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FERMENTA BIOTECH LIMITED Annual Report 2024

Jul 20, 2024

60716_rns_2024-07-20_cf39e0dc-0446-418c-9f23-a83d0758b114.pdf

Annual Report

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Ref: F.No.:808

July 20, 2024

Corporate Relations BSE Limited, Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers, Dalal Street, Fort, Mumbai – 400 001

Dear Sirs,

Sub.: Regulation 34(1) of Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (‘Listing Regulations’) – Submission of Notice of the 72[nd] Annual General Meeting (‘AGM’) and Annual Report for the financial year 2023-24

Ref: Scrip Code: 506414

Pursuant to Regulation 34(1) of Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, we herewith enclose the copy of the Annual Report of the Company for the financial year 2023-24 (along with the Notice of 72[nd] AGM of the Company which is scheduled to be held on Monday, August 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. (IST) which is sent to all the members whose email IDs were registered with the Company / Depository Participant(s). The requirement of sending physical copies of the above to the members has been dispensed with in accordance with relevant circulars issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and the Securities and Exchange Board of India.

The Annual Report of the Company for the financial year 2023-24 along with the Notice of 72[nd] - AGM would be available on the website of the Company at https://fermentabiotech.com/annual report.php

Kindly take the same on record.

Thanking you,

Yours faithfully,

For Fermenta Biotech Limited

SRIKANT Digitally signed by SRIKANT NATH NATH SHARMA Date: 2024.07.20 SHARMA 18:32:12 +05'30'

Srikant Sharma Company Secretary & Vice President (Legal) Membership No. FCS3617

Encl.: as above

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Dream. Develop. Deliver.

Fermenta Biotech Limited | Annual Report 2023- 24

Forward-looking statement

This document contains statements about expected future events and financial and operating results Fermenta Biotech Limited, which are forward looking. By their nature, forward-looking statements require the Company to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. There is a significant risk that the assumptions, predictions and other forward-looking statements will not prove to be accurate. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a number of factors could cause assumptions, actual future results and events to differ materially from those expressed in the forwardlooking statements. Accordingly, this document is subject to the disclaimer and qualified in its entirety by the assumptions, qualifications and risk factors referred to in the management’s discussion and analysis of the Fermenta Biotech Limited Annual Report 2023-24.

Contents

Part 1: What are we

  • 4 Corporate snapshot

  • 6 How we have grown over the years

  • 8 Our presence

  • 10 Our experienced Board of Directors

Part 2: How we performed and our management reviews

Statutory reports

  • 47 Board’s Report and Annexures

  • 57 Corporate Governance Report

Financial statements

  • 103 Standalone accounts

  • 189 Consolidated accounts

  • 272 Notice

  • 14 Our financial performance

  • 16 Chairman’s overview

  • 18 Managing Director’s overview

Part 3: How our Company is enhancing integrated value

  • 22 Integrated value-creation report

  • 24 Stakeholder engagement

  • 26 Business segments

  • 31 Business enablers

  • 37 Corporate social responsibility

  • 38 Management discussion and analysis

Dream. Develop. Deliver.

At Fermenta, we focus on the delivery of superior value across the complete product life cycle.

This ensures multi-stage competitiveness and enhanced stakeholder value.

We create products not just based on what is; we dream of what can be.

We develop an operational discipline that brings concepts to markets.

We deliver long-term solutions to customers the world over.

The complement of these building blocks – Dream. Develop. Deliver. – represents a validated platform directed to enhance value for all our stakeholders in a sustainable way.

PART 1

What we are

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

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Annual Report 2023-24 | 3

C O R P O R A T E S N A P S H O T

Fermenta Biotech Limited

Fermenta Biotech Limited’s (Fermenta / Company) primary activities include manufacturing Vitamin D, producing APIs, enzymes, and offering environmental solutions services.

Drawing upon its extensive expertise in the Vitamin D sector, Fermenta has strengthened its dedication to ‘Enhancing lives through sustainable nutrition’.

The Company is expanding its footprint in the nutrition sector to align with societal demands and global priorities aimed at addressing micronutrient deficiency.

Fermenta has developed the capacity and expertise to produce novel items within its growing range of nutritional ingredients, tailored premixes, and fortified rice kernel.

Our ethos

Our vision

To create a system and nurture it to reach a state of functioning, enabling it to acquire a state of timeless stability and growth.

Our mission

To produce high-quality niche products, used in every line of pharmaceutical, food and fine chemical manufacture, through innovative and concentrated research efforts, becoming the most preferred eco-friendly solutions provider in area of biocatalysis and pharmaceuticals.

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~
350
Global
customers
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Our background

Founded by Dr. D. V. K. Raju in 1951, Fermenta Biotech Limited has created a distinctive recognition in the pharmaceutical, enzyme technology, and environmental solutions industry the world over. Renowned for its adeptness in harmonizing over 70 years of heritage with a progressive outlook, Fermenta commands respect globally.

Our overseas subsidiaries

Fermenta Biotech GmbH (Hamburg, Germany)

Fermenta Biotech GmbH, a fully owned subsidiary of Fermenta Biotech Limited (FBL) India, plays a crucial role in the production of Vitamin D3 500 feed grade powder for animal nutrition in Germany. This initiative enhances the Company’s commitment to effectively serve Western customers. Fermenta Biotech GmbH collaborates with a toll manufacturer in Germany to support feed-grade powder production. By leveraging products manufactured in Europe, the Company aims to capitalize on geographical advantages for the benefit of its global clientele.

Fermenta USA, LLC (Texas, USA)

In 2020, Fermenta Biotech USA, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Fermenta Biotech Limited, acquired a majority stake in AGD Nutrition, LLC, which was subsequently renamed Fermenta USA, LLC (FUSA). Located in Texas, USA, FUSA is enhancing Fermenta’s operations by tapping into the world’s largest

Our state-of-the-art infrastructure

The Company’s manufacturing facilities comprise certified pedigrees, integrating advanced technologies that reinforce its position as a quality-driven leader. Its manufacturing units are strategically located in Kullu (Himachal Pradesh), Dahej (Gujarat), and Pennepalli (Andhra Pradesh). The Company has a well-established research and development center in Thane (Maharashtra).

healthcare market. FUSA specializes in animal nutrition (feed ingredients) and human nutrition (dietary and nutritional supplements). With a robust distribution network spanning North America, FUSA is poised to contribute significantly to the Company’s growth.

Our range of products

Fermenta stands out as a leading global producer of Vitamin D, offering a diverse array of Vitamin D variants utilized in the pharmaceutical, dietary/nutritional supplement, food and beverage, veterinary, feed, and rodenticide sectors. Fermenta also provides a range of nutritional ingredients, such as Vitamin K1, fish oil-derived cholesterol for aquaculture, natural astaxanthin, Vitamin AD2 premix for oil and milk fortification, and fortified rice kernel, among others. Beyond its Vitamin D line, Fermenta manufactures enzymes crucial for ingredient production across multiple industries, including pharmaceuticals, food and fragrance, oleochemicals, biodiesel, leather, and fine chemicals. The Company specializes in providing wastewater management and treatment solutions.

Our global footprint

The Company’s quality products, prompt service, and excellent manufacturing prowess have earned recognition in around 60 countries, addressing more than 350 international clients. Following the launch of subsidiaries in the United States and Germany, the Company has broadbased its global distribution reach including across America and Europe.

Our talent

The Company’s human resource strength stood at 558 as on March 31, 2024.

Our listing

The Company’s equity shares are actively traded on the Bombay Stock Exchange. As of March 31, 2024, the Company’s market capitalization was H445.59 Crore.

Awards and recognitions, FY 2023-24

The Company received award in Institute of Supply Chain Management Awards 2023 for Excellence in Pharma Supply Chain Management.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 5

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How we have grown over the years

1951

Established International Franchises Private Ltd. to focus on the toll manufacturing of pharmaceutical products.

1963

Formed joint venture with Philips Duphar SV.

1967

Commenced the commercial manufacture of Vitamin D.

1986

Established Fermenta Biotech Limited to manufacture enzymes used as catalyst in antibiotic manufacturing.

2002

Demerged the pharmaceutical business to Solvay.

2003

Consolidated all manufcaturing at kullu by expanding the facility to include Vitamin D and other products.

1980

After Solvay acquired Philips Duphar SV, it became the new joint venture partner.

2011

Commenced the second plant for manufacturing Vitamin D at Dahej.

2012

The Company introduced its latest catalyst Fermase PA 850 for Penicillin G Acylase and enhanced the production capacity of Vitamin D resin in Dahej.

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2014

Launched Vitamin D 100 CWD to cater to the food and dietary nutraceutical supplements market.

2016

Enhanced Vitamin D capacity at Dahej. Launched a new version of Vitamin D 500 feed grade powder.

2017

Obtained EDQM’s CEP certification for its Vitamin D manufacturing facility in Dahej; and received FSSC 22000 and BRC food safety approvals for both plants.

2019

Completed the amalgamation of DIL Limited and Fermenta Biotech Limited (combined entity was renamed as Fermenta Biotech Limited). Incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary called Fermenta Biotech GmbH in Germany. Integrated backwards to manufacture cholesterol, the key starting material of Vitamin D.

2020

Introduced fish oil cholesterol for aquaculture nutrition. Established a wholly owned subsidiary named Fermenta Biotech USA LLC in the USA. Acquired a controlling stake in AGD Nutrition, a US-based vitamin company, through Fermenta Biotech USA LLC and renamed it as Fermenta USA LLC.

2021

Launched Vitamin AD2 for oil fortification.

2022

Signed a binding term sheet with Mextech Property Developers LLP for the development of a land parcel in Thane. Fermenta commissioned its fortified rice kernel manufacturing facility in Pennepalli, Andhra Pradesh.

2023

Commissioned its Customised Food Premixing plant in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 7

Fermenta: A widening and

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

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Revenues generated by geography

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FY 2022-23

India: 49.52% Exports: 50.48%

FY 2023-24

India: 57.83% Exports: 42.17%

Annual Report 2023-24 | 9

Our experienced Board of Directors

Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan

Chairman, Non-Executive Independent Director

Mr. Chandan has been appointed as an Independent Director w.e.f. February 12, 2024, and as the Chairman with effect from April 1, 2024. He is a professional with almost 35 years of experience in the corporate sector, he possesses domain expertise in legal, company secretarial, compliance, corporate governance, ESG reporting, corporate restructuring, intellectual property rights, investor relations, real estate, joint ventures and spearheading greenfield projects etc. Besides being a Fellow member of ICSI, he also holds Bachelor’s degrees in both commerce (B.Com) and Law (LLB). He has also done his management development programme from S. P. Jain Institute of

Management & Research, Mumbai and masters certificate course in Intellectual Property Rights from IES Institute, Mumbai.

Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan has held leadership positions in various companies and on multiple Boards including with BASF India Ltd. where he was Executive Director-Legal, General Counsel (South Asia) & Company Secretary and has previously worked with leading Corporates/Institutes including Indian Institute of Banking & Finance, Britannia Industries Ltd., ATV Projects Ltd. and Bhor Industries Ltd.

Ms. Rajeshwari Datla

Non-Executive Director

Ms. Rajeshwari Datla has around five decades of rich experience in management and operations in the pharmaceutical industry. She is a Bachelor of Science by education.

Ms. Rajeshwari Datla has been a member of the Company’s Audit Committee since joining in 2005, and with her invaluable contribution in the strategic and decisionmaking process, she has been instrumental in Company’s operations. She also serves as a Director for Dupen Laboratories Private Limited and Lacto-Cosmetics (Vapi) Private Limited.

Ms. Rajashri Ojha

Non-Executive Independent Director

She has more than 34 years of experience in the pharmaceutical, medical devices, and nutraceutical industries, with expertise in R&D analytical development, formulation development, regulatory and quality assurance compliance, global registrations, and marketing approvals. She is a lead auditor for ISO 13485:2016 and ISO 9001:2015 and has trained industry professionals for leading pharmaceutical and medical device companies. She has authored articles and research papers in reputed national and international journals and has received awards for healthcare leadership and women leadership. She is the founder and Director of Raaj GRAPC Private Limited.

In recognition of professional achievement and contribution towards nation building, Ms. Ojha was awarded “Woman of Excellence Award 2024” by Indian Achievers’ Forum and Achievers’ World.

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Mr. Pramod Kasat

Non-Executive Independent Director

As Managing Director of Intellecap Advisory Services, he brings over three decades of experience in investment banking and financial services. He previously served as Country Head of Investment Banking at IndusInd Bank and as Director and Head of Investment Banking at Pioneer Investcorp Ltd. (PINC), where he was instrumental in driving growth of the investment banking business. He has also held leadership roles at Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank Global Markets, IL&FS Group, and Citibank NA. He holds an engineering degree from BITS, Pilani and a Masters in Finance from Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai University.

Ms. Anupama Datla Desai

Executive Director

With around a decade and half of experience in various business areas, in addition to her R&D responsibilities, she possesses an expertise in quality control and the implementation of safety policies and procedures, new technology platforms, business development, customer interaction, and marketing. Ms. Anupama is an Executive Director on the Board. She has been associated with the Company since 2006, and under her guidance, the Company evolved from a simple bulk drug manufacturer into a specialized and diverse biotechnology company engaged in novel discovery, formulation, and process development platforms.

Mr. Krishna Datla

Executive Vice-Chairman

He is a forward-thinking and proactive leader who plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process and the development of new business opportunities for the Company. As the Promoter Director of Fermenta (formerly known as DIL Limited), he has been instrumental in integrating various businesses across the group and fostering a global vision for the Company, leading to expanded opportunities in international markets. In May 2021, he was redesignated as Executive Vice Chairman.

Mr. Satish Varma

Executive Director

He began his career at FBL group (formerly known as DIL group) as the Executive Assistant to the Managing Director and Founder in 1995, and has since gained extensive operational, management, and legal experience across the entire spectrum of the Company. He is highly enterprising and analytical and has led various crucial projects. He is also a member of the Stakeholders Relationship Committee of the Company.

Mr. Prashant Nagre

Managing Director

He has more than three decades of experience in the pharmaceutical industry with expertise in API business, production, and research and development. As the head of strategy and day-to-day operations at Fermenta, he oversees business development, budgeting, manufacturing, R&D, and other related activities. He holds a Master’s in Management Studies, a Post Graduate Diploma in International Trade (IIFT, New Delhi), and a Degree in Pharmacy.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 11

PART 2

How we performed; performance review by management

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Annual Report 2023-24 | 13

How we performed over the past few years

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(H Crore) (H Crore) (H Crore) (%)
FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24
292.95 385.54 406.65 358.54 347.47 77.56 89.91 69.58 26.20 39.32 59.52 45.50 15.45 (53.13) (24.00) 26.48 23.83 17.46 7.31 11.31
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Total income

Definition

Indicator of revenue movement - net of taxes.

Why this is measured

It is an index that showcases the Company’s ability to maximize revenues, which provides a basis against which the Company’s performance can be compared with sectoral peers.

What this means

Aggregate income decreased during the year under review.

Value impact

The Company reported total revenues of H347.47 Crore in FY 2023-24 as against H358.54 Crore in FY 2022-23.

EBITDA

Definition

Earnings before the deduction of fixed expenses (interest, depreciation, extraordinary items and tax).

Why this is measured

It is an index that showcases the Company’s ability to generate a surplus after operating costs, creating a base for comparison with sectoral peers.

What this means

Helps create a robust surplus generating engine that facilitates reinvestment.

Value impact

The Company reported EBITDA of H39.32 Crore in FY 2023-24 as against H26.20 Crore in FY 2022-23.

Net profit

Definition

Profit earned during the year after deducting all expenses.

Why this is measured

This measure highlights the strength of the business model in enhancing shareholder value.

What this means

This ensures the quantum of cash available for reinvestment.

Value impact

The Company reported a loss of H24.00 Crore in FY 2023-24 as against a loss of H53.13 Crore in FY 2022-23.

EBITDA margin

Definition

EBITDA margin is a profitability measure to ascertain a company’s operating efficiency.

Why this is measured

The EBITDA margin provides an index of how much a company earns (before interest and taxes) on each rupee of sales.

What this means

This measure demonstrates the buffer in the business, which, when multiplied by scale, can enhance the business surplus.

Value impact

The Company reported an EBITDA margin of 11.31 per cent in FY 2023-24 as against 7.31 per cent in FY 2022-23.

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(%) (times) (times) (H Crore)
FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24
14.93 14.57 8.81 (0.01) 0.04 0.56 0.45 0.55 0.69 0.46 4.05 5.00 4.07 1.26 2.30 309.44 360.29 371.45 312.56 285.16
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RoCE

Net gearing

Interest cover

Net worth

Definition

This financial ratio measures efficiency with which capital is employed in the business.

Why this is measured

ROCE is an insightful metric to compare profitability across companies based on their capital efficiency.

What this means

Enhanced ROCE can potentially drive valuations and market perception.

Value impact

The Company reported 0.04 per cent ROCE in FY 2023-24 as against (0.01) per cent ROCE for FY 2022-23.

Definition

This is derived through the accretion of shareholder-owned funds.

Why this is measured

Net worth indicates the financial soundness of the Company – the higher the better.

What this means

This indicates the borrowing capacity of the Company that influences the gearing (which, in turn, influences the cost at which the Company can mobilize debt).

Value impact

The Company’s gearing remained within acceptable limits even after the mobilization of long-term debt.

Definition

This is derived through the division of EBITDA by interest outflow.

Why is this measured?

Interest cover indicates a company’s comfort in servicing interest.

What does it mean?

A company’s ability to meet its interest obligations, an aspect of its solvency, is arguably one of the most important factors in assuring sizeable returns to shareholders.

Value impact

The Company’s reported 2.30 times interest cover in FY 2023-24 as against a 1.26 interest cover in FY 2022-23.

Definition

This is derived through the accretion of shareholder-owned funds.

Why is this measured?

Net worth indicates the financial soundness of a company – the higher the better.

What does it mean?

This indicates the borrowing capacity of a company and influences the gearing (which, in turn, influences the cost at which a company can mobilize debt).

Value impact

The Company reported a net worth of H285.16 Crore in FY 202324 as against a net worth of H312.56 Crore in FY 2022-23.

Note: FY 2022-23 figures are reinstated pursuant to the amalgamation of Fermenta Biotech Limited with its holding company DVK Investments Private Limited and wholly owned subsidiary Aegean Properties Limited.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 15

C H A I R M A N ’ S O V E R V I E W

Inculcating strategic adaptability to strengthen endurance in times of market disruptions

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Dear shareholders,

It has been a quarter since I have had the honour of becoming Chairman of your Company.

The year under review presented unexpected challenges and structural changes marked by economic uncertainties and market disruptions that tested our strategic and operational

resilience, impacting our revenue and profitability. The Market conditions in the vitamins segment led to reduced sales volumes and lower margins, putting a pressure on our topline and bottomline. Additionally, the global economic uncertainties led to fluctuating raw material costs and operational inefficiencies, straining our financial performance. Despite these difficulties, we remained committed to address these issues through strategic adjustments and operational improvements.

The global macro-economic scenario during the year resulted in subdued growth due to high inflation and interest rates, geo-political tensions, and recession concerns. However, inspite of global uncertainties, India’s micro-economic fundamentals remained strong and India remained on a trajectory of higher growth. Inflation began to moderate and post-Covid challenges like supply chain constraints began to gradually ease which augur well for your Company.

Upholding core values and strong governance

Fermenta’s journey of seven decades stands as a testament to its adaptability, which equipped it with the endurance to navigate through market cycles. It is this deep-rooted legacy that continues to guide as we confront and overcome economic uncertainties.

At the heart of Fermenta’s success are our values of discipline and perseverance. These principles have been the

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

cornerstone of our resilience, enabling us to maintain operational integrity and strategic focus even in the face of adversity. Our commitment to these values and principles ensures that we remain steadfast in our pursuit of long-term growth and stability.

Your Company is committed to maintain highest standards of corporate governance. A strong emphasis on transparency, accountability and integrity guides its philosophy. Our governance framework is designed to ensure that we uphold ethical standards / practices, comply with regulatory requirements, and foster a culture of responsibility throughout the organization.

This year, we continued to honour our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Our initiatives reflect our dedication to create positive social impact. Our CSR activities have focused on health, education, and community development, reinforcing our role as a responsible corporate citizen.

Strategic focus and investment impact

Our Vitamin D business remains the cornerstone of our strategy. Despite market challenges, our focus on expanding and optimizing this segment is crucial as we anticipate a resurgence in demand. We are positioned to leverage our expertise and investments in Vitamin D to capitalize on growth opportunities in the animal and human nutrition markets.

Moreover, the investments we made during periods of strong revenue and profitability are beginning to yield results.

Positive outlook

With a competent and talented leadership team and dedicated employees, I am hopeful that we will emerge successfully from the current volatile scenario, stronger. We will drive success and profitable growth to create sustainable value for all our stakeholders.

I take this opportunity to extend my gratitude and appreciation to our Board of Directors, employees, valued customers, bankers, partners / associates, Central and State governments, regulatory authorities, other stakeholders and society at large for their valuable support.

I also thank all our shareholders for their trust and support.

With best wishes,

Pradeep M. Chandan, Chairman

At the heart of Fermenta’s success are our unwavering corporate values of discipline and perseverance.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 17

M A N A G I N G D I R E C T O R O V E R V I E W

Navigating a complex environment by optimizing operations and building a resilient business

Overview

The year FY 2023-24 was marked by a confluence of economic challenges and uncertainties that tested the resilience and adaptability of businesses across various sectors. Inflationary pressures, geopolitical tensions, and persistent disruptions within the global supply chain created a turbulent landscape for industries worldwide. Within this complex environment, the vitamins sector faced significant hurdles, including subdued demand and price constraints, primarily due to excess inventory accumulation at the customers’ end. These factors exerted considerable pressure on our topline and bottomline, reflecting the broader macro-economic struggles and cyclical downturns specific to our sector.

Our initiatives not only enhance our operational readiness but also reinforce our position as a market leader poised to benefit from the eventual upturn in the Vitamin D3 market.

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Demonstrating strategic adaptability

In the face of these headwinds, Fermenta exhibited remarkable resilience and strategic foresight. Our approach to navigating these challenging times was multifaceted, focusing on optimizing operations, curtailing costs, and positioning ourselves for long-term success. The measures we undertook over the past year were instrumental in mitigating the impact of external pressures and laying the groundwork for future growth.

In light of the market dynamics, we took proactive measures to reduce costs through prudent spending and optimizing business operations. By adopting a disciplined approach to spending and streamlining processes, we maintained financial stability and operational efficiency.

Expanding capabilities and diversifying offerings

The cornerstone of our strategy was an investment in capacity expansion and capability enhancement within the nutrition segment. Over the past few years, we dedicated substantial resources to augment our production and research facilities, resulting in the successful commercialization of several new products. Notable among these were Vitamin K1, fortified rice kernel, and customized premixes. This strategic product portfolio diversification was

intended to reduce our reliance on any single product line. We are confident that the strategic investments will bear fruit by advancing us into a holistic nutritional solutions provider.

I am happy to report that Fermenta secured a State government tender for FRK in Andhra Pradesh, a region in South India with a growing need for nutritional fortification. Additionally, we supplied our premix to other manufacturers within the FRK sector, expanding our reach and influence. The criticality of quality ingredients in ensuring the right nutrition is of utmost importance; it is a matter of pride that Fermenta is playing a key role in bringing high-quality premixes to the market, manufactured in a dedicated facility built to match pharmaceutical standards. We aim to partner with development agencies and empanel ourselves as a global supplier.

Positioning for market recovery and driving innovation

In the Vitamin D3 business, the animal nutrition market experienced a downturn due to lower feed prices over the past year. However, historical trends suggest that market cycles typically rebound after periods of decline. On the human nutrition front, we anticipate that demand for Vitamin D3 has settled at a level that surpasses the pre-pandemic levels and will revive once the existing inventory is depleted. To position ourselves advantageously for this anticipated recovery, we focused on building a

backward-integrated supply chain, investing in production capacity, and optimizing our manufacturing processes to comply with global regulatory standards. These initiatives not only enhance our operational readiness but also reinforce our position as a market leader poised to benefit from the eventual upturn in the Vitamin D3 market.

Demand-driven innovation has been the backbone of our success, and our team demonstrated this once again last year by working on a new route for Phenyramidol, in response to supply constraints and rising costs of key raw materials. Our continued investment in research and development underscores our dedication to addressing critical nutritional needs and driving progress within the industry.

Looking ahead: Expanding horizons and creating value

We are steadfastly focused on leveraging our new basket of products, entering emerging markets with a growing demand, expanding our offerings to newer geographies and applications. I would like to thank all our stakeholders whose collective efforts have been pivotal in driving our progress – our suppliers, customers, partners, employees and shareholders. We remain committed to strengthening our business and converting challenges into opportunities to create shared value.

Prashant Nagre

Managing Director

Annual Report 2023-24 | 19

PART 3

How our Company is enhancing integrated value

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Annual Report 2023-24 | 21

Fermenta’s integrated value-creation report Fermenta’s multi-decade journey has been derived through the interplay of various competencies which act as catalyst for growth.

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Our
Capitals
Financial Capital Manufactured Capital Intellectual Capital
What they are � Financial resources � Tangible and � Intangible,
that the Company intangible knowledge-based
already possesses or infrastructure used assets
mobilizes by the Company
to enhance value
through its business
Management � Enhance value for � Invest in resilient � Deepen the role of
approach shareholders through assets to strengthen innovation in our
sustainable growth customer service existence
Significant outcomes � Balanced financial � Trusted supplier of � Secure our intellectual
structure; no debt products capital through
� Culture of operational � Leading market player property rights
excellence � Investment in
� Sustainable dividends technologies
payout � Collaboration with
partners leading to
innovative solutions
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Human Capital

Natural Capital

Brand Capital

  • Employee knowledge, skills, experience and motivation

  • Natural resources � Enhanced trust in impacted by the efficacy, consistency, Company’s activities availability and affordability

    • Creating brands and growing them
  • Ensure the sustainable use of natural resources; contribute to counter-climate change

  • Committed and qualified workforce translates into an inclusive and balanced workplace

  • Unique and highquality value proposition

  • Anytime product accessibility and availability

  • Employee well-being � Preservation of � Trust-based climate and nature engagement

  • Talent management

  • Moderated environment footprint

  • Diversity and equal opportunity

  • Enhanced energy efficiency

  • Learning & development

  • Enhanced productivity

Social and Relationship Capital

  • Ability to share and relate with stakeholders, promoting social development and wellbeing

  • Promote trust with stakeholders

  • Share resources

  • Protect the wellbeing and dignity of workers and employees

  • Promote zero incidents commitment across factories and workplaces

  • Direct implementation of CSR projects

  • Human rights

  • Transparency and good governance

Annual Report 2023-24 | 23

S T A K E H O L D E R E N G A G E M E N T

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How we deepen stakeholder relationships

Overview

Fermenta’s inclusive, collaborative, and responsive approach has helped strengthen stakeholder relationships. Active stakeholder engagement has empowered the Company to derive insights into stakeholder requirements. A structured engagement framework ensures that communication is timely, information transfer is precise, and interactions with stakeholders are consistent.

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Stakeholder Whether identified Channels of Frequency of Purpose and scope of
Group as Vulnerable communication engagement engagement including key
& Marginalized (Email, SMS, (Annually / topics and concerns raised
Group (Yes/No) Newspaper, Pamphlets, Half yearly / during such engagement
Advertisement, Quarterly /
Community Meetings, others)
Notice Board, Website),
Other
Shareholders No � General Meetings Ongoing Keeping shareholders updated
� Stock Exchange about the Company’s business
performance is crucial. We value
intimations
acknowledging their queries and
� Investor presentations inputs and expectations from
/ Annual reports & Company.
quarterly results
� Press releases
� Company’s website
Customers No � Customer meets Need basis Our entire business in dependent
� Direct communication upon customers. Understanding
customers’ expectations, their
� Brochures satisfaction and retention is at
the core of Fermenta’s business.
� Social media
� Company’s website Engagement and good
relationship with customers
helps the Company in Business
Development.
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24 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

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----- Start of picture text -----

Stakeholder Whether identified Channels of Frequency of Purpose and scope of
Group as Vulnerable communication engagement engagement including key
& Marginalized (Email, SMS, (Annually / topics and concerns raised
Group (Yes/No) Newspaper, Pamphlets, Half yearly / during such engagement
Advertisement, Quarterly /
Community Meetings, others)
Notice Board, Website),
Other
Employees No � Senior management Continually Employees are our biggest asset
and workers interactions and pillars of our functioning.
� HR communications Regular interactions with
them help the Company
� Performance appraisal understand their expectations
meetings/review and grievances which in order
� Exit interviews helps Company build a strong
employee base with loyalty and
� Union meetings, low attrition rate.
Company’s website
� HRMS (System)
Suppliers No � Meetings On a need basis Regular engagements will help
� Supplier audits to ensure timely receipt of
materials, their quality and safety
� Facility visits amongst other critical services
to ensure continuity of business
operations.
Regulators No � Meetings, On a need basis We aspire for full compliance
� Seminars/ Webinars with all the applicable
regulations. Interactions with
� Official communications the Government and Regulators
� Statutory publications help us understand statutory and
procedural requirements and
resolve any issues or lapses in
relation thereto.
Communities No � Interactions through CSR On a need basis Fermenta, being a responsible
initiatives corporate citizen, strongly
believes in growing together
with the community/society.
Hence, our CSR programmes
helps in community
development. The Company also
fulfils its manpower requirement
by employing the people from
the nearby location where it has
its business operations to the
extent possible.
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Annual Report 2023-24 | 25

B U S I N E S S S E G M E N T

Vitamin D and niche APIs

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----- Start of picture text -----

Vitamin D
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Overview

Vitamin D is well-documented for its impact on bone health, but its benefits extend beyond the skeletal system due to the presence of Vitamin D receptors in various cells throughout the body. As a crucial hormone, Vitamin D regulates numerous genes and functions, including glucose homeostasis, cardiovascular health, and immune system modulation. Fermenta, a global leader in Vitamin D production, is the sole manufacturer of Vitamin D3 in India. The Company has successfully implemented backward integration to produce cholesterol, the key starting material for Vitamin D3.

Outlook

Fermenta anticipates that the demand for Vitamin D will stabilize at levels higher than those seen before the pandemic. The growing focus on preventive health and the increasing consumer interest in supplementation are expected to drive the Company’s Vitamin D business forward. Although the animal nutrition sector faced a period of weak global demand and low returns, Fermenta remained positioned to capitalize on upcoming market opportunities.

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----- Start of picture text -----

Fermenta, a global leader in
Vitamin D production, is the
sole manufacturer of Vitamin
D3 in India.
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26 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

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----- Start of picture text -----

Niche APIs
----- End of picture text -----

Overview

Fermenta specializes in the manufacture of specialty APIs, including Phenyramidol Hydrochloride and Silicon powder (Activated Dimethicone Powder).

Product portfolio

Phenyramidol Hydrochloride and Silicon powder (Activated Dimethicone Powder) service a key global account. Phenyramidol Hydrochloride is a powerful muscle relaxant with analgesic properties.

Outlook

The increasing prevalence of lower back, neck, and shoulder pain due to prolonged use of electronic devices presents significant growth potential for the pharmaceutical sector. Fermenta plans to enhance its processes to capitalize on this emerging trend.

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Annual Report 2023-24 | 27

B U S I N E S S S E G M E N T

Nutrition

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Nutritional ingredients: Vitamin K1

Fermenta launched Vitamin K1 in both API and spray-dried formats. Vitamin K1, also known as Phytonadione or Phylloquinone, is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for blood clotting. Impaired blood clotting is a clinical symptom of Vitamin K deficiency. Adults at risk for Vitamin K deficiency include patients taking anticoagulant drugs, which act as Vitamin K antagonists.

Nutritional ingredients: Vitamin E 50 per cent feed grade

As poultry and swine cannot naturally synthesize Vitamin E, supplementation is essential. With the pandemic over, the demand in the animal feed industry is expected to increase.

Nutritional ingredients: Fish oil cholesterol

FermSterol® is Fermenta’s fish oilderived, free-flowing, and easily mixable cholesterol. Cholesterol is essential in aquaculture and is a regular ingredient in shrimp farming.

Fermenta introduced Vitamin E 50 per cent feed grade to the domestic market.

28 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

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B U S I N E S S S E G M E N T

Integrated biotechnology

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----- Start of picture text -----

As a leader in immobilized
enzyme technology,
Fermenta is a prominent
producer of lipase enzymes,
providing innovative
biotechnology solutions.
----- End of picture text -----

Overview

At Fermenta, we offer comprehensive solutions in fermentation, enzyme purification, enzyme immobilization, enzymatic synthesis, microbiology, genetic engineering, and polymer bead development for synthesis scaleup. Fermenta was one of the pioneers in developing fermentation-based Penicillin G Amidase bio-catalyst enzyme (Fermase PA 850), used in the biocatalytic hydrolysis of amide bonds for beta-lactam intermediates, and Penicillin G Acylase enzyme (Fermase PS 250), used in the biocatalytic synthesis of beta-lactam antibiotics.

We strengthened the network of enzymatic production of ampicillin and amoxicillin derivatives in India. As a leader in immobilized enzyme technology, Fermenta is a prominent producer of lipase enzymes, providing innovative biotechnology solutions. Our CAL B Lipase enzyme enjoys broad applications in green chemistry for chiral active pharmaceutical ingredients, oleochemicals, biofuels, and personal care products. This enzyme is preferred for its superior stability and activity in hydrolysis, esterification, and transesterification reactions across various industries.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 29

B U S I N E S S S E G M E N T

Environment solutions

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----- Start of picture text -----

The Company focuses
on delivering quality
solutions in liquid waste
treatment, addressing
regulatory standards while
ensuring client satisfaction
in a competitive market
landscape.
----- End of picture text -----

Overview

Utilizing biological and engineering methods, the Company’s environmental solutions business division offers comprehensive environmental consultancy, including engineeringprocurement-construction (EPC) services for sewage, waste water and water treatment plants, catering to establishments and industries.

The Company focuses on delivering quality solutions in liquid waste treatment, addressing regulatory standards while ensuring client satisfaction in a competitive market landscape.

Highlights, FY 2023-24

� The Company successfully commissioned plants for reputed

developers and hospitals projects, providing treated water for reuse.

� Reduced customers’ dependence on tanker water and external water sources, contributing to pollution control visa-vis environmental preservation and lowering expenses associated with water procurement thereof.

� Established successful references with prominent brands in the real estate, commercial and hospitals sectors.

Our competitive strengths

Proprietary design and engineering layout, complemented by the intellectually protected Bioculture Fermsept, the Company: (a) represents product differentiation, enhances biological growth and ensures consistent water quality

and maintenance; (b) competency to commission projects of varying size and various technologies; leveraging technical competence which, inter alia, includes tertiary filtration as well.

Outlook, FY 2024-25

The Company is prepared to cater to larger projects, addressing large volume clients, including infrastructure, hospitals, industrial effluents and airports. Venturing into new locations to undertake larger projects is expected to help the Company grow this area of business.

30 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

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B U S I N E S S E N A B L E R

Our Manufacturing competence

Overview

Fermenta’s science-based approach enhances nutritional value across every step of the value chain, contributing to sustainable nutrition for consumer health and wellness.

The Company commissioned manufacturing facilities benchmarked around world class standards. Even though these plants are located in India, they comprise global showpieces in terms of their spaciousness, shopfloor design, technology investments, and global certifications. The Company’s manufacturing hygiene and standards are periodically audited and reviewed by certifying agencies and customers.

The Company’s premixes are designed around regulatory standards to maximize consumer benefit. The Company’s commitment to quality is evidenced by the minimal market complaints, market returns, and recalls; it is also marked by regulatory audits without critical deficiencies.

The Company invested in the certification of instruments and equipment, along with the validation of methods and processes. These ensure that our quality systems are robust and consistent.

The Company’s extensive monitoring of process development, optimization, and transfer has enhanced manufacturing efficiency, ensuring the delivery of completely compliant products. Optimized and validated processes yielded consistent quality and production.

The Company evaluated its products using national and international quality standards, holding top-level certifications and approvals, including USFDA, CEP, WHO - GMP, FSSAI, HACCP, BRC, FSSC 22000,

FSMA, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, The Vegetarian Society UK, Halal and Kosher.

Our competitive strengths

� Robust quality systems invested with quality equipment, validated methods and processes.

� Commencement of supply of FRK to the Government and premix to other FRK manufacturers.

� Customized premix solutions from the Kullu facility for diverse food fortification and dietary supplement needs.

� Backward integration into the manufacture of key raw materials like cholesterol to ensure sustainability and consistent supply.

Highlights, FY 2023-24

The Company’s culture of product excellence was strengthened by robust supplier quality management, supply chain management, employee training and comprehensive food safety systems.

The Company ensured an effective training program for employees, continuous inprocess monitoring and the highest levels of manufacturing cleanliness and hygiene.

The Company leveraged proprietary knowledge in Vitamin D production and biotechnological processes, driving improvements in various measurable outcomes through its new premix plant. This expansion not only supports growth objectives but also strengthens the capacity to address the evolving requirements of customers within the nutritional industry.

The Company invested in motion sensor lights, replacing legacy valves for auto control equivalents, among others, for enhanced energy efficiency

USFDA, CEP, WHO - GMP, FSSAI, HACCP, BRC, FSSC 22000, FSMA, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, The Vegetarian Society UK, Halal, and Kosher.

The Company developed health-focused products like FRK and nutritional premixes to address micronutrient deficiency; it supplied more than 100MTs of FRK and FRK premix.

The Company’s new cholesterol manufacturing process enhanced efficiency and productivity.

The Company modified facilities to increase batch charging frequency for Lanolin; it commissioned new plants in Kullu (premix facility) and Nellore (FRK) with advanced equipment.

The Company developed manufacturing processes to reduce high value raw material wastage, increasing yield of some products, as compared to previous year(s) yields, by implementing new streamlined processes.

The Company optimized logistics, implementing real-time tracking systems, and streamlining warehouse operations, resulting in quicker deliveries to customers.

Outlook, FY 2024-25

The outlook for FY 2024-25 appears encouraging on account of increasing demand and strategic partnerships. The Company will focus on innovation and sustainability.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 31

B U S I N E S S E N A B L E R

Research and development

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----- Start of picture text -----

Solutions through innovative
research and development.
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Overview

At Fermenta, we are committed to growing our nutrition business through innovative and sustainable solutions. Across the years, our extensive research and market surveys have empowered the Company to gain valuable insights into customer needs, trends and preferences.

By leveraging this knowledge, the Company develops sustainable food premix solutions designed to address dietary deficiencies and specific clinical disorders. The Company’s premixes are customized to fortify foods intended for special dietary purposes and medical needs, reconciling taste and quality.

The Company focuses on the discovery and development of novel, sustainable ingredients that offer nutritional benefits. Its goal is also to optimize formulations that enhance the nutritional profile of food products, promoting individual well-being and contributing to business growth.

Consumer education is a key component of the Company’s strategy. The Company engages in initiatives that provide evidence-based information about the benefits of sustainable nutrition, communicating research findings that enhance consumer awareness. The Company conducts lifecycle assessments and shelf-life studies to evaluate and identify improvement opportunities. These data-driven decisions enhance product sustainability and stability, ensuring their market success.

Highlights, FY 2023-24

� The Company developed vitamin and mineral premixes for the fortification of staple foods in accordance with FSSAI guidelines across categories (including rice, oil, flour, milk and beverages).

� The Company’s API R&D team synthesized cholesterol, continued to develop calcifediol and scaled Vitamin K1 using innovative methods, validating a

commitment to pioneering sustainable laboratory solutions.

� The Company researched API initiatives, developing new synthesis routes for existing products and innovative methods to manufacture new products.

� The Company won tenders including state tenders in domain of staple food fortification.

� The Company also entered the domain of Vitamin Minerals Premix for the food and beverage segments.

Outlook, FY 2024-25

The Company will focus on innovative research and the development of its product range.

32 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

B U S I N E S S E N A B L E R

Our Marketing excellence

Overview

Fermenta operates in competitive sectors spanning human and animal health viz. pharmaceuticals, veterinary, dietary supplements, food, feed, and biotechnology. These industries are governed by stringent global regulatory standards, demanding innovation while ensuring complete regulatory compliance with global health authorities like FDA and EDQM. The industry’s landscape is influenced by global health trends and economic conditions that impact market demand and supply chain.

Fermenta has distinguished itself through Vitamin D3 specialization, offering a comprehensive portfolio across applications viz. pharmaceutical, veterinary, food, feed and rodenticides. By the virtue of complete documentary and regulatory support, the Company addresses the needs of customers in global markets.

The ability of the Company to provide customized premix solutions would address diverse customer needs across food fortification and dietary supplements thereby offering the Company a competitive edge.

Backward integration towards the manufacture of key raw materials like cholesterol has ensured sustainability and supply consistency. Supported by a robust distribution network spanning around 60 countries, coupled with rigorous R&D efforts and compliance with stringent regulatory standards, Fermenta has enhanced competitiveness.

Our competitive strengths

Customer-centric strategy : Implemented a customer-centric approach focusing on personalized service and proactive communication.

Building strong relationships :

Emphasized strong, long-term customer relationships.

Increased customer satisfaction :

Focused on generating high customer satisfaction rates and improved customer retention.

Trusted supplier : Deepened its respect as a trusted supplier, among customers.

Highlights, FY 2023-24

� Fermenta started supplying Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) to the Andhra Pradesh State Government and FRK premix to other Indian FRK manufacturers.

� The Company won tenders in the domain of staple food fortification.

� The Company entered the arena of Vitamin Minerals Premixes for the food and beverages segment.

� The Company supplied Vitamin D3 variants to value-added manufacturers in the pharmaceutical and nutrition segment.

� The Company deepened relationships with stakeholders in the nutritional and pharmaceutical industries, strengthening customer acquisition.

� The Company partnered with leading distribution companies in key markets for specific segments.

Fermenta’s competitive edge in Vitamin D3 and premixes

Fermenta’s customers benefit from global product certifications and comprehensive documentary support, enabling them to register and launch pharmaceutical dosage forms in regulated markets with speed.

On the premix side, the Company offers customized solutions tailored to specific industry needs, ensuring supply chain

reliability and global product delivery with local support.

A commitment to stringent regulatory compliance and quality assurance ensures that products address the highest safety standards. A sustained investment in research and development helps catalyze innovation, keeping customers competitive.

A focus on sustainability aligns with client environmental goals, enhancing their brand and fulfilling corporate responsibility objectives.

Fermenta’s strategic approach to market leadership

Fermenta offers a comprehensive portfolio of Vitamin D3 variants with full regulatory and documentary support, positioning it as a preferred supplier for companies seeking quality products benchmarked against global standards.

The Company leverages volume and availability to deepen market penetration. The Company targets emerging markets with rapidly growing demand for dietary supplements and fortified foods, aiming to expand market share.

Outlook, FY 2024-25

Fermenta anticipates a positive outlook for its sales and marketing business support function, marked by enhancing customer service and engagement. Use of advanced digital tools and technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, wherever feasible, would help to deliver better customer experiences and interaction.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 33

B U S I N E S S E N A B L E R

Supply chain management

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Fermenta won Excellence in Pharma Supply Chain Management award in Institute of Supply Chain Management Awards 2023.

Overview

Fermenta aims at novel operations that extended beyond conventional enterprise resource planning. As a result, managing the supply chain proficiently, utilizing business analytics, implementing plant automation, leveraging cloud technology, and ensuring real-time access to information form a part of the above. Fermenta upgraded its technological infrastructure through collaborations with global partners. This helps the seamless flow of real-time information and updates.

Fermenta, operating as a supply chaincentric organization, prioritized nurturing strong relationships with business partners, especially third-party logistics service providers, to ensure reliability and trust.

Highlights, FY 2023-24

Institute of Supply Chain Management Awards 2023.

� The Company implemented new strategies to mitigate risks and enhance supply chain visibility.

� Fermenta’s supply chain function focused on strengthening supplier relationships and improving systemic transparency.

� Fermenta maintained contractual agreements with suppliers to mitigate price fluctuations.

Outlook, FY 2024-25

Fermenta expects to continue harnessing operational efficiencies and excel in supply chain operations through streamlined planning, efficient procurement practices, and optimized logistics management.

� Fermenta won Excellence in Pharma Supply Chain Management award in

34 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

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B U S I N E S S E N A B L E R

Environment, health and safety

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Fermenta considers environment, health and safety measures as its moral obligation towards its workforce and society.

Overview

The concept of business sustainability represents a guiding principle that harmonizes environmental, social, and governance principles with economic interests. At Fermenta, we treat this concept with the seriousness it deserves, making it central to our planning, decision making and project execution.

This concept is particularly critical in our business. The Company is engaged in the business of pharmaceutical manufacture, where the process generates pollutants and wastes, making the responsible EHS management mandatory.

Fermenta considers environment, health and safety measures as a moral obligation towards its workforce and society. This benefits in fewer work-related incidents and decreased operational downtime. The ISO 45001 certification serves as a

cornerstone in fostering a culture of health and safety, mitigating risks and identifying potential workplace hazards.

At Fermenta, we prioritize the health and safety of employees, contractors, customers and the communities in which we operate, along with environmental conservation. We ensure compliance with the statutory regulations and good practices for the benefit of the environment. Health, safety and environmental considerations are integral to our business planning and operations.

Without protective health and safety policies, employees could face the risks of injuries. Moreover, employee morale can suffer when they feel their well-being is not a priority, resulting in a less motivated workforce and lower productivity.

Fermenta emphasizes communication transparency, work-life balance, supportive

Annual Report 2023-24 | 35

work culture, holistic (physical, mental and emotional) well-being and professional development that enables employees to feel safe and excel.

Key initiatives, FY 2023-24

� Implementation of EHS initiatives as our dedication in building a green future, reducing our impact on the environment

and well being of the workforce and society.

� Conducting safety training and periodic drills, implementing safety protocols, routine medical check-ups, and providing protective equipment wherever needed.

� The manufacturing unit and R&D lab identified scenario-based emergency preparedness plans to counter specific emergencies.

  • Monitoring safety standards through

  • a focus on appropriate safety controls, elimination of unsafe activities, providing better replacement methods and the installation of engineering controls.

  • Ensuring compliance with personal

  • protective equipment requirements.

Safety protocols and measures

  • Clearly enunciated safety/EHS policy

  • Awareness building and communication

  • Focused training

  • Regular mock drills, enhancing preparedness

  • Observing Safety Week (March 4[th] to 11[th] ) at each manufacturing facility

Safety incident response steps

Documenting : Recording safety violation details Reporting : Notifying the supervisor or safety officer Following up : Ensuring the issue is promptly addressed Learning : Understanding safety protocols to incident recurrence

Key numbers

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Year FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
Water consumption (KL) per unit of end product produced 92510.35 80046.94 76489.18
Water recycled in quantum terms (KL) 16850 14051 8192
Non-hazardous waste generated (Tonnes) 26.7 22.32 2.7
SO2 emission (units) 79.33 72.02 104.02
NOx emission (units) 2921.74 2374.6 4708.17
Power consumption (kwh) per unit of end product produced 14820963 11680482 11611059
Captive energy
% of energy consumption generated from within 57500 KWH 83202 KWH 303882 KWH
Resource consumption
Quantum of green energy generated (Million units) 33377 34703 36987
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36 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

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C O R P O R A T E S O C I A L R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y

How we are participating in building prosperous communities

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Overview

Fermenta has always considered itself as a responsible and sensitive corporate. Our corporate citizenship is defined by our vision statement and its guiding principles. The Company’s engagement is directed by a defined CSR Policy, implemented under the guidance of a CSR Committee and senior management; the projects are periodically monitored.

Our engagement in corporate social responsibility projects is aligned with regulatory mandates and social

priorities. We extend beyond mere ‘cheque-writing’ to a deeper and direct engagement with the objective to make a lasting positive difference. We believe in making initial investments where a moderate engagement from our side can translate into a disproportionately larger societal impact. Fermenta engages in programmes including enhancing livelihoods, strengthening healthcare, promoting education, social welfare, rural development, and the protection of flora and fauna.

CSR committee

The Company’s Board of Directors established a CSR committee tasked with developing CSR policy, action plans, and guiding principles for the selection, implementation, and monitoring of CSR activities. This committee’s work served as the basis for the creation of standard operating procedures by the Company, ensuring the effective implementation of CSR projects. More information on Company’s CSR spending and related details are provided in the Board report.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 37

Management discussion and analysis

Global economy

Overview

Global economic growth declined from 3.5 per cent in 2022 to an estimated 3.1 per cent in 2023. A disproportionate share of global growth in FY 2023-24 is expected to come from Asia, despite the weaker-thanexpected recovery in China, sustained weakness in USA, higher energy costs in Europe, weak global consumer sentiment on account of the Ukraine-Russia war, and the Red Sea crisis resulting in higher logistics costs. A tightening monetary policy translated into increased policy rates and interest rates for new loans.

Growth in advanced economies is expected to slow from 2.6 per cent in 2022 to 1.5 per cent in 2023 and 1.4 per cent in 2024 as policy tightening takes effect. Emerging market and developing economies are projected to report a

modest growth decline from 4.1 per cent in 2022 to 4.0 per cent in 2023 and 2024. Global inflation is expected to decline steadily from 8.7 per cent in 2022 to 6.9 per cent in 2023 and 5.8 per cent in 2024, due to a tighter monetary policy aided by relatively lower international commodity prices. Core inflation decline is expected to be more gradual; inflation is not expected to return to target until 2025 in most cases. The US Federal Reserve approved a muchanticipated interest rate hike that took the benchmark borrowing costs to their highest in more than 22 years.

trade in services was expected to have expanded US$500 Billion. The cost of Brent crude oil averaged $83 per barrel in 2023, down from $101per barrel in 2022, with crude oil from Russia finding destinations outside the European Union and global crude oil demand falling short of expectations.

Global equity markets ended 2023 on a high note, with major global equity benchmarks delivering double-digit returns. This out performance was led by a decline in global inflation, slide in the dollar index, declining crude and higher expectations of rate cuts by the US Fed and other Central banks.

Global trade in goods was expected to have declined nearly US$2 Trillion in 2023;

Regional growth (%) 2024 2023
World output 3.1 3.5
Advanced economies 1.69 2.5
Emerging and developing economies 4.1 3.8

(Source: UNCTAD, IMF)

Performance of major economies, 2023

United States Reported GDP growth of 2.5 per cent in 2023 compared to 1.9 per cent in 2022

China

GDP growth was 5.2 per cent in 2023 compared to 3 per cent in 2022

United Kingdom GDP grew by 0.4 per cent in 2023 compared to 4.3 per cent in 2022

Germany

Japan Germany GDP grew 1.9 GDP contracted by per cent in 2023 0.3 per cent in 2023 unchanged from a compared to 1.8 per preliminary 1.9 per cent in 2022 cent in 2022

(Source: PWC report, EY report, IMF data, OECD data, Livemint)

Outlook

Asia is expected to continue to account for the bulk of global growth in FY 2024-25. Inflation is expected to ease gradually

as cost pressures moder-ate; headline inflation in G20 countries is expected to decline. The global economy has demonstrated resilience amid high

inflation and monetary tightening, growth around previous levels for the next two years.

(Source: World Bank).

38 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Indian economy

Overview

The Indian economy was estimated to grow 7.8 per cent in the FY 2023-24 against 7.2 per cent in FY 2022-23 mainly on account of the improved performance in the mining and quarrying, manufacturing and certain segments of the services sector. India retained its position as the fifth largest economy. The Indian rupee displayed relative resilience compared to the previous year; the rupee opened at H82.66 against the US dollar on the first trading day of 2023 and on 27 December was H83.35 versus the greenback, a depreciation of 0.8 per cent.

In the 11 months of FY 2023-24, the CPI inflation averaged 5.4 per cent with rural inflation exceeding urban inflation. Lower production and erratic weather led to a

The FY 2024-25 growth in the economy was the highest since FY 2016-17, excluding the 9.7 per cent post-Covid rebound in gross domestic product (GDP) in FY 2021-22 from the 5.8 per cent contraction in FY 2020-21.

India’s monsoon for 2023 hit a five-year low. August was the driest month in a century. From June to September, the country received only 94 per cent of its long-term average rainfall. Despite this reality, wheat production was expected to touch a record 114 Million Tonnes in the FY 2023-24 crop year on account of higher coverage. Rice production was expected to decline to reach 106 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) compared with 132 Million Metric Tonnes in the previous year. Total kharif pulses production for FY 2023-24 was estimated at 71.18 Lakh Metric Tonnes, lower than the previous year due to climatic conditions.

As per the first advance estimates of national income released by the National Statistical Office (NSO), the manufacturing sector output was estimated to grow 6.5 per cent in FY 2023-24 compared to 1.3 per cent in FY 2022-23. The Indian mining sector growth was estimated at 8.1 per cent in FY 2023-24 compared to 4.1 per cent in FY 2022-23. Financial services, real estate and professional services were

spike in food inflation. In contrast, core inflation averaged at 4.5 per cent, a sharp decline from 6.2 per cent in FY 2022-23. The softening of global commodity prices led to a moderation in core inflation.

strong between October 2023 and March 2024 following deleveraged Balance Sheets, sustained domestic demand and government-led capital expenditure. Rating upgrades continued to surpass rating downgrades in H2 FY 2023-24. UPI transactions in India posted a record 56 per cent rise in volume and 43 per cent rise in value in FY 2023-24.

The nation’s foreign exchange reserves achieved a historic milestone, reaching $645.6 Billion in March 2024. The credit quality of Indian companies remained

Growth of the Indian economy

FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24E
Real GDPgrowth (%) -6.6% 8.7 7.2 8.2

E: Estimated

Growth of the Indian economy quarter by quarter, FY 2023-24

Q1FY24 Q2FY24 Q3FY24 Q4FY24E
Real GDPgrowth (%) 8.2 8.1 8.4 7.8

(Source: Budget FY 2023-24; Economy Projections, RBI projections, Deccan Herald)

the previous year. Gross GST collection of H20.2 Lakh Crore represented an 11.7 per cent in-crease; average monthly collection was H1,68,000 Crore, surpassing the previous year’s average of H1,50,000 Crore.

estimated to record a growth of 8.9 per cent in FY 2023-24 com-pared to 7.1 per cent in FY 2022-23.

Real GDP or GDP at constant prices in FY 2023-24 was estimated at H171.79 Lakh Crore as against the provisional GDP estimate of FY 2022-23 of H160.06 Lakh Crore (released on May 31, 2023). Growth in real GDP during FY 2023-24 was estimated at 7.3 per cent compared to 7.2 per cent in FY 2022-23. Nominal GDP or GDP at current prices in FY 202324 was estimated at H296.58 Lakh Crore against the provisional FY 2022-23 GDP estimate of H272.41 Lakh Crore. The gross non-performing asset ratio for scheduled commercial banks dropped to 3.2 per cent as of September 2023, following a decline from 3.9 per cent at the end of March 2023.

The agriculture sector was expected to see a growth of 1.8 per cent in FY 202324, lower than the 4 per cent expansion recorded in FY 2022-23. Trade, hotel, transport, communication and services related to broadcasting segment are estimated to grow at 6.3 per cent in FY 2023-24, a contraction from 14 per cent in FY 2022-23. The Indian automobile segment was expected to close FY 202324 with a growth of 6-9 per cent, despite global supply chain disruptions and rising ownership costs.

The construction sector was expected to grow 10.7 per cent year-on-year from 10 per cent in FY 2023-23. Public administration, defence and other services were estimated to grow by 7.7 per cent in FY 2023-24 compared to 7.2 per cent in FY 2022-23. The growth in gross value added (GVA) at basic prices was pegged at 6.9 per cent, down from 7 per cent in FY 2022-23.

India’s exports of goods and services were expected touch US$ 900 Billion in FY 202324 compared to US$ 770 Billion in the previous year despite global headwinds. Merchandise exports were expected to expand between US$ 495 Billion and US$ 500 Billion, while services exports were expected to touch US$ 400 Billion during the year. India’s net direct tax collection increased 19 per cent to H14.71 Lakh Crore by January 2024. The gross collection was 24.58 per cent higher than the gross collection for the corresponding period of

India reached a pivotal phase in its S-curve, characterized by acceleration in urbanization, industrialization, household

Annual Report 2023-24 | 39

incomes and energy consumption. India emerged as the fifth largest economy with a GDP of US$ 3.6 Trillion and nominal per capita income of H123,945 in FY 2023-24.

India’s Nifty 50 index grew 30 per cent in FY 2023-24 and India’s stock market emerged as the world’s fourth largest with a market capitalization of US$4 Trillion. Foreign investment in Indian government bonds jumped in the last three months of 2023. India was ranked 63 among 190 economies in the ease of doing business, according to the latest World Bank annual ratings. India’s unemployment declined to a low of 3.2 per cent in 2023 from 6.1 per cent in 2018.

Outlook

India withstood global headwinds in 2023 and is likely to remain the world’s fastestgrowing major economy on the back of growing demand, moderate inflation, stable interest rates and robust foreign exchange reserves. The Indian economy is anticipated to surpass US$ 4 Trillion in FY 2024-25.

Union Budget, FY 2024-25

The Interim Union Budget FY 2024-25 retained its focus on capital expenditure spending, comprising investments in infrastructure, solar energy, tourism,

medical ecosystem and technology. In FY 2024-25, the top 13 ministries in terms of allocations accounted for 54 per cent of the estimated total expenditure. Of these, the Ministry of Defence reported the highest allocation at H6,21,541 Crore, accounting for 13 per cent of the total budgeted expenditure of the central government. Other ministries with high allocation included Road transport and highways (5.8 per cent), Railways (5.4 per cent) and Con-sumer Affairs, food and public distribution (4.5 per cent).

(Source: Times News Network, Economic Times, Business Standard, Times of India)

Global pharmaceutical industry overview

The global pharmaceuticals market is projected to generate revenue of US$1,156 Billion in 2024. Looking ahead, the revenue in this sector is anticipated to exhibit an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2028) of 6.19 per cent, resulting in a market volume of US$1,470.00 Billion by 2028. The United State’s revenue stood at US$636.90 Billion in 2024. The pharmaceuticals market in China is expected to achieve a

revenue of US$ 119.00 Billion in 2024. The industry is further anticipated to grow at an annual growth rate of 7.22 per cent CAGR 2024-2028, resulting in a market volume of US$ 157.30 Billion by 2028. This increase in growth outlook is driven by more patients getting treated with better medicines, especially in immunology, endocrinology, and oncology. Global use of medicines grew by 14 per cent over the past five years and a further 12 per cent increase is expected through

2028, bringing annual use to 3.8 Trillion defined daily doses. Global spending on medicine using list prices grew by 35 per cent over the past five years and is forecast to increase by 38 per cent through 2028. The global pharmaceutical industries had a neutral outlook of good growth in 2024, supported by supportive underlying secular trends and a moderating inflationary environment.

(Source: Research and Markets, Statista, IQVIA, Fitch Ratings)

Growth drivers

Growth of the ageing population

The number of people aged 60 and older is expected to grow from 1 Billion in 2020 to 1.4 Billion in 2030 when 1 in 6 people worldwide will be considered elderly.

AI-based tools will accelerate drug discovery

The global market for AI in drug discovery is forecasted to grow from US$ 1.5 Billion in 2023 to US$ 13 Billion by 2032. AI-based solutions in clinical research are projected to exceed 7 Billion U.S. Dollars globally by the end of the decade.

(Source: Forbes, Statista)

Indian pharmaceutical industry overview

The Indian pharmaceutical market was valued at US$ 54.6 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 163.1 Billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 12.3 per cent during 2024-2032. Factors such as the growing burden of diseases, government initiatives for healthcare infrastructure, and increasing health consciousness drive this growth. The Indian pharma industry,

acknowledged as ‘the pharmacy of the world,’ consistently provides medicines globally. Indian pharmaceutical sector supplies over 50 per cent of global demand for various vaccines, 40 per cent of generic demand in the US and 25 per cent of all medicine in the UK. The domestic pharmaceutical industry includes a network of 3,000 drug companies and 10,500 manufacturing units. India enjoys an important position in the global pharmaceuticals sector. The country also

has a large pool of scientists and engineers with the potential to steer the industry ahead to greater heights.

100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the pharmaceutical sector is allowed under the automatic route for greenfield pharmaceuticals. 100 per cent FDI in the pharmaceutical sector is allowed in brownfield pharmaceuticals; wherein 74 per cent is allowed under the automatic route and thereafter through

40 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

the government approval route. The Indian pharmaceutical industry is a prominent player in the global pharmaceutical market, with a market share of 3[rd] worldwide in production volume and

14[th] by value. India is a major exporter of pharmaceuticals, with over 200 countries served by Indian pharma exports. India’s pharmaceutical exports are projected to reach US$28 Billion in FY 2023-24, a

remarkable growth of 10.2 per cent. This surge is largely attributed to the critical drug shortages in the United States and Europe. (Source: IBEF, investindia.gov.in, policycircle.org)

Growth drivers

Riding the wave of biosimilars

By 2030 the global biosimilar market is expected to be worth US$ 60 Billion, and capturing even 10 per cent of this market could grow the Indian pharma industry by 13 per cent. As biosimilars have more complex regulatory pathways than small molecule generics, the industry will have to address quality and compliance issues by deploying India-specific interventions coupled with global best practices to better realize this opportunity.

Innovative drugs and ‘next-gen’ therapies

Indian pharma companies are transitioning to build pipelines of innovative drugs, with three to five new molecular entities launched or in late clinical trial phases each year until 2030. This is expected to boost the industry to reach US$130 Billion. With personalized medicines taking centre stage in treating chronic and rare diseases, the global cell and gene therapies market is expected to grow by over 36 per cent (CAGR) from 2019 to 2025. This presents a growth opportunity for the Indian pharma industry.

World’s reliable drug supplier

Indian pharma imports 60 to 90 per cent of APIs depending on the type of API. This heavy dependence on external sourcing, in addition to the disruption in the supply chains caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to calls for self-sufficiency to enable India to become the world’s most reliable drug supplier. A recent announcement by the government of a US$1.3 Billion investment to develop three mega bulk drug parks, together with production incentive schemes to manufacture 53 critical bulk drugs, should help the industry become more self-reliant over the next five to eight years.

Growth in generic drugs export

India, the world’s largest provider of generic drugs exported pharmaceuticals worth over US$ 25 Billion in the financial year 2023. In terms of volume, Indian drugs constituted 20 per cent of the global generic drug exports, with North America having the largest share.

Strong research and development capabilities

The pharma industry has sought fiscal incentives to promote research and development, as it is likely to reach US$ 400-450 Billion market size by 2047.

(Source: Deloitte, Times of India)

Government initiatives

Liberalized foreign direct investment (FDI) limit : the government has allowed up to 100 per cent FDI through the automatic route for greenfield investments and up to 74 per cent for brownfield investments.

National Pharmaceutical Policy : the policy is being drafted to serve as a comprehensive framework to address the challenges faced by Indian pharmaceutical industries and provide a definitive policy encompasses five key pillars: Fostering global pharmaceutical leadership, promoting self-reliance, advancing health equity and accessibility, enhancing

regulatory efficiency in the Indian pharmaceutical sector and attracting investments.

Scheme for strengthening of the

pharmaceutical industry : the scheme, launched with a total financial outlay of H500 Crore until FY 2025-26, to strengthen the existing pharmaceutical cluster’s capacity by creating common facilities, to facilitate the growth and development of pharmaceutical and medical devise sector and to facilitate MSMEs of a proven track record to meet regulatory standards.

Scheme for promoting research and innovation in the pharma MedTech

sector : the scheme launched in 2023 with a financial outlay of H5000 Crore FY 2027-28, aims to transform the Indian pharma MedTech sector from cost-based to innovation-based growth by promoting industry-academia linkage for R&D in priority areas.

PLI Scheme : The outlay allocation for PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes in the pharmaceutical sector witnessed a significant increase from H1,696 Crore in the FY 2023-24 period to H2,143 Crore in the FY 2024-25 budget recast. This indicates a substantial boost in government support aimed at incentivizing and promoting domestic

Annual Report 2023-24 | 41

pharmaceutical manufacturing. Such allocations are pivotal in fostering growth, innovation, and self-reliance in the pharmaceutical industry, ultimately contributing to the healthcare ecosystem’s development and resilience.

Scheme for promoting bulk drug

parks : The scheme boosts domestic manufacturing of identified KSMs, drug intermediates and APIs by attracting large investments in the sector. Financial assistance up to H1000 Crore will be

provided for the creation of common infrastructure facilities in three bulk drug parks selected in Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh.

(Source: Invest India, Business Line, PIB, India briefing)

Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)

Global active pharmaceutical ingredients industry overview

The active pharmaceutical ingredients market size is estimated at US$ 206.13 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach US$ 304.46 Billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 6.72 per cent during the forecast period 2024-2029. Factors such as the increasing prevalence of infectious, genetic, cardiovascular, and other chronic disorders, increasing adoption of biologics and biosimilars, as well as rising prevalence of cancer and increasing sophistication in

oncology drug research, are expected to boost the market growth over the forecast period.

(Source: Mordor Intelligence)

Indian active pharmaceutical ingredients industry overview

The India active pharmaceutical ingredients market size is estimated at US$ 13.64 Billion for 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 20.32 Billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 8.31 per cent during the forecast period (2024-2029). Such growth

is likely fueled by various factors including increasing demand for generic drugs, a robust pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases requiring medication. India is the 3[rd] largest producer by volume and 14[th] largest by value worldwide. The Indian active pharmaceutical industry has been on an upward trajectory over the past few decades, contributing 1.72 per cent of the GDP of the nation.

(Source: Mordor Intelligence, Invest India)

Nutraceuticals

Global nutraceuticals market overview

The global nutraceuticals market size stood at US$ 317.22 Billion in 2023 and further the global nutraceuticals market size is projected to reach US$ 599.71 Billion

by 2030, powered by ongoing health awareness, global economic shifts, and changing dietary trends. The surge in digital health and e-commerce, alongside the demand for personalized nutrition, will be significant drivers. Key trends driving

this growth include functional beverages, sports nutrition, mental wellness products, immune system support, and a growing focus on gut health.

(Source: Grandviewresearch.com, Research and market)

Growth drivers

Rising metabolic disorders

The prevalence of metabolic disorders is on the rise and this is fueling the growth of the nutraceuticals market. More than 30 per cent of the US population has a metabolic syndrome. This is expected to lead to increased demand for nutraceuticals which, in turn, will fuel market growth.

Sport and health supplements

The nutraceutical industry’s growth is supported by the simultaneous expansion of sports and health supplements. Increasing awareness of health supplement benefits for various medical concerns is driving the demand for nutraceutical products.

(Source: US National Cholesterol Education Program and International Diabetes Federation)

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Indian nutraceuticals market overview

India’s nutraceuticals market size is expected to expand at a CAGR of 29.1 per cent during the forecast period between 2023 and 2029. Having seen

a rapid growth of over 20 per cent during the COVID period, the market for nutraceuticals is expected to double in 5 years in India as a growing number of people are seen adopting these products to boost immunity. Nutraceutical is a broad term that refers to any product derived

from food that provides additional health benefits in addition to the basic nutritional value found in foods. nutraceuticals are non-specific biological remedies used to improve overall health, control symptoms, and prevent cancer.

(Source: The Hindu, Blue weave)

Growth drivers

Increasing demand for functional and healthy foods

Functional foods are gaining popularity among consumers due to their perceived wellness, performance, and health benefits. The demand for functional end products like dairy, bakery, confectionery, snacks, cereals and baby food is increasing as a result of how simple it is to incorporate nutraceutical ingredients into them. Protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals are common fortifications. High-protein foods are currently the real winners, as they gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts. Compared to the baby boomer generation, people today are even more concerned about their health.

Growth of the health-conscious population in India

The market for nutraceuticals is growing as a large chunk of the population is consuming these as dietary supplements. The market for nutritional supplements is anticipated to expand by a com-pounded rate of 50 per cent from US$4 Billion in 2017 to 18 Billion in 2025, according to the national food regulator.

(Source: Blue weave, Hindustan Times)

Biotechnology – enzymes

Global biotechnology market overview

The global enzymes market size was estimated at US$ 60.48 Billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9 per cent from 2024 to 2030. The rising demand for food & beverage products is attributable to the increasing consumer awareness related to one’s health and is expected to positively impact product demand over the forecast period. The U.S. biotechnology market size was valued at US$ 246.18 Billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach around US$763.82 Billion by 2033, poised to grow at a CAGR of 11.90 per cent from 2024 to 2033. The Asia-Pacific is estimated to hit a growth rate of over 12.7 per cent during 2023-2033. The improvement of healthcare infrastructure, clinical trial services, and supportive government regulations are all contributing to the Asia-Pacific

biotechnology market growth. Moreover, the international market players are partnering actively with local companies in order to accelerate the biotechnology market’s growth.

(Source: Grand View Research, Predence Research)

Indian biotechnology market overview

India is the third-largest biotechnology market in the Asia-Pacific region and one of the top 12 globally. The nation controls 3 per cent of the Asia pacific biotechnology market. India is also the world’s second-largest producer of BT cotton and the third-largest producer of the recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine. The biotechnology sector is divided into five segments - biopharmaceuticals, bioservices, bio-agriculture, bio-industrial and bio-IT. India’s bio-economy industry has grown from US$ 10 Billion in 2015 to US$

80 Billion in the last 8 years in 2023. India’s bio-economy is poised to reach US$ 300 Billion by 2030. The Indian biotechnology industry is expected to reach US$ 150 Billion by 2025. By 2025, the vaccination market in India is projected to be worth US$ 3.04 Billion.

(Source: IBEF, Invest India, Business Standard, PIB)

Environmental solution overview

Environmental solution services have become a dynamic and rapidly growing segment of the environmental industry. The demand for these services has surged in recent years, driven by increasingly stringent standards and regulations to address global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion and waste generation. These services improve public health by reducing exposure to harmful pollutants, ensure the sustainable use

Annual Report 2023-24 | 43

of natural resources, protect ecosystems and biodiversity, and enhance resilience against climate impacts. By promoting green infrastructure and sustainable practices, environmental solution services contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

The demand for environmental solutions industries is growing as societies

Indian real-estate sector overview

In 2023, the real estate industry In India market size reached US$ 0.25 Trillion. The real estate sector in India is expected to reach US$ 1 Trillion in market size by 2030, up from US$ 200 Billion in 2021 and contribute 13 per cent to the country’s GDP by 2025. Retail, hospitality, and commercial real estate are also growing

Company overview

Fermenta Biotech Limited, an established enterprise with a rich seven-decade history, operates across diverse sectors, including pharmaceuticals, animal feed, nutrition, integrated biotech, environmental solutions and real estate. A key focal point of Fermenta’s expertise lies in the comprehensive manufacturing of Vitamin D3. The Company maintains a sustainable supply chain, providing a notable advantage in the contemporary global market.

Fermenta’s array of Vitamin D3 variants is finely balanced to meet the requirements of both human and animal nutrition, rendering them applicable across a broad spec-trum of uses. In addition to Vitamin

worldwide seek cleaner air, water and land. With increasing concerns about climate change and pollution, these industries are crucial for managing waste, conserving resources, and developing sustainable energy sources. They are essential for improving public health and ensuring a better quality of life for future generations by addressing environmental challenges effectively. The development of new

significantly, providing the much-needed infrastructure for India’s growing needs. Further the India’s real estate sector is expected to expand to US$ 5.8 Trillion by 2047, contributing 15.5 per cent to the GDP from an existing share of 7.3 per cent. The sale of luxury homes in India increased by 130 per cent in 2023 compared to the previous year. In the Union Budget FY 2023-24, a commitment of H79,000

D3 products, Fermenta engages in the production of APIs for muscle relaxants and anti-flatulent applications. The Company also pioneers the development of innovative enzymes crucial for manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients, alongside offering environmental solutions for wastewater treatment and management.

The strategic possession of legacy properties in Thane and Worli, Mumbai, serves as a lucrative source of income for Fermenta. This supplementary revenue stream complements the core business activities, reinforcing the Company’s financial position. Through a development agreement with Mextech Property Developers LLP, Fermenta is poised to

technologies has also significantly boosted international trade in environmental services. Innovations such as providing environmental solution services online and the remote monitoring of renewable energy systems have facilitated the crossborder supply of these services, enhancing their accessibility and efficiency.

(Source: World Trade Organisation)

Crore US$ for PM Awas Yojana has been announced, which represents a 66 per cent increase compared to last year. Factors like government policies, technological advancements, sustainable practices, rising demand for housing, and regulatory measures like RERA are pivotal in shaping the current real estate sector

(Source: Mordor Intelligence, IBEF, Economic Times)

construct residential-cum-commercial buildings on its free-hold Thane land and would acquire affordable luxury residential apartments from Mextech on an areasharing basis.

Furthermore, the Company has undertaken sale transactions for its IT/ ITES building, Thane One. As of the report date, Fermenta has successfully divested a significant portion of the IT/ITES building to third parties. The proceeds from these transactions were judiciously utilized to retire outstanding loans associated with the IT/ITES building.

Areas that we aim to grow in

Rice fortification

Rice fortification is a process of adding more micronutrients to increase the nutritional value of rice. It helps in making the food healthier and the taste is similar compared to normal rice. Fortified rice has been developed to meet the malnutrition problem in India.

Milk fortification

India is the largest producer of milk in the world with a production of 230.58 Million Tonnes. Fortified milk is enriched with vitamins A and D with other nutrients to cater for the dietary requirements of India.

Edible oil fortification

The nutrition-enriched edible oil is getting popular due to the wide use of cooking oil is a cost-efficient way of adding nutrients to edible items and thus all kinds of edible oils can be easily fortified to meet the desired nutrition requirement.

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Our strengths

Established track record and strong R&D

The Company meets its growing demand by consistently demonstrating its expertise. The Company has its own well-established research and development (R&D) team to enhance its process and product technologies.

Established clientele in the domestic and export markets

Fermenta is a preferred vendor for various pharmaceutical multinationals worldwide and the Company has a reputed client base in the pharmaceutical industry. The Company has expanded its export market presence since 2010 with well-established Vitamin D3 variants exported to 60 countries, including the USA, UK, New Zealand, Australia and the European Union.

Market leader

Fermenta is one of the three global players to receive a certificate of suitability from the European Directorate for the quality of medicines and it has a leadership position in the Vitamin D3 segment. To meet the increasing demand for Vitamin D3, the Company has focused on expanding its production capacity.

Risk management

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----- Start of picture text -----

Geographical risk The revenue generation potential can be Mitigation : With a network of around 60 countries the
restricted during localized slowdown to a few effects of localized slow-down can be taken care of in
geographies which could hamper the growth any one location, and the Company is also expanding
of the Company. its presence in other geographical areas.
Regulatory risk Regulatory environment changes might cause Mitigation : By maintaining proper and constant
operational disruption. communication with regulatory agencies to
comprehend the effects of any changes to take
corrective measures and to minimize operational
disruptions. The Company checks the consistency of
the relevant rules for all its operations.
Finance risk The inability to acquire long-term funds could Mitigation : The Company maintains a healthy balance
hamper its expansion and reinvestment plans sheet to support its expansion and reinvestment plans
of the Company. and its net debt-equity ratio stood at 0.42 as of March
31, 2024; average cost of funds stood at 0.79 per cent.
The Company continuously explores funding options
and maintains a healthy balance sheet to support its
expansion and rein-vestment plans. Various financial
ratios of the Company are stated in the financial
statements forming part of this Annual Report.
Environment risk The business might affect the environmental Mitigation : The Company is involved in activities
ecosystem which can cause possible that safeguard the relevant laws for the environment.
disruption to the Company’s operation. The objectives include arranging training courses on
environmental topics, developing technology and
providing information on operations with significant
environmental impacts. The Company is dedicated to
lowering its carbon footprint.
Competition risk The entry of new players can hamper the Mitigation : The Company mainly trades in markets
Company’s business. with entry barriers. The Company also focuses on R&D
and innovation to develop products and services that
offer value to customers. The Company maintains its
long-term relationships with customers by offering
quality products and services.
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Annual Report 2023-24 | 45

Internal control systems and their adequacy

Fermenta has some of the best internal control procedures in place that are commensurate with size and operations. The Board of Directors is responsible for the internal control system and sets the guidelines to ensure its efficiency adequacy, effectiveness, verifiability and application. The Company aim to provide correct reliable management and accounting information. The Company is involved in managing the risks including those related to operations, compliance and finance. A robust internal control system is built to achieve the objectives and ensure accountability. It helps to prevent fraud and errors and enhance the reliability of financial reporting.

Human resources

Fermenta’s human resource practices have reinforced its leadership in the market. Fermenta is involved in giving on-the-job learning to enhance the skills and knowledge of its employees. Fermenta prioritizes engagement with the employees by providing a challenging workplace for the professional growth of its employees. Identifying and developing employees with the required potential strengthens the prospects for the long-term success of the Company. This approach not only benefits the Company but also provides opportunities for professional growth and advancement for employees. The employee strength of Fermenta stood at 558 as of March 31, 2024.

Cautionary statement

This statements made in this section describes the Company’s objectives, projections, expectations and estimations which may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and regulations.

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46 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Board’s Report

The Board of Directors ( ‘Board’ ) of your Company is pleased to present the 72[nd] Annual Report along with the Audited financial statements for the financial year 2023-24 ( ‘FY 2023-24’ ).

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Total Revenue
Total Expenditure
Proft/ (Loss) before tax and Exceptional Items
Exceptional Items
Proft/ (Loss) before Tax
Less: Tax expense/(income)
(Loss)/Proft for theyear
Total other comprehensive (loss)/income for theyear
Total comprehensive (loss)/proft for theyear
Standalone results
2023-24
2022-23
31,524.46
33,737.66
31,085.22
33,576.46
439.24
161.20
(900.00)
(5,958.92)
(460.76)
(5,797.72)
1,413.57
(97.40)
(1,874.33)
(5,700.32)
19.03
17.26
(1,855.30)
(5,683.06)
Consolidated results
2023-24
2022-23
34,747.02
35,853.68
34,991.98
38,136.52
(244.66)
(2,282.84)
(742.64)
(2,847.68)
(987.30)
(5,130.52)
1,413.57
182.65
(2,400.87)
(5,313.17)
(15.42)
(147.48)
(2,416.29)
(5,460.65)
Consolidated results
2023-24
2022-23
34,747.02
35,853.68
34,991.98
38,136.52
(244.66)
(2,282.84)
(742.64)
(2,847.68)
(987.30)
(5,130.52)
1,413.57
182.65
(2,400.87)
(5,313.17)
(15.42)
(147.48)
(2,416.29)
(5,460.65)
2023-24 2023-24 2022-23
31,524.46 34,747.02 35,853.68
31,085.22 34,991.98 38,136.52
439.24 (244.66) (2,282.84)
(900.00) (742.64) (2,847.68)
(460.76) (987.30) (5,130.52)
1,413.57 1,413.57 182.65
(1,874.33) (2,400.87) (5,313.17)
19.03 (15.42) (147.48)
(1,855.30) (2,416.29) (5,460.65)

FINANCIAL RESULTS AND OPERATIONS OF THE COMPANY

During the year under review, the Company on a standalone basis registered total income of H31,524.46 Lakhs (Previous Financial year H33,737.66 Lakhs) and loss of H1,874.33 Lakhs as against loss of H5,700.32 Lakhs in financial year 2022-23 (FY2022-23), based on the performance of the Company.

In view of above, no amount was transferred to reserves for the year under review.

On a Consolidated basis, the Company in FY 2023-24 recorded total income of H34,747.02 Lakhs (Previous Year H35,853.68 Lakhs) and loss of H2,400.87 Lakhs as against loss of H5,313.17 Lakhs in the corresponding FY 2022-23.

