In a landmark achievement for the Indian Armed Forces and para-sports, Subedar Hokato Hotozhe Sema from the 9 Assam Regiment was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) by President Droupadi Murmu at the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 (Phase-II) held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This accolade marks Subedar Sema as the first Paralympian in India’s history to receive this esteemed peacetime military decoration, which acknowledges distinguished service.
The award is especially significant as it highlights the contributions of a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), emphasizing Subedar Sema’s remarkable service to both the Indian Army and the sports community.
Hailing from the Niuland district in Nagaland, Subedar Sema enlisted in the Assam Regiment in 2000. His military career took a tragic turn in 2002 when he sustained life-altering injuries from a landmine explosion during a counter-infiltration operation along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the loss of one leg. However, his indomitable spirit led him toward para-sports, where he began training in shot put at the Army Paralympic Node in Pune under the guidance of coach Rakesh Rawat.
Sema’s dedication and relentless effort in para-athletics culminated in international success. He earned a bronze medal in the Men’s Shot Put F57 event at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, achieving a personal best of 14.65 meters. Additionally, he secured another bronze medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou.
In recognition of his sporting accomplishments, Subedar Sema was also the recipient of the Arjuna Award in 2024, further solidifying his status as an inspiring figure. His journey, transitioning from a severely injured soldier to a Paralympic medallist, has become a powerful symbol of courage, resilience, and determination.
The conferment of the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal not only recognizes Subedar Sema’s exemplary military service but also underscores his extraordinary achievements in para-athletics. His story serves as an inspiration to both soldiers and athletes across the nation, embodying the ethos of the Indian Army—courage, resilience, and excellence. Subedar Sema’s accomplishments illustrate that with determination and perseverance, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
