Dear Shareholders,
Your directors take pleasure in presenting the Forty-Sixth Annual
Report and Company's Audited Financial Statements for the Year ended 31 March 2025 (FY
2025).
Summarised Financial Highlights:
(Rs in Crore)
Particulars |
Consolidated |
Standalone |
Year ended 31 March |
2025 |
2024 |
2025 |
2024 |
Revenue from operations |
4,648 |
4,209 |
4,322 |
3,971 |
Other Income |
94 |
85 |
120 |
116 |
Profit before Depreciation, Finance Costs and
Tax expense |
1,354 |
1,257 |
1,324 |
1,236 |
Profit after Tax |
920 |
816 |
917 |
807 |
Earnings Per Share (EPS) (Rs) (Basic) |
73.56 |
64.82 |
73.28 |
64.11 |
Company publishes limited review financial results on quarterly basis,
and audited financial results annually, both consolidated & standalone.
(
Performance Review
Performance for the year was excellent, with Branded Generic Business
growing at 15% and Consolidated Revenue from operations growing by 10% over the previous
year. Consolidated Profit After Tax also saw a growth of 11% compared to previous year.
Exports contributed 68% of the revenue.
Dividend
Board of Directors, at its meeting held on 28 October 2024, declared an
interim dividend of Rs28 per share. This dividend distribution was in line with the
Company's Dividend Distribution Policy, which is available on the Company's website and
can be accessed at Q https://ajantapharma.eom//images/ DividendPolicy.pdf. Details of
share buyback is given in following paragraph.
Subsidiaries, Associates and Joint > Ventures
The Company continues to have four overseas subsidiaries, and it does
not have any Associate company or a Joint Venture. Salient features of the Financial
Statements of subsidiaries are provided in the AOC-1 statement annexed herewith as
"Annexure A".
Audited Financial Statements of subsidiaries are available on Company's
website at Q www. ajantapharma.com and the same are also available for inspection at the
Registered Office of the Company during business hours as stipulated under Section 136 of
The Companies Act, 2013 (the "Act").
Material subsidiaries
Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. continues to be material subsidiary in
accordance with the provisions of The SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (The "Listing Regulations") read with the
Company's "Policy on Material Subsidiaries".
Share Capital
There was no change in authorised share capital of the Company during
the year under review.
Buy-back of shares
During the year, Company bought back 10,28,881 fully paid-up equity
shares of the face value of Rs 2/- each, representing 0.82% of the total number of equity
shares in the subscribed and paid- up equity share capital of the Company. The buyback was
from the existing shareholders of the Company on a proportionate basis, through
"Tender Offer" route, at a price of Rs 2,770/- per equity share. Total amount
spent on buyback was Rs 350 Crore consisting of Rs 285 Crore paid to shareholders and
buyback tax of Rs 65 Crore, which made the buyback in the hands of shareholders tax
exempt.
Post Buyback, the paid-up share capital stood reduced from 12,59,16,655
equity shares to 12,48,87,774 equity shares of Rs 2/- each. Post buyback shareholding
pattern is given in the Corporate Governance Report.
Share-Based Incentive Schemes
The Company has formulated and implemented Ajanta Pharma Share-Based
Incentive Plan 2019 ("SBIP 2019") which is administered by the Nomination and
Remuneration Committee ("NRC"). During FY 2025, no new options were granted, but
25,325 options granted earlier, got vested and equal number of shares were issued to
eligible employees.
Further, 13000 options granted to US subsidiary employees were
cancelled and in lieu thereof, the Board granted them 13,000 Cash Settled Stock
Appreciation Rights (SARs) at issue price of Rs 2 per share.
Disclosures pertaining to Employees' Stock Options Scheme are available
on the Company's website at g https://njnntnphnrmn.com/njnntn/lnvestors/ annual
results/Rsvear=2024-25.
M/s. Alwyn Jay & Co., Secretarial Auditors have certified that the
Scheme has been implemented in accordance with the SBIP Regulations and the resolution
passed by shareholders. The certificate will be available for inspection by members at the
ensuing Annual General Meeting ("AGM").