DIVIDEND

The Board of Directors has recommended a final equity dividend of H1.25 (25%) per equity share for FY 2023-24 (Previous year H1.25 i.e., 25% per equity share) for members’ approval. The final equity dividend, if approved by the members at the 72[nd] Annual General Meeting ( ‘AGM’ ), will result in a cash outflow of H36,788,733.75. The said dividend recommendation is in accordance with the Dividend Distribution Policy of the Company which is available on the website of the Company at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The consolidated financial statements of the Company for FY 202324 ( ‘CFS’ ) include financials of its subsidiaries ( ‘Subsidiaries’ ) i.e. Fermenta Biotech (UK) Limited (United Kingdom), Fermenta Biotech GmbH (Germany), Fermenta USA LLC (USA) and Fermenta Biotech USA LLC (USA). The CFS of the Company and its Subsidiaries

are prepared in accordance with the relevant Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) notified under the Company (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015 and other applicable provisions. The Company has investment in an associate company i.e. Health and Wellness India Private Limited (refer note 9A of the consolidated financial statements) and the said associate company is under liquidation. CFS together with Auditors’ Report thereon forms part of this Annual Report.

SCHEME OF AMALGAMATION AND SHARE CAPITAL:

As intimated earlier, the National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai Bench ( ‘NCLT’ ) vide its order dated May 08, 2023, approved the Composite Scheme of Amalgamation and Arrangement amongst DVK Investments Private Limited ( ‘Transferor Company 1’ ) and Aegean Properties Limited ( ‘Transferor Company 2’ ) and Fermenta Biotech Limited ( ‘Transferee Company’ or ‘Company’ ) and their respective Shareholders ( ‘Scheme’ ). Pursuant to the Scheme and alongwith the extinguishment of Paid-up Share Capital (150,75,318 equity shares) of Transferor Company 1, (i) the Company issued and allotted 150,75,318 equity shares of face value of H5/- each, fully paid-up, to the members of the Transferor Company 1; (ii) the Authorised Share Capital of the Company increased to H31,83,00,000 (divided into 6,35,00,000 equity shares of H5/- each and 1,60,000 unclassified shares of H5/- each), effective May 24, 2023. The Paid-up share capital of the Company remains unchanged.

SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES

The individual financial statements of the Company’s Subsidiaries are not attached to the financial statements of the Company for FY 2023-24. The financial information of the Company’s Subsidiaries provided in this Section, shall be read with the information provided

Annual Report 2023-24 | 47

under the heading ‘Consolidated Financial Statements’ in this report. In accordance with the provisions of Sub-Section (3) of Section 129 of the Companies Act, 2013 ( ‘Act’ ), read with Rule 5 and Rule 8 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 (as amended from time to time), a separate statement containing salient features of the financial statements of Company’s Subsidiaries/Associate in Form AOC-1 is attached to this report as Annexure I and forms part of this Board’s report. The audited accounts of the Company’s Subsidiaries and standalone and consolidated financial statements of the Company are available at the Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech. com/annual-report.php. Members may write to the Company on [email protected] for a copy of separate financial statements of Company’s subsidiary(ies).

The name of the Company’s subsidiary G I Biotech Private Limited (CIN U24230MH2004PTC148220) was struck off from the register of Companies by the Registrar of Companies, Mumbai, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs ( ‘MCA’ ) pursuant to the strike-off application dated February 14, 2023.

Further, pursuant to the aforesaid Scheme coming into force w.e.f. May 24, 2023, the Company’s Holding company, DVK Investments Private Limited and the Company’s subsidiary, Aegean Properties Limited ceased to exist.

MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS (MD&A)

During FY 2023-24, the Company engaged in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and marketing Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients ( ‘APIs’ ), biotechnology and environmental solutions and renting of properties. MD&A covering details of the business of the Company is provided in Corporate Overview section and forms part of this report.

INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS AND RISK MANAGEMENT

Your Company has developed and implemented risk management policy in order to identify, analyse and address potent risks in a systematic manner. It also maintains adequate internal control systems, commensurate to its size and nature of operations. Periodical reporting(s), compliance with applicable laws and Company’s procedures are duly complied with.

Defined processes and checks including risk control matrix in relation to internal financial control are in place. Company’s internal team reviews various risk audit control matrices including for capex, logistics, human resource and payroll, treasury, financial statements closure policy, inventory production, order to cash, taxation, procure to pay, on regular intervals.

The Company’s internal control systems are routinely reviewed and certified by Statutory Auditors and Internal Auditors. During FY 2023-24, the Company’s Internal Auditors, M. M. Nissim & Co., Chartered Accountants (ICAI Firm Registration No: 107122W/ W100672), conducted and reported the effectiveness and efficiency of internal control system including adherence to procedures as per the policies of the Company and regulatory requirements as well.

The Company has an experienced and qualified finance department which plays an important role in implementing and monitoring the internal control procedures and compliance with statutory requirements. The Audit Committee and the Board of Directors review the report(s) of the independent Internal Auditors at regular intervals along with the adequacy, effectiveness and observations of the Internal Auditors regarding internal control system and recommends improvements and remedial measures, wherever necessary. The Company has implemented the provisions of Regulation 21 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 ( ‘Listing Regulations’ ).

HUMAN RESOURCES

The information required under sub-rule (1) of rule 5 and sub-rule (2) of rule 5 of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 read with Sub-Section (12) of Section 197 of the Act in respect of employee remuneration and other details forms part of this report and provided as Annexure II . Other applicable information for the above provisions will be made available to the members upon their request.

The Company had a headcount of 558 employees as on the end of FY 2023-24. The Company maintained cordial relations with its employees at all locations.

Employee Stock Options

During FY 2023-24, the Company has not granted any options under ‘Fermenta Biotech Limited- Employee Stock Option Plan 2019’ ( ‘ESOP 2019’ ).

Disclosures pursuant to Regulation 14 of the SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 are provided as at Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/ investor_relations.php

PREVENTION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE

In accordance with the provisions of Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 and the Rules framed thereunder ( ‘POSH’ ) as amended from time to time, the Company has formulated a code on ‘Redressal of Grievances Regarding Sexual Harassment’ for redressal of grievances and to protect women against any harassment. The Internal Committee has been duly constituted in all locations of the Company in terms of the POSH Act and rules. The Company is committed to providing a safe and conducive work environment to all its employees and associates.

Details of complaints during the year under review.

a. Number of complaints fled duringthe fnancialyear Nil
b. Number of complaints disposed of during the fnancial
year
Nil
c. Number of complaints pending as on end of the
fnancialyear
Nil

48 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (‘IT’)

The Company uses industry leading IT infrastructure and software application to ensure that the information flow is seamless and it helps business to take timely decisions and actions. In FY 202324, the Company has upgraded its ERP to most suitable higher version. This allows to make use of the latest functionalities of ERP. The upgrade project went on flawlessly without any unplanned disruptions to the business activities. The Company’s IT team plays a crucial role to support functioning of various departments and facilities of the Company and has also contributed in successful completion of various regulatory audits. IT also ensures business continuity through data security. In this respect, the data back-up and safety procedures are in place. Employees are key for ensuring of information security and hence their awareness is initiated during onboarding induction training itself.

DEPOSITS

In FY 2023-24, your Company has not accepted any deposits under Section 73 of the Act including rules framed thereunder. There is no deposit with the Company which is not in compliance with the requirements of Chapter V of the Act. No principal or interest on deposit has remained unpaid or unclaimed as on March 31, 2024.

CREDIT RATING

During FY 2023-24, there was a revision in Company credit rating issued by CARE Ratings Limited. As on March 31, 2024, the credit rating was as mentioned below.

  • I. Long-term Bank Facilities: CARE BBB; Outlook: Negative (Triple B; Outlook: Negative) [Revised from CARE BBB+; Outlook: Negative (Triple B Plus; Outlook: Negative)]

  • II. Short-term Banking Facilities: CARE A3 (A Three) [Revised from CARE A3+ (A Three Plus)]

DIRECTORS

Independent Directors:

Independent Directors have made relevant declarations to the Company including confirmation(s) that the conditions of independence laid down in Sub-Section (6) of Section 149 of the Act and Regulation 25 of the Listing Regulations are duly complied. In the opinion of the Board, the Independent Directors of the Company possess necessary integrity, proficiency, expertise and experience.

Directors, and Key Managerial Personnel (‘KMP’):

The members of the Company appointed Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan (DIN: 00200067) as an Independent Director w.e.f. February 12, 2024.

Mr. Sanjay Buch (DIN: 00391436) retired as an Independent Director w.e.f. April 1, 2024, pursuant to completion of his second term as an Independent Director in accordance with the provisions of the Act, and consequently, he also ceased to be the Chairman w.e.f. April 1, 2024. The Board of Directors appointed Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan as the Chairman w.e.f. April 01, 2024.

Mr. Vinayak Hajare (DIN: 00004635) and Dr. Gopakumar Nair (DIN: 00092637) also retired as Independent Directors w.e.f. April 1, 2024 and w.e.f. May 17, 2024 respectively, pursuant to completion of their second term as Independent Director in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

Your Directors wish to place on records their appreciation to Mr. Buch, Mr. Hajare and Dr. Nair for the valuable contribution and guidance made during their tenure as Independent Directors of the Company.

The Board has recommended for members’ approval by way of postal ballot the reappointment of Mr. Krishna Datla (DIN: 00003247) as a Whole-time Director of the Company, designated as Executive Vice-Chairman, for a period of 3 (three) years w.e.f. May 9, 2024 and of Mr. Prashant Nagre (DIN: 09165447) as Managing Director of the Company for a period of 3 (three) years w.e.f. May 9, 2024, as per the postal ballot notice dated May 6, 2024.

In accordance with provisions of the Act and the Articles of Association of the Company, Mr. Satish Varma (DIN: 00003255) is retiring by rotation at the 72[nd] AGM, and being eligible, has offered himself for reappointment. In accordance with the requirements of regulation 17(1A) of Listing Regulations, the members’ approval is sought for in the ensuing AGM for continuation of Ms. Rajeshwari Datla (DIN: 00046864) as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Directors of the Company after attaining Seventy Five (75) years of her age on April 1, 2025. Brief profile of Ms. Rajeshwari Datla and Mr. Satish Varma is provided alongwith the notes to the AGM notice which forms part of this Annual Report.

The Board appointed Mr. Varadvinayak Khambete as the Compliance Officer of the Company pursuant to Regulation 6 of Listing Regulations, Regulation 9 of SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015 and other applicable statutory provisions, with effect from February 12, 2024 in place of Mr. Srikant Sharma. Mr. Srikant Sharma continues to be the Company Secretary (Key Managerial Personnel) of the Company as per Section 203 and other related provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and provisions of Listing Regulations.

Except as mentioned above, no Director or KMP has resigned or is appointed during FY 2023-24.

ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE BOARD, ITS COMMITTEES AND INDIVIDUAL DIRECTORS

Details of the annual performance evaluation are provided in the Corporate Governance Report, attached as Annexure III to this report.

AUDITORS

The Company appointed S R B C & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (ICAI Firm Registration No: 324982E/E300003) as the Statutory Auditors of the Company ( ‘SRBC’ ) at its 70[th] AGM held on August 12, 2022 for a term of five consecutive years from the conclusion of 70[th] AGM till the conclusion of 75[th] AGM of the Company to be held in the year 2027.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 49

SRBC has issued Auditors’ Reports with unmodified opinion on the Audited Financial Statements (Standalone and Consolidated) for FY 2023-24. Auditors have not reported any offence or incident pertaining to Sub-Section (12) of Section 143 of the Act.

SECRETARIAL AUDIT REPORTS AND COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE

During FY 2023-24, Mr. Pradeep Purwar from Purwar & Purwar Associates LLP resigned as Secretarial Auditor of the Company for the financial year 2023-24. In terms of Section 204 of the Act read with Rule 9 of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 and regulation 24A of Listing Regulations, Mr. Vinayak Deodhar (FCS No. 1880, COP No. 898) from V. N. Deodhar & Co., Company Secretaries ( ‘Secretarial Auditor’ ), was appointed to conduct the Secretarial Audit of the Company for FY 2023-24.

The Secretarial Auditor has submitted: (a) an unqualified Secretarial Audit report (annexed to this report as Annexure V) ; and (b) a certificate confirming that none of the directors on the Board of the Company has been debarred or disqualified from being appointed or continuing as directors of the Company by any statutory authority (annexed to this report as Annexure VI ); and the said annexures form part of this report.

The Secretarial Auditor has issued Secretarial Compliance Report under regulation 24A of Listing Regulations for FY 2023-24 which has been filed with the BSE Limited within the statutory time period.

COST AUDITORS

Pursuant to the provisions of Sub-Section (1) of Section 148 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014 (as amended from time to time), the Company is required to maintain the cost records, and conduct the cost audit in respect of applicable products manufactured by the Company for the year under review.

Joshi Apte & Associates, Cost Accountants (Firm Registration Number–00240) ( ‘Cost Auditors’ ) issued an unqualified cost audit report for the FY 2022-23 and the same was filed with MCA within the due date.

The Cost Auditor will issue the Cost Audit Report for FY 2023-24 and the same will be reviewed and considered by the Board and then filed with MCA within the stipulated timeline.

On the recommendation of the Audit Committee, the Board of Directors appointed Joshi Apte & Associates, Cost Accountants (Firm Registration Number–00240), as the Cost Auditor of the Company for the financial year ending on March 31, 2025, to conduct the cost audit in respect of applicable products manufactured by the Company.

Pursuant to the provisions of Sub-Section (3) of Section 148 of the Act read with Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014 (as amended from time to time), members’ consent is sought for payment of remuneration to the Cost Auditor for FY 2024-25, as mentioned in item no. 5 to the Notice of 72[nd] AGM of the Company.

DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

Pursuant to provisions of Sub-Section (5) of Section 134 of the Act, with respect to Directors’ Responsibility Statement for the year under review, it is hereby confirmed that:

  • (a) in the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicable accounting standards had been followed along with proper explanation relating to material departures.

  • (b) the directors had selected such accounting policies and applied them consistently and made judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company at the end of the financial year and of the profit and loss of the Company for that period.

  • (c) the directors had 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 had prepared the annual accounts on a going concern basis.

  • (e) the directors had laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the Company and that such internal financial controls are adequate and were operating effectively; and

  • (f) the directors had devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating effectively.

ANNUAL RETURN

Pursuant to Sub-Section (3) of Section 92 read with clause (a) of Sub-Section (3) of Section 134 of the Act, a copy of Annual Return as on March 31, 2024, is available on the Company’s website at https:// www.fermentabiotech.com/annual-returns.php

CODE OF CONDUCT

In accordance with provisions of Listing Regulations, the Company has formulated a Code of Conduct applicable to the Board Members and the Senior Management Personnel. The said Code of Conduct has been uploaded on the website of the Company at: https:// fermentabiotech.com/policies.php All the members of the Board of Directors and the Senior Management Personnel has affirmed annual compliance with the Code of Conduct, as on March 31, 2024.

Pursuant to SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company, inter-alia , adopted a Code of Conduct to regulate, monitor and report trading by insiders and Code of Practices and Procedures for Fair Disclosure of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information, as amended from time to time. Codes adopted by the Company pursuant to SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015, as amended from time to time, are displayed on the Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech. com/policies.php Mr. Varadvinayak Khambete is the Compliance Officer for the said Code of Conduct.

50 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

NOMINATION AND REMUNERATION POLICY

In accordance with Sub-Section (4) of Section 178 of the Act, the Nomination and Remuneration Policy ( ‘Remuneration Policy’ ) of the Company, is available on Company’s website at https:// fermentabiotech.com/policies.php. The salient features of the Nomination and Remuneration Policy, inter alia, are: (a) Objectives, (b) Matters to be recommended by the Committee to the Board, (c) Criteria for appointment of Director / KMP / Senior management, (d) Additional Criteria for Appointment of Independent Directors, (e) Appointment and Remuneration of Directors, (f) Policy on Board Diversity, (g) Appointment, removal, and Remuneration of KMP / Senior management and other employees of the Company, (h) Criteria for Evaluation of Independent Director and the Board, (i) Succession planning for appointment to the Board of Directors and Senior Management, (j) Directors’ and Officers’ (D & O) Liability Insurance.

PARTICULARS OF LOANS, GUARANTEES OR INVESTMENTS

Details of any loans or guarantees provided or investments made by the Company covered under the provisions of Section 186 of the Act and Rules made thereunder during FY 2023-24 are as provided in the financial statements.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Company has Related Party transactions Policy ( ‘RPT Policy’ ) in place. All related party transactions ( ‘RPTs’ ) entered during FY 202324 were on an arm’s length basis and in the ordinary course of business. All RPTs and subsequent material modifications thereto are placed before the Audit Committee for review and approval. Prior omnibus approval is obtained for RPTs which were repetitive in nature.

During FY 2023-24, the Company has not entered into any material related party transaction as per the provisions of the Act and RPT Policy. In view of this, disclosure in form AOC-2 is not applicable. The brief particulars of the Company’s Policy on dealing with RPTs are covered in Corporate Governance report. The RPT policy is available on Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies. php

ENERGY CONSERVATION, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS AND OUTGO

Information as per clause (m) of Sub-Section (3) of Section 134 of the Act read with Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 (as amended from time to time) forms part of this report and is given in Annexure VII to this report.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT

The Corporate Governance Report pursuant to Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of Listing Regulations and the Corporate Governance Compliance Certificate issued by Mr. Vinayak Deodhar

(FCS No. 1880, COP No. 898) from V. N. Deodhar & Co., Company Secretaries, for the FY 2023-24 are provided as Annexure III and Annexure IV respectively and form part of this report. Mandatory details including number of Board meetings, board diversity and expertise, composition of the Audit Committee and establishment of Vigil Mechanism as required under the Act are provided in the Corporate Governance Report. All mandatory recommendations made by the committee(s) were accepted by the Board of Directors.

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (‘CSR’)

Based on CSR committee’s recommendations and as per the CSR Policy of the Company, the Board approved the CSR activities vis-a-vis Annual Action Plan, amount to be spent on CSR activities, implementation and monitoring of the same for the FY 2023-24. Annual report on CSR activities of the Company for FY 2023-24 including composition of the CSR Committee is provided in Annexure VIII to this report and forms part of this report.

BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT (‘BRSR’)

BRSR under Regulation 34 of Listing Regulations is provided in Annexure IX to this report and forms part of this report.

DETAILS OF SIGNIFICANT AND MATERIAL ORDERS PASSED BY THE REGULATORS OR COURTS OR TRIBUNALS IMPACTING THE GOING CONCERN STATUS AND COMPANY’S OPERATIONS IN FUTURE

During FY 2023-24, there was no significant and material order passed by the Regulators or Courts or Tribunals impacting the going concern status and Company’s operations.

OTHER DISCLOSURES:

During FY 2023-24:

  • I. There has been no change in the nature of business of the Company, as on the date of this Report;

  • II. No application was made or any proceedings were pending under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016;

  • III. Valuation related details for FY 2023-24 in respect of one-time settlement of loan from the Banks or Financial Institutions were not applicable;

  • IV. No shares with differential voting rights and sweat equity shares have been issued; and

  • V. There were no material changes and commitments affecting the financial position of the Company between the end of the financial year and the date of this Report.

SECRETARIAL STANDARDS

During FY 2023-24, the Company has complied with the provisions of applicable Secretarial Standards issued by the Council of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India and approved by the Central Government.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 51

DETAILS OF SHARES IN DEMATERIALISATION (DEMAT) SUSPENSE ACCOUNT/ UNCLAIMED SUSPENSE ACCOUNT

Pursuant to Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of Listing Regulations, the details of the shares in the Dematerialization Suspense Account/ Unclaimed Suspense Account for FY 2023-24 are as follows:

Aggregate number of
shareholders and the
outstanding shares in
the Suspense Account
lying at the beginning
of theyear
Number of
shareholders who
approached the
Company for transfer of
shares from Suspense
Account during theyear
Number of
shareholders to whom
shares were transferred
from Suspense Account
during the year
Aggregate number of
shareholders and the
outstanding shares in
the Suspense Account
lying at the end of the
year
That the voting rights
on these shares shall
remain frozen till the
rightful owner of such
shares claims the
shares.
179 number of
shareholders and 68,550
EquityShares ofH5 each
5 5 174 number of
shareholders and 64,518
EquityShares ofH5 each
64,518 Equity Shares of
H5 each

TRANSFER OF SHARES TO INVESTOR EDUCATION AND PROTECTION FUND (IEPF)

The details and other information regarding unclaimed equity dividend that has been transferred to IEPF (upto FY 2015-16) are provided in the Notes Section to the Notice of 72[nd] AGM.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Board of Directors would like to express its appreciation to the employees of the Company at all levels, members, bankers, financial institutions, regulatory bodies and other business associates for their support during the year under review.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

Statements in this report including Management Discussion and Analysis describing the Company’s objectives, projections, estimates, expectations, or predictions and/or in this report may be ‘forward-looking statements’ within the meaning of applicable laws and regulations. The actual results may differ materially from those expressed in the statements.

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors

Pradeep M. Chandan Chairman May 27, 2024, Thane (DIN: 0200067)

Registered Office:

A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) – 400 610 Maharashtra, India.

52 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

(HIn Lakhs) Fermenta USA LLC 03.12.2020 - US Dollar $ (Exchange Rate:
1 USD = 83.40 INR for Assets
& Liabilities, and 83.80 INR for
Proft and Loss account as on
31.03.2024)
961.79 (1870.66) 938.67 1159.72 - 2745.67 (983.45) - (983.42) - 52% Subsidiary of Fermenta
Biotech USA LLC
1.
Names of subsidiaries which are yet to commence operations: N.A.
2.
Names of subsidiaries which have been liquidated or sold during the year: Aegean Properties Limited (Amalgamated with the Company efective May 24, 2023). G I Biotech Private
Limited (Struck of)
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC 27.05.2020 - US Dollar $ (Exchange Rate:
1 USD = 83.40 INR for Assets
& Liabilities, and 82.80 INR for
Proft and Loss account as on
31.03.2024)
1184.72 (192.17) 1873.33 762.73 1061.05 38.82 (59.58) - (59.58) - 100%
Fermenta Biotech (UK)
Limited
10.09.2002 - Pound Sterling £ (Exchange
Rate: 1 GBP = 105.14 INR for
Assets & Liabilities, and 1 GBP
= 104.10 for Proft and Loss
account as on 31.03.2024)
183.59 (149.16) 42.30 7.86 - - (0.03) - (0.03) - 100%
Fermenta Biotech GmbH 05.09.2019 - Euro € (Exchange Rate: 1
Euro = 89.91 INR for Assets
& Liabilities, and 1 Euro =
89.79 INR for Proft and Loss
account as on 31.03.2024)
831.21 (5259.53) 853.38 5281.70 - 745.29 (927.62) - (927.62) - 100%
Particulars Name of the subsidiary: The date since when subsidiary was acquired Reporting period for the subsidiary concerned, if
diferent from the holding company’s reporting period
Reporting currency and Exchange rate as on the
last date of the relevant Financial year in the case of
foreign subsidiaries
Share Capital Reserves & Surplus Total Assets Total Liabilities Investments Turnover (Loss)/Proft before taxation Provision for taxation (Loss)/Proft after taxation Proposed Dividend Extent of shareholding (%)
Sl.
No.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 53

Part “B”: Associates and Joint Ventures

Statement pursuant to Section 129 (3) of the Companies Act, 2013 related to Associate Companies and Joint Ventures

Name of Associates Health and Wellness India Private Ltd.
Name of Joint Ventures -
1. Latest audited Balance Sheet Date 31.03.2018
2. Date on which the Associate or Joint Venture was associated or acquired 02.02.2011
3. Shares of Associate/Joint Ventures held bythe Companyon theyear end
Number 30,12,504 EquityShares
Amount of Investment in Associates/Joint Venture (HIn Lakhs) 475.00
Extent of Holding(%) 47.15%
4. Description of how there is signifcant infuence -
5. Reason whythe associate/joint venture is not consolidated Beingan Associate
6.
Net worth attributable to Shareholdingasper latest audited Balance Sheet
-
7. Proft / Loss for theyear (HIn Lakhs) -
Considered in Consolidation (HIn Lakhs) -
Not considered in Consolidation (HIn Lakhs) -

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors

May 27, 2024, Thane Registered Office: A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) – 400 610 Maharashtra, India.

Pradeep M. Chandan Chairman (DIN: 0200067)

54 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Annexure II

Statement of Disclosure of Remuneration as required under Section 197(12) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(1) and (2) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014

Information under rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014

1. The ratio of the remuneration of each director to the median remuneration of the employees of the Company for the financial year 2023-24:

Sr.no. Name Designation Ratio of remuneration of director to
median Remuneration of employees
1. Mr. Krishna Datla Executive Vice-Chairman 35.26
2. Mr. Satish Varma Executive Director 24.17
3. Ms. Anupama Datla Desai Executive Director 17.79
4. Mr. Prashant Nagre ManagingDirector 27.42

2. Percentage increase in remuneration of each director, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Company Secretary or Manager, if any, in the financial year 2023-24:

Sr.no. Name Designation % Increase / Decrease
1. Mr. Krishna Datla Executive Vice-Chairman -10%
2. Ms. Anupama Datla Desai Executive Director -10%
3. Mr. Satish Varma Executive Director -10%
4. Mr. Prashant Nagre ManagingDirector -10%
5. Mr. Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Ofcer -9%
6. Mr. Srikant Sharma CompanySecretary -7%

3. Percentage increase in the median remuneration of employees in the financial year 2023-24 : (12.60)

4. Number of permanent employees on the rolls of the Company : 558

5. Average percentile increase already made in the salaries of 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 the managerial remuneration:

there are any exceptional circumstances for increase in the managerial remuneration:
% increase made in the salaries of employees other than the managerialpersonnel: 0.00%
% increase in the managerial remuneration: 0.00%

6. Affirmation that the remuneration is as per the remuneration policy of the Company : Yes

Annual Report 2023-24 | 55

Information under rule 5(2) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 (FY 2023-24)

Name Mr. Krishna Datla Mr. Satish Varma Ms. Anupama Datla
Desai
Mr. Prashant Nagre
Designation Executive Vice-Chairman Executive Director Executive Director ManagingDirector
Remuneration received (H) 21,106,395.00 15,392,551.00 10,938,132.00 16,111,155.00
Nature of employment,
whether contractual or
otherwise
Contractual Contractual Contractual Contractual
Qualifcations and
Experience
B.Com.
Over 23 years of
experience
Computer Science
Over 29 years of
experience
Post-Graduate in
Biotechnology from
Mumbai University and
Science Graduate from
the Boston College, USA
Over 17 years of
experience
B.Pharm, Post Graduate
Diploma in Foreign Trade,
Post Graduate Diploma
in International Trade,
Masters in Management
Science
Over 34 years of
experience
Date of commencement of
employment
09.05.2021 as Whole-time
Director designated as
Executive Vice-Chairman
27.09.2019 as Executive
Director
27.09.2019 as Executive
Director
09.05.2021 as Managing
Director
Age (Years) 43 54 45 53
Last employment - Erstwhile Fermenta
Biotech Limited
Erstwhile Fermenta
Biotech Limited
Erstwhile Fermenta
Biotech Limited
% of shares held 34.01% 11.73% 8.70% Nil
Whether relative of director Relative of Ms. Rajeshwari
Datla and Ms. Anupama
Datla Desai
No Relative of Ms. Rajeshwari
Datla and Mr. Krishna
Datla
No
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors
Pradeep M. Chandan
Chairman
May 27, 2024, Thane (DIN: 0200067)
Registered Ofce:
A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex,
Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade,
Thane (West) – 400 610
Maharashtra, India.

56 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Annexure III CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT

COMPANY’S PHILOSOPHY ON CODE OF GOVERNANCE

Your Company firmly believes that corporate governance is a key element in improving efficiency and growth as well as enhancing investors’ confidence. The Company constantly strives towards betterment of aspects such as transparency, professionalism and accountability and thereby perpetuate it into generating long term economic value for its shareholders, customers, employees, other associated persons and the society at large.

Our corporate governance philosophies are continuously reinforced through the Company’s Code of Conduct and Ethics, corporate governance guidelines, established practices, and committee charters. Our Board and Management processes, audits and internal control systems reflect the principles of our corporate governance framework. The Company is committed to good corporate governance in line with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (“Listing Regulations”). The Board of Directors of your Company reviews corporate governance norms from time to time and recommends implementation thereof.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Board of Directors of the Company has an optimum combination of executive and non-executive Directors including three women directors, out of which one is an independent woman director as stipulated under Regulation 17 of the Listing Regulations. The Chairman of the Board is an Independent Director. The Board of Directors confirm that the Independent Directors fulfill the conditions specified in terms of Schedule V of Regulation 34(3) of the Listing Regulations and are independent of the management. The composition of the Board as on March 31, 2024 is as follows:

Name of Director Category Directorships
in all other
companies
Chairmanship in
other Committees
[Audit Committee
and Stakeholder
Relationship
Committee only] in
all other companies
Membership in
other Committees
[Audit Committee
and Stakeholder
Relationship
Committee only] in all
other companies
Name of other
listed entities
in which the
Director holds
directorship and
the category of
such directorship
Mr. Sanjay Buch
(DIN: 00391436)
Chairman (Independent
Director)
3 NIL NIL NIL
Ms. Rajeshwari Datla
(DIN: 00046864)
Non-Executive Director 2 NIL NIL NIL
Mr. Pradeep M.
Chandan (DIN:
00200067)*
Independent Director 1 NIL NIL NIL
Dr. Gopakumar Nair
(DIN: 00092637)
Independent Director 1 NIL NIL NIL
Mr. Vinayak Hajare
(DIN: 00004635)
Independent Director 6 NIL NIL NIL
Ms. Rajashri Ojha
(DIN: 07058128)
Independent Director 2 NIL NIL NIL
Mr. Pramod Kasat
(DIN: 00819790)
Independent Director 6 1 4 3#
Mr. Krishna Datla
(DIN: 00003247)
Whole-time Director
designated as Vice
executive Chairman
(w.e.f. May9,2021)
1 NIL NIL NIL
Mr. Satish Varma
(DIN: 00003255)
Executive Director
(re-appointed w.e.f.
September 27,2022)
NIL NIL NIL NIL
Ms. Anupama Datla
Desai
(DIN: 00217027)
Executive Director
(re-appointed w.e.f.
September 27,2022)
2 NIL NIL NIL
Mr. Prashant Nagre
(DIN: 09165447)
Managing Director
(w.e.f. May9,2021)
NIL NIL NIL NIL

Note: * Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan (DIN: 00200067) was appointed as an Independent Director w.e.f. February 12, 2024. # Independent Director in Sai Silks (Kalamandir) Limited, Natural Capsules Limited, Advanced Enzyme Technologies Limited.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 57

Disclosure of relationships between directors inter-se

Mr. Krishna Datla is one of the promoters of the Company. Ms. Rajeshwari Datla and Ms. Anupama Datla Desai are relatives of Mr. Krishna Datla as per the provisions of Section 2(77) of the Companies Act, 2013.

Following are the skills/ expertise/ core competencies of the Board members as identified for its effective functioning in terms of Schedule V of Regulation 34(3) of the Listing Regulations:

Skills/ expertise/ core competencies identified by the Board for Company’s effective functioning

  • Leadership / Operational experience

  • Corporate and business laws, Mergers and acquisitions

  • Mediation and arbitration

  • Pharmaceuticals

  • Investment Banking, Corporate Finance, Capital Markets and Global Market Solutions

  • Real Estate

  • Licensing and technology transfer

  • Research & Development and Innovation

  • Intellectual Property Rights

  • Regulatory compliance

  • Corporate Governance

Skills/ expertise/ core competencies available to the Board Members for effective functioning of the Company* :


Company* :
Names Core Competencies
Mr. Sanjay Buch Corporate and business laws, Mergers and
acquisitions, Corporate Governance
Ms. Rajeshwari Datla Leadership
/
Operational
experience,
Pharmaceuticals
Dr. Gopakumar Nair Pharmaceuticals, Mediation and arbitration,
Licensing
and
technology
transfer,
Intellectual PropertyRights
Mr. Vinayak Hajare Investment Banking, Corporate Finance
Ms. Rajashri Ojha Pharmaceuticals, Regulatorycompliance
Mr. Pramod Kasat Investment banking, Capital Markets and
Global Market Solutions
Mr. Pradeep M.
Chandan
Corporate and business laws, Corporate
Governance
Mr. Krishna Datla Leadership
/
Operational
experience,
Pharmaceuticals, Real Estate
Mr. Satish Varma Leadership
/
Operational
experience,
Pharmaceuticals, Real Estate
Ms. Anupama Datla
Desai
Leadership
/
Operational
experience,
Pharmaceuticals
Mr. Prashant Nagre Leadership
/
Operational
experience,
Pharmaceuticals, Research & Development
and Innovation
  • As on March 31, 2024.

All the directors on the Board have the respective core competence as stated herein above.

Information regarding appointment / reappointment of Directors, as required under sub-regulation (3) of regulation 36 of the Listing Regulations and secretarial standard on general meetings specified by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India and approved by the Central Government is provided alongwith the notes to the AGM notice which forms part of this 72[nd] Annual Report and forms parts of this Corporate Governance Report.

BOARD MEETINGS / PREVIOUS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

  • During the financial year under review, six Board Meetings were held on May 22, 2023, May 29, 2023, August 11, 2023, November 08, 2023, February 12, 2024 and March 23, 2024. The maximum gap between any two board meetings was less than 120 days, as stipulated under sub-regulation (2) of regulation 17 of the Listing Regulations.

Attendance at the aforesaid six Board meetings and previous Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on September 29, 2023 is as follows:

Sr.
No.
Name Board
Meetings
attended
Attendance
at previous
AGM
1 Mr. SanjayBuch 6 Yes
2 Ms. Rajeshwari Datla 6 Yes
3 Mr. Vinayak Hajare 6 Yes
4 Mr. Krishna Datla 6 Yes
5 Mr. Satish Varma 4 Yes
6 Dr. Gopakumar Nair 6 Yes
7 Mr. Pramod Kasat 6 Yes
8 Ms. Anupama Datla Desai 6 Yes
9 Ms. Rajashri Ojha 6 Yes
10 Mr. Prashant Nagre 6 Yes
11 Mr. PradeepM. Chandan* 2 N.A.

*Joined the Board on February 12, 2024.

AUDIT COMMITTEE

During the year under review, four meetings were held on May 29, 2023, August 11, 2023, November 08, 2023 and February 12, 2024. The representatives of the Auditor(s), and Chief Financial Officer also attended the Audit Committee meeting(s).

The composition of the Audit Committee as on March 31, 2024 and the attendance of the Audit Committee members at the Committee meetings held during the financial year under review is as follows:

Name of the Director Designation Meetings
attended
Mr. SanjayBuch Chairman 4
Ms. Rajeshwari Datla Member 4
Mr. Vinayak Hajare Member 4
Dr. Gopakumar Nair Member 4

58 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

The composition of the Audit Committee complies with the requirements laid down in Regulation 18 of the Listing Regulations. Mr. Sanjay Buch and Mr. Vinayak Hajare possessed expertise in accounting and financial management. The Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the Audit Committee.

Note: The Audit Committee was re-constituted on May 17, 2024 and the members as on the date of this report are Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan (Chairman), Ms. Rajeshwari Datla, Ms. Rajashri Ojha and Mr. Pramod Kasat.

• Terms of reference:

The powers, role and functions of the Audit Committee are as per the provisions of Section 177 of the Companies Act, 2013 and sub-regulation (3) of regulation 18 read with Schedule II (Part C) of the Listing Regulations, which, inter alia include the following:

  1. Review Company’s financial reporting process and accounting policies and practices.

  2. Review and recommend to the Board, appointment, re-appointment and removal of Statutory and Internal Auditors and fixation of auditors remuneration and other fees, including terms of appointment.

  3. Review with management of quarterly, half-yearly and annual financial statements and auditors’ report before submission to Board for approval with particular reference to:

  4. (a) Director’s Responsibility Statement as per clause (c) of sub-section (3) of section 134 of the Companies Act, 2013;

  5. (b) changes, if any, in accounting policies and practices and reasons for the same;

  6. (c) major accounting entries involving estimates based on the exercise of judgment by management;

  7. (d) significant adjustments made in the financial statements arising out of audit findings;

  8. (e) compliance with listing and other legal requirements relating to financial statements;

  9. (f ) disclosure of any related party transactions;

  10. (g) modified opinion(s) in the draft audit report;

  11. Review: (a) adequacy of internal control systems (including internal financial controls) and risk management systems; (b) the adequacy of internal audit function, if any, including the structure of the internal audit department, staffing and seniority of the official heading the department, reporting structure coverage and frequency of internal audit; (c) reports and significant findings, if any, of the Internal and Statutory Auditor and to ensure that suitable follow-up action is taken; (d) findings of any internal investigations by the internal auditors into matters where there is suspected fraud or irregularity or a failure of internal control systems of a material nature and reporting the matter to the

board; (e) and monitor the auditor’s independence and performance, and effectiveness of audit process; (f) with the management, performance of statutory and internal auditors, adequacy of the internal control systems; (g) financial statements of subsidiary companies, joint venture and associate companies; (h) substantial defaults in payments to stakeholders and creditors; (i) functioning of the Vigil mechanism;

  1. Discussion with Statutory Auditors and Internal Auditors about nature and scope of audit and areas of concern; and discussion with statutory auditors before the audit commences, about the nature and scope of audit as well as post-audit discussion to ascertain any areas of concern;

  2. Examination of disclosure aspects of related party transactions and approval or any subsequent modification of transactions of the Company with related parties;

  3. Other functions like Scrutiny of inter-corporate loans and investments; valuation of undertakings or assets wherever necessary;

  4. Monitoring the end use of funds raised through public offers and related matters;

  5. Approval of appointment of Chief Financial Officer;

  6. Any other functions as may be statutorily required.

NOMINATION AND REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

  • During the year under review, two Committee meetings were held on August 11, 2023 and February 12, 2024.

  • The Composition of the said Committee as on March 31, 2024 and the attendance of the Committee members in its meeting held during the financial year under review is as follows:

Name of the Director Designation Meetings
attended
Mr. Vinayak Hajare Chairman 2
Mr. SanjayBuch Member 2
Dr. Gopakumar Nair Member 2

The composition of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee complies with the requirements laid down in Regulation 19 of the Listing Regulations. The Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the Committee.

Note: The Nomination and Remuneration Committee was reconstituted on May 17, 2024 and the members as on the date of this report are Mr. Pramod Kasat (Chairman), Ms. Rajeshwari Datla and Ms. Rajashri Ojha.

  • Terms of reference:

The terms of reference include:

  1. Identify persons who are qualified to become directors and who may be appointed in senior management in accordance with the criteria laid down and recommend to the Board, their appointment and removal.

  2. Carry out evaluation of every director’s performance.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 59

  1. Devising a policy on diversity of Board of Directors.

  2. Formulate the criteria for determining qualifications, positive attributes and independence of a director.

  3. Recommend to the Board a policy, relating to the remuneration for the Directors, Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) and other employees, where applicable.

  4. Recommend whether to extend or continue the term of appointment of the independent director, on the basis of the report of performance evaluation of independent directors.

  5. Any other terms of reference, role, responsibility and powers as may be prescribed from time to time (i) under the Companies Act, 2013 and rules made thereunder and the Listing Regulations; and/or (ii) by the Board of Directors of the Company.

  6. Nomination and Remuneration policy and performance evaluation of Board and individual Directors:

As per the Nomination and Remuneration policy of the Company (‘Remuneration Policy’), the Director(s), KMP, Senior management personnel in addition to the criteria mentioned in the Act and Listing Regulations, should inter alia possess (a) relevant qualification, experience and expertise; (b) strong analytical and excellent communication skills; (c) collaborative

and flexible style, with a high level of professionalism; and (d) leadership skills.

Performance evaluation criteria for independent directors is as mentioned in Remuneration Policy which is available to Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies. php

ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE BOARD, ITS COMMITTEES AND INDIVIDUAL DIRECTORS

Pursuant to provisions of the Act, Listing Regulations and Remuneration Policy, the Directors of the Company carried out annual performance evaluation of the Board as a whole, Committees of the Board and Individual Directors (excluding the Director being evaluated).

A meeting of Independent Directors of the Company was held to: (a) review the performance of Chairperson, Non Independent Directors and the Board as a whole; (b) assess the quality, quantity and timeliness of flow of information between the Company management and the Board.

The evaluation was done through a structured process and forms, covering various aspects such as composition of Board, professional knowledge and expertise, performance of individual roles and duties including contribution in Board / Committee meetings, protection of interest of all stakeholders etc.

DETAILS OF REMUNERATION OF DIRECTORS FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2024 ARE AS FOLLOWS:

AS FOLLOWS:
Name of Director Sitting Fees
(*H)**
Salary (H) Contribution to PF
and other funds(H)
Benefts &
Perquisites(H)
Total (H) No. of shares
held(FV ofH5)
Nature Fixed (per
meeting)
Fixed Fixed Variable - -
Mr. Sanjay Buch
Independent Director
8,60,000 - - - 8,60,000 NIL
Ms. Rajeshwari Datla
Non-Executive Director
8,00,000 - - - 8,00,000 5,95,818
Mr. Vinayak Hajare
Independent Director
8,60,000 - - - 8,60,000 NIL
Mr. Krishna Datla **
Executive Vice-Chairman +
- 1,77,78,600 21,60,125 11,67,670 2,11,06,395 1,0010,225
Mr. Satish Varma***
Executive Director +
- 1,20,55,500 16,60,936 16,76,115 1,53,92,551 3,453,325
Dr. Gopakumar Nair
Independent Director
8,30,000 - - - 8,30,000 6,000
Ms. Anupama Datla Desai***
Executive Director +
- 88,38,000 12,70,664 8,29,468 1,09,38,132 2,561,265
Mr. Rajashri Ojha
Independent Director
6,00,000 - - - 6,00,000 NIL
Mr. Prashant Nagre****
ManagingDirector +
- 1,43,57,807 9,34,147 8,19,201 1,61,11,155 NIL
Mr. Pramod Kasat
Independent Director
6,00,000 - - - 6,00,000 NIL
Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan@
Independent Director
1,00,000 - - - 1,00,000 NIL
TOTAL 46,50,000 5,30,29,907 60,25,872 44,92,454 6,81,98,233 1,66,26,633

60 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Note: The above remuneration does not include Commission payable to Managing Director, Executive Directors & Executive Vice Chairman for the FY 2023-24, if any.

  • Sitting Fees include fees for –

  • Board, Audit Committee and other Committee Meetings @ H1,00,000, H50,000 and H10,000 per meeting respectively (sitting fee for Risk Management Committee is waived).

  • ** The agreement between the Company and the Executive Vice-Chairman is for a period of three years effective May 9, 2021 with a loss of office provision. Either party is entitled to terminate the said agreement by giving not less than three months’ notice in writing to the other party or such other period as may be mutually decided.

  • *** The agreement between the Company and the Executive Directors is for a period of three years effective September 27, 2022 with a loss of office provision. Either party is entitled to terminate the said agreement by giving not less than three months’ notice in writing to the other party or such other period as may be mutually decided.

  • **** The agreement between the Company and the Managing Director is for a period of three years effective May 9, 2021 with a loss of office provision. Either party is entitled to terminate the said agreement by giving not less than three months’ notice in writing to the other party or such other period as may be mutually decided.

    • The remuneration details include the benefits and perquisites paid to the Managing Director, Executive Directors and Executive ViceChairman for FY 2023-24.
  • @ Joined the Board on February 12, 2024.

The Company has not granted any Stock Option to any Director. 2,17,410 Stock Options were granted to Mr. Prashant Nagre in financial year 2019-20 when he was Chief Executive Officer of the Company. ESOP related disclosure is available at Company’s website under https://fermentabiotech.com/investor_relations.php

There has been no materially relevant pecuniary transaction or relationship between the Company and its Non-Executive / Independent Directors during the year under review, except as stated above.

The Non-Executive Directors receive sitting fees for attending the meetings of Board of Directors and its Committees. Criteria of making payments to non-executive directors is as mentioned in Remuneration Policy which is available to Company’s website at https:// fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

STAKEHOLDERS RELATIONSHIP COMMITTEE

  • During the year under review, four Stakeholders Relationship Committee meetings were held on May 29, 2023, August 11, 2023, November 08, 2023 and February 12, 2024. The composition of the Committee as on March 31, 2024 and the attendance at the said Committee meeting is as follows:
Name of the Director Designation Meetings
attended
Mr. SanjayBuch Chairman 4
Mr. Vinayak Hajare Member 4
Mr. Krishna Datla Member 4
Mr. Satish Varma Member 3

The composition of the Stakeholders Relationship Committee complies with the requirements laid down in Regulation 20 of the Listing Regulations. The Company Secretary acts as a Secretary to Stakeholders Relationship Committee.

Note: The Stakeholders Relationship Committee was reconstituted on May 17, 2024 and the members as on the date of this report are Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan (Chairman), Mr. Pramod Kasat, Mr. Krishna Datla and Mr. Satish Varma.

  1. Redressal of members’ grievances.

  2. Issue of duplicate Share Certificates.

  3. Review of Dematerialized shares.

  4. Transfer and Transmission of shares.

  5. Non-receipt of Annual Reports and declared dividends.

  6. Other matters related to shares and/or investor grievances.

  7. Any other matter as may be statutorily required including under Schedule II Part D of Listing Regulations.

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

  • Name and designation of Compliance Officer: Mr. Srikant N. Sharma - Company Secretary and Vice-President (Legal)

Investor Helpdesk:

Mr. Srikant Sharma

Fermenta Biotech Limited, A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) – 400 610, Maharashtra, India

Tel No.022-67980800 Fax:-022-67980899

  • Terms of Reference:

e-mail: [email protected]

The Committee, inter alia, deals in matters relating to:

Annual Report 2023-24 | 61

Investor Complaints and their redressal

  • Number of shareholders’ complaints received during the financial year: 3

  • Number of complaints not solved to the satisfaction of shareholders: NIL

  • Number of pending complaints as on March 31, 2024 were NIL

RISK MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:

During the year under review, two Risk Management Committee meetings were held on August 09, 2023 and January 31, 2024 and the attendance at the said Committee meeting is as follows:

Name of the Director Designation Meetings
attended
Mr. Vinayak Hajare Chairman 2
Dr. Gopakumar Nair Member 2
Mr. Satish Varma Member 2
Mr. Prashant Nagre Member 2

The composition of the Risk Management Committee complies with the requirements laid down in Regulation 21 of the Listing Regulations. The Company Secretary acts as a Secretary to Risk Management Committee.

Note: The Risk Management Committee was re-constituted on May 17, 2024 and the members as on the date of this report are Ms. Rajashri Ojha (Chairperson), Mr. Satish Varma, and Mr. Prashant Nagre.

  • Terms of Reference:

  • RMC shall have powers to seek information from any employee, obtain outside legal or other professional advice and secure attendance of outsiders with relevant expertise, if it considers necessary.

  • RMC shall formulate a detailed Risk Management Policy which shall include:

    • (a) A framework for identification of internal and external risks specifically faced by the listed entity, in particular including financial, operational, sectoral, sustainability (particularly, ESG related risks), information, cyber security risks or any other risk as may be determined by the Committee.

    • (b) Measures for risk mitigation including systems and processes for internal control of identified risks.

    • (c) Business continuity plan.

  • RMC shall ensure that appropriate methodology, processes and systems are in place to monitor and evaluate risks associated with the business of the Company.

  • RMC shall monitor and oversee implementation of the Policy, including evaluating the adequacy of risk management systems.

  • RMC shall periodically review the Policy, at least once in two years, including by considering the changing industry dynamics and evolving complexity.

  • RMC shall keep the Board of Directors informed about the nature and content of its discussions, recommendations and actions to be taken.

The Committee, inter alia, deals in matters relating to:

  1. RMC shall meet at least twice in a year.

  2. The quorum for a meeting of the RMC shall be either two members or one third of the members of the committee, whichever is higher, including at least one member of the Board of directors in attendance.

  3. The meetings of RMC shall be conducted in such a manner that on a continuous basis not more than one hundred and eighty days shall elapse between any two consecutive meetings.

  4. The appointment, removal and terms of remuneration of the Chief Risk Officer (if any) shall be subject to review by RMC.

  5. RMC shall coordinate its activities with other committees, in instances where there is any overlap with activities of such committees, as per the framework laid down by the Board of directors.

  6. RMC shall fulfil such responsibilities as may be entrusted to it by the Board from time to time.

No sitting fees is paid to the RMC members for attending RMC meetings.

GENERAL BODY MEETINGS

  • a) Details of the last three Annual General Meetings of the Company and Special Resolution(s) passed are as follows:
Year Date and Time Venue Special Resolution(s)passed
FY 2020-21 September 03, 2021
at 11:30 a.m.
VC/OAVM* 1)
To appoint Mr. Krishna Datla as a Whole-time Director of the Company,
designated as Executive Vice-Chairman, for a period of 3 years w.e.f. May 9,
2021;
2)
To appoint Mr. Prashant Nagre as Managing Director of the Company for a
period of 3 years w.e.f. May 9, 2021;
3)
Commission to Non-Executive Directors.

62 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Year Date and Time Venue Special Resolution(s)passed
FY 2021-22 August 12, 2022
at 4.00 p.m.
VC/OAVM* 1)
To appoint Mr. Pramod Kasat as an Independent Director w.e.f August 12, 2022.
2)
To re-appoint Mr. Satish Varma as an Executive Director of the Company for a
period of 3 years w.e.f. September 27, 2022
3)
To re-appoint Ms. Anupama Datla Desai as an Executive Director of the
Companyfor aperiod of 3years w.e.f. September 27, 2022
FY 2022-23 September 29, 2023
at 3.00p.m.
VC/OAVM* Nil

*Meeting held through Video conferencing/Other Audio Visual Means

b) Whether any special resolution passed last year (FY 2023-24) through postal ballot –details of voting pattern: Yes:

Sr.
No.
Description of Securities Votes in favour of the resolution Votes in favour of the resolution Votes against the resolution Votes against the resolution
Number of
valid votes cast
(Shares)
Percentage of total
number of valid
votes cast
Number of
valid votes cast
(Shares)
Percentage of total
number of valid
votes cast
1 Appointment of Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan
(DIN: 00200067) as an Independent Director of
the Company.
21661419 97.9104 462296 2.0896
  • c) Person who conducted the postal ballot exercise – Mr. V. N. Deodhar, Practising Company Secretary (FCS –1880)

  • d) Whether any special resolution is proposed to be conducted through postal ballot – No.

  • e) Procedure for postal ballot – Procedure stipulated under Companies Act, 2013 and Listing Regulations shall be applicable for postal ballot activity undertaken by the Company.

COMPANY POLICIES

VIGIL MECHANISM POLICY

The Company has adopted a Whistle Blower Policy as part of Vigil Mechanism for Directors and employees to report instances of unethical acts, actual or suspected fraud or violation of the Company’s Code or other similar genuine concerns or grievances. The Vigil Mechanism Policy is displayed on the Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php. The Board affirms that no personnel has been denied access to the chairperson / members of audit committee.

POLICY ON DEALING WITH RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (‘RPT Policy’)

The RPT Policy of the Company lays down the process to be adopted by the Company for: (a) identification of potential Related Party/ies; (b) materiality thresholds for RPT(s); (c) manner of dealing with and approving the transactions between the Company and its related parties. The RPT Policy also lays down the disclosure requirements of related party transactions, if any and the criteria for determining ordinary course of business and arm’s length transactions.

The RPT Policy, as amended can be viewed at the Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

During the year under review, there were no materially significant related party transactions entered by the Company with Promoters, Directors or Key Managerial Personnel or their relatives which may have a potential conflict with the interest of the Company at large.

Except as otherwise provided in this Annual report, none of the Directors has any pecuniary relationships or transactions with the Company.

POLICY FOR DETERMINING MATERIAL SUBSIDIARY

The Company has adopted a policy for determining material subsidiary as required by the Listing Regulations. The objective of this policy is to lay down criteria for identification and dealing with material subsidiaries and to formulate a governance framework for subsidiaries of the Company. The policy is uploaded on the website of the Company and can be viewed at https://fermentabiotech. com/policies.php

FAMILIARISATION PROGRAMME FOR INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

The Company has adopted ’Familiarization Programme’ for Independent Directors to ensure that the Independent Directors are familiarized with the Company’s business operations, strategies, business model, nature of industry in which Company operates and role, duties and responsibilities of an Independent Director of the Company. The details of Familiarisation Programme are available at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

Disclosure in relation to Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 is provided in Boards report.

The Company has adopted various policies which are available at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

Annual Report 2023-24 | 63

DISCLOSURES

  • During the year under review, the risk management reports were placed before the Audit Committee and Board of Directors for review.

  • Pursuant to sub regulation 8 of Regulation 17 read with Part B of Schedule II of the Listing Regulations, the Managing Director and the Chief Financial Officer have submitted a certificate to the Board of Directors for the financial year ended March 31, 2024. The Certificate has been reviewed by the Audit Committee and taken on record by the Board of Directors.

• Reconciliation of Share Capital Audit

Share Capital Audit for the total admitted capital with National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) and Central Depository Services (India) Limited (CDSL) and the total issued and listed capital of the Company has been done by a Practising Company Secretary on a quarterly basis and the Reconciliation of Share Capital Audit Reports were issued thereon during the

year under review. The audit confirms that the total issued / paid–up capital agrees with the total number of shares in physical form and the total number of dematerialised shares held with NSDL and CDSL.

• Compliance with Mandatory Requirements

The Company has complied with all the mandatory requirements, as applicable in terms of Schedule V of the Listing Regulations.

  • Compliance with Discretionary Requirements as per Part E of Schedule II of the Listing Regulations:

The Company has adopted Discretionary requirements as provided in Part E (E) of Schedule II of the Listing Regulations i.e. the internal auditor reports directly to the audit committee. A, B, C and D of the Discretionary requirements as provided in Part E of Schedule II of the Listing Regulations have not been adopted.

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION

  • The Quarterly, Half Yearly and Annual results, published in the proforma prescribed under the Listing Regulations, are approved by the Audit Committee and taken on record by the Board of Directors of the Company within the prescribed time limit. The approved results are forthwith sent to BSE Limited in prescribed format where the Company’s shares are listed.

Newspapers whereinquarterlyresults arepublished:
Business Standard (English) and Sakal (Marathi)

Any website, where displayed:
Yes, BSE website (www.bseindia.com) and the Company’s website (www.
fermentabiotech.com)

Online fling with BSE Corporate Compliance & Listing
Centre:
All periodical compliances of the Company as per Listing Regulations are
also beingfled online with the BSE ListingCentre.

SEBI Complaints Redress System (SCORES) :
The investor complaints, if any, can be uploaded on the SCORES. These
complaints are processed in a centralized web-based complaints redress
system of SEBI (SCORES). The salient features of this system is centralised
database of all complaints, online upload of Action Taken Reports (ATRs)
and online viewing by investors of actions taken on the complaint and its
current status.

Whether it also displays ofcial news releases and
presentations made to institutional investors or to
analysts:
Yes

Management discussion and analysis report (MD&A)
is apart of the Annual report or not:
MD&A Report forms part of the Annual Report.

GENERAL SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

GENERAL SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
Annual General Meeting :
August 12, 2024 through Video Conferencing or Other Audio-Visual Means,
without the physical presence of the members at a common venue. The
venue of the AGM shall be deemed to be A-1501, Thane One, DIL Complex,
Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) - 400 610, Maharashtra.

Financial Year
:
April 1 to March 31
Financial reporting for the quarter ending June
30, 2024
:
By August 14, 2024
Financial reporting for the quarter ending
September 30, 2024
:
By November 14, 2024
Financial reporting for the quarter ending
December 31, 2024
:
By February 14, 2025

64 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Financial reporting for the year ending March
31, 2025 (Audited)
:
By May 30, 2025

Dividend Payment Date
:
ByAugust 22, 2024

Listing on Stock Exchanges
:
BSE Limited
Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers,
Dalal Street, Mumbai - 400 001
Tel: +91 22 22721233/34
Fax: +91 22 22721919
(Listingfees for theyear 2024-25 have beenpaid.)

Stock/ ScripCode on BSE Limited
:
506414
  • Market Price Data: High / low of the Company’s Stock Price during each month in the financial year ended March 31, 2024
Month Fermenta Biotech Limited Fermenta Biotech Limited
High (H) Low (H)
April 2023 153.85 104
May2023 155 135
June 2023 145 132.30
July2023 145.90 133
August 2023 173 140.20
September 2023 175 152.60
October 2023 209.50 155
November 2023 187 144.45
December 2023 167 148.50
January2024 186.40 150
February2024 214 154.45
March 2024 189.55 146
  • Performance in comparison to broad-based indices such as BSE Sensex.
Performance in comparison to broad-based indices such as BSE Sensex.
Month Company’s Closing
Price (H)
No. of shares of the
Company traded
April 2023 144.25 1,56,880
May2023 141.85 1,15,838
June 2023 136.50 2,37,689
July2023 141.85 2,23,592
August 2023 158.00 4,23,013
September 2023 157.95 3,75,742
October 2023 182.50 4,36,365
November 2023 155.55 2,97,344
December 2023 161.60 2,49,103
January2024 157.40 2,87,536
February2024 180.20 15,29,557
March 2024 151.40 4,72,799

Annual Report 2023-24 | 65

FBL SHARE PRICE/BSE SENSEX

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80,000 1200
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65,000 1000
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55,000 800
50,000
45,000
40,000 600
35,000
30,000
25,000 400
20,000
15,000 200
10,000
5,000
0 0
Axis Title
BSE Sensex Company’s Closing Price (H)
Apr-23 May-23 June-23 Jul-23 Aug-23 Sep-23 Oct-23 Nov-23 Dec-23 Jan-24 Feb-24 Mar-24
BSE SENSEX
FBL SHARE PRICE
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Registrar and Transfer Agents : Link Intime India Private Limited C 101, 247 Park, L B S Marg, Vikhroli West, Mumbai 400 083 Maharashtra, India Tel No.: +91 22 49186000 Fax No: +91 22 49186060 Email : [email protected]

  • Share Transfer System:

To enhance ease of dealing in securities markets by investors, SEBI vide circular number SEBI/HO/MIRSD/MIRSD_RTAMB/P/CIR/2022/8 dated January 25, 2022 has decided that listed companies shall henceforth issue the securities in dematerialized form only (vide Gazette Notification no. SEBI/LADNRO/GN/2022/66 dated January 24, 2022) while processing the service request for Issue of duplicate securities certificate, Claim from Unclaimed Suspense Account, Renewal / Exchange of securities certificate, Endorsement, Sub-division / Splitting of securities certificate, Consolidation of securities certificates/folios, Transmission, Transposition and other shareholders’ requests (“Shareholders’ requests”). The Shareholders’ requests are processed by the Registrar and Share Transfer Agents, and approved by the Stakeholders Relationship Committee. Shareholders’ requests are processed within a stipulated time from the date of receipt, provided the documentation is in order. In order to expedite the Shareholders’ requests, the Board of Directors has delegated the powers to Mr. Sanjay Buch, Chairman of the Stakeholders Relationship Committee and/ or Mr. Vinayak Hajare, Member of the Stakeholders Relationship Committee and/or Mr. Srikant Sharma, Company Secretary, who attends and resolves Shareholders’ requests within the stipulated time. The meeting of Stakeholders Relationship Committee is also held every quarter. (Refer Note under the heading Stakeholders Relationship Committee mentioned in this Corporate Governance Report)

  • Distribution of the Company’s equity shareholding as on March 31, 2024:
Sr.
No.
Range in no. of Shares Holding
(no. of shares)
Amount (H) % to Total
Amount
No. of Holders % to Total
Holders
1 1 - 500 13,48,112 67,40,560 4.5806 12958 83.1814
2 501 - 1000 10,94,298 54,71,490 3.7182 1468 9.4235
3 1001 - 2000 9,52,616 47,63,080 3.2368 654 4.1982
4 2001 - 3000 4,49,914 22,49,570 1.5287 178 1.1426
5 3001 - 4000 3,09,758 15,48,790 1.0525 88 0.5649
6 4001 - 5000 2,20,574 11,02,870 0.7495 47 0.3017
7 5001 - 10000 6,40,549 32,02,745 2.1764 86 0.5521
8 10001 and above 2,44,15,166 12,20,75,830 82.9573 99 0.6355
Total 2,94,30,987 14,71,54,935 100 15,578 100

66 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

  • Equity Shareholding Pattern as on March 31, 2024
Equity Shareholding Pattern as on March 31, 2024
Shareholding (no. of
shares)
% of holding
ClearingMembers 1000 0.0034
Other Bodies Corporate 474271 1.6115
Foreign Promoters 2240376 7.6123
Hindu Undivided Family 212689 0.7227
Nationalised Banks 120 0.0004
Non Resident Indians 72801 0.2474
Non Resident (Non Repatriable) 117935 0.4007
Public 9556436 32.4707
Promoters 16024815 54.4488
Employee Welfare Trust / ESOP Trust 556880 1.8922
BodyCorporate - Limited LiabilityPartnership 15625 0.0531
Investor Education And Protection Fund 158039 0.5370
TOTAL 2,94,30,987 100
  • Dematerialisation of Shares and liquidity : The Company and Link Intime India Private Limited, has signed Tripartite Agreements with the National Securities Depository Ltd. and the Central Depository Services (India) Ltd. respectively. The shares of the Company are compulsorily traded in the dematerialised form in the Stock Exchange. Presently 99.07% of the equity shares of the Company have been dematerialized. The Company’s Equity Shares are liquid and actively traded on the stock exchange.

  • Outstanding global depository receipts or American depository receipts or warrants or any convertible instruments, conversion date and likely impact on equity – Not applicable

  • Commodity price risk or foreign exchange risk and hedging activities : The Company does not have any significant

exposure on commodities directly. Currency risks arises mainly where receivable, payables and borrowings exist due to foreign currency transactions. Around 56% of the Company’s income is by way of exports and it enjoys natural hedge to a large extent. The exposure to currency risk is explained in detail in the notes to the financial statements.

Plant locations: Factory

Village Takoli, P.O. Nagwain, Dist. Mandi - 175 121, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Z - 109 B & C, SEZ II, Dahej, Taluka - Vagara, Dist: Bharuch - 392130, Gujarat, India.

FRK Plant, Sy. No. 3/A, Pennepalli (V), Pellakuru Mandal, Tirupati Dist., 524126, Andhra Pradesh.

  • Address for Correspondence :
Link Intime India Private Limited Fermenta Biotech Limited
C 101, 247 Park A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex,
L B S Marg, Vikhroli West, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade,
Mumbai – 400 083. Thane (West) – 400 610
Maharashtra, India Maharashtra, India.
Tel No.: +91 22 49186000 ISIN: INE225B01021
Fax No.: +91 22 49186060 Tel No.: + 91 22 66230800
Email : [email protected] Fax No.: + 91 22 6798 0899
Email: [email protected]

Annual Report 2023-24 | 67

  • List of all credit ratings obtained by the entity along with any revisions thereto during the relevant financial year, for all debt instruments of such entity or any fixed deposit programme or any scheme or proposal of the listed entity involving mobilization of funds, whether in India or abroad. – Not applicable

  • Details of non-compliance by the Company and penalties or strictures were imposed on the Company by the Stock Exchange(s) or SEBI or any statutory authority, on any matter related to the capital markets during the last three years:-

Years Details
2021-22 Nil
2022-23 Nil
2023-24 Nil
  • Details of utilization of funds raised through preferential allotment or qualified institutions placement as specified under Regulation 32 (7A). – Not applicable

  • Total fees for all services paid by the listed entity and its subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, to the statutory auditor

and all entities in the network firm/network entity of which the statutory auditor is a part: H91.45 Lakhs.

  • A certificate regarding debarring or disqualification of directors is annexed to Board’s report as Annexure – VI.

  • Where the Board had not accepted any recommendation of any committee of the Board which is mandatorily required, in the relevant financial year, the same to be disclosed along with reasons thereof - Nil

  • During the year under review, there were no instances of Non-compliance of any requirement of corporate governance report of sub-paras (2) to (10) of Part C of Schedule V to the Listing Regulations.

  • During the year under review, the Company is in compliance of Regulation 17 to 27 and clauses (b) to (i) of sub-regulation (2) of Regulation 46 of the Listing Regulations.

  • Compliance certificate regarding the compliance with corporate governance requirements is annexed to Board’s report as Annexure IV.

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors

May 27, 2024, Thane

Pradeep M. Chandan Chairman (DIN: 0200067)

Registered Office:

A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) – 400 610 Maharashtra, India.

68 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Annexure IV

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE

for the Financial Year ended 31[st] March 2024

To

The Members of

Fermenta Biotech Limited

We have examined the compliance of conditions of Corporate Governance by Fermenta Biotech Limited (the Company) for the year ended March 31, 2024, as stipulated in Regulations 17 to 27, clauses (b) to (i) and (t) of sub-regulation (2) of Regulation 46 and paragraph C, D and E of Schedule V of Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (“SEBI Listing Regulations”).

Managements’ Responsibility:

The compliance of conditions of Corporate Governance is the responsibility of the Company’s management. This responsibility includes the design, implementation and maintenance of internal control and procedures to ensure the compliance with the conditions of the Corporate Governance stipulated in the SEBI Listing Regulations.

Auditors’ Responsibility:

the compliance of the conditions of the Corporate Governance. It is neither an audit nor an expression of opinion on the financial statements of the Company.

Opinion:

Based on our examination of the relevant records and according to the information and explanations provided to us and the representations provided by the Management, we certify that the Company has complied with the conditions of Corporate Governance as stipulated in Regulations 17 to 27 and clauses (b) to (i) and (t) of sub-Regulation (2) of Regulation 46 and paragraph C, D and E of Schedule V of SEBI Listing Regulations during the year ended March 31, 2024.

We state that such compliance is neither an assurance as to the future viability of the Company nor of the efficacy or effectiveness with which the Management has conducted the affairs of the Company.

Our responsibility is limited to examining the procedures and implementation thereof, adopted by the Company for ensuring

For V. N. DEODHAR & CO., COMPANY SECRETARIES

V. N. DEODHAR

PROP.

Date: 27[th] May, 2024 Place: Mumbai

FCS NO.1880 C.P. No. 898 PR No.: 724/2020

Annual Report 2023-24 | 69

Annexure V

Form No. MR-3 SECRETARIAL AUDIT REPORT

FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2024

[Pursuant to section 204(1) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Rule No.9 of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014]

To, The Members, Fermenta Biotech Ltd., A-1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwada, Thane (W) - 400 610.

We have conducted the secretarial audit of the compliance of applicable statutory provisions and the adherence to good corporate practices by Fermenta Biotech Limited (hereinafter called ‘the Company’). Secretarial Audit was conducted in a manner that provided us a reasonable basis for evaluating the corporate conducts/statutory compliances and expressing our opinion thereon.

Based on our verification of the Company’s books, papers, minutes books, forms and returns filed and other records maintained by the Company and also the information provided by the Company, its officers, agents and authorized representatives during the conduct of secretarial audit, we hereby report that in our opinion, the Company has, during the audit period covering the financial year ended on March 31, 2024 complied with the statutory provisions listed hereunder and also that the Company has proper Boardprocesses and compliance mechanism in place to the extent, in the manner and subject to the reporting made hereinafter:

We have examined the books, papers, minute books, forms and returns filed and other records maintained by the Company for the financial year ended on March 31, 2024 according to the provisions of:

  • (i) The Companies Act, 2013 (the Act) and the rules made thereunder;

  • (ii) The Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956 (‘SCRA’) and the rules made there under;

  • (iii) The Depositories Act, 1996 and the Regulations and Bye-laws framed thereunder;

  • (iv) Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 and the rules and regulations made thereunder to the extent of Foreign Direct Investment, Overseas Direct Investment and External Commercial Borrowings;

  • (v) The following Regulations and Guidelines prescribed under the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992 (‘SEBI Act’):-

  • (a) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011;

  • (b) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015;

  • (c) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits) Regulations, 2014;

  • (d) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Registrars to an Issue and Share Transfer Agents) Regulations, 1993 regarding the Companies Act and dealing with client;

  • (e) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations,2015;

  • (f) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009 (Not applicable to the Company during the Audit period) ;

  • (g) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue and Listing of Debt Securities) Regulations, 2008 (Not applicable to the Company during the Audit period) ;

  • (h) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Delisting of Equity Shares) Regulations, 2009 (Not applicable to the Company during the Audit period) ;

  • (i) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Buyback of Securities) Regulations,1998 (Not applicable to the Company during the Audit period) ; and

We further report that, having regard to the compliance system prevailing in the Company and on examination of the relevant documents and records in pursuance thereof on test-check basis, the Company has complied with the following laws:

70 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

  • (a) Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940

  • (b) The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

  • (c) The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

  • (d) The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981

  • (e) Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989

  • (f) Fatal Accidents Act, 1955

  • (g) Factories Act, 1948

  • (h) Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016

  • (vi) During the period under review the Company has complied with the provisions of the Act, Rules, Regulations, Guidelines, Standards, etc. mentioned above. We have been informed that compliance of various statutes is monitored on monthly basis by the Compliance officer and necessary action is initiated for any non-compliance. Additionally, we have been informed that a status report signed by the Company Secretary and the Chief Financial Officer on compliance of various statues is submitted to the Board at its every meeting.

We have also examined compliance with the applicable clauses of the following:

  • (i) Secretarial Standards issued by The Institute of Company Secretaries of India,

  • (ii) Auditing Standards issued by The Institute of Company Secretaries of India and

  • (iii) SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 and the Listing Agreement entered into with the BSE Limited.

We further report that

The Board of Directors of the Company is duly constituted with proper balance of Executive Directors, Non-Executive Directors, Independent Directors and woman Director. The changes in the composition of the Board of Directors that took place during the period under review were carried out in compliance with the provisions of the Act.

Adequate notice is given to all directors to schedule the Board Meetings, agenda and detailed notes on agenda were sent at least seven days in advance, and a system exists for seeking and obtaining further information and clarifications on the agenda items before the meeting and for meaningful participation at the meeting.

All the decisions at Board Meetings and Committee Meetings are carried out unanimously as recorded in the Minutes of the Meetings of the Board of Directors or Committee of the Board as the case may be.

We further report that there are adequate systems and processes in the Company commensurate with the size and its operations to monitor and ensure compliance with applicable laws, rules, regulations and guidelines.

For V. N. DEODHAR & CO., COMPANY SECRETARIES

V. N. DEODHAR

PROP.

Place: Mumbai Date: 27[th] May, 2024

FCS NO.1880 C.P. No. 898 PR No : 724/2020

This Report is to be read with our letter of even date which is annexed as Annexure A and forms an integral part of this Report.

Annexure A

To, The Members Fermenta Biotech Ltd.,

Our Report of even date is to be read along with this letter.

  1. Maintenance of Secretarial Record is the responsibility of the management of the Company. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these Secretarial Records based on our Audit.

  2. Due to the inherent limitations of an audit including internal, financial and operating controls, there is an unavoidable risk that some misstatements or material non-compliances may not be detected, even though the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with the Standards.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 71

  1. We have followed the audit practices and process as were appropriate to obtain reasonable assurance about the correctness of the contents of the Secretarial records. The verification was done on test basis to ensure that correct facts are reflected in the Secretarial Records. We believe that the process and practices, we followed provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

  2. We have not verified the correctness and appropriateness of financial records and Books of Accounts of the Company. We have obtained reasonable assurance that the statements prepared, documents or Records maintained by the Company are free from misstatement.

  3. Wherever required, we have obtained the Management Representation about the Compliance of Laws, Rules & Regulations and happening of events, etc.

  4. The Compliance of provisions of Corporate and other applicable Laws, Rules, Regulations, Standards is the responsibility of management. Our examination was limited to the verification of procedure on test basis.

  5. The examination / audit of financial laws such as direct and indirect tax laws, labour laws has not been carried out by us as part of this Secretarial Audit.

  6. The Secretarial Audit Report is neither an assurance as to the future viability of the Company nor of the efficacy or effectiveness with which the management has conducted the affairs of the Company.

For V. N. DEODHAR & CO., COMPANY SECRETARIES

V. N. DEODHAR

PROP.

Place: Mumbai Date: 27[th] May, 2024

FCS NO.1880 C.P. No. 898 PR No : 724/2020

72 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Annexure - VI

CERTIFICATE OF NON-DISQUALIFICATION OF DIRECTORS

(Pursuant to Regulation 34(3) and Schedule V Para C Clause 10(i) of the SEBI (Listing Obligation and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations 2015)

To, The Members, Fermenta Biotech Ltd., A-1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwada, Thane (W) - 400 610.

We have examined the relevant register, records, forms, returns and disclosures received from the Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited having CIN L99999MH1951PLC008485 and having Registered Office at A-1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwada, Thane (W) - 400 610, (hereinafter referred to as ‘the Company’) produced before us by the Company for the purpose of issuing this Certificate, in accordance with Regulation 34(3) read with Schedule V Para C – sub clause 10(i) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulation 2015.

In our opinion and to the best of our information and according to the verifications (including Director Identification Number (DIN) status at the portal www.mca.gov.in) as considered necessary and explanation furnished to us by the Company and its officers, we hereby certify that none of the Directors on the Board of the Company as stated below for the Financial Year ended on March 31, 2024 have been debarred or disqualified from being appointed or continuing as Directors of Companies by the Securities and Exchange Board of India, Ministry of Corporate Affairs or any such other Statutory Authority.

Sr.
No
Name of Director DIN Date of Appointment in
Company
1 Mr. Satish Azad NadimpallyVarma 00003255 01/07/2003
2 Ms. Rajeshwari Datla 00046864 21/07/2005
3 Mr. SanjayBuch Ramakant 00391436 28/04/2007
4 Mr. Vinayak Manohar Hajare 00004635 18/06/2009
5 Mr. Krishna Datla Vasantkumar 00003247 09/05/2010
6 Mr. Gopakumar Gopalan Nair 00092637 17/05/2019
7 Ms. Anupama Datla Desai 00217027 27/09/2019
8 Mr. Pramod Kasat 00819790 30/05/2022
9 Mr. Prashant Prabhakar Nagre 09165447 06/05/2021
10 Mr. PradeepManjunath Chandan 00200067 12/02/2024
11 Ms. Rajashri Santosh Kumar Ojha 07058128 01/04/2020

Ensuring the eligibility for the appointment/ continuity of every Director on the Board is the responsibility of the management of the Company. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these based on our verification. This certificate is neither an assurance as to the future viability of the Company nor of the efficiency or effectiveness with which the management has conducted the affairs of the Company.

For V. N. DEODHAR & CO., COMPANY SECRETARIES

V. N. DEODHAR

Place: Mumbai Date: 27[th] May, 2024

PROP. FCS NO.1880 C.P. No. 898 PR No : 724/2020

Annual Report 2023-24 | 73

Annexure VII

Energy conservation, technology absorption and foreign exchange earnings and outgo

A. Conservation of energy –

(i) the steps taken or impact on conservation of energy:

  • a. Installed energy-efficient components.

  • b. Replaced high-pressure sodium vapour lamps with energy-saving lights i.e LEDs.

  • c. Installation of systems that have reduced resultant air pollution.

(ii) the steps taken by the Company for utilising alternate sources of energy:

  • a. Infrastructure installed for reducing electricity consumption.

  • b. Potential diversification of our energy portfolio by evaluating renewable energies.

(iii) the capital investment on energy conservation equipments:

Brine systems separated as per temperature to reduce electricity consumption.

B. Technology absorption –

  • (i) the efforts made towards technology absorption: NIL

(ii) the benefits derived like product improvement, cost reduction, product development or import substitution: Not Applicable

(iii) in case of imported technology (imported during the last three years reckoned from the beginning of the financial year) –

  • (a) the details of technology imported: NIL

  • (b) the year of import: Not Applicable

  • (c) whether the technology been fully absorbed: Not Applicable

  • (d) if not fully absorbed, areas where absorption has not taken place, and the reasons thereof: Not Applicable.

(iv) The expenditure incurred on Research and Development:

Capital: H5.92 Lakhs

Recurring: H1334.11 Lakhs

Total expenditure: H1340.03 Lakhs

C. Foreign exchange earnings and outgo –

Total Foreign exchange used and earned in 2023-24:

Foreign exchange earned: H12,070.20 Lakhs

Foreign exchange used: H6,081.09 Lakhs

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors

May 27, 2024, Thane Registered Office: A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) – 400 610 Maharashtra, India.

Pradeep M. Chandan Chairman (DIN: 0200067)

74 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Annexure VIII

Annual Report on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Activities

[Pursuant to clause (o) of sub-section (3) of section 134 of the Act and Rule 8 of the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014]

1. Brief outline on CSR Policy of the Company:

Continuing with the legacy of practicing CSR activities of our founder members, the Company has been committed to the cause of CSR for many years. Over the years, CSR activities of the Company have diversified and expanded into new communities and in turn benefitted more and more stakeholders. Today, our Company firmly believes that corporate citizens have a vital role to play in empowering and enriching the communities and its stakeholders.

The CSR Policy of the Company is available on Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

Brief of CSR activities: Contribution towards betterment of blind and differently abled persons, heart surgeries, promoting animal welfare, protecting art and culture, promoting education and contribution towards health care and covid preparedness.

2. Composition of the CSR Committee:

Sl.No. Name of Director Designation / Nature of Directorship Number of meetings
of CSR Committee held
during theyear
Number of meetings of
CSR Committee attended
during theyear
1 Mr. SanjayBuch Independent Director, Chairman 1 1
2 Mr. Vinayak Hajare Independent Director, Member 1 1
3 Mr. Satish Varma Executive Director, Member 1 1
4 Mr. Krishna Datla Executive Vice Chairman, Member 1 1
5 Dr. Gopakumar Nair Independent Director, Member 1 1

Note: The CSR Committee is re-constituted on May 17, 2024 and the members as on the date of this report are Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan (Chairman), Ms. Rajashri Ojha, Mr. Satish Varma and Mr. Krishna Datla

3. Provide the web-link where Composition of CSR committee, CSR Policy and CSR projects approved by the board are disclosed on the website of the Company:

CSR committee - https://fermentabiotech.com/about-us.php#board_members

CSR Policy - https://www.fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

CSR projects - https://www.fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

4. Provide the executive summary along with web-links of Impact assessment of CSR projects carried out in pursuance of sub-rule (3) of rule 8 of the Companies (Corporate Social responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014, if applicable (attach the report) – Not Applicable

5. a) Average net profit of the Company as per sub-section (5) of section 135: H4131.03 Lakhs lakhs (FY 2022-23, FY 2021-22, and FY 202021)

  • b) Two percent of average net profit of the Company as per section sub-section (5) of section 135: H82.62 Lakhs for FY 2023-24. (i.e., 2% of aforesaid H4131.03 lakhs)

  • (c) Surplus arising out of the CSR projects or programmes or activities of the previous financial years: NIL

  • (d) Amount required to be set off for the financial year, if any: H3.93 Lakhs (Excess amount of FY 2022-23)

  • e) Total CSR obligation for the financial year (b+c-d): H78.69 lakhs

Annual Report 2023-24 | 75

(11) Mode of Implementation -
Through Implementing Agency
CSR Registration
Number
- Details of CSR amount spent against other than ongoing projects for the fnancial year: (8) CSR
registration
number
CSR
registration
number
N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A.
Name N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A.
Name -
(7) Mode of
Implementation
- Direct (Yes/No)
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
(10) Mode of
Implementation
- Direct
(Yes/No)
-
(6) Amount spent
for the project
(inH)
15,00,000 16,62,420 18,82,185 10,42,592 4,07,173 50,000 5,000 25,547 2,83,200 25,000 1,13,680 4,94,733 74,91,530
(9) Amount transferred
to Unspent CSR
Account for the
project as per Section
135(6) (inH)
-
(5) Location of the project District Mumbai Pune Mumbai Mumbai Thane and
Raigad
Dahej and
Thane
Takoli Dahej Raigad Kullu Kullu Mandi
State Maharashtra Maharashtra Maharashtra Maharashtra Maharashtra Gujarat and
Maharashtra
Kullu Gujarat Maharashtra Himachal
Pradesh
Himachal
Pradesh
Himachal
Pradesh
(8) Amount
spent in
the current
fnancial
Year (inH)
-
(7) Amount
allocated for
the project
(inH)
-
(4) Local area (Yes/ No) Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
(6) Project
Duration
-
(3) Item from the list of activities in schedule VII to the Act Promoting health care including
preventive health care
Contribution for the beneft of
armed forces veterans
Contribution towards animal
protection/ welfare
Contribution towards animal
protection/ welfare
Social welfare Rural development and social
welfare
Rural Development Rural Development Promoting education Promoting Rural Sports Rural Development Rural Development
(5) Location
of the
Project -
(4) Local area
(Yes/No)
District -
**State ** -
(2) Name of the Project National Association of Blind Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre Sanjay Gandhi National Park Wildlife Rehabilitation center Support to Maharashtra Police Support for rural development
and social welfare activities
Development of Gram
panchayat Takoli
Installation of electricity efcient
equipments
RO plant installation in school Kullu school tournament Installation of street light - Takoli
Panchayat
Construction of road TOTAL (a)
(3) Item from
the list of
activities in
Schedule VII
to the Act
-
(2) Name
of the
Project -
(1) Sl. No. -
(1) Sl.
No.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

76 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

  • b) Amount spent in Administrative Overheads: H4.15 Lakhs

  • c) Amount spent on Impact Assessment, if applicable: NIL

  • d) Total amount spent for the Financial Year [(a)+(b)+(c)]: H79.07 Lakhs*

  • e) CSR amount spent or unspent for the financial year:

Total Amount Spent
for the Financial
Year. (inH)
Amount Unspent (inH) Amount Unspent (inH) Amount Unspent (inH) Amount Unspent (inH) Amount Unspent (inH)
Total Amount transferred to Unspent
CSR Account asper section 135(6)
Amount transferred to any fund specifed under
Schedule VII asper secondproviso to section 135(5)
Amount Date of transfer Name of the Fund Amount Date of transfer
H79.07 Lakhs* NIL N.A. N.A. NIL N.A.
  • *The carry forward amount from FY 2022-23 i.e. H3.93 lakhs when added to the total amount spent for the FY 2023-24 of H79.07 lakhs, will aggregate to H82.99 lakhs.

