Dear Member(s),
The Board of Directors of your Company take pleasure in presenting the Twenty Ninth (29th)
Annual Report on the business and operations of Info Edge (India) Limited (the 'Company')
together with the Audited Standalone & Consolidated Financial Statements and the
Auditor's Report thereon for the financial year ended March 31, 2024.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The results of operations for the year under review are given below:
(Rs. Mn)
S.No Particulars |
Standalone |
Consolidated |
|
FY24 |
FY23 |
FY24 |
FY23 |
1. Net Revenue |
23,809.58 |
21,586.19 |
25,363.40 |
23,456.91 |
2. Other Income |
2,591.80 |
1,750.94 |
4,137.35 |
3,928.53 |
3. Total Income (1+2) |
26,401.38 |
23,337.13 |
29,500.75 |
27,385.44 |
Expenditure: |
|
|
|
|
a) Network and other direct Charges |
496.04 |
450.97 |
747.07 |
633.67 |
b) Employees Cost |
9,820.90 |
9,087.10 |
11,282.37 |
10,973.05 |
c) Advertising and Promotion Cost |
2,743.95 |
3,155.39 |
3,424.58 |
4,082.09 |
d) Depreciation/Amortization |
677.38 |
447.41 |
1,011.25 |
730.15 |
e) Administration & other Expenditure |
1,196.08 |
1,050.58 |
1,616.95 |
2,084.35 |
f) Finance Cost |
163.11 |
38.89 |
222.60 |
73.35 |
4. Total expenditure |
15,097.46 |
14,230.34 |
18,304.82 |
18,576.66 |
5. Share of Profit/(Loss) of Joint Ventures |
- |
- |
(1,309.82) |
(2,310.14) |
6. Operating PBT (1-4+5) |
8,712.12 |
7,355.85 |
5,748.76 |
2,570.11 |
7. Profit before tax and exceptional items (3-4+5) |
11,303.92 |
9,106.79 |
9,886.11 |
6,498.64 |
8. Exceptional Item-(loss) |
(171.44) |
(2,947.45) |
(1,105.78) |
(5,092.52) |
9. Net Profit before tax (7+8) |
11,132.48 |
6,159.34 |
8,780.33 |
1,406.12 |
10. Tax Expense |
2,801.66 |
2,047.41 |
2,834.80 |
2,110.71 |
11. Net Profit after tax (9-10) |
8,330.82 |
4,111.93 |
5,945.53 |
(704.59) |
12. Share of Minority interest in the losses of Subsidiary Companies |
- |
- |
(195.29) |
(372.84) |
13. Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) (including share of profit/ (loss)
of Joint Ventures - Net of Tax) |
139,180.71 |
(33,434.00) |
163,900.70 |
(36,151.74) |
14. Total Comprehensive Income/(Loss) (11+12+13) |
147,511.53 |
(29,322.07) |
169,650.94 |
(37,229.17) |
1. FINANCIAL REVIEW
STANDALONE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The annual Audited Standalone Financial Statements for the financial year ended March
31, 2024 have been prepared in accordance with the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards)
Rules, 2015 (Ind-AS) prescribed under Section 133 of the Companies Act, 2013 (the 'Act')
and other recognized accounting practices and policies to the extent applicable.
Your Company derives its revenue from recruitment, real estate, matrimonial and
education classifieds & related services and other income.
Your Company has been one of India's leading digital companies that services different
economic domains through its specialised online offerings. It's strong legacy of
pioneering digital penetration in the country is well established over the last two
decades. In this phase of growth, the Company believes that the effective deployment of
technology will be the key to success. Artificial Intelligence (AI), is in broad terms
computer software that engages in human like activities, including learning, planning and
problem-solving. Effective deployment of AI, especially Machine Learning (ML) is becoming
pervasive across all networked businesses of of the Company. These tools are increasingly
being used across the different business' value chain - from product design and
development to customer interfacing and solution generation. The Company has been
investing into these tools and is focused on building strong competitive positioning by
continuously deploying these tools effectively.
There was considerable uncertainty across the global economy in FY24. However, India
stood out and was one of the world's fastest growing economies of its size. So, across the
Company's business portfolio, ventures prospered that were primarily focused on domestic
markets, while some segments that have direct or indirect exposure to global economic
conditions faced some headwinds. In this market environment, across its different
businesses, the Company remained focused on executing their respective mid-term growth
strategies that have been developed over the last few years.
Over the last couple of years, the Company has effectively structured its businesses
under specific organisational domains that are in line with its next round of growth
objectives. From a strategic perspective, the business has two specific portfolios - an
operational business and an investment business. The operational business primarily
comprises the core business verticals, namely recruitment, real estate, matrimonial and
education. While each of these businesses have attained market leadership, they are in
different stages of their maturity and development cycle in line with the domain where
they operate. Today, there is much greater digitisation across these domains with
deployment of more sophisticated technology tools. Market potential have grown, and
competition is fierce. This has warranted the development and adoption of revised
strategic plans, which also warrants investments. As the markets have grown within each
domain, today there is also concerted efforts to enlarge the bouquet of services and
create greater revenue streams, while continuously striving to maintain market leadership.
After maintaining adequate financial prudence, the Company continue to invest in new
businesses in the online space with a mid to long term objective of getting returns from
value creation. This includes investments in independently managed businesses where the
management often has an equity stake.
In the core business, recruitments, while the strong growth momentum witnessed in the
last few years moderated, the financial performance on a standalone basis remained strong.
Importantly, for the developing business portfolio constituting 99acres, Jeevansathi and
Shiksha, revenues continued to grow by an impressive 20.18%, while losses in terms of
operating PBT and cash burn from operations reduced by 43.38% and 75.21% respectively.
Across these businesses, in a very competitive environment, in FY24 the Company continued
to deliver on the facets that contribute to long term steady growth, enhancing its
potential for increased value creation. The investment portfolio remained strong with good
growth in market capitalisation of the two entities - Zomato Limited (Zomato) and PB
Fintech Limited (Policybazaar)- during FY24 resulting in strong value appreciation of the
Company's investments in them.
The revenue from operations for FY24 was up by 10.30% to Rs.23,809.58 Million from
Rs.21,586.19 Million for the FY23.
The total income of the Company stood at Rs.26,401.38 Million up by 13.13% for FY24
from Rs.23,337.13 Million for FY23. The other income of the Company contributed
Rs.2,591.80 Million to the total income for FY24.
The total expenses for the year stood at Rs.15,097.46 Million up by 6.09% for the FY24
from Rs.14,230.34 Million for the FY23.
Operating PBT, for the year, was up by 18.44% over previous year and stood at
Rs.8,712.12 Million in comparison with Rs.7,355.85 Million in FY23. Profit before tax
(PBT) from ordinary activities (before exceptional items) is Rs.11,303.92 Million in FY24
as against Rs.9,106.79 Million in FY23.
DIVIDEND
Your Company has been maintaining a consistent & impressive track record of
dividend payments for past many years, in line with its approved Dividend Distribution
Policy. The said Policy is available on the Company's website at
https://www.infoedge.in/pdfs/ Dividend-Policy.pdf
For the year under review, the Board of Directors of the Company had declared an
Interim Dividend as per following details:
Type of Dividend |
Date of Declaration |
Record Date |
Rate of Dividend per share (face value Rs.10/- per share) |
% |
Total Payout (Rs. Mn) |
Interim Dividend |
November 7, 2023 |
November 17, 2023 |
Rs.10/- |
100 |
1,293.84 |
Further, the Board of Directors in its meeting held on May 16, 2024 have recommended
payment of Final Dividend at the rate of Rs.12/- per share for FY24. However, the payment
of Final Dividend is subject to the approval of the shareholders at the ensuing Annual
General Meeting of the Company to be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. The record date
for the purpose of the payment of Final Dividend is July 29, 2024 and the same will be
paid on or after September 5, 2024.
Pursuant to the amendments introduced in the Income Tax Act, 1961 vide Finance Act,
2020, w.e.f. April 1, 2020, Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) which used to be payable by
the Company has been abolished, and instead, the concerned shareholder is liable to pay
tax on his dividend income. The Company is thus required to comply with the provisions
relating to tax deduction at source (TDS) under the Income Tax Act, 1961 in respect of
dividend paid by it on or after such date.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
The Company does not propose to transfer any amount to the general reserve.
SHARE CAPITAL
During the year under review, the Company issued and allotted 200,000 equity shares on
October 6, 2023 at an issue price of Rs.10/- each to Info Edge Employees Stock Option Plan
Trust. Pursuant to the above allotment, the issued & paid up share capital of the
Company increased to & stood, as on March 31, 2024, at Rs.1,293,841,200 divided into
129,384,120 equity shares of Rs.10/- each.
The fresh shares allotted as aforesaid have been duly listed on the Stock Exchanges.
The Company has not issued any shares with differential voting rights or sweat equity
shares during FY24.
LISTING OF SHARES
The Company's shares are listed on BSE Ltd. (BSE) & National Stock Exchange of
India Ltd. (NSE) with effect from November 21, 2006, post its initial public offering
(IPO). The annual listing fees for the FY24 to BSE and NSE has been paid.
DEPOSITS
During the year under review, your Company has not invited or accepted any Deposits
from the public/ members pursuant to the provisions of Sections 73 and 76 of the Act read
together with the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014.
2. OPERATIONS REVIEW
The Company is primarily in the business of operating multiple internet based services
through its various web portals and mobile applications. It currently operates in four
service verticals - in recruitment solutions through its brands Naukri, iimjobs, Hirist,
AmbitionBox, Bigshyft, JobHai, NaukriGulf, Quadrangle; in real estate services through its
brand 99acres; in matrimonial services through its brand Jeevansathi and in education
services through its brand Shiksha. The Board of Directors of the Company examines the
Company's performance both from a business & geographical perspective and has
accordingly identified its business segments as the primary segments to monitor their
respective performance on regular basis and therefore the same have been considered as
reportable segments under Ind- AS 108 on Segment Reporting. The reportable segments
represent 'Recruitment Solutions', '99acres for real estate' and the 'Others' segment. The
'Others' segment comprises Jeevansathi and Shiksha service verticals since they
individually do not meet the qualifying criteria for reportable segment as per the said
Accounting Standard.
RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS
The recruitment vertical, under the flagship brand - Naukri is the Company's core
business. It is well established and generates strong revenues and cash, which drives
investments for the next round of growth across the complete business portfolio. Naukri
has strong market dominance and caters to a wide user base. Today, India is undergoing a
generational transition, with people becoming more tech savvy. In this backdrop, Naukri is
focused on further strengthening its market positioning by modernising its brand image and
taking its offering to the next level of customer interfacing by deploying various new
technology and AI based tools. There is also an endeavour to reach out to a wider industry
segment and customer base that is spread across the next tier of cities and towns in the
country. In essence, the business is transforming in line with fast changing market
dynamics while still focused on its core objective of profitable business growth.
Naukri, is being rapidly supported by a growing bouquet of offerings within the
recruitment space. The core associate brands including NaukriGulf, iimjobs, Hirist, Naukri
Campus and JobHai continued to grow well.
As is evident with the market slowdown, especially in the IT recruitment front,
especially from the second half of FY23, there has been a slowdown in growth for the
recruitment business. This slowdown in topline growth is reflected in the vertical's
financial performance for the FY24. Profitability parameters were also affected as topline
growth was not in sync with existing fixed costs. It is important to note, that given the
market conditions, the strong growth momentum of the last two years has been considerably
curtailed in FY24. However, on a standalone basis the billings, revenues, operating
margins and cash generation from the recruitment portfolio, continued to be strong and
healthy.
Fundamentally, for the suite of offering under Naukri, the emphasis is on transforming
the offering from India's leading hiring site to a holistic career acquisition platform.
This includes effective deployment of technology tools and embracing AI and data-powered
automation. Further, there are the set of initiatives that are being implemented to
transition from a job search site to a comprehensive career platform for jobseekers. It is
also being endeavoured to offer a bouquet of new age technology based recruitment
solutions that essentially evolves into an effective one stop shop for all hiring needs.
By effectively leveraging the complete bouquet of brands, the Company is continuously
taking steps to emerge as even more strong leader across the online recruitment space.