Credit Rating
During the year, Credit Analysis and Research Limited
("CARE") has upgraded the Company's long-term/ short-term bank facilities to
CARE AA+ and CARE A1+ indicating a stable outlook. This upgrade reflects the Company's
robust financial position, effective strategic execution, and positive future outlook,
thereby enhancing investor confidence.
Listing at Stock Exchanges
The Equity shares of the Company continue to be listed on the BSE
Limited and the NSE Limited.
The Board of Directors comprises accomplished professionals from
diverse fields, bringing a wide range of expertise, domain knowledge, and strategic
insight. The composition ensures a balanced mix of Executive and Independent Directors,
fostering sound decision-making through business acumen, professionalism, and independent
judgement. During the year, none of the Non-Executive Directors had any pecuniary
relationship or financial transactions with the Company, apart from receiving sitting fees
and commission for their roles.
Retirement by Rotation
Mr. Rajesh M. Agrawal is retiring by rotation at the ensuing AGM and
being eligible, has offered himself for re-appointment. The Board recommends his re-
appointment. A resolution seeking Shareholders' approval for his re-appointment along with
other required details, forms part of the Notice.
Independent Directors (IDs)
Completion of term
During the year, Mr. Chandrakant Khetan, Mr. K. H. Viswanathan, Mr.
Prabhakar Dalai and Dr. Anjana Grewal ceased to be Directors upon completion of their 2nd
consecutive term of 5 years on 17 July 2024. The Board places on record its sincere
appreciation and gratitude for their invaluable contributions and insightful counsel
during their tenure with the Company as ID's.
Appointment of new IDs
At the last AGM, members had approved appointments of Mr. David
Rasquinha (DIN: 01172654), Ms. Medha Joshi (DIN: 00328174), Mr. Rajesh Dalai (DIN:
03504969) and Ms. Simi Thapar (DIN: 10470498) as the IDs for a term of five consecutive
years with effect from 02 May 2024.
Consequent to the change in the Board of Directors, the Board
committees were also reconstituted, the details of which are provided in the Corporate
Governance Report.
All the new IDs have affirmed their continued compliance with the
independence criteria outlined in Section 149(6) of the Act and the Listing Regulations as
also adherence to the Code of Conduct for IDs. There has been no change in the
circumstances affecting their status as IDs of the Company.
The Board affirms that the newly appointed Independent Directors
possess diverse qualifications, skills, and extensive experience across a range of
domains. They uphold high standards of integrity and probity. A detailed matrix
highlighting the skills, expertise, and competencies of all Directors is presented in the
Corporate Governance Report.
Lead Independent Director
The Board has designated Mr. David Rasquinha (DIN: 01172654) as the
Lead Independent Director to provide focused leadership to the Independent Directors and
to ensure effective performance of the Board's oversight functions. The Lead Independent
Director serves as a liaison on behalf of Independent Directors and plays a pivotal role
in enhancing the Board's governance effectiveness.
fjPi Policies on Appointment and Remuneration of
Directors
The Company's "Policy for Determining Qualifications of
Directors" outlines guiding principles for the selection of individuals qualified to
be appointed as Directors, including Independent Directors.
The "Policy for Remuneration of Directors and Employees" sets
out parameters to ensure that the remuneration framework is structured to attract, retain
and motivate Directors, Key Managerial Personnel (KMP), and Senior Management personnel.
These policies are available on the Company's website and can be
accessed at:
gj https://njnntnphnrmn.eom//imnges/
PolicvfordeterminingqualificationsofDirector.pdf
Q https://ajantapharma.eom//images/
PolicvforRemunerationofDirectorsandEmplovees.pdf
A summary of these policies is included in the Report on Corporate
Governance.
^ Key Managerial Personnel
As on the date of this report, Mr. Yogesh M. Agrawal, Managing
Director; Mr. Rajesh M. Agrawal, Joint Managing Director; Mr. Arvind K. Agrawal, Chief
Financial Officer and Mr. Gaurang C. Shah, Company Secretary, continue
to be the KMPs of the Company.