  • f) Excess amount for set off, if any

Sl.no. Particular Amount (inH)
(i) Twopercent of average netproft of the Companyasper section 135(5) 82.62 lakhs
(ii) Total amount spent for the Financial Year 82.99 lakhs**
(iii) Excess amount spent for the fnancialyear [(ii)-(i)] 0.37 lakhs
(iv) Surplus arising out of the CSR projects or programmes or activities of the previous fnancial
years, if any
NIL
(v) Amount available for set of in succeedingfnancialyears [(iii)-(iv)] 0.37 lakhs

** The amount spent for the FY 2023-24 of H82.99 lakhs includes a carry forward amount of H3.93 lakhs from the previous year.

7. Details of Unspent CSR amount for the preceding three financial years:

Sl.
No.


Preceding
Financial
Year
Amount
transferred to
Unspent CSR
Account under
section 135 (6)
(inH)
Balance Amount
in Unspent CSR
Account under
subsection (6) of
section 135 (inH)
Amount
spent
in the
Financial
Year (inH)
Amount transferred to
any fund specifed under
Schedule VII as per
section 135(6), if any
Amount transferred to
any fund specifed under
Schedule VII as per
section 135(6), if any
Amount
remaining to
be spent in
succeeding
fnancial
years. (inH)
Defciency,
if any
Amount
(inH)
Date of
transfer
NIL
  • 8.. Whether any capital assets have been created or acquired through Corporate Social Responsibility amount spent in the Financial Year: Yes If Yes, enter the number of Capital assets created/ acquired: 6

Furnish the details relating to such asset(s) so created or acquired through Corporate Social Responsibility amount spent in the Financial Year:

Sr.
No.
Date of creation
or acquisition
of the capital
asset(s)
Amount of CSR
spent for creation
or acquisition of
capital asset (inH)
Details of the entity or public authority or
benefciary under whose name such capital
asset is registered, their address etc.
Provide details of the capital
asset(s) created or acquired
(including complete address
and location of the capital
asset)
1 27.03.2024 16,62,420 Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre, Kirkee,
Pune-411020
Equipment for day-to-day
operations and use
2 31.03.2024 14,22,185 Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali
Mumbai-400066
Construction of gates, signage,
computers and equipments
3 15.03.2024 1,13,680 Takoli Panchayat,Himachal Pradesh Installation of Street Light
4 31.03.2024 4,94,733 Village Authorityof Mandi,Himachal Pradesh Construction of road
5 30.03.2024 2,83,200 Raigad districtprimaryschool Installation of ROplant
6 28.03.2024 4,07,173 Maharashtra Chitalsar Police Station, Ghodbunder
Service Rd, Manpada, Thane West, Maharashtra
400607, Lonavala Gramin Police Station, Maval, Pune
– 410401, Neral Police Station, Karjat, Raigad 410101
Vadgaon Maval Police Station,Pune Gramin.
Computers, printer, Laptop,
CCTV ANPR camera and Rack
TOTAL 43,83,391

Annual Report 2023-24 | 77

  1. Specify the reason(s), if the Company has failed to spend two per cent of the average net profit as per section 135(5): N.A.

Prashant Nagre

Managing Director (DIN: 09165447) May 27, 2024, Thane

Pradeep M. Chandan Chairman CSR Committee (DIN: 0200067)

Registered Office:

A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) – 400 610 Maharashtra, India.

78 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Annexure IX

BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING

Responsible business practices and sustainability lies at the core of work ethics and governance at Fermenta Biotech Limited (‘Fermenta’ / ‘FBL’). As a responsible corporate citizen, we are dedicated to align ourselves with environmental, social and governance norms while doing business responsibly. National Guidelines for Responsible Business Conduct, issued by Ministry of Corporate Affairs serve as a guidance tool in this regard.

SECTION A: GENERAL DISCLOSURES

I. Details of the listed entity

1 Corporate IdentityNumber (CIN) of the Listed Entity L99999MH1951PLC008485
2 Name of the Listed Entity Fermenta Biotech Limited
3 Year of incorporation 1951
4 Registered ofce address A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road Majiwade,
Thane (West) 400 610, Maharashtra, India
5 Corporate address Same as above
6 E-mail [email protected]
7 Telephone 022-67980888
8 Website www.fermentabiotech.com
9 Financialyear for which reportingis beingdone 2023-24
10 Name of the Stock Exchange(s) where shares are listed: BSE Limited
11 Paid-up Capital H14,71,54,935/-
12 Name and contact details (telephone, email address) of the
person who may be contacted in case of any queries on the BRSR
report
Name: Mr. Srikant Sharma
Designation: Company Secretary & Vice President (Legal)
Email id: [email protected]
Contact no: 022-67980888
13 Reporting boundary - Are the disclosures under this report made
on a standalone basis (i.e. only for the entity) or on a consolidated
basis (i.e. for the entity and all the entities which form a part of its
consolidated fnancial statements, taken together)
Disclosures under this report are made on standalone basis.
14 Name of assuranceprovider N.A.
15 Type of assurance obtained N.A.

II. Products/services

16. Details of business activities (accounting for 90% of the turnover):

S.
No.
Description of Main Activity Description of Business Activity % of Turnover of the
entity
1 Manufacturing Manufacturing of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient, Aqua CHL,
Biotechnologyand Nutraceuticalproducts
74%*

* Main business activity, although it is lesser than 90% of the turnover for year under review.

17. Products/Services sold by the entity (accounting for 90% of the entity’s Turnover):

S.
No.
Product/Service NIC Code % of total Turnover
contributed*
1 Vitamin D3 Product range, Phenyramidol HCl and Silicon DryPowder 21001 64%
2 Manufacture of otherpharmaceutical and botanicalproducts n.e.c. 21009 6%
3 Environmental Solutions 37003 4%

* Break-up of main business activity mentioned under point 16.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 79

III. Operations

18. Number of locations where plants and/or operations/offices of the entity are situated:

Location Number ofplants Number of ofces Total
National 4 1 5
International - - -

19. Markets served by the entity

a. Number of locations

Number of locations
Locations Number
National (No. of States) Around 20
International (No. of Countries) Around 60 countries served across various continents

b. What is the contribution of exports as a percentage of the total turnover of the entity?

The Company sells its products in India as well as exports to around 60 countries across the globe. Its export turnover contributed to around 42% of the total turnover of the Company in FY 2023-24.

c. A brief on types of customers:

  • (i) Vitamin D and other nutritional ingredients: Manufacturers of pharmaceuticals, dietary and nutritional supplements, food and beverage, veterinary, feed and rodenticides.

  • (ii) Integrated biotechnology (Enzymes): Manufacturers of oleochemicals, fine chemicals, active pharmaceutical ingredients, food and fragrances, leather, biodiesel.

  • (iii) Environmental Solutions (Waste water management and treatment): Real estate industry.

IV. Employees

20. Details as of the end of the Financial Year: March 31, 2024.

a. Employees and workers (including differently abled):

Sr.
No.
Particulars Total (A) Male Male Female Female
No. (B) % (B / A) No. (C) % (C / A)
EMPLOYEES
1. Permanent (D) 462 435 94.15% 27 5.84%
2. Other than Permanent (E) 23 23 100% 0 0%
3. Total employees (D + E) 485 458 94.43% 27 5.57%
WORKERS
4. Permanent (F) 96 95 98.96% 1 1.04%
5. Other than Permanent (G) 219 214 97.71% 5 2.28%
6. Total Workers (F + G) 315 309 98.09% 6 1.90%
Diferently abled Employees and workers:
Sr.
No.
Particulars Total (A) Male Female
No. (B) % (B / A) No. (C) % (C / A)
DIFFERENTLY ABLED EMPLOYEES
1. Permanent (D) 1 0 0% 1 100%
2. Other than Permanent (E) 0 0 0% 0 0%
3. Total employees (D + E) 1 0 0% 1 100%
DIFFERENTLY ABLED WORKERS
4. Permanent (F) 0 0 0 0 0
5. Other than Permanent (G) 0 0 0 0 0
6. Total diferently abled Workers (F + G) 0 0 0 0 0

b. Differently abled Employees and workers:

80 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

21. Participation / Inclusion / Representation of Women

Particulars Total (A) No. andpercentage of Females No. andpercentage of Females
No. (B) % (B / A)
Board of Directors 11 3 27.27%
KeyManagement Personnel 6* 1 (ED) 16.67%

* includes four Executive Directors (ED) and other KMPs.

22. Turnover rate for permanent employees and workers (trends for the past 3 years)

22. Turnover rate for permanent employees and workers employees and workers ( trends for the past 3 years) trends for the past 3 years) trends for the past 3 years)
Particulars
Permanent
Employees
Permanent Workers
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23 FY 2021-22
Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total
29.17% 19.23% 28.60% 24.47% 32.26% 24.97% 20.07% 5.63% 19.03%
0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%

V. Holding, Subsidiary and Associate Companies (including joint ventures)

23. (a) Names of holding / subsidiary / associate companies / joint ventures

S.
No.
Name of the holding / subsidiary /
associate companies / joint ventures
(A)
Indicate whether
holding/ Subsidiary/
Associate/ Joint
Venture
% of shares
held by listed
entity
Does the entity indicated at column
A, participate in the Business
Responsibility initiatives of the listed
entity? (Yes/No)
1 DVK Investments Private Limited * HoldingCompany Nil All Policies / practices of the Company are
applicable to the subsidiaries to the extent
statutorily required, in conformity with the
applicable law.
2 Aegean Properties Limited * SubsidiaryCompany 100
3 G I Biotech Private Limited $ SubsidiaryCompany 100
4 Fermenta Biotech GmbH SubsidiaryCompany 100
5 Fermenta Biotech (UK) Limited SubsidiaryCompany 100
6 Fermenta Biotech USA LLC SubsidiaryCompany 100
7 Fermenta USA LLC SubsidiaryCompany 52
8 Health and Wellness India Private Ltd. # Associate Company 47.15

* Ceased to exist w.e.f. May 24, 2023 pursuant to effectiveness of Composite Scheme of Amalgamation and Arrangement amongst DVK Investments Private Limited (Transferor Company 1) and Aegean Properties Limited (Transferor Company 2) and Fermenta Biotech Limited (Transferee Company) and their respective Shareholders (“Scheme”)

$ Ceased to exist pursuant to the approval of the Registrar of Companies, Mumbai, for application made by the Company to ROC, filed on February 14, 2023, for removing the name of the Company from the Register of Companies.

# Under liquidation.

VI. CSR Details

  1. (i) Whether CSR is applicable as per section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013: Yes

  2. (ii) Turnover (in H) : H32,891.45 Lakhs (Standalone, as per FY 2022-23)

  3. (iii) Net worth (in H) : H33,605.70 Lakhs (Standalone, as per FY 2022-23)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 81

VII. Transparency and Disclosures Compliances

25. Complaints/Grievances on any of the principles (Principles 1 to 9) under the National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct:

Conduct:
Stakeholder group
from whom complaint
is received
Grievance
Redressal
Mechanism in
Place (Yes/No)
(If Yes, then
provide web-link
for grievance
redresspolicy)
$ $ $ $ $ $ $
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
Number of
complaints
fled during
the year
Number of
complaints
pending
resolution
at close of
the year
Remark Number of
complaints
fled during
the year
Number of
complaints
pending
resolution
at close of
the year
Remark
Communities 0 0 0 0 0 0
Investors (other than
shareholders)
N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A.
Shareholders 3 0 All resolved. 0 0 0
Employees and workers 0 0 0 0 0 0
Customers 0 0 0 0 0 0
Value Chain Partners 0 0 0 0 0 0
Other (please specify) 0 0 0 0 0 0

$ Yes, policies which are statutorily required are available on the Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php and other procedures regarding grievance redressal are integrated in the Company’s internal standard operating procedures.

82 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Financial implications of
the risk or opportunity
(Indicate positive or
negative implications)
Negative Negative Positive Negative
In case of risk, approach to adapt or mitigate The Company being in the pharma sector, the nature of its business requires
the utmost attention to the quality of its product. We have taken various
measures to ensure resilience against the risk, which inter alia include the
following:

Employing rigorous systems and procedures to ensure manufacturing
quality standards, GMP compliance, and other regulatory criteria

Audits conducted to ensure Quality Assurance
The Company lays strong emphasis on maintaining the quality of its product,
sales commitments, and cordial relations with its customers pan India and in
global market. This ensures retention of customers and helps in maintaining
the business.
- The Company’s Codes of Conduct and Business Responsibility Policy lays
strong emphasis on adherence to ethics and business integrity.
Various policies adopted by the Company promote trust, honesty,
accountability and transparency in order to ensure strong value system and
social responsibility in large interest.
Rationale for identifying the risk/
opportunity
Compromise
on
pharmaceutical
product
quality
would
imply
a
compromise on the wellbeing of the
end user. This may also entail failure to
comply with statutory norms. Lapse
in this regard may lead to product
withdrawals, recalls, decreased sales,
reputational risk among other threats.
Competition and practices adopted in
relation thereto by the competitors in
the global market pose a risk for the
Company’s business.
Innovation and R&D plays a crucial
role in the long-term success of the
Company.
Our
research
includes
developing new processes for known
APIs and developing value-added
and diferentiated formulations. Such
developments may lead to an increase
in revenues.
Any breach of ethical and business
integrity may hamper the Company’s
credibility
which
might
adversely
impact the business relations and
employee morale.
Indicate
whether risk
or opportunity
(R/O)
Risk Risk Opportunity Risk
Material
issue
identifed
Product
quality and
safety
Competition Innovation
and R&D
Business
Integrity and
Ethics
S.
No.
1 2 3 4

Annual Report 2023-24 | 83

Financial implications of
the risk or opportunity
(Indicate positive or
negative implications)
Positive Negative
In case of risk, approach to adapt or mitigate - The Company has a philosophy of ‘zero tolerance to non-compliance’.
Statutory compliance and regulatory risks are managed through measures
which inter alia include:

Internal controls and Compliance management systems

Assessment of regulatory and compliance requirements on regular basis

Independent assessments and audits

Monitoring of Legal and regulatory compliance by senior management
and the Board
Rationale for identifying the risk/
opportunity
Employees are Company’s biggest
assets.
Employee
engagement,
safety,
and
well-being
initiatives
drive the enhanced productivity for
the Company. It is an opportunity to
integrate employees’ involvement in
the functioning of the Company, while
ensuring employee satisfaction and
safety at every stage.
The business structure of the Company
attracts applicability of various laws
and
regulations.
The
compliance
requirements are increasing day-by-
day with increasing complexities in
the business dynamics. Any non-
compliance on the part of the Company
is a risk for the Company not only from
fnancial perspective but also from
the perspective of its operations and
credibility.
Indicate
whether risk
or opportunity
(R/O)
Opportunity Risk
Material
issue
identifed
Employee
engagement,
and wellbeing
Statutory and
regulatory
compliance
S.
No.
5 6

84 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

SECTION B: MANAGEMENT AND PROCESS DISCLOSURES

(This section is aimed at helping businesses demonstrate the structures, policies and processes put in place towards adopting the National Guidelines for Responsible Business Conduct (NGRBC) Principles and Core Elements. NGRBC Principles as prescribed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs advocates nine principles referred as P1-P9 as given below.

P1 Businesses should conduct andgovern themselves with integrityand in a manner that is ethical, transparent and accountable
P2 Businesses shouldprovidegoods and services in a manner that is sustainable and safe
P3 Businesses should respect andpromote the well-beingof all employees, includingthose in their value chains
P4 Businesses should respect the interests of and be responsive to all its stakeholders
P5 Businesses should respect andpromote human rights
P6 Businesses should respect and make eforts toprotect and restore the environment
P7 Businesses, when engagingin infuencing public and regulatory policy, should do so in a manner that is responsible and transparent
P8 Businesses shouldpromote inclusivegrowth and equitable development
P9 Businesses should engage with andprovide value to their consumers in a responsible manner
Disclosure Questions Disclosure Questions P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9
Policyand managementprocesses
1 a.
Whether your entity’s policy/ policies cover each principle
and its core elements of the NGRBCs.
Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y
b.
Has thepolicybeen approved bythe Board? (Yes/No) ^
Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y
c.
Web Link of the Policies, if available
https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php
2 Whether the entity has translated the policy into procedures.
(Yes /No)
Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y
3 Do the enlisted policies extend to your value chain partners?
(Yes/No) @
Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y
4 Name of the national and international codes/ certifcations/
labels/ standards (e.g. Forest Stewardship Council, Fairtrade,
Rainforest Alliance, Trustee) standards (e.g.SA 8000, OHSAS,
ISO, BIS) adopted by your entityand mapped to eachprinciple.
#
5 Specifc commitments, goals and targets set by the entity with
defned timelines, if any.
N N N N N N N N N
6 Performance of the entity against the specifc commitments,
goals and targets along-with reasons in case the same are not
met.
Not Applicable

^ The policies which are statutorily required to be adopted have been approved by the Board of Directors. Other policies / procedures either form part of standard operating procedures or are approved by the concerned functional heads in consultation with the management. @ The Company’s policies extend to its value chain partners to the extent applicable.

BRC, FSMA, Kosher, HACCP, FSSC 22000, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, American Vegetarian Association, The Vegetarian Society UK, EDQM-CEP, Halal, USFDA, FSSAI.

Governance, leadership and oversight:

7. Statement by director responsible for the business responsibility report, highlighting ESG related challenges, targets and achievements.

At Fermenta, we create solutions for maintaining the health and hygiene of communities globally – be it through our nutrition portfolio, integrated biotechnology solutions or water management services. We are proud of the role our products including Vitamin D play in preventive health for human and animal nutrition. We cater high quality products that will enable our communities to overcome micronutrient deficiency and contribute towards the global efforts in eliminating malnutrition. Our enzyme platforms provide green chemistry solutions for our consumers to reduce hazardous waste, improve efficiencies and manufacture their products using a cleaner process. Our water and wastewater management and treatment solutions contribute to the imminent need of the hour i.e. water conservation.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 85

We believe that true business excellence can be achieved only by doing business following sound sustainability principles that are based on good corporate governance as well as social, environmental and economic responsibilities. We remain committed to reducing the environmental impact of our operations, practicing ethical sourcing and improving our performance on sustainability. Notably, our sustainability initiatives in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh have been felicitated by the government as part of the Environment Leadership Awards 2021-22.

Our sustained commitment towards our corporate citizenship is visible in our diverse Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities through partnerships with various organizations across locations in India. Fermenta strives to enhance the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion quotient of its workforce. We believe that our corporate values (Discipline, Honesty, Mutual Respect, Perseverance and Result Orientation) lie at the foundation of our business philosophy as we engage with our stakeholders to create shared value.

8 Details of the highest authority responsible for
implementation and oversight of the Business Responsibility
policy(ies).
Details of the highest authority responsible for
implementation and oversight of the Business Responsibility
policy(ies).
Details of the highest authority responsible for
implementation and oversight of the Business Responsibility
policy(ies).
Details of the highest authority responsible for
implementation and oversight of the Business Responsibility
policy(ies).
Details of the highest authority responsible for
implementation and oversight of the Business Responsibility
policy(ies).
Details of the highest authority responsible for
implementation and oversight of the Business Responsibility
policy(ies).
Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors
9 Does the entity have a specifed Committee of the Board/
Director responsible for decision-making on sustainability
related issues? (Yes / No). Ifyes,provide details.
Mr. Prashant Nagre
Managing Director
10 Details of Review of NGRBCs by the Company
Subject for Review Indicate whether review was undertaken
by Director / Committee of the Board/ Any
other Committee
Frequency (Annually/ Half yearly/ Quarterly/
Any other – please specify)
P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9
Performance against above
policies and follow up action
Policies, as applicable, are reviewed by the Board of Directors and/or management of the Company.
Policies and performance against policies are reviewed by the management at periodic intervals
via-a-vis statutory requirements and, accordingly, necessary amendments are made to the policies,
as applicable.
Compliance with statutory
requirements of relevance to the
principles, and, rectifcation of
anynon- compliances
The Company has necessary procedures in place to ensure the compliance with all relevant
regulations.
11. Has the entity carried out independent
assessment/ evaluation of the working of its
policies by an external agency? (Yes/No). If
yes, provide name of the agency.
P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9
The policies, processes and compliances, as applicable, are assessed by internal
auditors and statutory auditors, as per the statutory requirements. Policies, as
applicable, are reviewed by the Board of Directors and/or management of the
Company at periodic intervals via-a-vis statutory requirements, and, accordingly,
necessaryamendments are made to thepolicies, as applicable.

12. If answer to question (1) above is “No” i.e. not all Principles are covered by a policy, reasons to be stated:

Principle 7 (P7) is not applicable to the Company.

Principle 7 (P7) is not applicable to the Company.
Disclosure Questions P 1 P 2 P 3 P 4 P 5 P 6 P 7 P 8 P 9
The entitydoes not consider the Principles material to its business (Yes/No) N.A. * N.A.
The entity is not at a stage where it is in a position to formulate and implement
thepolicies on specifedprinciples (Yes/No)
N.A. * N.A.
The entity does not have the fnancial or/human and technical resources
available for the task (Yes/No)
N.A. * N.A.
It isplanned to be done in the next fnancialyear (Yes/No) N.A. * N.A.
Anyother reason (please specify) N.A. * N.A.

* Principle 7 (P7) is not applicable to the Company.

86 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

SECTION C: PRINCIPLE WISE PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE

This section is aimed at helping entities demonstrate their performance in integrating the Principles and Core Elements with key processes and decisions. The information sought is categorized as “Essential” and “Leadership”. While the essential indicators are expected to be disclosed by every entity that is mandated to file this report, the leadership indicators may be voluntarily disclosed by entities which aspire to progress to a higher level in their quest to be socially, environmentally and ethically responsible.

PRINCIPLE 1 Businesses should conduct and govern themselves with integrity, and in a manner that is Ethical, Transparent and Accountable.

1. Percentage coverage by training and awareness programmes on any of the Principles during the financial year:

Segment Total number of
training and awareness
programmes held
Topics / principles covered
under the training and its
impact
%age of persons in
respective category
covered by the awareness
programmes
Board of Directors 4 nos. See note (i) below 100%
KeyManagerial Personnel 100%
Employees other than BoD and KMPs 12 nos. See note (ii) below 100%
Workers 100%

Note.

  • (i) The Directors of the Company at the time of their appointment are oriented on the Company’s philosophy, core values, code of business conduct and other codes / policies, and their roles and responsibilities as the director vis-à-vis Company’s operations, industry in which it operates and statutory requirements.

At each meeting of the Board and Committees, the Directors and KMPs are apprised, inter alia, of the material developments regarding functioning and operations of the Company. Familiarization programmes are undertaken to keep the directors apprised of Company’s strategic plans, regulatory changes, any major risk that needs to be attended, and overview of business and operations.

  • (ii) At the time of joining, the employees and workers are acquainted on various functional and non-functional aspects of the Company. Orientation program focuses on the Company’s philosophy, core values, ethical business practices, code of business conduct, prohibition of insider trading code, Company’s work culture and other policies including policy on Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) at the Workplace, Whistle Blower Policy.

    • The Company strongly believes in upskilling its employees and workers by providing various functional as well as general trainings as and when required. We have identified various skills which are necessary for the employees and workers in relation to their work requirements. Employees and workers are provided with necessary training programmes not only pertaining to the respective areas of work but also overall concerning their wellbeing, health & safety.

2. Details of fines / penalties /punishment/ award/ compounding fees/ settlement amount paid in proceedings (by the entity or by directors / KMPs) with regulators/ law enforcement agencies/ judicial institutions, in the financial year, in the following format (Note: the entity shall make disclosures on the basis of materiality as specified in Regulation 30 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Obligations) Regulations, 2015 and as disclosed on the entity’s website):

Monetary
NGRBC
Principle
Name of the regulatory/
enforcement agencies/ judicial
institutions
Amount (In
INR)
Brief of the
Case
Has an appeal
been preferred?
(Yes/No)
Penalty/ Fine NIL NIL NIL NIL N.A.
Settlement NIL NIL NIL NIL N.A.
Compoundingfee NIL NIL NIL NIL N.A.
Non-Monetary
NGRBC
Principle
Name of the regulatory/
enforcement agencies/ judicial
institutions
Brief of the Case Has an appeal
been preferred?
(Yes/No)
Imprisonment NIL NIL NIL NIL N.A.
Punishment NIL NIL NIL NIL N.A.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 87

3. Of the instances disclosed in Question 2 above, details of the Appeal/ Revision preferred in cases where monetary or nonmonetary action has been appealed.

Case Details Name of the regulatory/ enforcement agencies/judicial institutions
NA NA

4. Does the entity have an anti-corruption or anti-bribery policy? If yes, provide details in brief and if available, provide a weblink to the policy.

Yes. The Company has adopted Business Responsibility Policy which covers the same. The policy is available on the website of the Company at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

5. Number of Directors/KMPs/employees/workers against whom disciplinary action was taken by any law enforcement agency for the charges of bribery/ corruption:

Particulars
Directors
KMPs
Employees
Workers
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
NIL
NIL
NIL
NIL
NIL
NIL
NIL
NIL

6. Details of complaints with regard to conflict of interest:

Particulars
Number of complaints received in relation to issues
of Confict of Interest of the Directors
Number of complaints received in relation to issues
of Confict of Interest of the KMPs
FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
Number
Remarks
NIL
NIL
NIL
NIL
FY 2022-23
Number
Remarks
NIL
NIL
NIL
NIL
Number Remarks Remarks
NIL NIL NIL
NIL NIL NIL

7. Provide details of any corrective action taken or underway on issues related to fines / penalties / action taken by regulators/ law enforcement agencies/ judicial institutions, on cases of corruption and conflicts of interest. – NOT APPLICABLE.

8. Number of days of accounts payables ((Accounts payable*365) / Cost of goods/services procured) in the following format:

Number of days of accountspayables FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
165 days
184 days

9. Openness of business

(Provide details of concentration of purchases and sales with trading houses, dealers, and related parties along-with loans and advances & investments, with related parties, in the following format:)

Parameter Metrics
a.
Purchases from tradinghouses as % of totalpurchases
b. Number of tradinghouses wherepurchases are made from
c.
Purchases from top 10 trading houses as % of total purchases
from tradinghouses
a.
Sales to dealers / distributors as % of total sales
b. Number of dealers / distributors to whom sales are made
c.
Sales to top 10 dealers / distributors as % of total sales to
dealers / distributors
a.
Purchases (Purchases with relatedparties / Total Purchases)
b. Sales (Sales to relatedparties / Total Sales)
c.
Loans & advances (Loans & advances given to related parties
/ Total loans & advances)
d. Investments
(Investments in relatedparties / Total Investments made)
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
24%
758
50%
6.8%
4
100%
Nil
6.2%
54.02%
70.22%
Concentration of Purchases 24%
758
50%
Concentration of Sales 10.80%
4
100%
Share of RPTs in Nil
2.07%
46.62%
77.33%

88 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

PRINCIPLE 2 Businesses should provide goods and services in a manner that is sustainable and safe

1. Percentage of R&D and capital expenditure (capex) investments in specific technologies to improve the environmental and social impacts of product and processes to total R&D and capex investments made by the entity, respectively.

R & D
Capex
2023-24 2022-23
-
-
Details of improvements in
environmental and social impacts
- -
- -

2. a. Does the entity have procedures in place for sustainable sourcing?

We have standard operating procedures for the evaluation and selection of our vendors for sourcing of material who are responsible suppliers and adhere to the uniform quality, social and environmental standards as Fermenta.

  • b. If yes, what percentage of inputs were sourced sustainably? 100%.

3. Describe the processes in place to safely reclaim your products for reusing, recycling and disposing at the end of life, for (a) Plastics (including packaging) (b) E-waste (c) Hazardous waste and (d) other waste.

Product Processes inplace to safely reclaim theproduct
Plastics (including packaging) The Company has engaged SPCB registered plastic waste processors to collect plastic waste from
Company’s factories. These plastic waste processors send it for recycling/end of life disposal after
treatment. This reduces wastage ofplastic at the factorylevel itself.
E-waste 100% e-waste is sold to authorised vendors.
Hazardous waste For recycling and disposal of hazardous waste, all hazardous waste of the Company is segregated
at the factory level and sent to the respective State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) authorised
waste managementprocessor for disposal in accordance with regulatorynorms.
Other waste Non-hazardous waste such as glass, MS scrap, wood waste, boiler ash etc. is sent to authorised
recyclers.

4. Whether Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is applicable to the entity’s activities (Yes / No). If yes, whether the waste collection plan is in line with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) plan submitted to Pollution Control Boards? If not, provide steps taken to address the same.

Not applicable.

  • PRINCIPLE 3 Businesses should respect and promote the well-being of all employees, including those in their value chains 1. a. Details of measures for the well-being of employees:
Category Total
(A)
% of employees covered by % of employees covered by % of employees covered by % of employees covered by % of employees covered by % of employees covered by % of employees covered by % of employees covered by % of employees covered by % of employees covered by
Health insurance **Accident insurance ** Maternity benefts Paternity Benefts Day Care facilities
Number
(B)
% (B / A) Number
(C)
% (C / A) Number
(D)
**% (D / A) ** Number
(E)
% (E / A) Number
(F)
% (F / A)
Permanent employees
Male 435 435 100% 435 100% NA NA 435 100% 0 0
Female 27 27 100% 27 100% 27 100% NA NA 0 0
Total 462 462 100% 462 100% 27 5.84% 435 94.16% 0 0
Other than Permanent employees
Male 23 23 100% 23 100% NA NA 0 0 0 0
Female 0 0 100% 0 100% 0 0 NA NA 0 0
Total 23 23 100% 23 100% 0 0 0 0 0 0

Annual Report 2023-24 | 89

b. Details of measures for the well-being of workers:

Category Total
(A)
% of workers covered by % of workers covered by % of workers covered by % of workers covered by % of workers covered by % of workers covered by % of workers covered by % of workers covered by % of workers covered by % of workers covered by
Health insurance **Accident insurance ** Maternity benefts Paternity Benefts Day Care facilities
Number
(B)
% (B / A) Number
(C)
% (C / A) Number
(D)
**% (D / A) ** Number
(E)
% (E / A) Number
(F)
% (F / A)
Permanent employees
Male 95 95 100% 95 100% NA NA 95 100% 0 0
Female 1 1 100% 1 100% 1 100% NA NA 0 0
Total 96 96 100% 96 100% 1 1.04% 95 98.96% 0 0
Other than Permanent employees
Male 214 214 100% 214 100% NA NA 0 0 0 0
Female 5 5 100% 5 100% 5 100% NA NA 0 0
Total 219 219 100% 219 100% 5 2.28% 0 0 0 0
  • c. Spending on measures towards well-being of employees and workers (including permanent and other than permanent) in the following format.
c. Spending on measures towards well-being of employees a
in the following format.
nd workers (including permane nt and other than permanent)
FY 2023-24
Total amount :H8,681,888/-
(0.28%)
FY 2022-23
Total amount:H97,45,395/-
(0.30%)
Cost incurred on well-being measures as a % of total revenue of
the Company

2. Details of retirement benefits, for Current Financial Year and Previous Financial Year.

Benefts
PF
Gratuity
ESI
Others – NPS
FY 2023-24 Deducted and
deposited with
the authority
(Y/N/N.A.)
Yes
Yes
Yes
NA
FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23
No. of
employees
covered as
a % of total
employees
No. of workers
covered as
a % of total
workers
No. of
employees
covered as
a % of total
employees
No. of workers
covered as a %
of total
Deducted and
deposited with
the authority
(Y/N/N.A.)
100% 100% 100% 100% Yes
100% 100% 100% 100% Yes
7.63% 26.98% 5% 34% Yes
NA NA NA NA NA

3. Accessibility of workplaces

Are the premises / offices of the entity accessible to differently abled employees and workers, as per the requirements of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016? If not, whether any steps are being taken by the entity in this regard.

Yes, the premises/ offices of the Company has infrastructure available for differently abled individuals.

4. Does the entity have an equal opportunity policy as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016? If so, provide a weblink to the policy? –

Social Compliance Policy is available at https://fermentabiotech.com/policies.php

5. Return to work and Retention rates of permanent employees and workers that took parental leave.

Gender Permanent employees Permanent employees Permanent workers Permanent workers
Return to work rate Retention rate Return to work rate Retention rate
Male 100% 100% 100% 100%
Female 100% 100% 100% 100%
Total 100% 100% 100% 100%

90 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

6. Is there a mechanism available to receive and redress grievances for the following categories of employees and worker? If yes, give details of the mechanism in brief.

Yes/No

(If Yes, then give details of the mechanism in brief)

Permanent Workers Yes. FBL has Grievance Redressal Committee to address grievances of employees across Other than Permanent Workers all locations. We also encourage employees to voice their concerns through a suggestion Permanent Employees box placed at all facilities. FBL also has POSH Policy in place, and the aggrieved women at Other than Permanent Employees workplace can approach Internal Committee of the Company.

7. Membership of employees and worker in association(s) or Unions recognized by the listed entity:

Membership of emplo yees and worker in association(s) or Unions recogni zed by the listed entity: zed by the listed entity: zed by the listed entity:
Category Total
employees
/ workers in
respective
category (A)
0
0
95
1
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
Total
employees
/ workers in
respective
category (C)
No. of employees
/ workers in
respective
category, who
are part of
association(s) or
Union (D)
% (D / C)
0
0
0
0
0
0
95
95
100%
1
1
100%
No. of employees
/ workers in
respective
category, who
are part of
association(s) or
Union (B)
%
(B / A)
No. of employees
/ workers in
respective
category, who
are part of
association(s) or
Union (D)
% (D / C)
Total Permanent
Employees
-
Male
0 0 0 0
-
Female
0 0 0 0
Total Permanent
workers
-
Male
95 100% 95 100%
-
Female
1 100% 1 100%

8. Details of training given to employees and workers:

Details of tra ining give n to employees and workers: n to employees and workers: n to employees and workers: n to employees and workers:
Category
Employees
FY 2023-24 Total
(D)
FY 2022-23
Total
(A)
On Health and
safety measures
No. (B)
% (B/A)
On Skill
upgradation
On Health and
safety measures
On Skill
upgradation
% (B/A) No. (C) % (C/A) No. (E) % (E/D) No. (F) % (F/D)
Male
Female
Total
435 435 100% 435 100% 429
25
454
429 100% 429 100%
27 27 100% 27 100% 25 100% 25 100%
462 462 100% 462 100% 454 100% 454 100%
Workers
Male
Female
Total
95 95 100% 95 100% 95
1
96
95 100% 95 100%
1 1 100% 1 100% 1 100% 1 100%
96 96 100% 96 100% 96 100% 96 100%

9. Details of performance and career development reviews of employees and worker:

Category
Employees
Male
Female
Total
Workers
Male
Female
Total
FY 2023-24
Total (A)
Number (B)
% (B / A)
FY 2023-24
Total (A)
Number (B)
% (B / A)
FY 2023-24
Total (A)
Number (B)
% (B / A)
FY 2022-23
Total (A) Number (B) Total (C) Total (D) % (D/C)
435 435 100%
100%
100%
429 369 86.01%
27 27 25 25 100%
462 462 454 394 86.78%
95 95 100%
100%
100%
95 95 100%
1 1 1 1 100%
96 96 96 96 100%

Annual Report 2023-24 | 91

10. Health and safety management system:

  • a. Whether an occupational health and safety management system has been implemented by the entity? (Yes/ No). If yes, the coverage such system?

  • Yes. In accordance with the Environment, Health and Safety Policy of the Company, Occupational Health and Safety Management System has been implemented at all in house manufacturing facilities and Research & Development laboratory. Further, all other locations also comply with the applicable statutory requirement pertaining to health and safety. The Company’s health and safety management system is based on ISO 45001, the International Standard for Occupational Health and Safety.

  • b. What are the processes used to identify work-related hazards and assess risks on a routine and non-routine basis by the entity?

The Company has Environment, Health Safety and Sustainability Policy in place. The health and safety guidelines are applicable to all operating locations of the Company and lay down required parameters to be followed at all locations. Some of the key processes for identifying work-related hazards and assessing risks on a routine and nonroutine basis are given below:

  • I. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) is used for routine and non-routine activities.

  • II. Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) is being used for identifying hazard related to chemical processes.

  • III. Chemical Risk Assessment is used for identifying health hazards during handling of chemicals.

  • IV. Fire Risk Assessment is done for handling fire related risks.

  • c. Whether you have processes for workers to report the work related hazards and to remove themselves from such risks. (Y/N)

  • Yes, all workers at plants can report work related hazards through an internal reporting system. All the work hazards reported are monitored and actioned upon through Safety Committee at the plant. A process of ‘stoppage of work due to unsafe act and unsafe condition’ to safeguard employees’ interest is in place to report or remove themselves from situations they believe could cause injury. At non-manufacturing locations, the workers approach the location head to report any work-related hazards and to remove themselves from such risks.

  • d. Do the employees/ worker of the entity have access to non-occupational medical and healthcare services? (Yes/ No) Yes, Company’s various locations have empaneled doctors and all employees/workers are covered under the Company’s health insurance and personal accident policy.

11. Details of safety-related incidents, in the following format:

Details of safety-related incidents, in the following format:
Safety Incident/Number Category*
Employees
Workers
Employees
Workers
Employees
Workers
Employees
Workers
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) (per one million-person hours worked) 0 0
0 0
Total recordable work-related injuries 0 0
0 0
No. of fatalities 0 0
0 0
High consequence work-related injury or ill-health (excluding fatalities) 0 0
0 0

* Including in the contract workforce.

12. Describe the measures taken by the entity to ensure a safe and healthy workplace.

To ensure the safe and healthy workplace, we have implemented SOPs which are available in local language and which need to be followed by every personnel working in the Company. Use of safety material are mandatory for concerned employes/workers. Mock drills and fire drills are carried out to evaluate the emergency readiness as well as safety measures in the event of any unexpected or undesirable occurrences. Highest standards of hygiene and housekeeping are maintained. The Company operates on a well-maintained HVAC system.

92 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

13. Number of Complaints on the following made by employees and workers:

WorkingConditions
Health & Safety
FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 Filed during
the year
0
0
FY 2022-23
Filed during
the year
Pending
resolution at
the end ofyear
Remarks Pending
resolution at
the end ofyear
Remarks
0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0

14. Assessments for the year:

Assessments for the year:
% of your plants and ofces that were assessed (by entity or
statutory authorities or thirdparties)
Health and safety practices 100
WorkingConditions 100

15. Provide details of any corrective action taken or underway to address safety-related incidents (if any) and on significant risks / concerns arising from assessments of health & safety practices and working conditions. –

The Company continuously monitors and assesses its health and safety practices and working conditions. Investigation is conducted in case any incident is reported using various methodology to identify the root cause. The investigation team presents corrective and preventive measures which is reviewed at various levels by the local management and central teams. Such corrective actions are then deployed horizontally across locations.

PRINCIPLE 4: Businesses should respect the interests of and be responsive to all its stakeholders.

1. Describe the processes for identifying key stakeholder groups of the entity.

The entire value chain of Fermenta is facilitated by its stakeholders which inter alia include employees, workers, shareholders, customers, communities, suppliers, regulators and lenders. These stakeholders are crucial for Company’s very existence, the overall development and sustainable growth of its business.

Stakeholder identification is a continuous and on-going process at Fermenta. The Company has identified internal and external group of stakeholders. Policies at Fermenta also aim at ensuring overall Stakeholders’ satisfaction.

2. List stakeholder groups identified as key for your entity and the frequency of engagement with each stakeholder group.

Stakeholder
Group
Whether
identifed as
Vulnerable &
Marginalized
Group (Yes/
No)
Channels of communication
(Email, SMS, Newspaper,
Pamphlets, Advertisement,
Community Meetings, Notice
Board, Website), Other
Frequency of
engagement
(Annually /
Half yearly /
Quarterly /
others)
Purpose and scope of engagement including
key topics and concerns raised during such
engagement
Shareholders No
General Meetings

Stock Exchange intimations

Investor presentations /
Annual reports & quarterly
results

Press releases

Company’s website
Ongoing Keeping
shareholders
updated
about
the
Company’s business performance is crucial. We
value acknowledging their queries and inputs and
expectations from Company.
Customers No
Customer meets

Direct communication

Brochures

Social media

Company’s website
Need basis Our entire business in dependent upon customers.
Understanding customers’ expectations, their
satisfaction and retention is at the core of
Fermenta’s business.
Engagement and good relationship with customers
helps the Companyin Business Development.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 93

Stakeholder
Group
Whether
identifed as
Vulnerable &
Marginalized
Group (Yes/
No)
Channels of communication
(Email, SMS, Newspaper,
Pamphlets, Advertisement,
Community Meetings, Notice
Board, Website), Other
Frequency of
engagement
(Annually /
Half yearly /
Quarterly /
others)
Purpose and scope of engagement including
key topics and concerns raised during such
engagement
Employees
and Workers
No
Senior management
interactions

HR communications

Performance appraisal
meetings/review

Exit interviews

Union meetings, Company’s
website

HRMS (System)
Continually Employees are our biggest asset and pillars of our
functioning. Regular interactions with them help
the Company understand their expectations and
grievances which in order helps Company build
a strong employee base with loyalty and low
attrition rate.
Suppliers No
Meetings

Supplier audits

Facility visits
Need basis Regular engagements will help to ensure timely
receipt of materials, their quality and safety
amongst other critical services to ensure continuity
of business operations.
Regulators No
Meetings

Seminars/ Webinars

Ofcial communications

Statutory publications
Need basis We aspire for full compliance with all the applicable
regulations. Interactions with the Government
and Regulators help us understand statutory and
procedural requirements and resolve any issues or
lapses in relation thereto.
Communities No
Interactions through CSR
initiatives
Need basis Fermenta, being a responsible corporate citizen,
strongly believes in growing together with the
community. Hence, our CSR programmes helps
in community development. The Company also
fulfls its manpower requirement by employing the
people from the nearby location where it has its
business operations to the extentpossible.

PRINCIPLE 5 Businesses should respect and promote human rights

1. Employees and workers who have been provided training on human rights issues and policy(ies) of the entity, in the following format:

Category
Employees
Permanent
Other thanpermanent
Total Employees
Workers
Permanent
Other thanpermanent
Total Workers
FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
Total (C)
No. of
employees /
workers
covered (D)
% (D / C)
454
454
100%
22
22
100%
476
476
100%
96
96
100%
216
216
100%
312
312
100%
FY 2022-23
Total (C)
No. of
employees /
workers
covered (D)
% (D / C)
454
454
100%
22
22
100%
476
476
100%
96
96
100%
216
216
100%
312
312
100%
FY 2022-23
Total (C)
No. of
employees /
workers
covered (D)
% (D / C)
454
454
100%
22
22
100%
476
476
100%
96
96
100%
216
216
100%
312
312
100%
Total (A) No. of
employees /
workers
covered (B)
% (B / A)
462 462 100%
23 23 100%
485 485 100%
96 96 100% 96 100%
219 219 100% 216 100%
315 315 100% 312 100%

94 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

2. Details of minimum wages paid to employees and workers, in the following format:

Category
Employees
Permanent
Male
Female
Other than Permanent
Male
Female
Workers
Permanent
Male
Female
Other than Permanent
Male
Female
FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 Total
(D)
429
25
22
0
95
1
212
4
FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23
Total
(A)
Equal to
Minimum Wage
More than
Minimum Wage
Equal to
Minimum Wage
More than
Minimum Wage
No.(B) % (B/A) No. (C) % (C/A) No. (E) % (E /D) No. (F) % (F/ D)
435 0 0 435 100% 0 0 429 100%
27 0 0 27 100% 0 0 25 100%
23 0 0 23 100% 0 0 22 100%
0 0 0 0 100% 0 0 0 0
95 0 0 95 100% 0 0 95 100%
1 0 0 1 100% 0 0 1 100%
214 214 100% 0 0 212 100% 0 0
5 5 100% 0 0 4 100% 0 0

3. Details of remuneration/salary/wages:

  • (a) Median remuneration / wages:
Median remuneration / wages:
Male Female
Number Median remuneration/
salary/ wages of respective
category
Number Median remuneration/
salary/ wages of respective
category
Board of Directors (BoD) 3 17,536,700/- 1 10,938,132/-
KeyManagerial Personnel 2 6,569,472/- 0 0
Employees other than BoD and KMP 430 555,007/- 26 640,034/-
Workers 95 365226/- 1 282,750/-
Gross wages paid to females as % of total wages paid by the entity, in the following format:
FY 2023-24
Gross wagespaid to females as % of total wages
7%
FY 2022-23
8%
FY 2023-24
7%

(b) Gross wages paid to females as % of total wages paid by the entity, in the following format:

4. Do you have a focal point (Individual/ Committee) responsible for addressing human rights impacts or issues caused or contributed to by the business? (Yes/No)

Yes. Human Resource Department is responsible for the same.

5. Describe the internal mechanisms in place to redress grievances related to human rights issues.

The Company has Policies on Human Rights which are applicable to all its employees and suppliers & service providers. The said Policies and their implementation are directed towards adherence to applicable laws and upholding the spirit of human rights. The Company has in place a Business Responsibility Policy. A grievance redressal system to facilitate open and structured discussions is available at all units and locations to ensure that grievances related to labour practices and human rights are addressed and resolved in a fair and just manner.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 95

6. Number of Complaints on the following made by employees and workers:

Sexual Harassment
Discrimination at workplace
Child Labour
Forced Labour / InvoluntaryLabour
Wages
Other human rights related issues
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
Filed during
the year
Pending
resolution
at the end of
year
Remarks Filed during
the year
Pending
resolution
at the end of
year
Remarks
Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil

7. Complaints filed under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013:

Total Complaints reported under Sexual Harassment on of Women at Workplace (Prevention,
Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH)
Complaints on POSH as a % of female employees / workers
Complaints on POSH upheld
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil
Nil

8. Mechanisms to prevent adverse consequences to the complainant in discrimination and harassment cases.

As part of Whistleblower Policy and POSH Policy, the Company protects identity of the complainant/ whistleblower. All such matters are dealt in strict confidence and based on facts of the case.

9. Do human rights requirements form part of your business agreements and contracts?

It depends on the type and nature of agreement.

10. Assessments for the year:

% of your plants and offices that were assessed (by entity or statutory authorities or third parties) Child labour Forced/involuntary labour Sexual harassment 100%, assessed by the Company. Discrimination at workplace Wages Others

11. Provide details of any corrective actions taken or underway to address significant risks / concerns arising from the assessments at Question 9 above. – Not Applicable

96 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

PRINCIPLE 6: Businesses should respect and make efforts to protect and restore the environment.

1. Details of total energy consumption (in Joules or multiples) and energy intensity, in the following format:

Parameter
From renewable sources in MJ
Total electricityconsumption (A)
Total fuel consumption (B)
EnergyConsumption Through Other Sources (C) (Solar)
Total energy consumed from renewable sources (A+B+C)
From non-renewable sources in MJ
Total electricityconsumption (D)
Total fuel consumption (E)
Energyconsumption through other sources (F)
Total energy consumed from non-renewable sources (D+E+F)
Energy intensity per rupee of turnover
(Total energyconsumed / Revenue from operations))
Energy intensity per rupee of turnover adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP)
(Total energyconsumed / Revenue from operations adjusted for PPP)
Energyintensityin terms ofphysical output
Energyintensity(optional) – the relevant metric maybe selected bythe entity
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
0
0
1,24,930.8
1,24,930.8
4,70,63,714.4
3,61,73,588.4
2,37,975.98
8,34,75,278.78
0.02541654
-
-
-
0
0
1,33,153.20
1,33,153.20
2,83,01,256
57,51,518.40
63,018
3,42,48,945.6
0.01492719
-
-
-

Note : Indicate if any independent assessment/ evaluation/assurance has been carried out by an external agency? (Y/N) If yes, name of the external agency – N.A.

2. Does the entity have any sites / facilities identified as designated consumers (DCs) under the Performance, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme of the Government of India? (Y/N) If yes, disclose whether targets set under the PAT scheme have been achieved. In case targets have not been achieved, provide the remedial action taken, if any. – N.A.

3. Provide details of the following disclosures related to water, in the following format:

Parameter
Water withdrawal by source (in kilolitres)
(i) Surface water
(ii) Groundwater
(iii) Thirdpartywater
(iv) Seawater / desalinated water
(v) Others
Total volume of water withdrawal (in kiloliters) (i + ii + iii + iv + v)
Total volume of water consumption (in kiloliters)
Water intensity per rupee of turnover
(Total water consumption / Revenue from operations)
Water intensity per rupee of turnover adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP)
(Total water consumption / Revenue from operations adjusted for PPP)
Water intensity in terms ofphysical output
Water intensity (optional) – the relevant metric may be selected by the entity
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
0
0
97,177.8
0
0
97,177.8
97,177.8
0.029544464
-
-
-
0
13,599.56
86,800.62
0
0
1,00,400.18
1,00,400.18
0.043758795
-
-
-

Note : Indicate if any independent assessment/ evaluation/assurance has been carried out by an external agency? (Y/N) If yes, name of the external agency. - N.A.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 97

4. Provide the following details related to water discharged:

Parameter
Water discharge by destination and level of treatment (in kilolitres)
(i)
To surface water
-
No treatment
-
With treatment –please specifylevel of treatment
(ii) To Groundwater
-
No treatment
-
With treatment –please specifylevel of treatment
(iii) To Seawater
-
No treatment
-
With treatment –please specifylevel of treatment
(iv) Sent to thirdparties
-
No treatment
-
With treatment –please specifylevel of treatment
(v) Others
-
No treatment
-
With treatment –please specifylevel of treatment (Primary, Secondary& Tertiary)
Total water discharges (in kiloliters)
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
47,747
47,747
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
43,863
43,863

Note : Indicate if any independent assessment/ evaluation/assurance has been carried out by an external agency? (Y/N) If yes, name of the external agency. N.A.

5. Has the entity implemented a mechanism for Zero Liquid Discharge? If yes, provide details of its coverage and implementation. Nil.

6. Please provide details of air emissions (other than GHG emissions) by the entity, in the following format:

Parameter Please specifyunit
mg/nm3
mg/nm3
mg/nm3
-
-
-
-
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
25.87
19.424
21.852
-
-
-
-
NOx 28.422
SOx 22.526
Particulate matter (PM) 24.332
Persistent organicpollutants (POP) -
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) -
Hazardous airpollutants (HAP) -
Others –please specify -

Note: Indicate if any independent assessment/ evaluation/assurance has been carried out by an external agency? (Y/N) If yes, name of the external agency. N.A.

7. Provide details of greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions) & its intensity, in the following format:

Parameter Unit
Metric tonnes of
CO2 equivalent
Metric tonnes of
CO2 equivalent
-
-
-
-
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Scope 1 emissions(Break-up of the GHG into CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs,
PFCs, SF6, NF3, if available)
-
Total Scope 2 emissions(Break-up of the GHG into CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs,
PFCs, SF6, NF3, if available)
-
Total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emission intensity per rupee of turnover(Total
Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions / Revenue from operations)
-
Total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emission intensity per rupee of turnover
adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP)(Total Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG
emissions / Revenue from operations adjusted for PPP)
-
Total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emission intensity in terms ofphysical output -
Total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emission intensity(optional) – the relevant
metric maybe selected bythe entity
-

Note : Indicate if any independent assessment/ evaluation/assurance has been carried out by an external agency? (Y/N) If yes, name of the external agency. N.A.

98 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

8. Does the entity have any project related to reducing Green House Gas emission? If Yes, then provide details.

Yes. We work towards improving the energy efficiency across operational locations and enhance the proportion of renewable energy sources (electricity and biofuels) in the total energy mix.

We have 35.3 KW of solar installation in operation, supplying the electricity to our facilities in Maharashtra, and further plan to increase the share of renewable energy.

9. Provide details related to waste management by the entity, in the following format:

Provide details related to waste management by the entity, in the following format:
Parameter FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
Total Wastegenerated (in metric tonnes)
Plastic waste(A) 0.34 0.198
E-waste(B) 0.274 0.5031
Bio-medical waste(C) 0 0
Construction and demolition waste(D) 0 0
Batterywaste(E) 0.189 0
Radioactive waste(F) 0 0
Other Hazardous waste. Please specify, if any.(G) 596.722 910.431
Other Non-hazardous waste generated (H). Please specify, if any. (Break-up by composition
i.e.bymaterials relevant to the sector)
1)
Wet Garbage
20.0 4.8
2)
STP sludge
4.0 1.2
3)
DryGarbage
21.8 12.35
Total (A + B + C + D + E + F + G + H) 619.325 929.48
Waste intensity per rupee of turnover 0.00026 0.00028
(Total wastegenerated / Revenue from operations)
Waste intensity per rupee of turnover adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) - -
(Total wastegenerated / Revenue from operations adjusted for PPP)
Waste intensity in terms ofphysical output - -
Waste intensity (optional) – the relevant metric may be selected by the entity - -
For each category of waste generated, total waste recovered through recycling, re-using or other recovery operations (in
metric tonnes)
Category of waste
(i) Recycled 15.98 124.70
(ii) Re-used 24 6
(iii) Other recoveryoperations - -
Total 39.98 130.7
For each category of wastegenerated, total waste disposed by nature of disposal method (in metric tonnes)
Category of waste
(i) Incineration 2.025 322.13
(ii) Landflling 327.394 462.08
(iii) Other disposal operations - -
Total 329.419 784.22

Note: Indicate if any independent assessment/ evaluation/assurance has been carried out by an external agency? (Y/N) If yes, name of the external agency. N.A.

10. Briefly describe the waste management practices adopted in your establishments. Describe the strategy adopted by your Company to reduce usage of hazardous and toxic chemicals in your products and processes and the practices adopted to manage such wastes.

FBL has consistently scaled up its waste management practices by reducing generated quantities and directing waste to authorised Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDF). We are increasing the share of recycling and coprocessing to bring down the quantity of waste disposed to landfills. We have dedicated storage area for different type of waste (E-waste, hazardous and non-hazardous) and waste segregation is done at source. Hazardous waste packing is done into compatible packing material and all types of waste are labelled, stored and disposed of as per applicable rules and consent to operate.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 99

11. If the entity has operations/offices in/around ecologically sensitive areas (such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, wetlands, biodiversity hotspots, forests, coastal regulation zones etc.) where environmental approvals / clearances are required, please specify details in the following format:

**Sr. No. ** Location of operations/
ofces
Type of operations Whether the conditions of environmental approval /
clearance are being complied with? (Y/N)
If no, the reasons thereof and corrective action taken, if any.
No

12. Details of environmental impact assessments of projects undertaken by the entity based on applicable laws, in the current financial year:

During FY 2022-23 and FY 2023-24 we didn’t require to perform any Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

Name and brief
details of project
EIA Notifcation
No.
Date Whether conducted by
independent external
agency (Yes / No)
Results communicated
in public domain (Yes
/ No)
Relevant Web link
No

13. Is the entity compliant with the applicable environmental law/ regulations/ guidelines in India; such as the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, Environment protection act and rules thereunder (Y/N). If not, provide details of all such non-compliances, in the following format: Yes

(Y/N). I f not, provide details of all su ch non-compliances, in th e following format:Yes
S. No. Specify the law / regulation
/ guidelines which was not
complied with
Provide details of the
non- compliance
Any fnes / penalties / action taken
by regulatory agencies such as
pollution control boards or by courts
Corrective action
taken, if any
Nil

PRINCIPLE 7 Businesses, when engaging in influencing public and regulatory policy, should do so in a manner that is responsible and transparent

1. a. Number of affiliations with trade and industry chambers/ associations. 13

  • b. List the top 10 trade and industry chambers/ associations (determined based on the total members of such body) the entity is a member of/ affiliated to.
2. S. No.
Name of the trade and industry chambers/ associations
Reach of trade and industry chambers/
associations (State/National)
1
Indian DrugManufacturers Association (IDMA)
National
2
Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, industry& Agriculture (MACCIA)
State
3
Indo-German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC)
National / International
4
Small and Medium Business Development Chamber of India (SME)
National
5
Federation of Pharma Entrepreneurs India (FOPE)
National
6
Indian Merchant Chambers (IMC)
National
7
BombayChamber of Commerce & Industry
National
8
The Compound Feed Manufacturers Association (CLFMA)
National
9
Solvent Extractors Association (SEA)
National
10
Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO)
National
11
Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil)
National
12
Chemicals and Allied Export Promotion Council (CAPEXIL)
National
13
Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development
Authority(APEDA)
National
Provide details of corrective action taken or underway on any issues related to anti- competitive conduct by the entity, based
on adverse orders from regulatory authorities. –Not Applicable
S. No. Name of the trade and industry chambers/ associations Name of the trade and industry chambers/ associations Reach of trade and industry chambers/
associations (State/National)
Reach of trade and industry chambers/
associations (State/National)
1 Indian DrugManufacturers Association (IDMA) National
2 Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, industry& Agriculture (MACCIA) State
3 Indo-German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC) National / International
4 Small and Medium Business Development Chamber of India (SME) National
5 Federation of Pharma Entrepreneurs India (FOPE) National
6 Indian Merchant Chambers (IMC) National
7 BombayChamber of Commerce & Industry National
8 The Compound Feed Manufacturers Association (CLFMA) National
9 Solvent Extractors Association (SEA) National
10 Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) National
11 Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) National
12 Chemicals and Allied Export Promotion Council (CAPEXIL) National
13 Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development
Authority(APEDA)
National
Name of authority Brief of the case Corrective action taken
Nil

100 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

PRINCIPLE 8 Businesses should promote inclusive growth and equitable development

1. Details of Social Impact Assessments (SIA) of projects undertaken by the entity based on applicable laws, in the current financial year. – Not Applicable.

Name and brief
details of project
SIA Notifcation
No.
Date of
notifcation
Whether conducted by
independent external
agency (Yes /No)
Results communicated
in public domain (Yes
/ No)
Relevant Web link
NIL

2. Provide information on project(s) for which ongoing Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) is being undertaken by your entity, in the following format: Not Applicable

S. No. Name of Project for
which R&R is ongoing
State District No. of Project Afected
Families (PAFs)
% of PAFs
covered by R&R
Amounts paid to PAFs
in the FY (In INR)
NIL

3. Describe the mechanisms to receive and redress grievances of the community.

The Company has a process to receive and redress concerns/grievances received from the community. As a part of CSR Initiative, the Company interacts with the community on a regular basis.

4. Percentage of input material (inputs to total inputs by value) sourced from suppliers:

Directlysourced from MSMEs/ smallproducers
Directlyfrom within India
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
55%
14%
55%
14%

5. Job creation in smaller towns – Disclose wages paid to persons employed (including employees or workers employed on a permanent or non-permanent / on contract basis) in the following locations, as % of total wage cost

Location
Rural
Semi-urban
Urban
Metropolitan
FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23
-
46%
-
54%
-
47%
-
53%

(Place to be categorized as per RBI Classification System - rural / semi-urban / urban / metropolitan)

PRINCIPLE 9 Businesses should engage with and provide value to their consumers in a responsible manner 1. Describe the mechanisms in place to receive and respond to consumer complaints and feedback.

Fermenta endeavours to identify and act upon any consumer complaints with urgency. Our customers can reach out to their point of contacts at Fermenta who work internally to resolve the same at earliest. Fermenta has standard operating procedures in place for responding to customer complaints.

2. Turnover of products and/ services as a percentage of turnover from all products/service that carry information about:

As apercentage to total turnover
Environmental and socialparameters relevant to theproduct 100%
Safe and responsible usage 100%
Recyclingand/or safe disposal 100%

Annual Report 2023-24 | 101

3. Number of consumer complaints in respect of the following:

Dataprivacy
Advertising
Cyber-security
Deliveryof essential services
Restrictive Trade Practices
Unfair Trade Practices
Other
FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 FY 2023-24 FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23 FY 2022-23
Received
during
the year
Pending
resolution
at end of
year
Remarks Received
during
the year
Pending
resolution
at end of
year
Remarks
Nil Nil

4. Details of instances of product recalls on account of safety issues:

Number Reason for recall
Voluntaryrecalls 0 N.A.
Forced recalls 0 N.A.

5. Does the entity have a framework/ policy on cyber security and risks related to data privacy? (Yes/No) If available, provide a web-link of the policy.

Company’s policies related to cyber security which inter alia cover risks related to data privacy are available on the Company’s intranet portal.

6. Provide details of any corrective actions taken or underway on issues relating to advertising, and delivery of essential services; cyber security and data privacy of customers; re-occurrence of instances of product recalls; penalty / action taken by regulatory authorities on safety of products / services. N.A.

7. Provide the following information relating to data breaches:

  • a. Number of instances of data breaches. Nil

  • b. Percentage of data breaches involving personally identifiable information of customers. N.A.

  • c. Impact, if any, of the data breaches. N.A.

Pradeep M. Chandan Chairman (DIN: 0200067) May 27, 2024, Thane

Registered Office:

A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) – 400 610 Maharashtra, India.

102 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Independent Auditor’s Report

To The Members of

Fermenta Biotech Limited

Report on the Audit of the Standalone Financial Statements

Opinion

We have audited the accompanying standalone financial statements of Fermenta Biotech Limited (“the Company”), which comprise the Balance sheet as at March 31 2024, the Statement of Profit and Loss, including the statement of Other Comprehensive Income, the Cash Flow Statement and the Statement of Changes in Equity for the year then ended, and notes to the standalone financial statements, including a summary of material accounting policies and other explanatory information.

In our opinion and to the best of our information and according to the explanations given to us, the aforesaid standalone financial statements give the information required by the Companies Act, 2013, as amended (“the Act”) in the manner so required and give a true and fair view in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in India, of the state of affairs of the Company as at March 31, 2024, its loss including other comprehensive income, its cash flows and the changes in equity for the year ended on that date.

Basis for Opinion

We conducted our audit of the standalone financial statements in accordance with the Standards on Auditing (SAs), as specified under section 143(10) of the Act. Our responsibilities under those Standards are further described in the ‘Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Standalone Financial Statements’ section of our report. We are independent of the Company in accordance with

the ‘Code of Ethics’ issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India together with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements under the provisions of the Act and the Rules thereunder, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements and the Code of Ethics. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion on the standalone financial statements.

Key Audit Matters

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the standalone financial statements for the financial year ended March 31, 2024. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the standalone financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. For each matter below, our description of how our audit addressed the matter is provided in that context.

We have determined the matters described below to be the key audit matters to be communicated in our report. We have fulfilled the responsibilities described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the standalone financial statements section of our report, including in relation to these matters. Accordingly, our audit included the performance of procedures designed to respond to our assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the standalone financial statements. The results of our audit procedures, including the procedures performed to address the matters below, provide the basis for our audit opinion on the accompanying standalone financial statements.

Key audit matters How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Recoverability of investments in and loans given and receivables from certain subsidiaries (as described in Note 69 of the standalone financial statements)

The Company has investments in certain subsidiaries having a carrying value of H320.06 lakh (net of impairment loss of H1,879.86 lakh). Further, the Company has also given loans and has receivables outstanding from these subsidiaries amounting to H3,027.41 lakh (net of provision for expected credit loss of H1,872.81 lakh)

These subsidiaries have either been incurring losses or further investments made by them in the step-down subsidiaries have been incurring losses due to unfavorable market conditions and other indicators. Accordingly, these have been considered for assessment of impairment and determination of the expected credit loss.

Our audit procedures included the following:

  • We obtained management’s assessment for impairment for recoverability of these investments and financial assets.

  • Evaluated the design and implementation and tested the operating effectiveness of key internal financial controls related to the Company’s process relating to impairment assessment and determination of expected credit loss.

  • Assessed impairment/ expected credit loss model used by the management and the evaluated the assumptions used around the key drivers (cash flow forecasts, discount rates, expected growth rates,

Annual Report 2023-24 | 103

Key audit matters

Assessment of the recoverable amount of these balances has been identified as a key audit matter due to:

  • Significance of the carrying amount of these balances.

  • Significant estimates relating to the estimated future cash flows, associated discount rates and growth rates based on management’s view of future business prospects, to the extent applicable.

  • Changes to any of these assumptions could lead to material changes in the estimated recoverable amount impacting potential impairment/ expected credit loss.

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

  • forecasted margins and terminal growth rates) based on our knowledge of the subsidiaries business and Industry, as applicable. Compared the historical accuracy by comparing past forecasts to actual results achieved.

  • � Involved internal valuation expert to assist in evaluating the valuation methodology and assumptions around the key drivers of the cash flow forecasts including discount rates, expected growth rates and terminal growth rates used.

  • � Assessed the recoverable value headroom by performing sensitivity testing of key assumptions used.

  • � Tested the arithmetical accuracy of the computation of recoverable amounts.

  • � Assessed the adequacy of disclosures made in the standalone financial statements.

Recoverability of Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) credit entitlement included under deferred tax assets

(as described in Note 48 of the standalone financial statements)

The Company has recognized deferred tax assets amounting to H4,089.03 lakhs representing Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) credit entitlement, pursuant to the provisions of Section 115JB of the Income-tax Act, 1961 and related rules.

Unused tax credits in the form of MAT credits is recognized to the extent that there is convincing evidence that sufficient taxable profits will be available in the future against which such MAT credit can be utilized.

The recoverability of such MAT credit entitlement is considered as a key audit matter as it involves significant management judgement including accounting estimates relating to profitability forecasts, availability of sufficient taxable income in the future and recoverability within the specified period of time.

Our audit procedures included the following:

  • Evaluated the Company’s accounting policies with respect to recognition of deferred taxes in accordance with Ind AS 12 “Income Taxes”.

  • � Evaluated the design and implementation and tested the operating effectiveness of key internal financial controls related to the assessment of recoverability of MAT credit entitlement.

  • � Obtained and analysed the future projections of taxable profits estimated by management and assessed the key assumptions used and the reasonableness of the future cash flow projections.

  • � Assessed the sensitivity analysis applied by the Company and evaluated if any change in the assumptions will lead to any material change utilization of the MAT credit entitlement.

  • � Assessed the adequacy of disclosures made in the standalone financial statements

Provision for Inventory obsolescence (as described in Note 15 of the standalone financial statements

As at March 31, 2024, the carrying amount of inventories amounted to H7,860.60 lakh after considering allowances for Inventory of H2,229.02 lakhs.

Inventories are carried at lower of cost and net realisable value.

The Company makes provision for inventory based on category of products, experience, age of Inventory, current trend and future expectations of forecast inventory demand.

Considering the significant management judgment and estimates involved, provision for inventory obsolescence has been considered as a key audit matter.

Our audit procedures included the following:

  • Obtained an understanding of management’s process to identify slowmoving, obsolete and other non-saleable inventory, and process of consequent measurement of required provision for obsolescence.

  • � Evaluated the design, implementation and tested the operating effectiveness of key controls that the Company has in relation to aforesaid process.

  • For provisions made in respect of slow moving and non-saleable Inventory, discussed with management the triggers considered for such identification and evaluated the same in view of our understanding of the business and industry conditions. Assessed the management’s estimates regarding the expected timing by which the balance inventory of aforesaid products would be sold basis past trends and market conditions.

  • Reperformed computations to test the accuracy and completeness of such provision estimates.

  • Assessed the adequacy of disclosures made in the standalone financial statements.

104 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

We have determined that there are no other key audit matters to communicate in our report.

Other Information

The Company’s Board of Directors is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual report, but does not include the standalone financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The Annual report is expected to be made available to us after the date of this auditor's report.

Our opinion on the standalone financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the standalone financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information identified above when it becomes available and, in doing so, consider whether such other information is materially inconsistent with the standalone financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

Responsibilities of Management for the Standalone Financial Statements

The Company’s Board of Directors is responsible for the matters stated in section 134(5) of the Act with respect to the preparation of these standalone financial statements that give a true and fair view of the financial position, financial performance including other comprehensive income, cash flows and changes in equity of the Company in accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in India, including the Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) specified under section 133 of the Act read with the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015, as amended. This responsibility also includes maintenance of adequate accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Act for safeguarding of the assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting frauds and other irregularities; selection and application of appropriate accounting policies; making judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and the design, implementation and maintenance of adequate internal financial controls, that were operating effectively for ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the accounting records, relevant to the preparation and presentation of the [standalone] financial statements that give a true and fair view and are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the standalone financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.

Those Board of Directors are also responsible for overseeing the Company’s financial reporting process.

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Standalone Financial Statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the standalone financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with SAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these standalone financial statements.

As part of an audit in accordance with SAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:

  • Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the standalone financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

  • Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances. Under section 143(3)(i) of the Act, we are also responsible for expressing our opinion on whether the Company has adequate internal financial controls with reference to financial statements in place and the operating effectiveness of such controls.

  • Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management.

  • Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Company to cease to continue as a going concern.

  • Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the standalone financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the standalone financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 105

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable, related safeguards.

From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the audit of the standalone financial statements for the financial year ended March 31, 2024 and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor’s report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a matter should not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication.

Other Matter

In connection with the merger of erstwhile Holding Company and an erstwhile wholly owned subsidiary as more fully described in note 70 to the standalone financial statements (referred to as “merged entities”), we did not audit the comparative financial statements of such merged entities as considered in these standalone financial Statement for the year ended March 31, 2023, whose financial statements reflects before inter-company eliminations total revenues of H296.44 lakhs, total net profit after tax of H241.38 lakhs and total comprehensive income H241.38 lakhs for the year ended March 31,2023 respectively.

These financial statements have been audited by the independent auditor of such merged entities and auditor’s reports have been furnished to us by the Management. Our opinion on the standalone financial statements, in so far as it relates to the amounts and disclosures included in respect of the merged entities, is based solely on the reports of independent auditor of such companies as adjusted for the accounting effects of the Scheme recorded by the Company (in particular, the accounting effects of IND AS 103- Business Combinations and other consequential adjustments which has been audited by us.

Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter.

Report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements

  1. As required by the Companies (Auditor’s Report) Order, 2020 (“the Order”), issued by the Central Government of India in terms of sub-section (11) of section 143 of the Act, we give in the “Annexure 1” a statement on the matters specified in paragraphs 3 and 4 of the Order.

  2. As required by Section 143(3) of the Act, we report, to the extent applicable, that:

  3. (a) We have sought and obtained all the information and explanations which to the best of our knowledge and belief were necessary for the purposes of our audit;

  4. (b) In our opinion, proper books of account as required by law have been kept by the Company so far as it appears from our examination of those books, except for the matters stated in the paragraph (i) (vi) below on reporting under Rule 11(g);

  5. (c) The Balance Sheet, the Statement of Profit and Loss including the Statement of Other Comprehensive Income, the Cash Flow Statement and Statement of Changes in Equity dealt with by this Report are in agreement with the books of account;

  6. (d) In our opinion, the aforesaid standalone financial statements comply with the Accounting Standards specified under Section 133 of the Act, read with Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015, as amended;

  7. (e) On the basis of the written representations received from the directors as on March 31, 2024 taken on record by the Board of Directors, none of the directors is disqualified as on March 31, 2024 from being appointed as a director in terms of Section 164 (2) of the Act;

  8. (f) With respect to the adequacy of the internal financial controls with reference to these standalone financial statements and the operating effectiveness of such controls, refer to our separate Report in “Annexure 2” to this report;

  9. (g) In our opinion, the managerial remuneration for the year ended March 31, 2024 has been paid / provided by the Company to its directors in accordance with the provisions of section 197 read with Schedule V to the Act;

  10. (h) The modification relating to the maintenance of accounts and other matters connected therewith are as stated in the paragraph (b) above on reporting under Section 143(3)(b) and paragraph (i)(vi) below on reporting under Rule 11(g);

  11. (i) With respect to the other matters to be included in the Auditor’s Report in accordance with Rule 11 of the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014, as amended in our opinion and to the best of our information and according to the explanations given to us:

  12. i. The Company has disclosed the impact of pending litigations on its financial position in its standalone financial statements – Refer Note 43 to the standalone financial statements;

  13. ii. The Company did not have any long-term contracts including derivative contracts for which there were any material foreseeable losses;

106 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

  • iii. There has been no delay in transferring amounts, required to be transferred, to the Investor Education and Protection Fund by the Company

  • iv. a) The management has represented that, to the best of its knowledge and belief, no funds have been advanced or loaned or invested (either from borrowed funds or share premium or any other sources or kind of funds) by the Company to or in any other persons or entities, including foreign entities (“Intermediaries”), with the understanding, whether recorded in writing or otherwise, that the Intermediary shall, whether, directly or indirectly lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Company (“Ultimate Beneficiaries”) or provide any guarantee, security or the like on behalf of the Ultimate Beneficiaries;

  • b) The management has represented that, to the best of its knowledge and belief, no funds have been received by the Company from any persons or entities, including foreign entities (“Funding Parties”), with the understanding, whether recorded in writing or otherwise, that the Company shall, whether, directly or indirectly, lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Funding Party (“Ultimate Beneficiaries”) or provide any guarantee, security or the like on behalf of the Ultimate Beneficiaries; and

  • c) Based on such audit procedures performed that have been considered reasonable and appropriate in the circumstances, nothing has come to our notice that has caused us to believe that the representations under sub-clause (a) and (b) contain any material misstatement.

  • v. The final dividend paid by the Company during the year in respect of the same declared for the previous year is in accordance with section 123 of the Act to the extent it applies to payment of dividend. As stated in note 58 to the standalone financial statements, the Board of Directors of the Company has proposed final dividend for the year which is subject to the approval of the members at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. The dividend declared is in accordance with section 123 of the Act to the extent it applies to declaration of dividend.

  • vi. Based on our examination which included test checks, the Company has used accounting software for maintaining its books of account which has a feature of recording audit trail (edit log) facility and the same has operated throughout the year for all relevant transactions recorded in the software except that, audit trail feature is not enabled for direct changes to data when using certain privileged access rights, as described in note 67 to the financial statements. Further, during the course of our audit we did not come across any instance of audit trail feature being tampered with in respect of the accounting software where audit trail has been enabled

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Membership Number: 136454 UDIN: 24136454BKFOEZ6086

Place of Signature: Thane Date: May 27, 2024

Annual Report 2023-24 | 107

Annexure 1 referred to in paragraph 1 under the heading “Report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements” of our report of even date

  • (i) (a) (A) The Company has maintained proper records showing full particulars, including quantitative details and situation of Property, Plant and Equipment.

    • (B) The Company has maintained proper records showing full particulars of intangibles assets.
  • (b) All Property, Plant and Equipment have not been physically verified by the management during the year but there is a regular programme of verification which, in our opinion, is reasonable having regard to the size of the Company and the nature of its assets. No material discrepancies were noticed on such verification.

  • (c) The title deeds of immovable properties (other than properties where the Company is the lessee, and the lease agreements are duly executed in favor of the lessee) disclosed in note 6 to the standalone financial statements included in property, plant and equipment are held in the name of the Company except immovable properties as indicated in the below mentioned cases:

(H in Lakh)

(Hin Lakh)
Description of
Property
Gross
carrying
value
Held in name of Whether
promoter, director
or their relative or
employee
Period held
– indicate
range, where
appropriate
Reason for not being
held in the name of
Company
Freehold land
located at Village
Takwe (Budruk)
Taluka – Maval,
District Pune
3.44 The land is held in trust
in the name of Mr.
Krishna Datla (Executive
Vice Chairman) and
Ms. Rajeshwari Datla
(Director/ relative of
Executive Vice Chairman)
Yes Various dates
from 27th
December 1992
to 4thJuly 1994
The plot of land is an
agricultural land lying
in the industrial zone
and as explained to us,
required to register in
individual names.
  • (d) The Company has not revalued its Property, Plant and Equipment (including Right of use assets) or intangible assets during the year ended March 31, 2024.

  • (e) There are no proceedings initiated or are pending against the Company for holding any benami property under the Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988 and rules made thereunder.

  • (ii) (a) The inventory has been physically verified by the management during the year except for inventories lying with third parties. In our opinion, the frequency of verification by the management is reasonable and the coverage and procedure for such verification is appropriate. Inventories lying with third parties have been confirmed by them as at March 31, 2024 and no discrepancies were noticed in respect of such confirmations. No discrepancies of 10% or more in aggregate for each class of inventory were noticed in respect of such physical verification.

  • (b) As disclosed in note 28 to the financial statements, the Company has been sanctioned working capital limits in excess of H five crores in aggregate from banks and financial institutions during the year on the basis of security of current assets of the Company. Based on the records examined by us in the normal course of audit of the financial statements, the quarterly returns/statements filed by the Company with such banks and financial institutions are in agreement with the books of accounts of the Company.

  • (iii) (a) During the year the Company has provided loans, advances in the nature of loans, stood guarantee and provided security to companies as follows:

(H in Lakh)

companies as follows: (Hin Lakh)
Particulars Guarantees Security Loans Advances/Deposits
in nature of loans
Aggregate amountgranted/provided duringtheyear
Subsidiaries - - - -
Associate - - - -
Others - - 375.98 -

108 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

(H in Lakh)

(Hin Lakh)
Particulars Guarantees Security Loans Advances/Deposits
in nature of loans
Balance outstandingas at balance sheet date in respect of above cases
Subsidiaries - - 708.90 464.00*
Associate - - 37.00* -
Others - - 495.98 907.14*
  • The amounts reported are at gross amounts, without considering provisions made.

  • (b) During the year the investments made, guarantees provided, security given and the terms and conditions of the grant of all loans and advances in the nature of loans, investments and guarantees to companies are not prejudicial to the Company’s interest.

  • (c) In respect of certain loans or advance in the nature of loan granted to companies or any other parties, the schedule of repayment of principal and payment of interest has not been stipulated in the agreement. Hence, we are unable to make a specific comment on the regularity of repayment of principal and payment of interest in respect of such loans and advances.

  • (d) The following amounts are overdue for more than ninety days from companies or any other parties to whom loan has been granted, and reasonable steps have been taken by the Company for recovery of the overdue amount of principal and interest.