In FY24, the Company continued to leverage the investments made in the recruitment
tools based businesses. Zwayam Digital Pvt. Ltd. (Zwayam) and Axilly Labs Pvt. Ltd.
(DoSelect).
Further, during the previous year, the Company had made further investment in Sunrise
Mentors Pvt. Ltd. (Coding Ninjas) which is engaged in the business of education and
operation of an e-learning platform - Coding Ninjas. In FY24, Coding Ninjas' integration
with the naukri platform was completed and now, code studio is live on the comprehensive
Naukri 360 offering.
During the year under review, revenue from recruitment solutions segment was up by
7.48% from Rs.16,795.86 Million in FY23 to Rs.18,052.66 Million in FY24. Operating Profit
before tax in recruitment solutions in FY24 was Rs.10,508.71 Million as compared to
Rs.10,059.56 Million in FY23.
99ACRES
99acres derives its revenues from projects including listings, featured listings, email
campaigns and banner advertisements; resale of properties including listings, featured
listings and featured dealers showcase; and rental properties including listings, featured
listings and features dealers showcase. Structurally, in line with market dynamics, the
business is segregated into four different categories - new projects, resale, rental and
commercial. In FY24, there was healthy growth in enquiries to sellers especially in new
projects, resale and commercial segments. The growth was driven primarily by the efforts
undertaken in improving platform experience and stepping up investments in client
delivery.
The initiative undertaken in FY23 to enhance the overall platform experience and
synchronise the offering with the fast-changing customer expectations continued through
FY24. As part of the secondary premiumisation strategy, the infinity (video) listings
product was launched in December 2023. This witnessed a decent initial market offtake.
Considering the strong market competitive environment, the business continued to stress
on digital marketing spends to maintain competitive edge. Concrete efforts were made to
improve the efficiency of such investments with the effective deployment of analytics.
This was further supported by focused efforts on creative and audience optimisation.
A major new initiative is a focus on 'new launch' solutions, that specifically catered
to the needs of developers initiating such projects. The site is also being regularly
enhanced through more decision-making tools and content including video content for new
projects and secondary sales, methods of making informed online comparisons, and focusing
on re-engaging buyers. A new value based pricing mechanism for new projects and secondary
projects is being developed. Finally, in a focused manner expansion is being done to
increase city coverage and specifically have more presence in Tier-II and Tier-III towns.
The business has the pillar in place to generate good growth in FY25. The market will
continue to be competitive, and the growth path will involve several enroute corrections.
During the year under review, real estate business was up by 23.47% from Rs.2,845.06
Million in FY23 to Rs.3,512.80 Million in FY24. Operating loss before tax in real estate
business in FY24 was reduced to Rs.688.48 Million as compared to Rs.1,185.01 Million in
FY23.
OTHERS
Your Company also provides matrimonial/matchmaking and education-based classifieds and
related services through its portals Jeevansathi and Shiksha respectively.
From a strategic perspective, the Company is extending its activities in matrimonial
domain from online 'matrimonial' to online 'matchmaking'. Essentially, given the changing
fabric of the Indian society, the Company believes there are opportunities to extend the
brand and the business from the traditional marriage related matchmaking to ones related
to other types of relationships and dating. Within this space, the online matrimony market
remains the dominant space for Jeevansathi. It is one of the leading and most trusted
matrimony websites in India. It offers a platform for free listing, searching and
expressing interest for marriage and its revenues are generated from payments to get
contact information and certain value-added services. Initiating conversation with other
users through various means on the platform requires users to buy subscriptions for
certain pre-defined durations. Some subscription plans also offer higher visibility on the
platforms and assisted services. Almost the entire revenue of Jeevansathi is generated
from subscriptions which includes first time and renewing user payments.
During FY24 Jeevansathi continued to focus on building its strength in its core markets
in North India. Its business has also been enabled by much faster than expected internet
absorption across India, especially in the North India. The business continued to focus on
leveraging its strong analytics and understanding of markets in Tier-II and Tier-III
cities to penetrate markets deeper. The growth objectives are primarily being driven by
deployment of technology. This is applicable for the stress on enhancing the user
experience on the site and generating high sales productivity by executing strong
tech-driven sales processes.
Product deployment continues to be innovation led. The first phase 'free chat' remains
an exclusive offering whose interface continues to get upgraded to sustain customer
interest. The value proposition is enhanced significantly by deployment of a sophisticated
recommendation engine that provides solutions by leveraging the information from daily
interactions on the platform stored in its background database.
There is considerable stress on providing superior customer experience. This includes
provision of video profiles, video/audio calling and online video-based match-hour events.
The security factor of the web application is being enhanced through an online ID based
verification system. Importantly, one has already seen that around 90% of traffic and time
spent is from 'apps', which indicates higher user stickiness and a more active user base.
To reach out to the pre-matrimonial dating space, the Company had added Aisle to its
matchmaking portfolio in FY23, which runs multiple dating platforms on the web and mobile
apps-Aisle, Anbe, Arike, Neetho, Neene, and Jalebi which allow users to browse through
profiles of other users with the intent of finding their suitable partner. This app-based
dating and matchmaking platform connects South Asians and Indians around the world to find
the right soulmate for a relationship prior to getting married. This has further
strengthened the offerings in the wider matchmaking space.
In the matchmaking space, the Company's focus is on the matrimonial business
Jeevansathi. Here, the focus is on continuing with growing the customer base at a rapid
pace using the 'chat for free' approach, but by minimizing ad-spends. Marketing activities
are increasingly shifting to collaborations and support from alternate players like online
influencers. A lot of emphasis is being laid on reaching out to prospective customers
through 'word of mouth' and significantly growing the customer base with minimized
customer acquisition cost.
However, enhancing user experience is another prerogative. This is being driven by
focusing on improving the recommendations that are provided to users and making them more
relevant. This is being driven by improving the AI/ML models being deployed for this
purpose.
Further, within the online education classifieds space, the Company provides
educational classifieds and related services through its website www.shiksha.com.
The core offering - Shiksha - has over the last couple of years adopted a restructured
strategic roadmap and essentially evolved from merely being a course providers'
information site to a more composite platform guiding a student through higher education
and essentially playing a critical role for college and course selection for every
individual student. It provides comprehensive information on careers, exams, colleges, and
courses that is the basis for effective student counselling, helping them decide their
undergraduate and post graduate options. It also has a specific offering catering to
overseas admissions. With this composite offering, it has emerged as India's largest
higher education classified platform with strong following amongst its key stakeholder
communities - students and colleges. From the service providers perspective, there are
1,335 unique clients and over 64,100 colleges on the platform, with around 479,500 course
listings and a little over 900 entrance exams being specified. Across all aspects, the
business is now constantly working on upgrading itself with a focus on enhancing client
delivery with emphasis on having quality content, which will drive traffic acquisition.
With revenues from these other verticals increasing by 15.36%, their combined
contribution to the Company's revenue was 9.43% in FY24. Jeevansathi grew by 9.82% and
Shiksha grew by 19.05%.
Detailed analysis of the performance of the Company and its respective business
segments has been presented in the section on Management Discussion and Analysis Report
forming part of this Annual Report.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT
The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with the Ind-AS
prescribed under Section 133 of the Act and other recognized accounting practices and
policies to the extent applicable.
The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared on the basis of the audited
financial statements of the Company, its subsidiaries, controlled trusts and
associate/jointly controlled companies, as approved by their respective Board of
Directors/Trustees, as applicable, except for the companies in respect of which investment
has been fully impaired. However, for the purpose of consolidation of financial statements
of the Company as regards the investment in Happily Unmarried Marketing Pvt. Ltd.,
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd., Medcords Healthcare Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and
Printo Document Services Pvt. Ltd. unaudited financial statements have been considered.
Your Company, on a consolidated basis, achieved net revenue of Rs.25,363.40 Million
during the year under review as against Rs.23,456.91 Million during the previous financial
year, up by 8.13% year on year. The total consolidated income for the year is Rs.29,500.75
Million as compared to Rs.27,385.44 Million in FY23.
Operating PBT, on a consolidated basis, for the year, stood at Rs.5,748.76 Million in
comparison with Rs.2,570.11 Million in FY23. Total comprehensive Income, in FY24, is
reported to be Rs.169,650.94 Million in comparison to total comprehensive losses of
Rs.37,229.17 Million in FY23.
DETAILS OF SUBSIDIARIES/JOINT VENTURE (ASSOCIATE) COMPANIES
As on March 31,2024, the Company had 16 subsidiaries. During the year under review and
the period between the end of the financial year and the date of this report following
changes have taken place in status of subsidiary and joint venture companies of the
Company:
Happily Unmarried Marketing Pvt. Ltd. (HUM): During the year under review, the
Company had sold its entire shareholding of 30.48% held through its wholly-owned
subsidiary, Startup Investments (Holding) Limited (SIHL) in its associate company namely
HUM to VLCC Health Care Limited (VLCC) via a mix of cash and other than cash consideration
(swap of shares) for an aggregate consideration of Rs.611.04 Million. Consequently, HUM
has ceased to be an Associate of the Company and the Company, through SIHL holds a stake
of 1.24% in VLCC.
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. (Univariety): During the year under
review, Univariety had allocated shares to its ESOP Trust, pursuant to its ESOP Scheme,
due to which the shareholding of the Company in Univariety held through its wholly-owned
subsidiary, Startup Investments (Holding) Limited (SIHL), diluted to 47.12% and therefore,
it has ceased to be a step-down Subsidiary of the Company. However, it continues to be an
Associate of the Company.
Wishbook Infoservices Pvt. Ltd. (Wishbook): Subsequent to the end of the year
under review, the Company has decided to divest its total shareholding of 34.93% held in
Wishbook, on fully converted & diluted basis, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Startup Investments (Holding) Limited to its director & promoter for sale value of
about Rs.0.01 Million. The said investment in Wishbook has already been impaired during
FY20.
During the year, the Board of Directors of your Company reviewed the affairs of the
subsidiaries. A statement containing the salient features of the financial statements of
the subsidiaries/joint ventures (associate) companies in the prescribed format AOC-I is
given as Annexure I to this report. The statement also provides the details of performance
and financial position of each of the subsidiaries/joint ventures (associate) companies
and their contribution to the overall performance of the Company.
