Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Completes Plantation Drive, Plants over 3,000 Native Saplings at Kade Pathar, Jejuri
Jejuri, 17th October 2026: Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Limited (KFIL), one of India’s leading manufacturers of castings and pig iron and a key player in the steel and seamless tubes segment, completed a four-day tree plantation drive at the sacred site of Shri Kade Pathar, the original abode of Lord Khandoba, in Jejuri.
Conducted from October 14 to 17, 2026, the initiative involved the planting of over 3,000 native saplings across 11 varieties, including Bhokar, Avala and Chinch. The initiative reaffirmed the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship, biodiversity conservation and responsible growth.
Undertaken in collaboration with the Shri Khandoba Devata and Ling Kade Pathar Trust, the initiative formed part of a broader effort to develop dense green forest patches along the approximately three-kilometre walking route connecting Kade Pathar to the Jejuri Khandoba Temple, as well as along the steps leading to Kade Pathar. The planned green cover is expected to provide natural shade, enhance local biodiversity and create a more comfortable environment for pilgrims, visitors and the local community over time.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from KFIL employees, representatives of the Forest Department and approximately 60 students, teachers and staff members from Shri Nageshwar Vidyalaya, Nazare. Participants contributed through voluntary efforts towards tree plantation and conservation. The programme also included the inauguration of a drip irrigation initiative to support the maintenance and growth of the planted saplings.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Nishikant Ektare, Executive Director at Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Limited, said, “At Kirloskar Ferrous Industries, we believe sustainability goes beyond planting trees; it is about nurturing ecosystems that can thrive for generations. By prioritising native species, this initiative seeks to strengthen local biodiversity, support indigenous flora and fauna, and contribute to the ecological resilience of the region. We are pleased to have collaborated with local institutions and the community in creating a greener and more welcoming environment for pilgrims and visitors and residents of Kade Pathar.”
For KFIL, the initiative reflected its commitment to sustainability, community well-being and responsible growth through long-term environmental conservation in and around its Jejuri operations.
The initiative also received support from representatives of the Maharashtra State Forest Department, including Ms. Deepali Shinde and Mr. Dhananjay Devkar. Representatives of the temple trust, including trustees Mr. Mayur Didbhai, Mr. Rishikesh Satbhai and Mr. Sadanand Suresh Barbhai, were also present. Senior KFIL representatives associated with the initiative included P. M. Manojkumar, Chief Operational Officer; P. Sathyamurthy, Plant Head, Jejuri and Zakir Shaikh, Head – Human Resources.
