Dear Members,
Your Directors are pleased to present the 24th Annual Report
on the business and operations of Indigo Paints Limited ("the Company/your
Company") together with the Audited Financial Statements (standalone and
consolidated) for the Financial Year ended March 31, 2024.
FINANCIAL RESULTS AND STATE OF COMPANY AFFAIRS
The key highlights of the financial results of your Company for the
financial year ended March 31, 2024 and comparison with the previous financial year ended
March 31, 2023 are summarised below:
|
Standalone |
Consolidated |
Particulars |
Year ended March 31, 2024 |
Year ended March 31, 2023 |
Year ended March 31, 2024 |
Year ended March 31, 2023 |
Revenue from operations |
1,25,486.11 |
1,07,333.43 |
1,30,608.58 |
1,07,333.43 |
Less: Expenses |
1,02,216.32 |
89,180.19 |
1,06,801.72 |
89,180.19 |
EBITDA |
23,269.79 |
18,153.24 |
23,806.86 |
18,153.24 |
Less: |
|
|
|
|
Finance Cost |
159.07 |
137.59 |
212.10 |
137.59 |
Depreciation |
4,617.76 |
3,434.66 |
5, 158.32 |
3,434.66 |
Add: |
|
|
|
|
Other income |
1,342.98 |
1,006.75 |
1,421.64 |
1,006.75 |
Profit before Tax |
19,835.94 |
15,587.74 |
19,858.08 |
15,587.74 |
Less: Tax expenses (including deferred Tax) |
4970.68 |
2,393.80 |
4,975.25 |
2,393.80 |
Profit after Tax |
14,865.26 |
13,193.94 |
14,882.83 |
13,193.94 |
Add/(Less): Total Other Comprehensive Income |
(6.68) |
(2.35) |
1.38 |
(2.35) |
Total Comprehensive Income for the year |
14,858.58 |
13,191.59 |
14,884.21 |
13,191.59 |
OVERVIEW OF COMPANY'S FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Overview of Company's Financial Performance on Standalone basis:
Revenue from Operations of the Company stood at H 1,25,486.11 Lakhs
as against H 1,07,333.43 Lakhs for the previous year, registering a growth of 16.91% in
the revenue.
EBITDA of the Company increased to H 23,269.79 Lakhs as against H
18,153.24 Lakhs for the previous year, registering a growth of 28.19% in EBITDA.
Profit after Tax (PAT) of the Company increased to H 14,865.26
Lakhs as against H 13,193.94 Lakhs for the previous year, registering a growth of 28.58%*
in PAT.
*adjusted for reversal of excess tax provision of H 1,632.99 in
FY 2022-23.
Overview of Company's Financial Performance on Consolidated basis:
Revenue from Operations of the Group stood at H 1,30,608.58
Lakhs as against H 1,07,333.43 Lakhs for the previous year, registering a growth of 21.68%
in the revenue.
EBITDA of the Group increased to H 23,806.86 Lakhs as against H
18,153.24 Lakhs for the previous year, registering a growth of 31.14% in EBITDA.
Profit after Tax (PAT) of the Group increased to H 14,882.83
Lakhs as against H 13,193.94 Lakhs for the previous year, registering a growth of 28.73%*
in PAT.
*adjusted for reversal of excess tax provision of H 1,632.99 in
FY 2022-23.
Major Events:
The Company entered into a Share Purchase and Share Subscription
Agreement and Share Holders Agreement with Apple Chemie India Private Limited
("Subsidiary Company") on April 03, 2023 and acquired 51% Equity shares in the
subsidiary company.
The subsidiary company is operating in the space of Construction
Chemicals and Water Proofing products. The Company has launched retail range of
waterproofing and construction chemical products utilizing know-how from the subsidiary
Company.
The Company's state-of the-art, fully automated manufacturing facility
at Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu has commenced its commercial production on September 18, 2023.
The new manufacturing facility has the capacity to produce over 50,000 KL per annum of
water-based paint products. The state of the art facility is expected to cater to the
rising demand for the Company's products.
The Company has commenced work on establishing a new water based paint
plant of 90,000 KLPA capacity and solvent based paint plant of 12,000 KLPA at Jodhpur,
Rajasthan, which are expected to be operational during FY 2025.
DIVIDEND
The Board of Directors at it's meeting held on May 22, 2024, has
recommended payment of H 3.50/- (Three Rupees and Fifty Paise only) (35%) per equity share
of the face value of H 10/- (Rupees Ten only) each as final dividend for the financial
year ended March 31, 2024. The payment of final dividend is subject to the approval of the
shareholders at the ensuing Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Company.
The aforesaid final dividend is being paid by the Company from its
profits for the financial years under review.
As per the Income-Tax Act, 1961, dividends paid or distributed by the
Company shall be taxable in the hands of the shareholders. Accordingly, the Company makes
the payment of the dividend from time to time after deduction of tax at source.