Board and Directors' Evaluation
In accordance with the "Policy on Board Evaluation" and
aligned with best governance practices, the Board conducted a formal annual evaluation of
its own performance, that of its committees, and individual Directors. In a separate
meeting, the Independent Directors reviewed the performance of Non-Independent Directors,
the Board as a whole, and that of the Chairman. A consolidated feedback report was shared
with the Chairman for further deliberation with the Board and individual Directors.
Further details are presented in the Corporate Governance Report.
Board Meetings
The Board met four times during the year under review. In addition, a
separate meeting of the Independent Directors was convened in accordance with regulatory
requirements. Detailed disclosures relating to these meetings are available in the
Corporate Governance Report.
, Board Committees
The Board has constituted Audit Committee, Nomination and Remuneration
Committee, CSR & Sustainability Committee, Stakeholders' Relationship Committee, Risk
Management Committee and Executive Committee.
Corporate Governance Report contains comprehensive information
regarding composition of these committees, frequency of meetings and key activities
undertaken. The Board has accepted all recommendations of these committees without any
deviation.
Related Party Transactions
All Related Party Transactions ("RPTs") during the year were
carried out on an arm's length basis and in the ordinary course of business, in accordance
with the Company's Policy on Related Party Transactions. The Audit Committee provided
omnibus approval for certain repetitive transactions and reviewed RPTs on a quarterly
basis. There were no pecuniary transactions with Directors except sitting fees and
commission. There were no material related party transactions, which required reporting
under Form AOC-2. Details of RPTs are provided in Note No. 53 of the financial statements,
as per IND AS-24.
Corporate Social Responsibility
The Company continues to pursue impactful Corporate Social
Responsibility ("CSR") initiatives in line with its CSR Policy and long-term
sustainability goals. CSR activities during the year focused on key areas of education,
healthcare, rural development, community welfare and environmental sustainability. These
initiatives were implemented through eligible trusts and NGOs, as per the approved Annual
Action Plan.
The CSR & Sustainability Committee monitored project implementation
and expenditure to ensure alignment with defined objectives. The CFO has certified that
funds disbursed for CSR activities during FY 2025 were utilised as per Board approvals.
Details of the CSR Policy and activities undertaken along with the impact assessment
report done for applicable project are annexed as "Annexure B" to this Report.
CSR Spend exceeds the obligation
Focus on health, education & community
welfare
Management Discussion and " Analysis
In accordance with Regulation 34 of the Listing Regulations, detailed
MD&A report covering operational performance, industry trends, strategic initiatives,
risks and the Company's outlook forms part of this Annual Report.
Report on Corporate Governance
The Company remains committed to upholding the highest standards of
Corporate Governance. A comprehensive Corporate Governance Report, along with a
certificate from M/s. Alwyn D'Souza & Co., Practicing Company Secretaries, confirming
compliance with Listing Regulations, forms part of this Annual Report.
> Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report
In alignment with Regulation 34(2)(f) of the Listing Regulations and
SEBI guidelines, the Company has prepared Business Responsibility and Sustainability
Report ("BRSR"), highlighting its environmental, social, and governance (ESG)
initiatives for FY 2025. M/s. Vinay & Keshava LLP, Chartered Accountants, have issued
a reasonable assurance report on the BRSR.
Separate Sustainability Report outlining governance principles, ESG
efforts, R&D and future sustainability strategies shall be published and circulated.
Annual Return
Pursuant to Section 92(3) read with Section 134(3) (a) of the Act, the
Annual Return as on 31 March 2025 in Form MGT-7 is placed on the Company's website at Q
https://ajantapharma.eom//images/Draft-Form MGT 7 2024-2025.pdf.
Unclaimed Dividend/Shares
In pursuance of Regulation 39 read with Schedule VI of the Listing
Regulations, the details of shares lying in unclaimed suspense account and unclaimed
shares/dividend transferred to Investor Education and Protection Fund, are provided in the
Report on Corporate Governance.