Number of Cases Principal Amount Overdue
(Amt in lakh)
Interest Overdue
(Amt in lakh)
Total Overdue
(Amt in lakh)
2 100 45.01 145.01
  • (e) There were no loans or advance in the nature of loan granted to companies which was fallen due during the year, that have been renewed or extended or fresh loans granted to settle the over-dues of existing loans given to the same parties

  • (f) As disclosed in note 11 to the financial statements, the Company has granted loans or advances in the nature of loans, either repayable on demand or without specifying any terms or period of repayment to companies or any other parties. Of these following are the details of the aggregate amount of loans or advances in the nature of loans granted to promoters or related parties as defined in clause (76) of section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013:

As disclosed in note 11 to the fnancial statements, the Company has granted loans or advances in the nature of loans, either
repayable on demand or without specifying any terms or period of repayment to companies or any other parties. Of these following
are the details of the aggregate amount of loans or advances in the nature of loans granted to promoters or related parties as
defned in clause (76) of section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013:
As disclosed in note 11 to the fnancial statements, the Company has granted loans or advances in the nature of loans, either
repayable on demand or without specifying any terms or period of repayment to companies or any other parties. Of these following
are the details of the aggregate amount of loans or advances in the nature of loans granted to promoters or related parties as
defned in clause (76) of section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013:
As disclosed in note 11 to the fnancial statements, the Company has granted loans or advances in the nature of loans, either
repayable on demand or without specifying any terms or period of repayment to companies or any other parties. Of these following
are the details of the aggregate amount of loans or advances in the nature of loans granted to promoters or related parties as
defned in clause (76) of section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013:
As disclosed in note 11 to the fnancial statements, the Company has granted loans or advances in the nature of loans, either
repayable on demand or without specifying any terms or period of repayment to companies or any other parties. Of these following
are the details of the aggregate amount of loans or advances in the nature of loans granted to promoters or related parties as
defned in clause (76) of section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013:
(Hin lakh)
All Parties Promoters Related Parties
Aggregate amount of loans/ advances in nature of loans
- Repayable on demand
1,408.36* - 501.22*
Percentage of loans/ advances in nature of loans to the
total loans
53.89% - 19.18%

*The amounts reported are at gross amounts, without considering provisions made.

  • (iv) There are no loans, guarantees, and security in respect of which provisions of sections 185 of the Companies Act, 2013 are applicable and hence not commented upon. Loans, investments, guarantees and security in respect of which provisions of sections 186 of the Companies Act, 2013 (‘the Act’) are applicable have been complied with by the Company.

  • (v) The Company has neither accepted any deposits from the public nor accepted any amounts which are deemed to be deposits within the meaning of sections 73 to 76 of the Companies Act and the rules made thereunder, to the extent applicable. Accordingly, the requirement to report on clause 3(v) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (vi) We have broadly reviewed the books of account maintained by the Company pursuant to the rules made by the Central Government for the maintenance of cost records under section 148(1) of the Act, related to the manufacture of its products, and are of the opinion that prima facie, the specified accounts and records have been made and maintained. We have not, however, made a detailed examination of the same.

  • (vii) (a) Undisputed statutory dues including goods and services tax, provident fund, employees’ state insurance, income-tax, sales-tax, service tax, duty of custom, duty of excise, value added tax, cess and other statutory dues have generally been regularly deposited with the appropriate authorities though there has been a slight delay in a few cases.

According to the information and explanations given to us and based on audit procedures performed by us, no undisputed amounts payable in respect of these statutory dues were outstanding, at the year end, for a period of more than six months from the date they became payable.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 109

  • (b) The dues of goods and services tax, provident fund, employees’ state insurance, income-tax, sales-tax, service tax, duty of custom, duty of excise, value added tax, cess, and other statutory dues have not been deposited on account of any dispute, are as follows:

(H in lakh)

(Hin lakh)
Name of statute Nature of dues **Amount *** Period Forum where the dispute ispending
The Finance Act 1994 Service Tax 18.75 2000-2001 Sales Tax Appellate Tribunal
The Gujarat Sales Tax Act Sales Tax 4.63 1992-1994 High Court, Bombay

*Excluding Interest

  • (viii) The Company has not surrendered or disclosed any transaction, previously unrecorded in the books of account, in the tax assessments under the Income Tax Act, 1961 as income during the year. Accordingly, the requirement to report on clause 3(viii) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (ix) (a) The Company has not defaulted in repayment of loans or other borrowings or in the payment of interest thereon to any lender.

  • (b) The Company has not been declared wilful defaulter by any bank or financial institution or government or any government authority.

  • (c) Term loans were applied for the purpose for which the loans were obtained.

  • (d) On an overall examination of the standalone financial statements of the Company, no funds raised on shortterm basis have been used for long-term purposes by the Company.

  • (e) On an overall examination of the standalone financial statements of the Company, the Company has not taken any funds from any entity or person on account of or to meet the obligations of its subsidiaries.

  • (f) The Company has not raised loans during the year on the pledge of securities held in its subsidiaries. Hence, the requirement to report on clause (ix)(f) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (x) (a) The Company has not raised any money during the year by way of initial public offer / further public offer (including debt instruments) hence, the requirement to report on clause 3(x)(a) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (b) The Company has not made any preferential allotment or private placement of shares /fully or partially or optionally convertible debentures during the year under audit and hence, the requirement to report on clause 3(x)(b) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (xi) (a) No fraud by the Company or no fraud on the Company has been noticed or reported during the year.

  • (b) During the year, no report under sub-section (12) of section 143 of the Act has been filed by cost auditor/ secretarial auditor or by us in Form ADT – 4 as prescribed under Rule 13 of Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014 with the Central Government.

  • (c) As represented to us by the management, there are no whistle blower complaints received by the Company during the year.

  • (xii) The Company is not a nidhi company as per the provisions of the Act. Therefore, the requirement to report on clause 3(xii)(a), (b) and (c) of the Order are not applicable to the Company.

  • (xiii) Transactions with the related parties are in compliance with sections 177 and 188 of the Act where applicable and the details have been disclosed in the notes to the standalone financial statements, as required by the applicable accounting standards.

  • (xiv) (a) The Company has an internal audit system commensurate with the size and nature of its business.

  • (b) The internal audit reports of the Company issued till the date of the audit report, for the period under audit have been considered by us.

  • (xv) The Company has not entered into any non-cash transactions with its directors or persons connected with its directors and hence requirement to report on clause 3(xv) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (xvi) (a) The provisions of section 45-IA of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 (2 of 1934) are not applicable to the Company. Accordingly, the requirement to report on clause (xvi)(a) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (b) The Company is not engaged in any Non-Banking Financial or Housing Finance activities. Accordingly, the requirement to report on clause (xvi)(b) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (c) The Company is not a Core Investment Company as defined in the regulations made by Reserve Bank of India. Accordingly, the requirement to report on clause 3(xvi) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (d) There is no Core Investment Company as a part of the Group, hence, the requirement to report on clause 3(xvi) (d) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

  • (xvii) The Company has not incurred cash losses in the current financial year and in the immediately preceding financial year respectively.

  • (xviii) There has been no resignation of the statutory auditors during the year and accordingly requirement to report on Clause 3(xviii) of the Order is not applicable to the Company.

110 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

  • (xix) On the basis of the financial ratios disclosed in note 61 to the standalone financial statements, ageing and expected dates of realization of financial assets and payment of financial liabilities, other information accompanying the standalone financial statements, our knowledge of the Board of Directors and management plans and based on our examination of the evidence supporting the assumptions, nothing has come to our attention, which causes us to believe that any material uncertainty exists as on the date of the audit report that Company is not capable of meeting its liabilities existing at the date of balance sheet as and when they fall due within a period of one year from the balance sheet date. We, however, state that this is not an assurance as to the future viability of the Company. We further state that our reporting is based on the facts up to the date of the audit report and we neither give any guarantee nor any assurance that all liabilities falling due within a period of one year from the balance sheet date, will get discharged by the Company as and when they fall due.

  • (xx) (a) In respect of other than ongoing projects, there are no unspent amounts that are required to be transferred to a fund specified in Schedule VII of the Act, in compliance with second proviso to sub section 5 of section 135 of

the Act. This matter has been disclosed in note 51 to the standalone financial statements.

  • (b) There are no unspent amounts in respect of ongoing projects, that are required to be transferred to a special account in compliance of provision of sub section (6) of section 135 of Companies Act. This matter has been disclosed in note 51 to the financial statements.

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Place of Signature: Thane Membership Number: 136454 Date: May 27, 2024 UDIN: 24136454BKFOEZ6086

Annual Report 2023-24 | 111

Annexure 2 to the Independent Auditor’s Report of even date on the standalone financial statements of Fermenta Biotech Limited

Report on the Internal Financial Controls under Clause (i) of Sub-section 3 of Section 143 of the Companies Act, 2013 (“the Act”)

We have audited the internal financial controls with reference to standalone financial statements of Fermenta Biotech Limited (“the Company”) as of March 31, 2024, in conjunction with our audit of the standalone financial statements of the Company for the year ended on that date.

Management’s Responsibility for Internal Financial Controls

The Company’s Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining internal financial controls based on on the internal control over financial reporting criteria established by the Company considering the essential components of internal control stated in the Guidance Note on Audit of Internal Financial Controls Over Financial Reporting issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (“ICAI”). These responsibilities include the design, implementation and maintenance of adequate internal financial controls that were operating effectively for ensuring the orderly and efficient conduct of its business, including adherence to the Company’s policies, the safeguarding of its assets, the prevention and detection of frauds and errors, the accuracy and completeness of the accounting records, and the timely preparation of reliable financial information, as required under the Companies Act, 2013.

Auditor’s Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal financial controls with reference to these standalone financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with the Guidance Note on Audit of Internal Financial Controls Over Financial Reporting (the “Guidance Note”) and the Standards on Auditing, as specified under section 143(10) of the Act, to the extent applicable to an audit of internal financial controls, both issued by ICAI. Those Standards and the Guidance Note require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether adequate

internal financial controls with reference to these standalone financial statements was established and maintained and if such controls operated effectively in all material respects.

Our audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the adequacy of the internal financial controls with reference to these standalone financial statements and their operating effectiveness. Our audit of internal financial controls with reference to standalone financial statements included obtaining an understanding of internal financial controls with reference to these standalone financial statements, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion on the Company’s internal financial controls with reference to these standalone financial statements.

Meaning of Internal Financial Controls With Reference to these Standalone Financial Statements

A company's internal financial controls with reference to standalone financial statements is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal financial controls with reference to standalone financial statements includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide

112 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Inherent Limitations of Internal Financial Controls With Reference to Standalone Financial Statements

Because of the inherent limitations of internal financial controls with reference to standalone financial statements, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected. Also, projections of any evaluation of the internal financial controls with reference to standalone financial statements to future periods are subject to the risk that the internal financial control with reference to standalone financial statements may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Opinion

In our opinion, the Company has, in all material respects, adequate internal financial controls with reference to standalone financial statements and such internal financial controls with reference

to standalone financial statements were operating effectively as at March 31, 2024, based on the internal control over financial reporting criteria established by the Company considering the essential components of internal control stated in the Guidance Note issued by the ICAI.

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Membership Number: 136454 UDIN: 24136454BKFOEZ6086

Place of Signature: Thane Date: May 27, 2024

Annual Report 2023-24 | 113

Standalone Balance Sheet as at March 31, 2024

Particulars
Notes
ASSETS
Non-current assets
(a)
Property, plant and equipment
3
(b)
Capital work-in-progress
4
(c)
Right-of-use assets
5
(d)
Investmentproperty
6
(e)
Goodwill
6A
(f)
Other Intangible assets
7
(g)
Intangible assets under development
8
(h)
Investments
i)
Investments in subsidiaries
9A
ii)
Investments in an associate
9B
(i)
Financial assets
(i)
Investments
9C
(ii)
Share application money
10
(iii)Trade receivables
16
(iv)Loans
11
(v)
Other fnancial assets
12
(j)
Deferred tax assets(net)
48C
(k)
Non-current tax assets(net)
13
(l)
Other non-current assets
14
Total non-current assets
Current assets
(a)
Inventories
15
(b)
Financial assets
(i)
Trade receivables
16
(ii)
Cash and cash equivalents
17
(iii)Bank balances other than(ii)above
18
(iv)Investments
(v)
Loans
19
(vi)Other fnancial assets
20
(c)
Other current assets
21
(d)
Contract Assets
Total current assets
TOTAL ASSETS
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Equity
(a)
Equityshare capital
22
(b)
Other equity
23
Total equity
Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
(a)
Financial liabilities
(i)Borrowings
24
(ii)Lease liabilities
46
(iii)Other fnancial liabilities
25
(b)
Provisions
26
(c)
Other non-current liabilities
27
Total non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
(a)
Financial liabilities
(i)
Borrowings
28
(ii)
Lease liabilities
46
(iii)Tradepayables
(A)Total outstandingdues of micro and small enterprises
29 & 52
(B)Total outstandingdues of creditors other than micro and small enterprises
29
(iv)Other fnancial liabilities
30
(b)
Other current liabilities
31
(c)
Provisions
32
(d)
Current tax liabilities(net)
33
(e)
Contract Liability
Total current liabilities
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
(Hin Lakhs )
March 31, 2023 #
20,484.93
4,190.25
1,171.45
2,870.85
411.65
742.91
311.96
1,220.06
-
36.61
-
1,796.01
715.83
2,104.25
3,329.75
1,030.96
636.37
41,053.84
10,974.83
6,741.20
3,207.53
2,303.75
278.07
102.50
85.17
1,316.79
321.98
25,331.82
66,385.66
1,442.87
32,162.83
33,605.70
8,353.96
199.11
108.38
462.46
2,394.40
11,518.31
13,325.62
68.67
280.47
4,910.38
908.91
1,667.40
58.14
32.53
9.53
21,261.65
66,385.66
Particulars March 31, 2024
ASSETS
Non-current assets
(a)
Property, plant and equipment
23,642.35
(b)
Capital work-in-progress
161.57
(c)
Right-of-use assets
1,543.35
(d)
Investmentproperty
540.67
(e)
Goodwill
411.65
(f)
Other Intangible assets
542.28
(g)
Intangible assets under development
-
(h)
Investments
i)
Investments in subsidiaries
320.06
ii)
Investments in an associate
-
(i)
Financial assets
(i)
Investments
43.36
(ii)
Share application money
-
(iii)Trade receivables 1,171.69
(iv)Loans 738.44
(v)
Other fnancial assets
399.31
(j)
Deferred tax assets(net)
2,199.91
(k)
Non-current tax assets(net)
815.00
(l)
Other non-current assets
105.43
Total non-current assets 32,635.07
Current assets
(a)
Inventories
7,860.60
(b)
Financial assets
(i)
Trade receivables
7,713.12
(ii)
Cash and cash equivalents
1,863.43
(iii)Bank balances other than(ii)above 3,800.52
(iv)Investments -
(v)
Loans
466.43
(vi)Other fnancial assets 132.93
(c)
Other current assets
1,670.75
(d)
Contract Assets
314.99
Total current assets 23,822.77
TOTAL ASSETS 56,457.84
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Equity
(a)
Equityshare capital
1,443.71
(b)
Other equity
29,978.90
Total equity 31,422.61
Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
(a)
Financial liabilities
(i)Borrowings 4,259.23
(ii)Lease liabilities 553.88
(iii)Other fnancial liabilities 353.84
(b)
Provisions
535.46
(c)
Other non-current liabilities
3,243.93
Total non-current liabilities 8,946.34
Current liabilities
(a)
Financial liabilities
(i)
Borrowings
8,973.49
(ii)
Lease liabilities
95.81
(iii)Tradepayables
(A)Total outstandingdues of micro and small enterprises 237.63
(B)Total outstandingdues of creditors other than micro and small enterprises 5,065.49
(iv)Other fnancial liabilities 763.44
(b)
Other current liabilities
829.46
(c)
Provisions
59.43
(d)
Current tax liabilities(net)
34.13
(e)
Contract Liability
30.01
Total current liabilities 16,088.89
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 56,457.84

See accompanying notes to the Standalone financial statements # Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70) As per our report of even date

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Membership No. 136454

Thane, May 27, 2024

1-74

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

Krishna Datla

Prashant Nagre

Executive Vice-Chairman Managing Director DIN 00003247 DIN 09165447

Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Officer Thane, May 27, 2024

Srikant N. Sharma Company Secretary

114 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Standalone Statement of Profit and Loss for the year ended March 31, 2024

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars Note
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
69
48
45
45
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
32,891.45
846.21
33,737.66
10,048.56
872.76
1,728.52
5,380.86
2,080.20
2,448.50
11,017.06
33,576.46
161.20
(5,958.92)
(5,797.72)
18.15
(115.57)
0.02
(97.40)
(5,700.32)
11.16
-
6.10
17.26
(5,683.06)
0.90
0.90
(19.75)
(19.75)
INCOME
Revenue from operations 30,709.04
Other income 815.42
Total income 31,524.46
EXPENSES
Cost of materials consumed 8,378.52
Purchases of stock-in-trade 778.38
Changes in inventories of fnished goods,stock-in-trade and work-in-
progress
1,386.28
Employee benefts expense 5,393.25
Finance costs 1,705.21
Depreciation and amortisation expense 2,369.55
Other expenses 11,074.03
Total expenses 31,085.22
Proft before Exceptional Items and tax 439.24
Exceptional Items (900.00)
Loss before Tax (460.76)
Tax expense /(income)
Current tax 168.02
Adjusment of Tax related to earlieryears 1,245.55
Deferred tax charge -
Total tax expense /(income) 1,413.57
Loss for theyear (1,874.33)
Other comprehensive income
Items that will not be reclassifed toproft or loss
(a) (i)
Remeasurements of defned beneftplan
12.28
(ii)Income tax relatingto remeasurements of defned beneftplan -
(b)Items that will be reclassifed toproft or Loss(net of tax)
Net fair value change in investment in equity instruments through
other comprehensive income
6.75
Total other comprehensive income for theyear(a+b) 19.03
Total comprehensive loss for theyear (1,855.30)
Earnings per equity share ofH5 each before exceptional items
Basic(inH) (3.37)
Diluted(inH) (3.37)
Earnings per equity share ofH5 each after exceptional items
Basic(inH) (6.49)
Diluted(inH) (6.49)

See accompanying notes to the Standalone financial statements

1-74

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

As per our report of even date

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Membership No. 136454

Krishna Datla Executive Vice-Chairman DIN 00003247

Prashant Nagre Managing Director DIN 09165447

Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Officer Thane, May 27, 2024

Srikant N. Sharma

Company Secretary

Thane, May 27, 2024

Annual Report 2023-24 | 115

Standalone Cash Flow Statement for the year ended March 31, 2024

Particulars
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Loss after Exceptional Items and before tax
Adjustments for :
Depreciation and amortisation expense
Net unrealised foreign exchange loss / (gain)
Gain on sale / write of ofproperty,plant and equipment and investmentproperty(net)
Proceeds on sale of Investment Property
Allowance for doubtful debts
Unwindingof interest on fnancial assets carried at amortised cost
Expense charged /(reversed) on Employee Stock Option
Finance costs
Interest income
Dividend income
Liabilities /provisions no longer required written back
Trade receivable and advances written of
Impairment in the value of non-current investments
Net (gain)/loss on fair value changes of derivatives measured at FVTPL
Exceptional Items
Operating proft before working capital changes
Movements in working capital:
(Increase)/Decrease in trade receivables
Decrease in inventories
Decrease/(Increase) in other assets
Increase in tradepayables
Increase / (Decrease) inprovisions
(Decrease) / Increase in other liabilities
Cashgenerated from operations
Income taxes (paid) (net of refund)
Net cashgenerated from operations (A)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Payments for purchase of property, plant and equipment, investment property, capital
work-in-progress, intangible assets and intangible assets under development
Proceeds on sale ofproperty,plant and equipment / Non Current investment
Proceeds from employee loanplaced
Interest received
Intercorporate deposits / employee loangiven
Investments in a subsidiary
Dividend received
Deposits realised/(placement) with fnancial institution (net)
Withdrawal/(placement) of fxed deposits with bank
Net cash used in investing activities (B)
March 31, 2024
(460.76)
2,369.55
364.25
(6,355.27)
10,167.88
160.64
(246.48)
19.06
1,705.21
(287.90)
(90.36)
(166.55)
24.95
-
(22.27)
900.00
8,081.94
(1,269.88)
3,114.23
144.05
619.47
86.57
(376.05)
10,400.33
101.84
10,502.17
(1,920.71)
6.54
9.02
281.44
(385.00)
-
90.36
278.07
125.35
(1,514.93)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
(460.76) (5,797.72)
2,369.55 2,448.50
364.25 (115.04)
(6,355.27) (4,741.34)
10,167.88 9,217.16
160.64 51.62
(246.48) -
19.06 (101.85)
1,705.21 2,080.20
(287.90) (239.68)
(90.36) (90.63)
(166.55) (302.91)
24.95 478.34
- 0.88
(22.27) 41.01
900.00 5,958.92
8,081.94 8,887.47
(1,269.88) 527.48
3,114.23 42.58
144.05 (136.86)
619.47 936.50
86.57 (111.12)
(376.05) 1,794.04
10,400.33 11,940.09
101.84 434.87
10,502.17 12,374.96
(1,920.71) (4,048.95)
6.54 9.53
9.02 2.35
281.44 164.36
(385.00) (120.00)
- (811.88)
90.36 90.63
278.07 (15.78)
125.35 (1,623.26)
(1,514.93) (6,353.00)

116 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Standalone Cash Flow Statement for the year ended March 31, 2024

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from non current borrowings
Repayment of non current Borrowings
(Repayment) / Proceeds from current borrowings
Finance costpaid
Repayment of Lease Liabilities
Dividendspaid
Net cash used in fnancing activities (C)
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (A)+(B)+(C)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginningof theyear
Cash acquiredpursuant to Merger (Refer note 70)
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of theyear
Components of cash and cash equivalents
Cash on hand
Balances with banks:
In current accounts
In deposits accounts with original maturityfor less than 3 months
Cash and cash equivalents (Refer note 17)
Cash credit and Bank overdraft facilities (Refer note 28)
Total cash and cash equivalents considered for cash fows
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
3,630.84
(5,395.72)
229.14
(2,041.68)
(127.94)
(419.97)
(4,125.34)
1,896.62
(449.15)
6.48
1,453.95
4.38
3,190.63
12.52
3,207.53
(1,753.59)
1,453.95
305.37
(5,047.81)
(2,181.52)
(1,666.69)
(133.92)
(360.93)
(9,085.50)
(98.26)
1,453.95
-
1,355.69
8.87
1,854.56
-
1,863.43
(507.74)
1,355.69

See accompanying notes to the Standalone financial statements 1-74

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

As per our report of even date

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

per Poonam Todarwal

Partner Membership No. 136454

Krishna Datla

Executive Vice-Chairman DIN 00003247

Prashant Nagre

Managing Director DIN 09165447

Thane, May 27, 2024

Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Officer Thane, May 27, 2024

Srikant N. Sharma

Company Secretary

Annual Report 2023-24 | 117

(a) Equity share capital
(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
Balance at the beginning of the year
1,442.87
1,442.37
Add: Shares issued during the year on stock option exercise
0.84
0.50
Balance at the end of the year
1,443.71
1,442.87
(b) Other equity
(Hin Lakhs)
Total 38,154.82 205.04 (5,700.32) - 7.85 (419.97) (101.85) 17.26 32,162.83 (1,874.33) - 13.24 (360.93) 19.06 19.03 29,978.90 See accompanying notes 1-74 to the Standalone fnancial statements
# Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)
As per our report of even date
For S R B C & CO LLP
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of
Chartered Accountants
Fermenta Biotech Limited
ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003
per Poonam Todarwal
Krishna Datla
Prashant Nagre
Partner
Executive Vice-Chairman
Managing Director
Membership No. 136454
DIN 00003247
DIN 09165447
Sumesh Gandhi
Srikant N. Sharma
Chief Financial Ofcer
Company Secretary
Thane, May 27, 2024
Thane, May 27, 2024
Items of other
comprehensive
income
Equity
instruments
through OCI
26.29 - - - - 6.10 32.39 - - - - - 6.75 39.14
Reserves and Surplus Retained
earnings
35,071.57 940.37 (5,700.32) - - (419.97) - 11.16 29,902.81 (1,874.33) - (360.93) - 12.28 27,679.83
Share options
outstanding
account
1,469.19 - (42.09) - (101.85) - 1,325.25 - (70.86) - - 19.06 - 1,273.45
General
reserve
3,545.80 196.30 - - - - - 3,742.10 - - - - - - 3,742.10
Securities
premium
- 102.85 - 42.09 7.85 - 152.79 70.86 13.24 - 236.90
Capital
reserve
1,140.00 - - - 1,140.00 - - - - - - 1,140.00
Capital reserve
pursuant to
amalgamation
1,074.20 (1,034.48) - - - 39.72 - - - - - 39.72
Capital
redemption
reserve
70.00 - - - 70.00 - - - - - 70.00
Unrealised
(loss) on
dilution
(4,242.23) - - - (4,242.23) - - - - - (4,242.23)
Particulars Balance as at April 01, 2022 Pursuant to merger (Refer note 70) Loss for the year Transfer to equity share capital on excerise
of options
Premium on issue of equity share on stock
option excerise
Payment of dividend (Gross) Recognition of share based payments (Gain)
Other comprehensive income for the year
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # Loss for the year Transfer to equity share capital on excerise
of options
Premium on issue of equity share on stock
option excerise
Payment of dividend (Gross) Recognition of share based payments Other comprehensive income for the year Balance as at March 31, 2024

118 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

1. Corporate information

Fermenta Biotech Limited (Formerly Known as DIL Limited) (‘the Company’) (CIN - L99999MH1951PLC008485) is a public company domiciled in India and incorporated under the provisions of the Companies Act, 1913. Its shares are listed on Bombay Stock Exchange.

The registered office of the Company is located at A- 1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) 400610. The Company is engaged in the business of manufacturing and marketing of chemicals, bulk drugs, enzymes, pharmaceutical formulations and environmental solution products and renting and selling of properties. The Company caters to both domestic and international markets. The Company also has strategic investments in subsidiaries primarily dealing in manufacturing and marketing bulk drugs.

The financial statements were approved for issue in accordance with a resolution of the board of directors on 27[th] 2024.

2. Material accounting policies

2.1 Statement of compliance and basis of preparation

These Standalone Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in India including Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) prescribed under the section 133 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with rule 3 of the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards)Rules, 2015 (as amended from time to time) and presentation and disclosures requirement of Division II of revised Schedule III of the Companies Act 2013, (Ind AS Compliant Schedule III), as applicable to standalone financial statement.

The financial statements have been prepared on accrual and going concern basis. The accounting policies are applied consistently to all the periods presented in the financial statements except where a newly issued accounting standard is initially adopted or a revision to an existing accounting standard requires a change in the accounting policy hitherto in use.

The financial statements are presented in Indian Rupee (INR) and all values are rounded to the nearest lacs (INR 00,000), except when otherwise indicated.

The financial statements provide comparative information in respect of the previous period. In addition, the Company presents an additional balance sheet at the beginning of the preceding period when there is a retrospective application of an accounting policy, a retrospective restatement, or a reclassification of items in standalone financial statements.

2.2 Basis of measurement

The standalone financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except for:

  • (i) certain financial instruments that are measured at fair values at the end of each reporting period; and

  • (ii) defined benefit plan – plan assets that are measured at fair values at the end of each reporting period, as explained in the accounting policies below.

(a) Fair Value Measurement

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, regardless of whether that price is directly observable or estimated using another valuation technique. In estimating the fair value of an asset or a liability, the Company takes into account the characteristics of the asset or liability if market participants would take those characteristics into account when pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. Fair value for measurement and/or disclosure purposes in these financial statements is determined on such a basis, except for leasing transactions that are within the scope of Ind AS 116, share based payment transactions that are within the scope of Ind AS 102 and measurements that have some similarities to fair value but are not fair value, such as net realisable value in Ind AS 2 or value in use in Ind AS 36.

In addition, for financial reporting purposes, fair value measurements are categorised into Level 1, 2, or 3 based on the degree to which the inputs to the fair value measurements are observable and the significance of the inputs to the fair value measurement in its entirety, which are described as follows:

Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can access at the measurement date;

Level 2 inputs are inputs, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and

Annual Report 2023-24 | 119

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

The Company has consistently applied accounting policies to all periods presented in these Standalone financial statements.

(b) Operating cycle and current/non current classification

Based on the nature of products/activities of the Company and the normal time between acquisition of assets/liabilities and their realization/settlement in cash and cash equivalents, the Company has determined its operating cycle as twelve months for the purpose of classification of its assets and liabilities as current and non-current.

The Company presents assets and liabilities in the balance sheet based on current/ non-current classification. An asset is treated as current when it is:

  • Expected to be realised or intended to be sold or consumed in normal operating cycle

  • Held primarily for the purpose of trading

  • Expected to be realised within twelve months after the reporting period, or

  • Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period.

All other assets are classified as non-current.

A liability is current when:

  • It is expected to be settled in normal operating cycle

  • It is held primarily for the purpose of trading

  • It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period, or

  • There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period

The terms of the liability that could, at the option of the counterparty, result in its settlement by the issue of equity instruments do not affect its classification.

The Company classifies all other liabilities as non-current.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as non-current assets and liabilities.

(c) Goodwill

Goodwill arising on an acquisition of a business is carried at cost as established at the date of acquisition of the business less accumulated losses, if any.

For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Company's cash-generating units (or groups of cashgenerating units) that is expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination.

A cash-generating unit to which goodwill has been allocated is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently when there is an indication that the unit may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than its carrying amount, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the unit prorata based on the carrying amount of each asset in the unit. Any impairment loss for goodwill is recognised directly in profit or loss. An impairment loss recognised for goodwill is not reversed in subsequent periods.

On disposal of the relevant cash-generating unit, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal.

(d) Foreign currencies

The Company’s Standalone financial statements are presented in INR, which is also the Company’s functional currency.

Functional and presentation currency

Management has determined the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity resides in and operates as the functional currency. The functional currency of the Company is Indian Rupees (INR). The financial statements have been presented in INR, as it best represents the operating business performance and underlying transactions.

120 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Foreign currency transactions

In preparing the standalone financial statements of the Company, transactions in currencies other than the Company’s functional currency (foreign currencies) are recognised at the rates of exchange prevailing at the dates of the transactions. At the end of each reporting period, monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are re-translated at the rates prevailing at that date. Nonmonetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are re-translated at the rates prevailing at the date when the fair value was determined Non-monetary assets and non-monetary liabilities denominated in a foreign currency and measured at historical cost are translated at the exchange rate prevalent at the date of the transaction. The related revenue and expense are recognized using the same exchange rate.

Exchange differences on monetary items are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they arise except for exchange differences on foreign currency borrowings relating to assets under construction for future productive use, which are included in the cost of those assets when they are regarded as an adjustment to interest costs on those foreign currency borrowings.

(e) Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets are substantially ready for their intended use or sale.

Interest income earned on the temporary investment of specific borrowing pending their expenditure on qualifying assets is deducted from the borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation.

All other borrowing costs are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they are incurred.

Borrowing Cost includes exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the finance cost.

(f) Employee Benefits

  • i) Defined contribution plans: The Company contributes towards state governed provident fund scheme, employee state insurance scheme (ESIC) and labour welfare fund to all applicable employees and superannuation scheme for eligible employees. The Company has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. Hence payments to defined contribution retirement benefit plans are recognised as an expense when employees have rendered service entitling them to the contributions.

  • ii) Defined benefit plan: The employees’ gratuity fund scheme represents the defined benefit plan. The cost of providing benefits is determined using projected unit credit method, with actuarial valuations being carried out at the end of each annual reporting period. Remeasurement, comprising actuarial gains and losses, the effect of changes to the assets (if applicable) and the return on plan assets (excluding net interest), is reflected immediately in the balance sheet with a charge or credit recognised in other comprehensive income in the period in which they occur. Remeasurement recognised in other comprehensive income is reflected immediately in retained earnings and is not reclassified to profit or loss. Past service cost is recognised in profit or loss in the period of a plan amendment. Net interest is calculated by applying the discount rate at the beginning of the period to the net defined benefit liability or asset.

Defined benefit costs are categorised as follows:

  • i) service cost (including current service cost, past service cost, as well as gains and losses on curtailments and settlements);

  • ii) net interest expenses or income; and

  • iii) remeasurement

  • The Company presents the first two components of defined benefit costs in the statement of profit and loss in the line item 'Employee benefits expense'. Curtailment gains and losses are accounted for as past service cost.

  • iii) Share-based payments:

Equity-settled share-based payments to employees and others providing similar services are measured at the fair value of the equity instruments at the grant date. Details regarding the determination of the fair value of equity-settled sharebased transactions are set out in note 60.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 121

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

  • (a) Includes impact of market performance conditions (e.g. entity’s share price)

  • (b) Excludes impact of any service and non-market performance vesting conditions (e.g. profitability, sales growth targets and remaining an employee of the entity over a specified time period), and

  • (c) Excludes the impact of any non-vesting conditions (e.g. the requirement for employees to save or hold shares for a specific period of time)

The fair value determined at the grant date of the equity-settled share-based payments is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the Company's estimate of equity instruments that will eventually vest, with a corresponding increase in equity. At the end of each reporting period, the Company revises its estimate of the number of equity instruments expected to vest. The impact of the revision of the original estimates, if any, is recognised in profit or loss such that the cumulative expense reflects the revised estimate, with a corresponding adjustment to the "Share options outstanding account".

  • (iv) Short term and other long term employee benefits: A liability is recognised for benefits accruing to employees in respect of wages, salaries and bonus in the period the related service is rendered at the undiscounted amount of the benefits expected to be paid in exchange for that service. Liabilities recognised in respect of short-term employee benefits are measured at the undiscounted amount of the benefits expected to be paid in exchange for the related service.

Liabilities recognised in respect of other long term employee benefits are actuarially measured at the present value of the estimated future cash outflows expected to be made by the Company in respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting date.

(g) Income Taxes

Income Tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

i) Current tax:

Current tax is the amount of income taxes payable in respect of taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from ‘profit before tax’ as reported in the Standalone statement of profit and loss because of items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and items that are never taxable or deductible under the Income Tax Act, 1961. The current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.

Significant judgments are involved in determining the provision for income taxes including judgment on whether tax positions are probable of being sustained in tax assessments. A tax assessment can involve complex issues, which can only be resolved over extended time periods. The recognition of taxes that are subject to certain legal or economic limits or uncertainties is assessed individually by management based on the specific facts and circumstances

ii) Deferred tax:

Deferred tax is recognized on temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit under the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are generally recognized for all the deductible temporary differences to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which those deductible temporary differences can be utilised. Such deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the assets to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period in which the liability is settled or the asset realised, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period. The measurement of deferred tax liabilities and assets reflect the tax consequences that would follow from the manner in which the Company expects, at the end of the reporting period, to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.

Minimum Alternate Tax (‘MAT’) credit is recognised as deferred tax asset only when and to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Company will pay normal income tax during the period for which the MAT credit can be carried forward for

122 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

set-off against the normal tax liability. MAT credit recognised as an asset is reviewed at each balance sheet date and written down to the extent the aforesaid convincing evidence no longer exists.

iii) Presentation of current and deferred tax:

Current and deferred tax are recognized in the profit and loss, except when they relate to items that are recognised in Other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case, the current and deferred tax are also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity respectively.

The Company offsets current tax assets and current tax liabilities, where it has a legally enforceable right to set off the recognized amounts and where it intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. In case of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities, the same are offset if the Company has a legally enforceable right to set off corresponding current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the Company.

(h) Revenue recognition

The company derives revenue primarily from sale of manufactured chemicals, bulk drugs. Enzymes, pharmaceutical formulations, environmental solutions products and rental income and sale of investment property. Revenue from contracts with customers is recognized when control of the goods or services are transferred to the customer at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Revenue towards satisfaction of a performance obligation is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price of goods sold and services rendered is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts offered by the company as part of the agreed contractual terms and excluding taxes or duties collected on behalf of the government. No element of financing is deemed present as majority of sales are on cash basis and credit sales are made with normal credit period consistent with market practice.

Sale of Goods/Investment Property:

The Company recognises revenue when it transfers control of a product or service to a customer. The control of goods is transferred to the customer depending upon the incoterms or as agreed with customer or delivery basis. Control is considered to be transferred to the customer:

  • when the customer has ability to direct the use of such goods and obtain substantially all the benefits from it such as following delivery,

  • the customer has full discretion over the manner of distribution and price to sell the goods,

  • the customer has the primary responsibility when selling the goods and bears the risks of obsolescence and loss in relation to the goods.

Revenue received in connection with sale of goods is deferred and recognized over the period in which it satisfies the performance obligation by transferring promised good or service to a customer .

Recognition of revenue from contractual projects

Revenue from contractual project is recognized over time, using an input method with reference to the stage of completion of the contract activity at the end of the reporting period, measured based on the proportion of contract costs incurred for work performed to date relative to the estimated total contract costs.

The Company recognizes revenue only when it can reasonably measure its progress in satisfying the performance obligation. Until such time, the Company recognizes revenue to the extent of cost incurred, provided the Company expects to recover the costs incurred towards satisfying the performance obligation.

When it is probable that total contract cots will exceed total contract revenue, the expected loss is recognized as an expense immediately when such probability is determined.

Rental income from investment in property

Lease income from operating leases where the Company is a lessor is recognised in income on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognised over the lease term on the same basis as rental income.

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Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Rendering of services:

Revenue from services rendered is recognised pro-rata over the period of the contract as the underlying services are performed.

Infrastructure support services, consists of maintenance of common area in the investment property and supply of essentials. Revenue from such services are recognised in accordance with the terms of the agreement entered into with individual lessees.

Interest and dividend:

Interest income from financial assets is recognised when it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the amount of income can be measured reliably. Interest income is accrued on a time basis, by reference to the principal outstanding and the effective interest rate applicable, which is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of the financial assets to that asset’s net carrying amount on initial recognition.

Interest on income tax refund is recognised on receipt of refund order.

Dividend income is recognized when the Company’s right to receive payment is established which is generally when shareholders approve the dividend.

Export Incentives:

Duty free imports of raw materials under Advance License for imports as per the Import and Export Policy are matched with the exports made against the said licenses and net benefit / obligation is accounted by making suitable adjustments in raw material consumption.

The benefit under the Duty Drawback, Mercantile Export Incentive Scheme and other schemes as per the Import and Export policy in respect of exports made under the said schemes is included as ‘Export Incentives’ under the head “Other Operating Revenue” in the standalone statement of profit and loss and is accounted in the year of export.

Scrap Sales:

Sale of scrap is recognised at the time of satisfaction of performance obligation i.e. upon transfer of control of products to the customers which coincides with their delivery to customer.

Contract balances-

Trade receivables

A receivable is recognised if an amount of consideration is unconditional (i.e., only the passage of time is required before payment of the consideration is due). Refer to accounting policies of financial assets in point (o) above.

Contract liabilities

A contract liability is recognised if a payment is received or a payment is due (whichever is earlier) from a customer before the Company transfers the related goods or services. Contract liabilities are recognised as revenue when the Company performs under the contract (i.e., transfers control of the related goods or services to the customer).

(i) Property, plant and equipment (PPE)

Measurement at recognition:

Items of property, plant and equipment are stated in balance sheet at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Freehold land is not depreciated. Cost includes professional fees and, for qualifying assets, borrowing costs capitalised in accordance with the Company’s accounting policy.

Properties in the course of construction for production, supply or administrative purposes are carried at cost, less any recognised impairment loss. Cost includes professional fees and, for qualifying assets, borrowing costs capitalised in accordance with the Company’s accounting policy. Such properties are classified to the appropriate categories of property, plant and equipment when completed and ready for intended use. Depreciation of these assets, on the same basis as other property assets, commences when the assets are ready for their intended use. When parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items (major components) of property, plant and equipment.

Capital work in progress comprises cost of property, plant and equipment (including related expenses),that are not yet ready for their intended use at the reporting date and it is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses.

An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from the continued use of the asset. Any gain or loss arising on the disposal or retirement of an item of property, plant and

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Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

equipment is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment and is recognised in profit or loss.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost of assets (other than freehold land and capital work-in-progress) less their residual values on straight-line method over their useful lives as indicated in Part C of Schedule II of the Companies Act, 2013 and based on assessment / estimate made by management. Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimate accounted for on a prospective basis.

An item of property, plant and equipment and any significant part initially recognised is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the income statement when the asset is derecognised.

The residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation of property, plant and equipment are reviewed at each financial year end and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

The estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment are as follows:

The estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment are as follows:
Assets Estimated useful life (inyears)
Buildings 30-60
Lease hold improvements (included in buildings) 5-10 (Over the lease term)
Plant and equipment 5-20
Ofce Equipment (included inplant and equipment) 5-6
Computers (included inplant and equipment) 3-6
Furniture and fxtures 6-10
Vehicles 8

(j) Investment property

Investment properties are properties held to earn rentals and/or for capital appreciation (including property under construction for such purposes) and subsequent sale as and when required. Investment properties are measured-initially at cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are measured in accordance with Ind AS 16 requirements for cost model.

Transfers to, or from, investment property shall be made when, and only when, there is a change in use, evidenced by:

  • (a) commencement of owner-occupation, for a transfer from investment property to owner-occupied property

  • (b) commencement of development with a view to sale, for a transfer from investment property to inventories

  • (c) end of owner-occupation, for a transfer from owner-occupied property to investment property;

  • (d) commencement of an operating lease to another party, for a transfer from inventories to investment property

Sale of investment Property

An investment property is de-recognised upon disposal and the or when the investment property is permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefits are expected from the disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the property (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in profit or loss in the period in which the property is derecognized and is recognized under revenue from operations.

Revenue pertaining to performance obligation pending as on the date of sale is deferred till the performance obligation is not completed.

The estimated useful lives of Investment property are as follows:

The estimated useful lives of Investment property are as follows:
Assets Estimated useful life (inyears)
Building 60
Plant and equipment 15

Annual Report 2023-24 | 125

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

(k) Intangible assets

(a) Intangible assets acquired separately

Intangible assets with finite useful lives that are acquired separately are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. The amortisation is recognised on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The estimated useful life and amortisation method are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimate being accounted for on a prospective basis.

An intangible asset is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising from derecognition of an intangible assets, measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, are recognised in standalone statement of profit and loss when the assets is derecognised.

(b) Internally-generated intangible assets - Research and development expenditure

Expenditure on research activities is recognised as an expense in the period in which it is incurred. An Internally-generated intangible asset arising from development (or from the development phase of an internal project) is recognised if and only if, all the below stated conditions are fulfilled:

  • (i) the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for use or sale;

  • (ii) its intention to complete the asset and use or sell it;

  • (iii) its ability to use or sell the asset;

  • (iv) how the asset will generate probable future economic benefits;

  • (v) the availability of adequate resources to complete the development and to use or sell the asset; and

  • (vi) the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during development.

The amount initially recognised for internally-generated intangible assets is the sum of expenditure incurred from the date when the intangible assets first meets the recognition criteria listed above. Where no internally-generated intangible assets can be recognised, development expenditure is recognised in the standalone statement of profit and loss in the period in which incurred.

Subsequent to initial recognition, internally-generated intangible assets are reported at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses, on the same basis as intangible as intangible assets that are acquired separately.

The estimated useful lives of intangible assets are as follows:

The estimated useful lives of intangible assets are as follows:
Assets Estimated useful life (inyears)
Computer software 3-6
Product know-how 3-5

(l) Impairment of tangible and intangible assets other than goodwill

At the end of each reporting period, the Company reviews the carrying amount of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the assets is estimated in order to determine the extent of impairment loss, if any. When it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit to which the assets belongs. When a reasonable and consistent basis of allocation can be identified, corporate assets are also allocated to individual cash-generating units, or otherwise they are allocated to the smallest group of cash-generating units for a reasonable and consistent allocation basis to be identified.

Impairment loss is recognised when the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount. Recoverable amount is determined:

  • (i) in the case of an individual asset, at the higher of the net selling price and the value in use; and

  • (ii) in the case of a cash generating unit (a Group of assets that generates identified, independent cash flows), at the higher of the cash generating unit’s net selling price and the value in use.

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Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

The amount of value in use is determined as the present value of estimated future cash flows from the continuing use of an asset and from its disposal at the end of its useful life. For this purpose, the discount rate (pre-tax) is determined based on the weighted average cost of capital of the Company suitably adjusted for risks specified to the estimated cash flows of the asset.

For this purpose, a cash generating unit is ascertained as the smallest identifiable Group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or group of assets.

If recoverable amount of an asset (or a cash generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, such deficit is recognised immediately in the statement of profit and loss as impairment loss and the carrying amount of the asset (or cash generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount.

When an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or a cash generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss is recognised for the asset (or a cash generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in the standalone statement of profit and loss.

(m) Impairment of goodwill

Goodwill is tested for impairment annually and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired. Impairment is determined for goodwill by assessing the recoverable amount of each CGU (or group of CGUs) to which the goodwill relates. When the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognised. Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed in future periods.

Any impairment loss for goodwill is recognised directly in profit or loss and is not reversed in subsequent periods.

On disposal of the relevant cash-generating unit, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal.

(n) Inventories

Basis of Valuation

Inventories consisting of raw materials and packing materials, work-in-progress, stock-in-trade and finished goods are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value.

Method of Valuation

The cost of all categories of inventories is based on the weighted average method. Cost of raw materials and packing materials and stock-in-trade comprises cost of purchases. Cost of work-in-progress and finished goods comprises direct material, direct labour and an appropriate proportion of variable and fixed overhead expenditure, the latter being allocated on the basis of normal operating capacity. Costs of inventories also include all other costs incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated costs of completion and costs necessary to make the sale.

(o) Financial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instruments.

Financial assets

Initial recognition and measurement:

All financial assets are recognised initially at fair value excluding trade receivables which is recorded at transaction cost. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets are added to the fair value of the financial asset on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets as at fair value through profit or loss are recognised immediately in profit or loss. All regular way purchases or sales of financial assets are recognized or derecognized on a trade date basis. Regular way purchases or sales of financial assets are financial assets that require delivery of assets within the time frame established by regulation or convention in the market place.

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Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Subsequent measurement

For purposes of subsequent measurement, financial assets are classified in four categories -

  • (1) Debt instruments at amortised cost

  • (2) Debt instruments at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI)

  • (3) Debt instruments, derivatives and equity instruments at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)

  • (4) Equity instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI)

  • (1) Debt instruments at amortised cost

  • A ‘debt instrument’ is measured at the amortised cost, if both the following conditions are met:

  • a) The asset is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets for collecting contractual cash flows, and

  • b) Contractual terms of the asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest (SPPI) on the principal amount outstanding.

After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate (EIR) method. Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortisation is included in other income of the Statement of profit and loss. The losses arising from impairment are recognised in the Statement of profit or loss.

  • (2) Debt instrument at FVTOCI

  • A ‘debt instrument’ is measured as at FVTOCI, if both of the following criteria are met:

  • The objective of the business model is achieved both by collecting contractual cash flows and selling the financial assets, and the contractual terms of the instrument that give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are SPPI on the principal amount outstanding.

  • Debt instruments included within the FVTOCI category are measured initially as well as at each reporting date at fair value. Fair value movements are recognised in the other comprehensive income (OCI). However, the Company recognise interest income, impairment losses and reversals and foreign exchange gain or loss in the profit or loss. On derecognition of the asset, cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in OCI is reclassified from the equity to profit or loss. Interest earned whilst holding FVTOCI debt instrument is reported as interest income using the EIR method.

  • (3) Debt instrument at FVTPL

FVTPL is a residual category for debt instruments. Any debt instrument, which does not meet the criteria for categorization as at amortised cost or as FVTOCI, is classified as at FVTPL. In addition, the Company may elect to designate a debt instrument, which otherwise meets amortised cost or FVTOCI criteria, as at FVTPL. However, such election is allowed only if doing so reduces or eliminates a measurement or recognition inconsistency (referred to as ‘accounting mismatch’).

  • (4) Equity Instruments

All equity Instruments in scope of Ind AS 109 are measured at fair value. Equity instruments which are held for trading classified as at FVTPL. For all other equity instruments, the Company may make an irrevocable election to present in other comprehensive income subsequent changes in the fair value. The Company makes such election on an instrument- by-instrument basis. The classification is made on initial recognition and is irrevocable.

If the Company decides to classify an equity instrument as at FVTOCI, then all fair value changes on the instrument including foreign exchange gain or loss, excluding dividends, are recognised in the OCI. There is no recycling of the amounts from OCI to statement of profit and loss, even on sale of investment. However, the Company may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity.

Derecognition

A financial asset (or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or part of a group of similar financial assets) is primarily derecognised (i.e. removed from the Company’s balance sheet) when:

  • 1) The contractual rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired, or

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

  • 2) The Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a ‘pass-through’ arrangement; and either

  • (a) The Company has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or

  • (b) The Company has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset.

When the Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from an asset or has entered into a pass-through arrangement, it evaluates if and to what extent it has retained the risks and rewards of ownership. When it has neither transferred nor retained substantially all of the risks and rewards of the asset, nor transferred control of the asset, the Company continues to recognise the transferred asset to the extent of the Company’s continuing involvement; in that case the Company also recognise an associated liability. The transferred asset and the associated liability are measured on a basis that reflects the rights and obligations that the Company has retained. Continuing involvement that takes the form of a guarantee over the transferred asset is measured at the lower of the original carrying amount of the asset and the maximum amount of consideration that the Company could be required to repay.

Impairment of financial assets

In accordance with Ind AS 109, the Company applies expected credit loss (ECL) model for measurement and recognition of impairment loss on financial assets measured at amortised cost, trade receivables, other contractual rights to receive cash or other financial assets, and guarantees not designated as at FVTPL.

Expected credit losses are the weighted average of credit losses with the respective risks of default occurring as the weights. Credit loss is the difference between all contractual cash flows that are due to the Company in accordance with the contract and all the cash flows that the Company expects to receive (i.e. all cash shortfalls), discounted at the original effective interest rate (or credit adjusted effective interest rate for purchase or originated credit-impaired financial assets). The Company estimates cash flow by considering all contractual terms of the financial instrument (for example, prepayment, extension, call and similar options) through the expected life of that financial instrument.

The Company measures the loss allowance for a financial instrument at an amount equal to the lifetime expected credit losses if the credit risk on that financial instrument has increased significantly since initial recognition. If the credit risk on a financial instrument has not increased significantly since initial recognition, the Company measures the loss allowance for that financial instrument at an amount equal to 12 month expected credit losses. 12-month expected credit losses are portion of the lifetime expected credit losses and represent the lifetime cash shortfalls that will result if the default occurs within the 12-months after the reporting date and thus, are not cash shortfalls that are predicted over the next 12-months.

If the Company’s measured loss allowance for a financial instrument at lifetime expected credit loss model in the previous period, but determines at the end of a reporting period that the credit risks has not increased significantly since initial recognition due to improvement in credit quality as compared to the previous period, the Company again measures the loss allowance based on 12-month expected credit losses.

When making the assessment of whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, the Company uses the change in the risk of a default occurring over the expected life of the financial instrument instead of the change in the amount of expected credit losses. To make that assessment, the Company compares the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the reporting date with the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the date of initial recognition and considers reasonable and supportable information, that is available without undue cost or effort, that is indicative of significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition.

Further, for the purpose of measuring lifetime expected credit loss allowance for trade receivables, the Company has used a practical expedient as permitted under Ind AS 109. This expected credit loss allowance is computed based on a provision matrix which takes into account historical credit loss experience and adjusted for forward-looking information.

The impairment requirements for the recognition and measurement of a loss allowance are equally applied to debt instruments at FVTOCI except that the loss allowance is recognised in other comprehensive income and is not reduced from the carrying amount in the balance sheet.

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Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Financial liabilities and equity instruments

Classifcation as debts or equity:

Debts and equity instruments issued by the Company are classified as either financial liabilities or as equity in accordance with the substance of the contractual arrangements and the definitions of a financial liability and an equity instrument.

Equity instruments:

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Company after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Company are recognised at the proceeds received, net of direct issue cost.

Repurchase of the Company’s own equity instruments is recognised and deducted directly in equity. No gain or loss is recognised in statement of profit and loss on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the Company’s own equity instruments.

Financial liabilities:

Initial recognition and measurement:

All financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the issue of financial liabilities (other than financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss) are deducted from the fair value of the financial liabilities on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the issue of financial liabilities as at fair value through profit or loss are recognised immediately in profit or loss.

Subsequent measurement:

All financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method or at FVTPL. However, financial liabilities that arise when a transfer of a financial asset does not qualify for derecognition or when the continuing involvement approach applies, financial guarantee contracts, issued by the Company, and commitments issued by the Company to provide a loan at below-market interest rate are measured in accordance with the specific accounting policies set out below.

Financial liabilities at FVTPL:

Financial liabilities are classified as at FVTPL when the financial liability is either contingent consideration recognised by the Company as an acquirer in a business combination to which Ind AS 103 applies or is held for trading or it is designated as at FVTPL.

A financial liability is classified as held for trading if:

  • it has been incurred principally for the purpose of repurchasing it in the near term; or

  • on initial recognition it is part of a portfolio of identified financial instruments that the Company manages together and has a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking; or

  • it is a derivative that is not designated and effective as a hedging instrument.

Financial liabilities at FVTPL are stated at fair value, with any gains or losses arising on remeasurement recognised in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognised in profit or loss incorporates any interest paid on the financial liability and is included in the ‘Other income’ line item.

However, for non-held-for-trading financial liabilities that are designated as at FVTPL, the amount of change in the fair value of the financial liability that is attributable to changes in the credit risk of that liability is recognised in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the liability’s credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit, or loss, in which case these effects of changes in credit risk are recognised in profit or loss. The remaining amount of change in the fair value of liability is always recognised in profit and loss. Changes in fair value attributable to a financial liability’s credit risk that are recognised in other comprehensive income are reflected immediately in retained earnings and are not subsequently reclassified to profit or loss.

Gains or losses on financial guarantee contracts and loan commitments issued by the company that are designated by the Company as at fair value through profit or loss are recognised in profit or loss.

Fair value is determined in the manner described in note 55.

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Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Financial liabilities at amortised cost:

Financial liabilities that are not held-for-trading and are not designated as at FVTPL are measured at amortised cost at the end of subsequent accounting periods. The carrying amounts of financial liabilities that are subsequently measured at amortised cost are determined based on the effective interest method. Interest expense that is not capitalised as part of costs of an asset is included in the ‘Finance costs’ line item.

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial liability, or (where appropriate) a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.

Derecognition of fnancial liabilities:

The Company derecognises financial liabilities when, and only when, the Company’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or have expired. An exchange between with a lender of debt instruments with substantially different terms is accounted for as an extinguishment of the original financial liability and the recognition of a new financial liability. Similarly, a substantial modification of the terms of an existing financial liability (whether or not attributable to the financial difficulty of the debtor) is accounted for as an extinguishment of the original financial liability and the recognition of a new financial liability. The difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognised and the consideration paid and payable is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

Ofsetting of fnancial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the balance sheet if there is a currently enforceable legal right to offset the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, to realise the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously.

(p) Leasing

The Company as a lessee:

The Company’s lease asset classes primarily consist of leases for Residential premises, Office Premises, Godown, Industrials land and Vehicle. The Company assesses whether a contract contains a lease, at inception of a contract.

At the date of commencement of the lease, the Company recognizes a right-of-use asset (“ROU”) and a corresponding lease liability for all lease arrangements in which it is a lessee, except for leases with a term of twelve months or less (short-term leases) and low value leases. For these short-term and low value leases, the Company recognizes the lease payments as an operating expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. The right-of-use assets and lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the future lease payments. The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if not readily determinable, using the incremental borrowing rates in the country of domicile of these leases.

The lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease. If that rate cannot be readily determined, which is generally the case for leases in the Company, the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate is used, being the rate that the individual lessee would have to pay to borrow the funds necessary to obtain an asset of similar value to the right-of-use asset in a similar economic environment with similar terms, security and conditions.

Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise:

  • Fixed lease payments (including in-substance fixed payments) payable during the lease term and under reasonably certain extension options, less any lease incentives;

  • Variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate, initially measured using the index or rate at the commencement date;

  • The amount expected to be payable by the lessee under residual value guarantees;

  • The exercise price of purchase options, if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise the options; and

  • Payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the exercise of an option to terminate the lease.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 131

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

As a practical expedient, Ind AS 116 permits a lessee not to separate non-lease components when bifurcation of the payments is not available between the two components, and instead account for any lease and associated non-lease components as a single arrangement. The Company has used this practical expedient. Contingent and variable rentals are recognized as expense in the periods in which they are incurred.

The lease liability is subsequently measured by increasing the carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease liability (using the effective interest method) and by reducing the carrying amount to reflect the lease payments made.

The Company remeasures the lease liability (and makes a corresponding adjustment to the related right-of-use asset) whenever:

  • The lease term has changed or there is a change in the assessment of exercise of a purchase option, in which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a revised discount rate.

  • A lease contract is modified and the lease modification is not accounted for as a separate lease, in which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a revised discount rate.

The right-of-use assets are initially recognized at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or prior to the commencement date of the lease plus any initial direct costs less any lease incentives. They are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Whenever the Company incurs an obligation for costs to dismantle and remove a leased asset, restore the site on which it is located or restore the underlying asset to the condition required by the terms and conditions of the lease, a provision is recognised and measured under Ind AS 37. The costs are included in the related right-of-use asset, unless those costs are incurred to produce inventories.

Right-of-use assets are depreciated from the commencement date on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the lease term and useful life of the underlying asset. Right of use assets are evaluated for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. For the purpose of impairment testing, the recoverable amount (i.e. the higher of the fair value less cost to sell and the value-in-use) is determined on an individual asset basis unless the asset does not generate cash flows that are largely independent of those from other assets. In such cases, the recoverable amount is determined for the Cash Generating Unit (CGU) to which the asset belongs.

Extension and termination options are included in many of the leases. In determining the lease term the management considers all facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive to exercise an extension option, or not exercise a termination option.

Lease liability and ROU asset have been separately presented in the Balance Sheet and lease payments have been classified as financing cash flows.

Also refer Note 46.

In respect of short-term leases and leases of low-value assets, the Company has elected not to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases of real estate properties that have a lease term of 12 months. The Company recognises the lease payments associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

The Company as a lessor

Leases for which the Company is a lessor is classified as a finance or operating lease. Whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessee, the contract is classified as a finance lease. All other leases are classified as operating leases. Ind AS 116 does not change substantially how a lessor accounts for leases. Under Ind AS 116, a lessor continues to classify leases as either finance leases or operating leases and account for those two types of leases differently. However, Ind AS 116 has changed and expanded the disclosures required, in particular with regard to how a lessor manages the risks arising from its residual interest in leased assets.

When the Company is an intermediate lessor, it accounts for its interests in the head lease and the sublease separately. The sublease is classified as a finance or operating lease by reference to the right-of-use asset arising from the head lease.

For operating leases, rental income is recognized on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

  • (q) Provisions, contingent liabilities and contingent assets

Provisions are recognized when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that the Company will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

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Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. When a provision is measured using the cash flows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of those cash flows when the effect of the time value of money is material.

When some or all of the economic benefits required to settle a provision are expected to be recovered from a third party, a receivable is recognised as an asset if it is virtually certain that reimbursement will be received and the amount of the receivable can be measured reliably.

Contingent assets are not recognized in the financial statements of the Company. A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the Company or a present obligation that is not recognized because it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. A contingent liability also arises in extremely rare cases where there is a liability that cannot be recognized because it cannot be measured reliably. The Company does not recognize a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the financial statements.

(r) Earnings per share

The Company presents basic and diluted earnings per share data for its equity shares.

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the profit attributable to equity shareholders by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the financial year. Diluted earnings per share is determined by adjusting the profit or loss attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares, which includes all stock options granted to employees.

  • (s) Cash and cash equivalents:

Cash and cash equivalents in the balance sheet comprise cash at banks and on hand and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less, which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

For the purpose of the Statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits, as defined above, net of cash credit balances and bank overdrafts as they are considered an integral part of the Company’s cash management.

(t) Operating segments:

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker (CODM). The chief operating decision maker is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments of the Company and accordingly is identified as the chief operating decision maker.

(u) Dividends

The Company recognises a liability to make cash distributions to equity holders when the distribution is authorised and the distribution is no longer at the discretion of the Company. As per the corporate laws in India, a distribution is authorised when it is approved by the shareholders. A corresponding amount is recognised directly in equity.

(v) Use of estimates and judgements

The preparation of the Company’s financial statements requires the management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, and the accompanying disclosures, and the disclosure of contingent liabilities. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected. In particular, information about significant areas of estimation uncertainty and critical judgments in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements is included in the following notes:

Fair value measurement of financial instruments:

When the fair values of financials assets and financial liabilities recorded in the financial statements cannot be measured based on quoted prices in active markets, their fair value is measured using valuation techniques which involve various judgements and assumptions.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 133

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Useful lives of property, plant and equipment, investment property and intangible assets:

Property, plant and equipment, investment property and intangible assets represent a significant proportion of the asset base of the Company. The charge in respect of periodic depreciation and amortisation is derived after determining an estimate of an asset’s expected useful life and the expected residual value at the end of its life. The useful lives and residual values of Company’s assets are determined by the management at the time when the asset is acquired and reviewed periodically, including at each financial year end. The lives are based on historical experience with similar assets as well as anticipation of future events, which may impact their life, such as changes in technical or commercial obsolescence arising from changes or improvements in production or from a change in market demand of the product or service output of the asset.

Assets and obligations relating to employee benefits:

The employment benefit obligations depend on a number of factors that are determined on an actuarial basis using a number of assumptions. The assumptions used in determining the net cost/ (income) include the discount rate, inflation and mortality assumptions. Any changes in these assumptions will impact upon the carrying amount of employment benefit obligations.

Tax expense: [refer note 2(g) and note 48]

The Company’s tax jurisdiction is India. Significant judgements are involved in determining the provision for income taxes, if any, including amount expected to be paid/recovered for uncertain tax positions. Further, significant judgement is exercised to ascertain amount of deferred tax asset (DTA) that could be recognised based on the probability that future taxable profits will be available against which DTA can be utilized and amount of temporary difference in which DTA cannot be recognised on want of probable taxable profits.

Minimum Alternate Tax (‘MAT’) credit is recognised as deferred tax asset only when and to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Company will pay normal income tax during the period for which the MAT credit can be carried forward for set-off against the normal tax liability. MAT credit recognised as an asset is reviewed at each balance sheet date and written down to the extent the aforesaid convincing evidence no longer exists

Valuation of investment property [refer note 59]

Impairment of tangible and intangible assets other than goodwill (refer note 2(l))

Impairment of Goodwill (refer note 2(m)

Provisions: (refer note 2(q)

Write down in value of inventories: (refer note 15)

(v) Business Combinations

Business combinations under common control are accounted in accordance with Appendix C of IND AS 103 as per the pooling of interest method, and the Ind AS Transition Facilitation Group Clarification Bulletin 9 (ITFG 9) and an EAC opinion issued. ITFG 9 clarifies that, the carrying values of assets and liabilities as appearing in the standalone financial statements of the entities being combined shall be recognised by the combined entity. Basis the EAC opinion, carrying values as appearing in the Standalone Financial Statements of the merged entities are considered for the preparation of these financial statements. When the Company acquires a business, it assesses the financial assets and liabilities assumed for appropriate classification and designation in accordance with the contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as at the acquisition date. This includes the separation of embedded derivatives in host contracts by the acquiree.

(w) Exceptional items

Exceptional items are those items that management considers, by virtue of their size or incidence (including but not limited to impairment charges and acquisition and restructuring related costs), should be disclosed separately to ensure that the financial information allows an understanding of the underlying performance of the business in the year, so as to facilitate comparison with prior periods. Such items are material by nature or amount to the year’s result and require separate disclosure in accordance with Ind AS.

134 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

(x) Cashflow

Ind AS 7 requires an entity to exclude non-cash transaction relating to investing and financing activities from the statement of cash flow. However, such transactions should be disclosed elsewhere in the financial statements. The investing and financing activities in cash flow statement do not have a direct impact on current cash flows although they do affect the capital and asset structure of an entity. The company has disclosed these transactions, to the extent material in relevant notes.

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and balances with banks which are unrestricted for withdrawal and usage.

(y) Recent accounting pronouncements

New and amended standards

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has notified Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Amendment Rules, 2023 dated 31 March 2023 to amend the following Ind AS which are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 April 2023. The Company applied for the first-time these amendments.

  • (i) Definition of Accounting Estimates - Amendments to Ind AS 8 The amendments clarify the distinction between changes in accounting estimates and changes in accounting policies and the correction of errors. It has also been clarified how entities use measurement techniques and inputs to develop accounting estimates.

The amendments had no impact on the Company’s standalone financial statements.

  • (ii) Disclosure of Accounting Policies - Amendments to Ind AS 1 The amendments aim to help entities provide accounting policy disclosures that are more useful by replacing the requirement for entities to disclose their ‘significant’ accounting policies with a requirement to disclose their ‘material’ accounting policies and adding guidance on how entities apply the concept of materiality in making decisions about accounting policy disclosures.

The amendments have had an no impact on the Company’s disclosures of accounting policies.

  • (iii) Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction - Amendments to Ind AS 12 The amendments narrow the scope of the initial recognition exception under Ind AS 12, so that it no longer applies to transactions that give rise to equal taxable and deductible temporary differences such as leases.

The Company previously recognised for deferred tax on leases on a net basis. As a result of these amendments, the Company has recognised a separate deferred tax asset in relation to its lease liabilities and a deferred tax liability in relation to its rightof-use assets. Since, these balances qualify for offset as per the requirements of paragraph 74 of Ind AS 12,there is no impact in the balance sheet. There was also no impact on the opening retained earnings as at 1 April 2022.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 135

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

3. Property, plant and equipment

3. Property, plant and equipment
(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Freehold
land
Buildings Plant and
equipment
Furniture
and fxtures
Vehicles Leasehold
Improvements
Total
At cost or deemed cost as at
April 01, 2022
34.30 7,014.24 16,602.18 647.65 734.72 498.56 25,531.65
Additions - 163.66 742.60 73.07 324.67 1,617.83 2,921.83
Disposals - - (172.40) (14.64) (17.29) - (204.33)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 34.30 7,177.90 17,172.38 706.08 1,042.10 2,116.39 28,249.15
Additions - 2,902.16 2,159.49 0.67 17.08 - 5,079.40
Disposals - (6.68) (53.01) (2.48) (36.99) - (99.16)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 34.30 10,073.38 19,278.86 704.27 1,022.19 2,116.39 33,229.39
Accumulated depreciation
As at April 01, 2022 - 1,156.91 4,265.80 329.85 211.88 220.34 6,184.78
Depreciation expense - 287.04 1,166.77 91.28 96.58 106.41 1,748.08
Disposals - - (139.10) (14.59) (14.95) - (168.65)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 - 1,443.95 5,293.47 406.54 293.51 326.75 7,764.22
Depreciation expense - 317.57 1,263.71 47.11 114.42 160.09 1,902.90
Disposals - (6.62) (40.69) (2.41) (30.36) - (80.08)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 - 1,754.90 6,516.49 451.24 377.57 486.84 9,587.04
Carrying amount
As at March 31, 2023 34.30 5,733.95 11,878.91 299.54 748.59 1,789.64 20,484.93
As at March 31, 2024 34.30 8,318.48 12,762.37 253.03 644.62 1,629.55 23,642.35

4. Capital work-in-progress (CWIP)

4. Capital work-in-progress (CWIP)
Particulars
Project inprogress
Projects temporarilysuspended
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 * #
4,190.25
-
4,190.25
March 31, 2024
161.57
-
161.57

CWIP Comprises of projects for expansion of existing business along with factory set up for new/upgraded business line

*(Refer Notes 24 and 28- For details of assets pledged as security)

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Movement of Capital work-in-progress
Particulars
OpeningBalance
Addition duringtheyear
Capitalised duringtheyear
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
2,989.35
4,122.73
(2,921.83)
4,190.25
March 31, 2024
4,190.25
1,050.72
(5,079.40)
161.57

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

136 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Ageing of Capital work-in-progress

(H in Lakhs)

Capital work-in-progress
Balance as at March 31, 2024
Project inprogress
Balance as at March 31, 2023
Project inprogress
Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
70.30 - 91.27 - 161.57
2,910.47 1,272.78 7.00 - 4,190.25

CWIP completion schedule for project overdue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2024

CWIP completion schedule for project over
Project overdue
Saykhaproject (green feldproject)
Total
ue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, ue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, ue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2024 (Hin Lakhs)
Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
91.27 - - - 91.27
91.27 - - - 91.27

Projects cost consists of consulting fees and other direct cost.

CWIP completion schedule for project overdue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2023 #

CWIP completion schedule for project overdue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2023 #
(Hin Lakhs)
Project Overdue / Cost over Run Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
Premix Plant 3,997.54 - - - 3,997.54
Capacity enhancement of Biotech Plant
at Kullu Plant
41.03 - - - 41.03
AD 2 Project 14.30 - - - 14.30
Total 4,052.87 - - 4,052.87

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

5. Right-of-use Assets (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Leasehold land Buildings Vehicles Total
At cost or deemed cost as at April 01, 2022 1,055.85 832.40 166.21 2,054.46
Pursuant to merger (Refer note 70) - (187.30) - (187.30)
Disposals # - (92.90) (166.21) (259.11)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 1,055.85 552.20 - 1,608.05
Additions - 502.19 - 502.19
Disposals - - - -
Balance as at March 31, 2024 1,055.85 1,054.39 - 2,110.24
Accumulated depreciation
As at April 01, 2022 55.04 275.99 152.16 483.19
Pursuant to merger (Refer note 70) - (12.01) - (12.01)
Depreciation expense # 18.33 99.25 14.05 131.63
Disposals # - - (166.21) (166.21)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # 73.37 363.23 - 436.60
Depreciation expense 18.41 111.88 - 130.29
Disposals - - - -
Balance as at March 31, 2024 91.78 475.11 - 566.89
Carrying amount
As at March 31, 2023 # 982.48 188.97 - 1,171.45
As at March 31, 2024 964.07 579.28 - 1,543.35

(Refer Notes 24 and 28- For details of assets pledged as security)

(Refer Note 46)

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 137

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

6. Investment property

6. Investment property (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Leasehold land Buildings Plant and
equipment
Total
At cost or deemed cost as at April 01, 2022 20.79 6,174.08 2,039.74 8,234.61
Pursuant to merger (Refer note 70) 66.51 66.51
Additions - - - -
Disposal - (3,421.67) (1,170.90) (4,592.57)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 20.79 2,818.92 868.84 3,708.55
Additions 370.80 152.18 - 522.98
Disposal (387.76) (2,403.56) (784.27) (3,575.60)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 3.83 567.54 84.57 655.92
Accumulated depreciation
As at April 01, 2022 - 765.80 790.18 1,555.98
Pursuant to merger (Refer note 70) 17.51 - 17.51
Depreciation expense # - 125.95 134.01 259.95
Disposal# (476.98) (518.75) (995.73)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # - 432.28 405.44 837.71
Depreciation expense - 15.15 2.93 18.08
Disposal # - (365.26) (375.28) (740.54)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 - 82.17 33.09 115.25
Carrying amount
As at March 31, 2023 # 20.79 2,386.64 463.40 2,870.85
As at March 31, 2024 3.83 485.37 51.48 540.67

Refer notes 24 and 28 - For details of assets pledged as security (Refer Note 59)

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Title deeds of immovable property not held in the name of the company ;

Relevant line
item in the
Balance Sheet
Description of
item of property
Gross Value
of property
(HIn Lakhs)*
Title deed held
in the name of
Whether title deed
holder is a promoter,
director or relative
of promoter/director
or employee of
promoter/director
Property held
since which
date
Reason for not
being held in
the name of the
company
Investment
property
Freehold land
located at Village
Takwe (Budruk), Tal
– Maval District –
Pune admeasuring
11.95 (21.39) Acres
3.44
8.06
Mr. Krishna
Datla “held in
trust”on behalf
of the Company
Executive Vice-
Chairman
Various
date from
December 27,
1992 to July
04, 1995
The plot of land
is an agricultural
land lying in the
industrial zone
and is required
to registered in
individual names.
Ms. Rajeshwari
Datla “held in
trust” on behalf
of the Company
Non-Executive
Director (relative
of Executive Vice-
Chairman )
Various
date from
December 27,
1992 to July
04, 1995
The plot of land
is an agricultural
land lying in the
industrial zone
and is required
to registered in
individual names.
  • Bold figures represents current year figures.

138 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 6A. - Goodwill

Note 6A. - Goodwill
Particulars
Deemed cost
Accumulated impairment losses
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024
532.65
(121.00)
411.65
March 31, 2023 #
532.65
(121.00)
411.65

The amount of goodwill recognised is persuant to shares acquisition by the Company of its subsidiary in the earlier year. # Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

7. Other Intangible assets

7. Other Intangible assets (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Computer software Product know -how Total
At cost or deemed cost as at April 01, 2022 389.46 950.87 1,340.33
Additions # 6.07 377.72 383.79
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # 395.53 1,328.59 1,724.12
Additions 2.49 115.17 117.66
Disposals (4.92) - (4.92)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 393.10 1,443.76 1,836.86
Accumulated amortisation
As at April 01, 2022 303.78 368.60 672.38
Amortisation expense # 46.42 262.41 308.83
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # 350.20 631.01 981.21
Amortisation expense 26.48 291.80 318.28
Disposals (4.91) - (4.91)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 371.77 922.81 1,294.58
Carrying amount
As at March 31, 2023 # 45.33 697.58 742.91
As at March 31, 2024 21.33 520.95 542.28

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

8. Intangible assets under development
Particulars
Project inprogress
Projects temporarilysuspended
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024
-
-
-
March 31, 2023 #
311.96
-
311.96
Movement of Intangible assets under development
Particulars
OpeningBalance
(Written of)/Addition duringtheyear
Capitalised duringtheyear
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024
311.96
(194.30)
(117.66)
-
March 31, 2023 #
467.16
228.58
(383.78)
311.96

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 139

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

8. Intangible assets under development (Contd.)

Ageing of Intangible assets under development :

Ageing of Intangible assets under developm
Intangible assets under development
Balance as at March 31, 2024
Project inprogress
Balance as at March 31, 2023 #
Project inprogress
ent :
(Hin Lakhs)
ent :
(Hin Lakhs)
ent :
(Hin Lakhs)
ent :
(Hin Lakhs)
ent :
(Hin Lakhs)
Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
- - - - -
2.56 2.50 142.59 164.31 311.96

Intangible assets under development completion schedule for project overdue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2023 #

31, 2023 # 31, 2023 #
(Hin Lakhs)
Project overdue / Cost over run Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
Penicillin G acylases 91.78 - - - 91.78
Phyto to stegma sterol 68.94 - - - 68.94
Calcifdiol 58.90 - - - 58.90
25-OH 26.15 - - - 26.15
4HBCBiotech 23.08 - - - 23.08
Others 38.05 - - - 38.05
Total 306.89 - - - 306.89

Projects cost consists of Stores and spare parts consumed, other direct cost and consulting cost

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

9. A Investments in subsidiaries - in equity instruments unquoted (Fully paid up)

(At cost less impairment in the value of investments, if any)

(At cost less impairment in the value of investments, if any)
Particulars
a)
G. I. Biotech Private Limited
10,000 Equityshares ofH10/- each.
Less: Impairment in the value of investment
b)
Fermenta Biotech (UK) Limited
220,001 EquityShares of G.B.Pound 1/- each.
Less: Impairment in the value of investment
c)
Fermenta Biotech GmbH
1,000,000 Equityshares of Euro 1/- each.
Less: Impairment in the value of investment (Refer note 69)
d)
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC*
Contribution towards membershipinterest USD 1,600,000
Less: Impairment in the value of investment (Refer note 69)
Aggregate amount of unquoted investments before impairment
Aggregate amount of impairment in value of investments
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
0.88
(0.88)
-
183.99
(148.65)
35.34
831.21
(831.21)
-
1,184.72
-
1,220.06
2,200.80
980.74
March 31, 2024
-
-
-
183.99
(148.65)
35.34
831.21
(831.21)
-
1,184.72
(900.00)
320.06
2,199.92
1,879.86
  • The Company G. I. Biotech Private Limited has been struck off from the Registrar of companies (Mumbai) w.e.f. August, 04, 2023

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

140 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

9. B Investment in associate - In equity instruments Unquoted (Fully paid up) (At cost less impairment in value of investments, if any)

Particulars
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
30,12,504 Equityshares ofH10/- each.
Less: Impairment in the value of investment
Aggregate amount of unquoted investments before impairment.
Aggregate amount of impairment in value of investments.
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
475.00
(475.00)
-
475.00
475.00
March 31, 2024
475.00
(475.00)
-
475.00
475.00
# Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)
9.C Investments (non-current)
Particulars
Investment in other entities - In equity instruments:
(i)
Unquoted Investments (all fully paid up)
Investments in equityinstruments at FVTOCI
Shivalik Solid Waste Management Limited
20,000 Equityshares ofH10/- each.
Zela Wellness Private Limited
58,048 Equityshares ofH10/- each.
Less: Impairment in the value of investment
Island Veerchemie Investments
12 Equityshares ofH15,000/- each.
Total aggregate unquoted investments (A)
(ii) Quoted Investment (all fully paid)
Investment in equityinstruments at FVTOCI
Abbott India Limited
139 Equityshares ofH10/- each.
Total aggregatequoted investments (B)
Total Non-current investments (A+B)
Aggregate carrying value of unquoted investments before impairment
Aggregate amount ofquoted investments and market value thereof
Aggregate amount of impairment in value of investments
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
4.11
126.52
(126.52)
-
1.80
5.91
30.70
30.70
36.61
132.43
30.70
126.52
March 31, 2024
4.11
126.52
(126.52)
-
1.80
5.91
37.45
37.45
43.36
132.43
37.45
126.52

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

10. Share application money

10. Share application money
Particulars
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
Less: Impairment in the value of share application money
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
309.86
(309.86)
-
March 31, 2024
309.86
(309.86)
-

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 141

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

11. Loans (Non-current)
Particulars
Loan to employees, - unsecured (consideredgood)
Inter corporate deposit - unsecured (considered doubtful) (Refer Note 42)
Less : Allowance for doubtful inter corporate deposit
Loan to a subsidiary- unsecured (consideredgood) (Refer note 42)
Total*
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
17.50
37.00
(37.00)
698.33
715.83
March 31, 2024
29.54
37.00
(37.00)
708.90
738.44
  • Loan given to Fermenta Biotech USA LLC at 5% p.a. for the period of 140 month for the business purpose.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

As at March 31, 2024
Particulars
Related Parties
Aggregate of loans/advances in nature of loans
- Repayable on demand (A) (Refer Note 21, Note 20 and Note 19)
- Agreement does not specifyanyterms orperiod of repayment (B)
Total
Percentage of loans / advances in the nature of loans to the total loans
(Advance ofH907.14, loan to D.K.Biopharma Private LimitedH455.00 Lakhs,
loan to employeesH40.98 Lakhs, Intercorporate depositH37.00 Lakhs, Loan to a
subsidiary H708.90 andH464.22 Lakhs expenses recoverable from relatedparties.
(Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs)
All Parties Promoters Related Parties
1,408.36 - 501.22
- - -
1408.36* 501.22*
53.89% 19.18%
  • The amounts reported are at gross amounts, without considering provisions made.
As at March 31, 2023 # As at March 31, 2023 # (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars All Parties Promoters Related Parties
Related Parties
Aggregate of loans/advances in nature of loans
- Repayable on demand (A) (Refer Note 21, Note 20 and Note 19) 1,415.75 - 508.61
- Agreement does not specifyanyterms orperiod of repayment (B) - - -
Total 1415.75* 508.61*
Percentage of loans / advances in the nature of loans to the total loans (Advance of
H907.14, loan to D.K.Biopharma Private LimitedH100.00 Lakhs, loan to employees
H20.00 Lakhs, Intercorporate depositH37.00 Lakhs, Loan to a subsidiaryH698.33
andH471.61 Lakhs expenses recoverable from relatedparties.
63.37% 22.77%
  • The amounts reported are at gross amounts, without considering provisions made. # Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Amount Outsatnding at theyear end
Health and Wellness India Private Limited - (Associate) (Refer Note 11)
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC - (whollyowned subsidiary) (Refer Note 11)
Inter Gest GermanyGmbH - (Others)
D.K.Biopharma Private Limited - (Others) (Refer Note 19)
Expenses Recoverable from Related Party(Refer Note 20)
Loan to Employees
Total (Gross)
Provided
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
37.00
698.33
907.14
100.00
471.61
20.00
2,234.08
1,415.75
37.00
708.90
907.14
455.00
464.22
40.98
2,613.24
1,408.35

142 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

11. Loans (Non-current) (Contd.)

(H in Lakhs)

11. Loans (Non-current)(Contd.) (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Maximum amount outstanding during theyear
Health and Wellness India Private Limited - (Associate)
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC - (whollyowned subsidiary)
Inter Gest GermanyGmbH- (Others)
D.K.Biopharma Private Limited - (Others)
Expenses Recoverable from Related Party(Refer Note 20)
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
37.00
698.33
1,107.34
100.00
471.61
37.00
708.90
907.14
455.00
471.61

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

12. Other financial assets (Non-current)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Securitydeposits - unsecured (consideredgood)
Bank deposits with remainingmaturityof more than 12 months
Interest accrued but not due from banks - unsecured (consideredgood)
Others
Total
# Restatedpursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)
Deposits held under lien bybank againstguarantees and other commitments with
Yes Bank Limited
Union Bank of India
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
230.97
1,675.21
52.08
145.99
2,104.25
-
1,674.22
270.96
54.86
5.29
68.20
399.31
0.57
53.36

13. Non-current tax assets (net)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Advance income-tax (net of provision for taxH961.99 lakhs
[ as at March 31, 2023H1,545.37 lakhs] )
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
1,030.96
1,030.96
815.00
815.00

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

14. Other assets (Non-current)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Capital advances
Consideredgood (unsecured)
Considered doubtful (unsecured)
Less: Allowance
Deferred rent
Balance withgovernment authorities – consideredgood
Prepaid expenses
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
104.75
44.21
44.21
(44.21)
-
-
3.75
527.87
636.37
23.32
44.21
44.21
(44.21)
-
11.49
3.75
66.87
105.43

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 143

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

15. Inventories

15. Inventories
Particulars
(At lower of cost and net realisable value)
Raw materials and packing materials (includes stock in transit ofH330.22 Lakhs) (as at
March 31, 2023:H121.25 Lakhs)
Work-in-progress
Finishedgoods
Stores and spares
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
4,605.04
3,416.81
2,178.79
774.19
10,974.83
March 31, 2024
2,687.23
3,358.82
850.50
964.05
7,860.60

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Notes :

  • (i) Inventory write downs are provided considering the nature of inventory, ageing, liquidation plan and net realisable value. Provision for write downs of inventories amounted to H2,229.02 Lakhs. The changes in write downs are recognised as an expense in the Standalone statement of profit and loss amonting to H288.48 Lakhs (as at March 31, 2023 H271.81 Lakhs) and Nil Lakhs consider as Exceptional Items (as at March 31, 2023 H1,940.54 Lakhs).