The dividend recommended is in accordance with the Dividend
Distribution Policy of the Company. The
Dividend Distribution Policy, in terms of Regulation 43A of the
Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)
Regulations, 2015 (Listing Regulations/ SEBI Regulations) is available on the
Company's website: https://indigopaints.com/investors/corporate-governance-2
The dividend pay-out ratio including the proposed final dividend of the
Company would be 11.21%.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
During the year under review, no amount was transferred to General
Reserves by the Company.
CHANGE IN NATURE OF BUSINESS
There is no change in nature of business of your Company.
UTILIZATION OF IPO PROCEEDS
Your Company had appointed ICICI Bank Limited as the Monitoring agency
in terms of regulation 41(2) of the SEBI (Issue of Capital & Disclosure Requirements)
Regulations, 2018, as amended from time to time, to monitor the utilization of the IPO
proceeds. Your Company obtained the monitoring reports from the Monitoring agency every
quarter and disclosed the same with BSE Limited and National Stock Exchange of India
Limited, where the equity shares of the Company are listed.
Out of the IPO proceeds of H 28,711.21 Lakhs, your Company has utilized
the funds as per the below mentioned table as on March 31, 2024:
Sr. No Item Head |
Amount as proposed in offer document |
Amount utilized |
Total unutilized Amount |
1 Funding capital expenditure for the Proposed Expansion |
15,000.00 |
15,000.00 |
00.00 |
2 Purchase of tinting machines and gyro shakers |
5,000.00 |
5,000.00 |
00.00 |
3 Repayment/prepayment of certain borrowings of our Company |
2,500.00 |
2,500.00 |
00.00 |
4 General corporate purposes |
6,211.21 |
6,211.21 |
00.00 |
Total |
28,711.21 |
28,711.21 |
00.00 |
The Monitoring Agency Reports are available at the Company's
website at https://indigopaints.com/investors/ corporate-governance-2.
As on the date of this report, your Company has utilized the entire
amount from the IPO proceeds resulting in closure of the Monitoring Bank Account held with
ICICI Bank Limited.
Your directors confirm that there have been no deviations from the
objects as mentioned in the Company's prospectus dated January 25, 2021.
SHARE CAPITAL
During the year under review there was no change in the authorised
capital of the Company. However, the subscribed and paid up share capital of the Company
was increased from 4,75,88,282 number of equity shares amounting to H 47,58,82,820/- to
4,76,20,987 number of equity shares amounting to H 47,62,09,870/-.
The above mentioned increase was due to the allotment of additional
shares vide exercise of options by the eligible employees under the Indigo Paints- Stock
Option Scheme, 2019.
EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION SCHEME
In order to enable the employees to participate in the future growth
and to attract and retain talent, the Company has adopted the "Indigo Paints- Stock
Option Scheme, 2019" ("ESOS, 2019").
The Members of the Company, in the Annual General Meeting held dated
September 02, 2021, had ratified the ESOS 2019, owing to the requirements under Securities
and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations,
2021 and authorised the Board to grant, allot stock options to the eligible employees of
the Company.
As per Rule 12 of the Companies (Share Capital and Debenture) Rules,
2014 the disclosures are as follows:
Sr. No Particulars |
ESOS 2019 |
1 Number of Options granted |
43,500 |
2 Exercise price or Pricing formula (H) |
10 |
3 Number of Options vested and exercisable |
30,270 |
4 Number of Options exercised |
32,705 |
5 Total number of shares arising out of exercise of Options |
32,705 |
6 Number of Options lapsed (includes forfeited and lapsed
options) |
8,615 |
7 Variation in the terms of the Options |
- |
8 Money realized by exercise of Options (H ) |
3,27,050 |
9 Total number of Options in force |
1,19,875 |
10 Employee wise details of options granted to -
|
Name |
Options granted |
A Senior Management Personnel's and Key Managerial
Personnel's |
|
|
B Any other employee who receives a grant in any one year of
option amounting to 5% or more of options granted during the year |
NA |
|
C Identified employees who were granted options, during any
one year, equal to or exceeding 1% of the issued capital (excluding outstanding warrants
and conversions) of the company at the time of grant. |
|
|
The applicable disclosures as stipulated under SEBI (Share Based
Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity)Regulations,2021areprovided in Annexure A to
this Report and are available on the Company's website at
https://indigopaints.com/investors/annual-reports/ The certificate from the Secretarial
Auditor on the implementation of the 2021 Plan in accordance with Regulation 13 of the
SEBI SBEB Regulations, has been uploaded on the Company's website at
https://indigopaints.com/investors/annual-reports. The certificate will also be available
for electronic inspection by the members during the AGM of the Company.
The Board in its Meeting held on July 13, 2024 has approved the new
scheme of ESOP, ESOS 2024 by creating further ESOP Pool with 2,50,000/- shares. The same
is put forward to the shareholders for their approval in ensuing Annual General Meeting.
These equity-based compensation is considered to be an integral part of
employee compensation across sectors which enables alignment of personal goals of the
employees with organizational objectives by participating in the ownership of the Company
through stock-based compensation scheme. The equity-based compensation plans are an
effective tool to reward and retain the talents working with the Company.