Auditors and Audit Reports
Statutory Auditors
At the 43rd AGM held on 4 August 2022, members had
re-appointed M/s. B S R and Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (ICAI Registration No.
101248W/W- 100022), as Statutory Auditors for a second term of five years until the
conclusion of the 48th AGM in 2027.
Their Audit Report for FY 2025 is unmodified and does not contain any
gualifications, reservations, or adverse remarks. BSR has confirmed their eligibility and
peer review status under ICAI norms. During the year under review, the Auditors have not
reported any fraud or such matters as provided under Section 143(12) of the Companies Act.
Internal Auditors
M/s. Aneja Assurance Pvt. Ltd. continued to serve as Internal Auditors
for centralised functions. For other business locations such as factories and warehouses,
other gualified Chartered Accountant firms were engaged. Key audit findings and corrective
actions were reviewed by the Audit Committee. No material lapses or fraud were reported.
Secretarial Auditors, Audit Report,
Secretarial Compliance Certificate
M/s. Alwyn D'Souza & Co., Practicing Company Secretaries, conducted
the Secretarial Audit for FY 2024-25. Their report, annexed as "Annexure C,"
does not contain any adverse remarks. They also issued the Secretarial Compliance Report,
confirming adherence to statutory records and that no actions were initiated by SEBI or
stock exchanges. This report is uploaded on the BSE and NSE platforms as reguired.
As per SEBI Listing Regulations (Third Amendment), 2024, the Company is
reguired to appoint Secretarial Auditors for one term of five consecutive years. Based on
the Audit Committee's recommendation, the Board appointed M/s. D.G. Prajapati &
Associates, a firm led by Mr. D.G. Prajapati (FCS No. 6567, COP No. 4209) as the
Secretarial Auditor of the Company for a five-year term from the conclusion of- 46th
AGM to 51st AGM, subject to approval of shareholders in the ensuing AGM. The
proposal is included in the AGM Notice. M/s. D.G. Prajapati & Associates have
confirmed their independence, peer review status, and eligibility under the Act and
applicable regulations.
Cos t Auditors
In compliance with Section 148(1) of the Act, the Company maintains
cost records, audited by M/s. RA & Co., Practicing Cost Accountants. Their appointment
for FY 2026 was approved by the Board based on the Audit Committee's recommendation.
Member's ratification for their remuneration forms part of the AGM Notice.
During the year, no instances of fraud or irregularities were reported
by the Statutory, Internal, Secretarial or Cost Auditors.
Secretarial Standards
During FY 2025, the Company has complied with all the applicable
Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India as amended.
Internal Control System, Risk Management and
Compliance ? Framework
The Company has in place a robust and integrated Internal Control
System, a comprehensive Risk Management framework and robust Compliance protocols.
Internal control and its adequacy
Ajanta maintains an adeguate internal control system that is
commensurate with the scale, complexity, and nature of its operations. These controls are
structured to provide reasonable assurance with respect to:
1. Operational efficiency and effectiveness;
2. Prevention and timely detection of fraud and errors;
3. Safeguarding of tangible and intangible assets;
4. Adherence to applicable statutory and regulatory reguirements;
5. Accuracy and reliability of accounting records; and
6. Timely and accurate financial reporting.
Periodic reviews and internal audits are conducted to continuously
strengthen these mechanisms and drive business excellence.
The internal audit function operates through a dedicated team and is
also supported by external firms that undertake audits of critical functions and business
processes. The internal audit team reports functionally to the Chairperson of the Audit
Committee, ensuring complete independence and objectivity.
An annual internal audit plan is developed based on a well-defined
Audit universe that covers business risks, compliance matrices and process maturity. The
plan is approved by the Audit Committee at the beginning of each financial year. Key audit
observations, control lapses, and remedial actions taken are presented to the Audit
Committee on a guarterly basis. The Committee also engages in discussions with the
management and auditors to evaluate the overall internal control environment.
Threats, Risks and Concerns
Ajanta's Risk Management Policy is comprehensive and applies across all
operational and functional areas. The Risk Management Committee of the Board reviews and
deliberates on key risk updates.