  • (ii) Inventories have been hypothecated as security against certain bank borrowings, details relating to which has been described in note 24 and note 28.

  • (iii) During the year ended March 31, 2024 H28.03 Lakhs (as at March 31, 2023 H43.81 Lakhs) was recognised as an expense for inventories carried at net realisable value.

16. Trade receivables (unsecured)

16. Trade receivables (unsecured)
Particulars
Undisputed Trade receivables – consideredgood
Undisputed Trade Receivables – which have signifcant
increase in credit risk
Undisputed Trade Receivables – credit impaired
Disputed Trade Receivables – consideredgood
Disputed Trade Receivables – which have signifcant
increase in credit risk
Disputed Trade Receivables – credit Impaired
Less : Allowance for credit impaired Trade Receivables
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Non-current
Current
1,796.01
6,741.20
-
-
1,815.81
429.69
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,611.82
7,170.89
(1,815.81)
(429.69)
1,796.01
6,741.20
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Non-current
Current
1,796.01
6,741.20
-
-
1,815.81
429.69
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,611.82
7,170.89
(1,815.81)
(429.69)
1,796.01
6,741.20
March 31, 2024
Non-current Current Current
1,171.69 7,713.12 6,741.20
- - -
2,315.81 450.94 429.69
- - -
- - -
- - -
3,487.50 8,164.06 7,170.89
(2,315.81) (450.94) (429.69)
1,171.69 7,713.12 6,741.20
Movement in the expected credit loss allowance
Particulars
Balance at the beginning of theyear
Addition duringtheyear
Reversal duringtheyear
Balance at the end of theyear
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
421.31
1,844.39
(20.20)
2,245.50
March 31, 2024
2,245.50
546.01
(24.76)
2,766.75

Trade receivables are carried at amortised cost.

Trade receivables are non-interest bearing and generally on terms of 60-90 Days.

144 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

16. Trade receivables (unsecured) (Contd.)

No trade and other receivables are due from directors or other officer of the Company either severally or jointly with any other person, nor any trade or other receivable are due from firms or private companies respectively in which director is a partner, a director or member (Refer note 42)

For explanation on the credit risk management process (Refer note 57)

Ageing of trade receivables :as at March 31, 2024

Ageing of trade receivables :as at Ma
Particulars
(i) Undisputed Trade receivables –
consideredgood
(ii) Undisputed Trade Receivables –
which have signifcant increase in
credit risk
iii) Undisputed Trade Receivables –
credit impaired
(iv)
Disputed Trade
Receivables

consideredgood
(v) Disputed Trade Receivables – which
have signifcant increase in credit risk
(vi) Disputed Trade Receivables – credit
Impaired
Total
rch 31, 202 4 (Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs)
Outstanding for the following period from due date ofpayments
Not Due Less than
6 months
6 months-1
year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
4,575.62 2,344.69 414.06 1,278.24 272.20 - 8,884.81
- - - - - - -
- - - 68.44 724.67 1,973.64 2,766.75
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - -
4,575.62 2,344.69 414.06 1,346.67 996.87 1,973.64 11,651.56

There are no unbilled receivables as on balance sheet date.

Ageing of trade receivables : as at March 31, 2023 #

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars Outstanding for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments
Not Due Less than 6
months
6 months-1
year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
(i) Undisputed
Trade
receivables

consideredgood
3,992.78 3,263.18 533.31 742.56 5.37 - 8,537.21
(ii) Undisputed Trade Receivables – which
have signifcant increase in credit risk
- - - - - - -
iii) Undisputed Trade Receivables – credit
impaired
- - - 267.43 872.29 1,105.78 2,245.50
(iv) Disputed
Trade
Receivables

consideredgood
- - - - - - -
(iv) Disputed
Trade
Receivables

consideredgood
- - - - - - -
(v) Disputed Trade Receivables – which
have signifcant increase in credit risk
- - - - - - -
(vi) Disputed Trade Receivables – credit
Impaired
- - - - - - -
Total 3,992.78 3,263.18 533.31 1,009.99 877.66 1,105.78 10,782.71

There are no unbilled receivables as on balance sheet date.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 145

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

17. Cash and cash equivalents

(H in Lakhs)

17. Cash and cash equivalents (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Balances with banks
In current accounts
In deposit accounts with original maturityfor less than 3 months
Cash on hand
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
3,190.63
12.52
4.38
3,207.53
1,854.56
-
8.87
1,863.43

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

18. Bank balances other than cash and cash equivalents

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Balances with banks
In Unpaid Dividend accounts
In escrow account
In deposit accounts with original maturity for more than 3 months but less than
12 months
Total*
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
15.21
38.38
2,250.16
2,303.75
16.98
0.01
3,783.53
3,800.52

*This includes deposits held under lien by bank against guarantees and other commitments amounting to H Nil (as at March 31, 2023: H65.51 Lakhs)

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

19. Loans (Current)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Unsecured, consideredgood
Inter corporate deposit
D. K. Biopharma Private Limited
Loans to employees
Total*
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
100.00
2.50
102.50
455.00
11.43
466.43

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

  • The inter-corporate deposits amountingto H455.00 Lakhs were granted to the entity @ 9% p. a. for the purpose of its business

20. Other financial assets (Current)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Interest accrued but not due
On fxed deposits from banks
On Inter corporate deposits
Expenses recoverable from relatedparties
Less: Allowance for doubtful recoverable
Interest receivable from a subsidiary
Others
Unsecured, consideredgood
Total*
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
16.80
2.79
471.61
(464.22)
44.11
14.08
85.17
44.19
27.60
464.22
(464.22)
45.16
15.98
132.93
  • Expenses recoverable are incurred on behalf of subsidiary Fermenta Biotech Gmbh.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

146 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

21. Other current assets

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Advance for supplyofgoods and services
Consideredgood
Considered doubtful
Less: Allowance for doubtful advances
Deferred Assets
Prepaid expenses
Travel advances to employees
Export incentive receivables
Consideredgood
Balances withgovernment authorities
Others
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
101.82
913.42
(913.42)
101.82
46.26
220.49
40.82
15.47
847.28
44.65
1,316.79
169.04
913.42
(913.42)
169.04
28.41
485.72
12.70
22.10
830.12
122.66
1,670.75

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Movement in the Allowance for doubtful advances and export incentive receivables.

Movement in the Allowance for doubtful advances and export incentive rec
Particulars
Balance at the beginningof theyear
Addition duringtheyear
Written of duringtheyear
Reversal duringtheyear
Balance at the end of theyear
eivables. (Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
9.52
907.14
-
(3.24)
913.42
March 31, 2024
913.42
-
-
-
913.42

22. Equity share capital

22. Equity share capital
Particulars
Authorised
6,35,00,000 Equity shares ofH5/- each (as at March 31, 2023 - 4,98,40,000 Equity shares
ofH5/- each)
1,60,000 Unclassifed shares ofH5/- each (as at March 31, 2023 - 1,60,000 Unclassifed
shares ofH5/- each)
Issued, subscribed and fully paid-up
2,94,30,987 Equity shares ofH5/- each (as at March 31, 2023 - 2,94,30,987 Equity shares
ofH5/- each)
Less: 5,56,880 Equity shares held by FBL ESOP Trust (as at March 31, 2023 - 5,73,684
Equityshares held byFBL ESOP Trust) [Refer note (d) below]
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
2,492.00
8.00
2,500.00
1,471.55
(28.68)
1,442.87
March 31, 2024
3,175.00
8.00
3,183.00
1,471.55
(27.84)
1,443.71

(a) Reconciliation of shares outstanding at the beginning and at the end of the year

Particulars
At the beginningof theyear
Issued duringtheyear
At the end of theyear
March 31, 2024
No of Equity
Shares
JIn Lakhs
2,88,57,303
1,442.87
16,804
0.84
2,88,74,107
1,443.71
March 31, 2024
No of Equity
Shares
JIn Lakhs
2,88,57,303
1,442.87
16,804
0.84
2,88,74,107
1,443.71
(Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
No of Equity
Shares
JIn Lakhs No of Equity
Shares
JIn Lakhs
2,88,57,303 1,442.87 2,88,47,322 1,442.37
16,804 0.84 9,981 0.50
2,88,74,107 1,443.71 2,88,57,303 1,442.87

Annual Report 2023-24 | 147

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

22. Equity share capital (Contd.)

(b) Details of shareholders holding more than 5% equity shares in the Company

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
DVK Investments Private Limited, the Holding Company
(Refer note 70)
Mr. Krishna Datla
Mr.Satish Varma
Mrs. Anupama Datla Desai
Mrs. Preeti Thakkar
March 31, 2024
No. of Equity
Shares
% Holding
-
-
1,00,10,225
34.01%
34,53,325
11.73%
25,61,265
8.70%
22,40,376
7.61%
March 31, 2023 # March 31, 2023 #
No. of Equity
Shares
No. of Equity
Shares
% Holding
- 1,50,75,318 51.22%
1,00,10,225 24,61,074 8.36%
34,53,325 23,160 0.08%
25,61,265 5,13,792 1.75%
22,40,376 1,91,847 0.65%

(c) Rights, preferences and restrictions

The Company has issued only one class of equity shares having par value of H5/- per share (March 31, 2023; - H5/- per share). Each holder of equity shares is entitled to one vote per share. The Company declares and pays the dividend in Indian rupees. The dividend, if any, proposed by the Board of Directors is subject to shareholders’ approval in the ensuing Annual General Meeting, except in case of interim dividend.

During the year, the Board of directors have declared dividend of 25% (H1.25 per equity share of H5/- each) for the financial year 2023-24. (Refer note 58)

During the previous year, the Board of directors had declared an final dividend of 25% (H1.25 per equity share of H5/- each) for the financial year 2022-23 which has been paid during the year 2023-24. (Refer note 58)

In the event of liquidation of the Company, the holders of equity shares will be entitled to receive remaining assets of the Company, after distribution of all preferential amounts. The distribution will be in proportion to the number of equity shares held by the shareholder.

(d) FBL ESOP Trust :

The Company had formulated Employee Stock Option Scheme namely Fermenta Biotech Limited - Employee Stock Option 2019 (ESOP 2019) in terms of the Scheme of amalgamation of erstwhile Fermenta Biotech Limited with the Company. The equity shares are held by FBL ESOP Trust (Refer note 60).

Particulars
Outstandingat the beginningof theyear
Issue of sharespursuant to exercise of Employee Stock Option
Outstandingat the end of theyear
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
No. of Equity Shares
5,83,665
(9,981)
5,73,684
March 31, 2024
No. of Equity Shares
5,73,684
(16,804)
5,56,880

(e) Details of shareholders holding more than 5% equity shares in the Company

Particulars
DVK Investments Private Limited, the
HoldingCompany (Refer note 70)
Mr. Krishna Datla
Mr.Satish Varma
Mrs. Anupama Datla Desai
Mrs. Preeti Thakkar
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
% Change
during
the year#
No. of
Equity Shares
% Holding
1,50,75,318
51.22%
-51.22%
24,61,074
8.36%
25.65%
23,160
0.08%
11.65%
5,13,792
1.75%
6.96%
1,91,847
0.65%
6.96%
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
% Change
during
the year#
No. of
Equity Shares
% Holding
1,50,75,318
51.22%
-51.22%
24,61,074
8.36%
25.65%
23,160
0.08%
11.65%
5,13,792
1.75%
6.96%
1,91,847
0.65%
6.96%
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
% Change
during
the year#
No. of
Equity Shares
% Holding
1,50,75,318
51.22%
-51.22%
24,61,074
8.36%
25.65%
23,160
0.08%
11.65%
5,13,792
1.75%
6.96%
1,91,847
0.65%
6.96%
March 31, 2024 % Change
during
the year#
No. of
Equity Shares
% Holding % Holding
- - 51.22% -51.22%
1,00,10,225 34.01% 8.36% 25.65%
34,53,325 11.73% 0.08% 11.65%
25,61,265 8.70% 1.75% 6.96%
22,40,376 7.61% 0.65% 6.96%

Change in shareholding is pursuant to merger (Refer note 70)

148 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

23. Other equity
(Hin Lakhs)
Total 38,154.82 205.04 (5,700.32) - 7.85 (419.97) (101.85) 17.26 32,162.83 (1,874.33) - 13.24 (360.93) 19.06 19.03 29,978.90 # Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)
Items of other
comprehensive
income
Equity
instruments
through OCI
26.29 - - - - - - 6.10 32.39 - - - - - 6.75 39.14
Reserves and Surplus Retained
earnings
35,071.57 940.37 (5,700.32) - - (419.97) - 11.16 29,902.81 (1,874.33) - - (360.93) - 12.28 27,679.83
Share options
outstanding
account
1,469.19 - - (42.09) - - (101.85) - 1,325.25 - (70.86) - - 19.06 - 1,273.45
General
reserve
3,545.80 196.30 - - - - - - 3,742.10 - - - - - - 3,742.10
Securities
premium
- 102.85 - 42.09 7.85 - - - 152.79 - 70.86 13.24 - - - 236.89
Capital
reserve
1,140.00 - - - - - - - 1,140.00 - - - - - - 1,140.00
Capital reserve
pursuant to
amalgamation
1,074.20 (1,034.48) - - - - - - 39.72 - - - - - - 39.72
Capital
redemption
reserve
70.00 - - - - - - - 70.00 - - - - - - 70.00
Unrealised
(loss) on
dilution
(4,242.23) - - - - - - - (4,242.23) - - - - - - (4,242.23)
Particulars Balance as at April 01, 2022 Addition due to scheme of
amalgamation (Refer note 70)
Loss for the year Transfer to equity share capital
on exercise of options
Premium on issue of equity
share on stock option exercise
Payment of dividend (Gross) Recognition of share based
payments (Gain)
Other comprehensive income
for the year
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # Loss for the year Transfer to equity share capital
on exercise of options
Premium on issue of equity
share on stock option exercise
Payment of dividend (Gross) Recognition of share based
payments
Other comprehensive income
for the year
Balance as at March 31, 2024

Annual Report 2023-24 | 149

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

23. Other equity (Contd.)

Description of nature and purpose of each reserve

Unrealised gain/(loss) on dilution: This reserve represents unrealised gain/(loss) due to change in the shareholdings in a subsidiary.

Capital redemption reserve : This reserve was created for redemption of preference shares of H70.00 lakhs in the financial year 2010-2011.

Capital reserve pursuant to amalgamation : Reserve created pursuant to amalgamation of a 2 subsidiaries and its Holding.

Capital reserve: Capital reserve was created in the financial years 1995-96 and 1996-97 pursuant to sale of the Company's brands for which non compete fees were received and treated as a capital receipt.

General reserve: Under the erstwhile Companies Act 1956, general reserve was created through an annual transfer of net income at a specified percentage in accordance with applicable regulations. The purpose of these transfers was to ensure that if a dividend distribution in a given year is more than 10% of the paid-up capital of the Company for that year, then the total dividend distribution is less than the total distributable results for that year. Consequent to introduction of Companies Act 2013, the requirement to mandatorily transfer a specified percentage of the net profit to general reserve has been withdrawn. However, the amount previously transferred to the general reserve can be utilised only in accordance with the specific requirements of Companies Act, 2013.

Securities premium: The amount received in excess of face value of the equity shares is recognised in securities premium. This reserve is utilised in accordance with the specific provisions of the Companies Act 2013.

Share options outstanding account : The fair value of the equity settled share based payment transactions is recognised to share options outstanding account.

Retained earnings: Retained earnings are the profits/(loss) that the company has earned/incurred till date, less any transfers to general reserve, dividends or other distributions paid to shareholders. Retained earnings include re-measurement loss / (gain) on defined benefit plans, net of taxes that will not be reclassified to Statement of Profit and Loss.

Equity instruments through other comprehensive income: This represents the cumulative gains / losses arising on the revaluation of equity instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income, under an irrevocable option, net of amounts reclassified to retained earnings when such assets are disposed off.

24 Borrowings
Particulars
Secured
Term Loans
From Banks
For Kullu facility[Refer note below (a)]
For Dahejfacility[Refer note below (b)]
For Dahejfacility[Refer note below (c)]
For Dahejfacility[Refer note below (d)]
For Vehicles [Refer note below (e)]
For WCTL [Refer note below (f)]
For Dahejfacility[Refer note below (g)]
From others
For business operations [Refer note below (h)]
Amount disclosed under the head "Borrowings (Current)"
(Refer note 28)
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Non-current
Current
2,613.15
653.29
-
431.28
833.69
561.17
87.83
666.28
390.78
127.07
1,558.33
141.67
135.72
27.14
2,734.46
572.08
8,353.96
3,179.98
-
(3,179.98)
8,353.96
-
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Non-current
Current
2,613.15
653.29
-
431.28
833.69
561.17
87.83
666.28
390.78
127.07
1,558.33
141.67
135.72
27.14
2,734.46
572.08
8,353.96
3,179.98
-
(3,179.98)
8,353.96
-
March 31, 2024
Non-current Current Current
1,931.51 681.71 653.29
- - 431.28
275.86 559.50 561.17
- 91.61 666.28
277.89 135.50 127.07
1,168.19 425.00 141.67
108.58 27.14 27.14
497.20 318.82 572.08
4,259.23 2,239.28 3,179.98
- (2,239.28) (3,179.98)
4,259.23 - -

150 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

24. Borrowings (Contd.)

Notes

  • a) Term loan is taken from HDFC Bank Limited for financing the capital expenditure for Premix Plant to be set up at Kullu with interest rate EURIBOR plus 3.0% (Average effective rate 6.38%), (previous year effective rate is 4.36%) repayable in 60 equal monthly instalments starting from Feb-2023. The said loan is secured by first pari-passu charge on the project , first pari pasu charge on property, plant and equipment at Dahej and Kullu except plant 3 at Dahej which is exclusively mortgaged with Yes Bank Limited and Union Bank of India, and second pari passu charge on entire current assets along with other banks.

  • b) Term loan (External Commercial Borrowing) is taken from Yes Bank Limited for financing the capital expenditure for new project at Dahej SEZ with interest rate EURIBOR plus 3.5% (Average effective rate 7.08 %), (previous year effective rate is 6.38%) repayable in 48 equal monthly instalments starting from February 2020. The said ECB loan was secured by way of first pari-passu charge on the project financed along with Union Bank of India, first pari-passu charge along with Union Bank of India and HDFC Bank Limited on property, plant and equipment at Kullu and Dahej, except Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu which is exclusively mortgaged with HDFC Bank Limited , which is not to be shared with HDFC Bank Limited. The said loan was additionally secured by way of first pari passu charge along with Union Bank of India and HDFC Bank Limited on entire unencumbered movable fixed assets (excluding vehicles) and second pari passu charge on entire current assets. The entire loan has been repaid during the financial year.

  • c) Term loan is taken from HDFC Bank Limited for financing the capital expenditure for Plant 4 at Dahej SEZ with interest rate EURIBOR plus 3.9% (effective rate 3.9%), (previous year effective rate is 3.9%) repayable in 16 equal quarterly instalments starting from July 2021. The said loan is secured by first pari-passu charge on the project , first pari pasu charge on property, plant and equipment at Dahej and Kullu except plant 3 at Dahej which is exclusively mortgaged with Yes Bank Limited and Union Bank of India, and second pari passu charge on entire current assets along with other banks. Effective rate is 3.9% on account of Interest rate swap agreement entered by the company.

  • d) Term loan (Foreign Currency Term Loan and INR Term Loan) is taken from Union Bank of India for financing the capital expenditure for Cholesterol project at Dahej SEZ with interest rate EURIBOR plus 3.10% (effective rate 6.13%) (previous year effective rate is 5.50%) for FCTL, MCLR + 2% (effective rate 10.67% to 11.60%) (previous year effective rate is 9.96% to 10.34%) for Rupee Term Loan repayable in 48 equal monthly instalments starting from April 2020. The said loan is secured by way of first pari-passu charge on the project financed along with Yes Bank Limited not to be shared with HDFC Bank Limited, first pari-passu charge along with Yes Bank Limited and HDFC Bank Limited on property, plant and equipment at Kullu and Dahej, except Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu which is exclusively mortgaged with HDFC Bank Limited. The said loan is additionally secured by way of first pari passu charge along with Yes Bank and HDFC bank on entire unencumbered movable fixed assets (excluding vehicles) and second pari passu charge on entire current assets. Foreign Currency Term Loan has been repaid during the period.

  • e) Vehicle loans taken from HDFC Bank Limited against hypothecation of the vehicles purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Aug-2020, to Sep-2021 with average interest rates in the range of 7.65% to 8.45%, (previous year at 7.65% to 8.20% ). The charge for first loan is yet to be created.

Vehicle loans taken from the Bank of Baroda Limited against hypothecation of the vehicle purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Jan-2021 to May-2021 with average interest rates in the range of 9.65% to 9.85%, (previous year at 9.85%).

Vehicle loan is taken from the Union Bank of India against hypothecation of the vehicle purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Jan-2022 to Oct-2022 with average interest rates in the range of 9.17% to 10.09% (previous year in the range of 9.05% to 9.90%)

Vehicle loan is taken from the Yes Bank of India against hypothecation of the vehicle purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Jun-2023 with average interest rates 9.17%, (previous year in the range of NIL)"

  • f) Working Capital Term Loan is taken from Union Bank of India for business purpose with interest rate 1 Year MCLR+0.60% effective rate 9.41% (previous year effective rate is 9.18%) repayable in 48 equal monthly instalments starting from Dec -23. The said loan is secured by first pari-passu charge on hypothecation of stocks, book debts and and by equitable mortgage with Yes Bank limited and HDFC Bank Limited of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu and all moveable property, plant and equipments of the Company and second charge on the existing securities of the company except plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu.

  • g) Term loan is taken from HDFC Bank Limited for financing the capital expenditure at Dahej SEZ with average interest rate 9.42% ( Previous year effective rate is 7.98%) repayable in 28 equal quarterly instalments starting from Apr 2022. The said loan is secured by first pari-passu charge on the project , first pari pasu charge on property, plant and equipment at Dahej and Kullu except plant 3 at Dahej which is

Annual Report 2023-24 | 151

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

24. Borrowings (Contd.)

exclusively Mortgaged with Yes Bank Limited and Union Bank of India, and second pari passu charge on entire current assets along with other banks.

  • h) Loan against property and loan by way of discounting of lease rental of Thane One Building consisting of 1[st] floor to 13[th] floor from Bajaj Finance Limited, the effective rate for the current year in the range of 11.20% to 11.45% (previous year effective rate in the range of 8.00% to 11.20%) The said loan is secured by hypothecation of the lease agreements of Thane One (consisting of 1[st] floor to 13[th] floor) and equitable mortgage of the premises at Ceejay House. Further these loans have been guaranteed by the personal guarantee of the Executive Vice Chairman of the Company. In the current year the hypothecation of Thane One (consisting of 1[st] floor to 13[th] floor) was removed and only the mortgage of the premises at Ceejay House exist.

  • Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

25. Other financial liabilities (Non current)

25. Other fnancial liabilities (Non current)
Particulars
Deposits from tenants
Total
# Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)
26. Provisions (Non-current)
Particulars
Provisions for employee benefts:
Gratuity[Refer note 47 (c)]
Compensated absences
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
108.38
108.38
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
214.28
248.18
462.46
March 31, 2024
353.84
353.84
March 31, 2024
256.22
279.24
535.46

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

27. Other liabilities (Non current)

(H in Lakhs)

27. Other liabilities (Non current) (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Deferred Revenue
Deposits from Developer (Refer note 62)
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
894.40
1,500.00
2,394.40
1,846.74
1,397.19
3,243.93

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

28. Borrowings (Current)

28. Borrowings (Current)
Particulars
Loans repayable on demand
From banks (Secured)
Cash credit and Bank overdraft
Packingcredit and Bill discounting
Short term workingcapital loan
From banks (Secured)
Current maturities of longterm debts (Refer note 24)
From others (Secured)
For business operations (Refer note 24)
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,753.59
3,090.34
5,301.71
2,607.90
572.08
13,325.62
March 31, 2024
507.74
3,226.94
2,999.53
1,920.46
318.82
8,973.49

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

152 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

28. Borrowings (Current) (Contd.)

Packing credit, cash credit Loan from Union Bank of India, are secured by first pari-passu charge on hypothecation of stocks, book debts and and by equitable mortgage with Yes Bank limited and HDFC Bank Limited of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu and all moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company except vehicles and Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu. The average interest rate for packing credit in foreign currency is 6.35% to % 7.39% (EURO PCFC - EURIBOR+3.10%, USD PCFC - 6M LIBOR+3.10%) and average interest rate for cash credit is 11.87 %.

Packing credit and cash credit Loan from Yes Bank Limited is secured by first pari-passu charge on current assets of the Company and by equitable mortgage of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu with Union Bank of India and HDFC Bank Limited and all moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company except vehicles and Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu. The average interest rate for packing credit in foreign currency is 5.50%. and average interest rate for cash credit is 1 YR MCLR+0.95 (from 10.40% to 11.50%)

Packing credit Loan from HDFC Bank Limited is secured by first pari-passu charge on current assets, exclusive charge on assets of plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu, moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company and equitable mortgage of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu with Union Bank of India and Yes Bank Limited (excluding the plant and building financed through term loan from Union Bank of India and Yes Bank Limited).The average interest rate for packing credit in foreign currency is 6.50% .

Short term working capital loan includes Working Capital Demand Loan from Yes Bank Limited secured by first pari-passu charge on current assets of the Company and by equitable mortgage of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu with Union Bank of India and HDFC Bank Limited and all moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company except vehicles and Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu. It also includes Working Capital Demand Loan from HDFC Bank Limited secured by first pari-passu charge on current assets of the Company and by equitable mortgage of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu with Union Bank of India and Yes Bank Limited and all moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company except vehicles and Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu and short term loans taken from Union Bank of India are secured against the lien of fixed deposits. The average interest rate for short term working capital loan from Union Bank is in the range of 5.77% to 6.77% and Working Capital Demand Loan from Yes Bank is 8.90% and Working Capital Demand Loan from HDFC Bank Limited 8.90% to 9.05%

29. Trade payables (Current)

29. Trade payables (Current)
Particulars
Total outstanding dues of micro and small enterprises (Refer note 52)
Total outstanding dues of creditors other than micro and small enterprises
Disputed dues of micro and small enterprises
Disputed dues of creditors other than other than micro and small enterprises
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
280.47
4,910.38
-
-
5,190.85
March 31, 2024
237.63
5,065.49
-
-
5,303.12
Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 2024
Particulars
Unbilled
Not due
Dues of MSME
-
-
Dues of creditors other than MSME
1,873.74
1,422.44
Disputed dues of MSME
-
-
Disputed dues of creditors other than
MSME
-
-
Total
1,873.74
1,422.44
Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 2024
Particulars
Unbilled
Not due
Dues of MSME
-
-
Dues of creditors other than MSME
1,873.74
1,422.44
Disputed dues of MSME
-
-
Disputed dues of creditors other than
MSME
-
-
Total
1,873.74
1,422.44
Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 2024
Particulars
Unbilled
Not due
Dues of MSME
-
-
Dues of creditors other than MSME
1,873.74
1,422.44
Disputed dues of MSME
-
-
Disputed dues of creditors other than
MSME
-
-
Total
1,873.74
1,422.44
(Hin Lakhs)
Unbilled Not due Outstanding for the following period from due
date of payments
Total
Less than
1 year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3 years
- - 220.61 16.91 0.11 - 237.63
1,873.74 1,422.44 1,649.94 91.10 10.07 18.20 5,065.49
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - -
1,873.74 1,422.44 1,870.55 108.01 10.18 18.20 5,303.12

Annual Report 2023-24 | 153

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

29. Trade payables (Current) (Contd.)

Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 2023 #

Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 202 Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 202 3 # (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Unbilled Not due Outstanding for the following period from due
date ofpayments
Total
Less than
1year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Dues of MSME - 3.71 276.00 0.76 - - 280.47
Dues of creditors other thanMSME 885.82 754.25 3,146.76 25.91 25.88 71.76 4,910.38
Disputed dues of MSME - - - - - - -
Disputed dues of creditors other than
MSME
- - - - - - -
Total 885.79 757.96 3,533.85 26.67 25.88 71.76 5,190.85

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

30. Other financial liabilities (Current)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Deposits from tenants
Interest accrued but not due on borrowings
Payable to employees / directors
Liabilityfor capital expenditure
Derivatives not designated as hedge.
Unclaimed dividend
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
268.71
49.81
136.58
373.82
64.78
15.21
908.91
0.70
51.57
596.32
55.36
42.51
16.98
763.44

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

31. Other current liabilities

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Advances from customers
Statutorydues
Deferred rent
Others
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
1,512.93
136.63
17.84
-
1,667.40
601.78
108.36
18.31
101.01
829.46

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

32. Provisions (Current)

32. Provisions (Current)
Particulars
Provisions for employee beneft:
Compensated absences
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
58.14
58.14
March 31, 2024
59.43
59.43

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

154 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

33. Current tax liabilities (net)

33. Current tax liabilities (net)
Particulars
Provision for income tax (net of advance tax for taxH2,081.38 lakhs
[as at March 31, 2023H2,072.42 lakhs])
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
32.53
32.53
March 31, 2024
34.13
34.13

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

34. Revenue from operations (Refer Note 71)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Revenue from contracts with customers
Rent Income (Refer Note 59)
Amortised deferred rent (Refer Note 59)
Service income (infrastructure support services to tenants) (Refer Note 59)
Sale of services
Sale of Investmentproperty(net) (Refer Note 59)
Other operatingrevenues
Export incentive
Scrapsales
Others
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
26,273.84
1,150.98
52.80
322.25
230.20
4,772.82
62.45
26.11
-
32,891.45
22,944.49
430.97
24.65
432.28
268.89
6,387.82
83.78
19.60
116.56
30,709.04

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

35. Other income

35. Other income
Particulars
Interest income on fnancial assets carried at amortised cost:
Bank deposits
Other fnancial assets
Dividend income on investment in equity instruments designated as at fair value
through other comprehensive income
Foreign exchangegain (net)
Netgain on fair value changes of derivatives at FVTPL
Insurance claims
Liabilities /provisions no longer required written back:
From Trade receivables
From Others
Miscellaneous income
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
145.51
94.17
239.68
90.63
210.19
-
1.29
20.19
282.72
302.91
1.51
846.21
March 31, 2024
214.11
179.08
393.19
90.36
124.42
22.27
5.37
25.63
140.92
166.55
13.26
815.42

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 155

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

36. Cost of materials consumed

36. Cost of materials consumed
Particulars
Inventories of raw materials /packingmaterials at the beginningof theyear
Add : Purchases
Less : Inventories of raw materials /packingmaterials at the end of theyear
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
4,616.06
10,037.54
4,605.04
10,048.56
March 31, 2024
4,605.04
6,460.71
2,687.23
8,378.52

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

37. Changes in inventories of finished goods, stock-in-trade and work-in-progress

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Inventories at the end of theyear
Work-in-progress
Finishedgoods
Inventories at the beginning of theyear
Work-in-progress
Finishedgoods
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
3,416.81
2,178.79
5,595.60
6,065.47
1,258.65
7,324.12
1,728.52
3,358.82
850.50
4,209.32
3,416.81
2,178.79
5,595.60
1,386.28

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

38. Employee benefits expense

(H in Lakhs)

38. Employee benefts expense (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Salaries and wages
Contribution toprovident and other funds [Refer Note 47]
Gratuityexpense [Refer Note 47(d)]
Share basedpayments to employees [Refer Note 60]
Staf welfare expenses
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
4,611.28
289.83
75.19
(101.85)
506.41
5,380.86
4,595.69
262.14
75.35
19.06
441.01
5,393.25

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

39. Finance costs

(H in Lakhs)

39. Finance costs (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Interest on
Term loans (Refer Note 64)
Loans repayable on demand
Liabilities carried at amortised cost (Unwindingof interest)
Lease liabilities (Refer Note 46)
Others
Other borrowingcosts
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
1,075.04
716.97
54.52
32.08
22.56
179.04
2,080.20
530.78
751.26
138.43
36.76
137.66
110.32
1,705.21

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

156 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

40. Depreciation and amortisation expense

40. Depreciation and amortisation expense
Particulars
Depreciation onproperty,plant and equipment (Refer Note 3)
Depreciation on right-of-use assets (Refer Note 5)
Depreciation of investmentproperty(Refer Note 6)
Amortisation of intangible assets (Refer Note 7)
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,748.08
131.63
259.95
308.83
2,448.50
March 31, 2024
1,902.90
130.29
18.08
318.28
2,369.55

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

41. Other expenses
Particulars
Stores and spareparts consumed
Processingcharges
GST other than recovered on sales
Contract labour charges
Power and fuel
Repairs and maintenance
Buildings
Plant and machinery
Others
Water charges
Advertisingand salespromotion
Freight and forwardingcharges
Commission on sales
Rent (includinglease rentals)
Insurance
Rates and taxes
Allowance for doubtful debts (net)
Allowance for doubtful advances
Trade receivable loans and advances written of
Impairment in the value of non-current investment
Travellingand conveyance
Professional and legal fees
Payment to auditors (Refer Note 44)
Postage and telephone
Printingand stationery
Net loss on fair value changes of derivatives at FVTPL
SecurityExpenses
Staf recruitment expenses
Bank charges
Brokerage Charges
Analytical Charges
Loss on sale/ write of,ofproperty, plant and equipment
Corporate social responsibilityexpenses (Refer Note 51)
Directors sittingfees
Miscellaneous expenses
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,024.08
1,102.03
115.54
658.61
1,786.17
73.06
219.61
1,334.38
37.78
291.64
506.00
102.31
37.19
307.49
650.10
28.57
23.05
478.34
0.88
578.60
767.55
49.11
45.30
77.08
41.21
91.38
31.44
55.22
99.24
81.88
31.48
112.95
40.70
137.09
11,017.06
March 31, 2024
1,278.78
789.63
46.91
629.61
1,940.21
380.62
220.28
1,729.81
37.56
264.49
396.26
47.17
36.38
262.83
310.17
160.64
-
24.95
-
479.34
939.14
50.70
36.17
68.07
-
90.83
39.60
34.78
282.13
49.31
32.55
82.62
46.50
285.99
11,074.03

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 157

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

42. Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24

  • A) Names of the related parties and description of relationships

(H in Lakhs)

a) Particulars Country of Incorporation
India
India
Germany
United Kingdom
United States of America
United States of America
India
Proportion of ownership interest as at
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
Note 1
Note 1
Note 1
Note 1
100%
100%
100%
100%
52%
52%
100%
100%
Note 2
100%
Proportion of ownership interest as at
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
Note 1
Note 1
Note 1
Note 1
100%
100%
100%
100%
52%
52%
100%
100%
Note 2
100%
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
Holding Company:
DVK Investments Private Limited Note 1 Note 1
Subsidiaries:
Aegean Properties Limited Note 1 Note 1
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh 100% 100%
Fermenta Biotech (UK) Limited 100% 100%
Fermenta USA LLC 52% 52%
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC 100% 100%
G.I. Biotech Pvt Limited (w.e.f. November 26, 2022) Note 2 100%

Note:

  • 1) Pursuant to NCLT Order dated May 8, 2023 regarding Composite Scheme of Amalgamation and Arrangement, the Company’s Holding company, DVK Investments Private Limited (Transferor Company 1) and the Company’s subsidiary, Aegean Properties Limited (Transferor Company 2) have been merged with the Company (Refer Note 70)

  • 2) The Company G. I. Biotech Private Limited has been struck off from the Registrar of companies (Mumbai) w.e.f. August, 04, 2023

  • Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

b) Key Management Personnel

Key Management Personnel
Name of Directors and Key Management Personnel Designation
Mr. Krishna Datla Executive Vice-Chairman
Mr. Satish Varma Executive Director
Mr. SanjayBuch *(upto March 31, 2024) Non-Executive Director and Chairman
Mrs. Rajeshwari Datla (also relative of the Executive Vice-Chairman) Non-Executive Director
Mrs. Anupama Datla Desai (also relative of the Executive Vice-Chairman) Executive Director
Dr. Gopakumar Nair # Non-Executive Director
Mr. Vinayak Hajare *(upto March 31, 2024) Non-Executive Director
Mrs. Rajashri Ojha Non-Executive Director
Mr. Pramod Kasat Non-Executive Director
Mr. PradeepChandan**(w.e.f . February12, 2024) Non-Executive Director and Chairman
Mr. Prashant Nagre ManagingDirector
Mr. Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Ofcer
Mr. Srikant N Sharma CompanySecretary

*Mr. Sanjay Buch ceased to be Non - Executive Independent Director and Chairman, and Mr. Vinayak Hajare ceased to be Non-Executive Independent Director from April 01, 2024, due to retirement

**Appointed as Independent Director w.e.f. February 12, 2024 and as Chairman w.e.f. April 01, 2024

Ceased to be Non-Executive Independent Director w.e.f. May 17, 2024, due to retirement

c) Associate

Health and Wellness India Private Limited

  • d) Enterprises under significant influence of key management personnel or their relatives:

Magnolia FNB Private Limited (under the process of strike off)

Dupen Laboratories Private Limited

Lacto Cosmetics (Vapi) Private limited

Silk Road Communications Private Limited.

158 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

42. Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24 (Contd.)

B) Related party transactions:

Sr.
No.
Particulars Holding
Company
Subsidiaries Key
management
personnel*
Enterprise
signifcantly
infuenced by KMP
or their relatives
Joint
ventures /
associates
1 Remuneration to Directors and Key
**Management Personnel ***
Mr. Krishna Datla - - 204.89 - -
(-) (-) (227.60) (-) (-)
Mr. Satish Varma - - 149.17 - -
(-) (-) (162.95) (-) (-)
Ms. Anupama Datla Desai - - 105.75 - -
(-) (-) (117.06) (-) (-)
Mr. Prashant Nagre - - 158.44 (-) (-)
(-) (-) (174.75) (-) (-)
Mr. Sumesh Gandhi - - 87.27 - (-)
(-) (-) (95.42) (-) (-)
Mr. Srikant N Sharma - - 60.70 - -
(-) (-) (65.4) (-) (-)
2 Directors sitting fees
Mr. Sanjay Buch - - 8.60 - -
(-) (-) (8.20) (-) (-)
Mr. Gopakumar Nair - - 8.30 - -
(-) (-) (7.80) (-) (-)
Mrs. Rajeshwari Datla - - 8.00 - -
(-) (-) (7.50) (-) (-)
Mr. Vinayak Hajare - - 8.60 - -
(-) (-) (8.20) (-) (-)
Mrs. Rajashri Ojha - - 6.00 - -
(-) (-) (5.00) (-) (-)
Mr. Pramod Kasat 6.00
(-) (-) (4.00) (-) (-)
Mr. Pradeep Chandan - - 1.00 - -
(-) (-) (-) (-) (-)
3 Rent and service income
Magnolia FNB Private Limited. - - - 0.18 -
(-) (-) (-) (0.30) (-)
Silk Road Communications Private Limited. - - - 1.35
(-) (-) (-) (1.35) (-)
4 Expenditure incurred on behalf of
relatedparties
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh - - - - -
(-) (1.47) (-) (-) (-)
5 Sale ofproducts
Dupen Laboratories Private Limited - - - 43.76 -
(-) (-) (-) (29.37) (-)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 159

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

42. Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24 (Contd.)

Sr.
No.
Particulars Holding
Company
Subsidiaries Key
management
personnel*
Enterprise
signifcantly
infuenced by KMP
or their relatives
Joint
ventures /
associates
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh - - - - -
(-) (706.54) (-) (-) (-)
Fermenta USA LLC - 636.49 - - -
(-) (1,347.35) (-) (-) (-)
6 Interest on loangiven
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC - 35.88 - - -
(-) (36.14) (-) (-) (-)
7 Investment made
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh - - - - -
(-) (811.88) (-) (-) (-)
G.I. Biotech Pvt. Limited - - - - -
(-) (0.38) (-) (-) (-)
8 Loansgiven
Mr. Srikant N Sharma (-) (-) 10.00 (-) (-)
(-) (-) (-) (-) (-)
9 Provision for impairment in investment
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh - - - - -
(-) (831.21) (-) (-) (-)
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC - 900.00 - - -
(-) (-) (-) (-) (-)
G.I. Biotech Pvt. Limited - - - - -
(-) (0.88) (-) (-) (-)
10 Provision for doubtful trade receivable
and expenditure incurred on behalf of
relatedparties
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh - - - - -
(-) (2,280.03) (-) (-) (-)

(Figures in brackets are the corresponding figures in respect of the previous year.)

  • The remuneration to the key managerial personnel does not include the provisions made for gratuity and leave benefits, as they are determined on an actuarial basis for the company as a whole.

C) Balance outstanding as at the end of the year :

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
a. Tradepayables and reimbursementpayables
Subsidiary
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh
b. Trade receivables / other and reimbursement receivables (Gross)
Subsidiary
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh
Fermenta USA LLC
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
20.22 20.04
4076.04 4076.04
1048.83 1012.60
45.16 51.50

160 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

42. Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24 (Contd.)


Particulars
Enterprises under signifcant infuence of key management personnel or
their relatives:
Dupen Laboratories Pvt Ltd
Silk Road Communications Private Limited.
c. Allowance for doubtful debts/advances
Associate
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
Subsidiary
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh
d. Provision for diminution in value of investments
Associate
Health and Wellness India Private Limited (includingshare application money)
Subsidiary
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh
Fermenta Biotech (UK) Limited
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC
G.I. Biotech Pvt. Limited
e. Inter corporate deposits
Associate
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
f.
Loangiven
Subsidiary
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC
Key managementpersonnel
Mr. Srikant N Sharma
g.
Investments (Subsidiary)
Fermenta Biotech Gmbh
Fermenta Biotech (UK) Limited
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC
G.I. Biotech Pvt. Limited
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
8.66
0.13
37.00
2,280.03
784.86
831.21
148.65
-
0.88
37.00
698.33
-
831.21
183.99
1,184.72
0.88
March 31, 2024
-
0.40
37.00
2,780.03
784.86
831.21
148.65
900.00
-
37.00
708.90
6.94
831.21
183.99
1,184.72
-

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

D) (i) The Company has granted ESOP options to Key management personnel as mentioned below and for terms Refer to note 60.

Sr.
No.
Particulars No. of
Option Grant
No. of
Option Vested
No. of
Option Cancelled
No. of
Option Exercise
a) Mr. Prashant Nagre - - - -
- - -
b) Mr. Sumesh Gandhi - 3,213 4,819 -
(3,213) (4,819) -
c) Mr. Srikant Sharma - 2,409 3,614 -
(2,409) (3,614) -

Note. Figure in brackets of previous year

All transactions entered into with Related Parties as defined under Regulations during the financial year were in the ordinary course of business and on arm’s length pricing basis.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 161

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

42. Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24 (Contd.)

D) (i) Options to Key management personnel position :

Sr.
No.
Particulars
Mr. Prashant Nagre
Mr. Sumesh Gandhi
Mr. Srikant Sharma
As at March 31, 2024 As at March 31, 2024 As at March 31, 2024
Total No. of
Option Grant
Total No. of
Option Vested
Total No. of
Option Cancelled
/Forfeited*
No. of Option
Exercise
Total No.
of Option
Outstanding
a) 2,17,410 2,17,410 - 2,17,410
b) 40,161 16,065 24,096 - 16,065
c) 30,117 12,047 18,070 12,047
  • The effect of total no. of option cancelled / forfeited on estimation accounted in the previous year March 31, 2023

43. Commitments and Contingent liabilities

43. Commitments and Contingent liabilities
Particulars
(i) Commitments:
(a) Estimated amount of contracts remaining to be executed on capital account and
notprovided for (net of advances)
(b) Lease commitments
(ii) Contingent liabilities:
Claims against the company not acknowledged as debts*
(a) Tax matters
Service tax department raised demand ofH22.50 Lakhs consisting of Service Tax of
H7.50 Lakhs and penalty ofH15.00 Lakhs in connection with services rendered post
demerger of the pharmaceutical division. Commissioner of Service Tax Mumbai and
CESTAT has upheld the order of Joint Commissioner of Service Tax. The Company
haspreferred an appeal to BombayHigh Court.
The Deputy Commissioner of sales tax has confrmed the order of the Assistant
Commissioner of sales tax Vapi, Gujarat for year 1992-93 and 1993-94 for demand
of interest and penalty due to shortfall in tax payment on account of computation
of purchase tax setof. Company has preferred an appeal to sales tax tribunal
Ahmedabad, Gujarat and obtained stay against the order/demand of the Assistant
Commissionerpendingfnal disposal.
(b) Letter of comfort on behalf of a subsidiary, to the extent of limits
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
2,677.29
73.57
22.50
4.63
301.46
March 31, 2024
57.17
127.38
22.50
4.63
301.46

Note:- Future cash outflows in respect of the above are determinable only on receipt of judgements/decisions pending with various authorities/forums and/or final outcome of the matters.

  • Excludes interest.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

44. Payment to auditors excluding statutory levy

44. Payment to auditors excluding statutory levy
Particulars
For audit
For limited review
For other services
Reimbursement of expenses
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
31.00
15.00
0.90
2.21
49.11
March 31, 2024
34.00
15.00
0.90
0.80
50.70

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

162 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

45. Earnings per share (EPS):

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share :

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share :
Particulars
(Loss) / proft before Exceptional Items for the year used for computation of basic and
diluted earnings per share (Hin Lakhs) #
Loss After Exceptional Items for the year used for computation of basic and diluted
earnings per share (Hin Lakhs) #
Weighted average number of equity shares used in calculating basic EPS
[refer note 22(a)]
Efect of dilutive potential equity shares
Weighted average number of equity shares used in calculating diluted EPS
Earnings per equity share ofH5 each before exceptional items
Basic earnings per equity share [nominal value of shareH5 (March 31, 2023:H5)]
Diluted earnings per equity share [nominal value of shareH5 (March 31, 2023:H5)]
Earnings per equity share ofH5 each after exceptional items
Basic earnings per equity share [nominal value of shareH5 (March 31, 2023:H5)]
Diluted earnings per equity share [nominal value of shareH5 (March 31, 2023:H5)]
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
258.60
(5,700.32)
2,88,57,303
3,28,842
2,91,86,145
0.90
0.90
(19.75)
(19.75)*
March 31, 2024
(974.33)
(1,874.33)
2,88,74,107
3,12,038
2,91,86,145
(3.37)
(3.37)*
(6.49)
(6.49)*
  • Potential equity share are anti dilutive

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

46. Leases

(A) Assets taken on lease

The Company has entered into agreements for taking on leave and license basis certain residential and office premises and also taken vehicles on lease basis. The Company also has lease arrangements for lands taken on lease at Dahej and Saykha. The lease term in respect of these leases ranges from 2 to 99 years. In respect of the said leases, the additional information is as under

Amount recognised in the statements of proft and loss:
Particulars
Depreciation charge for right-of-use assets (Refer Note 5)
Expenses relating to leases of low-value assets accounted for on straight line basis
(included in Rent expenses in Note 41)
Finance cost (Refer Note 39)
Maturity analysis of lease liabilities (on undiscounted basis)
Particulars
Less than oneyear
One to fveyears
More than fveyears
Weighted average incremental borrowing rate applied to lease liabilities
recognised in the balance sheet at the date.
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
131.63
37.19
32.08
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
88.02
167.09
93.10
10%
March 31, 2024
130.29
36.38
36.76
March 31, 2024
143.13
609.37
54.97
8.75%

Annual Report 2023-24 | 163

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

46. Leases (Contd.)

Set out below are the carrying amounts of lease liabilities (included under financial liabilities) and the movements during the year:

Particulars
As at the beginningof theyear
Pursuant to scheme of amalgamation (Refer Note 70)
Interestpayment Lease liabilities (Refer Note 39)
Addition(net)
Payments
As at the end of theyear
Leas liabilities
Current
Non-Current
Total Lease liabilities
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
479.05
(157.30)
32.08
41.89
(127.94)
267.78
68.67
199.11
267.78
March 31, 2024
267.78
-
36.76
479.08
(133.92)
649.69
95.81
553.88
649.69

General description of significant leasing agreements

(i) Refundable interest free deposits have been given under lease agreements.

(ii) Some of the agreements provide for early termination by either party with a specified notice period / renewal with conditions

(B) Assets given on lease

The Company has also entered into various operating lease agreements for its properties in Thane with original lease periods expiring up to January 2028. These agreements have a non-cancellable period at the beginning of the period for 3/5 years and have rent escalation provisions of 5% every year or 15% after 3 years.

Particulars
a)
Rent income recognised in the Standalone statement of proft and loss for the
year
b)
Future minimum lease income under the non-cancellable leases in the
aggregate and for each
of the following periods:
i)
Not later than oneyear
ii) Later than oneyear and not later than fveyears
iii) More than fveyears
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,150.98
276.82
662.37
-
March 31, 2024
430.97
316.36
946.98
-

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

47. Employee benefits

The Company operates following employee benefit plans

(I) Defined contribution plans: Provident fund, superannuation fund, employee state insurance scheme (ESIC) and labour welfare fund.

(II) Defined benefit plan: Gratuity (funded)

(III) Other long term benefit plan: Compensated absences (unfunded)

164 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

47. Employee benefits (Contd.)

  • I) Defined contribution plan

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
The Company operates defned contribution retirement beneft plans for all
qualifying employees of the Company. The contribution to defned contribution
plan, recognised as expenses in the Standalone statement of proft and loss for the
year is as under (Refer note 38).
Employer's contribution toprovident fund
Employer's contribution to superannuation fund
Employer's contribution to ESIC and Employees Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI)
Employer's contribution to labour welfare fund
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
277.99
1.77
9.96
0.11
253.95
0.06
8.04
0.09

II) Defined benefit plan

The Company operates a defined benefit plan, viz., gratuity.

In respect of Gratuity, a defined benefit plan, contributions are made to LIC’s Recognised Group Gratuity Fund Scheme. It is governed by the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972. Under the Gratuity Act, employees are entitled to specific benefit at the time of retirement or termination of the employment on completion of five years or death while in employment. The level of benefit provided depends on the member’s length of service and salary at the time of retirement/termination. Provision for Gratuity is based on actuarial valuation done by an independent actuary as at the year end. Each year, the Company reviews the level of funding in the gratuity fund.

  • (a) Movements in the present value of the defined benefit obligation are as follows:
Movements in the present value of the defned beneft obligation are as fo
Particulars
Opening defned beneft obligation
Interest cost
Current service cost
Beneftspaid
Actuarial (Gain)/loss on obligations - due to changes in fnancial assumptions
Actuarial (Gain)/loss on obligations - due to changes in demographic
assumptions
Actuarial (Gain)/loss on obligations - due to changes in experience
adjustment
Closing defned beneft obligation
lows: (Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
559.37
35.44
63.13
(77.59)
(19.48)
-
8.89
569.76
March 31, 2024
569.76
38.62
60.69
(78.87)
11.54
-
(22.70)
579.05
**(b) ** Movements in the fair value of the plan assets are as follows:
Particulars
Opening fair value ofplan assets
Employer's contributions
Interest income
Remeasurementgain / (loss) :
Return onplan assets (excludingamounts included in net interest expense)
Beneftpaid
Closing fair value ofplan assets
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
370.90
38.21
23.39
0.57
(77.59)
355.48
March 31, 2024
355.48
21.14
23.96
1.12
(78.87)
322.83

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 165

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

47. Employee benefits (Contd.)

  • c) Reconciliation of fair value of plan assets and defined benefit obligation:

The amount included in the Standalone financial statements arising from the Company's obligation in respect of its defined benefit obligation plan is as follows:

(H in Lakhs)

defned beneft obligation plan is as follows: (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Fair value ofplan assets
Present value of defned beneft obligation
Amounts recognised in the Standalone balance sheet surplus/(defcit)
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
355.48
569.76
(214.28)
322.83
579.05
(256.22)
  • d) The amount recognised in Standalone statement of profit and loss in respect of the defined benefit plan are as follows:
Particulars
Current service cost
Net interest expense / (income)
Components of defned beneft costs recognised in Standalone
statement ofproft and loss
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
63.13
12.06
75.19
March 31, 2024
60.69
14.66
75.35
  • e) The amount recognised in other comprehensive income in respect of the defined benefit plan is as follows:
Particulars
Remeasurement on the net defned benefts liability:
Return onplan assets (excludingamounts included in net interest expense)
Actuarialgains /(losses) arisingfrom changes in fnancial assumptions
Actuarialgains /(losses) arisingfrom changes in demographic assumptions
Actuarialgains /(losses) arisingfrom changes in experience adjustments
Components of defned beneft recognised as income / (loss) in other
comprehensive income
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
0.57
19.48
-
(8.89)
11.16
March 31, 2024
1.12
(11.54)
-
22.70
12.28
  • f) The principal assumptions used for the purpose of the actuarial valuations are as follows:
Particulars
Discount rate (per annum)
Salaryescalation rate (per annum)
Expected rate of return onplan assets (per annum)
Retirement Age
Mortality rate
LeavingService (agegroups)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
7.45%
5.00%
7.05%
58 Years
Indian Assured lives
Mortality(2012-14)
21-30years- 4%
31-40years - 3%
41-50years - 2%
Above 50years - 1%
March 31, 2024
7.20%
5.00%
7.05%
58 Years
Indian Assured lives
Mortality(2012-14)
21-30years- 4%
31-40years - 3%
41-50years - 2%
Above 50years - 1%

The estimates of rate of escalation in salary considered in actuarial valuation, take into account inflation, seniority, promotion and other relevant factors including supply and demand in the employment market. The above information is certified by the actuary.

The expected rate of return on plan assets is considered as per declaration from Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) .

The expected contributions for defined benefit plan for the next financial year is H35 Lakhs (March 31, 2023: H35.00 Lakhs).

166 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

47. Employee benefits (Contd.)

g) Maturity analysis of projected benefit obligation

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Expected benefts for Year 1
Expected benefts for Year 2
Expected benefts for Year 3
Expected benefts for Year 4
Expected benefts for Year 5
Expected benefts for Year 6
Expected benefts for Year 7
Expected benefts for Year 8
Expected benefts for Year 9
Expected benefts for Year 10 and above
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
102.81
27.71
38.36
60.52
72.92
44.35
20.26
32.97
30.36
807.52
92.28
38.54
61.67
74.23
40.33
20.83
34.90
26.59
29.01
772.48

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

  • g) The major categories of plan assets as a percentage of the fair value of total plan assets are as follows:
Particulars
Insurer managed funds
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
100%
March 31, 2024
100%

i) Sensitivity analysis

Significant actuarial assumptions for determination of the defined benefit obligation are discount rate and expected salary increase. The sensitivity analysis below has been determined based on reasonably possible changes of the assumptions occurring at end of year, while holding all other assumptions constant. The result of sensitivity analysis is given below:

Particulars
Discount rate (- 0.50%)
Discount rate (+ 0.50%)
Salaryescalation rate (- 0.50%)
Salaryescalation rate (+ 0.50%)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023
(Decrease)/increase in DBO*
4.31%
(-4.01%)
(-3.93%)
4.19%
March 31, 2024
(Decrease)/increase in DBO*
4.20%
(-3.92%)
(-3.84%)
4.09%

*’DBO: Defined benefit obligation

j) Risks exposure:

The plan typically exposes the Company to actuarial risks such as: investment risk, interest risk, longevity risk and salary risk.

Investment risk : The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated using a discount rate determined by reference to market yields on government bonds denominated in Indian rupees. If the actual return on plan assets is below this rate, it will create a plan deficit. However, the risk is mitigated by investment in LIC managed fund.

Interest risk : A decrease in the bond interest rate will increase the plan liability; however, this will be partially offset by an increase in the value of the plan’s investment in LIC managed fund.

Longevity risk : The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated by reference to the best estimate of the mortality of plan participants both during and after their employment. An increase in the life expectancy of the plan participants will increase the plan’s liability.

Salary risk : ‘The inherent risk for the Company mainly are adverse salary growth or demographic experience or inadequate returns on underlying plan assets can result in an increase in cost of providing these benefits to employees in future. Since the benefits are lump sum in nature the plan is not subject to any longevity risks.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 167

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

47. Employee benefits (Contd.)

III) Other long term benefit plan

Actuarial valuation for compensated absences is done as at the year end and provision is made as per Company rules with corresponding charge / (credit) to the Standalone statement of profit and loss amounting to H116.56 Lakhs [March 31, 2023: (H77.02 Lakhs)] and it covers all regular employees. Major drivers in actuarial assumptions, typically, are years of service and employee compensation.

Obligation in respect of defined benefit plan and other long term employee benefit plans are actuarially determined at the year end using the “Projected unit credit model”. Gains and losses on changes in actuarial assumptions relating to defined benefit obligation are recognised in OCI where as gains and losses in respect of other long term employee benefit plans are recognised in the Standalone statement of profit and loss.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

48. Income tax

48 A Tax expense recognised in the Standalone statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income consists of:

Particulars
Tax expenses:
Current tax
Adjusment of Tax related to earlieryears
Deferred tax charge
Income tax expense / (income) recognised in the Standalone statement of
proft and loss
Tax expense / (income) recognised in other comprehensive income
Total Tax expense / (income)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
18.15
(115.57)
0.02
(97.40)
-
(97.40)
March 31, 2024
168.02
1,245.55
-
1,413.57
-
1,413.57

48 B A reconciliation of income tax expense to the amount computed by applying the statutory income tax rate to the profit before income tax is summarised below:

the proft before income tax is summarised below:
Particulars
Loss before tax
Enacted income tax rate in India(%)
Income tax expense calculated at enacted income tax rate
Efect of tax on:
DTA not recognised on losses
Expenses disallowed under income Tax
MAT credit not recognised
Others
Total income tax expense /(income)
Adjusment of Tax related to earlieryears
*Tax expenses /(income) recognised in Standalone statement ofproft and loss

Tax expense /(income) recognised in other comprehensive income
Total tax expense /(income)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
(5,797.72)
29.120
(1,688.30)
(1,583.22)
(32.89)
-
(90.36)
(1,706.47)
18.17
(115.57)
(97.40)
-
(97.40)
March 31, 2024
(460.76)
29.120
(134.17)
-
(44.99)
(168.02)
(89.19)
(302.19)
168.02
1,245.55
1,413.57
-
1,413.57

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

*The tax rate used for reconciliation above is the corporate tax rate of 29.12% (March 31, 2023: 29.12%) at which the Company is liable to pay tax on taxable income under the Indian tax Laws.

** During the year, the Company has received intimation / final assessment order for the financial years 2016-17 to 2021-22 basis which an additional provision of tax is required on account of certain disallowances. Accordingly total MAT credit recognised of H1,129.83 lakhs and Tax receivable recognised of H115.72 lakhs has been written off during the year relating to such earlier years.

168 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

48. Income tax (Contd.)

48C The major components of deferred tax liabilities/(assets) arising on account of temporary differences are as follows:

(H in Lakhs)

Parameter
(i) Components of deferred tax liabilities (net)
Deferred tax liabilities
Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets:
Impact of diference between written down value as
per books of account and income tax
Lease Liability
Deferred tax assets
Expenses claimed for taxpurpose onpayment basis
Allowance for doubtful debts and advances
Allowance for impairment in the value of non current
investment and share application money
Lease assets
Business losses
MAT Credit entitlement
Others
Deferred tax charge/(credit)
Net deferred tax assets*
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2024 March 31, 2024
April 01,
2023
Statement of
proft and loss
Other
comprehensive
income
March 31,
2024
(3,669.00) (592.15) - (4,261.16)
(139.50) (20.90) (160.40)
158.38 90.83 - 249.21
1,418.04 176.99 - 1,595.03
150.32 250.39 - 400.71
139.50 20.90 - 160.40
56.79 73.84 130.63
5,218.86 (1,129.83) - 4,089.03
(3.64) 0.10 - (3.54)
(1,129.83) -
3,329.75 2,199.91

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

  • Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent of deferred tax liabilities available since Company creates deferred tax assets only to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary difference could be utilised.

(H in Lakhs)

Parameter March 31, 2023# March 31, 2023#
April 01,
2022 #
Statement of
proft and loss
Other
comprehensive
income
March 31,
2023
(i) Components of deferred tax liabilities (net)
Deferred tax liabilities
Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets:
Impact of diference between written down value as
per books of account and income tax
(2,423.36) (1,245.64) - (3,669.00)
Lease Liability (139.50) (139.50)
Deferred tax assets
Expenses claimed for taxpurpose onpayment basis 193.99 (35.61) - 158.38
Allowance for doubtful debts and advances 144.11 1,273.93 - 1,418.04
Allowance for impairment in the value of non current
investment and share application money
138.32 12.00 - 150.32
Lease assets - 139.50 - 139.50

Annual Report 2023-24 | 169

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

48. Income tax (Contd.)

(H in Lakhs)

ncome tax(Contd.) (Hin Lakhs)
Parameter March 31, 2023#
April 01,
2022 #
Statement of
proft and loss
Other
comprehensive
income
March 31,
2023
Business losses 56.79 56.79
MAT Credit entitlement 5,292.47 (73.61) - 5,218.86
Others (15.78) 12.14 - (3.64)
Deferred tax charge/(credit) - -
Net deferred tax assets 3,329.75 3,329.75

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

48D Details of unused tax losses and unabsorbed tax depreciation for which deferred tax assets have not been recognised:

recognised: recognised:
(Hin Crores)
Expiry of losses fnancial year wise Business losses Unabsorbed
depreciation
Financial Year 2030-2031 3,200.70
Indefnite 1,933.33
Total 3,200.70 1,933.33

49. Research and development expenditure

Research and development expenditure of H1,334.11 Lakhs (March 31, 2023: H1,336.12 Lakhs) has been charged to the Standalone statement of profit and loss. The capital expenditure in the current year on research and development amounts to H5.92 Lakhs (March 31, 2023: H14.14 Lakhs).

50 . During the year ended March 31, 2024, Directors sitting fees to Non-Excecutive Directors aggregating H46.50 Lakhs has been charged to the Standalone statement of profit and loss. (March 31, 2023 H40.70 Lakhs)

51. Details of CSR expenditure

51. Details of CSR expenditure
Gross amount required to be spent by the
Company as per Section 135 of companies act
2013 and included in other expenses
Particulars
Amount spent duringtheyear
i)
Construction/acquisition of anyasset
ii) Onpurposes other than (i) above
In cash
4.02
112.62
(Hin Lakhs)
2023-24 2022-23
82.62 112.95
In cash Yet to be
paid in cash
Total Yet to be
paid in cash
Total
21.66 - 21.66 - 4.02
61.33 - 61.33 - 112.62

170 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

51. Details of CSR expenditure (Contd.)

Nature of CSR activities undertaken

51. Details of CSR expenditure(Contd.)
Nature of CSR activities undertaken
Particulars
Promotinghealth care including preventive health care
Contribution for the beneft of armed forces veterans
Contribution towards animalprotection/ welfare
Promotingeducation and Social welfare
Promotinghealth care
Promotingeducation
Social welfare
Protection of art and culture
Administrative Overheads
Amount Spent
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
15.00
20.00
16.62
6.15
29.25
51.90
3.93
6.17
-
3.96
3.08
4.17
10.71
18.64
0.25
-
4.15
5.65
82.99
116.65
March 31, 2024
15.00
16.62
29.25
3.93
-
3.08
10.71
0.25
4.15
82.99

Excess payment of H3.69 Lakhs of the year ended March 31, 2023 is set-off in the current year.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

In case of Section 135(5) excess amount spent is as below:

In case of Section 135(5) excess amount spent is as below:
(Hin Lakhs)
Opening Balance Amount required to be
spent during theyear
Amount spent during the
**year ***
Closing Balance
3.69 82.62 82.99 0.37
  • This amount includes excess payment of H3.69 lakhs of previous year utilised during the year

52. Disclosures under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006

52. Disclosures under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Deve
Particulars
a
(i)
Principal amount remaining unpaid to any supplier at the end of the
accounting year
(ii) Interest due on above
The Total of (i) and (ii)
b
The amount of interest paid by the buyer in terms of Section 16 of the Micro,
Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006 (27 of 2006) along with the
amounts of the payment made to the supplier beyond the appointed day during
each accounting year
c
The amount of interest due and payable for the period of delay in making
payment (which have been paid but beyond the appointed day during the year)
but without adding the interest specifed under the Micro, Small and Medium
Enterprises Development Act, 2006
d
The amount of interest accrued and remaining unpaid at the end of each
accounting year; and
e
The amount of further interest remaining due and payable even in the succeeding
years, until such date when the interest dues above are actually paid to the small
enterprises for the purpose of disallowance as a deductible expenditure under
Section 23 of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006
lopment Act, 2006
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
280.47
-
280.47
-
-
-
-
March 31, 2024
237.63
-
237.63
-
10.12
12.56
-

The information regarding Micro and Small Enterprises has been determined to the extent such parties have been identified on the basis of information available with the Company. This has been relied upon by the auditors.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 171

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

53. Categories of the financial instruments

(H in Lakhs )

Particulars
Financial Assets
(i) Investments
(ii) Trade receivables
(iii) Loans
(iv) Cash and cash equivalents
(v) Bank balances other than (iv) above
(vi) Other fnancial assets
Total
Financial Liabilities
Borrowings
Lease liabilities
Tradepayables
Other fnancial liabilities
Derivatives not designated as hedge
Total
March 31, 2024
Ammortised
Cost
FVTPL FVTOCI Total Carrying
value
Total Fair
value
5.91 - 37.45 43.36 43.36
8,884.81 - - 8,884.81 8,884.81
1,204.87 - - 1,204.87 1,204.87
1,863.43 - - 1,863.43 1,863.43
3,800.52 - - 3,800.52 3,800.52
532.24 - - 532.24 532.24
16,291.78 - 37.45 16,329.23 16,329.23
13,232.72 - - 13,232.72 13,232.72
649.69 - - 649.69 649.69
5,303.12 - - 5,303.12 5,303.12
1,074.77 - - 1,074.77 1,074.77
- 42.51 - 42.51 42.51
20,260.30 42.51 - 20,302.81 20,302.81

(H in Lakhs)

(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars March 31, 2023 #
Ammortised
Cost
FVTPL FVTOCI Total Carrying
value
Total Fair
value
Financial Assets
(i) Investments 5.91 - 30.70 36.61 36.61
(ii) Trade receivables 8,537.21 - - 8,537.21 8,537.21
(iii) Loans 818.33 - - 818.33 818.33
(iv) Cash and cash equivalents 3,207.53 - - 3,207.53 3,207.53
(v) Bank balances other than (iv) above 2,303.75 - - 2,303.75 2,303.75
(vi) Investments- Corporate fxed deposit 278.07 - - 278.07 278.07
(vii) Other fnancial assets 2,189.42 - - 2,189.42 2,189.42
Total 17,340.22 - 30.70 17,370.92 17,370.92
Financial Liabilities
(i) Borrowings 21,679.58 - - 21,679.58 21,679.58
(ii) Lease liabilities 267.78 - - 267.78 267.78
(iii) Tradepayables 5,190.85 - - 5,190.85 5,190.85
(iv) Other fnancial liabilities 952.51 - - 952.51 952.51
(v) Derivatives not designated as hedge 64.78 64.78 64.78
Total 28,090.72 64.78 - 28,155.50 28,155.50

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

172 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

54. Reconciliation of Level 3 fair value measurements:

54. Reconciliation of Level 3 fair value measurements:
Particulars
Opening balance
Totalgains or (losses)
Recognised in standalone statement ofproft and loss.
Closing balance
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
5.91
-
5.91
March 31, 2024
5.91
-
5.91

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

55. Fair value

Fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities that are not measured at fair value but fair value disclosures are required :

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Financial assets
Trade receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Bank balances other than cash and cash
equivalents
Investments- Corporate fxed deposit
Loans
Other fnancial assets
Total assets
Financial liabilities
Tradepayables
Lease liabilities
Borrowings
Other fnancial liabilities
Derivatives not designated as hedge
Total liabilities
Non-current
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
8,884.81
8,537.21
1,863.43
3,207.53
3,800.52
2,303.75
-
278.07
1,204.87
818.33
532.24
2,189.42
16,285.87
17,334.31
5,303.12
5,190.85
649.69
267.78
13,232.72
21,679.58
1,074.77
952.51
42.51
64.78
20,302.81
28,155.50
Current
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
8,884.81
8,537.21
1,863.43
3,207.53
3,800.52
2,303.75
-
278.07
1,204.87
818.33
532.24
2,189.42
16,285.87
17,334.32
5,303.12
5,190.85
649.69
267.78
13,232.72
21,679.58
1,074.77
952.51
42.51
64.78
20,302.81
28,155.50
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2024
8,884.81 8,884.81
1,863.43 1,863.43
3,800.52 3,800.52
- -
1,204.87 1,204.87
532.24 532.24
16,285.87 16,285.87
5,303.12 5,303.12
649.69 649.69
13,232.72 13,232.72
1,074.77 1,074.77
42.51 42.51
20,302.81 20,302.81

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

The financial assets above do not include investments in subsidiaries which are measured at cost, investments in mutual funds measured at fair value through profit and loss and investments in equity instruments measured at fair value through OCI.

The Management largely due to short term maturity consider that the carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities recognised in the standalone financial statements approximate their fair values.

Fair value hierarchy
Particulars
Financial assets measured at fair value through Other
comprehensive income
Investments in equityshares-quoted
Investments in equityshares-unquoted
Financial Liabilities measured at fair value through proft or loss
Derivatives not designated as hedge
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Fair Value
Fair value
hierarchy
30.70
Level 1
5.91
Level 3
64.78
Level 2
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Fair Value
Fair value
hierarchy
30.70
Level 1
5.91
Level 3
64.78
Level 2
March 31, 2024
Fair Value Fair value
hierarchy
Fair value
hierarchy
37.45 Level 1 Level 1
5.91 Level 3 Level 3
42.51 Level 2 Level 2

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 173

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 56 - Segment information:

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the Chief Operating Decision Maker ("CODM") of the Company. The Managing Director of the Company is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the CODM of the Company. The Company has identified the following segments as reporting segments based on the information reviewed by CODM.

The business segments have been identified considering :

  • a) the nature of products and services

  • b) the differing risks and returns

  • c) the internal organisation and management structure, and

  • d) the internal financial reporting systems

The segment information presented is in accordance with the accounting policies adopted by the Company. Segment revenues, expenses and results include inter-segment transfers.

A) The primary reporting of the Company has been performed on the basis of business segments, viz:

Chemicals/Bulk Drug- Manufacturing and selling of chemicals, primarily bulk drugs and enzymes.

Property - Renting and Sale of properties

Segments have been identified and reported based on the nature of the services, the risk and returns, the organisation structure and the internal financial reporting systems.

2023-2024
2022-2023 #
Bulk Drug/
Chemicals
Property Total
a.
Revenue
1
Segment revenue
22,698.29 7,374.15 30,072.44
25,842.43 6,303.36 32,145.79
Less : Inter-segment revenue - - -
- - -
Unallocated revenue (net) 1,452.02
1,591.87
2
Total
31,524.46
33,737.66
b.
Result
1
Segment (loss) /proft before Tax and fnance cost
(4,396.46) 6,523.94 2,127.48
(3,204.40) 5,368.89 2,164.49
2
Finance costs
1,705.21
2,080.20
3
Unallocable income/(expenditure) (net)
16.97
76.91
4
Proft before Exceptional Items and tax
439.24
161.20
5
Exceptional item
(900.00)
(5,958.92)
6
Tax expense/(income)
- current tax 168.02
18.15
- deferred tax charge -
0.02

174 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 56 - Segment information: (Contd.)

te 56 - Segment information:(Contd.)
2023-2024
2022-2023 #
Bulk Drug/
Chemicals
Property Total
-Adjustment of tax related to earlieryears 1,245.55
(115.57)
7
Loss after tax
(1,874.33)
(5,700.32)
c.
Other information
1.
Segment assets
45,876.77 1,481.83 47,358.60
50,867.14 3,461.53 54,328.67
2
Unallocated corporate assets
9,099.24
12,056.99
3.
Total assets
56,457.84
66385.66
4.
Segment liabilities
7,288.68 4,208.26 11,496.94
6,172.35 3,982.57 10,154.92
5.
Unallocated corporate liabilities
13,538.29
22,625.04
6.
Total liabilities
25,035.23
32,779.96
7.
Cost incurred duringtheyear to acquire
- segment tangible and intangible assets 1,397.74 522.98 1,920.71
4,048.95 - 4,048.95
- unallocated segment tangible and intangible assets -
-
8.
Depreciation and amortization expense
2,351.47 18.08 2,369.55
2,189.63 258.87 2,448.50

(Figures in italics are the corresponding figures in respect of the previous year.)

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

B) Geographical information

Geographical information is reported on the basis of the geographical location of the customers. The management views the Indian market and export markets as distinct geographical markets.

Revenue by market – The following is the distribution of the Company’s revenue by geographical market:

Particulars
India
Bulk Drug/Chemicals
Property
Others
Europe - Bulk Drug/Chemicals
USA - Bulk Drug/Chemicals
Others countries - Bulk Drug/Chemicals
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
8,811.01
6,303.36
1,591.87
6,741.99
2,149.77
8,139.66
33,737.66
March 31, 2024
9,405.69
7,374.15
1,452.02
5,513.12
1,177.40
6,602.08
31,524.46

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 175

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 56 - Segment information: (Contd.)

The following is an analysis of the carrying amount of Non current assets excluding financials assets, Investment in subsidiaries and deferred Tax Assets, analysed by geographical area in which the assets are located:

deferred Tax Assets, analysed by geographical area in which the assets are located:
(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
India
Outside-India
Total
Assets
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
27,762.30
31,851.32
-
-
27,762.30
31,851.32
March 31, 2024
27,762.30
-
27,762.30

The Company’s operating facilities are located in India.

The Company has not generated revenue aggregating more than 10% of the Company’s total revenue from any customer during the period (March 31, 2023 Nil).

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

57. Financial risk management objectives and policies

The Company is exposed to credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk. The Company’s financial risk management is an integral part of how to plan and execute its business strategies. The Board of Directors review and agree policies for managing each of these risks, which are summarised below.

a) Market risk

Market risk is the risk of loss of future earnings, fair values or future cash flows that may result from adverse changes in market rates and prices (such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices and equity price risk). Market risk is attributable to all market risk-sensitive financial instruments, all foreign currency receivables and payables and all short term and long-term borrowings. The Company is exposed to market risks related to foreign exchange rate risk, commodity rate risk, interest rate risk and other price risks, such as equity price risks. Thus, the Company’s exposure to market risk is a function of borrowing activities, revenue generating and operating activities in foreign currencies.

i) Equity price risk

The Company’s unlisted equity securities are susceptible to market price risk arising from uncertainties about future values of the investments in securities. The Company manages the equity price risk through diversification and by placing limits on individual and total equity instruments. The Company’s Board of Directors review and approve, all investments in the equity instruments.

As at March 31, 2024 and March 31, 2023 the Company had exposure to equity securities measured at fair value. The changes in fair values of the equity investments were strongly positively co-related with changes in market index.

ii) Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rate. The Company’s exposure to the risk of changes in market interest rates relates primarily to the Company’s long-term and short term borrowings obligations with floating interest rates.

The Company manages it’s interest rate risk by having a balanced portfolio of long term and short term borrowings.

For the years ended March 31, 2024 and March 31, 2023 every 50 basis point decrease in the floating interest rate component applicable to its loan and borrowings would increase the Company’s profit by H85.48 Lakhs and H117.39 Lakhs respectively. A 50 basis point increase in floating interest rate would lead to an equal but opposite effect.

iii) Commodity rate risk

Exposure to market risk with respect to commodity prices primarily arises from the Company’s purchases and sales of active pharmaceutical ingredients, including the raw material components for such active pharmaceutical ingredients. The prices of the Company’s raw materials generally are stable. Cost of raw materials forms the largest portion of the Company’s cost of revenues.

176 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

57. Financial risk management objectives and policies(Contd.)

A large portion of the Company’s sales are subject to commodity rate risk having a volatile pricing. The Company monitors overall demand supply position and pricing movement to decide marketing strategies to overcome risk of changing prices of the products.

iv) Foreign currency risk

The Company’s foreign exchange risk arises from its foreign currency revenues and expenses and foreign currency borrowings. As a result, if the value of the Indian rupee appreciates relative to these foreign currencies, the Company’s revenues and expenses measured in Indian rupees may decrease or increase and vice-versa. The exchange rate between the Indian rupee and these foreign currencies have changed substantially in recent periods and may continue to fluctuate substantially in the future. Consequently, the Company largely uses the natural hedge to mitigate the risk of changes in foreign currency exchange rates in respect of its highly probable forecasted transactions and recognised assets and liabilities.

The year end foreign currency exposures that have not been hedged (before giving effects of natural hedge) by derivative instrument or otherwise are given below:

A) Significant foreign currency risk exposure relating to trade receivables and cash and cash equivalents :

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
(includingEEFC)
Loan
Business advances
Trade receivables and other
fnancial assets
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Jin Lakhs
0.01
0.19
0.09
0.00
0.00
0.16
0.00
0.25
-
-
0.06
5.35
-
-
-
-
-
-
0.00
0.74
0.01
0.01
0.02
1.05
-
-
-
0.33
8.50
698.33
10.27
915.33
-
-
0.25
20.49
0.05
1.22
36.25
2,978.35
60.07
5,351.01
March 31, 2023 #
Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Jin Lakhs
0.01
0.19
0.09
0.00
0.00
0.16
0.00
0.25
-
-
0.06
5.35
-
-
-
-
-
-
0.00
0.74
0.01
0.01
0.02
1.05
-
-
-
0.33
8.50
698.33
10.27
915.33
-
-
0.25
20.49
0.05
1.22
36.25
2,978.35
60.07
5,351.01
Currency Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Jin Lakhs Jin Lakhs
AED 0.05 1.07 0.19
BDT 0.09 0.00 0.00
CAD 0.00 0.17 0.16
CHF 0.00 0.31 0.25
CZK 0.00 0.01 -
EUR 0.03 2.27 5.35
JPY 0.19 0.00 -
NOK 0.00 0.00 -
NZD 0.01 0.57 -
OMR 0.00 0.76 0.74
RUB 0.01 0.01 0.01
SGD 0.02 1.15 1.05
TRY 0.01 0.03 -
USD 0.25 20.61 0.33
USD 8.50 708.90 698.33
EUR 10.43 936.83 915.33
GBP 0.01 0.76 -
USD 2.41 200.96 20.49
AED 0.00 0.04 1.22
USD 33.06 2,663.39 2,978.35
EURO 70.23 6,310.67 5,351.01

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 177

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

57. Financial risk management objectives and policies (Contd.)

B) Significant foreign currency risk exposure relating to borrowings and trade payables :

Particulars
Financial liabilities
Tradepayables
Borrowings ( PCFC )
External Commercial borrowing
(ECB)
Foreign Currency Term Loan
(FCTL)
Jin Lakhs
275.16
317.96
-
2,867.49
359.45
-
2,613.22
(Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
Currency Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )


Jin Lakhs
EURO 3.06 7.11 633.16
USD 3.81 0.90 74.29
SGD - 0.00 0.03
EURO 31.91 34.69 3,090.35
USD 4.31 - -
EURO - 4.90 436.15
EURO 29.08 40.67 3,623.29

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

C) Foreign currency sensitivity

For the years ended March 31, 2024 and March 31, 2023, every 5% strengthening in the exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the respective currencies for the above mentioned financial assets / liabilities would increase the Company’s profit and increase the Company’s total equity by approximately (net) H203.62 Lakhs and H105.78 Lakhs, respectively. A 5% weakening of the Indian rupee and the respective currencies would lead to equal but opposite effect. In Management’s opinion, the sensitivity analysis is unrepresentative of the inherent foreign exchange risk because the exposure at the end of the reporting period does not reflect the exposure during the year.