CREDIT RATING
As your Company has not availed any credit facility, there was no
requirement for obtaining any credit rating.
INVESTOR EDUCATION AND PROTECTION FUND (IEPF)
During the year under review, the Company had not transferred any
amount or Shares to the Investor Education and Protection Fund.
HUMAN RESOURCES & EMPLOYEE RELATIONS
Overview
The Company's Human Resources division concentrated on efficient plan
execution throughout the year under review by utilizing its skilled staff. The HR
department of the company's main focus during the year was handling the benefits
administration and employee life cycle. Additionally, to focus on rebuilding the complete
support system for assuring the health and wellbeing of employees. Steps including
workforce planning, digitalization of HR systems, enhancement of medical facilities,
health monitoring, and ongoing communication were necessary for this. These actions
increased employee confidence, and the workers reciprocated by offering their entire
support by adjusting to the new working circumstances and schedules.
Employee Performance & Engagement
Toensurethecomprehensivewell-beingofouremployeesfinancial,
social, mental, and physicalwe offer a wide array of benefits throughout their
tenure with the company. To attract and retain skilled and experienced personnel, we have
implemented an employee stock options policy.
A 360-degree collective feedback system is in place to nurture and
develop our talent pipeline, aligning closely with our pay structure and promotion
processes. Our People Review process identifies development opportunities and charts
growth paths for our managerial talent, coupled with regular performance feedback for all
staff. This approach has enhanced interactions between management and employees.
This year, we conducted an organization-wide employee pulse survey,
assessing various aspects such as workplace environment, leadership, career goals,
teamwork, rewards, and recognition. Based on the survey results, numerous initiatives were
launched to address identified gaps.
Employee Welfare and Policies
Understanding what engages and motivates our employees, as well as
their perspectives on the workplace, is vital. Therefore, we promote open and frequent
communication between managers and their teams, conduct regular surveys, and establish a
framework that encourages employees to voice concerns, provide feedback, and suggest
improvements.
Our comprehensive HR policy framework includes maternity benefits,
employee and family insurance, and flexible scheduling to help employees maintain a
work-life balance. Monthly workshops are held to educate staff on their physical, mental,
and overall well-being.
Fostering diversity and inclusion at work, we leverage the varied
viewpoints and perspectives of a diverse workforce in terms of age, gender, and race,
which drives innovation. Our commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity, Equal Pay, and
Conditions of Employment Policies ensures no discrimination based on gender, race,
religion, caste, creed, or similar factors. Hiring, promotions, and performance reviews
are solely merit-based.
Digital Transformation
The company embarked on a digital transformation of its human resources
management system, aiming for innovation, agility, operational excellence, and added value
for employees. A new mobile app allows employees to manage holiday dates, documents,
payslips, and other notifications and events seamlessly.
Additionally, an online expense management module has been introduced
to enable digital expense recording. By focusing on people analytics, we measure the
effectiveness of HR programs and derive insights for making informed business decisions
based on trends, patterns, and feedback.
Identification and Nurturing of Star Performers
Identifying and nurturing star performers is a key focus of our HR
strategy. We ensure these high-potential employees are aligned with career trajectories
that match their strengths and aspirations. By providing tailored development plans and
opportunities, we guide them towards leadership roles and critical positions within the
company. Regular reviews and mentorship programs are in place to support their continuous
growth.
Building Talent
We take pride in our legacy of developing leaders from within the
company, with many senior positions filled by individuals who have built their careers
here. The management team is dedicated to robust succession planning at all levels. A
comprehensive leadership development initiative is underway to identify, promote, and
retain high potential employees across the sector. Our structured recruitment process
attracts the right talent at every level. We utilize diverse approaches, including social
media, campus participation, and job boards, to engage entry-level candidates, offering a
genuine value proposition. We emphasize internal mobility to maintain expertise and
experience, providing attractive career opportunities and turning necessary restructurings
into growth opportunities.
Employee and Leadership Development
Our company is committed to helping employees develop the knowledge,
skills, and abilities needed for long-term success, encouraging professional development
throughout their careers. We provide structured training programs to enhance efficiency
and skills. To cultivate future leaders, we offer cross-functional programs aimed at
developing management and leadership skills. These programs are designed to lead the
organization through change, build teams, manage performance, and equip employees with the
qualities essential for business success, in line with our corporate strategy, values, and
beliefs.
Recruitment Strategy and Retention Policies We have developed a
comprehensive recruitment strategy that aligns with our business objectives and attracts
top talent. By leveraging social media, campus engagement, and job boards, we reach a
diverse pool of candidates. Our retention policies, including competitive appraisals and
career development opportunities, ensure we retain our valuable workforce. We continuously
refine these strategies to meet evolving industry standards and employee expectations.
Employee Relations & Compliance
We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment in the
workplace, adhering to the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
(Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013. All our facilities and offices have
Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) to address and resolve complaints related to sexual
harassment.
