After losing his left leg to a landmine blast during a counterterror operation in Jammu and Kashmir in 2002, Havaldar Hokato Hotozhe Sema made a triumphant return to the spotlight by winning a bronze medal in the men’s F57 shot put at the Paris Paralympics on Friday.
The 40-year-old from Dimapur achieved a career-best throw of 14.65 meters at the Stade de France, securing a podium finish in a category that includes athletes with limb deficiencies, leg length differences, and impaired muscle power. Para shot-putters in the F57 category rely heavily on upper body strength due to their physical conditions.
Background and Journey
Sema, who is from a farmer’s family in Nagaland and was the only athlete from the state in the Indian contingent, joined the army with dreams of becoming an elite special forces commando. His aspirations were disrupted by a landmine blast in 2002 that led to the amputation of his left leg.
Despite the significant physical and mental challenges, Sema found new hope through the Army’s Para Sports Node, which encouraged him to pursue shot put. Starting the sport in 2016, he made his Nationals debut that year and has since earned accolades, including a silver at the Morocco Grand Prix in 2022 and a bronze at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou.
Recognition and Rewards
Following his Paralympics success, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio announced a reward of Rs. 1.5 crore for Sema. On social media, Rio praised Sema’s achievement, noting that he is the first Olympic medalist from Nagaland.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Sema, highlighting his strength and determination. Modi’s message acknowledged Sema’s exceptional performance and extended best wishes for his future endeavors.
Top Performers in the F57 Shot Put
Iran’s Yasin Khosravi won gold with a Paralympic record throw of 15.96 meters, while Brazil’s Thiago Paulino dos Santos secured silver with a throw of 15.06 meters. Sema, with his bronze-winning throw, overcame stiff competition to achieve his best result on the fourth attempt, surpassing his previous personal best of 14.49 meters.
Other Indian Performance
Rana Soman, another Indian competitor and silver medalist at the Hangzhou Para Games, finished fifth with a throw of 14.07 meters.