During the year under review, the Company faced increased risk exposure
arising from escalating geopolitical tensions, complexities in the global supply chain,
elevated regulatory scrutiny at manufacturing sites, volatility in foreign exchange
markets and rising input costs.
Directors' Report
The Company has implemented adequate mitigation strategies aimed at:
? Ensuring business continuity amid uncertainties;
? Navigating growth challenges and market volatility;
? Enhancing cybersecurity and data protection mechanisms;
? Maintaining full compliance with applicable legal and regulatory
provisions; and
? Promoting excellence in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
practices.
Further details on the Risk Management Framework and key risks with
mitigation measures can be found on Page 46 of this Report.
Statutory Compliances
Ajanta has developed a well-structured framework to ensure statutory
and internal policy compliance across all business units. Functional departments are
responsible for embedding compliance controls into their day-to-day operations. These
obligations are further mapped into a compliance monitoring tool and are reviewed
periodically. Compliance owners affirm their responsibilities at defined intervals and
compliance reports are submitted to the Board for its review every quarter.
(Supply Chain
The supply chain plays a critical role in ensuring operational agility
and product availability. Ajanta's supply chain ensures efficient procurement of raw and
packing materials, streamlined production and timely distribution of high-quality
pharmaceutical products. In FY 2025, the Company focused on improving supply chain
efficiency, managing costs effectively and enhancing resilience against global supply
disruptions. Despite global challenges, including fluctuating healthcare demands and
logistic uncertainties, the Company maintained uninterrupted manufacturing and delivery
operations. Ajanta remains committed to fortifying its supply chain through innovation,
strategic partnerships and sustainable practices to ensure continuous supply of
life-saving medicines and create long-term value.
Vigil Mechanism/Whistle-Blower 1 Policy
To uphold ethical conduct and corporate integrity, the Company has
instituted a Whistle-Blower Policy & mechanism that enables stakeholders, employees
and Directors to report genuine concerns related to unethical practices, fraud or
violations of the Company's Code of Conduct. The mechanism ensures complete
confidentiality and provides protection against retaliation. The policy is readily
accessible on the Company's intranet and website- Q https://
ajantapharma.com//images/Whistle-Blower-Policv- Feb-2023.pdf. with the designated email
address for reporting genuine concerns being Q whistleblowerra njnntnphnrmn.com. It is
affirmed that during the year, no complaint was received under this policy.
L
Sexual Harassment of Women at ' Workplace
Ajanta provides a safe, inclusive and respectful work environment that
is free from discrimination, prejudice and sexual harassment. The Company has adopted a
comprehensive Policy for Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the Workplace, which ensures
protection, redressal and awareness for all employees, particularly women. To address
complaints, the Company has constituted Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) at all
locations with more than 10 women employees. Awareness and sensitisation programmes are
regularly conducted. It is affirmed that no complaints related to sexual harassment were
received during the year.
Code of Conduct
The Board of Directors have adopted a Code of Conduct applicable to all
Board members and senior management personnel. The Code is published on the Company's
website and an annual affirmation is obtained from all covered individuals.
Further, in line with the SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading)
Regulations, 2015, the Company has in place a comprehensive Insider Trading Code and Fair
Disclosure Policy. The Company uses the ESSCOM Portal and maintains a Structured Digital
Database to monitor and regulate the handling of unpublished price-sensitive information.
Details regarding these Codes are included in the Corporate Governance
Report.
3 Human Resource, Health & Safety
'The Company is committed to nurturing a culture of performance, growth
and inclusivity by recognising and developing its employees. As of 31 March 2025, the
Company had 9,628 permanent employees. Ajanta also places high importance on the health,
safety and well-being of its workforce. The Company's Environmental, Health and Safety
(EHS) systems are well-integrated and designed to uphold industry- leading safety
standards across all manufacturing units and offices.