Employee Handbook and Accessibility
To enhance the employee experience and ease of access to essential
information, we have developed a detailed and concise employee handbook. This resource
provides clear guidance on company policies, procedures, and expectations, making it
easier for employees to navigate their roles and responsibilities. The handbook is readily
accessible through our digital platforms.
By focusing on these strategic HR initiatives, we continue to foster a
supportive and progressive work environment, ensuring the well-being and professional
growth of our employees.
DIRECTORS & KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
The appointment and remuneration of Directors and Key Managerial
Personnel are governed by applicable provisions of Companies Act and Listing Regulations
and the Policy devised by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee of your Company. The
terms of reference of Nomination and Remuneration Policy are contained in the Corporate
Governance Section of the Annual Report.
Your Company's Board comprises of the following Directors and Key
Managerial Personnel as on March 31, 2024:
Sr. No Name of the Director &
KMP |
Designation |
1. Mr. Hemant Kamala Jalan |
Chairman and Managing Director |
2. Ms. Anita Hemant Jalan* |
Executive Director |
3. Mr. Narayanankutty Kottiedath Venugopal |
Executive Director |
4. Ms. Ashwini Deshpande |
Independent Director |
5. Mr. Sunil Badriprasad Goyal |
Independent Director |
6. Mr. Praveen Kumar Tripathi |
Independent Director |
7. Mr. Ravi Nigam |
Independent Director |
8. Ms. Sakshi Vijay Chopra |
Non-Executive Nominee Director |
9. Ms. Dayeeta Shrinivas Gokhale |
Company Secretary & Compliance Officer |
10. Mr. Chetan Bhalchandra Humane |
Chief Financial Officer |
The constitution of the Board of the Company is in accordance with
Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation 17 of the SEBI (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.
Further, in terms of the regulatory requirements, the name of every
Independent Director is to be registered in the online database of Independent Directors
maintained by Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs, Manesar ("IICA").
Accordingly, the Independent Directors of the Company have registered themselves with the
IICA for the said purpose.
The Board had re-appointed, Mr. Sunil Goyal (DIN: 00503570) as an
Independent Director for the further term of 5 consecutive years, in its meeting held on
May 22, 2024 based on the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee, subject
to approval of shareholders of the Company in ensuing Annual General Meeting. He is a
Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, is the Founder and Managing
Partner of Kreston SGCO Advisors LLP and the Founder and Mentor of SGCO & Co.,
Chartered Accountants, a well-known accountancy firm based in Mumbai. He is also the
Chairman & Managing Director of Ladderup Group engaged in financial services. He leads
a team of more than 300 professionals in his group and is a former member of the Global
Board of Kreston Global, UK, headquartered in London. He has also served as the Chairman
of WIRC of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) with 35 years of
experience. He specialises in the field of financial and business consultancy with core
strengths in fund raising, business restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, strategic
alliances and capital markets. He is also on the Boards of other reputed companies. His
rich experience as an entrepreneur has immensely helped the Company in the current term as
an Independent Director.
The Board had re-appointed, Mr. Praveen Tripathi (DIN:
03154381)asanIndependentDirectorforthefurthertermof5 consecutive years, in its meeting
held on May 22, 2024 based on the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee,
subject to approval of shareholders of the Company. Mr. Tripathi has vast experience in
sectors such as media planning and advertising, media and market research, brand
consulting, communication planning, data analytics and financial services. He is currently
serving as a Board Member on the board of companies including Magic9 Media & Consumer
Knowledge Private Limited and Indevia Accounting Private Limited. He has previously served
as an Independent Director with Motilal Oswal Financial Services Limited and Kisan
Mouldings Pvt Ltd. He has previously held senior leadership roles in Pidilite Industries
Limited, Zenith Optimedia Asia, Starcom India, Chaitra Leo Burnett Private Limited, MARG
Marketing & Research Group Private Limited and Lowe Lintas. He is currently a member
of Awareness and Communications Strategy Advisory Council of UID Authority of India (April
2023 to till date). He has been a member of the Awareness and Communication Strategy
Advisory Council and the Advisory Committee for Information, Education and Communication
(IEC) strategy implementation, each constituted by the Unique Identification Authority of
India, Government of India. He has been a member TAM Transparency Panel constituted by TAM
Media Research Private Limited and the President of the Market Research Society of India.
His rich experience as an entrepreneur has immensely helped the Company in the current
term as an Independent Director.
KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL (KMP):
During the year under review, Ms. Dayeeta Shrinivas Gokhale was
appointed as Company Secretary and Compliance Officer w.e.f June 29, 2023 in place of
former Company Secretary, Mr. Sujoy Sudipta Bose, who had resigned with effect from
closure of business hours on June 28, 2023.
In terms of the Companies Act, 2013, the following are the KMPs of the
Company as on March 31, 2024:
- Mr. Hemant Kamala Jalan- Managing Director
- Mr. Chetan Bhalchandra Humane- Chief Financial Officer
- Ms. Dayeeta Gokhale- Company Secretary
DIRECTORS RETIRING BY ROTATION
Mr. Narayanankutty Kottiedath Venugopal, Executive Director, is liable
to retire by rotation and being eligible for re-appointment at the ensuing Annual General
Meeting ("AGM") of your Company, has offered himself for reappointment. His
details as required under the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)
Regulations, 2015 are contained in the accompanying Notice convening the ensuing AGM of
your Company.
