INDIAN ARMY REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO NURTURING SPORTS TALENT AS COUNTRY BUILDS ON GLOBAL GROUND-BREAKING ACHIEVEMENTS

New Delhi, India - January 3: As the nation continues to make waves in the global sporting arena with unprecedented success, the Indian Army on Friday reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing talent in sports, expressing pride and gratitude towards individuals who have secured prestigious awards.

In a heartfelt post on X, the Army congratulated Subedar Hokato H Sema, a bronze medallist at the Paris Paralympics 2024, for his outstanding achievement, highlighting his remarkable journey that led him to stand on the podium at one of the world's most esteemed competitions. The Army also paid tribute to Simran, the wife of Naik Gajendra Singh, who has secured a place among the Arjuna Awardees alongside other celebrated sportspersons in the country.

Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker and chess world champion D Gukesh were named among the winners of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award announced earlier this week by the Sports Ministry. The list also features an impressive 17 para-athletes who have won recognition for their exceptional successes at the Paris Paralympics.

According to the Indian Army, Subedar Hokato H Sema has achieved remarkable success with a Bronze medal at the Paris Paralympics 2024 in Sitting Shotput (F-57 category). The athlete had also secured bronze medals at the Para Asian Games 2022 and boasts three Para national silver medals. Furthermore, Simran won the bronze medal in the women’s 200m (T-12 category) at the same event and finished fourth in the women's 100m (T-12). Her achievements have earned her a World Para Championship Gold Medal in the same category, along with successful international performances in other events.

The Indian Army hailed Subedar Hokato H Sema and Simran as champions of perseverance and dedication who have brought laurels to the nation. Their remarkable achievements have not only inspired numerous individuals but also exemplified the resilience and determination that define India's sporting culture.

As per a press statement released by the Sports Ministry, the Arjuna award winners will receive their awards from the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17 this year.