D) Derivative contracts

The Company is exposed to exchange rate risk that arises from its foreign exchange revenues and expenses, primarily in US Dollars and Euros and foreign currency debts in US dollars and Euros. The Company uses cross currency interest rate swap and Currency hedges (known as, “derivatives”) to mitigate its risk of changes in foreign currency exchange interest rates and exchange rates . The counterparty for these contracts is generally a bank.

The following table gives details in respect of the notional amount of outstanding foreign exchange derivative contract:

Particulars Currency Currency
Amount
Buy/Sell Cross
Currency
March 31,
2024
-
1.06
41.46
March 31,
2023 #
Derivatives not designated
as hedges
Currencyhedges
Currencyhedges EUR EUR 14.09 Sell INR -
Currencyhedges USD USD 11.89 Sell INR -
Cross currency interest rate
swap
EUR Buy INR 64.78

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

b) Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss, if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations and arises principally from the Company’s receivables from customers, loans and other financial assets. Credit risk is managed through credit approvals, establishing credit limits and continuously monitoring the creditworthiness of counterparty to which the Company grants credit terms in the normal course of business.

178 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

57. Financial risk management objectives and policies (Contd.)

Exposure to credit risk

The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure.”

i) Trade receivables

The Company has used expected credit loss (ECL) model for assessing the impairment loss. For this purpose, the Company uses a provision matrix to compute the expected credit loss amount. The provision matrix takes into account external and internal risk factors and historical data of credit losses from various customers. The Company evaluates the concentration of risk with respect to trade receivables which is low, as its customers are widely spread with small outstanding amounts (For detailed movement in provision for trade receivables - Refer note 16)

Trade receivables
Particulars
Not due
Less than 6 months
6 months-1year
1-2years
2-3years
Beyond 3years
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
3,992.78
3,263.18
533.31
1,009.99
877.67
1,105.78
10,782.71
March 31, 2024
4,575.62
2,344.69
414.06
1,346.67
996.87
1,973.64
11,651.56

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

ii) Financial instruments and cash deposits

Credit risk from balances with banks and financial institutions is managed by the Company in accordance with the Company’s policy. Investments of surplus funds are made only with approved counterparties and within credit limits assigned to each counterparty. Counterparty credit limits are reviewed by the Company’s Board of Directors on an annual basis. The limits are set to minimise the concentration of risks and therefore mitigate financial loss through counterparty’s potential failure to make payments. Credit risk in case of Intercorporate deposit given is managed by the Company in accordance with the Company’s policy. ICD only be given out of surplus funds, are made only with the approval of the Board of Directors and are reviewed by the Board on an annual basis.

c) Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to settle or meet its obligations as they fall due. The Company’s policy on liquidity risk is to maintain sufficient liquidity in the form of cash and investment in liquid banks deposits to meet the Company’s operating requirements with an appropriate level of headroom. In addition, processes and policies related to such risks are overseen by senior management. Management monitors the Company’s net liquidity position through rolling forecasts on the basis of expected cash flows.

i) Maturity profile of financial liabilities

The table below provides details regarding the remaining contractual maturities of financial liabilities at the reporting date based on contractual undiscounted payments.

March 31, 2024

Borrowings
Tradepayables
Lease liabilities
Other fnancial liabilities (including derivatives not
designated as hedge)
Total
Less than 1
year
1 to 5 years More than 5
years
Total
8,973.49 4,259.23 - 13,232.72
5,303.12 - - 5,303.12
95.81 553.88 - 649.69
763.44 353.84 - 1,117.28
15,135.86 5,166.95 - 20,302.81

Annual Report 2023-24 | 179

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

57. Financial risk management objectives and policies(Contd.)

57. Financial risk management objectives and policies(Contd.) 57. Financial risk management objectives and policies(Contd.)
March 31, 2023 # (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Less than
1year
1 to 5 years More than
5years
Total
Borrowings 13,325.63 8,319.96 34.00 21,679.59
Tradepayables 5,190.85 - - 5,190.85
Lease liabilities 68.67 199.11 - 267.78
Other fnancial liabilities 908.91 108.38 - 1,017.29
Total 19,494.06 8,627.45 34.00 28,155.50

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

The Company had unutilised credit limit of borrowing facilities as at March 31, 2024: H3,171.70 lakhs and as at March 31, 2023 H1,211.87 lakhs from banks.

58. Capital management

The Company’s capital management objectives are:

  • to ensure the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern; and

  • to provide an adequate return to shareholders through optimisation of debts and equity balance.

The Company monitors capital on the basis of the carrying amount of debt less Cash and cash equivalents presented on the face of the standalone financial statements. The Company’s objective for capital management is to maintain an optimum overall financial structure.

(i) The gearing ratio at the end of the year was as follows:
Particulars
Debts (Term loans and loans repayable on demand including current maturities of
longterm debts)
Less: Cash and cash equivalents (Refer note 17)
Net debt
Total equity
Net debt to equity ratio
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
21,679.59
3,207.53
18,472.06
33,605.70
55%
March 31, 2024
13,232.72
1,863.43
11,369.29
31,422.61
36%

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

(ii) Dividend on equity shares paid during the year

**(ii) ** Dividend on equity shares paid during the year
Particulars
Dividend on equity shares
Dividend for the year ended March 31, 2023 ofH1.25 per share on 2,94,30,987 equity
shares ofH5.00/- each, fully paid up (net of 5,56,880 equity shares ofH5.00/- each
which were held byESOP Trust) [Refer note 22(a)]
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
360.59
March 31, 2024
360.93

Dividends not recognised at the end of the reporting period

The Board of Directors of the Company at its meeting held on May 27, 2024 have recommended dividend of H1.25 per share. The proposed dividend is subject to the approval of shareholders in the ensuring annual general meeting and hence not recognised as a liability.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

180 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

59. Investment properties

The Company’s investment properties consist of Thane One Building, Ceejay House and freehold land located at Majiwade Thane and at Takawe. Out of the 16 floors, ground to 13 floors have been considered as Investment property by the Management of which 13 Floor has been sold.

Criteria used for classification of property as investment property

The Company has considered the following for classification of property as investment property:

  • (i) Investment property comprises building and other assets required to provide ancillary services to the occupants of the investment property.

  • (ii) The properties that are not occupied by the Company for use in production or supply of goods or services or for administrative purposes, or for sale in the ordinary course of business, but are held primarily to earn rental income and capital appreciation are classified as investment property.

The Company has a building which is primarily meant for renting is classified as an investment property, except for the part of that building which is used for administrative purposes, and hence classified as owner-occupied property. The Company has apportioned the cost of the property between investment property and owner-occupied property in the ratio of area used, respectively, as a percentage of total area.

The Company has sold 5 floors part of its Investment in Property consisting of floors sales in Thane One IT/ITES building accordingly, total income on sale of Investment Property for the year ended March 31, 2024 is H2,505.07 lakhs (previous year ended March 31, 2023 H4,772.82 lakhs, 8 floors) and has been recognised as income under the head revenue from operation pertaining to property segment.

Further during the previous year, Mr. Krishna Datla and Ms. Rajeshwari Datla on behalf of the Company entered in to "Memorandum of Understanding" to sell Freehold land located at Village Takwe (Budruk), Tal – Maval District – Pune admeasuring 21.39 Acres, with M/s. D1 Enterprises (as the Proposed Assignor) to and in favour of Nipro Pharmapackaging India Private Limited as the proposed purchaser of said land.

In the current year, the company has partially sold ( 1,40,100 Sq Mtr) freehold land located at Village Takawe not held in the name of the Company. The income on sale of such property for the year ended March 31, 2024 is H3,882.75 Lakhs which has been recognised as income under the head revenue from operations pertaining to property segment. Company has received advance of H329.20 lakhs (net of tax). (as at March 31. 2023 H841.50 lakhs [net of tax])

Estimation of fair value

The fair value of the Investment Property has been determined in the financial period March 31, 2024 as H6,724.72 Lakhs (March 31, 2023 as H21,626.49 Lakhs). The fair value has been determined by an external, independent property valuer, having appropriate professional qualification and recent experience in the location and category of the property being valued. The Company obtained independent valuation for its investment property and fair value measurement has been categorised as Level 3. The fair value has been arrived at by using comparable market rate approach. The main inputs used are quantum, area, location, demand, restrictive entry to the complex, age of building and trend of fair market rent in village Majiwada area and Takawe area.

Amount recognised in Standalone statement of profit and loss

Amount recognised in Standalone statement of proft and loss
Particulars
Income from investmentproperties
Rent and Service Income
Sale ofproperties
Less: Direct operating expenses (including repairs and maintenance) generating
income from investmentproperties
Income arisingfrom investmentproperties
Less: Depreciation
Income arising from investmentproperties after depreciation
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,530.54
4,772.82
674.51
5,628.85
(259.95)
5,368.89
March 31, 2024
986.33
6,387.82
832.13
6,542.02
(18.08)
6,523.94

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Refer note 46(B) for operating lease arrangements and total future minimum lease rentals receivable

Refer note 24 for the existence of restrictions on the realisability of investment property or the remittance of income and proceeds of disposal

Refer note 62 for deposit received against the signed Binding Term Sheet and grant of development rights to Mextech for construction of residential-cum-comercial buildings in the balance portion of Thane land.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 181

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

60. Share-based payments

Employee share option plan of the Company

1.1 Details of the employee share option plan of the Company

This ESOP 2019 scheme has been framed pursuant to the Scheme of Amalgamation between the erstwhile Fermenta Biotech Limited (“Transferor Company”) with the DIL Limited (“Transferee Company”) and their respective shareholders. The Transferor Company prior to the Scheme of Amalgamation had implemented the ‘Fermenta Biotech Limited - Employee Stock Option Plan 2019’ and were granted employee stock options to its eligible employees. Further, the number of transferee options issued shall equal to the product of number of transferor options outstanding on effectiveness of Scheme multiplied by the Share exchange ratio (0.398) and each transferee option shall have an exercise price per equity share equal to transferor option exercise price per equity shares divided by the share exchange ratio (0.398) and fractions rounded off to the next higher whole number. The terms and conditions of ESOP 2019 Scheme of DIL Limited are not less favourable than those of ESOP Scheme of erstwhile Fermenta Biotech Limited. Under the ESOP 2019 Scheme, stock options have been issued to the eligible employees of erstwhile Fermenta Biotech Limited.

In accordance with the terms of the plan, as approved by the erstwhile shareholders of Fermenta Biotech Limited at an extra general meeting, executives and senior employees with the Company were granted options to purchase equity shares.

Each employee share option converts into one equity share of the Company on exercise. No amounts are paid or payable by the recipient on receipt of the option. The options carry neither rights to dividends nor voting rights. Options may be exercised at any time from the date of vesting to the date of their expiry.

The number of options granted is calculated in accordance with the performance-based formula and is subject to approval by the remuneration committee. The formula rewards executives and senior employees to the extent of the Company's and the individual's achievement judged against both qualitative and quantitative criteria.

The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:

The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:
(Hin Lakhs)
The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:
(Hin Lakhs)
The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:
(Hin Lakhs)
The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:
(Hin Lakhs)
The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:
(Hin Lakhs)
The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:
(Hin Lakhs)
Options series Number Grant date Expiry date Exercise price Fair value at
grant date
Plan 1 (60% of options
granted under ESOP 2019)
1,01,614 25.02.2019, 12.08.2019
and 01.09.2020
25.02.2025, 12.08.2025
and 28.02.2025
83.67 421.71 and
298.16
Plan 1 (20% of options
granted under ESOP 2019)
49,526 25.02.2019, 12.08.2019
and 01.09.2020
25.02.2026, 12.08.2026
and 28.02.2026
83.67 421.71 and
298.16
Plan 1 (20% of options
granted under ESOP 2019)
28,270 25.02.2019, 12.08.2019
and 01.09.2020
25.02.2027, 12.08.2027
and 28.02.2027
83.67 421.71 and
298.16
Plan 2 (100% of options
granted under ESOP 2019)
2,17,410 25.02.2019 25.02.2025 83.67 418.22

Options granted under ESOP 2019 shall vest not before 1 (one) year and not later than maximum Vesting Period of 5 (five) years from the date of grant of such Options. Subject to the minimum vesting period of one year, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee of the Board at its discretion approve for acceleration of Vesting of any or all unvested Options of the Option Grantee.

The above number of options, fair value at grant dates and exercise price were adjusted in accordance with the Share exchange ratio (0.398:1) as per the scheme of amalgamation.

The above number of options, were adjusted for the Forfeited/ cancallation of option for fullment of year end assessment of ESOP vesting conditions.

182 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

60. Share-based payments(Contd.)

1.2 Fair Price of share options granted

The weighted average fair Price of the share options granted during the financial year is Nil (previous year Nil). Options were priced using Black-Scholes option pricing model. Where relevant, the expected life used in the model has been calculated based on a weighted average of vests. Expected volatility is based on the historical share price information of similar listed entities.

Inputs into the model Option series Option series Option series Option series
Plan 1 (60% of
options granted
under ESOP 2019)
Plan 1 (20% of
options granted
under ESOP 2019)
Plan 1 (20% of
options granted
under ESOP 2019)
Plan 2 (100% of
options granted
under ESOP 2019)
Grant date shareprice (H) 298.16 and 298.16 298.16 and 298.16 298.16 and 298.16 418.22
Exerciseprice (H) 83.67 83.67 83.67 83.67
Expected volatility 69.28% and 65.33% 68.83% and 61.84% 68.08% and 60.02% 69.28%
Option life 4.51years and 4years 5.51years and 5years 6.51years and 6years 4.51years
Dividendyield 0% and 0.57% 0% and 0.57% 0% and 0.57% 0.00%
Risk-free interest rate 7.14% and 5.22% 7.25% and 5.53% 7.35% and 5.78% 7.14%

1.3 Movements in share options during the year

The following reconciles the share options outstanding at the beginning and end of the year:

Particulars
Balance at beginningofyear
Granted duringtheyear
Forfeited duringtheyear
Bonus options issued duringtheyear
Exercised duringtheyear
Expired duringtheyear
Balance at end ofyear
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Number of
options
Weighted average
exerciseprice
3,96,821
83.67
-
-
62,758
-
-
-
9,981
-
-
-
3,24,082
-
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Number of
options
Weighted average
exerciseprice
3,96,821
83.67
-
-
62,758
-
-
-
9,981
-
-
-
3,24,082
-
March 31, 2024
Number of
options
Weighted average
exerciseprice
Weighted average
exerciseprice
3,24,082 83.67 83.67
- - -
- - -
- - -
16,804 - -
- - -
3,07,278 - -

The number of options, were adjusted for the Forfeited /cancellation of option for fulfillment of year end assessment of ESOP vesting conditions.

1.4 Share options outstanding at the end of the year

The share options outstanding at the end of the year had a weighted average exercise price of H83.67 (as at March 31, 2023: H83.67), and a weighted average remaining contractual life of Nil year.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 183

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

61. Ratio

(H in Lakhs)

61. Ratio (Hin Lakhs)
Ratio Numerator Denominator March 31, March 31, % Variance Reason for variance
2024 2023 #
Current Ratio 23,822.77 16,088.89 1.48 1.19 24.37 Due to better realisation
of inventory and trade
receivables and repayment
of borrowings
(25,331.82) (21,261.65)
Debt-Equity Ratio 13,232.72 31,422.61 0.42 0.65 (35.38) Improvement due to early
repayment of debts
(21,679.58) (33,605.70)
Debt Service 3,132.98 3,944.49 0.79 0.92 (14.13) *
Coverage Ratio (4,818.78) (5,260.18)
Return on Equity (974.33) 32,514.16 (0.03) 0.01 (400.00) Due to Improvement in
Ratio proftability
(258.60) (36,601.45)
Inventory turnover 30,709.04 9,417.72 3.26 2.75 18.55 *
Ratio (32,891.45) (11,966.39)
Trade Receivables 30,709.04 8,711.01 3.53 3.24 19.72 *
turnover Ratio (32,891.45) (10,159.91)
Trade payables 7,239.09 5,246.98 1.38 2.20 (37.27) Due to decrease of trade
turnover Ratio creditperiod
(10,910.30) (4,954.11)
Net capital turnover 30,709.04 7,733.88 3.97 8.08 (50.87) Due to Improvement of net
Ratio workingcapital
(32,891.45) (4,070.17)
Net proft Ratio (1,874.33) 30,709.04 (0.06) (0.17) (64.71) Due to Improvement in
proftability
(5,700.32) 32,891.45
Return on Capital 2,144.45 44,113.05 0.05 0.04 25.00 Due to Improvement in
employed proftability
(2,241.40) (54,230.41)
Return on investment Not applicable

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

  • Ratio variance below threshold limit defined as per Schedule III of Companies Act 2013.
Current Ratio : Current Assets/ Current Liabilities
Debt – Equity Ratio : Total Debt/Shareholder’s Equity
Debt Service Coverage Ratio : Earnings available for debt service/Debt Service
Earning for Debt Service = Proft /(loss) after Tax before Exceptional Items + Non-cash operating
expenses like depreciation and other amortizations + Interest + other adjustments like loss on sale
of Fixed assets etc.
Debt service = Interest & Lease Payments + Principal Repayments

184 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

61. Ratio (Contd.)

61. Ratio(Contd.)
Current Ratio : Current Assets/ Current Liabilities
Return on Equity (ROE) : Net Profts/(loss) after taxes before Exceptional Items – Preference Dividend (if any)/Average
Shareholder’s Equity
Inventory Turnover Ratio : Cost of goods sold OR sales/ Average Inventory
Average inventory is (Opening + Closing balance) / 2
Trade receivables turnover Ratio : Net Credit Sales/ Avg. Accounts Receivable
Net credit sales consist of gross credit sales minus sales return. Trade receivables includes sundry
debtors and bills receivables
Average trade debtors = (Opening + Closing balance) / 2
Trade payables turnover Ratio : Net Credit Purchases/ Average Trade Payables
Net capital turnover Ratio : Net Sales / Working Capital
Net sales shall be calculated as total sales minus sales returns.
Working Capital shall be calculated as Current assets minus Current liabilities.
Net proft Ratio : Net Proft/ Net Sales
Net proft shall be after tax before exceptional items
Net sales shall be calculated as total sales minus sales returns.
Return on capital employed (ROCE) : Earning before interest and taxes and exceptional items/Capital Employed
Capital Employed = Tangible Net Worth + Total Debt + Deferred Tax Liability

62. The Company (‘Fermenta’) has signed a Binding Term Sheet on January 31, 2022 with Mextech Property Developers LLP (‘Mextech’) and granted development rights to Mextech for construction of residential-cum-comercial buildings in the balance portion of Thane land. In lieu of this the Company would receive residential flats on an area sharing basis aggregating 120,000 square feet RERA carpet area along with amenities. The Company has accordingly received H1,500 lakhs as a deposit from Mextech.

63. Relationship with Struck off companies

63. Relationship with Struck of companies
Name of struck of Company
Nature of transactions
with struck-of
Company
Jaansi Sampark Consultancy
Trade Payables
Janak Laboratories Ltd.
Trade Receivables
BombayRayon Fashions Ltd.
Trade Receivables
(Hin Lakhs)
As at
March 31, 2023 #
Relationship with the
Struck of company, if
any, to be disclosed
5.28
None
-
None
-
None
Name of struck of Company As at
March 31, 2024
Relationship with the
Struck of company, if
any, to be disclosed
Jaansi Sampark Consultancy 5.28 None
Janak Laboratories Ltd. 3.41 None
BombayRayon Fashions Ltd. 0.23 None

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

64. Capitalisation of borrowing costs

During the year ended March 31, 2024, the Company capitalised the following borrowing costs attributable to qualifying assets to the cost of property, plant and equipment / capital work-in-progress (CWIP). Consequently, finance costs disclosed under note 39 are net of amounts capitalised by the Company.

Particulars
Finance costs (Includingforex revaluation)
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
97.07
97.07
March 31, 2024
108.74
108.74

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 185

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

65. The President has given his assent to the Code on Social Security, 2020 (“Code”) in September 2020. On November 13, 2020 the Ministry of Labour and Employment released draft rules for the Code. However, the date on which the Code will come into effect has not been notified. The Company will assess the impact once the subject rules are notified and will give appropriate impact to its financial statements in the period in which the Code becomes effective.

66. Events after the reporting period: The company has evaluated subsequent events from the date through May 27, 2024, the date at which the financial statements were available to be issued and determined that there are no material items to disclose.

67. The Company has used accounting software for maintaining its books of account which has a feature of recording audit trail (edit log) facility and the same has operated throughout the year for all relevant transactions recorded in the software, except that audit trail feature is not enabled for direct changes to data for users with certain privileged access rights to the accounting software or the underlying database. Further no instance of audit trail feature being tampered with was noted in respect of the accounting software where audit trail has been enabled.

68. Quarterly returns and statements of current assets for loans taken from Banks and Financial Institutions on the basis of security of current assets are filed by the Company with banks and Financial Institutions are in agreement with the books of accounts no such variations found further, HDFC Bank and Yes Bank has accepted the non-compliance of debt covenant and relaxed any penal provisions via email dated March 28, 2024 and March 26, 2024 and accordingly the borrowings are disclosed in the financial statements as non current borrowings for the year ended March 31, 2024. (refer note 24 and 28).

69. Exceptional item
Particulars
Inventory
Trade Receivables
Investment in subsidiary
Other advances
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,940.54
2,280.03
831.21
907.14
5,958.92
March 31, 2024
-
-
900.00
-
900.00

The overall business of animal feed of the Company has considerably reduced as compared to the expectation on account of subdued global demands. Basis the earlier expectation of the Company of the animal feeds business, the Company had kept stock of semi-finished goods to be used for the production of such animal feed. Considering the immediate uncertainty on the recovery of animal feed global demand, as a prudency the Company had made provisions against the said inventory. Further, the company made provision against investments, recoverable of expenses and trade receivable from Ferment Biotech GmbH (wholly owned Subsidiary dealing in animal feed business) and other parties for the previous year ended March 31, 2023.

During the current year, considering the prolonged subdued global demands, the Company had revisited its projected future cash flows from its subsidiary Fermenta USA LLC and has determined the value in use of its investments in the said subsidiary. Accordingly, a provision for impairment of investment of H900 lakhs was recorded as an exceptional item in the year ended March 31, 2024.

70. Merger of amongst DVK Investments Private Limited (Holding Company) and Aegean Properties Limited (Wholly owned subsidiary) with Fermenta Biotech Limited

Pursuant to scheme of Merger by Absorption under section 230-232 of the Companies Act, 2013, between the Company, its Holding Company DVK Investments Private Limited {DVK} and wholly owned subsidiary Company Aegean Properties Limited {Agean} (transferor companies) sanctioned by National Company Law Tribunal by virtue of its order dated May 8, 2023 and the certified copies of such approved scheme was submitted with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), Mumbai on May 24,2023, which is considered as the appointed date and effective date of the merger as per the Scheme. The transferor companies have merged into the Company on a going concern basis from the appointed date of the scheme i.e. May 24, 2023.

The arrangement have been accounted in the books of account of the Company in accordance with Ind AS 103 and considering that the transferor companies are ultimately controlled by the same promoters both before and after the business combination, the said transaction is a common control transaction and has been accounted under pooling of interest method.

186 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Pursuant to the Scheme, 1,50,75,318 no. of shares held by DVK Investments Private Limited has been cancelled and equivalent shares have been allotted to the shareholders of DVK Investments Private Limited on June 3, 2023 in the ratio of their holding in DVK Investments Private Limited.

Accordingly, the comparative financial information of the Company for the year ended March 31, 2023 included in these standalone financial statements along with the notes to accounts and disclosure have been adjusted to give effect of the merger of transferor companies with effect from the date when such entities came under common control. Following the common control accounting guidance the financial statements of the following companies have been included in the financial statement of the Company from:

Aegean - April 1, 2022 DVK - April 1, 2022

The impact of the merger on the financial statements of the Company is as under: as at April 1, 2022.

The impact of the merger on the fnancial statements of the Company is as under: as at Apri The impact of the merger on the fnancial statements of the Company is as under: as at Apri l 1, 2022. (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Aegean Properties
Limited
DVK Investments
Private Limited
Total
Total Assets (A) 150.46 1,772.10 1,922.56
Total Liability(B) 0.43 0.45 0.88
Net Assets (A-B) {taken over} 150.03 1,771.65 1,921.69
Add: Other reserves {taken over} (120.03) (1,119.49) (1,239.52)
Less : Investment elimination 30.00 1,686.65 1,716.65
Capital Reservepersuant to merger 0.00 (1,034.48) (1,034.48)

The Company has accounted for the merger as per the pooling of interest method retrospectively for all periods presented as prescribed under Ind AS 103 Business Combinations of entities under common control. The previous period/ year numbers have been accordingly restated to give effect of the merger from the date when such entities came under common control. The impact of the merger on these results is as under:

Particulars
Total Assets
Total Liability
Total Equity
Total Income
Proft before Tax
Loss for theyear
Total comprehensive loss for theyear
(Hin Lakhs)
Year ended March
31, 2023 Restated
66,385.66
32,779.96
33,605.70
33,737.66
161.20
(5,700.32)
(5,683.06)
Year ended March
31, 2023 Reported
66,465.70
33,058.61
33,407.09
33,648.05
90.13
(5,753.27)
(5,736.01)

71. Revenue from Contracts with Customer :

1. Disaggregated Revenue Information

Set out below is the dissaggration of the Company’s revenue from contracts with customers;

Particulars
Type ofgoods or services
Sale ofproducts
Sale of services
Rent and Service income from investmentproperties
Sale of investmentproperties
Other operatingincome
Total revenue from contract with customers
(Hin Lakhs)
Year ended
March 31, 2023 #
26,269.34
230.20
1,530.54
4,772.82
88.56
32,891.45
Year ended
March 31, 2024
22,846.06
268.89
986.33
6,387.82
219.95
30,709.04

Annual Report 2023-24 | 187

Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

71. Revenue from Contracts with Customer : (Contd.)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
India
Outside India
Total revenue from contract with customers
Timing of revenue recognition
Goods transferred at apoint in time
Services transferred over time (included in other operatingincome)
Total revenue from contract with customers
Year ended
March 31, 2024
Year ended
March 31, 2023 #
15,860.03
17,031.42
32,891.45
31,042.16
1,849.29
32,891.45
17,416.44
13,292.60
30,709.04
29,233.88
1,475.16
30,709.04

2. Contract balances

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Trade receivables
Contract Assets
Contract liabilities
Deferred Revenue
Year ended
March 31, 2024
Year ended
March 31, 2023 #
8,537.21
321.98
9.53
894.40
8,884.81
314.99
30.01
1,846.74

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 70)

72. Previous year figures have been re-grouped /re-classified wherever necessary

73. Other Statutory Information

  • (i) The Company does not have any Benami property, where any proceeding has been initiated or pending against the Company for holding any Benami property

  • (ii) The Company does not have any charges or satisfaction which is yet to be registered with ROC beyond the statutory period

  • (iii) The Company has not traded or invested in Crypto currency or Virtual Currency during the financial year

  • (iv) The Company has not revalued its property, plant and equipment (including right-of-use assets) or intangible assets during the year ended 31[st] March,2024.

74. The Standalone financial statements were approved for issue by the Board of Directors on May 27, 2024.

As per our report of even date

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

per Poonam Todarwal

Partner Membership No. 136454

Krishna Datla

Executive Vice-Chairman DIN 00003247

Prashant Nagre

Managing Director DIN 09165447

Thane, May 27, 2024

Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Officer Thane, May 27, 2024

Srikant N. Sharma Company Secretary

188 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Independent Auditor’s Report

To The Members of Fermenta Biotech Limited

Report on the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements

Opinion

We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Fermenta Biotech Limited (hereinafter referred to as “the Holding Company”), its subsidiaries (the Holding Company and its subsidiaries together referred to as “the Group”) and its associate comprising of the consolidated Balance sheet as at March 31 2024, the consolidated Statement of Profit and Loss, including other comprehensive income, the consolidated Cash Flow Statement and the consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the year then ended, and notes to the consolidated financial statements, including a summary of material accounting policies and other explanatory information (hereinafter referred to as “the consolidated financial statements”).

In our opinion and to the best of our information and according to the explanations given to us and based on the consideration of reports of other auditors on separate financial statements and on the other financial information of the subsidiaries and associate, the aforesaid consolidated financial statements give the information required by the Companies Act, 2013, as amended (“the Act”) in the manner so required and give a true and fair view in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in India, of the consolidated state of affairs of the Group and its associate as at March 31, 2024, their consolidated loss including other comprehensive loss, their consolidated cash flows and the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year ended on that date.

Basis for Opinion

We conducted our audit of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with the Standards on Auditing (SAs), as specified under section 143(10) of the Act. Our responsibilities under those Standards are further described in the ‘Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit

of the Consolidated Financial Statements’ section of our report. We are independent of the Group, associate, in accordance with the ‘Code of Ethics’ issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India together with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements under the provisions of the Act and the Rules thereunder, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements and the Code of Ethics. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion on the consolidated financial statements.

Key Audit Matters

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the consolidated financial statements for the financial year ended March 31, 2024. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the consolidated financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. For each matter below, our description of how our audit addressed the matter is provided in that context.

We have determined the matters described below to be the key audit matters to be communicated in our report. We have fulfilled the responsibilities described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the consolidated financial statements section of our report, including in relation to these matters. Accordingly, our audit included the performance of procedures designed to respond to our assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements. The results of audit procedures performed by us and by other auditors of components not audited by us, as reported by them in their audit reports furnished to us by the management, including those procedures performed to address the matters below, provide the basis for our audit opinion on the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Key audit matters How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Recoverability of Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) credit entitlement included under deferred tax assets (as described in Note 59 of the
consolidated fnancial statements)
The Parent Company has recognised deferred tax assets
amounting toH4,089.03 lakh representing Minimum
Alternate Tax (MAT) credit entitlement, pursuant to the
provisions of Section 115JB of the Income-tax Act, 1961
and related rules.
Our audit procedures included the following:

Evaluated the Group’s accounting policies with respect to recognition of
deferred taxes in accordance with Ind AS 12 “Income Taxes”.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 189

Key audit matters

Unused tax credits in the form of MAT credits is recognized to the extent there is convincing evidence that sufficient taxable profits will be available in the future against which such MAT credit can be utilized.

The recoverability of such MAT credit entitlement is considered as a key audit matter as it involves significant management judgement including accounting estimates relating to profitability forecasts, availability of sufficient taxable income in the future and recoverability within the specified period of time.

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

  • Evaluated the design and implementation and tested the operating effectiveness of key internal financial controls related to the assessment of recoverability of MAT credit entitlement.

  • � Obtained and analysed the future projections of taxable profits estimated by management and assessed the key assumptions used and the reasonableness of the future cash flow projections.

  • Assessed the sensitivity analysis applied by the Group and evaluated if any change in the assumptions will lead to any material change utilisation of the MAT credit entitlement.

  • Assessed the adequacy of disclosures made in the consolidated financial statements

Provision for Inventory obsolescence (as described in Note 15 of the consolidated financial statements

As at March 31, 2024, the carrying amount of inventories amounted to H8,738.42 lakh after considering allowances for Inventory

Inventories are carried at lower of cost and net realisable value in accordance with the accounting policy of the Group.

The Group makes provision for inventory based on category of products, experience, age of Inventory, current trend and future expectations of forecast inventory demand, product expiry dates, estimates for future selling price and plans to dispose of inventories that are close to expiry.

The provision for inventory obsolescence has been considered as a key audit matter, as determination of provision for inventory involves significant management judgment and estimates.

Our audit procedures included the following:

  • Obtained an understanding of management’s process to identify slowmoving, obsolete and other non-saleable inventory, and process of consequent measurement of required provision for obsolescence.

  • � Evaluated the design, implementation and tested the operating effectiveness of key controls that the Group has in relation to aforesaid process

  • For the provisions made in respect of expired or near expiry inventory balances, tested such identification from the batch-wise expiry information and reperformed computations to validate the accuracy and completeness of such provision estimates

  • � For provisions made in respect of slow moving and non-saleable Inventory, discussed with management the triggers taken into account for such identification and evaluated the same in view of our understanding of the business and industry conditions. Assessed the management’s estimates regarding the expected timing by which the balance inventory of aforesaid specific products would be sold basis past trends and market conditions. Further, reperformed computations to validate the accuracy and completeness of such provision estimates. Also compared carrying cost to recent sales or to the estimated selling price applied in assessing the Net Realizable Value.

� Assessed the adequacy of disclosures made in the consolidated financial statements

Other Information

The Holding Company’s Board of Directors is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual report, but does not include the consolidated financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The report is expected to be made available to us after the date of this auditor's report.

Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we will not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information identified above when it becomes available and, in doing so, consider whether such other information is materially inconsistent with the consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

190 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Responsibilities of Management for the Consolidated Financial Statements

The Holding Company’s Board of Directors is responsible for the preparation and presentation of these consolidated financial statements in terms of the requirements of the Act that give a true and fair view of the consolidated financial position, consolidated financial performance including other comprehensive income, consolidated cash flows and consolidated statement of changes in equity of the Group including its associate in accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in India, including the Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) specified under section 133 of the Act read with the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015, as amended. The respective Board of Directors of the companies included in the Group and of its associate are responsible for maintenance of adequate accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Act for safeguarding of the assets of their respective companies and for preventing and detecting frauds and other irregularities; selection and application of appropriate accounting policies; making judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and the design, implementation and maintenance of adequate internal financial controls, that were operating effectively for ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the accounting records, relevant to the preparation and presentation of the consolidated financial statements that give a true and fair view and are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, which have been used for the purpose of preparation of the consolidated financial statements by the Directors of the Holding Company, as aforesaid.

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the respective Board of Directors of the companies included in the Group and of its associate are responsible for assessing the ability of their respective companies to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.

Those respective Board of Directors of the companies included in the Group and of its associate are also responsible for overseeing the financial reporting process of their respective companies.

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with SAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these consolidated financial statements.

As part of an audit in accordance with SAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:

  • Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

  • Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances. Under section 143(3)(i) of the Act, we are also responsible for expressing our opinion on whether the Holding Company has adequate internal financial controls with reference to financial statements in place and the operating effectiveness of such controls.

  • Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management.

  • Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the Group and its associate to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Group and its associate to cease to continue as a going concern.

  • Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the consolidated financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

  • Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within the Group and its associate of which we are the independent auditors and whose financial information we have audited, to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the audit of the financial statements of such entities included in the consolidated financial statements of which we are the independent auditors. For the other entities included in the consolidated financial statements, which have been audited by other auditors, such other auditors remain responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of

Annual Report 2023-24 | 191

the audits carried out by them. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.

We communicate with those charged with governance of the Holding Company and such other entities included in the consolidated financial statements of which we are the independent auditors regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable, related safeguards.

From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the audit of the consolidated financial statements for the financial year ended March 31, 2024 and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor’s report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a matter should not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication.

Other Matter

  • (a) We did not audit the financial statements and other financial information, in respect of 3 subsidiaries whose financial statements include total assets of H1,884.08 lakh as at March 31, 2024, and total revenues of H3,529.67 lakh and net cash outflows of H10.59 lakh for the year ended on that date. These financial statement and other financial information have been audited by other auditors, which financial statements, other financial information and auditor’s reports have been furnished to us by the management. Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, in so far as it relates to the amounts and disclosures included in respect of these subsidiaries and our report in terms of sub-sections (3) of Section 143 of the Act, in so far as it relates to the aforesaid subsidiaries, is based solely on the reports of such other auditors.

  • (b) The accompanying consolidated financial statements include unaudited financial statements and other unaudited financial information in respect of 2 subsidiaries whose financial statements and other financial information reflect total assets of H42.30 lakh as at March 31, 2024, and total revenues of HNil lakh and net cash inflows of H Nil lakh for the year ended on that date. These unaudited financial statements and other unaudited financial information have been furnished to us by the management.

  • (c) The consolidated financial statements also include the Group's share of net loss of H Nil lakh for the year ended March 31, 2024, as considered in the consolidated financial statements,

in respect of 1 associate, whose financial statements, other financial information have not been audited and whose unaudited financial statements, other unaudited financial information have been furnished to us by the Management.

Our opinion, in so far as it relates amounts and disclosures included in respect of these subsidiaries and associate and our report in terms of sub-sections (3) of Section 143 of the Act in so far as it relates to the aforesaid subsidiaries and associate, is based solely on such unaudited financial statements and other unaudited financial information. In our opinion and according to the information and explanations given to us by the Management, these financial statements and other financial information are not material to the Group.

Our opinion above on the consolidated financial statements, and our report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements below, is not modified in respect of the above matters with respect to our reliance on the work done and the reports of the other auditors and the financial statements and other financial information certified by the Management.

  • (d) In connection with the merger of erstwhile Holding Company as more fully described in note 67 to the consolidated financial statements, we did not audit the comparative financial statements of such erstwhile Holding Company as considered in these consolidated financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2023, whose financial statements reflects before intercompany eliminations total revenues of H278.44 lakhs, total net profit after tax of H230.68 lakhs and total comprehensive income H230.68 lakhs for the year ended March 31,2023.

These financial statements have been audited by the independent auditor of such erstwhile Holding Company and auditor’s reports have been furnished to us by the Management. Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, in so far as it relates to the amounts and disclosures included in respect of the erstwhile Holding Company, is based solely on the report of independent auditor of such company as adjusted for the accounting effects of the Scheme recorded by the Company (in particular, the accounting effects of IND AS 103- Business Combinations and other consequential adjustments which has been audited by us.

Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter.

Report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements

  1. As required by the Companies (Auditor’s Report) Order, 2020 (“the Order”), issued by the Central Government of India in terms of sub-section (11) of section 143 of the Act, we give in the “Annexure 1” a statement on the matters specified in paragraph 3(xxi) of the Order.

  2. As required by Section 143(3) of the Act, based on our audit and on the consideration of report of the other auditors on separate financial statements and the other financial information of subsidiaries and associate, as noted in the ‘other matter’ paragraph] we report, to the extent applicable, that:

192 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

  • (a) We/the other auditors whose report we have relied upon have sought and obtained all the information and explanations which to the best of our knowledge and belief were necessary for the purposes of our audit of the aforesaid consolidated financial statements;

  • (b) In our opinion, proper books of account as required by law relating to preparation of the aforesaid consolidation of the financial statements have been kept so far as it appears from our examination of those books except for the matters stated in the paragraph (i)(vi) below on reporting under Rule 11(g);

  • (c) The Consolidated Balance Sheet, the Consolidated Statement of Profit and Loss including the Statement of Other Comprehensive Income, the Consolidated Cash Flow Statement and Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity dealt with by this Report are in agreement with the books of account maintained for the purpose of preparation of the consolidated financial statements;

  • (d) In our opinion, the aforesaid consolidated financial statements comply with the Accounting Standards specified under Section 133 of the Act, read with Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015, as amended;

  • (e) On the basis of the written representations received from the directors of the Holding Company as on March 31, 2024 taken on record by the Board of Directors of the Holding Company, none of the directors of the Group’s company incorporated in India, is disqualified as on March 31, 2024 from being appointed as a director in terms of Section 164 (2) of the Act;

  • (f) The modification relating to the maintenance of accounts and other matters connected therewith are as stated in the paragraph (b) above on reporting under Section 143(3)(b) and paragraph (i)(vi) below on reporting under Rule 11(g);

  • (g) With respect to the adequacy of the internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements of the Holding Company, and the operating effectiveness of such controls, refer to our separate Report in “Annexure 2” to this report;

  • (h) In our opinion, the managerial remuneration for the year ended March 31, 2024 has been paid / provided by the Holding Company incorporated in India to their directors in accordance with the provisions of section 197 read with Schedule V to the Act;

  • (i) With respect to the other matters to be included in the Auditor’s Report in accordance with Rule 11 of the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014, as amended, in our opinion and to the best of our information and according to the explanations given to us and based on the consideration of the report of the other auditors on

separate financial statements as also the other financial information of the subsidiaries and associate, as noted in the ‘Other matter’ paragraph:

  • i. The consolidated financial statements disclose the impact of pending litigations on its consolidated financial position of the Group and its associate in its consolidated financial statements – Refer Note 63 to the consolidated financial statements;

  • ii. The Group and its associate did not have any material foreseeable losses in long-term contracts including derivative contracts during the year ended March 31, 2024;

  • iii. There has been no delay in transferring amounts, required to be transferred, to the Investor Education and Protection Fund by the Holding Company during the year ended March 31, 2024.

  • iv. a) The management of the Holding Company whose financial statements have been audited under the Act have represented to us that, to the best of its knowledge and belief, no funds have been advanced or loaned or invested (either from borrowed funds or share premium or any other sources or kind of funds) by the Holding Company to or in any other persons or entities, including foreign entities (“Intermediaries”), with the understanding, whether recorded in writing or otherwise, that the Intermediary shall, whether, directly or indirectly lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Holding Company (“Ultimate Beneficiaries”) or provide any guarantee, security or the like on behalf of the Ultimate Beneficiaries;

  • b) The management of the Holding Company whose financial statements have been audited under the Act have represented to us, to the best of its knowledge and belief, no funds have been received by the Holding Company from any persons or entities, including foreign entities (“Funding Parties”), with the understanding, whether recorded in writing or otherwise, that the Holding Company shall whether, directly or indirectly, lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Funding Party (“Ultimate Beneficiaries”) or provide any guarantee, security or the like on behalf of the Ultimate Beneficiaries; and

  • c) Based on the audit procedures that have been considered reasonable and appropriate in the circumstances performed by us whose financial statements have been audited under the Act,

Annual Report 2023-24 | 193

nothing has come to our or other auditor’s notice that has caused us to believe that the representations under sub-clause (a) and (b) contain any material mis-statement.

  • v) The final dividend paid by the Holding Company during the year in respect of the same declared for the previous year is in accordance with section 123 of the Act to the extent it applies to payment of dividend.

  • As stated in note 57 to the consolidated financial statements, the Board of Directors of the Holding Company have proposed final dividend for the year which is subject to the approval of the members at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. The dividend declared is in accordance with section 123 of the Act to the extent it applies to declaration of dividend.

  • vi) Based on our examination which included test checks, the Holding Company has used accounting software for maintaining its books of account which has a feature of recording audit trail (edit log) facility

and the same has operated throughout the year for all relevant transactions recorded in the software except that, audit trail feature is not enabled for direct changes to data when using certain privileged access rights, as described in note 74 to the consolidated financial statements. Further, during the course of our audit we did not come across any instance of audit trail feature being tampered with in respect of the accounting software.

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants

ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Place of Signature: Thane Membership Number: 136454 Date: May 27, 2024 UDIN: 24136454BKFOFA3805

194 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Annexure 1 referred to in paragraph 1 under the heading “Report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements” of our report of even date

In terms of the information and explanations sought by us and given by the company and the books of account and records examined by us in the normal course of audit and to the best of our knowledge and belief, we state that:

(xxi) Qualifications or adverse remarks by the auditor in the Companies (Auditors Report) Order (CARO) report of the Holding Company included in the consolidated financial statements are:

Entity Name CIN Holding/ Subsidiary Clause number of the
CARO report which is
qualifed or is adverse
Fermenta Biotech Limited L99999MH1951PLC008485 Holding Company (i) (c)
(iii) (c)
(iii) (d)
(iii) (f)
(vii) (a)

For S R B C & CO LLP Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

Place of Signature: Thane Date: May 27, 2024

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Membership Number: 136454 UDIN: 24136454BKFOFA3805

Annual Report 2023-24 | 195

Annexure 2 to the Independent Auditor’s Report of even date on the Consolidated Financial Statements of Fermenta Biotech Limited

Report on the Internal Financial Controls under Clause (i) of Sub-section 3 of Section 143 of the Companies Act, 2013 (“the Act”)

In conjunction with our audit of the consolidated financial statements of Fermenta Biotech Limited (hereinafter referred to as the “Holding Company”) as of and for the year ended March 31, 2024, we have audited the internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements of the Holding Company incorporated in India, as of that date. There are no subsidiaries which are companies incorporated in India.

Management’s Responsibility for Internal Financial Controls

The Holding Company’s Board of Directors are responsible for establishing and maintaining internal financial controls based on the internal control over financial reporting criteria established by the Holding Company considering the essential components of internal control stated in the Guidance Note on Audit of Internal Financial Controls Over Financial Reporting issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (“ICAI”). These responsibilities include the design, implementation and maintenance of adequate internal financial controls that were operating effectively for ensuring the orderly and efficient conduct of its business, including adherence to the company’s policies, the safeguarding of its assets, the prevention and detection of frauds and errors, the accuracy and completeness of the accounting records, and the timely preparation of reliable financial information, as required under the Companies Act, 2013.

Auditor’s Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Holding Company’s internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with the Guidance Note on Audit of Internal Financial Controls Over Financial Reporting (the “Guidance Note”) and the Standards on Auditing specified under section 143 (10) of the Act, to the extent applicable to an audit of internal financial controls, both, issued by ICAI. Those Standards and the Guidance Note require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether adequate internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial

statements was established and maintained and if such controls operated effectively in all material respects.

Our audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the adequacy of the internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements and their operating effectiveness. Our audit of internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements included obtaining an understanding of internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained and the audit evidence obtained by the other auditors in terms of their reports referred to in the Other Matters paragraph below, is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion on the internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements.

Meaning of Internal Financial Controls With Reference to Consolidated Financial Statements

A company's internal financial control with reference to consolidated financial statements is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal financial control with reference to consolidated financial statements includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

196 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Inherent Limitations of Internal Financial Controls With Reference to Consolidated Financial Statements

Because of the inherent limitations of internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected. Also, projections of any evaluation of the internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements to future periods are subject to the risk that the internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Opinion

In our opinion, the Holding Company, has maintained in all material respects, adequate internal financial controls with reference to consolidated financial statements and such internal financial

controls with reference to consolidated financial statements were operating effectively as at March 31, 2024, based on the internal control over financial reporting criteria established by the Holding Company considering the essential components of internal control stated in the Guidance Note issued by the ICAI.

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Membership Number: 136454 UDIN: 24136454BKFOFA3805

Place of Signature: Thane Date: May 27, 2024

Annual Report 2023-24 | 197

Consolidated Balance Sheet as at March 31, 2024

Notes
ASSETS
Non-current assets
a)
Property, plant and equipment
3
b)
Capital work-in-progress
4
c)
Right-of-use assets
5
d)
Investmentproperty
6A
e)
Goodwill
6B
f)
Other intangible assets
7
g)
Intangible assets under development
8
h)
Investments in an associate
9A
i)
Financial assets
i)
Investments
9B
ii)
Share application money
10
iii)
Loans
11
iv)
Others fnancial assets
12
j)
Deferred tax assets(net)
59C
k)
Non-current tax assets(net)
13
l)
Other non-current assets
14
Total non-current assets
Current assets
a)
Inventories
15
b)
Financial assets
i)
Trade receivables
16
ii)
Cash and cash equivalents
17
iii)
Bank balances other than(ii)above
18
(iv)
Investments
iv)
Loans
19
v)
Other fnancial assets
20
c)
Other current assets
21
d)
Contract Assets
Total current assets
TOTAL ASSETS
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Equity
a)
Equityshare capital
22
b)
Other equity
23
Equity attributable to owners of the Company
Non-controllinginterests
Total equity
Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
a)
Financial liabilities
i)
Borrowings
24
ii)
Lease liabilities
45
iii)Other fnancial liabilities
25
b)
Provisions
26
c)
Other non-current liabilities
27
Total non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
a)
Financial liabilities
i)
Borrowings
28
ii)
Lease liabilities
45
iii)
Tradepayables
A)
Total outstandingdues of micro and small enterprises and;
29 & 64
B)
Total outstandingdues of creditors other than micro and small enterprises
29
iv)
Other fnancial liabilities
30
b)
Other current liabilities
31
c)
Provisions
32
d)
Current tax liabilities(net)
33
e)
Contract Liability
Total current liabilities
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
20,484.95
4,190.25
1,171.45
2,870.85
1,153.04
1,015.23
311.96
-
36.61
-
17.50
2,104.26
3,325.80
1,030.96
636.37
38,349.23
13,013.98
4,164.94
3,529.05
2,303.75
278.07
102.50
33.67
1,554.40
321.98
25,302.34
63,651.57
1,442.87
30,088.51
31,531.38
(274.90)
31,256.48
8,358.90
199.11
108.38
462.46
2,394.40
11,523.25
13,325.62
68.67
280.47
4,299.02
908.34
1,686.79
260.87
32.53
9.53
20,871.84
63,651.57
March 31,2024
23,642.37
161.57
1,543.34
540.68
411.65
715.52
-
-
43.36
-
29.54
399.32
2,199.91
815.00
105.44
30,607.70
8,738.42
6,982.51
2,182.87
3,800.52
-
466.43
87.78
1,601.86
314.99
24,175.38
54,783.08
1,443.71
27,442.39
28,886.10
(369.79)
28,516.31
4,253.60
553.88
353.84
535.46
3,243.92
8,940.70
8,973.49
95.81
237.63
6,252.79
766.33
829.45
106.43
34.13
30.01
17,326.07
54,783.08

See accompanying notes to the Consolidated financial statements 1 to 76

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67) As per our report of even date

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Membership No. 136454

Thane, May 27, 2024

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of

Fermenta Biotech Limited

Krishna Datla

Executive Vice-Chairman DIN 00003247

Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Officer Thane, May 27, 2024

Prashant Nagre Managing Director DIN 09165447

Srikant N. Sharma Company Secretary

198 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Consolidated Statement of Profit and Loss for the year ended March 31, 2024

(H in Lakhs)

Notes
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
70
59
43
43
March 31,2024 March 31, 2023 #
34,994.09
859.59
35,853.68
11,201.59
1,902.46
2,251.40
5,799.87
2,078.23
2,824.75
12,078.22
38,136.52
(2,282.84)
(2,847.68)
(5,130.52)
18.15
(115.57)
280.07
182.65
(5,313.17)
11.16
(164.74)
6.10
(147.48)
(5,460.65)
(5,107.52)
(205.65)
(5,313.17)
(5,255.00)
(205.65)
(5,460.65)
(7.83)
(7.83)
(17.70)
(17.70)
INCOME:
Revenue from operations 33,566.19
Other income 1,180.83
Total Income 34,747.02
EXPENSES:
Cost of materials consumed 7,700.48
Purchases of stock-in-trade 2,701.99
Changes in inventories of fnishedgoods,stock-in-trade and work-in-progress 2,611.46
Employee benefts expense 5,854.79
Finance costs 1,704.60
Depreciation and amortisation expense 2,471.93
Other expenses 11,946.43
Total expenses 34,991.68
Loss before Exceptional Items and tax (244.66)
Exceptional Items (742.64)
Loss before tax (987.30)
Tax expense/(Income):
Current tax 168.02
Adjusment of tax related to earlieryears 1,245.55
Deferred tax charge -
Total tax expense 1,413.57
Loss for theyear (2,400.87)
Other comprehensive income /(loss) :
Items that will not be reclassifed toproft or loss
Remeasurements of defned beneftplan 12.28
Items that will be reclassifed toproft or loss
Exchange diferences in translating the fnancial statements of foreign
operations
(34.45)
Net fair value change in investment in equity instruments through other
comprehensive income
6.75
Total other comprehensive loss for theyear (15.42)
Total comprehensive loss for theyear (2,416.29)
Loss for theyear attributable to:
- Owners of the Company (2,305.98)
- Non-controllinginterests (94.89)
(2,400.87)
Total comprehensive loss for theyear attributable to:
- Owners of the Company (2,321.40)
- Non-controllinginterests (94.89)
(2,416.29)
Earnings per equity share ofH5 each before exceptional items
Basic(inH) (5.42)
Diluted(inH) (5.42)
Earnings per equity share ofH5 each after exceptional items
Basic(inH) (7.99)
Diluted(inH) (7.99)

See accompanying notes to the Consolidated financial statements 1 to 76

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67) As per our report of even date

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

per Poonam Todarwal Partner Membership No. 136454

Krishna Datla

Executive Vice-Chairman DIN 00003247

Prashant Nagre

Managing Director DIN 09165447

Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Officer Thane, May 27, 2024

Srikant N. Sharma

Company Secretary

Thane, May 27, 2024

Annual Report 2023-24 | 199

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement for the year ended March 31, 2024

Particulars
A.
Cash fows from operating activities
Loss after Exceptional Items and before tax
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and amortisation expenses
Net unrealised foreign exchange Loss / (gain)
Gain on sale / write of of property, plant and equipment and investment
property(net)
Proceeds on sale of Investment Property
Allowance for doubtful debts
Expenses charged/(reversed) on Employee Stock Option
Finance costs
Interest income
Unwindingof interest on fnancial assets carried at amortised cost
Dividend income
Liabilities /provisions no longer required written back
Trade receivables and advances written of
Net (gain) / loss on fair value changes of derivatives measured at FVTPL
Exceptional items
Operating proft before working capital changes
Movements in working capital:
(Increase) / Decrease in trade receivables
Decrease in inventories
Decrease / (Increase) in other assets
Increase / (decrease) in tradepayables
(Decrease) / Increase inprovisions
(Decrease)/ Increase in other liabilities
Cashgenerated from operations
Income taxes (paid) (Net of refund)
Net cashgenerated from operations (A)
B.
Cash fows from investing activities
Payments for purchase of property, plant and equipment, investment property,
capital work-in-progress, intangible assets and intangible assets under
development
Proceeds on sale ofproperty,plant and equipment / Non Current investment
Intercorporate deposits / employee loangiven
Interest received
Proceeds from employee loanplaced
Dividend received
Deposits realised/(placement) with fnancial institution (net)
Withdrawal/(placement) of fxed deposits with bank
Net cash used in investing activities (B)
March 31, 2024
(987.30)
2,471.93
349.75
(6,355.27)
10,167.88
60.64
19.06
1,704.60
(252.03)
(105.28)
(90.36)
(566.55)
24.95
(22.27)
742.64
7,162.39
(3,394.81)
4,275.56
443.14
2,431.88
(93.72)
(391.68)
10,432.75
101.84
10,534.59
(1,920.71)
6.54
(385.00)
246.62
9.02
90.36
278.07
125.36
(1,549.74)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
(987.30) (5,130.52)
2,471.93 2,824.75
349.75 (124.24)
(6,355.27) (4,741.34)
10,167.88 9,217.16
60.64 51.62
19.06 (101.85)
1,704.60 2,078.23
(252.03) (203.54)
(105.28) -
(90.36) (90.63)
(566.55) (351.85)
24.95 478.34
(22.27) 41.01
742.64 2,847.68
7,162.39 6,794.82
(3,394.81) 3,530.72
4,275.56 993.13
443.14 (229.43)
2,431.88 (1,527.12)
(93.72) 41.65
(391.68) 1,686.23
10,432.75 11,290.00
101.84 320.83
10,534.59 11610.83
(1,920.71) (4,048.94)
6.54 4.60
(385.00) (120.00)
246.62 169.55
9.02 2.35
90.36 90.63
278.07 (15.78)
125.36 (1,623.26)
(1,549.74) (5,540.85)

200 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement for the year ended March 31, 2024

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
C.
Cash fows from fnancing activities
Proceeds from non current borrowings
Repayment of non current Borrowings
Proceeds / (repayment) of current borrowings
Finance costpaid
Repayment of Lease Liabilities
Dividendspaid
Net cash used in fnancing activities (C)
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (A)+(B)+(C)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginningof theyear
Cash acquiredpursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of theyear
Components of cash and cash equivalents
Cash on hand
Balances with banks
In current accounts
Deposits with original maturityof less than 3 months
Cash and cash equivalents (Refer note 17)
Cash credit and Bank overdraft facilities (Refer note 28)
Total cash and cash equivalents considered for cash fows
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
3,630.84
(5,395.72)
229.14
(2,054.34)
(127.94)
(419.97)
(4,137.99)
1,931.99
(161.42)
4.89
1,775.46
4.38
3,512.15
12.52
3,529.05
(1,753.59)
1,775.46
305.37
(5,047.81)
(2,181.51)
(1,666.38)
(133.92)
(360.93)
(9,085.18)
(100.33)
1,775.46
-
1,675.13
8.87
2,174.00
-
2,182.87
(507.74)
1,675.13

See accompanying notes to the Consolidated financial statements 1 to 76

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

As per our report of even date

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

per Poonam Todarwal

Partner Membership No. 136454

Krishna Datla

Executive Vice-Chairman DIN 00003247

Prashant Nagre

Managing Director DIN 09165447

Thane, May 27, 2024

Sumesh Gandhi

Chief Financial Officer Thane, May 27, 2024

Srikant N. Sharma

Company Secretary

Annual Report 2023-24 | 201

(a) Equity share capital
(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
Balance at the beginning of the year
1,442.87
1,442.37
Add : Share issued during the year on stock option exercise
0.84
0.50
Balance at the end of the year
1,443.71
1,442.87
(b) Other equity
(Hin Lakhs)
Total Total 35,702.82 85.02 (5,313.17) - 7.85 (419.97) (101.85) (147.48) 0.39 29,813.61 (2,400.87) 3.91 13.24 (360.93) 19.06 (15.42) 27,072.60 # Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)
See accompanying notes to the Consolidated fnancial statements 1 to 76
As per our report of even date
For S R B C & CO LLP
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of
Chartered Accountants
Fermenta Biotech Limited
ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003
per Poonam Todarwal
Krishna Datla
Prashant Nagre
Partner
Executive Vice-Chairman
Managing Director
Membership No. 136454
DIN 00003247
DIN 09165447
Sumesh Gandhi
Srikant N. Sharma
Chief Financial Ofcer
Company Secretary
Thane, May 27, 2024
Thane, May 27, 2024
Non
Controlling
Interest
(68.28) (205.65) - - - (0.97) (274.90) (94.89) - - (369.79)
Attributable
to the
Owners of
the Parent
Company
35,771.10 85.02 (5,107.52) - 7.85 (419.97) (101.85) (147.48) 1.36 30,088.51 (2,305.98) 3.91 13.24 (360.93) 19.06 (15.42) 27,442.39
Items of other
comprehensive income

Equity
instruments
through
OCI
26.29 - - 6.10 32.39 - - - 6.75 39.14

Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
49.83 - - - (164.74) (114.91) - - - (34.45) (149.36)
Reserves and surplus Retained
earnings
32,638.05 820.35 (5,107.52) (419.97) - 11.16 1.36 27,943.43 (2,305.98) (360.93) - 12.28 25288.80
Share options
outstanding
account
1,469.19 - - (42.09) - (101.85) - 1,325.25 - (70.86) - 19.06 - 1,273.45
General
reserve
3,545.80 196.30 - - - - - 3,742.10 - - - - 3,742.10
Unrealised
gain/(loss)
on dilution
(4,242.26) - - - - - (4,242.26) - - - - (4,242.26)
Securities
premium
reserve
- 102.85 - 42.09 7.85 - - - 152.79 70.86 13.24 236.89
Capital
redemption
reserve
70.00 - - - - - 70.00 - - - - 70.00
Capital reserve
pursuant to
amalgamation
1,074.20 (1,034.48) - - - - 39.72 - - - - 39.72
Capital
reserve
1,140.00 - - - - - 1,140.00 - - - - 1,140.00
Particulars Balance as at April 01, 2022 Pursuant to merger (Refer note 67) Loss for the year Transfer to equity share capital on
excerise of options
Premium on issue of equity share on
stock option excerise
Payment of dividend (Gross) Recognition of share based payments Other comprehensive income for the
year
Payment towards aquisition of minority
interest
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # Loss for the year Transfer to equity share capital on
excerise of options
Premium on issue of equity share on
stock option excerise
Payment of dividend (Gross) Recognition of share based payments
Other comprehensive income for the
year
Balance as at March 31, 2024

202 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

1. 1 Corporate information

Fermenta Biotech Limited (Formerly Known as DIL Limited or 'the Parent Company') is a public company domiciled in India and incorporated under the provisions of the Companies Act, 1913. Its shares are listed on Bombay Stock Exchange. The registered office of the Company is located at A- 1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) 400610. The Parent Company is engaged in the business of manufacturing and marketing of chemicals, bulk drugs, enzymes, pharmaceutical formulations and environmental solution products and renting properties. The Parent Company caters to both domestic and international markets. The Parent Company also has strategic investments in subsidiaries / associate companies primarily dealing in manufacturing and marketing bulk drugs and providing services of sporting and health awareness activities / education activities.

1. 2 Scheme of amalgamation

The National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai Bench, has approved the Scheme of Amalgamation amongst DVK Investments Private Limited (Holding Company) and Aegean Properties Limited (Wholly owned subsidiary) with the Company which has been approved by the National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai Bench (NCLT) on May 8, 2023 and the certified copies of such approved scheme was submitted with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), Mumbai on May 24,2023, which is considered as the appointed date and effective date of the merger as per the Scheme.

Accordingly, the effect of the Scheme has been given in these standalone financial statements the year ended March 31, 2024. The figures for the corresponding previous year as presented in these standalone financial statements have been restated to give effect of such amalgamation. The amalgamation has been accounted as common control transaction in accordance with Appendix C of Ind AS 103 ‘Business Combinations’.

Pursuant to the Scheme, 1,50,75,318 no. of shares held by DVK Investments Private Limited has been cancelled and equivalent shares have been allotted to the shareholders of DVK Investments Private Limited on June 3, 2023 in the ratio of their holding in DVK Investments Private Limited.2. Significant accounting policies

2. Significant accounting policies

2.1 Statement of compliance

The consolidated financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in India including Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) prescribed under the section 133 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with rule 3 of the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards)Rules, 2015 (as amended from time to time) and presentation and disclosures requirement of Division II of revised Schedule III of the Companies Act 2013, (Ind AS Compliant Schedule III), as applicable to consolidated financials.

2.2 Basis of preparation and presentation

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except for: (i) certain financial instruments that are measured at fair values at the end of each reporting period; and (ii) defined benefit plan – plan assets that are measured at fair values at the end of each reporting period, as explained in the accounting policies below.

a) Fair Value Measurement

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, regardless of whether that price is directly observable or estimated using another valuation technique. In estimating the fair value of an asset or a liability, the Group takes into account the characteristics of the asset or liability if market participants would take those characteristics into account when pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. Fair value for measurement and/or disclosure purposes in these consolidated financial statements is determined on such a basis, except for leasing transactions that are within the scope of Ind AS 116, share based payment transactions that are within the scope of Ind AS 102 and measurements that have some similarities to fair value but are not fair value, such as net realisable value in Ind AS 2 or value in use in Ind AS 36.

In addition, for financial reporting purposes, fair value measurements are categorised into Level 1, 2, or 3 based on the degree to which the inputs to the fair value measurements are observable and the significance of the inputs to the fair value measurement in its entirety, which are described as follows:

Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can access at the measurement date;

Annual Report 2023-24 | 203

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Level 2 inputs are inputs, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and

Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

(b) Basis of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial statements of the Parent Company, and its subsidiaries as disclosed in Note 47. Control is achieved when the Parent Company:

  • has power over the investee;

  • is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and

  • has the ability to use its power to affect its returns.

Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the Parent Company obtains control over the subsidiary and ceases when the Parent Company loses control of the subsidiary. Specifically, income and expenses of a subsidiary acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the consolidated statement of profit and loss from the date the Parent Company gains control until the date when the Parent Company ceases to control the subsidiary.

Profit or loss and each component or other comprehensive income are attributed to the owners of the Parent Company and to the non-controlling interests. Total comprehensive income of subsidiaries is attributed to the owner of the Parent Company and to the non-controlling interests even if this results in the non-controlling interests having a deficit balance.

When necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to bring their accounting policies into line with the Group's accounting policies.

The financial statements of the Group companies are consolidated on a line-by-line basis and intra-Group balances, transactions including unrealised gain / loss from such transactions and cash flows relating to transactions between members of the Group are eliminated upon consolidation.

(c) Operating cycle

Based on the nature of products / activities of the Group and the normal time between acquisition of assets/liabilities and their realization/settlement in cash and cash equivalents, the Group has determined its operating cycle as twelve months for the purpose of classification of its assets and liabilities as current and non-current.

(d) Changes in the Group's ownership interest in existing subsidiaries

Changes in the Group's ownership interests in subsidiaries that do not result in the Group losing control over the subsidiaries are accounted for as equity transactions. The carrying amounts of the Group's interests and the non-controlling interests are adjusted to reflect the changes in their relative interests in the subsidiaries. Any difference between the amount by which the non-controlling interests are adjusted and the fair value of the consideration paid or received is recognised directly in ‘Other equity’ under ‘gain / (loss) on dilution’ and attributed to owners of the Company.

When the Group loses control of a subsidiary, a gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss and is calculated as the difference between (i) the aggregate of the fair value of the consideration received and the fair value of any retained interest and (ii) the previous carrying amount of the assets (including goodwill), and liabilities of the subsidiary and any non-controlling interests. All amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income in relation to that subsidiary are accounted for as if the Group had directly disposed of the related assets or liabilities of the subsidiary (i.e. reclassified to profit or loss or transferred to another category of equity as specified/ permitted by applicable Ind AS). The fair value of any investment retained in the former subsidiary at the date when control is lost is regarded as the fair value on initial recognition for subsequent accounting under Ind AS 109, or, when applicable, the cost on initial recognition of an investment in an associate or a joint venture.

(e) Goodwill

Goodwill arising on an acquisition of a business is carried at cost as established at the date of acquisition of the business less accumulated losses, if any.

For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Group's cash-generating units (or groups of cashgenerating units) that is expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination.

204 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

A cash-generating unit to which goodwill has been allocated is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently when there is an indication that the unit may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than its carrying amount, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the unit pro-rata based on the carrying amount of each asset in the unit. Any impairment loss for goodwill is recognised directly in profit or loss. An impairment loss recognised for goodwill is not reversed in subsequent periods.

On disposal of the relevant cash-generating unit, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal.

(f) Investments in associates and joint ventures

Associates are those entities over which the Group has significant influence. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the entities but is not control or joint control of those policies.

A joint venture is a joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control of the arrangement have rights to the net assets of the joint arrangement. The joint control is the contractually agreed sharing of control of an arrangement, which exists only when decisions about the relevant activities require unanimous consent of the parties sharing control.

The results and assets and liabilities of associates or joint ventures are incorporated in these consolidated financial statements using the equity method of accounting, except when the investment, or a portion thereof, is classified as held for sale, in which case it is accounted for in accordance with Ind AS 105. Under the equity method, an investment in an associate or a joint venture is initially recognised in the consolidated balance sheet at cost and adjusted thereafter to recognise the Group’s share of the profit or loss and other comprehensive income of the associate or joint venture. Distributions received from an associate or a joint venture reduce the carrying amount of the investment. The carrying value of the Group’s investment includes goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated impairment losses. When the Group’s share of losses of an associate or a joint venture exceeds its interest in that associate or joint venture, the carrying amount of that interest (including any long-term investments) is reduced to zero and the recognition of further losses is discontinued except to the extent that the Group has obligations or has made payments on behalf of the associate or joint venture.

An investment in an associate or a joint venture is accounted for using the equity method from the date on which the investee becomes an associate or a joint venture and discontinues from the date when the investment ceases to be an associate or a joint venture, or when the investment is classified as held for sale. On acquisition of the investment in an associate or a joint venture, any excess of the cost of the investment over the Group's share of the net fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of the investee is recognised as goodwill, which is included within the carrying amount of the investment. Any excess of the Group's share of the net fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities over the cost of the investment, after reassessment, is recognised directly in equity as capital reserve in the period in which the investment is acquired.

After application of the equity method of accounting, the Group determines whether there any is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the net investment in an associate or a joint venture and that event (or events) has an impact on the estimated future cash flows from the net investment that can be reliably estimated. If there exists such an objective evidence of impairment, then it is necessary to recognise impairment loss with respect to the Group's investment in an associate or a joint venture.

When necessary, the entire carrying amount of the investment (including goodwill) is tested for impairment in accordance with Ind AS 36 Impairment of Assets as a single asset by comparing its recoverable amount (higher of value in use and fair value less costs of disposal) with its carrying amount, Any impairment loss recognised forms part of the carrying amount of the investment. Any reversal of that impairment loss is recognised in accordance with Ind AS 36 to the extent that the recoverable amount of the investment subsequently increases.

The Group discontinues the use of the equity method from the date when the investment ceases to be an associate or a joint venture, or when the investment is classified as held for sale. When the Group retains an interest in the former associate or joint venture and the retained interest is a financial asset, the Group measures the retained interest at fair value at that date and the fair value is regarded as its fair value on initial recognition in accordance with Ind AS 109. The difference between the carrying amount of the associate or joint venture at the date the equity method was discontinued, and the fair value of any retained interest and any proceeds from disposing of a part interest in the associate or joint venture is included in the determination of the gain or loss on disposal of the associate or joint venture. In addition, the Group accounts for all amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income in relation to that associate or joint venture on the same basis as would be required if that associate or joint venture had directly disposed of the related assets or liabilities. Therefore, if a gain or loss previously recognised in other

Annual Report 2023-24 | 205

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

comprehensive income by that associate or joint venture would be reclassified to profit or loss on the disposal of the related assets or liabilities, the Group reclassifies the gain or loss from equity to profit or loss (as a reclassification adjustment) when the equity method is discontinued.

The Group continues to use the equity method when an investment in an associate becomes an investment in a joint venture or an investment in a joint venture becomes an investment in an associate. There is no remeasurement to fair value upon such changes in ownership interests.

When the Group reduces its ownership interest in an associate or a joint venture but the Group continues to use the equity method, the Group reclassifies to profit or loss the proportion of the gain or loss that had previously been recognised in other comprehensive income relating to that reduction in ownership interest if that gain or loss would be reclassified to profit or loss on the disposal of the related assets or liabilities.

When a group entity transacts with an associate or a joint venture of the Group, profits and losses resulting from the transactions with the associate or joint venture are recognised in the Group's consolidated financial statements only to the extent of interests in the associate or joint venture that are not related to the Group.

(g) Foreign currencies

Foreign currency transactions

In preparing the financial statements of each individual Group entity, transactions in currencies other than the entity’s functional currency (foreign currencies) are translated at exchange rates at the dates of the transactions. At the end of each reporting period, monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are re-translated at the rates prevailing at that date. Non-monetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are re-translated at the rates prevailing at the date when the fair value was determined. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are not re-translated.

Exchange differences on monetary items are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they arise except for:

  • exchange differences on foreign currency borrowings relating to assets under construction for future productive use, which are included in the cost of those assets when they are regarded as an adjustment to interest costs on those foreign currency borrowings

  • exchange differences on monetary items receivable from or payable to a foreign operation for which settlement is neither planned nor likely to occur (therefore forming part of the net investment in the foreign operation), which are recognised initially in other comprehensive income and reclassified from equity to profit or loss on repayment of the monetary items.

For the purposes of presenting these consolidated financial statements, the assets and liabilities of the Group's foreign operations are translated into Indian Rupees using exchange rates prevailing at the end of each reporting period. Income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates for the period, unless exchange rates fluctuate significantly during that period, in which case the exchange rates at the dates of the transactions are used. Exchange differences arising, if any, are recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity (and attributed to non-controlling interests as appropriate). When a foreign operation is disposed of, the relevant amount in the Foreign Currency Translation Reserve is reclassified to profit or loss.

In addition, in relation to a partial disposal of a subsidiary that includes a foreign operation that does not result in the Group losing control over the subsidiary, the proportionate share of accumulated exchange differences are re-attributed to non-controlling interests and are not recognised in profit or loss. For all other partial disposals (i.e. partial disposals of associates that do not result in the Group losing significant influence), the proportionate share of the accumulated exchange differences is reclassified to profit or loss.

(h) Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets are substantially ready for their intended use or sale.

Interest income earned on the temporary investment of specific borrowing pending their expenditure on qualifying assets is deducted from the borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation.

All other borrowing costs are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they are incurred.

206 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

(i) Employee Benefits

  • i) Short term and other long-term employee benefits:

A liability is recognised for benefits accruing to employees in respect of wages and salaries in the period the related service is rendered at the undiscounted amount of the benefits expected to be paid in exchange for that service. Liabilities recognised in respect of short term employee benefits are measured at the undiscounted amount of the benefits expected to be paid in exchange for the related service.

Liabilities recognised in respect of other long term employee benefits are measured at the present value of the estimated future cash outflows expected to be made by the Group in respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting date.

ii) Termination benefits:

  • A) Defined contribution plans: The Group contributes towards state governed provident fund scheme, employee state insurance scheme (ESIC) and labour welfare fund to all applicable employees and superannuation scheme for eligible employees. The Group has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. Hence payments to defined contribution retirement benefit plans are recognised as an expense when employees have rendered service entitling them to the contributions.

  • B) Defined benefit plan: The employees’ gratuity fund scheme represents the defined benefit plan. The cost of providing benefits is determined using projected unit credit method, with actuarial valuations being carried out at the end of each annual reporting period. Remeasurement, comprising actuarial gains and losses, the effect of changes to the assets (if applicable) and the return on plan assets (excluding net interest), is reflected immediately in the balance sheet with a charge or credit recognised in other comprehensive income in the period in which they occur. Remeasurement recognised in other comprehensive income is reflected immediately in retained earnings and is not reclassified to profit or loss. Past service cost is recognised in profit or loss in the period of a plan amendment. Net interest is calculated by applying the discount rate at the beginning of the period to the net defined benefit liability or asset.

Defined benefit costs are categorised as follows:

  • i) service cost (including current service cost, past service cost, as well as gains and losses on curtailments and settlements);

  • ii) net interest expenses or income; and

  • iii) remeasurement

The Group presents the first two components of defined benefit costs in the consolidated statement of profit and loss in the line item 'Employee benefits expense'. Curtailment gains and losses are accounted for as past service cost.

iii) Share-based payments:

Equity-settled share-based payments to employees and others providing similar services are measured at the fair value of the equity instruments at the grant date. Details regarding the determination of the fair value of equity-settled share-based transactions are set out in note 60.

  • (a) Includes impact of market performance conditions (e.g. entity’s share price)

  • (b) Excludes impact of any service and non-market performance vesting conditions (e.g. profitability, sales growth targets and remaining an employee of the entity over a specified time period), and

  • (c) Excludes the impact of any non-vesting conditions (e.g. the requirement for employees to save or hold shares for a specific period of time)

The fair value determined at the grant date of the equity-settled share-based payments is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the Company's estimate of equity instruments that will eventually vest, with a corresponding increase in equity. At the end of each reporting period, the Company revises its estimate of the number of equity instruments expected to vest. The impact of the revision of the original estimates, if any, is recognised in profit or loss such that the cumulative expense reflects the revised estimate, with a corresponding adjustment to the "Share options outstanding account".

Annual Report 2023-24 | 207

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

(j) Income Taxes

Income Tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

i) Current tax:

Current tax is the amount of income taxes payable in respect of taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from ‘profit before tax’ as reported in the consolidated statement of profit and loss because of items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and items that are never taxable or deductible under the Income Tax Act, 1961. The current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.

Significant judgments are involved in determining the provision for income taxes including judgment on whether tax positions are probable of being sustained in tax assessments. A tax assessment can involve complex issues, which can only be resolved over extended time periods. The recognition of taxes that are subject to certain legal or economic limits or uncertainties is assessed individually by management based on the specific facts and circumstances

ii) Deferred tax:

Deferred tax is recognized on temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the consolidated financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit under the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are generally recognized for all the deductible temporary differences to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which those deductible temporary differences can be utilised. Such deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the assets to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period in which the liability is settled or the asset realised, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period. The measurement of deferred tax liabilities and assets reflect the tax consequences that would follow from the manner in which the Group expects, at the end of the reporting period, to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.

Minimum Alternate Tax (‘MAT’) credit is recognised as deferred tax asset only when and to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Group will pay normal income tax during the period for which the MAT credit can be carried forward for setoff against the normal tax liability. MAT credit recognised as an asset is reviewed at each balance sheet date and written down to the extent the aforesaid convincing evidence no longer exists.

iii) Presentation of current and deferred tax:

Current and deferred tax are recognized in the profit and loss, except when they relate to items that are recognised in Other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case, the current and deferred tax are also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity respectively.

The Group offsets current tax assets and current tax liabilities, where it has a legally enforceable right to set off the recognized amounts and where it intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. In case of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities, the same are offset if the Group has a legally enforceable right to set off corresponding current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the Group.

(k) Revenue recognition

The group derives revenue primarily from sale of manufactured chemicals, bulk drugs. Enzymes, pharmaceutical formulations, environmental solutions products and rental income from investment property. Revenue from contracts with customers is recognized when control of the goods or services are transferred to the customer at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Revenue towards satisfaction of a performance obligation is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation.

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

The transaction price of goods sold and services rendered is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts offered by the group as part of the agreed contractual terms and excluding taxes or duties collected on behalf of the government

Sale of Goods/ Investment Property:

The Group recognises revenue when it transfers control of a product or service to a customer. The control of goods is transferred to the customer depending upon the incoterms or as agreed with customer or delivery basis. Control is considered to be transferred to the customer:

  • when the customer has ability to direct the use of such goods and obtain substantially all the benefits from it such as following delivery,

  • the customer has full discretion over the manner of distribution and price to sell the goods,

  • the customer has the primary responsibility when selling the goods and bears the risks of obsolescence and loss in relation to the goods.

Revenue received in connection with sale of goods is deferred and recognized over the period in which it satisfies the performance obligation by transferring promised good or service to a customer.

Recognition of revenue from contractual projects

Revenue from contractual project is recognized over time, using an input method with reference to the stage of completion of the contract activity at the end of the reporting period, measured based on the proportion of contract costs incurred for work performed to date relative to the estimated total contract costs.

The Group recognizes revenue only when it can reasonably measure its progress in satisfying the performance obligation. Until such time, the Company recognizes revenue to the extent of cost incurred, provided the Group expects to recover the costs incurred towards satisfying the performance obligation.

When it is probable that total contract costs will exceed total contract revenue, the expected loss is recognized as an expense immediately when such probability is determined.

Rental income from investment property

Lease income from operating leases where the Group is a lessor is recognised in income on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognised over the lease term on the same basis as rental income.

Rendering of services:

Revenue from services rendered is recognised pro-rata over the period of the contract as the underlying services are performed.

Infrastructure support services, consists of maintenance of common area in the investment property and supply of essentials. Revenue from such services are recognised in accordance with the terms of the agreement entered into with individual lessees.

Interest and dividend:

Interest income from financial assets is recognised when it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the amount of income can be measured reliably. Interest income is accrued on a time basis, by reference to the principal outstanding and the effective interest rate applicable, which is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of the financial assets to that asset’s net carrying amount on initial recognition.

Interest on income tax refund is recognised on receipt of refund order.

Dividend income is recognized when the Group’s right to receive payment is established which is generally when shareholders approve the dividend.