DECLARATION FROM INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
The Company has received necessary declaration from each independent
director under Section 149(7) of the Companies Act,2013, that he / she meets the criteria
of independence laid down in Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation 25
of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.
BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Your Board of Directors met 5 (five) times during the financial year
2023-24. The details of the meetings and the attendance of the Directors are mentioned in
the Corporate Governance Report.
The Board of Directors of your Company have formed various Committees,
as per the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and as per SEBI (Listing Obligations and
Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 and as a part of the best corporate governance
practices, the terms of reference and the constitution of these Committees is in
compliance with the applicable laws and to ensure focused attention on business and for
better governance and accountability. The constituted Committees are as below:
a) Audit Committee;
b) Nomination and Remuneration Committee;
c) Stakeholders Relationship Committee;
d) Corporate Social Responsibility Committee;
e) Risk Management Committee; and
f ) ESG Committee
The details with respect to the composition, terms of reference, number
of meetings held and business transacted by the aforesaid Committees are given in the
"Corporate Governance Report" of the Company which is presented in a separate
section and forms a part of the Annual Report of the Company.
During the year under review, a separate meeting of the Independent
Directors was held on March 28, 2024, with no participation of Non- Independent Directors
or the Management of the Company. The Independent Directors had discussed and reviewed the
performance of the Non-Independent Directors and the Board as a whole and also assessed
the quality, quantity and timeliness of the flow of information between the Management and
the Board, which is necessary for the Board to effectively and reasonably perform its
duties.
BOARD EVALUATION
In terms of requirements of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Rules
issued thereunder and SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) 2015, the
Board is required to carry out the annual performance evaluation of the Board of Directors
as a whole, Committees of the Board and individual Directors.
Your Company understands the requirements of an effective Board
Evaluation process and accordingly conducts the Performance Evaluation in respect of the
following:
i. Board of Directors as a whole.
ii. Committees of the Board.
iii. Individual Directors including the Chairperson of the Board of Directors.
In compliance with the requirements of the provisions of Section 178 of
the Companies Act, 2013, SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) 2015 and
the Guidance Note on Board Evaluation issued by SEBI, your Company has carried out a
Performance Evaluation process internally for the Board/Committees of the Board/
individual directors including the Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the financial
year ended March 31, 2024.
The Board on the recommendation of Nomination
& Remuneration Committee has adopted the Remuneration and
Evaluation Policy' for selection, appointment and remuneration of Directors and
Senior Management Personnel including criteria for determining qualifications, positive
attributes, independence of a director and other matters as required by the Companies Act,
2013. Necessary diversity in the board was ensured. Detailed policy is available at
Company's website https://indigopaints.com/investors/corporate-governance-2/
The key objectives of conducting the Board Evaluation process were to
ensure that the Board and various Committees of the Board have appropriate composition of
Directors and they have been functioning collectively to achieve common business goals of
your Company. Similarly, the key objective of conducting performance evaluation of the
Directors through individual assessment and peer assessment was to ascertain if the
Directors actively participate in the Board/Committee Meetings and contribute to achieve
the common business goals of the Company.
The Directors carry out the aforesaid Performance Evaluation in a
confidential manner and provide their feedback on a rating scale of 1-5.
Also, the Board was of the opinion that the directors and Board
collectively stand the highest level of integrity and all members of the Board had
specified skill set and experience required for the Company.
FAMILIARISATION PROGRAMME
Pursuant to the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)
2015, the Company has worked out a Familiarisation Programme for the Independent
Directors, with a view to familiarise them with their role, rights and responsibilities in
the Company, nature of Industry in which the Company operates, business model of the
Company etc. Through the Familiarisation Programme, the Company apprises the Independent
directors about the business model, corporate strategy, business plans, finance human
resources, technology, quality, facilities, risk management strategy, governance policies
and operations of the Company. Details of Familiarisation Programme of Independent
Directors with the Company are available on the website of the Company https://indigopaints.com/investors/corporate-governance-2/.
SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES, ASSOCIATES & JOINT VENTURES
The Company has one subsidiary Company as on March 31, 2024.
The Company had acquired 51% Equity stake in Apple Chemie India Private
Limited ("Subsidiary Company") w.e.f April 03, 2023. Pursuant to the provisions
of Section 129(3) of the Act, a statement containing the salient features of financial
statements of the Company's subsidiaries in Form No. AOC-1 is attached in Annexure B
to this Board Report.
The Company does not have a material subsidiary.
RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In accordance with the provisions of Section 188 of Companies Act, 2013
and Regulation 23 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations,
2015, your Company has a Policy on Related-Party Transactions which can be viewed at
https://indigopaints. com/investors/corporate-governance-2/
All transactions with related parties were reviewed and approved by the
Audit Committee and were in accordance with the Policy on dealing with materiality of
related party transactions.