The developments in the operations/performance of each of the subsidiaries & joint
ventures (associate) companies included in the Consolidated Financial Statements are
presented in the next page:
WHOLLY-OWNED SUBSIDIARIES/SUBSIDIARIES:
Sl. No. Name of the entity |
Relationship with the Company (Subsidiaries/ Joint
Venture/As- sociate/ Investee Company) and Shareholding as on March 31, 2024 |
Business Overview of entity |
Details of Investments and Inter-corporate loans, if any |
Annual Financial performance of the entity |
1 Startup Investments (Holding) Ltd. (SIHL) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary. The Company holds a 100% stake in SIHL, directly
and indirectly through Naukri Internet Services Ltd., a wholly - owned subsidiary of the
Company, on a fully converted and diluted basis. |
SIHL is engaged in the business of being a holding & investment
company and providing management consultancy activities including provision of advice,
guidance or operational assistance to businesses. |
During the year under review, SIHL has granted an inter-corporate loan
amounting to Rs.10 Million to Happily Unmarried Marketing Pvt. Ltd. (HUM) and acquired
1,075 Equity Shares of HUM on a right basis for an aggregate consideration of about
Rs.0.01 Million. Further, during the year, SIHL had sold its entire shareholding of 30.48%
held in HUM to VLCC Health Care Limited (VLCC) via a mix of cash and other than cash
consideration (swap of shares) for an aggregate consideration of Rs.611.04 Million. |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.3,153.47 Million For
FY23 - Rs.(916.27) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(724.60) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(701.87) Million |
|
|
|
Further, SIHL, during the year under review, issued and allotted, 3,210
equity shares of Rs.10/- each at a premium of Rs.155,763/- per share for about Rs.500.03
Million to Naukri Internet Services Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. |
|
|
|
|
Also, during the year under review, SIHL had granted an Inter Corporate
Loan of Rs.10 Million to Univariety. |
|
|
|
|
During the year under review, SIHL has directly made the following
contributions to Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) controlled by the Company: |
|
|
|
|
735,000, Class A Units of IE Venture Fund Follow-on I, a scheme of
Info Edge Venture Fund, a Category II AIF, registered under the SEBI (Alternate Investment
Funds) Regulations, 2012 for consideration of about Rs.73.5 Million. |
|
|
|
|
6,775,000 Class A Units of IE Venture Investment Fund II, a scheme
of Info Edge Capital, a trust registered with SEBI as a Category II AlF, under the SEBI
(Alternate Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012 for consideration of about Rs.677.5
Million. |
|
|
|
|
3,675,000, Class A Units of Capital 2B Fund I, a scheme of Info
Edge Venture Fund, a trust registered with SEBI as Category II AIF, under the SEBI
(Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012, for consideration of Rs.367.5 Million. |
|
2 Diphda Internet Services Ltd. (Diphda) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary |
Diphda is engaged in the business of providing all kinds and types of
internet, computer and electronics data processing services. |
Nil |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.8,107.37 Million For
FY23 - Rs.(908.00) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(0.22) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(0.10) Million |
3 Naukri Internet Services Ltd. (NISL) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary |
NISL is engaged in the business of all types of internet, computer,
electronic data processing and electronic and related services. |
During the year, NISL has availed an inter-corporate loan of Rs.300
Million from the Company which was fully repaid during the year. Further, NISL issued
3,000,000, 0.0001% Compulsorily Convertible Debentures of Rs.100/- each to the Company,
for Rs.300 Million. Furthermore, during the year under review, NISL acquired 3,210 Equity
Shares of SIHL for aggregate consideration of about Rs.500.03 Million. |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.570.67 Million For
FY23 - Rs.(129.15) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.4.19 Million For
FY23 - Rs.6.22 Million |
4 Allcheckdeals India Pvt. Ltd. (ACD) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary |
ACD provides brokerage services in the real estate sector in India. |
During the year, ACD acquired 10,000, 0.0001% Compulsorily Convertible
Debentures of Rs.100/- each of Interactive Visual Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (Interactive) for an
aggregate consideration of Rs.1 Million. |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(29.79) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(2,860.47) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(29.79) Million
For FY23 - Rs.(2,860.47) Million |
5 NewInc Internet Services Pvt. Ltd. (NewInc) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary. The Company holds a 100% stake in Newinc,
directly and indirectly through ACD, on a fully converted and diluted basis. |
NewInc is engaged in the business of providing all kinds and types of
internet, computer and electronics data processing services. |
Nil |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.14.53 Million For
FY23 - Rs.(0.22) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.14.53 Million For FY23
- Rs.(0.22) Million |
6 Interactive Visual Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (Interactive) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary. The Company holds a 100% stake in Interactive,
directly and through ACD on a fully converted and diluted basis. |
Interactive is the owner of a proprietary software which enables a high
quality virtual video/3D image of a proposed or existing real estate development to be
viewed online by customers. |
During the year, Interactive issued and allotted 10,000, 0.0001 %
Compulsorily Convertible Debentures of Rs.100/- each to ACD for Rs.1 Million. |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(0.21) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(0.23) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(0.21) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(0.23) Million |
7 Jeevansathi Internet Services Pvt. Ltd. (JISPL) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary |
JISPL owns & holds the domain names & related trademarks of the
Company. |
During the year under review, JISPL issued and allotted, 2,540,000,
0.0001% Compulsorily Convertible Debentures of Rs.100/- each to the Company for Rs.254
Million. Also, during the year under review, JISPL has provided an inter-corporate loan
for an amount of Rs.100 Million to Aisle, subsidiary company of JISPL. |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(1.99) Million For
FY23 - Rs.0.61 Million Net profit after tax/ (loss): For FY24 - Rs.(1.99) Million For FY23
- Rs.0.61 Million |
8 Smartweb Internet Services Ltd. (SMISL) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary. The Company holds a 100% stake in SMISL,
directly and indirectly through SIHL, a wholly - owned subsidiary of the Company, on a
fully converted and diluted basis. |
SMISL is engaged in the business of providing all kinds of internet
services and to act as investment advisor, financial consultant, management consultant,
investment manager and/or sponsor of alternative investment fund(s). SMISL acts as an
investment manager to Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) registered with SEBI, named as
Info Edge Venture Fund (IEVF), Info Edge Capital (IEC) and Capital 2B (C2B) Trusts,
registered with SEBI as a Category-II AIF under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds)
Regulations, 2012. |
Nil |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.55.05 Million For
FY23 - Rs.158.76 Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.43.21 Million For FY23
- Rs.145.15 Million |
9 Startup Internet Services Ltd. (SISL) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary |
SISL is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, incorporated for the
purpose of providing all kinds and types of internet services. |
Nil |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.134.19 Million For
FY23 - Rs.505.44 Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.6.28 Million For FY23
- Rs.4.65 Million |
10 Redstart Labs (India) Ltd. (Redstart) |
Wholly-owned subsidiary |
Redstart provides all kinds and types of Internet services, development
of software, consultancy, technical support for consumer companies, internet or SaaS
providers and any other services in the area of information technology and product
development. |
During the year under review, Redstart issued and allotted, 20,000,000,
equity shares of Rs.10/- each to the Company for Rs.200 Million. Further, Redstart has
also issued and allotted, 3,000,000, 0.0001% Compulsorily Convertible Debentures of
Rs.100/- each to the Company for Rs.300 Million. Also, in FY23, Redstart had availed an
inter-corporate loan of Rs.650 Million from the Company, which has been fully repaid as on
March 31,2024. |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(146.03) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(133.62) Million Net profit after tax/ (loss): For FY24 - Rs.(33.18) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(23.48) Million |
|
|
|
Furthermore, Redstart has made the following investments by way of
subscription/purchase of shares/ convertible notes: |
|
|
|
|
Convertible Note of Brainsight Technology Pvt. Ltd. for an
aggregate amount of Rs.9.89 Million. |
|
|
|
|
555,556 Series pre-seed Preferred Stock of SkyServe Inc. for an
aggregate amount of Rs.42.06 Million. |
|
|
|
|
1,122,019 series seed A-5 Preferred Stock of Ray IOT Solutions
Inc. for an aggregate amount of Rs.33.65 Million. |
|
|
|
|
134, Compulsorily Convertible Cumulative Participating Preference
Shares of Unboxrobotics Labs Pvt. Ltd. for an aggregate amount of about Rs.10.20 Million. |
|
|
|
|
Further during the year under review, Redstart had granted an
inter-corporate loan to Rayiot Solutions Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of RayIOT Solutions Inc.
amounting to Rs.13 Million. |
|
11 Zwayam Digital Pvt. Ltd. (Zwayam) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary |
Zwayam is engaged in the business of providing SaaS based end to end
recruitment process automation Solutions to its corporate customers. |
During the year under review, Zwayam has issued and allotted 3,500,000,
0.0001% Compulsorily Convertible Debentures of Rs.100/- each to the Company for an
aggregate consideration of about Rs.350 Million. |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(185.45) Million For
FY23 - Rs.24.13 Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(185.45) Million For
FY23 - Rs.25.58 Million |
12 Axilly labs Pvt. Ltd. (Doselect) |
Wholly-owned Subsidiary |
Doselect is engaged in the business of providing technical assessment
services to its clients for recruitment and learning purposes. It delivers these services
via its technical assessment platform Doselect. |
Nil |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.133.40 Million For
FY23 - Rs.144.05 Million Net profit after tax/ (loss): For FY24 - Rs.133.40 Million For
FY23 - Rs.144.14 Million |
13 Makesense Technologies Ltd. (MTL) |
Subsidiary. The Company holds a stake of 50.01% of MTL while MTL holds
about 13.27% in Policybazaar. |
MTL is engaged in the business of providing services and solutions in
relation to placement consultancy, personnel recruitment, staffing, professional hiring
and management consultancy to all kinds of persons, firms or organizations. |
Nil |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.25,717.38 Million
For FY23 - Rs.(2,880.38) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(1.03) Million
For FY23 - Rs.(0.39) Million |
*All holdings given above are on a fully converted and diluted basis.
MTL and Policybazaar at their respective Board Meetings, held on April 26, 2022, had
approved the Scheme of Amalgamation between MTL (Transferor Company) and Policybazaar
(Transferee Company) and their respective shareholders, under Sections 230 to 232 and
other applicable provisions of the Act, including rules made thereunder. The said Scheme
is subject to the necessary regulatory and statutory approvals. Upon the said Scheme
becoming effective and pursuant to proportionate share issuance by the Transferee Company
to the shareholders of the Transferor Company, economic interest of the Company in
Policybazaar shall remain unchanged.
The aforesaid Scheme was filed by the Transferee Company with NSE and BSE and
no-objection certificate has also been issued by the NSE and BSE on the
Scheme. Further, during FY24, the Transferor Company and Transferee Company have filed
a Joint Application before the Hon'ble Tribunal, under the provisions of Sections 230 to
232 of the Act. The Hon'ble Tribunal vide its order dated July 05, 2023 had directed to
convene meetings of equity shareholders of Transferor Company and equity shareholders
& unsecured creditors of the Transferee Company. The meetings were convened on
September 02, 2023, wherein the resolution approving the Scheme was duly passed with the
requisite majority by the equity shareholders of Transferor Company and equity
shareholders & unsecured creditors of the Transferee Company. Subsequently, the
Transferor Company and Transferee Company had filed the joint second motion petition
before the Hon'ble Tribunal on September 14, 2023 and the same is under process.
INVESTEE COMPANIES
Your Company has the following continuing external financial and strategic investments.
All holding percentages in the investee companies given below are computed on fully
converted and diluted basis. The percentage holdings are held directly or indirectly
through its subsidiaries. It may be noted that the actual economic interest in these
investee companies may or may not result into equivalent percentage shareholding on
account of the terms of the agreements with them and ESOP Pool (if any).
A. SUBSIDIARIES
Sl. No Name of. the entity |
Relationship with the Company (Subsidiaries/Joint
Venture/Associate/ Investee Company) and Shareholding status as on March 31, 2024 |
Business Overview of entity |
Details of Investments and Intercorporate loans, if any |
Annual Financial performance of the entity |
1 Sunrise Mentors Pvt. Ltd. (Sunrise) |
Subsidiary. The Company's stake in Sunrise is 54.64% including a 1.37%
stake through its wholly-owned subsidiary, SIHL. |
Sunrise is engaged in the business of providing online education and
operates an e-learning platform Coding Ninjas. |
Nil |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(522.41) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(424.61) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(526.36) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(431.96) Million |
2 Aisle Network Pvt. Ltd. (Aisle) |
Subsidiary. The Company's stake in Aisle is 94.38% through its
wholly-owned subsidiary, JISPL. |
Aisle is engaged in the business of running multiple dating platforms on
the web via its mobile apps Aisle, Anbe, Arike, Neetho and Jalebi. These platforms allow
users to browse through profiles of other users with the intent of finding their suitable
partner. |
During the year under review, Aisle has availed an inter-corporate loan
of Rs.100 Million from JISPL, the holding company of Aisle. Further, during the year under
review, Aisle had bought back its 4,158 issued and fully paid- up equity shares issued to
its promoter for a consideration of Rs.0.04 Million. |
The Total Comprehensive Income/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(273.47) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(189.34) Million Net profit after tax/(loss): For FY24 - Rs.(274.20) Million For
FY23 - Rs.(188.30) Million |
The investments made into the shares of 4B Networks Pvt. Ltd. (Broker Network) and the
loans given to it, by the Company through its wholly-owned subsidiary, ACD, were fully
impaired in FY23, in the backdrop of various factors including inter alia excessive cash
burn, prevailing liquidity issues and significant uncertainty towards funding options.
Further, ACD had decided to exercise its contractual rights under the Shareholders
Agreement and initiated Forensic Audit into the affairs of Broker Network, since it
committed multifarious events of defaults and repeatedly failed to provide the requested
crucial information in terms of the Shareholders Agreement and its Articles of
Association. The final report of the Forensic Audit is still pending owing to the
continued failure of Broker Network and Mr. Rahul Yadav, the Promoter of Broker Network,
to share the requested information.
