H Hokato Sema from Nagaland conferred Ati Vishisht Seva Medal

Dimapur, June 30 (MExN): Naib Subedar H Hokato Sema from Nagaland serving with 9 Assam, who lost a leg in a landmine blast, was on June 29 conferred the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) by President Droupadi Murmu for his distinguished service.

The honour was presented during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 (Phase-II) at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the President conferred 105 Distinguished Service Decorations on personnel of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard, an official statement said.

The AVSM is the second-highest peacetime distinguished service award in the Indian Armed Forces and is rarely conferred upon personnel from the rank and file.

Among others awarded the AVSM at the ceremony were Air Vice Marshal Satish Kumar Mathur (Retired), Air Vice Marshal Nand Kumar Nair (Retired), and Brigadier Pawan Dhull of the Army Medical Corps.

The decorations conferred during the ceremony comprised seven Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals, 30 Param Vishisht Seva Medals, 12 Uttam Yudh Seva Medals and 56 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, given for distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Sema had earlier also been conferred the Arjuna Award 2024 by President Murmu in recognition of his achievements in para-athletics. A shot put (F57 category) athlete, he won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games and another bronze at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China.

Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio and Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton congratulated Subedar H Hokato Sema on being conferred the AVSM.

In a social media post, Dr Rio termed the award a “fitting recognition” of Sema’s exceptional service, dedication, and commitment to duty. “Wishing him continued success and many more milestones in his distinguished journey,” the Chief Minister said.

Patton hailed the decorated soldier and para athlete as an “inspiring figure,” noting that Sema’s courage and determination have motivated countless Indians. “This well-deserved honour reflects his exceptional service and commitment to the nation,” Patton added.