All contracts/arrangements/transactions entered into by the Company
during the year under review with related parties were in the ordinary course of business
and on arm's length basis in terms of the provisions of the Act.
Further, there are no contracts or arrangements entered into under
Section 188(1) of the Act, hence no justification has been separately provided in that
regard.
The details of the related party transactions as per Ind AS-24 on
Related Party Disclosures are set out in Note No. 28 to the standalone financial
statements of the Company.
DEPOSITS
No deposit within the meaning of Section 73 and 74 of the Act read with
the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014 have been accepted by your Company
during the year under review.
PARTICULARS OF LOANS, GUARANTEES OR INVESTMENTS
No loans or investments have been made by the Company during the
financial year March 31, 2024.
However, the Company has provided guarantee upto H 1,800 Lakh to its
subsidiary Company.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
The Accounting Treatment is in line with the applicable Indian
Accounting Standards (IND-AS) as recommended by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of
India (ICAI) and prescribed by the Central Government.
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs ("MCA") on August 5, 2022
had amended Rule 3 of Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 relating to maintenance of
electronic books of account and other relevant books and papers w.e.f April 01, 2023.
Your Company confirms that it is in compliance with the requirement of
the above amended rule subject to the details mentioned in Note No. 43 & 44 of
Standalone Financial Statements.
AUDITORS
(a) Statutory Auditors:
In accordance with the provisions of section 139 of the Companies Act
2013 and the rules made thereunder M/s. SRBC & Co LLP. Chartered Accountants, bearing
FRN 324982E/E300003 were appointed as the statutory auditors of the Company, for a period
of five years at the 19th Annual General Meeting held on 30th
September, 2019.
The Auditors have issued an unmodified opinion on audited financial
statements of the Company for the year ended March 31, 2024. The Report given by the
Auditors on the financial statements of the Company is part of the Annual Report. There
has been no qualification, reservation, adverse remark or disclaimer given by the Auditors
in their Report.
The term of appointment of SRBC and Co., LLP, as
Statutory Auditors will come to an end at the conclusion of the ensuing
Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Company. The Board in it's Meeting held on May
22, 2024 has appointed M/s. Price Waterhouse Chartered Accountants LLP, Chartered
Accountants, as the Statutory Auditors for a term of five years i.e. from the date of the
ensuing AGM to be held for the financial year 2023-24 till the conclusion of the AGM to be
held for the financial year 2028-29, on the recommendation by the Audit Committee pursuant
to Section 177 of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation 18(3) read with Schedule II, Part
C of SEBI Regulations, 2015 and their appointment is further recommended to the
Shareholders for their approval.
M/s. Price Waterhouse Chartered Accountants LLP has confirmed their
eligibility and independence criteria.
(b) Cost Auditors:
Your Company is not required to maintain cost records as specified
under Section 148(1) of the Companies Act, 2013, and hence, no cost auditors have been
appointed.
(c) Secretarial Auditors:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Companies Act, 2013
read with the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014
and Regulation 24A of SEBI Listing Regulations, Mr. Sushant Kulkarni, Designated Partner
of M/s. ARKS and Co LLP, Company Secretaries, (formerly know as ARKS & Associates) to
undertake Secretarial Audit of the Company for the financial year 2023-24. The report of
the Secretarial Auditor in the prescribed Form MR-3 is annexed to this report as Annexure
C.
The Company has filed the Secretarial Compliance Report, issued by Mr.
Sushant Kulkarni, as on March 31, 2024 on both the Stock Exchanges of the Company pursuant
to Regulation 24A of the Listing Regulations.
The secretarial auditor's report has no qualifications for the
financial year 2023-24.
The Board of directors, in its meeting held on May 22, 2024, on the
recommendation of the Audit Committee has appointed Mr. Sushant Kulkarni, Designated
Partner of M/s. ARKS and Co LLP, Company Secretaries as Secretarial Auditor of the Company
to undertake Secretarial Audit of the Company for the financial year 2024-25.
As required by Schedule V of the Listing Regulations, the
Auditor's Certificate on Corporate Governance received from Mr. Sushant Kulkarni is
annexed to the Report on Corporate Governance forming part of the Annual Report.
(d) Internal Auditors:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 of the Companies Act, 2013
and The Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, Mr. Srihari Santhakumar, General
Manager-Finance, was appointed by the Board of Directors to conduct internal audit of your
Company for the financial year 2023-24.
The Board of directors, in its meeting held on May 22, 2024, has
appointed M/s. DKV & Associates, as Internal Auditor of the Company for the financial
year 2024-25.
INSTANCES OF FRAUD, IF ANY, REPORTED BY THE AUDITORS
During the year under review, the Statutory Auditors has not reported
any instances of fraud committed in the Company by its officers or employees to the Audit
Committee under section 143(12) and Rule 13 of the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules,
2014 of the Companies Act, 2013.