Consequently, ACD exercised its legal rights under the Shareholders Agreement. ACD
filed applications for interim reliefs before the Delhi High Court and the Arbitral
Tribunal. Pertinently, the Delhi High Court, vide order July 24, 2023, inter alia directed
Broker Network and its Promoter to not sell, transfer, alienate, encumber, or create any
third-party rights in the assets and properties of Broker Network, and preserve the books,
records, accounts, databases, servers, and any other devices, documentation, or
information of Broker Network. Further, the Arbitral Tribunal passed an order dated August
14, 2023 allowing the inspection of books of accounts of Broker Network for the FY22, FY23
and FY24. Later, on December 21, 2023, the Arbitral Tribunal directed Broker Network and
its Promoter to maintain status quo as regards their assets and properties; and preserve
the books, records etc. of Broker Network, its directors, and key managerial persons.
Subsequently, vide order dated May 10, 2024, the Arbitral Tribunal inter alia directed the
Promoter of Broker Network to provide the information requested during the Forensic Audit
within 4 weeks of the said order. Despite the above orders, Broker Network has, till date,
failed to cooperate in providing inspection of its books of accounts and to provide the
information requested during the Forensic Audit.
Before the Arbitral Tribunal, the ACD has, inter alia, raised claims concerning breach
of obligations and damages for failure of Broker Network and its Promoter to honour the
put option. In the arbitration proceedings, the pleadings have been completed and the next
date is fixed for settlement of issues on May 20, 2024.
Separately, the Company had learnt that, based on an application filed by a financial
creditor of Broker Network, National Company Law Tribunal ('NCLT'), Mumbai, had vide order
dated January 12, 2024, initiated corporate insolvency resolution process ('CIRP') against
Broker Network and consequently imposed moratorium.
Besides the above, ACD has filed a criminal complaint against Broker Network, its
Promoter and certain persons before the Economic Offences Wing, Mumbai, which is carrying
out the investigation against Broker Network. ACD is cooperating in such investigation.
B. OTHER INVESTEE COMPANIES
Sl. Name of the entity No. |
Relationship with the Company (Subsid- iaries/Joint Venture/
Associate/ Investee Company) |
Business Overview of entity |
Details of Investments and Inter-corporate loans, if any and
Shareholding as on the end of the year i.e. March 31, 2024 |
1 Zomato Ltd. |
Investee Company |
Zomato Limited owns & operates the website, www.zomato.com. It
generates revenue from advertisements of restaurants and lead sales. |
The Company directly holds stake of 13.55% in Zomato and holds 0.06%
through NISL. |
2 PB Fintech Ltd. (PB Fintech/ Policybazaar) |
Investee Company |
PB Fintech doing business as www. policybazaar.com, develops and
publishes an online financial services platform. The company offers a consumer centric
platform by partnering with financial services companies such as insurance companies to
help customers select products/schemes that best suit their requirements. |
The aggregate investment of the Company, held indirectly through its
Subsidiaries/Joint Ventures, in PB Fintech as on March 31, 2024 is 19.38%. However, since
49.99% of Makesense Technologies Ltd. (holding 13.27% in Policybazaar) is held by
MacRitchie Investments Pte. Ltd., an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Temasek Holdings
(Pvt.) Ltd. (Temasek), the Company's relevant economic interest in PB Fintech is 12.74%. |
3 Sploot Pvt. Ltd. (Sploot) |
Associate Company |
Sploot is engaged in the business of providing products and services to
pet parents with respect to the pet's health, behaviour and nutrition through content and
app-based help. This includes organization of pet's medical records, everyday tasks and
access to professionals and services. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.89.48 Million and holds a stake of
26.81% in Sploot. |
4 Printo Document Services Pvt. Ltd. (Printo) |
Associate Company |
Printo is a print-on-demand platform for personal and business print and
corporate merchandise in India. The Company provides business cards, business stationary,
ID cards/ accessories, flyers/leaflets, posters, standees, brochures, signage, stickers,
calendars and diaries; gift products; personalized greeting cards; photo books; T-shirts
and apparel; and marketing collaterals. It retails its products online and via retail
stores. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
SIHL has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.387.44 Million and holds a stake of
33.33% in Printo. |
5 Nopaperforms Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (Nopaperforms) |
Associate Company |
Nopaperforms runs a business of providing a SaaS platform (via website
namely www. nopaperforms.com) which has a suite of software products including lead
management system, application management system, campaign management etc. The site aims
to create IP out of providing an end-to-end solution to institutions and individuals, as
the case may be, for managing their leads and workflows. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
SIHL, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.336.64 Million and holds a stake of
47.90% in Nopaperforms. |
6 Agstack Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (Gramophone) |
Associate Company |
Gramophone is a technology enabled marketplace (operated through a
website www.gramophone.in and its app 'Gramophone') for enabling efficient farm
management. Farmers can buy quality agricultural input products like seeds, crop
protection, nutrition and equipment directly from its m-commerce platform. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
SIHL has invested aggregate amount of Rs.624.94 Million for a stake of 34.40%. Further,
subsequent to the end of the year under review and upto the date of this report, SIHL has
further agreed to invest Rs.150 Million in Gramophone. |
7 Medcords Healthcare Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (Medcords) |
Investee Company |
Medcords (operated through a website www. medcords.com and its app
'Medcords') is a cloudbased ML powered ecosystem that connects and enables various
stakeholders of the healthcare ecosystem. The ecosystem facilitates, among other things,
remote consultations and follow-up consultations with doctors, and intelligent
digitization of users' medical records and on-demand availability of such records. The
venture aims to create IP out of medical data and advanced analytics to create efficient
healthcare decision systems for doctors, hospitals, government, etc. They currently have a
web-app for doctors and android apps for pharmacies and patients. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
SIHL, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.96.38 Million for a stake of 14.24% on
a fully converted and diluted basis in Medcords. |
8 Shop Kirana E Trading Pvt. Ltd. (Shopkirana) |
Associate Company |
Shopkirana is engaged in the business of developing a B2B e-commerce
platform for ordering, delivery, payments and related products/services among various
stakeholders in grocery/FMCG supply chain. Shopkirana helps retailers with simple and
efficient M-distribution platform by ensuring the most competitive prices, quick delivery
and single sourcing channel for retailers while brands have visibility and direct connect
to retailers for promotions or product launch. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
SIHL, has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.1,271.72 Million for a stake of 26.36% in
Shopkirana. |
9 Greytip Software Pvt. Ltd. (Greytip) |
Associate Company |
Greytip is an HR and Payroll SaaS company focused on serving SME
customers in India and abroad. Their software solutions cover all areas, including
employee information management, leave and attendance management, payroll, expense claims
and more. They enable companies in their digital transformation by streamlining HR
operations, increasing productivity and by enhancing employee experience. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, has invested aggregate amount of about
Rs.650 Million and holds a stake of 24.18% in Greytip. |
10 LQ Global Services Pvt. Ltd. (Legitquest) |
Associate Company |
LegitQuest is SaaS product at the intersection of Technology & Legal
utilizing Machine Learning, Modern Search algorithm & Data Analytic for the legal
professionals. It is a Legal-Tech venture run by versatile team of techsavvy attorneys,
engineers and designers who aim to make the practice of law simpler for its end users. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024 through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
SIHL, has invested aggregate amount of Rs.40 Million and holds a stake of 23.07% in
Legitquest. |
11 Metis Eduventures Pvt. Ltd. (Adda247) |
Associate Company |
Adda247 is an online government jobs preparation platform. It is India's
leading education-technology company that helps students prepare for several government
jobs via its multiple platforms bankersadda.com, sscadda.com, Adda247 mobile app, Adda247
Youtube channel, teachersadda.com and Career Power. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024 , has invested an aggregate amount of
Rs.1,441.88 Million and holds a stake of 25.88% in Adda247. |
12 Terralytics Analysis Pvt. Ltd. (Terralytics) |
Associate Company |
Terralytics is engaged in the business of developing real estate
intelligence and analytics platform for sale to banks, developers, consulting firms, etc.
for diligence, information and other purposes. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, has invested an aggregate amount of
Rs.86.98 Million and holds a stake of 23.03% in Terralytics. |
13 Llama Logisol Pvt. Ltd. (Shipsy) |
Associate Company |
Shipsy's vision is to digitalize the entire logistics ecosystem. It has
launched the platform for Exporters and Importers to manage their vendors for Price
Procurement, Shipment Execution and end to end container tracking. The product is designed
to empower exporters and importers to digitalize their operations and bring about
significant time and cost savings. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024 through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
SIHL, has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.683.87 Million and holds a stake of 22.58% in
Shipsy. |
14 Juno Learning Pvt. Ltd. (Juno) |
Associate Company |
Juno is engaged in the business, which is an interactive, online school
that teaches sales techniques, processes, and tools to students and entry-level
professionals in an experiential manner, to enhance employability. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, has invested an aggregate amount of
Rs.112.50 Million and holds a stake of 25% in Juno. |
15 Crisp Analytics Pvt. Ltd. (Lumiq) |
Investee Company |
Lumiq provides an AI based data platform catering to Banks, Insurance
companies, NBFCs and other BFSI clients. Their product uses a layer of data adaptors which
captures data across workflows creating a data lake which acts as a single source of truth
for their clients. They also provide their own data storage and have proprietary AI engine
using which they have built various products on top of it like smart underwriting,
collection analytics, omni-channel customer experience management among others. It also
acts like a PaaS as many of their clients choose to build their own modules on top of
their data platform. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.26.98 Million and holds a stake of 2.50%
in Lumiq. |
16 Unboxrobotics Labs Pvt. Ltd. (Unbox Robotics) |
Investee Company |
Unbox Robotics is a leading supply chain robotics technology company,
specialising in robotics-based fulfilment and distribution technology for small to large
e-commerce, retail and logistics enterprises. Unbox Robotics' cutting edge technology
solutions accelerates the parcel sortation and order fulfilment to facilitate efficient
express logistics operations delivering seamless end customer experience. Unbox Robotics'
USP lies in its ability to scan, sort and dispatch packages in less than 5070% physical
space through its innovative and compact vertical sorting robotic solution. |
During the year, the Company through its wholly- owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.10.20 Million in Unbox Robotics.
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of
Rs.116.18. Million and holds a stake of 6.12% in Unbox Robotics. |
17 BrainSight Technology Pvt. Ltd. (BrainSight) |
Investee Company |
BrainSight is engaged in the business of facilitating the discovery of
holistic reporting built with imaging modalities such as fMRI, sMRI and digital phenotypes
processed through AI powered platform developed by the company. BrainSight is creating an
advanced suite of neuroinformatics, which combines 3D visualization, 3D modeling, AI and
advanced imaging modalities like resting- state fMRI with other modalities, to offer a
comprehensive picture of the brain. |
During the year under review, Brainsight has issued a Convertible Note to
Redstart for an aggregate amount of Rs.9.89 Million. The Company as on March 31, 2024,
through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of
Rs.20.85 Million and holds a stake of 4.00% in BrainSight exclusive of the aforementioned
convertible note. |
18 String Bio Pvt. Ltd. (String Bio) |
Investee Company |
String Bio is engaged in the business of developing, manufacturing and
selling of value added products from biological processes, including but not limited to
developing, manufacturing, marketing and selling of feed protein, human protein,
carotenoids, acetic acid, lactic acid, succinic acid or any other products by applying the
technology (SIMP platform) of converting the organic waste, biogas, methane using
recombinant methanotrophic bacteria, microorganisms and processes for fermentation and
purification of value added products from gaseous substrates. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.165 Million and holds a stake of
0.85% in String Bio. |
19 Attentive AI Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (Attentive AI) |
Investee Company |
Attentive AI is a deep learning company that applies machine learning
computer vision algorithms on satellite imagery to generate business insights useful for
insurance, navigation, landscaping and other industries. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.37.10 Million and holds a stake of 4.43%
in Attentive AI. |
20 Attentive OS Pvt. Ltd. (Attentive OS) |
Investee Company |
Attentive OS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Attentive Inc, US and it is
engaged in providing software development support to Attentive Inc, US. Redstart has
invested in the US entity of Attentive OS Pvt. Ltd. and had the right to invest in the
Indian entity under the executed Transaction documents, pursuant to which Attentive AI had
restructured the business and issued shares to Redstart in the Indian entity namely,
Attentive OS. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.1,460 and holds a stake of 10.25% in
Attentive OS. |
21 Skylark Drones Pvt. Ltd. (Skylark) |
Investee Company |
Skylark is engaged in the business of providing worksite intelligence
(including data such as site conditions and/or data analytics) (on platform developed by
the Company) to its customers of data collected by it and any other business that the
Company undertakes in the future as permitted by its charter documents. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.6 Million and holds a stake of 1.09% in
Skylark. |
22 RAY IOT Solutions Inc. (Ray IOT) |
Investee Company |
Ray IOT develops a non-contact breathing and sleep tracker for babies.