Export Incentives:

Duty free imports of raw materials under Advance License for imports as per the Import and Export Policy are matched with the exports made against the said licenses and net benefit / obligation is accounted by making suitable adjustments in raw material consumption.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 209

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

The benefit under the Duty Drawback, Mercantile Export Incentive Scheme and other schemes as per the Import and Export policy in respect of exports made under the said schemes is included as ‘Export Incentives’ under the head “Other Operating Revenue” in the consolidated statement of profit and loss and is accounted in the year of export.

(l) Property, plant and equipment (PPE)

Measurement at recognition:

Items of property, plant and equipment are stated in balance sheet at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Freehold land is not depreciated. Cost includes professional fees and, for qualifying assets, borrowing costs capitalised in accordance with the Group’s accounting policy.

Properties in the course of construction for production, supply or administrative purposes are carried at cost, less any recognised impairment loss. Cost includes professional fees and, for qualifying assets, borrowing costs capitalised in accordance with the Group’s accounting policy. Such properties are classified to the appropriate categories of property, plant and equipment when completed and ready for intended use. Depreciation of these assets, on the same basis as other property assets, commences when the assets are ready for their intended use. When parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items (major components) of property, plant and equipment.

An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from the continued use of the asset. Any gain or loss arising on the disposal or retirement of an item of property, plant and equipment is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment and is recognised in profit or loss.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost of assets (other than freehold land and capital work-in-progress) less their residual values on straight-line method over their useful lives as indicated in Part C of Schedule II of the Companies Act, 2013. Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimate accounted for on a prospective basis.

The estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment are as follows:

The estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment are as follows:
Assets Estimated useful life (inyears)
Buildings 30-60
Lease hold improvements (included in buildings) 5-10
Plant and equipment 5-20
Ofce Equipment (included inplant and equipment) 5-6
Computers (included inplant and equipment) 3-6
Furniture and fxtures 6-10
Vehicles 8

(m) Investment property

Investment properties are properties held to earn rentals and/or for capital appreciation (including property under construction for such purposes). Investment properties are measured-initially at cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are measured in accordance with Ind AS 16 requirements for cost model.

Transfers to, or from, investment property shall be made when, and only when, there is a change in use, evidenced by:

  • (a) commencement of owner-occupation, for a transfer from investment property to owner-occupied property

  • (b) commencement of development with a view to sale, for a transfer from investment property to inventories

  • (c) end of owner-occupation, for a transfer from owner-occupied property to investment property;

  • (d) commencement of an operating lease to another party, for a transfer from inventories to investment property

An investment property is derecognised upon disposal or when the investment property is permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefits are expected from the disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the property (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in profit or loss in the period in which the property is derecognised.

210 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

The estimated useful lives of Investment property are as follows:

The estimated useful lives of Investment property are as follows:
Assets Estimated useful life (inyears)
Building 60
Plant and equipment 15

(n) Intangible assets

(a) Intangible assets acquired separately

Intangible assets with finite useful lives that are acquired separately are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. The amortisation is recognised on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The estimated useful life and amortisation method are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimate being accounted for on a prospective basis.

An intangible asset is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising from derecognition of an intangible assets, measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, are recognised in consolidated statement of profit and loss when the assets is derecognised.

(b) Internally-generated intangible assets - Research and development expenditure

Expenditure on research activities is recognised as an expense in the period in which it is incurred. An Internally-generated intangible asset arising from development (or from the development phase of an internal project) is recognised if and only if, all the below stated conditions are fulfilled:

  • (i) the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for use or sale;

  • (ii) its intention to complete the asset and use or sell it;

  • (iii) its ability to use or sell the asset;

  • (iv) how the asset will generate probable future economic benefits;

  • (v) the availability of adequate resources to complete the development and to use or sell the asset; and

  • (vi) the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during development.

The amount initially recognised for internally-generated intangible assets is the sum of expenditure incurred from the date when the intangible assets first meets the recognition criteria listed above. Where no internally-generated intangible assets can be recognised, development expenditure is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit and loss in the period in which incurred.

Subsequent to initial recognition, internally-generated intangible assets are reported at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses, on the same basis as intangible as intangible assets that are acquired separately.

The estimated useful lives of intangible assets are as follows:

The estimated useful lives of intangible assets are as follows:
Assets Estimated useful life (inyears)
Computer software 3-6
Product know-how 3-5

(o) Impairment of tangible and intangible assets other than goodwill

At the end of each reporting period, the Group reviews the carrying amount of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the assets is estimated in order to determine the extent of impairment loss, if any. When it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Group estimates the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit to which the assets belongs. When a reasonable and consistent basis of allocation can be identified, corporate assets are also allocated to individual cash-generating units, or otherwise they are allocated to the smallest group of cash-generating units for a reasonable and consistent allocation basis to be identified.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 211

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Impairment loss is recognised when the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount. Recoverable amount is determined:

  • (i) in the case of an individual asset, at the higher of the net selling price and the value in use; and

  • (ii) in the case of a cash generating unit (a Group of assets that generates identified, independent cash flows), at the higher of the cash generating unit’s net selling price and the value in use.

[The amount of value in use is determined as the present value of estimated future cash flows from the continuing use of an asset and from its disposal at the end of its useful life. For this purpose, the discount rate (pre-tax) is determined based on the weighted average cost of capital of the Group suitably adjusted for risks specified to the estimated cash flows of the asset.]

For this purpose, a cash generating unit is ascertained as the smallest identifiable Group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or group of assets.

If recoverable amount of an asset (or a cash generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, such deficit is recognised immediately in the consolidated statement of profit and loss as impairment loss and the carrying amount of the asset (or cash generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount.

When an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or a cash generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss is recognised for the asset (or a cash generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in the consolidated statement of profit and loss.

(p) Impairment of goodwill

Goodwill is tested for impairment annually and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired. Impairment is determined for goodwill by assessing the recoverable amount of each CGU (or group of CGUs) to which the goodwill relates. When the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognised. Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed in future periods.

Any impairment loss for goodwill is recognised directly in profit or loss and is not reversed in subsequent periods.

On disposal of the relevant cash-generating unit, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal.

(q) Inventories

Inventories consisting of raw materials and packing materials, work-in-progress, stock-in-trade and finished goods are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. The cost of all categories of inventories is based on the weighted average method. Cost of raw materials and packing materials and stock-in-trade comprises cost of purchases. Cost of work-in-progress and finished goods comprises direct material, direct labour and an appropriate proportion of variable and fixed overhead expenditure, the latter being allocated on the basis of normal operating capacity. Costs of inventories also include all other costs incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated costs of completion and costs necessary to make the sale.

(r) Financial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instruments.

Financial assets

Initial recognition and measurement:

All financial assets are recognised initially at fair value excluding trade receivables which is recorded at transaction cost. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets are added to the fair value of the financial asset on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets as at fair value through profit or loss are

212 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

recognised immediately in profit or loss. All regular way purchases or sales of financial assets are recognised or derecognised on a trade date basis. Regular way purchases or sales of financial assets are financial assets that require delivery of assets within the time frame established by regulation or convention in the market place.

Subsequent measurement

For purposes of subsequent measurement, financial assets are classified in four categories -

  • (1) Debt instruments at amortised cost

  • (2) Debt instruments at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI)

  • (3) Debt instruments, derivatives and equity instruments at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)

  • (4) Equity instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI)

(1) Debt instruments at amortised cost

  • A ‘debt instrument’ is measured at the amortised cost, if both the following conditions are met:

  • a) The asset is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets for collecting contractual cash flows, and

  • b) Contractual terms of the asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest (SPPI) on the principal amount outstanding.

After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate (EIR) method. Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortisation is included in other income of the Statement of profit and loss. The losses arising from impairment are recognised in the Statement of profit or loss.

(2) Debt instrument at FVTOCI

  • A ‘debt instrument’ is measured as at FVTOCI, if both of the following criteria are met:

  • The objective of the business model is achieved both by collecting contractual cash flows and selling the financial assets, and the contractual terms of the instrument that give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are SPPI on the principal amount outstanding.

  • Debt instruments included within the FVTOCI category are measured initially as well as at each reporting date at fair value. Fair value movements are recognised in the other comprehensive income (OCI). However, the Group recognises interest income, impairment losses and reversals and foreign exchange gain or loss in the profit or loss. On derecognition of the asset, cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in OCI is reclassified from the equity to profit or loss. Interest earned whilst holding FVTOCI debt instrument is reported as interest income using the EIR method.

(3) Debt instrument at FVTPL

FVTPL is a residual category for debt instruments. Any debt instrument, which does not meet the criteria for categorization as at amortised cost or as FVTOCI, is classified as at FVTPL. In addition, the Group may elect to designate a debt instrument, which otherwise meets amortised cost or FVTOCI criteria, as at FVTPL. However, such election is allowed only if doing so reduces or eliminates a measurement or recognition inconsistency (referred to as ‘accounting mismatch’).

  • (4) Equity Instruments

All equity Instruments in scope of Ind AS 109 are measured at fair value. Equity instruments which are held for trading classified as at FVTPL. For all other equity instruments, the Group may make an irrevocable election to present in other comprehensive income subsequent changes in the fair value. The Group makes such election on an instrument- by-instrument basis. The classification is made on initial recognition and is irrevocable.

If the Group decides to classify an equity instrument as at FVTOCI, then all fair value changes on the instrument including foreign exchange gain or loss, excluding dividends, are recognised in the OCI. There is no recycling of the amounts from OCI to consolidated statement of profit and loss, even on sale of investment. However, the Group may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 213

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Derecognition

A financial asset (or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or part of a group of similar financial assets) is primarily derecognised (i.e. removed from the Group’s balance sheet) when:

  • 1) The contractual rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired, or

  • 2) The Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a ‘pass-through’ arrangement; and either

  • (a) The Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or

  • (b) The Group has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset.

When the Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from an asset or has entered into a pass-through arrangement, it evaluates if and to what extent it has retained the risks and rewards of ownership. When it has neither transferred nor retained substantially all of the risks and rewards of the asset, nor transferred control of the asset, the Group continues to recognise the transferred asset to the extent of the Group’s continuing involvement; in that case the Group also recognises an associated liability. The transferred asset and the associated liability are measured on a basis that reflects the rights and obligations that the Group has retained. Continuing involvement that takes the form of a guarantee over the transferred asset is measured at the lower of the original carrying amount of the asset and the maximum amount of consideration that the Group could be required to repay.

Impairment of financial assets

In accordance with Ind AS 109, the Group applies expected credit loss (ECL) model for measurement and recognition of impairment loss on financial assets measured at amortised cost, trade receivables, other contractual rights to receive cash or other financial assets, and guarantees not designated as at FVTPL.

Expected credit losses are the weighted average of credit losses with the respective risks of default occurring as the weights. Credit loss is the difference between all contractual cash flows that are due to the Group in accordance with the contract and all the cash flows that the Group expects to receive (i.e. all cash shortfalls), discounted at the original effective interest rate (or credit adjusted effective interest rate for purchase or originated credit-impaired financial assets). The Group estimates cash flow by considering all contractual terms of the financial instrument (for example, prepayment, extension, call and similar options) through the expected life of that financial instrument.

The Group measures the loss allowance for a financial instrument at an amount equal to the lifetime expected credit losses if the credit risk on that financial instrument has increased significantly since initial recognition. If the credit risk on a financial instrument has not increased significantly since initial recognition, the Group measures the loss allowance for that financial instrument at an amount equal to 12 month expected credit losses. 12-month expected credit losses are portion of the lifetime expected credit losses and represent the lifetime cash shortfalls that will result if the default occurs within the 12-months after the reporting date and thus, are not cash shortfalls that are predicted over the next 12-months.

If the Group’s measured loss allowance for a financial instrument at lifetime expected credit loss model in the previous period, but determines at the end of a reporting period that the credit risks has not increased significantly since initial recognition due to improvement in credit quality as compared to the previous period, the Group again measures the loss allowance based on 12-month expected credit losses.

When making the assessment of whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, the Group uses the change in the risk of a default occurring over the expected life of the financial instrument instead of the change in the amount of expected credit losses. To make that assessment, the Group compares the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the reporting date with the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the date of initial recognition and considers reasonable and supportable information, that is available without undue cost or effort, that is indicative of significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition.

For trade receivables or any contractual right to receive cash or another financial asset that result from transactions that are within the scope of Ind AS 11 and Ind AS 18, the Group always measures the loss allowance at an amount equal to lifetime expected credit losses.

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Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Further, for the purpose of measuring lifetime expected credit loss allowance for trade receivables, the Group has used a practical expedient as permitted under Ind AS 109. This expected credit loss allowance is computed based on a provision matrix which takes into account historical credit loss experience and adjusted for forward-looking information.

The impairment requirements for the recognition and measurement of a loss allowance are equally applied to debt instruments at FVTOCI except that the loss allowance is recognised in other comprehensive income and is not reduced from the carrying amount in the balance sheet.

Financial liabilities and equity instruments

Classifcation as debts or equity:

Debts and equity instruments issued by the Group are classified as either financial liabilities or as equity in accordance with the substance of the contractual arrangements and the definitions of a financial liability and an equity instrument.

Equity instruments:

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Group after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Group are recognised at the proceeds received, net of direct issue cost.

Repurchase of the Group’s own equity instruments is recognised and deducted directly in equity. No gain or loss is recognised in consolidated statement of profit and loss on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the Group’s own equity instruments.

Financial liabilities:

Initial recognition and measurement:

All financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the issue of financial liabilities (other than financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss) are deducted from the fair value of the financial liabilities on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the issue of financial liabilities as at fair value through profit or loss are recognised immediately in profit or loss.

Subsequent measurement:

All financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method or at FVTPL. However, financial liabilities that arise when a transfer of a financial asset does not qualify for derecognition or when the continuing involvement approach applies, financial guarantee contracts, issued by the Group, and commitments issued by the Group to provide a loan at below-market interest rate are measured in accordance with the specific accounting policies set out below.

Financial liabilities at FVTPL:

Financial liabilities are classified as at FVTPL when the financial liability is either contingent consideration recognised by the Group as an acquirer in a business combination to which Ind AS 103 applies or is held for trading or it is designated as at FVTPL.

A financial liability is classified as held for trading if:

  • it has been incurred principally for the purpose of repurchasing it in the near term; or

  • on initial recognition it is part of a portfolio of identified financial instruments that the Group manages together and has a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking; or

  • it is a derivative that is not designated and effective as a hedging instrument.

Financial liabilities at FVTPL are stated at fair value, with any gains or losses arising on remeasurement recognised in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognised in profit or loss incorporates any interest paid on the financial liability and is included in the ‘Other income’ line item.

However, for non-held-for-trading financial liabilities that are designated as at FVTPL, the amount of change in the fair value of the financial liability that is attributable to changes in the credit risk of that liability is recognised in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the liability’s credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit, or loss, in which case these effects of changes in credit risk are recognised in profit or loss. The remaining amount of change in the fair value of liability is always recognised in profit and loss. Changes in fair value attributable to a financial liability’s credit risk that are recognised in other comprehensive income are reflected immediately in retained earnings and are not subsequently reclassified to profit or loss.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 215

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Gains or losses on financial guarantee contracts and loan commitments issued by the company that are designated by the Group as at fair value through profit or loss are recognised in profit or loss.

Fair value is determined in the manner described in note 54.

Financial liabilities at amortised cost:

Financial liabilities that are not held-for-trading and are not designated as at FVTPL are measured at amortised cost at the end of subsequent accounting periods. The carrying amounts of financial liabilities that are subsequently measured at amortised cost are determined based on the effective interest method. Interest expense that is not capitalised as part of costs of an asset is included in the ‘Finance costs’ line item.

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial liability, or (where appropriate) a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.

Derecognition of fnancial liabilities:

The Group derecognises financial liabilities when, and only when, the Group’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or have expired. An exchange between with a lender of debt instruments with substantially different terms is accounted for as an extinguishment of the original financial liability and the recognition of a new financial liability. Similarly, a substantial modification of the terms of an existing financial liability (whether or not attributable to the financial difficulty of the debtor) is accounted for as an extinguishment of the original financial liability and the recognition of a new financial liability. The difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognised and the consideration paid and payable is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit and loss.

Ofsetting of fnancial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the balance sheet if there is a currently enforceable legal right to offset the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, to realise the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously.

(s) Leasing

The Group as a lessor:

Leases for which the Group is a lessor is classified as a finance or operating lease. Whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessee, the contract is classified as a finance lease. All other leases are classified as operating leases. Ind AS 116 does not change substantially how a lessor accounts for leases. Under Ind AS 116, a lessor continues to classify leases as either finance leases or operating leases and account for those two types of leases differently. However, Ind AS 116 has changed and expanded the disclosures required, in particular with regard to how a lessor manages the risks arising from its residual interest in leased assets.

When the Group is an intermediate lessor, it accounts for its interests in the head lease and the sublease separately. The sublease is classified as a finance or operating lease by reference to the right-of-use asset arising from the head lease.

For operating leases, rental income is recognized on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

The Group as a lessee:

The Group’s lease asset classes primarily consist of leases for Residential premises, Office Premises, Godown, Industrials land and Vehicle. The Group assesses whether a contract contains a lease, at inception of a contract. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. To assess whether a contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset, the Group assesses whether: (i) the contract involves the use of an identified asset (ii) the Group has substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the asset through the period of the lease and (iii) the Group has the right to direct the use of the asset.

At the date of commencement of the lease, the Group recognizes a right-of-use asset (“ROU”) and a corresponding lease liability for all lease arrangements in which it is a lessee, except for leases with a term of twelve months or less (short-term leases) and low value leases. For these short-term and low value leases, the Group recognizes the lease payments as an operating expense on a straight-

216 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

line basis over the term of the lease. The right-of-use assets and lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the future lease payments. The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if not readily determinable, using the incremental borrowing rates in the country of domicile of these leases.

The lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease. If that rate cannot be readily determined, which is generally the case for leases in the Group, the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate is used, being the rate that the individual lessee would have to pay to borrow the funds necessary to obtain an asset of similar value to the right-of-use asset in a similar economic environment with similar terms, security and conditions.

Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise:

  • Fixed lease payments (including in-substance fixed payments) payable during the lease term and under reasonably certain extension options, less any lease incentives;

  • Variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate, initially measured using the index or rate at the commencement date;

  • The amount expected to be payable by the lessee under residual value guarantees;

  • The exercise price of purchase options, if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise the options; and

  • Payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the exercise of an option to terminate the lease.

As a practical expedient, Ind AS 116 permits a lessee not to separate non-lease components when bifurcation of the payments is not available between the two components, and instead account for any lease and associated non-lease components as a single arrangement. The Group has used this practical expedient. Contingent and variable rentals are recognized as expense in the periods in which they are incurred.

The lease liability is subsequently measured by increasing the carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease liability (using the effective interest method) and by reducing the carrying amount to reflect the lease payments made.

The Group remeasures the lease liability (and makes a corresponding adjustment to the related right-of-use asset) whenever:

  • The lease term has changed or there is a change in the assessment of exercise of a purchase option, in which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a revised discount rate.

  • A lease contract is modified and the lease modification is not accounted for as a separate lease, in which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a revised discount rate.

The right-of-use assets are initially recognized at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or prior to the commencement date of the lease plus any initial direct costs less any lease incentives. They are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Whenever the Group incurs an obligation for costs to dismantle and remove a leased asset, restore the site on which it is located or restore the underlying asset to the condition required by the terms and conditions of the lease, a provision is recognised and measured under Ind AS 37. The costs are included in the related right-of-use asset, unless those costs are incurred to produce inventories.

Right-of-use assets are depreciated from the commencement date on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the lease term and useful life of the underlying asset. Right of use assets are evaluated for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. For the purpose of impairment testing, the recoverable amount (i.e. the higher of the fair value less cost to sell and the value-in-use) is determined on an individual asset basis unless the asset does not generate cash flows that are largely independent of those from other assets. In such cases, the recoverable amount is determined for the Cash Generating Unit (CGU) to which the asset belongs.

Extension and termination options are included in many of the leases. In determining the lease term the management considers all facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive to exercise an extension option, or not exercise a termination option.

Lease liability and ROU asset have been separately presented in the Balance Sheet and lease payments have been classified as financing cash flows.

Lease liability and ROU asset have been separately presented in the Balance Sheet and lease payments have been classified as financing cash flows.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 217

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Also refer Note 45.

In respect of short-term leases and leases of low-value assets, the Group has elected not to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases of real estate properties that have a lease term of 12 months. The Group recognises the lease payments associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

(t) Provisions, contingent liabilities and contingent assets

Provisions are recognized when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that the Group will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. When a provision is measured using the cash flows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of those cash flows when the effect of the time value of money is material.

When some or all of the economic benefits required to settle a provision are expected to be recovered from a third party, a receivable is recognised as an asset if it is virtually certain that reimbursement will be received and the amount of the receivable can be measured reliably.

Contingent assets are not recognized in the consolidated financial statements of the Group. A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the Group or a present obligation that is not recognized because it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. A contingent liability also arises in extremely rare cases where there is a liability that cannot be recognized because it cannot be measured reliably. The Group does not recognize a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the consolidated financial statements.

(u) Earnings per share

The Group presents basic and diluted earnings per share data for its equity shares.

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to equity shareholders by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the financial year. Dilutive EPS is determined by adjusting the profit or loss attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares, which includes all stock options granted to employees.

(v) Cash and cash equivalents:

Cash and cash equivalents in the balance sheet comprise cash at banks and on hand and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less, which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

For the purpose of the Statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits, as defined above, net of cash credit / overdraft balances as they are considered an integral part of the Group’s cash management.

(w) Operating segments:

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker (CODM). The chief operating decision maker is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments of the Group and accordingly is identified as the chief operating decision maker.

(x) Dividends

The Group recognises a liability to make cash distributions to equity holders when the distribution is authorised and the distribution is no longer at the discretion of the Company. As per the corporate laws in India, a distribution is authorised when it is approved by the shareholders. A corresponding amount is recognised directly in equity.

(y) Use of estimates and judgements

The preparation of the Group’s financial statements requires the management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, and the accompanying disclosures, and the disclosure of contingent liabilities. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected. In particular, information about significant areas of estimation uncertainty and critical judgments in applying

218 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the consolidated financial statements is included in the following notes:

Fair value measurement of fnancial instruments:

When the fair values of financials assets and financial liabilities recorded in the financial statements cannot be measured based on quoted prices in active markets, their fair value is measured using valuation techniques which involve various judgements and assumptions.

Useful lives of property, plant and equipment, investment property and intangible assets:

Property, plant and equipment, investment property and intangible assets represent a significant proportion of the asset base of the Group. The charge in respect of periodic depreciation and amortisation is derived after determining an estimate of an asset’s expected useful life and the expected residual value at the end of its life. The useful lives and residual values of Group’s assets are determined by the management at the time when the asset is acquired and reviewed periodically, including at each financial year end. The lives are based on historical experience with similar assets as well as anticipation of future events, which may impact their life, such as changes in technical or commercial obsolescence arising from changes or improvements in production or from a change in market demand of the product or service output of the asset.

Assets and obligations relating to employee benefts:

The employment benefit obligations depend on a number of factors that are determined on an actuarial basis using a number of assumptions. The assumptions used in determining the net cost/ (income) include the discount rate, inflation and mortality assumptions. Any changes in these assumptions will impact upon the carrying amount of employment benefit obligations.

Tax expense: [refer note 2(j)and note 59]

The Parent Company’s tax jurisdiction is India. Significant judgements are involved in determining the provision for income taxes, if any, including amount expected to be paid/recovered for uncertain tax positions. Further, significant judgement is exercised to ascertain amount of deferred tax asset (DTA) that could be recognised based on the probability that future taxable profits will be available against which DTA can be utilized and amount of temporary difference in which DTA cannot be recognised on want of probable taxable profits.

Minimum Alternate Tax (‘MAT’) credit is recognised as deferred tax asset only when and to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Parent Company will pay normal income tax during the period for which the MAT credit can be carried forward for set-off against the normal tax liability. MAT credit recognised as an asset is reviewed at each balance sheet date and written down to the extent the aforesaid convincing evidence no longer exists

Valuation of investment property [refer note 58]

Impairment of tangible and intangible assets other than goodwill [refer note 2(o)]

Impairment of Goodwill [refer note 2(p)]

Provisions: [refer note 2(t)]

Write down in value of inventories: (refer note 15)

(z) Recent accounting pronouncements

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (“MCA”) notifies new standard or amendments to the existing standards. There is no new and amended standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the Company’s financial statements

Annual Report 2023-24 | 219

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

3. Property, plant and equipment

3. Property, plant and equipment
(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Freehold
land
Buildings Plant and
equipment
Furniture
and fxtures
Vehicles Leasehold
Improvements
Total
At cost or deemed cost as at
April 01, 2022
34.30 7,012.07 16,612.02 647.67 734.70 498.56 25,539.32
Additions - 163.66 742.60 73.07 324.67 1,617.83 2,921.83
Disposals - - (180.42) (14.64) (17.29) - (212.35)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 34.30 7,175.73 17,174.20 706.10 1,042.08 2,116.39 28,248.80
Additions - 2,902.16 2,159.49 0.67 17.08 - 5,079.40
Disposals - (6.68) (53.01) (2.48) (36.99) - (99.16)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 34.30 10,071.21 19,280.68 704.29 1,022.17 2,116.39 33,229.04
Accumulated depreciation
As at April 01, 2022 - 1,154.74 4,275.22 329.81 211.84 220.33 6,191.94
Depreciation expense - 287.04 1,168.05 91.29 96.58 106.40 1,749.36
Disposals - - (147.90) (14.59) (14.96) - (177.45)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 - 1,441.78 5,295.37 406.51 293.46 326.73 7,763.85
Depreciation expense - 317.59 1,263.70 47.11 114.42 160.08 1,902.90
Disposals - (6.63) (40.69) (2.41) (30.35) - (80.08)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 - 1,752.74 6,518.38 451.21 377.53 486.81 9,586.67
Carrying amount
As at March 31, 2023 34.30 5,733.95 11,878.83 299.59 748.62 1,789.66 20,484.95
As at March 31, 2024 34.30 8,318.47 12,762.30 253.08 644.64 1,629.58 23,642.37

4. Capital work-in-progress (CWIP)

(H in Lakhs)

4. Capital work-in-progress (CWIP) (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Project inprogress
Projects temporarilysuspended
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
4,190.25
-
4,190.25
161.57
-
161.57

(Refer Notes 24 and 28- For details of assets pledged as security)

CWIP Comprises of projects for expansion of existing business along with factory set up for new/upgraded business line

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Movement of Capital work-in-progress
Particulars
OpeningBalance
Addition duringtheyear
Capitalised duringtheyear
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
2,989.35
4,122.73
(2,921.83)
4,190.25
March 31, 2024
4,190.25
1,050.72
(5,079.40)
161.57

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Ageing of Capital work-in-progress

Ageing of Capital work-in-progress
Capital work-in-progress
Balance as at March 31, 2024
Project inprogress
Projects temporarilysuspended
Balance as at March 31, 2023 #
Project inprogress
Projects temporarilysuspended
(Hin Lakhs)
Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
-
70.30 - 91.27 - 161.57
- - - - -
-
2,910.47 1,272.78 7.00 - 4,190.25
- - - - -

220 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

CWIP completion schedule for project overdue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2024

CWIP completion schedule for project over
Project overdue
Saykhaproject (green feldproject)
Total
ue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, ue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, ue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2024 (Hin Lakhs)
Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
91.27 - - - 91.27
91.27 - - - 91.27

Projects cost consists of (green filed project) fees and other direct cost.

CWIP completion schedule for project overdue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2023#

CWIP completion schedule for project overdue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2023#
(Hin Lakhs)
Project Overdue / Cost over Run Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
Premix Plant 3,997.54 - - - 3,997.54
Saykhaproject - - -
Capacity enhancement of Biotech Plant at Kullu
Plant
41.03 - - - 41.03
AD 2 Project 14.30 - - - 14.30
Total 4,052.87 - - - 4,052.87

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Projects cost consists of Civil structural, Mechanical, Fabrication work, related equipments of Productions, HVAC System, Fire protection etc and other direct cost.

5. Right-of-use Assets

5. Right-of-use Assets (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Leasehold land Buildings Vehicles Total
At Cost
At April 1, 2022 1,055.85 832.40 166.21 2,054.46
Pursuant to Merger (Refer Note 67) - (187.30) - (187.30)
Disposals # - (92.90) (166.21) (259.11)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 1,055.85 552.20 - 1,608.05
Additions - 502.18 - 502.18
Disposals / Deletions - - - -
Balance as at March 31, 2024 1,055.85 1,054.38 - 2,110.23
Accumulated depreciation
At April 1, 2022 55.04 275.99 152.16 483.19
Pursuant to Merger (Refer Note 67) - (12.01) - (12.01)
Depreciation expenses 18.33 99.26 14.05 131.64
Disposals # - - (166.21) (166.21)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 73.37 363.24 - 436.60
Depreciation expense 18.41 111.88 - 130.29
Disposals # - - -
Balance as at March 31, 2024 91.78 475.11 - 566.89
Carrying amount
As at March 31, 2023 # 982.48 188.97 - 1,171.45
As at March 31, 2024 964.07 579.27 - 1,543.34

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

(Refer Notes 24 and 28- For details of assets pledged as security)

(Refer Note 45)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 221

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 6A. - Investment property (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Leasehold land Buildings Plant and
equipment
Total
At cost or deemed cost as at April 01, 2022 20.79 6,174.08 2,039.74 8,234.61
Pursuant to Merger (Refer Note 67) - 66.51 - 66.51
Disposal - (3,421.67) (1,170.89) (4,592.56)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # 20.79 2,818.92 868.85 3,708.56
Additions 370.79 152.18 - 522.97
Disposal (387.76) (2,403.56) (784.27) (3,575.59)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 3.82 567.54 84.58 655.94
Accumulated depreciation
As at April 01, 2022 - 765.80 790.18 1,555.98
Pursuant to Merger (Refer Note 67) - 17.51 - 17.51
Depreciation expense # - 125.95 134.00 259.95
Disposal - (476.98) (518.74) (995.72)
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # - 432.28 405.44 837.72
Depreciation expense - 15.15 2.93 18.08
Disposal # - (365.26) (375.28) (740.54)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 - 82.17 33.09 115.26
Carrying amount
As at March 31, 2023 # 20.79 2,386.64 463.41 2,870.85
As at March 31, 2024 3.82 485.37 51.49 540.68

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67) Notes 24 and 28 - For details of assets pledged as security (Refer Note 58)

Title deeds of immovable property not held in the name of the Company

Relevant line
item in the
Balance Sheet
Description of
item of property
Gross Value
of property
(Jin Lakhs)*
Title deed held
in the name of
Whether title deed
holder is a promoter,
director or relative
of promoter/director
or employee of
promoter/director
Property held
since which
date
Reason for not
being held in
the name of the
company
Investment
property
Freehold land
located at Village
Takwe (Budruk), Tal
– Maval District –
Pune admeasuring
11.95 (21.39) Acres
3.44
(8.06)
Mr. Krishna
Datla “held in
trust”on behalf
of the Company
Executive Vice-
Chairman
Various
date from
December 27,
1992 to July
04, 1995
The plot of land
is an agricultural
land lying in the
industrial zone
and is required
to registered in
individual names.
Ms. Rajeshwari
Datla “held in
trust” on behalf
of the Company
Non-Executive
Director (relative
of Executive Vice-
Chairman )
Various
date from
December 27,
1992 to July
04, 1995
The plot of land
is an agricultural
land lying in the
industrial zone
and is required
to registered in
individual names.
  • Bold figures represents current year figures.

222 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 6A. - Goodwill
Particulars
Deemed cost asgoodwill*
Goodwill on Consolidation
Other adjustments
Accumulated impairment losses(Refer Note 70)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024
411.65
780.69
82.95
(863.64)
411.65
March 31, 2023 #
411.65
780.69
81.70
(121.00)
1,153.04
  • The amount of goodwill recognised is pursuant to shares acquisition by the company of its subsidiary in the earlier year.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

7. Other Intangible assets

7. Other Intangible assets (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Computer software Product know -how Total
At cost or deemed cost as at April 01, 2022 389.45 2,000.41 2,389.86
Additions # 6.07 377.71 383.78
Other adjustments - 68.28 68.28
Disposal - - -
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # 395.52 2,446.40 2,841.92
Additions 2.49 115.17 117.66
Disposal (4.92) - (4.92)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 393.09 2,561.57 2,954.66
Accumulated amortisation
As at April 01, 2022 303.78 793.72 1,097.50
Amortisation expense # 46.42 637.37 683.79
Other adjustments - 45.40 45.40
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # 350.20 1,476.49 1,826.69
Amortisation expense 26.48 394.17 420.65
Other adjustments (4.92) (3.28) (8.20)
Balance as at March 31, 2024 371.76 1,867.38 2,239.14
Carrying amount
As at March 31, 2023 # 45.32 969.91 1,015.23
As at March 31, 2024 21.33 694.19 715.52

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

8. Intangible assets under development
Particulars
Project inprogress
Projects temporarilysuspended
Total
Movement of intangible assets under development
Particulars
OpeningBalance
(Written of)/Addition duringtheyear
Capitalised duringtheyear
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024
-
-
-
March 31, 2023 #
311.96
-
311.96
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024
311.96
(194.30)
(117.66)
-
March 31, 2023 #
467.16
228.58
(383.78)
311.96

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 223

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

8. Intangible assets under development (Contd.)

Ageing of Intangible assets under development : as at March 31, 2024

Ageing of Intangible assets under developm
Intangible assets under development
Balance as at March 31, 2024
Project inprogress
Projects temporarilysuspended
Balance as at March 31, 2023 #
Project inprogress
Projects temporarilysuspended
ent : as at March 31, 2024
(Hin Lakhs)
ent : as at March 31, 2024
(Hin Lakhs)
ent : as at March 31, 2024
(Hin Lakhs)
ent : as at March 31, 2024
(Hin Lakhs)
ent : as at March 31, 2024
(Hin Lakhs)
Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
- - - - -
- - - - -
2.56 2.50 142.59 164.31 311.96
- - - - -

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Intangible assets under development completion schedule for project overdue or has exceeded its cost: as at March 31, 2023 #

31, 2023 # 31, 2023 #
(Hin Lakhs)
Project overdue / Cost over run Less than
1 Year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
Penicillin G acylases 91.78 - - - 91.78
Phyto to stegma sterol 68.94 - - - 68.94
Calcifdiol 58.90 - - - 58.90
25-OH 26.15 - - - 26.15
4HBCBiotech 23.08 - - - 23.08
Others 38.05 - - - 38.05
Total 306.89 - - - 306.89

Projects cost consists of Stores and spare parts consumed, other direct cost and consulting cost

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 9A - Investments in associate (Non-current):In equity instruments unquoted (fully paid up)

(At cost less impairment in value of investments, if any)

(At cost less impairment in value of investments, if any)
Particulars
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
30,12,504 Equityshares ofH10 each
Less: Impairment in the value of investments
Total
Agreegate Carryingvalue of unquoted investments before impairment
Aggregate amount of impairment in value of investments
Notes:
The fnancial information in respect of this associate is not material to thegroup.
Proportion of Group's ownershipinterest in the associate [Refer note 47]
Accumulated unrecognised share of losses of associate
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
Unrecognised share of losses of associate for theyear
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
Accumulated recognised share of losses of associate
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
475.00
(475.00)
-
475.00
475.00
-
-
598.53
March 31, 2024
475.00
(475.00)
-
475.00
475.00
-
-
598.53

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

224 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 9B - Investments (Non-current):

Particulars
Investment in other entities - In equity instruments:
(i)
Unquoted Investments (all fully paid up)
Investments in equity instruments at FVTOCI
Shivalik Solid Waste Management Limited
20,000 Equity shares ofH10 each.
Zela Wellness Private Limited
58,048 Equity shares ofH10 each
Less: Impairment in the value of investments
Island Veerchemie Private Limited
12 Equity Shares ofH15,000 each
Total aggregate unquoted Investments (A)
(ii) Quoted Investments (all fully paid)
Investments in equity instruments at FVTOCI
Abbott India Limited
139 Equity shares ofH10 each
Total aggregate quoted investments (B)
Total Non-current investments (A+B)
Aggregate carrying value of unquoted investments before impairment
Aggregate amount of quoted investments and market value thereof
Aggregate amount of impairment in value of investments
# Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)
Note 10- Share application money
Particulars
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
Less: Impairment in the value of share application money
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
4.11
126.52
(126.52)
1.80
5.91
30.70
30.70
36.61
132.43
30.70
126.52
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
309.86
(309.86)
-
March 31, 2024
4.11
126.52
(126.52)
1.80
5.91
37.45
37.45
43.36
132.43
37.45
126.52
March 31, 2024
309.86
(309.86)
-

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 11- Loans (Non-current)
Particulars
Loan to employees, - unsecured (considered good)
Inter corporate deposit - unsecured (considered doubtful) (Refer Note 49)
Less : Allowance for doubtful inter corporate deposit
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
17.50
37.00
(37.00)
17.50
March 31, 2024
29.54
37.00
(37.00)
29.54

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 225

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 11- Loans (Non-current) (Contd.)

As at March 31, 2024
Particulars
Amount of loan or advance in the nature of loans
- Repayable on demand (A) (Refer Note 21 and Note 19)
- Agreement does not specify any terms or period of repayment (B)
Total
Percentage of loans / advances in the nature of loans to the total loans
(Advance ofH907.14,loan to D.K.Biopharma Private LimitedH455.00 Lakhs, loan
to employeesH40.98 Lakhs, Intercorporate depositH37.00 Lakhs)
(Hin Lakhs)
All Parties Promoters Related Parties
944.14 - 37.00
- - -
944.14* - 37.00*
65.56% 2.57%
  • The amounts reported are at gross amounts, without considering provisions made.
As at March 31, 2023 #
(Hin Lakhs)
As at March 31, 2023 #
(Hin Lakhs)
As at March 31, 2023 #
(Hin Lakhs)
As at March 31, 2023 #
(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars All Parties Promoters Related Parties
Related Party
Amount of loan or advance in the nature of loans
- Repayable on demand (A) (Refer Note 21 and Note 19) 944.14 37.00
- Agreement does not specify any terms or period of repayment (B) - -
Total 944.14* 37.00*
Percentage of loans / advances in the nature of loans to the total loans (Advance of
H907.14,loan to D.K.Biopharma Private LimitedH100.00 Lakhs, loan to employees
H20.00 Lakhs, Intercorporate depositH37.00 Lakhs)
88.72% 3.92%
  • The amounts reported are at gross amounts, without considering provisions made.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Amount outstanding as at year end
Health and Wellness India Private Limited - (Associate) (Refer note 11)
Inter Gest Germany GmbH - (Others)
Loan to employees
D.K.Biopharma Private Limited - (Others) (Refer note 19)
Total (Gross)
Provided
Maximum amount outstanding during the year
Health and Wellness India Private Limited - (Associate)
Inter Gest Germany GmbH - (Others)
D.K.Biopharma Private Limited - (Others)
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
37.00
907.14
20.00
100.00
1,064.14
944.14
37.00
1,107.34
100.00
37.00
907.14
40.98
455.00
1,440.12
944.14
37.00
907.14
455.00

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

226 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 12- Other financial assets (Non current):

Note 12- Other fnancial assets (Non current):
Particulars
Securitydeposits - unsecured (consideredgood)
Bank deposits with remainingmaturityof more than 12 months
Interest accrued but not due from banks - unsecured (consideredgood)
Others
Total
# Restatedpursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)
'Deposits held under lien by bank against guarantees and other commitments with
Union Bank of India
Yes Bank Limited
Union Bank of India
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
230.97
1,675.22
52.08
145.99
2,104.26
-
1,674.22
March 31, 2024
270.96
54.86
5.29
68.21
399.32
0.57
53.36

Note 13 - Non-current tax assets (net) (H in Lakhs)

Note 13 - Non-current tax assets (net) (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Advance income-tax (net of provision for taxH961.99
Lakhs [as at March 31, 2023H1,545.37 Lakhs])
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
1,030.96
1,030.96
815.00
815.00

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 14 - Other assets (Non-current)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Capital advances
Consideredgood(unsecured)
Considered doubtful (unsecured)
Less: Allowance for doubtful advances
Deferred rent
Prepaid expenses
Balances withgovernment authorities - consideredgood
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
104.75
44.21
44.21
(44.21)
-
-
527.87
3.75
636.37
23.32
44.21
44.21
(44.21)
-
11.49
66.88
3.75
105.44

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 15 - Inventories (H in Lakhs)

Particulars
(At lower of cost and net realisable value)
Raw materials and packing materials [includes stock in transit ofH330.22 Lakhs (as at
March 31, 2023H121.25 Lakhs)]
Tradedgoods
Work-in-progress
Finishedgoods
Stores and spares
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
4,913.85
475.68
3,416.81
3,433.45
774.19
13,013.98
2,997.74
374.80
3,358.82
1,043.01
964.05
8,738.42

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 227

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 15 - Inventories (Contd.)

Notes :

  • (i) Inventory write downs are accounted considering the nature of inventory, ageing, liquidation plan and net realisable value. Provision for write downs of inventories amounted to H2,229.02 lakhs. The changes in write downs are recognised as an expense in the consolidated statement of profit and loss amounting to H288.48 Lakhs (as at March 31, 2023 H271.81 Lakhs) and H Nil Lakhs considered as exceptional items. (as at March 31, 2023 H1940.54 Lakhs)

  • (ii) Inventories have been hypothecated as security against certain bank borrowings, details relating to which has been described in note 24 and note 28.

  • (iii) During the year ended March 31, 2024 H731.98 lakhs (as at March 31, 2023 H774.94 lakhs) was recognised as an expense for inventories carried at net realisable value.

Note 16 Trade receivables (unsecured)

Note 16 Trade receivables (unsecured)
Particulars
Undisputed Trade receivables – consideredgood
Undisputed Trade Receivables – which have signifcant
increase in credit risk
Undisputed Trade Receivables – credit impaired
Disputed Trade Receivables – consideredgood
Disputed Trade Receivables – which have signifcant
increase in credit risk
Disputed Trade Receivables – credit Impaired
Less : Allowance for doubtful debts (Expected credit loss
allowance)
Less : Others (Sales discount )
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Non-current
Current
-
4,164.94
-
-
-
429.69
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,594.63
-
(429.69)
-
-
4,164.94
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Non-current
Current
-
4,164.94
-
-
-
429.69
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,594.63
-
(429.69)
-
-
4,164.94
March 31, 2024
Non-current Current Current
- 6,982.51 4,164.94
- - -
- 450.94 429.69
- - -
- - -
- - -
- 7,433.45 4,594.63
- (450.94) (429.69)
- -
- 6,982.51 4,164.94

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Trade receivables are carried at amortised cost.

Trade receivables are non-interest bearing and generally on terms of 60-90 Days.

No trade and other receivables are due from directors or other officer of the Company either severally or jointly with any other person, nor any trade or other receivable are due from firms or private companies respectively in which director is a partner, a director or member (Refer note 49)

For explanation on the credit risk management process (Refer note 56)

Movement in the expected credit loss allowance

Movement in the expected credit loss allowance
Particulars
Balance at the beginningof theyear
Addition duringtheyear
Written of duringtheyear
Reversal duringtheyear
Balance at the end of theyear
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
421.31
23.05
-
(14.67)
429.69
March 31, 2024
429.69
21.25
-
-
450.94

228 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 16 Trade receivables (unsecured) (Contd.)

Ageing of trade receivables :as at March 31, 2024

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
(i) Undisputed Trade receivables –
consideredgood
(ii) Undisputed Trade Receivables –
which have signifcant increase in
credit risk
iii) Undisputed Trade Receivables –
credit impaired
(iv) Disputed
Trade
Receivables

consideredgood
(v) Disputed Trade Receivables – which
have signifcant increase in credit risk
(vi) Disputed Trade Receivables – credit
Impaired
Total
Outstanding for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments
Not Due Less than
6 months
6 months-1
year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
4,514.34 2,306.73 86.86 8.45 61.90 4.23 6,982.51
- - - - - - -
- - - 10.64 33.35 406.95 450.94
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - -
4,514.34 2,306.73 86.86 19.09 95.25 411.18 7,433.45

There are no unbilled receivables as on Balance sheet date

Ageing of trade receivables : as at March 31, 2023 #

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars Outstanding for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments for the following period from due date ofpayments
Not Due Less than 6
months
6 months-1
year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Total
(i) Undisputed
Trade
receivables

consideredgood
1,754.35 2,328.88 - 76.35 5.36 - 4,164.94
(ii) Undisputed Trade Receivables – which
have signifcant increase in credit risk
- - - - - - -
iii) Undisputed Trade Receivables – credit
impaired
- - - 18.31 20.17 391.21 429.69
(iv) Disputed
Trade
Receivables

consideredgood
- - - - - - -
(v) Disputed Trade Receivables – which
have signifcant increase in credit risk
- - - - - - -
(vi) Disputed Trade Receivables – credit
Impaired
- - - - - - -
Total 1,754.35 2,328.88 - 94.66 25.53 391.21 4,594.63

There are no unbilled receivables as on Balance sheet date

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 229

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 17 Cash and cash equivalents (H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Balances with banks
In current accounts
In deposit accounts with original maturityfor less than 3 months
Cash on hand
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
3,512.15
12.52
4.38
3,529.05
2,174.00
-
8.87
2,182.87

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 18 Bank balances other than cash and cash equivalents

Note 18 Bank balances other than cash and cash equivalents
Particulars
Balances with banks
In Unpaid dividend accounts
In escrow account
In deposit accounts with original maturity for more than 3 months but less than 12
months
Total*
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
15.21
38.38
2,250.16
2,303.75
March 31, 2024
16.98
0.01
3,783.53
3,800.52

*This includes deposits held under lien by bank against guarantees and other commitments amounting to H Nil (as at March 31, 2023: H65.51 Lakhs)

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 19- Loans (Current)

Note 19- Loans (Current)
Particulars
Unsecured, consideredgood
Inter corporate deposit
D.K.Biopharma Private Limited $ Loans to employees
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
100.00
2.50
102.50
March 31, 2024
455.00
11.43
466.43

$ The inter-corporate deposits amounting to H455.00 Lakhs were granted to the entity @ 9% p.a. for the purpose of its business.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 20 - Other financial assets (Current)

Note 20 - Other fnancial assets (Current)
Particulars
Interest accrued but not due
On fxed deposits from banks
On Inter corporate deposits
Others
Unsecured, consideredgood
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
16.80
2.79
14.08
33.67
March 31, 2024
44.19
27.60
15.99
87.78

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

230 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 21 -Other current assets

Note 21 -Other current assets
Particulars
Advance for supply ofgoods and services
Consideredgood
Considered doubtful
Less: Allowance for doubtful advances
Deferred rent
Prepaid expenses
Travel advances to employees
Export incentive receivables
Consideredgood
Balances withgovernment authorities
Others
Total
Movement in the Allowance for doubtful advances
Balance at the beginningof theyear
Addition duringtheyear
Reversal duringtheyear
Balance at the end of theyear
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
101.82
913.42
(913.42)
101.82
46.26
267.65
40.82
-
15.47
1,037.37
45.01
1,554.40
9.52
907.14
(3.24)
913.42
March 31, 2024
169.04
913.42
(913.42)
169.04
28.41
517.01
12.70
22.10
852.60
-
1,601.86
913.42
-
-
913.42

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 22 - Equity share capital:
Particulars
Authorised:
6,35,00,000 Equity shares ofH5/- each (as at March 31, 2023- 4,98,40,000 Equity shares of
H5/- each)
1,60,000 Unclassifed shares ofH5/- each (as at March 31, 2023 - 1,60,000 Unclassifed
shares ofH5/- each)
Issued, subscribed andpaid-up :
29,430,987 Equity shares ofH5/- each (as at March 31, 2023 - 29,430,987 Equity shares of
H5/- each)
Less: 5,56,880 Equity shares held by FBL ESOP Trust (as at March 31, 2023 5,73,684 Equity
shares held byFBL ESOP Trust) [Refer note (d) below]
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
2,492.00
8.00
2,500.00
1,471.55
(28.68)
1,442.87
March 31, 2024
3,175.00
8.00
3,183.00
1,471.55
(27.84)
1,443.71

(a) Reconciliation of shares outstanding at the beginning and at the end of the year

Particulars
OpeningBalance
Change duringtheyear
ClosingBalance
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
No of Equity
Shares
JIn Lakhs
2,88,47,322
1,442.37
9,981
0.50
2,88,57,303
1,442.87
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
No of Equity
Shares
JIn Lakhs
2,88,47,322
1,442.37
9,981
0.50
2,88,57,303
1,442.87
March 31, 2024
No of Equity
Shares
JIn Lakhs JIn Lakhs
2,88,57,303 1,442.87 1,442.37
16,804 0.84 0.50
2,88,74,107 1,443.71 1,442.87

Annual Report 2023-24 | 231

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

22. Equity share capital (Contd.)

(b) Details of shareholders holding more than 5% shares in the Company

Particulars
DVK Investments Private Limited, the Holding Company
(Refer note 67)
Mr. Krishna Datla
Mr.Satish Varma
Mrs. Anupama Datla Desai
Mrs. Preeti Thakkar
(Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2024
No. of Equity
Shares
% Holding
-
-
1,00,10,225
34.01%
34,53,325
11.73%
25,61,265
8.70%
22,40,376
7.61%
March 31, 2023 #
No. of Equity
Shares
No. of Equity
Shares
% Holding
- 1,50,75,318 51.22%
1,00,10,225 24,61,074 8.36%
34,53,325 23,160 0.08%
25,61,265 5,13,792 1.75%
22,40,376 1,91,847 0.65%

(c) Rights, preferences and restrictions

The Group has issued only one class of equity shares having par value of H5/- per share (March 31, 2023; - H5/- per share). Each holder of equity shares is entitled to one vote per share. The Parent Company declares and pays the dividend in Indian rupees. The dividend, if any, proposed by the Board of Directors is subject to shareholders’ approval in the ensuing Annual General Meeting, except in case of interim dividend.

During the year, the Board of directors have declared dividend of 25% (H1.25 per equity share of H5/- each) for the financial year 2023-24. (Refer note 57)

During the previous year, the Board of directors had declared an interim dividend of 25% (H1.25 per equity share of H5/- each) for the financial year 2022-23 which has been paid during the year 2023-24. (Refer note 57)

In the event of liquidation of the Company, the holders of equity shares will be entitled to receive remaining assets of the Company, after distribution of all preferential amounts. The distribution will be in proportion to the number of equity shares held by the shareholder.

(d) FBL ESOP Trust :

The Company had formulated Employee Stock Option Scheme namely Fermenta Biotech Limited - Employee Stock Option 2019 (ESOP 2019) in terms of the Scheme of amalgamation of erstwhile FBL with the Company. The equity shares are held by FBL ESOP Trust (Refer note 60).

Particulars
Outstandingat the beginningof theyear
Issue of sharespursuant to exercise of Employee Stock Option
Outstandingat the end of theyear
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Number of Shares
5,83,665
(9,981)
5,73,684
March 31, 2024
Number of Shares
5,73,684
(16,804)
5,56,880

(e) Details of Shares held by promoters at the end of the year

Particulars
DVK Investments Private Limited, the
HoldingCompany (Refer note 67)
Mr. Krishna Datla
Mr.Satish Varma
Mrs. Anupama Datla Desai
Mrs. Preeti Thakkar
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
% change
during the year
No of Shares
in lakhs
% holding in
the class
150.75
51.22%
-51.22%
24.61
8.36%
25.65%
0.23
0.08%
11.65%
5.14
1.75%
6.96%
1.92
0.65%
6.96%
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
% change
during the year
No of Shares
in lakhs
% holding in
the class
150.75
51.22%
-51.22%
24.61
8.36%
25.65%
0.23
0.08%
11.65%
5.14
1.75%
6.96%
1.92
0.65%
6.96%
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
% change
during the year
No of Shares
in lakhs
% holding in
the class
150.75
51.22%
-51.22%
24.61
8.36%
25.65%
0.23
0.08%
11.65%
5.14
1.75%
6.96%
1.92
0.65%
6.96%
March 31, 2024 % change
during the year
No of Shares
in lakhs
% holding in
the class
% holding in
the class
- - 51.22% -51.22%
100.10 34.01% 8.36% 25.65%
34.53 11.73% 0.08% 11.65%
25.61 8.70% 1.75% 6.96%
22.40 7.61% 0.65% 6.96%

Changes in shareholding is pursuant to merger (Refer note 67)

232 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Note 23- Other equity
(Hin Lakhs)
Total 35,771.10 85.02 (5,107.52) - 7.85 (419.97) (101.85) (147.48) 1.36 30,088.51 (2,305.98) 3.91 13.24 (360.93) 19.06 (15.42) 27,442.39 # Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)
Items of other
comprehensive income
Equity
instruments
through OCI
26.29 - - 6.10 32.39 - - - 6.75 39.14
Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
49.83 - - (164.74) (114.91) - - - (34.45) (149.36)
Reserves and surplus Retained
earnings
32,638.05 820.35 (5,107.52) (419.97) - 11.16 1.36 27,943.43 (2,305.98) 3.91 - (360.93) - 12.28 25,288.80
Share options
outstanding
account
1,469.19 - (42.09) (101.85) - 1,325.25 - (70.86) - - 19.06 - 1,273.45
General
reserve
3,545.80 196.30 - - - 3,742.10 - - - - 3,742.10
Unrealised
gain/(loss)
on dilution
(4,242.26) - - - (4,242.26) - - - - (4,242.26)
Securities
premium
reserve
- 102.85 - 42.09 7.85 - - - 152.79 - 70.86 13.24 - - - 236.89
Capital
redemption
reserve
70.00 - - - 70.00 - - - - 70.00
Capital reserve
pursuant to
amalgamation
1,074.20 (1,034.48) - - - 39.72 - - - - 39.72
Capital
reserve
1,140.00 - - - 1,140.00 - - - - 1,140.00
Particulars Balance as at April 01, 2022 Pursuant to merger (Refer note 67) Loss for the year Transfer to equity share capital
on excerise of options
Premium on issue of equity share
on stock option excerise
Payment of dividend (Gross) Recognition of share based
payments
Other comprehensive income for
the year
Payment towards aquisition of
minority interest
Balance as at March 31, 2023 # Loss for the year Transfer to equity share capital
on excerise of options
Premium on issue of equity share
on stock option excerise
Payment of dividend (Gross) Recognition of share based
payments
Other comprehensive income for
the year
Balance as at March 31, 2024

Annual Report 2023-24 | 233

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 23- Other equity (Contd.)

Description of nature and purpose of each reserve

Capital reserve: Capital reserve was created in the financial years 1995-96 and 1996-97 pursuant to sale of the Parent Company’s brands for which non compete fees were received and treated as a capital receipt.

Capital reserve pursuant to amalgamation : This reserve created pursuant to amalgamation of 2 subsidiaries and its holding company.

Capital redemption reserve: This reserve was created for redemption of preference shares of H70.00 lakhs in the financial year 2010-2011.

Unrealised gain/(loss) on dilution: This reserve represents unrealised gain/(loss) due to change in the shareholdings in a subsidiary.

General Reserve: Under the erstwhile Companies Act 1956, general reserve was created through an annual transfer of net income at a specified percentage in accordance with applicable regulations. The purpose of these transfers was to ensure that if a dividend distribution in a given year is more than 10% of the paid-up capital of the Company for that year, then the total dividend distribution is less than the total distributable results for that year. Consequent to introduction of Companies Act 2013, the requirement to mandatorily transfer a specified percentage of the net profit to general reserve has been withdrawn. However, the amount previously transferred to the general reserve can be utilised only in accordance with the specific requirements of Companies Act, 2013.

Securities premium: The amount received in excess of face value of the equity shares is recognised in securities premium. This reserve is utilised in accordance with the specific provisions of the Companies Act 2013.

Share options outstanding account: The fair value of the equity settled share based payment transactions is recognised in share options outstanding account.

Retained earnings: Retained earnings are the profits/(loss) that the company has earned/incurred till date, less any transfers to general reserve, dividends or other distributions paid to shareholders. Retained earnings include re-measurement loss / (gain) on defined benefit plans, net of taxes that will not be reclassified to Statement of Profit and Loss.

Equity instruments through other comprehensive income: This represents the cumulative gains / losses arising on the revaluation of equity instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income, under an irrevocable option, net of amounts reclassified to retained earnings when such assets are disposed off.

Foreign currency translation reserve: Exchange differences relating to the translation of the results and net assets of the Group’s foreign operations from their functional currencies to the Group’s presentation currency (i.e. H) are recognised directly in the other comprehensive income and accumulated in foreign currency translation reserve. Exchange difference in the foreign currency translation reserve are reclassified to consolidated profit or loss on the disposal of the foreign operations.

Note 24- Long-term borrowings:

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Secured
Term Loans
From Banks
For Kullu facility [Refer note below(a)]
For Dahejfacility [Refer note below(b)]
For Dahejfacility [Refer note below(c)]
For Dahejfacility [Refer note below(d)]
For Vehicles[Refer note below(e)]
For WCTL[Refer note below(f)]
For Dahejfacility [Refer note below(g)]
From others
For business operations[Refer note below(h)]
Amount disclosed under the head “other current fnancial
liabilities”(Refer note 28)
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
Non-current
Current
2,613.15
653.29
-
431.28
838.64
561.17
87.83
666.28
390.78
127.07
1,558.33
141.67
135.71
27.14
2,734.46
572.08
8,358.90
3,179.98
-
(3,179.98)
8,358.90
-
March 31, 2023 #
Non-current
Current
2,613.15
653.29
-
431.28
838.64
561.17
87.83
666.28
390.78
127.07
1,558.33
141.67
135.71
27.14
2,734.46
572.08
8,358.90
3,179.98
-
(3,179.98)
8,358.90
-
Non-current Current Current
1,931.51 681.71 653.29
- - 431.28
270.23 559.50 561.17
- 91.61 666.28
277.89 135.50 127.07
1,168.19 425.00 141.67
108.58 27.14 27.14
497.20 318.82 572.08
4,253.60 2,239.28 3,179.98
- (2,239.28) (3,179.98)
4,253.60 - -

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

234 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 24- Long-term borrowings: (Contd.)

Notes

  • a) Term loan is taken from HDFC Bank Limited for financing the capital expenditure for Premix Plant to be set up at Kullu with interest rate EURIBOR plus 3.0% (Average effective rate 6.38%), (previous year effective rate is 4.36%) repayable in 60 equal monthly instalments starting from Feb-2023. The said loan is secured by first pari-passu charge on the project , first pari pasu charge on property, plant and equipment at Dahej and Kullu except plant 3 at Dahej which is exclusively mortgaged with Yes Bank Limited and Union Bank of India, and second pari passu charge on entire current assets along with other banks.

  • b) Term loan (External Commercial Borrowing) is taken from Yes Bank Limited for financing the capital expenditure for new project at Dahej SEZ with interest rate EURIBOR plus 3.5% (Average effective rate 7.08 %), (previous year effective rate is 6.38%) repayable in 48 equal monthly instalments starting from February 2020. The said ECB loan was secured by way of first pari-passu charge on the project financed along with Union Bank of India, first pari-passu charge along with Union Bank of India and HDFC Bank Limited on property, plant and equipment at Kullu and Dahej, except Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu which is exclusively mortgaged with HDFC Bank Limited , which is not to be shared with HDFC Bank Limited. The said loan was additionally secured by way of first pari passu charge along with Union Bank of India and HDFC Bank Limited on entire unencumbered movable fixed assets (excluding vehicles) and second pari passu charge on entire current assets. The entire loan has been repaid during the financial year.

  • c) Term loan is taken from HDFC Bank Limited for financing the capital expenditure for Plant 4 at Dahej SEZ with interest rate EURIBOR plus 3.9% (effective rate 3.9%), (previous year effective rate is 3.9%) repayable in 16 equal quarterly instalments starting from July 2021. The said loan is secured by first pari-passu charge on the project , first pari pasu charge on property, plant and equipment at Dahej and Kullu except plant 3 at Dahej which is exclusively mortgaged with Yes Bank Limited and Union Bank of India, and second pari passu charge on entire current assets along with other banks. Effective rate is 3.9% on account of Interest rate swap agreement entered by the company.

  • d) Term loan (Foreign Currency Term Loan and INR Term Loan) is taken from Union Bank of India for financing the capital expenditure for Cholesterol project at Dahej SEZ with interest rate EURIBOR plus 3.10% (effective rate 6.13%) (previous year effective rate is 5.50%) for FCTL, MCLR + 2% (effective rate 10.67% to 11.60%) (previous year effective rate is 9.96% to 10.34%) for Rupee Term Loan repayable in 48 equal monthly instalments starting from April 2020. The said loan is secured by way of first pari-passu charge on the project financed along with Yes Bank Limited not to be shared with HDFC Bank Limited, first pari-passu charge along with Yes Bank Limited and HDFC Bank Limited on property, plant and equipment at Kullu and Dahej, except Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu which is exclusively mortgaged with HDFC Bank Limited. The said loan is additionally secured by way of first pari passu charge along with Yes Bank and HDFC bank on entire unencumbered movable fixed assets (excluding vehicles) and second pari passu charge on entire current assets. Foreign Currency Term Loan has been repaid during the period.

  • e) “Vehicle loans taken from HDFC Bank Limited against hypothecation of the vehicles purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Aug-2020, to Sep-2021 with average interest rates in the range of 7.65% to 8.45%, (previous year at 7.65% to 8.20% ). The charge for first loan is yet to be created.

Vehicle loans taken from the Bank of Baroda Limited against hypothecation of the vehicle purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Jan-2021 to May-2021 with average interest rates in the range of 9.65% to 9.85%, (previous year at 9.85%).

Vehicle loan is taken from the Union Bank of India against hypothecation of the vehicle purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Jan-2022 to Oct-2022 with average interest rates in the range of 9.17% to 10.09% (previous year in the range of 9.05% to 9.90%)

Vehicle loan is taken from the Yes Bank of India against hypothecation of the vehicle purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Jun-2023 with average interest rates 9.17%, (previous year in the range of NIL)”

Vehicle loan is taken from the Union Bank of India against hypothecation of the vehicle purchased, repayable in 60 monthly instalments starting from Oct-2022 with interest rates 9.05%, (previous year in the range of NIL)

  • f) Working Capital Term Loan is taken from Union Bank of India for business purpose with interest rate 1 Year MCLR+0.60% effective rate 9.41% (previous year effective rate is 9.18%) repayable in 48 equal monthly instalments starting from Dec -23. The said loan is secured by first pari-passu charge on hypothecation of stocks, book debts and and by equitable mortgage with Yes Bank limited and HDFC Bank Limited of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu and all moveable property, plant and equipments of the Company and second charge on the existing securities of the company except plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 235

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 24- Long-term borrowings: (Contd.)

  • g) Term loan is taken from HDFC Bank Limited for financing the capital expenditure at Dahej SEZ with average interest rate 9.42% ( Previous year effective rate is 7.98%) repayable in 28 equal quarterly instalments starting from Apr 2022. The said loan is secured by first pari-passu charge on the project , first pari pasu charge on property, plant and equipment at Dahej and Kullu except plant 3 at Dahej which is exclusively Mortgaged with Yes Bank Limited and Union Bank of India, and second pari passu charge on entire current assets along with other banks.

  • h) Loan against property and loan by way of discounting of lease rental of Thane One Building consisting of 1[st] floor to 13[th] floor from Bajaj Finance Limited, the effective rate for the current year in the range of 11.20% to 11.45% (previous year effective rate in the range of 8.00% to 11.20%) The said loan is secured by hypothecation of the lease agreements of Thane One (consisting of 1[st] floor to 13[th] floor) and equitable mortgage of the premises at Ceejay House. Further these loans have been guaranteed by the personal guarantee of the Executive Vice Chairman of the Company. In the current year the hypothecation of Thane One (consisting of 1[st] floor to 13[th] floor) was removed and only the mortgage of the premises at Ceejay House exist.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 25 - Other financial liabilities (Non- current)

Note 25 - Other fnancial liabilities (Non- current)
Particulars
Deposits from tenants
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
108.38
108.38
March 31, 2024
353.84
353.84

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 26 - Provisions (Non- current)
Particulars
Provisions for employee benefts:
Gratuity [Refer note 44(c)]
Compensated absences
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
214.28
248.18
462.46
March 31, 2024
256.22
279.24
535.46

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 27 - Other liabilities (Non-current)
Particulars
Deferred revenue
Deposits from Developers[Refer note 66]
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
894.40
1,500.00
2,394.40
March 31, 2024
1,846.74
1,397.18
3,243.92

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 28 - Borrowings (Current)
Particulars
Loans repayable on demand
From banks (Secured)
Cash credit and Bank overdraft
Packingcredit
Short term Workingcapital loan
From banks (Secured)
Current maturities of long-term debts (Refer note 24)
From others (Secured)
For business operations (Refer note 24)
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,753.59
3,090.35
5,301.70
2,607.90
572.08
13,325.62
March 31, 2024
507.74
3,226.94
2,999.53
1,920.46
318.82
8,973.49

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

236 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 28 - Borrowings (Current) (Contd.)

Packing credit, cash credit Loan from Union Bank of India, are secured by first pari-passu charge on hypothecation of stocks, book debts and and by equitable mortgage with Yes Bank limited and HDFC Bank Limited of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu and all moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company except vehicles and Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu. The average interest rate for packing credit in foreign currency is 6.35% to % 7.39% (EURO PCFC - EURIBOR+3.10%, USD PCFC - 6M LIBOR+3.10%) and average interest rate for cash credit is 11.87 %.

Packing credit and cash credit Loan from Yes Bank Limited is secured by first pari-passu charge on current assets of the Company and by equitable mortgage of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu with Union Bank of India and HDFC Bank Limited and all moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company except vehicles and Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu. The average interest rate for packing credit in foreign currency is 5.50%. and average interest rate for cash credit is 1 YR MCLR+0.95 (from 10.40% to 11.50%)

Packing credit Loan from HDFC Bank Limited is secured by first pari-passu charge on current assets, exclusive charge on assets of plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu, moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company and equitable mortgage of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu with Union Bank of India and Yes Bank Limited (excluding the plant and building financed through term loan from Union Bank of India and Yes Bank Limited).The average interest rate for packing credit in foreign currency is 6.50% .

Short term working capital loan includes Working Capital Demand Loan from Yes Bank Limited secured by first pari-passu charge on current assets of the Company and by equitable mortgage of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu with Union Bank of India and HDFC Bank Limited and all moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company except vehicles and Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu. It also includes Working Capital Demand Loan from HDFC Bank Limited secured by first pari-passu charge on current assets of the Company and by equitable mortgage of factory land and buildings at Dahej and Kullu with Union Bank of India and Yes Bank Limited and all moveable property, plant and equipment of the Company except vehicles and Plant 4 at Dahej and Premix Plant at Kullu and short term loans taken from Union Bank of India are secured against the lien of fixed deposits. The average interest rate for short term working capital loan from Union Bank is in the range of 5.77% to 6.77% and Working Capital Demand Loan from Yes Bank is 8.90% and Working Capital Demand Loan from HDFC Bank Limited 8.90% to 9.05%

Note 29 Trade payables (Current)

Note 29 Trade payables (Current)
Particulars
Total outstandingdues of micro and small enterprises (Refer note 64)
Total outstandingdues of creditors other than micro and small enterprises
Disputed dues of micro and small enterprises
Disputed dues of creditors other than micro and small enterprises
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
280.47
4,299.02
-
-
4,579.49
March 31, 2024
237.63
6,252.79
-
-
6,490.42

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 2024

Ageing of trade payables: as at Ma
Particulars
Dues of (MSME)
Dues of creditors other than MSME
Disputed dues of MSME
Disputed dues of creditors other than
MSME
Total
rch 31, 202 4 (Hin Lakhs)
Unbilled Not due Outstanding for the following period from due
date ofpayments
Total
Less than
1year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
- - 220.61 16.91 0.11 - 237.63
1,873.72 1,317.28 2,145.92 132.11 60.29 723.47 6,252.79
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - -
1,873.72 1,317.28 2,366.54 149.01 60.40 723.47 6,490.42

Annual Report 2023-24 | 237

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 29 Trade payables (Current) (Contd.)

Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 2023

Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 202 Ageing of trade payables: as at March 31, 202 3 (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Unbilled Not due Outstanding for the following period from due
date ofpayments
Total
Less than
1year
1-2 years 2-3 years More than
3years
Dues of (MSME) - 3.71 276.00 0.76 - - 280.47
Dues of creditors other than MSME 885.95 754.25 2,535.27 25.91 25.88 71.76 4,299.02
Disputed dues of MSME - - - - - - -
Disputed dues of creditors other than
MSME
- - - - - - -
Total 885.95 757.96 2,811.27 26.67 25.88 71.76 4,579.49

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 30 - Other financial liabilities (Current)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Deposits from tenants
Payable to the employees / directors
Liabilityfor capital expenditure
Interest accrued but not due on borrowings
Derivatives not designated as hedge
Unclaimed dividend
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
268.71
136.58
373.82
49.24
64.78
15.21
908.34
0.70
600.08
55.36
50.70
42.51
16.98
766.33

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 31 - Other current liabilities (Current)

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Advance from customers
Statutorydues
Deferred rent
Others
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
1,512.93
156.01
17.84
0.01
1,686.79
601.78
108.36
18.31
101.00
829.45

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 32 - Provisions (Current)

Note 32 - Provisions (Current)
Particulars
Provision for employee benefts
Compensated absences
Otherprovisions
Others
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
58.14
202.73
260.87
March 31, 2024
59.43
47.00
106.43

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

238 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 33 - Current tax liabilities (net)
Particulars
Provision for income tax (net of advance tax for taxH2081.38 lakhs [as at March 31, 2023
H2104.95 lakhs])
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
32.53
32.53
March 31, 2024
34.13
34.13

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 34 - Revenue from operations

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Revenue from contracts with customers
Rent income (Refer Note 58)
Amortised deferred rent (Refer Note 58)
Sale of services
Service income (infrastructure support services to tenants) (Refer Note 58)
Sale of Investmentproperty(net) (Refer Note 58)
Other operatingrevenues
Export incentive
Scrapsales
Others
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
28,376.54
1,150.92
52.80
230.20
322.25
4,772.82
62.45
26.11
34,994.09
25,801.64
430.97
24.65
268.89
432.28
6,387.82
83.78
19.60
116.56
33,566.19

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 35 - Other income:
Particulars
Interest income on fnancial assets carried at amortised cost:
Bank deposits
Other fnancial assets
Dividend income on investment in equity instruments designated as at fair value
through other comprehensive income
Netgain on fair value changes of derivatives at FVTPL
Insurance Claims
Foreign exchangegain (net)
Liabilities /provisions no longer required written back
From Trade receivables
From Others
Miscellaneous income
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
145.51
58.03
203.54
90.63
-
1.29
210.77
20.19
331.66
351.85
1.51
859.59
March 31, 2024
214.11
143.20
357.31
90.36
22.27
5.37
125.71
25.63
540.92
566.55
13.26
1,180.83

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 239

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 36 - Cost of materials consumed:

Note 36 - Cost of materials consumed:
Particulars
Inventories of raw materials /packingmaterials at the beginningof theyear
Add: Purchases
Add: Foreign currencytranslation diference
Less : Inventories of raw materials /packingmaterials at the end of theyear
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
5,818.08
10,287.27
10.09
4,913.85
11,201.59
March 31, 2024
4,913.85
5,824.21
(39.84)
2,997.74
7,700.48

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 37 - Changes in inventories of finished goods, stock-in-trade and work-in-progress (H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Inventories at the end of theyear
Work-in-progress
Stock-in-Trade
Finishedgoods
Inventories at the beginning of theyear
Work-in-progress
Stock-in-Trade
Finishedgoods
Foreign currencytranslation diference
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
3,416.81
475.68
3,433.45
7,325.94
6,065.47
890.58
2,458.61
9,414.66
(162.68)
2,251.40
3,358.82
374.80
1,043.01
4,776.63
3,416.81
475.68
3,433.45
7,325.94
(62.15)
2,611.46

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 38 - Employee benefits expense

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Salaries and wages
Contribution toprovident and other funds [Refer note 44]
Gratuityexpense [Refer note 44]
Share basedpayments to employees [Refer note 60]
Staf welfare expenses
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
5,030.29
289.83
75.19
(101.85)
506.41
5,799.87
5,057.24
262.14
75.35
19.06
441.00
5,854.79

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 39 - Finance costs:

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Interest on
Term loans (Refer Note 65)
Loans repayable on demand
Lease liabilities (Refer Note 45)
Liabilities carried at amortised cost (Unwindingof interest)
Others
Other borrowingcosts
Total
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
1,075.04
716.97
32.08
54.52
20.58
179.04
2,078.23
530.78
751.26
36.76
138.43
137.06
110.31
1,704.60

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

240 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 40 - Depreciation and amortisation expense
Particulars
Depreciation ofproperty,plant and equipment (Refer note 3)
Depreciation on right-of-use assets (Refer note 5)
Depreciation of investmentproperty(Refer note 6A)
Amortisation of intangible assets (Refer note 7)
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,749.37
131.64
259.95
683.79
2,824.75
March 31, 2024
1,902.90
130.29
18.08
420.65
2,471.93

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 41 - Other expenses:

Note 41 - Other expenses:
Particulars
Stores and spareparts consumed
Processingcharges
GST other than recovered on sales
Contract labour charges
Power and fuel
Repairs and maintenance
Buildings
Plant and machinery
Others
Water charges
Advertisingand salespromotion expenses
Freight and forwardingcharges
Commission on sales
Rent (includinglease rentals)
Insurance
Rates and taxes
Allowance for doubtful debts
Allowance for doubtful advances
Trade receivables and advances written of
Travellingand conveyance
Professional and legal fees
Payment to auditors (Refer note 42)
Postage and telephone
Printingand stationery
Net loss on fair value changes of derivatives at FVTPL
SecurityExpenses
Staf recruitment expenses
Bank charges
Initial cost for operatingleases
Analytical Charges
Loss on sale/write of, ofproperty,plant and equipment (net)
Corporate social responsibilityexpenses
Directors sittingfees
Miscellaneous expenses
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,024.08
1,109.30
115.54
658.61
1,786.17
73.06
219.61
1,334.38
37.78
291.64
949.13
156.41
94.50
365.00
650.09
28.57
23.05
478.34
605.83
1,059.30
87.17
53.56
79.83
41.21
91.38
31.44
59.01
99.24
81.88
31.48
112.95
40.70
207.98
12,078.22
March 31, 2024
1,278.78
815.24
46.91
629.61
1,940.21
380.62
220.28
1,729.81
37.56
264.49
814.09
57.09
88.71
312.63
310.17
60.64
-
24.95
508.35
1,228.04
90.19
48.95
68.74
-
90.83
39.60
37.94
282.13
49.30
32.55
87.56
46.50
323.96
11,946.43

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 241

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 42 - Payment to auditors including subsidiary auditors excluding statutory levy

Note 42 - Payment to auditors including subsidiary auditors excludin
Particulars
For audit
For limited review
For other services
Reimbursement of expenses
g statutory levy (Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
68.56
15.00
1.40
2.21
87.17
March 31, 2024
73.49
15.00
0.90
0.80
90.19

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 43 - Earnings per share (EPS):

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share :

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share :
Particulars
Loss before exceptional items for the year used for computation of basic and diluted
earningsper share (Hin Lakhs) #
Loss after exceptional items for the year used for computation of basic and diluted
earningsper share (Hin Lakhs) #
Weighted average number of equity shares used in calculating basic EPS
[refer note 22(a)]
Efect of dilutivepotential equityshares
Weighted average number of equityshares used in calculatingdiluted EPS
Earnings per equity share ofH5 each before exceptional items
Basic earningsper equityshare [nominal value of shareH5 each (March 31, 2023:H5)]
Diluted earningsper equityshare [nominal value of shareH5 (March 31, 2023:H5)]
Earnings per equity share ofH5 each after exceptional items
Basic earningsper equityshare [nominal value of shareH5 each (March 31, 2023:H5)]
Diluted earningsper equityshare [nominal value of shareH5 (March 31, 2023:H5)]
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
(2,259.84)
(5,107.52)
2,88,57,303
3,28,842
2,91,86,145
(7.83)
(7.83)
(17.70)
(17.70)
March 31, 2024
(1,563.34)
(2,305.98)
2,88,74,107
3,12,038
2,91,86,145
(5.42)
(5.42)*
(7.99)
(7.99)*
  • Potential equity share are anti dilutive

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note: 44 - Employee benefits

The Group operates following employee benefit plans

  • I) Defined contribution plans: Provident fund, Superannuation fund, Employee state insurance scheme (ESIC) and Labour welfare fund.

  • II) Defined benefit plan: Gratuity (funded)

III) Other long term benefit plan: Compensated absences (unfunded)

I) Defined Contribution Plans

Defned Contribution Plans
Particulars
The Group operates defned contribution retirement beneft plans for all qualifying
employees of the Group. The contribution to defned contribution plan recognised
as expenses in the Consolidated statement of proft and loss for the year is as under
(Refer Note 38).
Employer's contribution toprovident fund
Employer's contribution to superannuation fund
Employer's contribution to ESIC and Employees Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI)
Employer's contribution to labour welfare fund
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
277.99
1.77
9.96
0.11
March 31, 2024
253.95
0.06
8.04
0.09

242 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note: 44 - Employee benefits (Contd.)

II) Defined benefit plan

The Group operates a defined benefit plan, viz., gratuity.

In respect of Gratuity, a defined benefit plan, contributions are made to LIC’s Recognised Group Gratuity Fund Scheme. It is governed by the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972. Under the Gratuity Act, employees are entitled to specific benefit at the time of retirement or termination of the employment on completion of five years or death while in employment. The level of benefit provided depends on the member’s length of service and salary at the time of retirement/termination. Provision for Gratuity is based on actuarial valuation done by an independent actuary as at the year end. Each year, the Company reviews the level of funding in the gratuity fund.

  • (a) Movements in the present value of the defined benefit obligation are as follows:
Movements in the present value of the defned beneft obligation are as fo
Particulars
Opening defned beneft obligation
Interest cost
Current service cost
Beneftspaid
Actuarial (Gain)/loss on obligations- due to change in fnancial assumptions
Actuarial (Gain)/Loss on obligations- due to change in demographic
assumptions
Actuarial (Gain)/loss on obligations- due to change in experience adjustment
Closing defned beneft obligation
lows: (Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
559.37
35.44
63.13
(77.59)
(19.48)
-
8.89
569.76
March 31, 2024
569.76
38.62
60.69
(78.87)
11.54
-
(22.70)
579.05

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

  • (b) Movements in the fair value of the plan assets are as follows:
Movements in the fair value of the plan assets are as follows:
Particulars
Opening fair value ofplan assets
Employer's contributions
Interest income
Administration expenses
Remeasurementgain / (loss) :
Return onplan assets (excludingamounts included in net interest expense)
Beneftpaid
Closing fair value ofplan assets
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
370.90
38.21
23.39
-
0.57
(77.59)
355.48
March 31, 2024
355.48
21.14
23.96
-
1.12
(78.87)
322.83

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

  • (c) Reconciliation of fair value of plan assets and defined benefit obligation:

The amount included in the financial statements arising from the Group’s obligation in respect of its defined benefit obligation plan is as follows:

Particulars
Fair value ofplan assets
Present value of obligation
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated balance sheet surplus/(defcit)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
355.48
569.76
(214.28)
March 31, 2024
322.83
579.05
(256.22)

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 243

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note: 44 - Employee benefits (Contd.)