Managerial Remuneration and Particulars of
Employees
Disclosures reguired under Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and
Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 are annexed to this Report as
"Annexure D". Information under Rule 5(2) and 5(3) of the said Rules forms part
of this Report but is not being sent to members due to its confidential nature. Any
shareholder interested in obtaining this information may reguest a copy by writing to the
Company Secretary at the registered office.
Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption,
Foreign Exchange Earnings & Outgo
Pursuant to Section 134 of the Act read with Companies (Accounts)
Rules, 2014, particulars relating to conservation of energy, technology absorption,
foreign exchange earnings and outgo, are disclosed in "Annexure E".
Loans, Guarantees & Investments
Pursuant to Section 134(3)(g) of the Act, details of loans, guarantees
and investments are disclosed in Notes to Financial Statements.
Other Disclosures
During the year under review:
1. No amount was proposed to be transferred to reserves.
2. There was no change in the nature of the business of the Company.
3. No agreement was entered into reguiring disclosure under Regulation
30A of Listing Regulations.
4. Eguity shares were issued pursuant to the Stock Option Scheme and no
default occurred in implementing corporate actions.
5. Company has not accepted any deposits under Sections 73 and 74 of
the Act.
6. There was no provision made for purchase of its own shares by
employees.
7. Company's securities were not suspended at any time.
8. No remuneration/commission was received by MD/WTD from subsidiaries.
9. Company has not issued shares with differential voting rights or
sweat eguity shares.
10. There are no defaults in loan payments or any instance of one-time
settlement.
11. No significant or material orders were passed by regulators or
courts affecting the Company's going concern status.
12. No material changes or commitments occurred after the balance sheet
date that affect the Company's financial position.
13. There were no proceedings under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code,
2016.
Directors' Responsibility Statement
The financial statements are prepared in accordance with the Indian
Accounting Standards (Ind AS) under the historical cost convention on accrual basis except
for certain financial instruments, which are measured at fair values, the provisions of
the Companies Act, 2013 (to the extent notified) and guidelines issued by SEBI.
To the best of their knowledge and belief and according to the
information and explanations obtained by them and pursuant to Section 134 of the Act
(including any statutory modification(s) and/or re-enactment(s) thereof for the time being
in force), your Directors confirm:
a) that in the preparation of the annual accounts for the year ended 31
March 2025, the applicable Accounting Standards have been followed along with proper
explanation relating to material departures, if any;
b) that they had selected accounting policies and applied them
consistently and made judgements and estimates that were reasonable and prudent so as to
give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company at the end of the
financial year ended 31 March 2025 and of the profit of the Company for the period;
c) that proper and sufficient care has been taken for the maintenance
of adequate accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Act for
safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other
irregularities;
d) that the annual accounts/financial statements have been prepared on
a going concern basis;
e) that proper internal financial controls were in place and that the
financial controls were adequate and were operating effectively;
f) that they had devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the
provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating
effectively.
Green Initiative
In support of the Green Initiative of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs
and the Company's commitment towards environmental sustainability, Ajanta encourages
shareholders to receive communications such as the Annual Report, AGM Notice and other
documents in electronic form. We urge all shareholders to register their e-mail addresses
with their Depository Participants or Registrar and Share Transfer Agent to enable the
Company to serve documents electronically. This not only promotes paperless communication
but also contributes significantly to environmental conservation. Let us collectively
contribute to a greener planet by opting for digital communications.
Gratitude & Acknowledgements
Your directors place on record sincere appreciation for the
contribution made by every Ajantaite during the year under review. Company's consistent
growth was made possible by their hard work, solidarity, cooperation and dedication. The
Directors also wish to express their gratitude to the Investors for the confidence and
faith that they continued to repose in the Company. Board takes this opportunity to thank
all shareholders, analysts, business partners, government and regulatory authorities,
financial institutions, banks, distributors, suppliers, business associates, medical
professionals and customers for their continued guidance, encouragement and splendid
support.
For and on Behalf of the Board of Directors |
|
|
Mannalal B. Agrawal |
|
Chairman |
Mumbai, 30 April, 2025 |
DIN: 00073828 |