Raybaby analyzes and relays a host of information about your baby's health through an app
called 'Smart Journal'. Ray IOT has created the first and only non-contact wellness and
sleep tracker. |
During the year under review, the Company through its wholly-owned
subsidiary, Redstart has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.33.65 Million in Ray IOT.
Further, during the year under review, Redstart has extended an inter-corporate loan of
about Rs.13 Million to Rayiot Solutions Pvt. Ltd. a subsidiary of Ray IOT. The Company as
on March 31, 2024, through Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.56.01 Million
and holds a stake of 12.60% in Ray IOT. |
23 AarogyaAI Innovations Pvt. Ltd. (AarogyaAI Innovations) |
Investee Company |
AarogyaAI Innovations is engaged in the business of diagnosis of
drug-resistant diseases with the help of machine learning and AI-powered software. There
machine learning algorithm provides the output report of the comprehensive drug
susceptibility status of the patient based on the DNA sequence of the patient. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.22.50 Million and holds a stake of
4.17% in AarogyaAI Innovations. |
24 Psila Tech Pte. Ltd. (Psila) |
Investee Company |
Psila is engaged in building a platform for discovering and understanding
crypto and allied assets, community led social trading through integration with crypto
exchanges. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.57.30 Million and holds a stake of
13.38% in Psila. |
25 Vyuti Systems Pvt. Ltd. (Vyuti) |
Investee Company |
Vyuti is engaged in business of designing, developing, manufacturing,
selling and servicing of hardware and software solutions based on machine vision
technology that enables industrial robotic arms in auto component and OEM manufacturing
sectors, to universally pick, orient and place rigid objects from random orientations. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.22.50 Million and holds a stake of
2.07% in Vyuti. |
26 Ubifly Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (Ubifly) |
Investee Company |
Ubifly is engaged in the business of development and commercialization of
aerial vehicles and related technologies. |
The Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of about Rs.44.39 Million and holds a stake of
2.86% in Ubifly. |
27 SkyServe INC. (SkyServe) |
Investee Company |
SkyServe is an Insights-as-a-Service platform enabling satellite-based
edge computed insights for core industries and solution providers to scale faster and
affordably. It feeds sensor data to the models deployed on the edge and facilitates timely
predictions. SkyServe is expanding its offerings across satellite constellations and
sensing systems to get global coverage and richer, real time insights for the businesses. |
During the year, the Company through its wholly owned subsidiary,
Redstart, has invested an aggregate amount of Rs.42.06 Million in SkyServe. The Company as
on March 31, 2024, through Redstart, holds a stake of 5.55% in SkyServe. |
28 VLCC Healthcare Limited (VLCC) |
Investee Company |
VLCC founded as a beauty and slimming services centre, is today widely
recognized for its comprehensive portfolio of beauty and wellness products and services
which enjoys a high level of consumer trust. It manages one of the largest chains of
Slimming, Beauty & Fitness centers across Asia and operates one of Asia's largest
networks of vocational education academies in Beauty & Nutrition. |
During the year under review, the Company had sold its entire
shareholding held through its wholly- owned subsidiary, SIHL in its associate company
namely Happily Unmarried Marketing Pvt. Ltd. (HUM) to VLCC via a mix of cash and other
than cash consideration (swap of shares) for about Rs.611.04 Million. In pursuance of the
aforesaid, SIHL had acquired a stake of 1.24% in VLCC through a swap of shares. Therefore,
the Company as on March 31, 2024, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, SIHL, holds a stake
of 1.24% in VLCC. |
29 International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. (Univariety) |
Associate |
Univariety is engaged in an educational business of providing products
and services and counselling to students, schools, colleges and educators. These enable
students and parents take better informed decisions on higher education and related
products and services. The products and services are provided through physical connects,
an online portal named as www.univariety.com and through third party portals of partner
entities. |
During the year under review, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company,
SIHL has extended an inter-corporate loan of Rs.10 Million to Univariety. Further, during
the year, due to dilution in the stake held by SIHL in Univariety as result of further
issue of shares by Univariety pursuant to its ESOP Scheme, Univariety has ceased to be a
step-down subsidiary of the Company through SIHL. Accordingly, the Company as on March 31,
2024, through SIHL, holds a stake of 47.12%, in Univariety. |
Note: The Company has impaired certain investments over the years as have been reported
in the financial results from time to time.
The aforesaid Investee Company(ies), including the companies that became part of the
portfolio during the year (except Lumiq, Unbox Robotics, BrainSight, String Bio, Attentive
AI, Skylark, Ray IoT, AarogyaAI Innovations, Psila, Vyuti, Ubifly, Attentive OS, SkyServe,
VLCC and other listed investee companies), achieved an aggregate revenue of Rs.14,515.04
Million as against Rs.16,337.70 Million during the previous financial year. The aggregate
operating PBT level loss was Rs.4,148.92 Million as compared to Rs.7,195.52 Million during
the previous financial year.
The above companies are treated as 'Associate Company/Joint Ventures', except where
mentioned specifically, in our Consolidated Financial Statements as per the Accounting
Standards issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and notified by the
Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
Contributions made to Alternate Investment Funds
The Company had set up its first Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) in FY20 named Info
Edge Venture Fund (IEVF) to invest in technology and technology- enabled entities.
Smartweb Internet Services Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, acts as an
Investment Manager/Sponsor to the said AIF. IEVF was capitalized with Rs.7,500 Million
with 50% being invested by the Company and 50% by MacRitchie Investments Pte. Ltd. [an
indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Temasek Holdings (Pvt.) Ltd.]
Subsequently, the Company during FY23 added a second scheme, IE Venture Fund Follow-on
I (IEVF Follow-on Fund) to the IEVF and floated other two AIFs namely, Info Edge Capital
(IEC) and Capital 2B (C2B). IEC and C2B are registered with SEBI as Category II - AIF,
under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012. Smartweb Internet
Services Ltd. acts as an Investment Manager/Sponsor to IEC and C2B. IEC had launched a
scheme namely, IE Venture Investment Fund II (IEVI Fund II) and C2B had launched a scheme
by the name of Capital 2B Fund I (C2B Fund). Initially, MacRitchie Investments Pte. Ltd.
had committed to approximately 50% of total corpus of IEVI Fund II and C2B Fund (schemes
of IEC and C2B, respectively) in partnership with the Company.
Further, during FY24, IEVI Fund II and C2B Fund entered into Contribution Agreements
with DFOSG Pte. Ltd. (DFOSG). The updated details of the fund and schemes after such
commitments are as follows.
Name of the Fund |
Name of the scheme |
Revised Corpus after DFOSG Commitment (Rs. Mn) as on March 31,2024 |
% of Info Edge (India) Ltd. (direct and indirect)
commitment to total Corpus |
IEC |
IEVI Fund II |
12,706.25 |
44.66 |
C2B |
C2B Fund |
6,378.13 |
44.88 |
During the year under review, the Company has directly acquired 1,015,000, Class A
Units of the IEVF Follow- on Fund, a scheme of IEVF for consideration of about Rs.101.5
Million.
Further, IEVF Follow-on Fund, has returned the unutilized capital of Rs.780 Million to
the Company.
During the year under review, SIHL has also made the following contributions to AIFs by
acquisition of:
735,000, Class A Units of IEVF Follow-on Fund, a scheme of IEVF for
consideration of about Rs.73.5 Million.
6,775,000 Class A Units of IEVI Fund II, a scheme of IEC for consideration of
about Rs.677.5 Million.
3,675,000, Class A Units of C2B Fund a scheme of C2B for consideration of
Rs.367.5 Million.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 136 of the Act, the Financial Statements of the
Company, the Consolidated Financial Statements along with all relevant documents and the
Auditors' Report thereon form part of this Annual Report. Further, the audited financial
statements of each of the subsidiaries alongwith relevant Directors' Report and Auditors'
Report thereon are available on our website www.infoedge.in. These documents will
also be available for inspection during business hours at our registered office.
PARTICULARS OF LOANS, GUARANTEES OR INVESTMENTS
During the FY24, your Company invested (including outstanding inter-corporate loans),
directly or indirectly, about Rs.756.67 Million into the aforesaid investee companies.
This excludes investments made in AIFs directly or indirectly.
Further, particulars of all investments and loans are provided in notes to the
financial statements forming part of this Annual Report.
PARTICULARS OF CONTRACTS OR ARRANGEMENTS WITH RELATED PARTIES
As per the provisions of the Act and the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (Listing Regulations), the Company has formulated a Policy
on Related Party Transactions, which is available on Company's website at
http://www.infoedge.in/pdfs/ Related-Partv-Transaction-Policv.pdf.
The Policy intends to ensure that proper reporting, approval and disclosure processes
are in place for all related party transactions. This policy also specifically deals with
the review and approval of material related party transactions keeping in mind the
potential or actual conflicts of interest that may arise because of entering into these
transactions.
All related party transactions are periodically placed before the Audit Committee for
review and approval. Prior omnibus approval is also obtained for related party
transactions on an annual basis for transactions which are of repetitive nature and/or
entered in the ordinary course of business and at arm's length basis and such transactions
are reviewed by the Audit Committee on quarterly basis.
The particulars of contracts or arrangements with related parties referred to in
sub-section (1) of Section 188 of the Act in the prescribed Form AOC-2 are given in
Annexure II.
MATERIAL CHANGES AND COMMITMENT
There have been no material changes affecting the financial position of the Company
which have occurred between the end of the financial year of the Company and the date of
the Report.
As required under Section 134(3) of the Act, the Board of Directors informs the members
that during the financial year, there have been no material changes, except as disclosed
elsewhere in report:
In the nature of Company's business;
In the Company's subsidiaries or in the nature of business carried out by them;
and
In the classes of business in which the Company has an interest.
FUTURE OUTLOOK
FY24 was year when the Company's core operations grew as a more diversified portfolio.
These trends are anticipated to continue in FY25. However, the Company's largest business,
Naukri, will continue to face certain headwinds until the turnaround in IT sector hiring
begins. The business will clearly offset this with the new developments in the non-IT
customer base. Also, there will be focus on increase in average revenue per customer with
focused value added offerings. Many of the niche offering that form a part of the
recruitment business portfolio are also expected to see good traction in business. The
online real estate business is expected to thrive under favorable market conditions.
However, there will be stiff competition and continuous steps have to be taken to stay
competitive. In both the education and matrimonial space, there will be developments in
the specific market segments that Info Edge has strategically positioned its offerings.
These businesses are expected to drive new channels of revenue generation and deliver
better bottom-lines in FY25. Overall, the operating business has potential of maintaining
the existing growth rates even as the largest recruitment business will be under some
pressure. The investment side of the business is well organised and today the businesses
are in early phase of development. The two matured businesses have already had an IPO and
the Company's investments in this will continuously be monitored according to market
movements and internal requirements of liquidity. FY25 should be a positive year in the
next round of development.
3. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Your Company consistently prioritizes managing its affairs with diligence,
transparency, responsibility and accountability, thereby upholding the important dictum
that an organization's corporate governance philosophy is directly linked to high
performance. The Company understands and respects its fiduciary role and responsibility
towards its stakeholders and society at large and strives to serve their interests,
resulting in creation of value for all its stakeholders.
In terms of Regulation 34 of the Listing Regulations, a separate section on 'Corporate
Governance' with a detailed compliance report on corporate governance and a certificate
from M/s. Chandrasekaran Associates, Company Secretaries, Secretarial Auditors of the
Company regarding compliance of the conditions of Corporate Governance, forms part of this
Annual Report. The report on Corporate Governance also contains certain disclosures
required under the Act.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
The Management Discussion & Analysis Report for the year under review as stipulated
under Regulation 34 of the Listing Regulations is presented in a separate section forming
part of this Annual Report.