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Pursuant to Section 134(5) of the Act, the Board of Directors, to the
best of its knowledge and ability, confirm that:
a. The Annual Accounts have been prepared in conformity with the
applicable Accounting Standards and there are no material departures;
b. They 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 affairs of the Company at the end of Financial Year
2023-2024 and of the profit for that period;
c. Proper and sufficient care has been taken and that adequate
accounting records have been maintained in accordance with the provisions of the Act for
safeguarding the assets of the Company; and for prevention and detection of fraud and
other irregularities;
d. The Annual Accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis;
e. The internal financial controls laid down by the Company were
adequate and operating effectively; and
f. The systems devised to ensure compliance with the provisions of all
applicable laws were adequate and operating effectively.
RISK AND CONTROL
Through the Risk Management Committee, the Board of Directors oversees
your Company's Risk Management.
Risk Management Policy
Your Company has adopted a Risk Management Policy wherein all material
risks faced by the Company are identified and assessed by the domain heads. The Company
has formed a Risk Management Committee and formed the Policy on the Risk Management which
defines the Company's approach towards risk management and includes collective
identification of risks impacting the Company's business its process of
identification and mitigation of such risks. The Risk Management Policy is uploaded on the
website of the Company and can be viewed through the following web link:
https://indigopaints. com/investors/corporate-governance-2/
During the year under review, the Company has also reviewed the Policy
on Risk Management.
Internal Control Systems
Your Company is committed in maintaining the highest standards of
internal controls. We have deployed controls through appropriate policies, procedures and
implemented a robust Internal Financial Control system that encompasses the following:
- Key processes affecting the reliability of the Company's financial reporting
together with the required controls
- Periodic testing of controls to check their operational effectiveness
- Prompt implementation of remedial action plans arising out of tests conducted
- Regular follow-up of these action plans by senior management
In addition, the Internal Auditor performs periodic audits in
accordance with the pre-approved plan. He reports on the adequacy and effectiveness of the
internal control systems and provides recommendations for improvements.
Audit findings along with management response are shared with the Audit
Committee. Status of action plans are also presented to the Audit Committee which reviews
the steps taken by the management to ensure that there are adequate controls in design and
operation.
The Certificate provided by Managing Director and Chief Financial
Officer in the Corporate Governance Report discusses the adequacy of the internal control
systems and procedures.
DETAILS OF APPLICATION MADE OR ANY PROCEEDING PENDING UNDER THE
INSOLVENCY AND BANKRUPTCY CODE, 2016 (31 OF 2016) DURING THE YEAR
Your Company confirms that there has been no application or any
proceedings pending under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 ("the Code")
during the year under review. Your Company further confirms there are no past applications
or proceeding under the Code.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE
EARNINGS AND OUTGO
As required under Section 134(3)(m) of the Companies Act, 2013 read
with Rule 8 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, the relevant data pertaining to
conservation of energy, technology absorption and foreign exchange earnings and outgo is
given as below:
A. Energy conservation measures taken: i) Started installation of
20 kw of renewable energy (solar panels) at Pune Office. ii) undertaken energy audit at
Kochi and Jodhpur factories. iii) Installed/replaced energy efficient equipment, motors,
lightings etc. as recommended in the energy audit.
B. Technology Absorption:
Your Company focuses greatly on Research and Development (R&D) for
developing innovative products for its consumers. R&D is a continuous activity to
create differentiated products so as to maintain the technological edge in the market.
The natures of activities carried out by R&D team are as follows:
i) Offering premium product with multifunctional use. ii) Upgrading our current products
to meet the needs of the consumer. iii) Value generation via formula optimization, new
sourcing, process efficiency and usage of alternative raw material to enhance
profitability. iv) Development of new lab testing methods for faster approval of raw
materials. v) Continuous benchmarking of our product with other market players.
New product developed in the financial year 2023-24 is as follows:
- Damp Seal Primer
- Aquashield
- Superseal
- Polyrepair
- Dampstop 2K
- Crack Heal Paste
C. The foreign exchange earnings and outgo during the reporting period
is as under:
FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS AND OUTGO |
|
(in Rupees lakhs) |
|
Foreign exchange inflows |
- |
Foreign exchange outflows |
6175.21 |
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR)
Your Company's CSR Policy statement and annual report on the CSR
activities undertaken during the financial year ended March 31, 2024, in accordance with
Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 and Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility
Policy) Rules, 2014 are annexed to this report as Annexure D.
As per the provisions of Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, every
Company falling under the applicability of Corporate Social Responsibility is required to
spend 2% of its average net profits of previous three years on the activities given under
Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013, and CSR policy adopted by the Board of Directors.
The Company has spent a total amount of H 2,35,00,000/- during financial year 2023 -24.
During the year under review your Company has been actively involved in
CSR activities. Your Company has carried out CSR activities in fields of education and
women empowerment. Your Company has spent the requisite amount in line with the CSR Policy
recommendations by the CSR Committee and approval of the Board of Directors of your
Company.
The Composition of CSR Committee and meetings of the CSR Committee held
during the year has been disclosed in the "Corporate Governance Report".
BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING
A Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report ("BRSR")
describing the initiatives taken by the Company from an environment, social and governance
perspective, as required in terms of the provisions of Regulation 34 (2) (f) of SEBI
Regulations, 2015, separately forms a part of the Annual Report of the Company.
PREVENTION OF INSIDER TRADING
Your Company has adopted a Code of Conduct and Code of practices &
procedures for fair disclosure of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information for Prevention
of Insider Trading, in accordance with the requirements of Securities and Exchange Board
of India (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations 2015, as amended from time to time.
The Company Secretary is the Compliance Officer for monitoring
adherence to the said Regulations. The Code is displayed on the Company's website at
www.indigopaints.com/investors
MATERIAL CHANGES AND COMMITMENT AFFECTING FINANCIAL POSITION OF THE
COMPANY
There were no material changes affecting financial position of the
Company between end of the financial year i.e. March 31, 2024 and date of this report.
MATERIAL ORDERS OF REGULATORS/COURTS/ TRIBUNALS
No significant or material orders were passed by the Regulators or
Courts or Tribunals which impact the going concern status and Company's operations in
the future.
SHARE REGISTRAR & TRANSFER AGENT (R&T)
Link Intime India Private Limited is the Registrar and Transfer Agent
of the Company.
PARTICULARS OF EMPLOYEES
Disclosures concerning the remuneration of Directors, KMPs and
employees as per Section 197(12) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(1) of the
Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 as well as
Details of employee remuneration as required under provisions of Section 197(12) of the
Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(2) & 5(3) of Companies (Appointment and
Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 is given in Annexure E to this Report.
Your Directors affirm that the remuneration is as per the remuneration policy of the
Company.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
The Management Discussion and Analysis Report for the year under
review, as stipulated under Regulation 34 of the (Listing Obligations Disclosures
Requirements), Regulations, 2015 is presented in a separate section forming part of the
Annual Report of the Company.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Report on Corporate Governance and Certificate by the Practicing
Company Secretary regarding compliance of the conditions of Corporate Governance as
stipulated in Part C of Schedule V of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015, are provided in a separate section and forms part of the
Annual Report of the Company.
STATEMENT UNDER SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE (PREVENTION,
PROHIBITION & REDRESSAL) ACT, 2013
Your Company has in place a Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy in
line with the requirements of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention,
Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. An Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) has been set
up to redress complaints received regarding sexual harassment. All employees (permanent,
contractual, temporary, trainees) are covered under this Policy.
During the year under review, the Committee had not received any
complaints on sexual harassment.
VIGIL MECHANISM/ WHISTLE BLOWER POLICY
The Company has a Whistle Blower Policy and has established the
necessary vigil mechanism for directors and employees in conformation with Section 177(9)
of the Act and Regulation 22 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)
2015, to report concerns about unethical behavior. It also assures them of the process
that will be observed to address the reported violation. The Policy also lays down the
procedures to be followed for tracking complaints, giving feedback, conducting
investigations and taking disciplinary actions. It also provides assurances and guidelines
on confidentiality of the reporting process and protection from reprisal to complainants.
Any incident that is reported is investigated and suitable action is
taken in line with the Policy.
The Whistle Blower Policy of your Company is available on the website
of the Company and can be viewed at the web link https://indigopaints.com/investors/
corporate-governance-2/
Your Company had not received any complaint under the Whistle Blower
Policy during the year under review.
ANNUAL RETURN
In accordance with Section 92(3) read with Section 134(3)(a) of the Act
and the Companies (Management and Administration) Rules, 2014, the Annual Return of the
Company as of March 31, 2024 in Form MGT-7 is available on the website of the Company www.
indigopaints.com/investors
SECRETARIAL STANDARDS
Your Directors state that applicable Secretarial Standards, i.e., SS-1
and SS-2, relating to Meetings of the Board of Directors' and General
Meetings', respectively, have been duly followed by the Company.
OTHER DISCLOSURES
In terms of the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and
SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, your Company
additionally discloses that, during the year under review no disclosure or reporting is
required with respect to the following:
Issue of equity shares with differential rights as to dividend, voting or
otherwise;
Issue of Sweat equity shares; and
Buyback of shares
Your Company has not taken any debt and therefore, the 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 in accordance
with the disclosure requirements under Rule 8 (5) of Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 is
not applicable.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT
Statements in the Board's Report and the Management Discussion
& Analysis Report describing the Company's objectives, expectations or forecasts
may be forward-looking within the meaning of applicable laws and regulations. Actual
results may differ from those expressed in the statements.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Your Directors wish to convey their gratitude and appreciation to all
the employees of the Company posted at all its locations for their tremendous personal
efforts as well as collective dedication and contribution to the Company's
performance.
Your Directors would also like to thank the employee unions,
shareholders, customers, dealers, suppliers, bankers, Government and all other business
associates, consultants and all the stakeholders for their continued support extended to
the Company and the Management.
|
On behalf of the Board of Directors |
|
For Indigo Paints Limited |
|
Hemant Kamala Jalan |
Place: Pune |
Chairman and Managing Director |
Date: July 13, 2024 |
DIN: 00080942 |
|