Advisor for Social Welfare Wangpang Konyak and State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) Diethono Nakhro have congratulated Hokato Hotozhe Sema for his remarkable achievement in securing a bronze medal in the F57 Shotput event at the Paris Paralympics 2024.
Highlighting the significance of this achievement, noting that Hokato is the first Naga to win a Paralympics medal for India, Wanpang hailed the historic achievement as a monumental moment for both Nagaland and India.
“This victory not only brings immense pride to his family and community but also serves as an inspiration for countless others, particularly persons with disabilities (PwDs), proving that with grit and support, any barrier can be overcome,” he added.
“Mr. Hokato’s journey to the Paralympics podium is a testament to his indomitable spirit, resilience, and dedication,” he stated, emphasizing how the athlete’s perseverance in overcoming challenges resonates with the core values of the Nagas– perseverance, courage, and the pursuit of excellence.
SCPD: State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) has termed the historic bronze medal by Hokato Hotozhe Sema was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unyielding spirit, representing a proud moment for India and Nagaland.
The commission said Hokato’s accomplishment had set a new benchmark for athletes across the nation, particularly for young disabled sportspersons, who now saw him as a shining role model.
SCPD noted that the state government announcement of cash reward of Rs 1.5 crore for Hokato was a commendable gesture highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting excellence in sports, especially within the disability community.
SCPD said such support not only boosted the morale of individual athletes but also sent a powerful message about the value of inclusion in sports.
According to SCPD, Hokato’s ground breaking victory also underscored the immense talent and potential of young disabled athletes in Nagaland.
SCPD stressed that it was important to highlight that Hokato was the first athlete from the state to win a medal at such a prestigious international sporting event, making it even more significant that Nagaland’s first-ever medal at this premier level had been earned by a para-athlete.
As the state celebrated this historic win, SCPD emphasised that it was vital to recognise the urgent need for more initiatives to promote and support disability sports.
By investing in infrastructure, training facilities, and funding for para-athletes, SCPD said Nagaland could cultivate many more world-class competitors who could reach the pinnacle of international competition, just as Hokato had.
“Let this moment serve as a call to action for greater inclusivity and representation in sports, as well as a celebration of Hokato Hotozhe Sema’s milestone achievement on the world stage”, he exhorted.
SCPD said the future of disability sports was bright and, with the right support, Nagaland would become a powerhouse in producing top para-athletes in the years to come.