NUMBER OF MEETINGS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors of the Company met 6 (six) times during the year under review on
May 26, 2023, August 11, 2023, November 7, 2023, February 13, 2024, March 18, 2024 and
March 26, 2024. The details of the meetings of the Board including that of its Committees
and Independent Directors' meeting(s) are given in the Report on Corporate Governance
section forming part of this Annual Report.
BOARD COMMITTEES
The Company has several Board Committees which have been established as part of the
best corporate governance practices and are in compliance with the requirements of the
relevant provisions of applicable laws and statutes. As on March 31, 2024, the Board has 7
(seven) Committees, namely, Audit Committee, Stakeholders' Relationship Committee,
Corporate Social Responsibility Committee, Risk Management Committee, Nomination &
Remuneration Committee, Committee of Executive Directors and Business Responsibility &
Sustainability Reporting Committee.
During the year, all recommendations of Audit Committee were accepted by the Board.
The details of the composition, powers, functions, meetings of the Committees of the
Board held during the year are given in the Report on Corporate Governance section forming
part of this Annual Report.
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE VIGIL MECHANISM
The Company has formulated an effective Whistle Blower Mechanism and a policy that lays
down the process for raising concerns about unethical behavior, actual or suspected fraud
or violation of the Company's Code of Ethics & Conduct. The Company has appointed M/s.
Thought Arbitrage Consulting, as an Independent External Ombudsman. This policy is further
explained under Corporate Governance section, forming part of this Report and the full
text of the Policy is available on the website of the Company at www.infoedge.in.
Your Company hereby affirms that no Director/Employee have been denied access to the
Chairperson of the Audit Committee. Two (2) complaints were received through the said
mechanism which were duly resolved during the year under review.
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
The Company has duly approved a Risk Management Policy, formulated in compliance with
the Listing Regulations and applicable provisions of the Act, which inter-alia requires
the Company to lay down procedures about risk assessment and risk minimization. The
Company has an effective risk management procedure, which is governed at the highest level
by the Board of Directors, covering the process of identifying, assessing, mitigating,
reporting and review of critical risks impacting the achievement of Company's objectives
or threaten its existence. The Board is responsible for reviewing and ratifying the risk
management structure, processes and guidelines which are developed and maintained by the
Company.To further strengthen & streamline the procedures about risk assessment and
minimization procedures, the Board of Directors constituted a Board level Risk Management
Committee (RMC). RMC is responsible for monitoring and reviewing the risk management plan
and ensuring its effectiveness. During the year under review, the Risk Management Policy
and Charter of the RMC were reviewed and amended by the Board, considering the
recommendations of the RMC. The detailed terms of reference of RMC are given in the Report
on Corporate Governance section forming part of this Annual Report.
The Company follows a 4 (four) steps Risk Management framework which includes
identification of the risk to which Company is exposed to (basis relevance, type, source,
impact, severity, probability and function) as a first step, risk assessment (each risk
assessed to have a primary and secondary owner) as a second step, mitigation plan as third
step and monitoring as the fourth and the last step. The major risks identified by the
businesses and functions are systematically addressed through mitigating actions on a
continuing basis.
INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROLS
Your Company has put in place adequate internal financial controls with reference to
the financial statements. During the year, such controls were tested and no reportable
material weakness in the design or operation was observed.
The Company has also put in place adequate systems of Internal Control to ensure
compliance with policies and procedures which is commensurate with size, scale and
complexity of its operations. The Company has appointed an external professional firm as
Internal Auditor. The Internal Audit of the Company is regularly carried out to review the
internal control systems and processes. The Internal Audit Reports along with
implementation and recommendations contained therein are periodically reviewed by Audit
Committee of the Board.
DETAILS OF SIGNIFICANT AND MATERIAL ORDERS PASSED BY THE REGULATORS/COURTS/TRIBUNALS
During the year under review, no significant and material orders have been passed by
the regulators or courts or tribunals impacting the going concern status and Company's
operations in the future.
INSOLVENCY AND BANKRUPTCY CODE, 2016
No application or any proceeding has been filed against the Company under the
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (31 of 201 6) (IBC Code) during the FY24.
DETAILS OF DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AMOUNT OF THE VALUATION DONE AT THE TIME OF ONE TIME
SETTLEMENT AND THE VALUATION DONE WHILE TAKING LOAN FROM THE BANKS OR FINANCIAL
INSTITUTIONS ALONG WITH THE REASONS THEREOF
The Company has not made any one-time settlement, therefore, the above disclosure is
not applicable.
ANNUAL RETURN
As required by Section 92(3) of the Act, the Annual Return of the Company is available
on the website of the Company at www.infoedge.in/InvestorRelations/ IR Annual Return.
DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
At Info Edge, it is our belief that a strong Board is imperative to create a culture of
leadership to provide a long-term vision and policy approach to improve the quality of
governance.
In accordance with the approval of the members obtained through Postal Ballot process
which concluded on March 30, 2023, Mr. Pawan Goyal (DIN: 07614990) was appointed as a
Whole-time Director of the Company, liable to retire by rotation, for a term of 5 (five)
consecutive years, effective from April 30, 2023 upto April 29, 2028.
Further, Mr. Sanjiv Sachar (DIN: 02013812) was appointed as an Independent Director of
the Company to hold office for a term of 5 (five) consecutive years on the Board of the
Company effective from July 15, 2023 upto July 14, 2028 in accordance with the approval of
the members obtained at the 28th AGM of the Company held on August 25, 2023.
Thereafter, with effect from August 12, 2023, Mr. Saurabh Srivastava, Mr. Naresh Gupta
and Ms. Bala C Deshpande ceased to be the Non-executive Directors of the Company, after
expiry of their respective tenure(s) on August 12, 2023. The Board places on record its
deep appreciation for the contribution made by Mr. Saurabh Srivastava, Mr. Naresh Gupta
and Ms. Bala C Deshpande during their respective tenure(s) as Director of the Company and
wishes them all success, happiness and best of health in life.
Further, on the basis of recommendation of Nomination & Remuneration Committee, the
Board Directors, at its meeting held on February 13, 2024, had approved the re-appointment
of Ms. Geeta Mathur (DIN: 02139552) as an Independent Director of the Company, not liable
to retire by rotation, for a second term for 5 (five) consecutive years effective from May
28, 2024 up to May 27, 2029 (both days inclusive), which was subsequently approved by the
members through Postal Ballot process on April 20, 2024.
Pursuant to clause (iiia) of sub-rule 5 of Rule 8 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules,
2014, the Board is of the opinion that Mr. Sanjiv Sachar and Ms. Geeta Mathur, who were
appointed/re-appointed during the year under review as Independent Directors, possesses
high integrity, expertise and experience, enabling them to effectively perform their
duties.
The present term of appointment of Mr. Chintan Thakkar (DIN: 00678173) as the
Whole-time Director is valid up to October 15, 2024. In view of the above, the Board has
in its meeting held on May 16, 2024, subject to the approval of the members in the
forthcoming Annual General Meeting, and on recommendation of Nomination & Remuneration
Committee approved the re-appointment of Mr. Thakkar as the Whole-time Director designated
as a Whole-time Director & Chief Financial Officer of the Company for another period
of 5 (five) consecutive years, after completion of his present term i.e. from October 16,
2024 to October 15, 2029.
DIRECTORS LIABLE TO RETIRE BY ROTATION
In accordance with the provisions of the Act, not less than 2/3rd
(Two-third) of the total number of Directors (other than Independent Directors) shall be
liable to retire by rotation and 1/3rd (One-third) of such directors shall
retire at every annual general meeting of the Company. Accordingly, pursuant to the Act
read with Article 48 of the Articles of Association of the Company, Mr. Kapil Kapoor, Non-
Executive Director & Chairman, (DIN: 00178966) is liable to retire by rotation and,
being eligible, offers himself for re-appointment.
DECLARATION BY INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
The Independent Directors hold office for their respective term and are not liable to
retire by rotation. The Company has received declarations from all the Independent
Directors of the Company confirming that they meet the criteria of independence as
prescribed both under the Act and under the Listing Regulations and that they are not
aware of any circumstance or situation, which exists or may be reasonably anticipated,
that could impair or impact their ability to discharge their duties with an objective
independent judgment and without any external influence as required under Regulation 25 of
the Listing Regulations. Further, in pursuance of Rule 6 of the Companies (Appointment and
Qualifications of Directors) Rules, 2014, all Independent Directors of the Company have
duly confirmed their respective registration with the Indian Institute of Corporate
Affairs (IICA) database.
Further, in the opinion of the Board, the Independent Directors of the Company possess
the requisite expertise and experience (including the proficiency) and are persons of high
integrity and repute. Matrix of key skills, expertise and core competencies of the Board,
including the Independent Directors, forms a part of the Corporate Governance Report part
of this Annual Report.
FAMILIARIZATION PROGRAMME FOR THE INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
In compliance with the requirements of the Listing Regulations, the Company has put in
place a familiarization programme for the Independent Directors to familiarize them with
their roles, rights and responsibilities as Directors, the working of the Company, nature
of the industry in which the Company operates, business model etc. They are given full
opportunity to interact with senior management personnel and are provided with all the
documents required and/or sought by them to have a good understanding of the Company, its
business model and various operations and the industry of which it is a part.
During the year under review, a familiarization programme was conducted for the new
Independent Director, namely Mr. Sanjiv Sachar. The Company has also issued formal letter
of appointment outlining his role, functions, duties and responsibilities.
The details of the familiarization programme are explained in the Corporate Governance
which forms part of this Annual Report. The same is also available on the website of the
Company and can be accessed by web link http://www.infoedge.in/pdfs/Board-Familiarisation.pdf.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Listing Regulations laying down the key functions of the Board, mandates that the Board
shall monitor and review the Board Evaluation Process and also stipulates that the
Nomination & Remuneration Committee of the Company shall lay down the evaluation
criteria for performance evaluation of Independent Directors, Board of Directors,
Committee and Individual Directors. Section 134 of the Act states that a formal evaluation
needs to be made by the Board of its own performance and that of its committees and
individual directors. Further, Schedule IV to the Act states that performance evaluation
of Independent Directors shall be done by the entire Board of Directors, excluding the
director being evaluated. In accordance with the aforesaid provisions, the Board has
carried out the annual performance evaluation of its own performance, the Directors
individually as well as the evaluation of the working of its Committees through structured
questionnaires covering various aspects of the functioning of Board and its Committees.
Some of the performance indicators based on which the evaluation takes place are -
attendance in the meetings, quality of preparation/participation, ability to provide
leadership and work as team player. In addition, few criteria for independent Directors
include commitment to protecting/enhancing interests of all shareholders and contribution
in implementation of best governance practices. Performance criteria for Whole-time
Directors includes contribution to the growth of the Company, new ideas/planning and
compliances with all policies of the Company.
The Board of Directors had expressed their satisfaction to the overall evaluation
process.
SEPARATE MEETING OF INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
Pursuant to Schedule IV to the Act and the Listing Regulations, 1 (one) meeting of
Independent Directors was held during the year i.e. on May 26, 2023 without the attendance
of Executive Directors and members of Management.
In addition, the Company encourages regular separate meetings of its Independent
Directors to update them on all business-related issues and new initiatives. At such
meetings, the Executive Directors and other members of the Management make presentations
on relevant issues.
KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
The following persons have been designated as Key Managerial Personnel of the Company
pursuant to Section 2(51) of the Act, read with the Rules framed thereunder:
1. Mr. Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Founder & Executive Vice Chairman;
2. Mr. Hitesh Oberoi, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer;
3. Mr. Chintan Thakkar, Whole-time Director & Chief Financial Officer;
4. Mr. Pawan Goyal, Whole-time Director & Chief Business Officer-Naukri with effect
from April 30, 2023; and
5. Ms. Jaya Bhatia, Company Secretary & Compliance Officer.
4. AUDITORS AND AUDITOR'S REPORT
STATUTORY AUDITORS
In terms of the provisions of Section 139 of the Act, M/s. S.R. Batliboi &
Associates LLP, Chartered Accountants (FRN: 101049W/E300004), pursuant to your approval,
were re-appointed as Statutory Auditors of the Company, to hold office for the second term
of 5 (five) consecutive years from the conclusion of the 27th Annual General
Meeting, held on August 26, 2022, till the conclusion of the 32nd Annual
General Meeting of the Company.
