Kohima: President Droupadi Murmu awarded Naib Subedar H Hokato Sema the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) on June 29. The ceremony took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026. Sema, a soldier with 9 Assam from Nagaland, earned this honor for distinguished service after losing a leg in a landmine blast.
The AVSM ranks as the second-highest peacetime service award for the Indian Armed Forces. It rarely goes to the rank and file. President Murmu handed out 105 total decorations, including Param Vishisht Seva Medals and Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals, to personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
Sema remains a standout athlete. He won bronze in shot put at the 2024 Paris Paralympics and the 2023 Asian Para Games. He also holds an Arjuna Award from 2024.
Nagaland officials praised the soldier's resilience. Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio called the award a "fitting recognition" of Sema's service and dedication. Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton also celebrated the achievement, noting that the soldier acts as an inspiring figure for the entire country.
Comments