Kohima, Jan 17: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has extended his congratulations to Hokato Sema for being awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award for his exceptional performance in Para-Athletics. The award was presented to Sema by President Droupadi Murmu during a ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhawan on Friday.
In a post on social media platform X, CM Rio praised Sema’s dedication and achievements, stating, “Heartiest congratulations to Mr. H. Hokato Sema on receiving the prestigious #ArjunaAwards for Outstanding Performance in Sports and Games 2024, in Para-Athletics discipline. His dedication and achievements have inspired countless aspiring athletes.”
Sema, a Paralympic medallist, earned a bronze medal in the men’s shot put F57 event at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, achieving a personal best throw of 14.65 meters. His performance contributed to India’s historic Paralympic campaign, in which the country secured a record 29 medals, including seven golds, nine silvers, and 13 bronzes.
In addition to Sema, other distinguished athletes such as Manu Bhaker, Gukesh Dommaraju, Harmanpreet Singh, and Praveen Kumar were also honored with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award during the same ceremony.
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