The notes on financial statements referred to in the Auditors' Report are
self-explanatory and do not call for any further comments. The Auditors' Report does not
contain any qualification, reservation or adverse remark or disclaimer.
SECRETARIAL AUDITORS
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Act read with Companies (Appointment
and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, the Board of Directors had
appointed M/s. Chandrasekaran Associates, Company Secretaries as the Secretarial Auditors
of the Company to undertake Secretarial Audit of the Company for financial year ended
March 31, 2024. Their report is reviewed by the Audit Committee and the Board on quarterly
basis.
The Secretarial Audit Report and Secretarial Compliance Report are annexed herewith as
Annexure III. The Secretarial Audit Report is self-explanatory and does not contain any
qualification, reservation or adverse remark or disclaimer.
INTERNAL AUDITORS
M/s. T.R. Chadha & Co LLP, Chartered Accountants perform the duties of internal
auditors of the Company and their report is reviewed by the Audit Committee on a quarterly
basis.
MAINTAINANCE OF COST RECORDS
The provisions of maintenance of Cost Records as specified by the Central Government
under subsection (1) of Section 148 of the Act are not applicable on the Company.
REPORTING OF FRAUDS BY AUDITORS
During the year under review, none of the auditors, viz. Statutory Auditors and
Secretarial Auditors have reported to the Audit Committee, under Section 143(12) of the
Act, any instances of fraud committed against the Company by its officers or employees,
the details of which would need to be mentioned in the Board's Report.
5. CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR)
For your Company, CSR means the integration of social, environmental and economic
concerns in its business operations. CSR involves operating Company's business in a manner
that meets or exceeds the ethical, legal, commercial and public expectations that society
has of businesses. In alignment with vision of the Company, Info Edge, through its CSR
initiatives, will continue to enhance value creation in the society through its services,
conduct & initiatives, so as to promote sustained growth for the society.
The CSR Committee of the Company helps the Company to frame, monitor and execute the
CSR activities of the Company. The Committee defines the parameters and observes them for
effective discharge of the social responsibility of your Company. The CSR Policy of your
Company outlines the Company's philosophy & the mechanism for undertaking socially
useful programmes for welfare & sustainable development of the community at large as
part of its duties as a responsible corporate citizen. The CSR Committee also formulates
and recommends to the Board of the Company, CSR annual action plan in pursuance to its
Policy. The constitution of the CSR Committee is given in the Corporate Governance Report
which forms part of this Annual Report. The CSR Policy of the Company is available on the
Company's website at http://www.infoedge.in/pdfs/CSR-Policv.pdf.
CSR FUNDS ALLOCATED
A snapshot of the geography-wise and sector-wise spread of the causes, entities and the
kind of themes supported by the Company is given below:
CSR PROJECTS FUNDED IN FY24
Info Edge's CSR policy mainly focuses on supporting organizations that are making
impactful interventions at various stages across the education and employability spectrum.
The details of the CSR Projects supported by the Company during the year are available on
the Company's website at https://www.infoedge.in/pdfs/ CSR-Projects-FY2023-24.pdf.
The Annual Report on CSR activities in accordance with the Companies (Corporate Social
Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014 as amended, is set out as Annexure IV to this Report.
BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Pursuant to Regulation 34(2)(f) of the Listing Regulations and related Circulars issued
by SEBI, the Company has provided the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report
(BRSR) in the format as specified by SEBI which indicates the Company's performance
against the principles of the 'National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct'. This
would enable the Members to have an insight into environmental, social and governance
initiatives of the Company.
Further, Independent Reasonable Assurance on the BRSR Core Indicators in the BRSR for
FY24 has been provided by SGS India Private Limited (SGS). The scope and basis of
assurance have been described in the Independent Reasonable Assurance Statement issued by
SGS which forms part of the BRSR.
In terms of Listing Regulations, a separate section on BRSR with a detailed compliance
report forms part of this Annual Report and is given in Annexure V.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION, FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS AND OUTGO
The particulars relating to conservation of energy and technology absorption as
required to be disclosed under the Act are part of Annexure VI to the Directors' Report.
The particulars regarding foreign exchange earnings and expenditure are furnished below:
(Rs. Mn)
Particulars |
FY24 |
FY23 |
Foreign exchange earnings |
|
|
Revenue |
1,544.91 |
1,317.51 |
Total inflow |
1,544.91 |
1,317.51 |
Foreign exchange outflow |
|
|
Internet & Server Charges |
0.12 |
0.22 |
Advertising & Promotion Cost |
19.89 |
40.00 |
Foreign Branch Expenses |
240.87 |
212.71 |
Others |
27.02 |
25.81 |
Total Outflow |
287.90 |
278.74 |
Net Foreign exchange inflow |
1,257.01 |
1,038.77 |
GREEN INITIATIVE
The Company has implemented the 'Green Initiative' to enable electronic delivery of
notice/documents/annual reports to shareholders.
Further, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India (MCA) vide General
Circular Nos. 14/2020 dated April 08, 2020, 17/2020 dated April 13, 2020, 20/2020 dated
May 5, 2020, 22/2020 dated June 15, 2020, 33/2020 dated September 28, 2020, 39/2020 dated
December 31, 2020, 02/2021 dated January 13, 2021, 10/2021 dated June 23, 2021, 19/2021
dated December 8, 2021,20/2021 dated December 8, 2021,21/2021 dated December 14, 2021
2/2022 dated May 5, 2022, 10/2022 dated December 28, 2022 and 09/2023 dated September 25,
2023 (collectively referred to as "MCA Circulars") and circulars issued by the
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) bearing Circular Nos. SEBI/HO/CFD/CMD1/
CIR/P/2020/79 dated May 12, 2020, SEBI/HO/CFD/ CMD2/CIR/P/2021/11 dated January 15, 2021,
SEBI/ HO/CFD/CMD2/CIR/P/2022/62 dated May 13, 2022, SEBI/HO/CFD/CMD/CIR/P/2020/242 dated
December 09, 2020 SEBI/HO/CFD/PoD-2/P/CIR/2023/4 dated January 5, 2023 and
SEBI/HO/DDHS/P/CIR/2023/0164 dated October 06, 2023 (hereinafter collectively referred to
as 'the Circulars') has allowed companies to conduct their extra-ordinary general
meeting/annual general meeting (EGM/AGM) through video conferencing or other audio visual
means and also granted relaxations to issue/service notices and other reports/documents of
AGM/EGM/Postal Ballots to its shareholders, only electronically, at their registered
e-mail address(es).
Accordingly, in compliance with the aforementioned Circulars, Notice of the AGM along
with the Annual Report 2023-24 is being sent only through electronic mode to those Members
whose e-mail addresses are registered with the Company/Depository Participant. Members may
note that the Notice and Annual Report 2023-24 will also be available on the Company's
website www.infoedge.in. websites of the Stock Exchanges i.e. BSE and NSE at www.bseindia.com
and www.nseindia. com respectively, and on the website of e-voting agency i.e.
National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) https://www.evoting.nsdl.com.
The members of the Company are requested to send their request for registration of
e-mails by following the procedure given below for the purpose of receiving the AGM Notice
along-with Annual Report 2023-24:
Registration of e-mail addresses for shareholders holding shares in physical form:
The members of the Company holding equity shares of the Company in physical form and
who have not registered their e-mail addresses may get their e-mail addresses registered
with Link Intime India Pvt. Ltd. (RTA), by clicking the link: https://liiplweb.linkintime.
co.in/EmailReg/Email Register.html and follow the registration process as guided
therein. The members are requested to provide details such as name, folio number,
certificate number, PAN, mobile number and e-mail address and also upload the image of
PAN, aadhar card, share certificate & Form ISR-1, ISR-2 in PDF or JPEG format (upto 1
MB). On submission of the shareholders details an OTP will be received by the shareholder
which needs to be entered in the link for verification.
For Permanent Registration of e-mail addresses for shareholders holding shares in demat
form:
It is clarified that for permanent registration of e-mail address, the members are
requested to register their e-mail address, in respect of demat holdings with the
respective Depository Participant by following the procedure prescribed by the Depository
Participant.
For Temporary Registration of e-mail addresses for shareholders holding shares in demat
form:
The members of the Company holding equity shares of the Company in Demat Form and who
have not registered their e-mail addresses may temporarily get their e-mail addresses
registered with Link Intime India Pvt. Ltd. by clicking the link:
https://liiplweb.linkintime. co.in/EmailReg/Email Register.html and follow the
registration process as guided therein. The members are requested to provide details such
as name, DPID, Client ID/PAN, mobile number and e-mail address and also upload the image
of CML, PAN, aadhar card & Form ISR-1 in PDF or JPEG format (upto 1 MB). On submission
of the shareholders details an OTP will be received by the shareholder which needs to be
entered in the link for verification.
In case of any queries, shareholder may write to rnt.helpdesk@linkintime.co.in.
under Help section or call on Tel no.: 022-49186000;
Those shareholders who have already registered their e-mail addresses are requested to
keep their e-mail addresses validated with their Depository Participants/ RTA to enable
servicing of communication and documents electronically. In case of any queries,
shareholder may write either to the Company at investors@naukri.com or to the RTA at
aforesaid e-mail id provided.
Registering e-mail address will help in better communication between the Company and
you as an esteemed stakeholder and most importantly will reduce use of paper also
contributing towards green environment.
The Company is providing e-voting facility to all members to enable them to cast their
votes electronically on all resolutions set forth in the AGM Notice. This is pursuant to
Section 108 of the Act read with relevant rules thereon. The instructions for e-voting are
provided in the Notice of the AGM.
6. HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
Info Edge remains primarily a people driven organisation pursuing businesses that have
strong human engagement. Your Company considers people as its biggest assets and
'Believing in People' is at the heart of its human resource strategy. Human resources
management at Info Edge goes beyond the set boundaries of compensation, performance
reviews and development. Your Company has put concerted efforts in talent management and
succession planning practices, strong performance management and learning and training
initiatives to ensure that your Company consistently develops inspiring, strong and
credible leadership.
Your Company has established an organization structure that is agile and focused on
delivering business results. With regular communication and sustained efforts, it is
ensuring that employees are aligned on common objectives and have the right information on
business evolution.Your Company is dedicated to nurturing an environment of trust and
mutual respect among its employees, where its core values and principles serve as the
cornerstone in all people-related matters.
Through FY24, the Company has added key skills across the functions of Engineering,
Data Science, Marketing, Product, Quality Assurance and Design functions. The campus
recruitment strategy has evolved over the last few years. In addition, Info Edge harnessed
the power of AI to enhance candidate sourcing and seamlessly integrated Zwayam for a more
robust hiring process. Further, the internal job posting program iEvolve champions talent
mobility, while our Bring Your Own Buddy referral initiative has experienced substantial
growth.
At the heart of Company's evolution into a learning organization lies LEAD (Learning
and Engagement for Accelerated Development). LEAD is built upon a robust learning
framework, meticulously aligned with the organizational strategy and bespoke business
requirements. This includes tailored internal and external learning interventions catering
to associates across the organization, Self-Paced Learning like 'iLearn' and peer learning
initiatives like 'Brown Bag series'. Further, the initiatives taken for strengthening
employee engagement includes iSpeak survey and Al-enabled 'Chief Listening Officer' -
Amber. For FY24, the iSpeak Score is at 88% with high cores in areas such as inclusion,
pride at work, safety, clarity of goals, managerial support and communication.
The Info Edge Merit Awards 2023 epitomize the Company's dedication to excellence
through innovation and business impact. It honoured both individual achievements and the
collective triumphs of different teams. Serving as a pinnacle of recognition within Info
Edge, these awards symbolize its unwavering commitment to cultivating an innovative
culture where bold ideas flourish and collaboration thrives.
The Infoedgeway Championship, a first-of-its-kind tournament, served as the crescendo
to the Leadership Principles campaign. Built in-house with the intention of enabling
associates to internalize our 11 Leadership Principles, this simulated business
championship witnessed active participation from over 1,500 associates across two weeks.
