Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF), in partnership with the Indian Army, has been formally lauded by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, for its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability. The recognition comes in light of DPIFF’s large-scale Tree Plantation Drive held on June 2nd, 2025, at the Pokhran Firing Range in Thane under its flagship “Go Green” initiative.

As part of this landmark effort, DPIFF aims to plant 10,000 trees across ecologically and strategically significant locations in Maharashtra, reinforcing its longstanding dedication to climate resilience and national service. The initiative, supported by the Indian Army, reflects a powerful alignment between the country’s cultural and defence sectors in advancing environmental stewardship.

In an official statement, Chief Minister Fadnavis praised the campaign as “a shining example of environmental commitment and civic responsibility by one of India’s leading cultural institutions.” He also acknowledged DPIFF’s broader contributions to nation-building through arts, sustainability, and public welfare initiatives.

Echoing these sentiments, Smt. Pankaja Gopinath Munde, Hon’ble Minister of Environment & Climate Change, Animal Husbandry, Government of Maharashtra and National Secretary of the BJP, extended her warm appreciation for DPIFF’s efforts. She described the initiative as “visionary and deeply rooted in public welfare,” noting its unique ability to merge cinematic influence with environmental awareness.

The Pokhran plantation drive marks a significant milestone in DPIFF’s ongoing “Go Green” campaign, which has consistently advocated for afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and climate action. The involvement of the Indian Army underscores the collaborative spirit that underpins this mission—where cultural influence meets national duty to protect the planet for future generations.

Anil Mishra, Founder & Managing Director of DPIFF, expressed heartfelt gratitude and reaffirmed the festival’s environmental vision:
“At DPIFF, we believe that true progress must include environmental responsibility. Through the Go Green Initiative and this Tree Plantation Drive, we are taking meaningful steps toward a more conscious society. We are especially grateful for the support and blessings of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, which strengthen our resolve to carry forward impactful CSR activities rooted in our cultural and ecological values.”

Abhishek Mishra, CEO of DPIFF, also shared his thoughts at the event:
“We are honoured by the encouragement extended by the Hon’ble Chief Minister and Pankaja Ji. At DPIFF, we see cinema as more than entertainment—it is a platform for awareness, action, and meaningful change. Our environmental work is a natural extension of our cultural mission to preserve and promote India’s heritage.”

Beyond its global reputation for celebrating excellence in Indian cinema, DPIFF has consistently emerged as a catalyst for positive social transformation. As the only independent international film festival in India named after the legendary Shri Dadasaheb Phalke Ji, the festival continues to honour his legacy through purposeful action.

DPIFF’s impact spans across various domains—education, healthcare, women empowerment, and sustainability—seamlessly integrating social responsibility with cultural celebration. The ongoing Tree Plantation Drive is yet another testament to its commitment, standing as a living tribute to nature, national pride, and the spirit of unity.

For more updates and press coverage, visit: https://dpiff.in/press/