The Company participated in the Great Place to Work study conducted by the Great Place
to Work? Institute (GPTWI) for the second time in January 2024. The evaluation included
an exhaustive Employee Survey floated to everyone in the organization and a thorough
Culture Audit to review our People Practices. Basis the study, Info Edge has been
certified by GPTWI as a Great Place to Work second time in a row. This is a special
milestone and an important step towards building a Great Place to Work that continues to
amplify the success of Info Edge as an organization.
THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT THE WORKPLACE (PREVENTION, PROHIBITION AND REDRESSAL)
ACT, 2013
The Company has zero tolerance for sexual harassment at workplace and has adopted a
gender neutral Policy on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment at its workplaces in line
with the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention,
Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 and the Rules made thereunder for prevention and
redressal of complaints of sexual harassment at workplace. The Company has a framework for
employees to report sexual harassment cases at workplace and the process ensures complete
confidentiality of information.
The Company has complied with the provision relating to the constitution of Internal
Complaints Committee (IC Committee) under the Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace
(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The IC Committee includes external
member with relevant experience and majority of the members of the IC Committee are women.
Thorough investigation of each case are conducted by the IC Committee and thereafter
decisions are made. The role of the IC Committee is not restricted to mere redressal of
complaints but also encompasses prevention and prohibition of sexual harassment.
During the FY24, the Company had received 4 (four) complaints on sexual harassment
under the Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and
Redressal) Act, 2013, which were duly investigated and resolved.
PARTICULARS OF EMPLOYEES
The particulars of employees required under Rule 5(2) & (3) of the Companies
(Appointment and Remuneration of the Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 framed under the
Act forms part of this Report. However, pursuant to provisions of Section 136 of the Act,
the Annual Report excluding the aforesaid information, is being sent to all the members of
the Company and others entitled thereto. Any member interested in obtaining such
particulars may write to the Company Secretary of the Company. The same shall also be
available for inspection by members at the Registered Office of your Company.
COMPANY'S POLICY RELATING TO REMUNERATION FOR DIRECTORS, KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL AND
OTHER EMPLOYEES
The Company's Policy relating to Remuneration for Directors, Key Managerial Personnel
and other Employees has been explained in the Report on Corporate Governance section
forming part of this Annual Report. The Remuneration policy of the Company is available on
Company's website at http://www.infoedge.in/pdfs/ Remuneration-Policy.pdf
MANAGERIAL REMUNERATION
Ratio of the remuneration of each director to the median remuneration of the employees
of the Company for the Financial Year is given below:
Name of Director |
Designation |
% increase in remuneration in the FY24 |
Ratio of Remuneration of each Director/ to median remuneration of
employees |
Mr. Kapil Kapoor |
Non-Executive Chairman |
(44.44%) |
1.06 |
Mr. Sanjeev Bikhchandani |
Promoter, Executive Vice-Chairman |
0.77%* |
29.98 |
Mr. Hitesh Oberoi |
Promoter, Managing Director & CEO |
(1.12%)* |
28.50 |
Mr. Chintan Thakkar |
Whole-time Director & CFO |
10.35%*$ |
38.52 |
Mr. Pawan Goyal |
Whole-time Director & Chief Business Officer - Naukri |
N.A. |
41.30 |
Mr. Sharad Malik |
Independent Director |
(32.28%) |
2.28 |
Mr. Ashish Gupta |
Independent Director |
(20.59%) |
1.43 |
Ms. Geeta Mathur |
Independent Director |
(25.98%) |
2.49 |
Ms. Aruna Sundararajan |
Independent Director |
1,191.67%? |
1.37 |
Mr. Arindam Kumar Bhattacharya |
Independent Director |
1,416.67%? |
1.60 |
Mr. Sanjiv Sachar |
Independent Director |
N.A. |
0.66 |
Mr. Saurabh Srivastava |
Non-Executive Director |
(66.23%,)* |
1.35 |
Mr. Naresh Gupta |
Non-Executive Director |
(58.20%)* |
1.35 |
Ms. Bala C Deshpande |
Non-Executive Director |
(88.89%)* |
0.21 |
Ms. Jaya Bhatia |
Company Secretary |
52.14%$ |
7.22 |
Note 1: Details of remuneration paid to Directors for FY24 are disclosed in the
Corporate Governance Report forming part of this Annual Report. Note 2: The
Non-Executive/Independent Directors are paid sitting fees & commission on the basis of
their attendance at the Board/Committee/ Strategic Meetings. Any variation highlighted
above in remuneration of these Directors is on account of number of meetings held or
attended.
Note 3: Mr. Pawan Goyal was appointed as Whole-time Director of the Company with effect
from April 30, 2023, therefore, disclosure regarding percentage increase in his
remuneration during the financial year is not applicable for FY24. Further, remuneration
of Mr. Pawan Goyal considered above for calculation of ratio, includes remuneration paid
to him for the entire FY24.
Note 4: Since Mr. Sanjiv Sachar was appointed as Independent Director with effect from
July 15, 2023, disclosure regarding percentage increase in his remuneration during the
financial year is not applicable for FY24.
@ The exponential increase in remuneration of Ms. Aruna Sundararajan and Mr. Arindam
Kumar Bhattacharya is due to their appointment as Independent Directors with effect from
February 11,2023, due to which they were eligible for attending 1 (one) Board meeting in
the FY23.
* The remuneration paid to the Executive Directors of the Company includes the amount
of Bonus paid for the previous year.
$ Remuneration of Mr. Chintan Thakkar and Ms. Jaya Bhatia considered for calculating
increase above does not include employee share based payment.
* Mr. Saurabh Srivastava, Mr. Naresh Gupta and Ms. Bala C Deshpande ceased to be
Directors of the Company upon completion of their respective term as Non-Executive
Director on August 12,2023.
THE PERCENTAGE INCREASE IN THE MEDIAN REMUNERATION OF EMPLOYEES IN THE FINANCIAL YEAR
The percentage increase in the median remuneration of the employees of the Company
during the financial year is 13.20% as compared to last year.
THE NUMBER OF PERMANENT EMPLOYEES ON THE ROLLS OF THE COMPANY 5,71 2
AVERAGE PERCENTILE INCREASE ALREADY MADE IN THE SALARIES OF THE EMPLOYEES OTHER THAN
THE MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL IN THE LAST FINANCIAL YEAR AND ITS COMPARISON WITH THE PERCENTILE
INCREASE IN THE MANAGERIAL REMUNERATION AND JUSTIFICATION THEREOF AND POINT OUT IF THERE
ARE ANY EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES FOR INCREASE IN MANAGERIAL REMUNERATION
The average increase in salaries of employees other than managerial personnel in FY24
was around 8.6% in comparison with percentile increase in salaries of managerial personnel
of around 47.94%.
The above percentile increase in salaries of managerial personnel includes remuneration
paid to Mr. Pawan Goyal for FY24, who was appointed during the year under review.
AFFIRMATION THAT THE REMUNERATION IS AS PER THE REMUNERATION POLICY OF THE COMPANY
It is hereby affirmed that the remuneration paid is as per the Remuneration Policy for
Directors, Key Managerial Personnel and other Employees.
EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION PLAN
Our ESOP schemes help us share wealth with our employees and are part of a
retention-oriented compensation program. They help us meet the dual objective of
motivating key employees and retention while aligning their long-term career goals with
that of the Company.
ESOP-2007 (MODIFIED IN JUNE 2009): This is a SEBI compliant ESOP scheme which was
used to grant stock based compensation to our associates since 2007. This was approved by
passing a special resolution in the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held in March 2007
which was further amended in June 2009 through approval of shareholders by Postal Ballot
by introducing Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)/Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and flexible
pricing of ESOP/SAR Grants. This scheme is not currently used by the Company to make fresh
ESOP/SAR/RSU grants and all options granted under this Scheme have been either exercised
or lapsed.
ESOP-2015: This Scheme was introduced by the Company to provide equity-based
incentives to employees of the Company i.e. the Options granted under the Scheme may be in
the form of ESOPs/SARs/other Share based form of incentives. The Company shall issue a
maximum of 40 Lakh Options exercisable into equity shares of the Company. This scheme is
currently used by the Company to make fresh ESOP/SAR/RSU grants.
The applicable Disclosures as stipulated under Act read with the applicable Rules
framed thereunder and the SEBI Guidelines as on March 31, 2024 with regard to the
Employees' Stock Option Scheme (ESOS) are annexed with this report as Annexure VII.
Certificate(s) from M/s. Chandrasekaran Associates, Company Secretaries with regards to
the implementation of the Company's Employee Stock Option Schemes in line with SEBI (Share
Based Employees Benefits) Regulations, 2014 will be available for inspection in electronic
mode during the Annual General Meeting.
The shares to which Company's ESOP Schemes relates are held by the Trustees on behalf
of Info Edge Employees Stock Option Plan Trust. The individual employees do not have any
claim against the shares held by said ESOP Trust unless they are transferred to their
respective demat accounts upon exercise of options vested in them.
TRANSFER OF UNCLAIMED DIVIDEND AND SHARES TO INVESTOR EDUCATION AND PROTECTION FUND
(IEPF)
Pursuant to Section 124 of the Act first interim dividend for the FY17 and second
interim dividend for the FY17 which remained unpaid/unclaimed for a period of seven years
from the date it was lying in the unpaid dividend account, has been transferred by the
Company to IEPF of the Central Government.
In terms of Section 124(6) of the Act read with Rule 6 of the Investor Education and
Protection Fund Authority (Accounting, Audit, Transfer and Refund) Rules, 2016, (IEPF
Rules) (as amended from time to time) shares on which dividend has not been paid or
claimed by a shareholder for a period of seven consecutive years or more shall be credited
to the Demat Account of Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) within a
period of thirty days of such shares becoming due to be so transferred. Upon transfer of
such shares, all benefits (like dividend, bonus, etc.), if any, accruing on such shares
shall also be credited to such Demat Account and the voting rights on such shares shall
remain frozen till the rightful owner claims the shares. Shares which are transferred to
the Demat Account of IEPFA can be claimed back by the shareholder from IEPFA by following
the procedure prescribed under the aforesaid rules. Therefore, it is in the interest of
shareholders to regularly claim the dividends declared by the Company. In pursuance of the
above provisions, during the FY24, 424 (Four hundred and twenty four) equity shares of the
Company were transferred to the IEPFA.
Further, during the year under review, following dividend amount pertaining to shares
already transferred to IEPFA, was also transferred to IEPF:
Type of Dividend |
Amount transferred (in Rs.) |
FY23 Final Dividend |
70,688 |
FY24 Interim Dividend |
77,480 |
7. DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
In accordance with the provisions of Section 134(3)(c) and 134(5) of the Act, the Board
of Directors confirms that:
a) in the preparation of the Annual Accounts, the applicable accounting standards have
been followed along with proper explanation relating to material departures;
b) the Directors have selected such accounting policies and applied them consistently
and made judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as to give a true and
fair view of the state of affairs of the Company as at March 31, 2024 and of the profit of
the Company for that year;
c) the Directors have taken proper and sufficient care for the maintenance of adequate
accounting records in accordance with the provisions of this Act for safeguarding the
assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities;
d) the Directors have prepared the Annual Accounts on a going concern basis;
e) the Directors have laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the
Company and that such financial controls are adequate and were operating effectively;
f) the Directors have devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions
of all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating effectively.
The Company has complied with the revised Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute
of Company Secretaries of India on Meetings of the Board of Directors and General
Meetings.
APPRECIATION
Your Company's operational efficiency is a direct result of fostering a culture
centered around professionalism, creativity, integrity, and continuous improvement across
all functions and domains. Additionally, the effective utilization of the Company's
resources has been pivotal in ensuring sustainable and profitable growth.
We wish to express our sincere appreciation for the efficient and loyal services
provided by every employee. Their whole-hearted efforts have been instrumental in our
consistent growth. Additionally, we extend our gratitude to our investors, customers,
website visitors, business partners, bankers, and other stakeholders for their unwavering
support and confidence in the Company and its Management. We eagerly anticipate their
continued partnership and support.
|
For and on behalf of Board of Directors |
|
Kapil Kapoor |
Date: May 16, 2024 |
Chairman |
Place: Noida |
DIN: 00178966 |
|