  • d) The amount recognised in Consolidated statement of profit and loss in respect of the defined benefit plan are as follows:
Particulars
Current service cost
Net interest expense / (income)
Components of defned beneft costs recognised in Consolidated
statement ofproft and loss
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
63.13
12.06
75.19
March 31, 2024
60.69
14.66
75.35

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

# Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67) # Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)
e) The amount recognised in other comprehensive income in respect of the defned beneft plan is a
Particulars
March 31, 2024
Remeasurement on the net defned benefts liability:
Return onplan assets (excludingamounts included in net interest expense)
1.12
Actuarialgains/ (losses) arisingfrom changes in fnancial assumptions
(11.54)
Actuarialgains / (losses) arisingfrom changes in demographic assumptions
-
Actuarialgains / (losses) arisingfrom changes in experience adjustments
22.70
Components of defned beneft recognised as income / (loss) in other
comprehensive income
12.28
s follows:
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
0.57
19.48
-
(8.89)
11.16
March 31, 2024
1.12
(11.54)
-
22.70
12.28

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

  • f) The principal assumptions used for the purpose of the actuarial valuations were as follows:
The principal assumptions used for the purpose of the actuarial valuations
Particulars
Discount rate(per annum)
Salaryescalation rate(per annum)
Expected rate of return onplan assets(per annum)
Retirement age
Mortality rate during employment (per annum)
LeavingService(Agegroups)
were as follows: (Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
7.45%
5.00%
7.05%
58 Years
Indian Assured lives
Mortality (2012-14)
21-30years - 4%
31-40years - 3%
41-50years - 2%
Above 50years - 1%
March 31, 2024
7.20%
5.00%
7.05%
58 Years
Indian Assured lives
Mortality (2012-14)
21-30years - 4%
31-40years - 3%
41-50years - 2%
Above 50years - 1%

The estimates of rate of escalation in salary considered in actuarial valuation, take into account inflation, seniority, promotion and other relevant factors including supply and demand in the employment market. The above information is certified by the actuary.

The expected rate of return on plan assets is considered as per declaration from Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) . The expected contributions for defined benefit plan for the next financial year is H35 Lakhs (March 31, 2023: H35.00 Lakhs).

(g) Maturity analysis of projected benefit obligation

Particulars
Expected benefts for Year 1
Expected benefts for Year 2
Expected benefts for Year 3
Expected benefts for Year 4
Expected benefts for Year 5
Expected benefts for Year 6
Expected benefts for Year 7
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
102.81
27.71
38.36
60.52
72.92
44.35
20.26
March 31, 2024
92.28
38.54
61.67
74.23
40.33
20.83
34.90

244 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note: 44 - Employee benefits (Contd.)


Particulars
Expected benefts for Year 8
Expected benefts for Year 9
Expected benefts for Year 10 and above
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
32.97
30.36
807.52
March 31, 2024
26.59
29.01
772.48

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

  • h) The major categories of plan assets as a percentage of the fair value of total plan assets are as follows:
Particulars
Insurer managed funds
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
100%
March 31, 2024
100%

(i) Sensitivity analysis

Significant actuarial assumptions for determination of the defined benefit obligation are discount rate, expected salary increase and employee turnover. The sensitivity analysis below has been determined based on reasonably possible changes of the assumptions occurring at end of year, while holding all other assumptions constant. The result of sensitivity analysis is given below:

Particulars
Discount rate(- 0.50%)
Discount rate(+ 0.50%)
SalaryEscalation Rate(- 0.50%)
SalaryEscalation Rate(+ 0.50%)
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023
(Decrease)/increase in DBO*
4.31%
(-4.01%)
(-3.93%)
4.19%
March 31, 2024
(Decrease)/increase in DBO*
4.20%
(-3.92%)
(-3.84%)
4.09%

*’DBO: Defined benefit obligation

  • (j) Risks exposure:

The plan typically exposes the Company to actuarial risks such as: investment risk, interest risk, longevity risk and salary risk.

Investment risk : The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated using a discount rate determined by reference to market yields on government bonds denominated in Indian rupees. If the actual return on plan assets is below this rate, it will create a plan deficit. However, the risk is mitigated by investment in LIC managed fund.

Interest risk : A decrease in the bond interest rate will increase the plan liability; however, this will be partially offset by an increase in the value of the plan’s investment in LIC managed fund.

Longevity risk : The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated by reference to the best estimate of the mortality of plan participants both during and after their employment. An increase in the life expectancy of the plan participants will increase the plan’s liability.

Salary risk : ‘The inherent risk for the Company mainly are adverse salary growth or demographic experience or inadequate returns on underlying plan assets can result in an increase in cost of providing these benefits to employees in future. Since the benefits are lump sum in nature the plan is not subject to any longevity risks.

III) Other long term benefit plan

Actuarial valuation for compensated absences is done as at the year end and provision is made as per Company rules with corresponding charge / (credit) to the Standalone statement of profit and loss amounting to H116.56 Lakhs [March 31, 2023: (H77.02 Lakhs)] and it covers all regular employees. Major drivers in actuarial assumptions, typically, are years of service and employee compensation.

Obligation in respect of defined benefit plan and other long term employee benefit plans are actuarially determined at the year end using the “Projected unit credit model”. Gains and losses on changes in actuarial assumptions relating to defined benefit obligation are recognised in OCI where as gains and losses in respect of other long term employee benefit plans are recognised in the Standalone statement of profit and loss.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 245

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 45 - Leases:

(A) Assets taken on lease

The Group has entered into agreements for taking on leave and license basis certain residential and office premises and also taken vehicles on lease basis. The Group also has lease arrangements for lands taken on lease at Dahej and Saykha. The lease term in respect of these leases ranges from 2 to 99 years. In respect of the said leases, the additional information is as under

Particulars
Depreciation charge for right-of-use assets
Expenses relating to leases of low-value assets accounted for on straight line basis
(included in Rent expenses in Note 41)
Finance cost
Maturity analysis of lease liabilities (on undiscounted basis)
Particulars
Less than oneyear
One to fveyears
More than fveyears
Weighted average incremental borrowing rate applied to lease liabilities
recognised in the balance sheet
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
131.63
94.50
32.08
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
88.02
167.09
93.10
10%
March 31, 2024
130.29
88.71
36.76
March 31, 2024
143.13
609.37
54.97
8.75%
Set out below are the carrying amounts of lease liabilities (included under fnancial liabilities) and the movements during the Set out below are the carrying amounts of lease liabilities (included under fnancial liabilities) and the movements during the Set out below are the carrying amounts of lease liabilities (included under fnancial liabilities) and the movements during the
year: (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
As at the beginningof theyear 267.78 479.05
Pursuant to scheme of amalgamation (Refer Note 67) - (157.30)
Interestpayment Lease liabilities (Refer Note 39) 36.76 32.08
Addition(net) 479.08 41.89
Payments (133.92) (127.94)
As at the end of theyear 649.69 267.78
Leas liabilities
Current 95.81 68.67
Non-Current 553.88 199.11
Total Lease liabilities 649.69 267.78

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

General description of significant leasing agreements

(i) Refundable interest free deposits have been given under lease agreements.

(ii) Some of the agreements provide for early termination by either party with a specified notice period / renewal with conditions

246 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 45 - Leases: (Contd.)

B. Assets given on lease

The Group has also entered into various operating lease agreements for its properties in Thane with original lease periods expiring up to January 2028. These agreements have a non-cancellable period at the beginning of the period for 3/5 years and have rent escalation provisions of 5% every year or 15% after 3 years.

Particulars
a)
Rent income recognised in the Consolidated statement ofproft and loss
b)
Future minimum lease income under the non-cancellable leases in the
aggregate and for each
of the following periods:
i)
Not later than oneyear
ii) Later than oneyear and not later than fveyears
iii) More than fveyears
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,150.92
276.82
662.37
-
March 31, 2024
430.97
316.36
946.98
-

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 46 - Segment information:

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) of the Parent Company. The Managing Director of the Parent Company, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the CODM of the Parent Company. The Group has identified the following segments as reporting segments based on the information reviewed by CODM.

The business segments have been identified considering :

  • a) the nature of products and services

  • b) the differing risks and returns

  • c) the internal organisation and management structure, and

  • d) the internal financial reporting systems

The segment information presented is in accordance with the accounting policies adopted for preparing the consolidated financial statements of the Group. Segment revenues, expenses and results include inter-segment transfers.

A) The primary reporting of the Group has been performed on the basis of business segments, viz:

Chemicals/Bulk Drug- Manufacturing and selling of chemicals, primarily bulk drugs and enzymes.

Property - Renting and sale of properties

Segments have been identified and reported based on the nature of the services, the risk and returns, the organisation structure and the internal financial reporting systems.

2023-2024
2022-2023 #
Bulk Drug/Chemicals Property Total
a. Revenue
1
Segment revenue
25,920.84 7,374.15 33,294.99
27,958.16 6,303.36 34,261.52
Less : Inter-segment revenue - - -
- - -
Unallocated revenue (net) 1,452.03
1,592.16
2
Total
34,747.02
35,853.68

Annual Report 2023-24 | 247

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 46 - Segment information: (Contd.)

2023-2024
2022-2023 #
Bulk Drug/Chemicals Property Total
b. Result
1
Segment (loss) /proft before Tax and fnance cost
(5,081.40) 6,523.94 1,442.54
(5,650.53) 5,368.89 (281.64)
2
Finance costs
1,704.60
2,078.23
3
Unallocable income/(expenditure) (net)
17.40
77.03
4
Loss before Exceptional Items and tax
(244.66)
(2,282.84)
5
Exceptional item (Loss)
(742.64)
(2,847.68)
6
Tax expense
- current tax 168.02
18.15
- deferred tax charge -
280.07
- Adjustment of tax related to earlieryears 1,245.55
(115.57)
7
Loss after tax
(2,400.87)
(5,313.17)
c.
Other information
1.
Segment assets
44,201.98 1,481.83 45,683.81
47,322.15 3,461.53 50,783.68
2
Unallocated corporate assets
9,099.27
12,867.89
3.
Total assets
54,783.08
63,651.57
4.
Segment liabilities
8,520.60 4,208.26 12,728.86
5,505.36 3,982.57 9,487.93
5.
Unallocated corporate liabilities
13,537.91
22,907.16
6.
Total liabilities
26,266.77
32,395.09
7.
Cost incurred duringtheyear to acquire
- segment tangible and intangible assets 1,397.73 522.98 1,920.71
4,048.94 - 4,048.94
- unallocated segment tangible and intangible assets -
-
8.
Depreciation and amortization expense
2,453.85 18.08 2,471.93
2,564.80 259.95 2,824.75

(Figures in italics are the corresponding figures in respect of the previous year.)

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

248 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 46 - Segment information: (Contd.)

B) Geographical information

Geographical information is reported on the basis of the geographical location of the customers. The management views the Indian market and export markets as distinct geographical markets.

Revenue by market – The following is the distribution of the Group’s revenue by geographical market:

Particulars
India
Bulk Drug/Chemicals
Property
Others
Europe - Bulk Drug/Chemicals
USA - Bulk Drug/Chemicals
Others countries - Bulk Drug/Chemicals
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
8,811.01
6,303.36
1,592.87
6,819.94
4,187.84
8,139.66
35,853.68
March 31, 2024
9,405.69
7,374.15
1,452.02
5,711.85
3,728.82
7,074.49
34,747.02

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

The following is an analysis of the carrying amount of Non current assets excluding financials assets and deferred Tax Assets, analysed by geographical area in which the assets are located:

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
India
Outside-India
Total
Assets
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
27,762.30
31,851.32
173.25
1,013.74
27,935.55
32,865.06
March 31, 2024
27,762.30
173.25
27,935.55

The Group has not generated revenue aggregating more than 10% of the Group total revenue from any customer during the period (March 31, 2023 H Nil ).

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 47 - List of entities included in the consolidated financial statements is as under

Note 47 - List of entities included in the consoli dated fnancial statem ents is as under
(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Country of
Incorporation
India
India
Germany
United Kingdom
India
United States
United States
India
Proportion of ownership interest as at
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023
Note 1
Note 1
Note 1
Note 1
100%
100%
100%
100%
Note 2
Note 2
100%
100%
52%
52%
47%
47%
March 31, 2024
Parent Company:
Fermenta Biotech Limited Note 1
Subsidiaries
Aegean Properties Limited Note 1
Fermenta Biotech GmbH 100%
Fermenta Biotech(UK)Limited 100%
G.I. Biotech Private Limited(w.e.f. Novermber 26,2023)* Note 2
Fermenta Biotech USA LLC 100%
Fermenta USA LLC 52%
Associate
Health and Wellness India Private Ltd 47%

Note:

1) Pursuant to NCLT Order dated May 8, 2023 regarding Composite Scheme of Amalgamation and Arrangement, the Company’s Holding company, DVK Investments Private Limited (Transferor Company 1) and the Company’s subsidiary, Aegean Properties Limited (Transferor Company 2) have been merged with the Company (Refer Note 67)

2) The Company G. I. Biotech Private Limited has been struck off from the Registrar of companies (Mumbai) w.e.f. August, 04, 2023

Annual Report 2023-24 | 249

Act, 2013: March 31, 2023 # Share in
totalcomprehensive
income/(loss)
Jin Lakhs (5,683.06) - (2.53) (0.64) (2,619.79) (523.99) (205.65) (3,369.36) (5460.65)
% 104% 0% 0% 0% 48% 10% 4% -62% 100%
Share in other
comprehensive
income/(loss)
Jin
Lakhs
17.26 - - - (203.13) 38.39 - - (147.48)
% -12% - - - - - -12%
Share in proft/
(loss)
Jin Lakhs (5,700.32) - (2.53) (0.64) (2,416.66) (562.37) (205.65) 3369.36 (5313.17)
% 107% 0% 0% 0% 45% 11% 4% -63% 100%
Net assets, i.e., total
assets minus total
liabilities"
Jin Lakhs 33,605.70 - - 34.46 (3,464.19) 159.57 (274.90) 920.94 31,256.48
% 108% 0% 0% 0% -11% 1% 1% 3% 100%
March 31,2024 Share in total
comprehensive
income/(loss)
Jin Lakhs (1,855.30) - - (0.03) (964.13) (1,037.67) (94.89) 1440.84 (2,416.29)
% 77% 0% 0% 0% 40% 43% 4% -60% 100%
Share in other
comprehensive
income/(loss)
Jin
Lakhs
19.03 - - - (36.51) 2.06 - - (15.42)
% -123% - - - 237% -13% - - 100%
Share in proft/
(loss)
Jin Lakhs (1,874.33) - - (0.03) (927.62) (1,039.73) (94.89) 1,440.84 (2400.87)
% 78% 0% 0% 0% 39% 43% 4% -60% 100%
Net assets, i.e., total
assets minus total
liabilities
Jin Lakhs 31,422.61 . - - 34.44 (4,428.32) (878.11) (369.79) 2,365.29 28,516.31
% 110% 0% 0% 0% -16% -3% -1% 8% 100%
Name of the Entity Fermenta Biotech
Limited
Aegean Properties
Limited
G I Biotech Private
Limited
Fermenta Biotech (UK)
Limited
Fermenta Biotech GmbH Fermenta Biotech USA
LLC (Consolidated with
its subsidiary) "
Total Eliminations /
Consolidation
Adjustments
Total
Particulars Parent Company Subsidiary
Companies
a.India b.Foreign Non-controlling
interests in all
subsidiaries
Sr No I II III IV

250 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 49 - Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24

A) Names of the related parties where there are transactions and description of relationships

  • a) Holding Company:

  • DVK Investments Private Limited $

  • b) Key Management Personnel

Key Management Personnel
Name of Key Management Personnel Designation
Mr. Krishna Datla Executive Vice-Chairman
Mr. Satish Varma Executive Director
Mr. Sanjay Buch *(upto March 31, 2024) Non-Executive Director and Chairman
Mrs. Rajeshwari Datla (also relative of the Executive Vice-Chairman) Non-Executive Director
Mrs. Anupama Datla Desai (also relative of the Executive Vice-Chairman) Executive Director
Dr. Gopakumar Nair # Non-Executive Director
Mr. Vinayak Hajare *(upto March 31, 2024) Non-Executive Director
Mrs. Rajashri Ojha Non-Executive Director
Mr. Pramod Kasat Non-Executive Director
Mr. Pradeep Chandan**(w.e.f . February 12, 2024) Non-Executive Director and Chairman
Mr. Prashant Nagre Managing Director
Mr. Sumesh Gandhi Chief Financial Ofcer
Mr. Srikant N Sharma Company Secretary

$ Pursuant to NCLT Order dated May 8, 2023 regarding Composite Scheme of Amalgamation and Arrangement, the Company’s Holding company, DVK Investments Private Limited (Transferor Company 1) and the Company’s subsidiary, Aegean Properties Limited (Transferor Company 2) have been merged with the Company (Refer Note 67)

*Mr. Sanjay Buch ceased to be Non - Executive Independent Director and Chairman, and Mr. Vinayak Hajare ceased to be NonExecutive Independent Director from April 01, 2024, due to retirement

**Appointed as Independent Director w.e.f. February 12, 2024 and as Chairman w.e.f. April 01, 2024

Ceased to be Non-Executive Independent Director w.e.f. May 17, 2024, due to retirement

c) Associate

Health and Wellness India Private Limited

  • d) Enterprises under significant influence of key management personnel or their relatives: Magnolia FNB Private Limited (under the process of strike off)

Dupen Laboratories Private Limited

Lacto Cosmetics (Vapi) Private limited

Silk Road Communications Private Limited.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 251

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 49 - Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24 (Contd.)

B) Related party transactions:


te 4

9 - Related parties disclosures as per Ind A
S 24(Contd.) S 24(Contd.) S 24(Contd.) S 24(Contd.)
Rela ted party transactions: (Hin Lakhs)
Sr.
No.
Particulars Holding
Company
Key
management
personnel*
Enterprises under
signifcant infuence
of key management
personnel or their
relatives
Associates
1 Remuneration to Directors and Key Management
Personnel(including commission)*
Mr. Krishna Datla - 204.89 - -
(-) (227.60) (-) (-)
Mr. Satish Varma - 149.17 -
(-) (162.95) (-) (-)
Ms. Anupama Datla Desai - 105.75 - -
(-) (117.06) (-) (-)
Mr. Prashant Nagre - 158.44 - -
(-) (174.75) (-) (-)
Mr. Sumesh Gandhi - 87.27 - -
(-) (95.42) (-) (-)
Mr. Srikant N Sharma - 60.70 - -
(-) (65.40) (-) (-)
2 Directors sitting fees
Mr. Sanjay Buch - 8.60 - -
(-) (8.20) (-) (-)
Dr. Gopakumar Nair - 8.30 - -
(-) (7.80) (-) (-)
Ms. Rajeshwari Datla - 8.00 - -
(-) (7.50) (-) (-)
Mr. Vinayak Hajare - 8.60 - -
(-) (8.20) (-) (-)
Ms. Rajashri Ojha - 6.00 - -
(-) (5.00) (-) (-)
Mr. Pramod Kasat - 6.00 - -
(-) (4.00) (-) (-)
Mr. Pradeep Chandan - 1.00 - -
(-) (-) (-) (-)
3 Sale ofproducts
Dupen Laboratories Private Limited - - 43.76 -
(-) (-) (29.37) (-)
4 Rent income
Magnolia FNB Private Limited - - 0.18 -
(-) (-) (0.30) (-)
Silk Road Communications Private Limited - - 1.35 -
(-) (-) (1.35) (-)
5 Loangiven
Mr. Srikant N Sharma - (10.00) - -
(-) (-) (-) (-)

(Figures in brackets are the corresponding figures in respect of the previous year.)

  • Note: The remuneration to the key managerial personnel does not include the provisions made for gratuity and leave benefits, as they are determined on an actuarial basis for the company as a whole.

252 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 49 - Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24 (Contd.)

C) Balance outstanding as at the end of the year :

te 49 - Related parties disclosures as per Ind AS 24(Contd.)
Balance outstanding as at the end of the year :
Particulars
a. Trade receivables
Enterprises under signifcant infuence of key management personnel or
their relatives
Dupen Laboratories Pvt Ltd
Silk Road Communications Private Limited
b. Allowance for doubtful debts/advances
Associate
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
c. Provision for diminution in value of investments
Associate
Health and Wellness India Private Limited (includingshare application money)
d. Inter corporate deposits
Associate
Health and Wellness India Private Limited
e. Loangiven
Key managementpersonnel
Mr. Srikant N Sharma
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
8.66
0.13
37.00
784.86
37.00
-
March 31, 2024
-
0.40
37.00
784.86
37.00
6.94

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

D) The Group has granted ESOP options to Key management personnel as mentioned below and for terms Refer to note 60

Particulars No of Option
Grant
No of Option
Vested
No of Option
Cancelled
No of Option
Exercise
Mr. Sumesh Gandhi - 3,213 4,819.00 -
- (3,213) (4,819.00) -
Mr. Srikant Sharma - 2,409 3,614.00 -
(2,409) (3,614.00)

Note. Figure in brackets of previous year

All transactions entered into with Related Parties as defined under Regulations during the financial year were in the ordinary course of business and on arm’s length pricing basis.

Options to Key management personnel position :

Particulars No of Option
Grant
No of Option
Vested
No of Option
Cancelled /
**Forfeited ***
No of Option
Exercise
Total No.
of Option
Outstanding
Mr. Prashant Nagre 2,17,410 2,17,410 - - 2,17,410
Mr. Sumesh Gandhi 40,161 16,065 24,096 - 16,065
Mr. Srikant Sharma 30,117 12,047 18,070 - 12,047
  • The effect of total no. of option cancelled / forfeited on estimation accounted in the previous year March 31, 2023

Annual Report 2023-24 | 253

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 50 - Research and development expenditure:

Research and development expenditure of H1334.11 Lakhs (March 31, 2023: H1,338.60 Lakhs) (excluding interest and depreciation) has been charged to the Consolidated statement of profit and loss. The capital expenditure in the current year on research and development amounts to H5.92 Lakhs (March 31, 2023: H14.14 Lakhs).

Note 51 - During the year ended March 31, 2024, directors sitting fees to Non-Excecutive Directors aggregating H46.50 Lakhs has been charged to the Consolidated statement of profit and loss. (March 31, 2023 H40.70 Lakhs)

52 Categories of the financial instruments

(H in Lakhs )

Particulars
Financial Assets
(i) Investments
(ii) Trade receivables
(iii) Loans
(iv) Cash and cash equivalents
(v) Bank balances other than (iv) above
(vi) Other fnancial assets
Total
Financial Liabilities
Borrowings
Lease liabilities
Tradepayables
Other fnancial liabilities
Derivatives not designated as hedge
Total
March 31, 2024
Ammortised
Cost
FVTPL FVTOCI Total Carrying
value
Total Fair
value
5.91 - 37.45 43.36 43.36
6,982.51 - - 6,982.51 6,982.51
495.97 - - 495.97 495.97
2,182.87 - - 2,182.87 2,182.87
3,800.52 - - 3,800.52 3,800.52
487.10 - - 487.10 487.10
13,954.88 - 37.45 13,992.33 13,992.33
13,227.09 - - 13,227.09 13,227.09
649.69 - - 649.69 649.69
6,490.42 - - 6,490.42 6,490.42
1,077.66 - - 1,077.66 1,077.66
- 42.51 - 42.51 42.51
21,444.86 42.51 - 21,487.37 21,487.37

(H in Lakhs)

(Hin Lakhs)
Particulars March 31, 2023 #
Ammortised
Cost
FVTPL FVTOCI Total Carrying
value
Total Fair
value
Financial Assets
(i) Investments 5.91 - 30.70 36.61 36.61
(ii) Trade receivables 4,164.94 - - 4,164.94 4,164.94
(iii) Loans 120.00 - - 120.00 120.00
(iv) Cash and cash equivalents 3,529.05 - - 3,529.05 3,529.05
(v) Bank balances other than (iv) above 2,303.75 - - 2,303.75 2,303.75
(vi) Investments- Corporate fxed deposit 278.07 - - 278.07 278.07
(vii) Other fnancial assets 2,137.93 - - 2,137.93 2,137.93
Total 12,539.65 - 30.70 12,570.35 12,570.35
Financial Liabilities
(i) Borrowings 21,684.52 - - 21,684.52 21,684.52
(ii) Lease liabilities 267.78 - - 267.78 267.78
(iii) Tradepayables 4,579.49 - - 4,579.49 4,579.49
(iv) Other fnancial liabilities 951.94 - - 951.94 951.94
(v) Derivatives not designated as hedge 64.78 64.78 64.78
Total 27,483.73 64.78 - 27,548.51 27,548.51

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

254 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

53 Reconciliation of Level 3 fair value measurements:

53 Reconciliation of Level 3 fair value measurements:
Particulars
Opening balance
Totalgains or (losses)
Recognised in standalone statement ofproft and loss.
Closing balance
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
5.91
-
5.91
March 31, 2024
5.91
-
5.91

Note 54 - Fair Value

Fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities that are not measured at fair value but fair value disclosures are required :

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Financial assets
(i) Trade receivables
(ii) Cash and cash equivalents
(iii) Bank balances other than (ii) above
(iv) Investments- Corporate fxed deposit
(iv) Loans
(v) Others fnancial assets
Total assets
Financial liabilities
(i) Borrowings
(ii) Lease liabilities
(iii) Tradepayables
(iv) Other fnancial liabilities
(v) Derivatives not designated as hedge
Total liabilities
Non-current
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
6,982.51
4,164.94
2,182.87
3,529.05
3,800.52
2,303.75
-
278.07
495.97
120.00
487.10
2,137.93
13,948.97
12,533.74
13,227.09
21,684.52
649.69
267.78
6,490.42
4,579.49
1,077.66
951.94
42.51
64.78
21,487.37
27,548.51
Current
March 31, 2024
March 31, 2023 #
6,982.51
4,164.94
2,182.87
3,529.05
3,800.52
2,303.75
-
278.07
495.97
120.00
487.10
2,137.93
13,948.97
12,533.74
13,227.09
21,684.52
649.69
267.78
6,490.42
4,579.49
1,077.66
951.94
42.51
64.78
21,487.37
27,548.51
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2024
6,982.51 6,982.51
2,182.87 2,182.87
3,800.52 3,800.52
- -
495.97 495.97
487.10 487.10
13,948.97 13,948.97
13,227.09 13,227.09
649.69 649.69
6,490.42 6,490.42
1,077.66 1,077.66
42.51 42.51
21,487.37 21,487.37

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

The financial assets above do not include investments in equity instruments measured at fair value through OCI.

The Management largely due to short term maturity consider that the carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities recognised in the consildated financial statements approximate their fair values.

Note 55 -Fair value hierarchy :

Note 55 -Fair value hierarchy :
Particulars
Financial assets measured at fair value through Other
comprehensive income
Investments in equityshares-quoted
Investments in equityshares-unquoted
Financial Liabilities measured at fair value through proft or loss
Derivatives not designated as hedge
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Fair Value
Fair value
hierarchy
30.70
Level 1
5.91
Level 3
64.78
Level 2
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
Fair Value
Fair value
hierarchy
30.70
Level 1
5.91
Level 3
64.78
Level 2
March 31, 2024
Fair Value Fair value
hierarchy
Fair value
hierarchy
37.45 Level 1 Level 1
5.91 Level 3 Level 3
42.51 Level 2 Level 2

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 255

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 56 - Financial risk management objectives and policies

The Group is exposed to credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk. The Group's financial risk management is an integral part of how to plan and execute its business strategies. The Board of Directors review and agree policies for managing each of these risks, which are summarised below.

a) Market risk:

Market risk is the risk of loss of future earnings, fair values or future cash flows that may result from adverse changes in market rates and prices (such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices and equity price risk). Market risk is attributable to all market risk-sensitive financial instruments, all foreign currency receivables and payables and all short term and long-term borrowings. The Group is exposed to market risks related to foreign exchange rate risk, commodity rate risk, interest rate risk and other price risks, such as equity price risks. Thus, the Group’s exposure to market risk is a function of borrowing activities, revenue generating and operating activities in foreign currencies.

i) Equity price risk

The Group's unlisted equity securities are susceptible to market price risk arising form uncertainties about future values of the investments in securities. The Group manages the equity price risk through diversification and by placing limits on individual and total equity instruments. The Group's Board of Directors review and approve, all investments in the equity investments.

As at March 31, 2024 and March 31, 2023, the group had exposure to equity securities measured at fair value. The changes in fair values of the equity investments were strongly positively co-related with changes in market index.

ii) Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rate. The Group’s exposure to the risk of changes in market interest rates relates primarily to the Group's long-term and short term borrowings obligations with floating interest rates.

The Group manages it's interest rate risk by having a balanced portfolio of long term and short term borrowings.

Interest rate sensitivity

The following table demonstrates the sensitivity to a reasonably possible change in interest rates on the borrowings. With all other variables held constant, the Group’s profit before tax will be affected as below due to change in interest rate:

(Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs)
Year ended (+)Increase/(-) decrease
in basispoints
Efect on proft
(decrease) / increase #
March 31,2024 +0.50 (85.48)
-0.50 85.48
March 31,2023 +0.50 (117.39)
-0.50 117.39

Loss before tax will have an equal but opposite impact.

iii) Commodity rate risk

Exposure to market risk with respect to commodity prices primarily arises from the Group’s purchases and sales of active pharmaceutical ingredients, including the raw material components for such active pharmaceutical ingredients. The prices of the Group’s raw materials generally are stable. Cost of raw materials forms the largest portion of the Group’s cost of revenues. A large portion of the Group’s sales are subject to commodity rate risk having a volatile pricing. The group monitors overall demand supply position and pricing movement to decide marketing strategies to overcome risk of changing prices of the products.

iv) Foreign currency risk

The Group’s foreign exchange risk arises from its foreign currency revenues and expenses and foreign currency borrowings. As a result, if the value of the Indian rupee appreciates relative to these foreign currencies, the Groups’s revenues and expenses measured in Indian rupees may decrease or increase and vice-versa. The exchange rate between the Indian rupee and these foreign currencies have changed substantially in recent periods and may continue to fluctuate substantially in the future. Consequently, the Group largely uses the natural hedge to mitigate the risk of changes in foreign currency exchange rates in respect of its highly probable forecasted transactions and recognised assets and liabilities.

The year end foreign currency exposures that have not been hedged (before giving effects of natural hedge) by derivative instrument or otherwise are given below:

256 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 56 - Financial risk management objectives and policies (Contd.)

A) Significant foreign currency risk exposure relating to trade receivables, other financial assets and cash and cash equivalents :

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
(including EEFC)
Business advances
Trade receivables and other
fnancial assets
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Jin Lakhs
0.01
0.19
0.09
0.00
0.00
0.16
0.00
0.25
-
-
0.06
5.35
-
-
-
-
0.00
0.74
0.01
0.01
0.02
1.05
-
-
0.00
0.33
10.27
915.33
-
-
0.25
20.49
0.05
1.22
25.15
2,124.62
-
-
16.01
1,767.87
March 31, 2023 #
Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Jin Lakhs
0.01
0.19
0.09
0.00
0.00
0.16
0.00
0.25
-
-
0.06
5.35
-
-
-
-
0.00
0.74
0.01
0.01
0.02
1.05
-
-
0.00
0.33
10.27
915.33
-
-
0.25
20.49
0.05
1.22
25.15
2,124.62
-
-
16.01
1,767.87
Currency Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Jin Lakhs Jin Lakhs
AED 0.05 1.07 0.19
BDT 0.09 0.00 0.00
CAD 0.00 0.17 0.16
CHF 0.00 0.31 0.25
CZK 0.00 0.01 -
EUR 0.03 2.27 5.35
JPY 0.19 0.00 -
NZD 0.01 0.57 -
OMR 0.00 0.76 0.74
RUB 0.01 0.01 0.01
SGD 0.02 1.15 1.05
TRY 0.01 0.03 -
USD 0.25 20.61 0.33
EUR 10.43 936.83 915.33
GBP 0.01 0.76 -
USD 2.41 200.96 20.49
AED 0.00 0.04 1.22
USD 21.80 1,817.95 2,124.62
GBP 0.00 0.24 -
EURO 26.11 2,348.02 1,767.87

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

  • B) Significant foreign currency risk exposure relating to borrowings and trade payables :

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Financial liabilities
Tradepayable
Borrowings ( PCFC )
External Commercial
borrowing(ECB)
Foreign Currency Term
Loan (FCTL)
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
Currency
Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Hin Lakhs
EURO
7.11
633.16
USD
0.90
74.29
SGD
0.00
0.03
GBP
-
-
EURO
34.69
3,090.35
USD
-
-
EURO
4.90
436.15
EURO
40.67
3,623.29
March 31, 2023 #
Currency
Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Hin Lakhs
EURO
7.11
633.16
USD
0.90
74.29
SGD
0.00
0.03
GBP
-
-
EURO
34.69
3,090.35
USD
-
-
EURO
4.90
436.15
EURO
40.67
3,623.29
March 31, 2023 #
Currency
Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Hin Lakhs
EURO
7.11
633.16
USD
0.90
74.29
SGD
0.00
0.03
GBP
-
-
EURO
34.69
3,090.35
USD
-
-
EURO
4.90
436.15
EURO
40.67
3,623.29
Currency Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Jin Lakhs Amount in
foreign currency
( in Lakhs )
Hin Lakhs
EURO 15.61 1,403.62 7.11 633.16
USD 3.23 269.66 0.90 74.29
SGD - - 0.00 0.03
GBP 0.07 7.86 - -
EURO 31.91 2,867.49 34.69 3,090.35
USD 4.31 359.45 - -
EURO - - 4.90 436.15
EURO 29.08 2,613.22 40.67 3,623.29

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 257

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 56 - Financial risk management objectives and policies (Contd.)

C) Foreign currency sensitivity

For the years ended March 31, 2024 and March 31, 2023, every 5% strengthening in the exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the respective currencies for the above mentioned financial assets / liabilities would increase the Group’s profit and increase the Company’s total equity by approximately (net) H131.29 Lakhs and H211.52 Lakhs, respectively. A 5% weakening of the Indian rupee and the respective currencies would lead to equal but opposite effect. In Management’s opinion, the sensitivity analysis is unrepresentative of the inherent foreign exchange risk because the exposure at the end of the reporting period does not reflect the exposure during the year.

D) Derivative contracts

The Parent is exposed to exchange rate risk that arises from its foreign exchange revenues and expenses, primarily in US Dollars and Euros and foreign currency debts in US dollars and Euros. The Group uses cross currency interest rate swap (known as, "derivatives") to mitigate its risk of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The counterparty for these contracts is generally a bank.

The following table gives details in respect of the notional amount of outstanding foreign exchange derivative contract:

Particulars Currency Currency
Amount
Buy/Sell Cross
Currency
-
INR
INR
INR
March 31,
2024
-
-
1.06
41.46
March 31,
2023 #
Derivatives not designated
as hedges
- - -
Currencyhedges
Currencyhedges EUR EUR 14.09 Sell -
Currencyhedges USD USD 11.89 Sell -
Cross currency interest rate
swap
EUR Buy 64.78

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

b) Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group, if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations and arises principally from the Group’s receivables from customers, loans and other financial assets. Credit risk is managed through credit approvals, establishing credit limits and continuously monitoring the creditworthiness of counter party to which the Group grants credit terms in the normal course of business.

Exposure to credit risk

The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure.

i) Trade receivables

The Group has used expected credit loss (ECL) model for assessing the impairment loss. For this purpose, the Group uses a provision matrix to compute the expected credit loss amount. The provision matrix takes into account external and internal risk factors and historical data of credit losses from various customers. The Group evaluates the concentration of risk with respect to trade receivables which is low, as its customers are widely spread with small outstanding amounts (For detailed movement in provision for trade receivables - Refer note 16)

Trade receivables
Particulars
Not due
Less than 6 months
6 months-1year
1-2years
2-3years
Beyond 3years
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,754.35
2,328.88
-
94.66
25.53
391.21
4,594.63
March 31, 2024
4,514.34
2,306.73
86.86
19.09
95.25
411.18
7,433.45

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

258 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 56 - Financial risk management objectives and policies (Contd.)

ii) Financial instruments and cash deposits

  • Credit risk from balances with banks and financial institutions is managed by the Group's in accordance with the Group's policy. Investments of surplus funds are made only with approved counterparties and within credit limits assigned to each counterparty. Counterparty credit limits are reviewed by the Group's Board of Directors on an annual basis. The limits are set to minimise the concentration of risks and therefore mitigate financial loss through counterparty's potential failure to make payments. Credit risk in case of Intercorporate deposit given is managed by the Group's in accordance with the Group's policy. ICD only be given out of surplus funds, are made only with the approval of the Group's Board of Directors and are reviewed by the Group's Board on an annual basis.

c) Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to settle or meet its obligations as they fall due. The Group's policy on liquidity risk is to maintain sufficient liquidity in the form of cash and investment in liquid mutual funds to meet the Group's operating requirements with an appropriate level of headroom. In addition, processes and policies related to such risks are overseen by senior management. Management monitors the Group's net liquidity position through rolling forecasts on the basis of expected cash flows.

Maturity profile of financial liabilities

The table below provides details regarding the remaining contractual maturities of financial liabilities at the reporting date based on contractual undiscounted payments.

March 31, 2024
Borrowings
Other fnancial liabilities (including derivatives not
designated as hedge)
Lease liabilities
Tradepayables
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
Amount Less than 1
year
1 to 5 years More than 5
years
13,227.09 8,973.49 4,253.60 -
1,120.17 766.33 353.84 -
649.69 95.81 553.88 -
6,490.42 6,490.42 - -
21,487.37 16,326.05 5,161.32 -
March 31, 2023 # March 31, 2023 # (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars Amount Less than
1year
1 to 5 years More than
5years
Borrowings 21,684.52 13,325.62 8,324.90 34.00
Other fnancial liabilities 1,016.72 908.34 108.38 -
Lease liabilities 267.78 68.67 115.81 83.30
Tradepayables 4,579.49 4,579.49 - -
Total 27,548.51 18,882.12 8,549.09 117.30

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

The Group had unutilised credit limit of borrowing facilities as at March 31, 2024: H3,171.70 lakhs and as at March 31, 2023 H1,211.87 lakhs from banks.

Note 57 - Capital management

The Group’s capital management objectives are:

  • to ensure the Groups’s ability to continue as a going concern; and

  • to provide an adequate return to shareholders through optimisation of debts and equity balance.

The Group monitors capital on the basis of the carrying amount of debt less cash and cash equivalents as presented on the face of the Consolidated financial statements. The Group’s objective for capital management is to maintain an optimum overall financial structure.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 259

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 57 - Capital management (Contd.)

No te 57 - Capital management(Contd.)
(i) The gearing ratio at the end of the year was as follows:
Particulars
Debts (Term loans and loans repayable on demand including current maturities of
longterm borrowings)
Less: Cash and cash equivalents (Refer note 17)
Net debt
Total equity
Net debt to equity ratio
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
21,684.52
3,529.05
18,155.47
31,256.48
58%
March 31, 2024
13,227.09
2,182.87
11,044.22
28,516.31
39%

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

(ii) Dividend on equity shares paid during the year

Dividend on equity shares paid during the year
Particulars
Dividend on equity shares
Dividend for the year ended March 31, 2023 ofH1.25 per share on 2,94,30,987 equity
shares ofH5.00/- each, fully paid up (net of 5,56,880 equity shares ofH5.00/- each
which were held byESOP Trust) [Refer note 23(c)]
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
360.59
March 31, 2024
360.93

Dividends not recognised at the end of the reporting period

The Board of Directors of the Company at its meeting held on May 27, 2024 have recommended dividend of H1.25 per share. The proposed dividend is subject to the approval of shareholders in the ensuring annual general meeting and hence not recognised as a liability.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 58 - Investment properties

The Group investment properties consist of Thane One Building, Ceejay House and freehold land located at Majiwade Thane and at Takawe. Out of the 16 floors, ground to 13 floors have been considered as Investment property by the Management of which 13 floors has been sold.

Criteria used for classification of property as investment property

The Group has considered the following for classification of property as investment property:

  • (i) Investment property comprises building and other assets required to provide ancillary services to the occupants of the investment property.

  • (ii) The properties that are not occupied by the Group for use in production or supply of goods or services or for administrative purposes, or for sale in the ordinary course of business, but are held primarily to earn rental income and capital appreciation are classified as investment property.

The Group has a building which is primarily meant for renting is classified as an investment property, except for the part of that building which is used for administrative purposes, and hence classified as owner-occupied property. The Group has apportioned the cost of the property between investment property and owner-occupied property in the ratio of area used, respectively, as a percentage of total area.

The Group has sold 5 floors part of its Investment in Property consisting of floors sales in Thane One IT/ITES building accordingly, total income on sale of Investment Property for the year ended March 31, 2024 is H2,505.07 lakhs (previous year ended March 31, 2023 H4,772.82 lakhs, 8floors) and has been recognised as income under the head revenue from operation pertaining to property segment.

Further during the previous year Mr. Krishna Datla and Ms. Rajeshwari Datla on behalf of the Group entered in to “”Memorandum of Understanding”” to sell Freehold land located at Village Takwe (Budruk), Tal – Maval District – Pune admeasuring 21.39 Acres, with M/s. D1 Enterprises (as the Proposed Assignor) to and in favour of Nipro Pharmapackaging India Private Limited as the proposed purchaser of said land.

260 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 58 - Investment properties (Contd.)

In the current year, the Group has partially sold ( 1,40,100 Sq Mtr) freehold land located at Village Takawe not held in the name of the Group. The income on sale of such property for the year ended March 31, 2024 is H3,882.75 Lakhs which has been recognised as income under the head revenue from operations pertaining to property segment. Group has received advance of H329.20 lakhs (net of tax). (as at March 31. 2023 H841.50 lakhs [net of tax])”

Estimation of fair value

The fair value of the Investment Property has been determined in the financial period March 31, 2024 as H6724.72 Lakhs (March 31, 2023 as H21,626.49 Lakhs). The fair value has been determined by an external, independent property valuer, having appropriate professional qualification and recent experience in the location and category of the property being valued. The Company obtained independent valuation for its investment property and fair value measurement has been categorised as Level 3. The fair value has been arrived at by using comparable market rate approach. The main inputs used are quantum, area, location, demand, restrictive entry to the complex, age of building and trend of fair market rent in village Majiwada area and Takawe area.

Amount recognised in Consolidated statement of proft and loss
Particulars
Income from investmentproperties
Rent and Service Income
Sale of Property
Less: Direct operating expenses (including repairs and maintenance) generating
income from investmentproperties
Income arisingfrom investmentproperties
Less: Depreciation
Income/(loss) arising from investmentproperties after depreciation
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,530.54
4,772.82
674.51
5,628.85
(259.95)
5,368.89
March 31, 2024
986.33
6,387.82
832.13
6,542.02
(18.08)
6,523.94

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Refer note 45B for operating lease arrangements and total future minimum lease rentals receivable.

Refer note 6A for the existence of restrictions on the realisability of investment property or the remittance of income and proceeds of disposal.

Refer note 66 for deposit received against the signed Binding Term Sheet and grant of development rights to Mextech for construction of residential-cum-comercial buildings in the balance portion of Thane land.

Note 59 - Income tax

A Tax expense recognised in the Consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income consists of (H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Tax expenses:
Current tax
Adjusment of tax related to earlieryears
Deferred tax charge/(credit)
Income tax expense recognised in the Consolidated statement of proft
and loss
Tax expense recognised in other comprehensive income
Total tax expense
March 31, 2024
168.02
1,245.55
-
1,413.57
-
1,413.57
March 31, 2023 #
18.15
(115.57)
280.07
182.65
-
182.65

Annual Report 2023-24 | 261

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 59 - Income tax (Contd.)

  • B A reconciliation of income tax expense to the amount computed by applying the statutory income tax rate to the profit before income tax is summarised below: (H in Lakhs)
Particulars March 31, 2024
(987.30)
27.750%
(273.98)
(139.81)
(168.02)
(44.99)
(89.19)
(442.00)
168.02
1,245.55
1,413.57
-
1,413.57
March 31, 2023 #
(5,130.52)
28.800%
(1,477.59)
(1,873.47)
-
-
97.66
(1,775.81)
298.22
(115.57)
182.65
-
182.65
Loss before tax
Average StatutoryIncome tax rate as applicable togroupcompanies(%)
Income tax expense calculated at enacted income tax rate
Efect of tax on:
DTA not recognised on losses
MAT credit not recognised
Expenses disallowed under Income Tax Act
Others
Total income tax expense
Adjusment of Tax related to earlieryears **
Tax expense recognised inproft or loss
Tax expense recognised in other comprehensive income
Total tax expense

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

** During the year, the parent company has received intimation / final assessment order for the financial years 2016-17 to 2021-22 basis which an additional provision of tax is required on account of certain disallowances. Accordingly total MAT credit recognised of H1129.83 lakhs and Tax receivable recognised of H115.72 lakhs has been written off during the year relating to such earlier years.

C The major components of deferred tax (liabilities)/assets arising on account of temporary differences are as follows: (H in Lakhs)

Parameter
(I) Components of deferred tax assets(net)
Deferred tax liabilities
Property, Plant and Equipment, investment property and
intangible assets: Impact of diference between written
down value asper books of account and income tax
Lease Liability
Deferred tax assets
Expenses claimed for taxpurpose onpayment basis
Allowance for doubtful debts and advances
Allowance for impairment in the value of non current
investment and share application money
Lease assets
MAT Credit entitlement
Unabosrbed carried forward losses
Others
Deferred tax credit
Net deferred tax assets*
March 31, 2024
As at April
01, 2023
Statement of
proft and loss
Other
comprehensive
income
As at March
31, 2024
(3,669.00) (592.15) - (4,261.15)
(139.50) (20.90) (160.40)
158.38 90.83 - 249.21
500.14 31.39 - 531.53
150.33 - 150.33
139.50 20.90 160.40
5,218.86 (1,129.83) - 4,089.03
983.45 469.82 - 1,453.27
(16.36) 0.10 - (12.31)
(1,129.83) - 6,621.47
3,325.80 2,199.91
  • Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent of deferred tax liabilities available since Group creates deferred tax assets only to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary difference could be utilised.

262 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 59 - Income tax (Contd.)

(H in Lakhs)

Parameter March 31, 2023# March 31, 2023#
As at April
01, 2022 #
Statement of
proft and loss
Other
comprehensive
income
As at
March 31, 2023 #
(I) Components of deferred tax assets (net)
Deferred tax liabilities
Property, Plant and Equipment, investment property
and intangible assets: Impact of diference between
written down value as per books of account and
income tax
(2,426.96) (1,242.04) - (3,669.00)
Lease Liability (139.50) (139.50)
Deferred tax assets
Expenses claimed for taxpurpose onpayment basis 195.12 (36.74) - 158.38
Allowance for doubtful debts and advances 142.99 357.15 - 500.14
Allowance for impairment in the value of non current
investment and share application money
138.33 12.00 - 150.33
Efect of deferred tax on Inventory and other related
items
163.80 (163.90) -
Lease assets 139.50 139.50
MAT Credit entitlement 5,292.47 (73.61) - 5,218.86
Unabsorbed depreciation/carried forward losses 109.47 873.98 - 983.45
Others (15.79) (7.01) (16.36)
Deferred tax credit / (charge) (280.07) - 7,134.30
Net deferred tax assets 3,599.43 3,325.80

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

D Details of unused tax losses and unabsorbed tax depreciation for which deferred tax assets have not been recognised:

Details of unused tax losses and unabsorbed tax depreciation for which deferred tax assets have not been
recognised:
Details of unused tax losses and unabsorbed tax depreciation for which deferred tax assets have not been
recognised:
Details of unused tax losses and unabsorbed tax depreciation for which deferred tax assets have not been
recognised:
(Hin Crores)
Expiry of losses fnancial year wise Business losses Unabsorbed
depreciation
Financial Year 2031-32 2,768.48 -
Financial Year 2030-31 2,416.66 -
Financial Year 2029-30 1,300.38 -
Financial Year 2028-29 190.64 -
Financial Year 2027-28 223.85 -
Indefnite - 1,933.33

Note 60 - Share-based payments

Employee share option plan of the Parent Company

1.1 Details of the employee share option plan of the Parent Company

This ESOP 2019 scheme had been framed pursuant to the Scheme of Amalgamation between the erstwhile Fermenta Biotech Limited (“Transferor Company”) with the DIL Limited (“Transferee Company”) and their respective shareholders. The Transferor Company prior to the Scheme of Amalgamation had implemented the ‘Fermenta Biotech Limited - Employee Stock Option Plan 2019’ and were granted employee stock options to its eligible employees. Further, the number of transferee options issued shall equal to the product of number of transferor options outstanding on effectiveness of Scheme multiplied by the Share exchange ratio (0.398) and each transferee option

Annual Report 2023-24 | 263

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 60 - Share-based payments (Contd.)

shall have an exercise price per equity share equal to transferor option exercise price per equity shares divided by the share exchange ratio (0.398) and fractions rounded off to the next higher whole number. The terms and conditions of ESOP 2019 Scheme of DIL Limited are not less favourable than those of ESOP Scheme of erstwhile Fermenta Biotech Limited. Under the ESOP 2019 Scheme, stock options have been issued to the eligible employees of erstwhile Fermenta Biotech Limited

In accordance with the terms of the plan, as approved by the erstwhile shareholders of Fermenta Biotech Limited at an extra general meeting, executives and senior employees with the Company were granted options to purchase equity shares.

Each employee share option converts into one equity share of the Parent Company on exercise. No amounts are paid or payable by the recipient on receipt of the option. The options carry neither rights to dividends nor voting rights. Options may be exercised at any time from the date of vesting to the date of their expiry.

The number of options granted is calculated in accordance with the performance-based formula and is subject to approval by the remuneration committee. The formula rewards executives and senior employees to the extent of the Parent Company and the individual’s achievement judged against both qualitative and quantitative criteria.

The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:

The following share-based payment arrangements were in existence during the current year:
(Hin Lakhs)
Options series Number Grant date Expiry date Exercise price Fair value at
grant date
Plan 1 (60% of options
granted under ESOP 2019)
1,01,614 25.02.2019, 12.08.2019
and 01.09.2020
25.02.2025, 12.08.2025
and 28.02.2025
83.67 421.71 and
298.16
Plan 1 (20% of options
granted under ESOP 2019)
49,526 25.02.2019, 12.08.2019
and 01.09.2020
25.02.2026, 12.08.2026
and 28.02.2026
83.67 421.71 and
298.16
Plan 1 (20% of options
granted under ESOP 2019)
28,270 25.02.2019, 12.08.2019
and 01.09.2020
25.02.2027, 12.08.2027
and 28.02.2027
83.67 421.71 and
298.16
Plan 2 (100% of options
granted under ESOP 2019)
2,17,410 25.02.2019 25.02.2025 83.67 418.22

Options granted under ESOP 2019 shall vest not before 1 (one) year and not later than maximum Vesting Period of 5 (five) years from the date of grant of such Options. Subject to the minimum vesting period of one year, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee of the Board at its discretion approve for acceleration of Vesting of any or all unvested Options of the Option Grantee.

The above number of options, fair value at grant dates and exercise price were adjusted in accordance with the Share exchange ratio (0.398:1) as per the scheme of amalgamation.

The number of options are after giving effect of the amalgamation and bonus shares issued during the previous year.

1.2 Fair Price of share options granted

The weighted average fair Price of the share options granted during the financial year is Nil (Previous year H298.16). Options were priced using Black-Scholes option pricing model. Where relevant, the expected life used in the model has been calculated based on a weighted average of vests. Expected volatility is based on the historical share price information of similar listed entities.

Inputs into the model Option series Option series Option series Option series
Plan 1 (60% of
options granted
under ESOP 2019)
Plan 1 (20% of
options granted
under ESOP 2019)
Plan 1 (20% of
options granted
under ESOP 2019)
Plan 2 (100% of
options granted
under ESOP 2019)
Grant date share price (H) 298.16 and 298.16 298.16 and 298.16 298.16 and 298.16 418.22
Exercise price (H) 83.67 83.67 83.67 83.67
Expected volatility 69.28% and 65.33% 68.83% and 61.84% 68.08% and 60.02% 69.28%
Option life 4.51 years and 4 years 5.51 years and 5 years 6.51 years and 6 years 4.51 years
Dividend yield 0% and 0.57% 0% and 0.57% 0% and 0.57% 0.00%
Risk-free interest rate 7.14% and 5.22% 7.25% and 5.53% 7.35% and 5.78% 7.14%

264 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 60 - Share-based payments (Contd.)

1.3 Movements in share options during the year

The following reconciles the share options outstanding at the beginning and end of the year:

(H in Lakhs)

(Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars
Balance at beginningofyear
Granted duringtheyear
Forfeited duringtheyear
Bonus options issued duringtheyear
Exercised duringtheyear
Expired duringtheyear
Balance at end ofyear
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
Number of
options
Weighted average
exerciseprice"
3,96,821
83.67
-
-
62,758
-
-
-
9,981
-
-
-
3,24,082
Number of
options
Weighted average
exerciseprice"
Weighted average
exerciseprice"
3,24,082 83.67 83.67
- - -
- - -
- - -
16,804 - -
- - -
3,07,278

The number of options, were adjusted for the Forfeited /cancellation of option for Fulfilment of year end assessment of ESOP vesting conditions.

1.4 Share options outstanding at the end of the year

The share options outstanding at the end of the year had a weighted average exercise price of H83.67 (as at March 31, 2023: H83.67), and a weighted average remaining contractual life of Nil year.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

61. Ratio

(H in Lakhs)

Ratio Numerator Denominator March 31,
2024
1.40
0.46
0.27
(0.10)
3.09
6.02
1.54
4.90
(0.07)
0.04
March 31,
2023 #
% Variance Reason for variance
Current Ratio 24,175.38 17,326.07 1.21 15.70% *
(25,302.34) (20,871.84)
Debt-Equity Ratio 13,227.09 28,886.10 0.69 (33.33%) Improvement due to early
repayment of debts
(21,684.52) (31,531.38)
Debt Service
Coverage Ratio
1,065.57 3,943.88 (0.61) 38.30% Due to improvement in
proftability
3,226.39 (5,258.21)
Return on Equity
Ratio
(3,143.51) 30,208.74 (0.24) (28.57%) Due to improvement in
proftability
(8,160.85) (34,372.43)
Inventory turnover
Ratio
33,566.19 10,876.20 2.42 27.69% Due to increase of inventoy
(34,994.09) (14,480.82)
Trade Receivables
turnover Ratio
33,566.19 5,573.73 5.44 10.66% *
(34,994.09) (6,436.98)
Trade payables
turnover Ratio
8,526.20 5,534.96 2.21 (30.21%) Due to decrease of trade
credit period
(12,189.73) (5,518.73)
Net capital turnover
Ratio
33,566.19 6,849.31 7.90 (37.97%) Due to improvement of net
working capital
(34,994.09) (4,430.50)
Net proft Ratio (2,400.87) 33,566.19 (0.15) (53.33%) Due to improvement in
proftability
(5,313.17) 34,994.09
Return on Capital
employed
1,459.94 40,616.23 (0.00405) 10.88% *
(204.61) 50,460.77
  • Ratio variance below threshold limit defined as per Schedule III

  • Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 265

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 60 - Share-based payments (Contd.)

Note 60 - Share-based payme nts(Contd.)
Current Ratio : Current Assets/ Current Liabilities
Debt – Equity Ratio : Total Debt/Shareholder’s Equity
Debt Service Coverage Ratio : Earnings available for debt service/Debt Service
Earning for Debt Service = Net Proft/(loss) after taxes and before exceptional items + Non-cash
operating expenses like depreciation and other amortizations + Interest + other adjustments like
loss on sale of Fixed assets etc.
Debt service = Interest & Lease Payments + Principal Repayments
Return on Equity (ROE) : Net Profts/(loss) after taxes before exceptional items – Preference Dividend (if any)/Average
Shareholder’s Equity
Inventory Turnover Ratio : Cost of goods sold OR sales/ Average Inventory
Average inventory is (Opening + Closing balance)/2
Trade receivables turnover Ratio : Net Credit Sales/ Avg. Accounts Receivable
Net credit sales consist of gross credit sales minus sales return. Trade receivables includes sundry
debtors and bills receivables
Average trade debtors = (Opening + Closing balance)/2
Trade payables turnover Ratio : Net Credit Purchases/ Average Trade Payables
Net capital turnover Ratio : Net Sales / Working Capital
Net sales shall be calculated as total sales minus sales returns.
Working Capital shall be calculated as Current assets minus Current liabilities.
Net proft Ratio : Net Proft/ Net Sales
Net proft shall be after tax and before exceptional items.
Net sales shall be calculated as total sales minus sales returns.
Return on capital employed (ROCE) : Earning before interest and taxes/Capital Employed
Capital Employed = Tangible Net Worth + Total Debt + Deferred Tax Liability

Note 62 - Commitments:

Note 62 - Commitments:
Particulars
(a) Estimated amount of contracts remaining to be executed on capital account and
notprovided for(Net of advances)
(b)Lease commitments
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
2,677.29
73.57
March 31, 2024
57.17
127.38

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 63 - Contingent liabilities:

(H in Lakhs)

Particulars
Claims against the Group not acknowledged as debts;
Tax matters
Service tax department raised demand ofH22.50 Lakhs consisting of Service Tax ofH7.50
Lakhs and penalty ofH15.00 Lakhs in connection with services rendered post demerger
of the pharmaceutical division. Commissioner of Service Tax Mumbai and CESTAT has
upheld the order of Joint Commissioner of Service Tax. The Group Company has preferred
an appeal to Bombay High Court.
March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
22.50
22.50

266 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 63 - Contingent liabilities: (Contd.)

Particulars

The Deputy Commissioner of sales tax has confirmed the order of the Assistant Commissioner of sales tax Vapi, Gujarat for year 1992-93 and 1993-94 for demand of interest and penalty due to shortfall in tax payment on account of computation of purchase tax setoff. Company has preferred an appeal to sales tax tribunal Ahmedabad, Gujarat and obtained stay against the order/demand of the Assistant Commissioner pending final disposal. The Deputy Commissioner of sales tax has confirmed the order of the Assistant Commissioner of sales tax Vapi, Gujarat for year 1992-93 and 199394 for demand of interest and penalty due to shortfall in tax payment on account of computation of purchase tax setoff. Company has preferred an appeal to sales tax tribunal Ahmedabad, Gujarat and obtained stay against the order/demand of the Assistant Commissioner pending final disposal.

(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
4.63
March 31, 2024
4.63

Note: Future cash outflows in respect of the above are determinable only on receipt of judgements/decisions pending with various authorities/forums and/or final outcome of the matters.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 64 - Details of dues to micro and small enterprises as per Micro, Small and Note 64 - Details of dues to micro and small enterprises as per Micro, Small and Note 64 - Details of dues to micro and small enterprises as per Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Medium Enterprise
Development Act, 2006 (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars March 31, 2024 March 31, 2023 #
(a) i)
Principal amount remaining unpaid to any supplier at the end of the
237.63 280.47
accounting year
ii) Interest due on above - -
The Total of (i) and (ii) 237.63 280.47
(b) The amount of interest paid by the buyer in terms of Section 16 of the Micro, - -
Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006 (27 of 2006) along with the
amounts of the payment made to the supplier beyond the appointed day during
each accounting year
(c) The amount of interest due and payable for the period of delay in making payment 10.12 -
(which have been paid but beyond the appointed day during the year) but without
adding the interest specifed under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
Development Act, 2006
(d) The amount of interest accrued and remaining unpaid at the end of each 12.56 -
accounting year; and
(e) The amount of further interest remaining due and payable even in the succeeding - -
years, until such date when the interest dues above are actually paid to the small
enterprises for the purpose of disallowance as a deductible expenditure under
Section 23 of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006

The information regarding Micro and Small Enterprises has been determined to the extent such parties have been identified on the basis of information available with the Group. This has been relied upon by the auditors.

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 267

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 65- Capitalisation of borrowing costs

During the year ended March 31, 2024, the Group capitalised the following borrowing costs attributable to qualifying assets to the cost of property, plant and equipment / capital work-in-progress (CWIP). Consequently, finance costs disclosed under note 39 are net of amounts capitalised by the Group Company.

Particulars
Finance costs (Includingforex revaluation)
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
97.07
97.07
March 31, 2024
108.74
108.74

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 66 - The Group company (‘Fermenta’) has signed a Binding Term Sheet on January 31, 2022 with Mextech Property Developers LLP (‘Mextech’) and granted development rights to Mextech for construction of residential-cum-commercial buildings in the balance portion of Thane land. In lieu of this the Group would receive residential flats on an area sharing basis aggregating 120,000 square feet RERA carpet area along with amenities. The Group has accordingly received H1,500 lakhs as a deposit from Mextech.

Note 67 - Merger of DVK Investments Private Limited (Holding Company) and Aegean Properties Limited (Wholly owned subsidiary) with Fermenta Biotech Limited

Pursuant to scheme of Merger by Absorption under section 230-232 of the Companies Act, 2013, between the Parent Company, its Holding Company DVK Investments Private Limited {DVK} and wholly owned subsidiary Company Aegean Properties Limited {Agean} (transferor companies) sanctioned by National Company Law Tribunal by virtue of its order dated May 8, 2023 and the certified copies of such approved scheme was submitted with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), Mumbai on May 24,2023, which is considered as the appointed date and effective date of the merger as per the Scheme. The transferor companies have merged into the Parent Company on a going concern basis from the appointed date of the scheme i.e. May 24, 2023.

The arrangement have been accounted in the books of account of the Group in accordance with Ind AS 103 and considering that the transferor companies are ultimately controlled by the same promoters both before and after the business combination, the said transaction is a common control transaction and has been accounted under pooling of interest method.

Pursuant to the Scheme, 1,50,75,318 no. of shares held by DVK Investments Private Limited has been cancelled and equivalent shares have been allotted to the shareholders of DVK Investments Private Limited on June 3, 2023 in the ratio of their holding in DVK Investments Private Limited.

Accordingly, the comparative financial information of the Group for the year ended March 31, 2023 included in these standalone financial statements along with the notes to accounts and disclosure have been adjusted to give effect of the merger of transferor companies with effect from the date when such entities came under common control. Following the common control accounting guidance the financial statements of the following companies have been included in the financial statement of the Group from:”

Aegean - April 1, 2022 - No impact of Aegean Properties Limited ,as it was already consolidated under the current parent company (Fermenta Biotech Limited)

DVK - April 1, 2022

The impact of the merger on the financial statements of the Group is as under: as at April 1, 2022.

(Hin Lakhs) (Hin Lakhs)
Particulars DVK Investments
Private Limited
Total Assets(A) 1,772.10
Total Liability (B) 0.45
Net Assets(A-B) {taken over} 1,771.65
Add: Other reserves{taken over} (1,119.49)
Less : Investment elimination 1,686.65
Capital Reservepersuant to merger (1,034.48)

268 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 67 - Merger of DVK Investments Private Limited (Holding Company) and Aegean Properties Limited (Wholly owned subsidiary) with Fermenta Biotech Limited (Contd.)

The Group company has accounted for the merger as per the pooling of interest method retrospectively for all periods presented as prescribed under Ind AS 103 Business Combinations of entities under common control. The previous period/ year numbers have been accordingly restated to give effect of the merger from the date when such entities came under common control. The impact of the merger on these results is as under:

Particulars
Total Assets
Total Liability
Total Equity
Total Income
Loss before Tax
Loss for theyear
Total comprehensive loss for theyear
(Hin Lakhs)
Year ended March
31, 2023 Restated
63,651.57
32,395.09
31,256.48
35,853.68
(2,282.84)
(5,313.17)
(5,460.65)
Year ended March
31, 2023 Reported
63,580.71
32,392.12
31,188.59
35,763.77
(2,339.68)
(5,355.42)
(5,502.90)

Note 68 - Revenue from Contracts with Customer :

1. Disaggregated Revenue Information

Set out below is the dissaggration of the Group’s revenue from contracts with customers

Set out below is the dissaggration of the Group’s revenue from contracts with customers
Particulars
March 31, 2024
Type ofgoods or services
Sale ofproducts
25,801.64
Sale of services
268.89
Rent and service income from investmentproperties
887.90
Sale of investmentproperties
6,387.82
Other operatingincome
219.94
Total revenue from contract with customers
33,566.19
India
17,051.03
Outside India
16,515.15
Total revenue from contract with customers
33,566.19
Timing of revenue recognition
Goods transferred at apoint in time
25,801.64
Services transferred over time (included in other operatingincome)
7,764.55
Total revenue from contract with customers
33,566.19
Set out below is the dissaggration of the Group’s revenue from contracts with customers
Particulars
March 31, 2024
Type ofgoods or services
Sale ofproducts
25,801.64
Sale of services
268.89
Rent and service income from investmentproperties
887.90
Sale of investmentproperties
6,387.82
Other operatingincome
219.94
Total revenue from contract with customers
33,566.19
India
17,051.03
Outside India
16,515.15
Total revenue from contract with customers
33,566.19
Timing of revenue recognition
Goods transferred at apoint in time
25,801.64
Services transferred over time (included in other operatingincome)
7,764.55
Total revenue from contract with customers
33,566.19
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
28,376.54
230.20
1,525.97
4,772.82
88.56
34,994.09
15,847.65
19,146.44
34,994.09
28,376.54
6,617.55
34,994.09
March 31, 2024
25,801.64
268.89
887.90
6,387.82
219.94
33,566.19
17,051.03
16,515.15
33,566.19
25,801.64
7,764.55
33,566.19

2. Contract balances

Particulars
Trade receivables
Contract assets
Contract liabilities
Deferred revenue
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
4,164.94
321.98
9.53
894.40
March 31, 2024
6,982.51
314.99
30.01
1,846.74

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Annual Report 2023-24 | 269

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 69 - Quarterly returns and statements of current assets for loans taken from Banks and Financial Institutions on the basis of security of current assets are filed by the Group Company with banks and Financial Institutions are in agreement with the books of accounts no such variations found further, HDFC Bank and Yes Bank has accepted the non-compliance of debt covenant and relaxed any penal provisions via email dated March 28, 2024 and March 26, 2024 and accordingly the borrowings are disclosed in the financial statements as non current borrowings for the year ended March 31, 2024. (refer note 24 and 28)

Note 70 - Exceptional item
Particulars
Inventory
Other advance
Goodwill
Total
(Hin Lakhs)
March 31, 2023 #
1,940.54
907.14
-
2,847.68
March 31, 2024
-
-
742.64
742.64

The overall business of animal feed of the Group Company has considerably reduced as compared to the expectation on account of subdued global demands. Basis the earlier expectation of the Group Company of the animal feeds business, the Group Company had kept stock of semi-finished goods to be used for the production of such animal feed. Considering the immediate uncertainty on the recovery of animal feed global demand, as a prudency the Group Company had made provisions against the said inventory and other advances to other parties for the previous year ended March 31, 2023,

During the current year, considering the prolonged subdued global demands, the Group had revisited its projected future cash flows from its subsidiary Fermenta USA LLC. Accordingly an impairment of H742.64 lakhs was recorded against Goodwill created at the time of acqusition of such subsidiary, which has been disclosed as an exceptional item in the year ended March 31, 2024 .

Restated pursuant to merger (Refer Note 67)

Note 71 - Previous year figures have been re-grouped /re-classified wherever necessary.

Note 72 - The President has given his assent to the Code on Social Security, 2020 (“Code”) in September 2020. On November 13, 2020 the Ministry of Labour and Employment released draft rules for the Code. However, the date on which the Code will come into effect has not been notified. The Group will assess the impact once the subject rules are notified and will give appropriate impact to its financial statements in the period in which the Code becomes effective.

Note 73 - Events after the reporting period: The Group has evaluated subsequent events from the date through May 27, 2024, the date at which the financial statements were available to be issued and determined that there are no material items to disclose.

Note 74 - The Group Company has used accounting software for maintaining its books of account which has a feature of recording audit trail (edit log) facility and the same has operated throughout the year for all relevant transactions recorded in the software, except that audit trail feature is not enabled for direct changes to data for users with certain privileged access rights to the accounting software or the underlying database. Further no instance of audit trail feature being tampered with was noted in respect of the accounting software where audit trail has been enabled.

Note 75 - Other Statutory Information

  • (i) The Group does not have any Benami property, where any proceeding has been initiated or pending against the Company for holding any Benami property

  • (ii) The Group does not have any charges or satisfaction which is yet to be registered with ROC beyond the statutory period

  • (iii) The Group has not traded or invested in Crypto currency or Virtual Currency during the financial year

  • (iv) The Group has not revalued its property, plant and equipment (including right-of-use assets) or intangible assets during the year ended 31[st] March,2024.

270 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Corporate Overview Statutory Reports Financial Statements

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2024

Note 76 -The Consolidated financial statements are approved for issue by the Board of Directors of the Parent Company at its meeting held on May 27, 2024.

As per our report of even date

For S R B C & CO LLP

Chartered Accountants ICAI Firm Registration Number: 324982E/E300003

For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

per Poonam Todarwal

Partner Membership No. 136454

Krishna Datla

Executive Vice-Chairman DIN 00003247

Prashant Nagre

Managing Director DIN 09165447

Thane, May 27, 2024

Sumesh Gandhi

Chief Financial Officer Thane, May 27, 2024

Srikant N. Sharma

Company Secretary

Annual Report 2023-24 | 271

FERMENTA BIOTECH LIMITED

Corporate Identification Number (CIN): L99999MH1951PLC008485 Registered Office: A-1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) – 400 610, Maharashtra, India Tel: +91-22-6798 0800/888 • Fax: +91-22-6798 0899

Email : [email protected]Website: www.fermentabiotech.com

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Seventy-second Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) of the Members of Fermenta Biotech Limited (“FBL”/“Company”) will be held on Monday, August 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. ( IST ) through Video Conferencing/Other Audio-Visual Means, to transact the following business:

ORDINARY BUSINESS

  1. To receive, consider and adopt:

  2. (a) the audited Standalone Financial Statements of the Company for the financial year ended March 31, 2024, Reports of the Board of Directors and the Auditors thereon; and

  3. (b) the audited Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company for the financial year ended March 31, 2024, and the Report of the Auditors thereon.

  4. To declare dividend of H1.25 (One Rupee and Twenty Five paisa) per equity share of H5 each (25%) for the financial year ended March 31, 2024.

  5. To appoint a director in place of Mr. Satish Varma (DIN: 00003255), who retires by rotation and, being eligible, offers himself for reappointment.

SPECIAL BUSINESS

  1. To consider, and if thought fit, pass with or without modification, the following resolution as a Special Resolution:

To approve the continuation of Ms. Rajeshwari Datla (DIN: 00046864) as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Directors of the Company after attaining 75 years:

“RESOLVED THAT pursuant to provisions of Regulation 17(1A) and other applicable provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 and other applicable statutory provisions, consent of the members of the Company be and is hereby accorded for continuation of Ms. Rajeshwari Datla (DIN: 00046864) as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Directors of the Company after attaining Seventy Five (75) years of her age on April 1, 2025.”

  1. To consider, and if thought fit, pass with or without modification, the following resolution as an Ordinary Resolution:

Remuneration of Cost Auditor of the Company:

RESOLVED THAT pursuant to provisions of Section 148 and other applicable provisions, if any, of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014 (including any statutory modification(s) or re-enactment thereof for time being in force), the members of the Company hereby approve the payment of remuneration of H2,75,000/- (Rupees Two Lakhs Seventy Five Thousand only) plus taxes as applicable and reimbursement of out of pocket expenses, if any, to M/s Joshi Apte & Associates, Cost Accountants (Firm Registration Number: 00240), [“ Cost Auditor ”] to conduct the cost audit in respect of applicable product(s) manufactured by the Company, for the financial year ending on March 31, 2025.”

  1. To consider, and if thought fit, pass with or without modification, the following resolution as an Ordinary Resolution:

Approval for Material Related Party Transactions:

“RESOLVED THAT pursuant to the provisions of Section 188 and other applicable provisions, if any, of the Companies Act, 2013 (“Act”) read with the applicable rules issued thereunder (including any statutory modification(s) or re-enactment thereof), Regulation 2(1)(ZC), Regulation 23(4) and other applicable regulations of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (“Listing Regulations”) read with Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”) Master Circular SEBI/HO/CFD/PoD2/CIR/P/2023/120 dated July 11, 2023 and other relevant circulars (“SEBI Circulars”) , the Company’s Related Party Transactions Policy and based on recommendation of the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors, the consent of the members

272 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Notice

of the Company be and is hereby accorded to enter into contract(s)/ arrangement(s) / transaction(s) at arm’s length basis and in the ordinary course of business, with Fermenta USA LLC, a step-down subsidiary of the Company, for an aggregate amount not exceeding the H25,00,00,000 (Rupees Twenty-Five Crores only) and shall be valid from this AGM till the date of the next AGM for a period not exceeding fifteen months, and the Board of Directors is hereby authorized to decide the terms and conditions of the above contracts as may be considered appropriate in the interest of the Company;

RESOLVED FURTHER THAT the Board (includes its committee) be and is hereby authorized to execute relevant deeds and documents and to do all such acts, deeds, and things, as it may deem necessary to give effect to this resolution and to do all such acts ,deeds and things as may be required to implement the foregoing resolution.

RESOLVED FURTHER THAT pursuant to the authority granted by the members under this resolution, all and any action of the Board shall be deemed to be approved and confirmed by the members, and no further approval shall be required from the members thereof. “

By Order of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

Registered Office:

A-1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (W) – 400 610, Maharashtra, India

Srikant N. Sharma

Company Secretary & Vice President (Legal) Membership No: FCS – 3617 Date: June 20, 2024 Place: Thane

Annual Report 2023-24 | 273

Annexure to Notice

Explanatory Statement pursuant to Section 102 of the Companies Act, 2013 (‘Act’).

Item No. 4

Ms. Rajeshwari Datla (DIN: 00046864) is on the Board of Directors of the Company since July 21, 2005. She is a Non-Executive Director on the Board and also a member of the Audit Committee and Nomination and Remuneration Committee of the Company.

On April 1, 2025, Ms. Rajeshwari Datla would attain seventy-five (75) years of her age. In terms of Regulation 17(1A) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 ("SEBI Listing Regulations"), continuation of a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Directors after attaining age of seventy-five years requires approval of the members by way of a special resolution.

Ms. Datla is a Bachelor of Science and has around five decades of rich experience in management and operations in the pharmaceutical industry. With her invaluable contribution in the strategic and decision-making process, she has been instrumental in Company’s operations.

In view of the above, the Board, on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, recommends this resolution for approval of the members of the Company, as a Special Resolution.

Mr. Krishna Datla (Son), Ms. Anupama Datla Desai (Daughter) and Ms. Preeti Thakkar (Daughter) are relatives of Ms. Rajeshwari Datla. Except the said relationship, none of the Directors and the Key Managerial Personnel (KMPs) of the Company including their relatives is concerned or interested in the above resolution.

Item No. 5

Section 148 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014 (as amended from time to time) provides that the remuneration of the Cost Auditor as recommended by the Audit Committee shall be considered and approved by the Board of Directors of the Company, and thereafter ratified by the members of the Company.

Based on the recommendation of the Audit Committee, the Board of Directors has approved the appointment of M/s Joshi Apte & Associates, Cost Accountants [Firm Registration Number–00240], as Cost Auditors of the Company and their remuneration of H2,75,000 (Rupees Two Lakhs Seventy-Five Thousand only) for the financial year 2024-25 plus taxes as applicable. All out of pocket expenses in relation to the said Cost Audit shall be reimbursed to the Cost Auditor as per actuals. The Board of Directors recommends this resolution for approval of the members of the Company, as an Ordinary Resolution.

None of the Directors and the Key Managerial Personnel of the Company, including their relatives, is in any way interested or concerned in this resolution.

Item No. 6

As per the provisions of Section 188 of the Companies Act, 2013 (“Act”), transactions entered with related parties which are on an arm’s length basis and in the ordinary course of business, are exempted from the requirement of obtaining prior approval of members.

Pursuant to the provisions of Regulation 2(1)(ZC), Regulation 23 (4) and other applicable regulations of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (“Listing Regulations”), all material Related Party Transactions shall require prior approval of the members through resolution and no related party shall vote to approve such resolution. For this purpose, a transaction with a related party shall be considered material, in accordance with the provision specified in the Related Party Transaction Policy of the Company, i.e., transaction(s) to be entered into individually or taken together with previous transactions during a financial year, exceed H1,000 crores or 10% of the annual consolidated turnover of the Company as per the last audited financial statements of the Company, whichever is lower.

SEBI, vide its Master Circular no. SEBI/HO/CFD/PoD2/CIR/P/2023/120 dated July 11, 2023, stipulated that the members’ approval of omnibus related party transactions approved in an annual general meeting shall be valid till the date of the next annual general meeting for a period not exceeding fifteen months.

The Company has a wholly owned subsidiary named Fermenta Biotech USA LLC incorporated in state of Delaware in United States of America (“FBU”). FBU holds 52% membership interest in Fermenta USA LLC (“FUSA”), a limited liability company based in Texas, USA. Accordingly, FUSA is a step-down subsidiary of the Company. FUSA is, inter alia , in the domain of human and animal nutrition. The Company sells its products to FUSA for sale and distribution in the foreign markets.

274 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Notice

Details of Material Related Party Transactions are as follows:

Sr. Particulars Details
1 Name of the Related Party Fermenta USA LLC (“FUSA”), a limited liabilitycompanybased in Texas, USA.
2 Nature of Relationship with the Company FUSA is a step-down subsidiary of the Company in which Fermenta Biotech USA
LLC (Company’s whollyowned subsidiary) holds 52% membershipinterest.
3 Type, material terms and particulars of the
proposed transaction
(a) Sale of Company’s products; and
(b) Commissionpayable on sales of Company’sproducts to FUSA.
4 Tenure of the proposed transaction From the date of this AGM till the date of the next AGM for a period not exceeding
ffteen months.
5 Value of the proposed Transaction (a) Up toH23 crores for sale of Company’s products
(b) UptoH2 crore for commission on sales to FUSA.
6 Percentage
of
the
Company's
annual
consolidated turnover for the immediately
preceding fnancial year that is represented by
the value of theproposed transaction
~ 10%
7 (a) Details of the source of funds in connection
with theproposed transaction
Not applicable
(b) where any fnancial indebtedness is incurred
to make or give loans, inter-corporate
deposits, advances or investments
-
nature of indebtedness;
-
cost of funds; and
-
tenure.
Not applicable
(c) Applicable terms, including covenants,
tenure, interest rate, repayment schedule,
whether secured (nature of security) or
unsecured
Not applicable
(d) Purpose for which funds will be utilized Not applicable
8 Justifcation as to why the RPT is in the interest
of the Company
FUSA will help the Company with greater operational capabilities to enhance
Company’s footprint in the USA market and other markets and to develop larger
customer base. Among other benefts, the sale of Company’s products through
FUSA helps the Company to cater foreign markets, especially North American
and Latin American markets, by supplying the products in competitive timelines
i.e. reduction in the transport time. The transactions with FUSA are directly linked
with the Company’s sales and profts and therefore are crucial for the Company’s
business. The Company: (i) receives proceeds from sale of its products; and (ii) pays
commission to FUSA for distribution of itsproducts.
9 Details about valuation, arm’s length and
ordinary course of business
Valuation is not applicable. The sale of Company’s products and payment of
commission to FUSA is in the ordinary course of business and on an arm’s length
basis.
10 Valuation and other external report, if any,
relied upon by the listed entity in relation to the
proposed transaction
Not applicable
11 Any other information relevant or important for
the members to take an informed decision
Nil

Annual Report 2023-24 | 275

Mr. Satish Varma, Executive Director, Mr. Prashant Nagre, Managing Director, and Mr. Sumesh Gandhi, Chief Financial Officer are managers in FUSA and their interest or concern or that of their relatives, is limited to the extent of their directorship or managership in FUSA and the Company.

Except as mentioned, none of the Directors or Key Managerial Personnel and their relatives, are concerned or interested in this Resolution.

The Members may note that as per the provisions of the Listing Regulations, all related parties (whether such related party is a party to the above-mentioned transaction or not), shall not vote to approve this resolution. The Board of Directors recommends this resolution for approval of the Members as Ordinary Resolution.

By Order of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

Registered Office:

A-1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (W) – 400 610, Maharashtra, India

Srikant N. Sharma

Company Secretary & Vice President (Legal) Membership No: FCS – 3617 Date: June 20, 2024 Place: Thane

Brief profile of directors being as required under sub-regulation (3) of Regulation 36 of the Listing Regulations and Secretarial Standard on General Meetings as specified by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (“Secretarial Standard”).

Name of the Director Mr. Satish Varma
Executive Director
Ms. Rajeshwari Datla
Non–Executive Director
Age 54 years 74 years
Date of frst appointment on the
Board
July 01, 2003 July 21, 2005
Qualifcations Computer Science Bachelor of Science
Experience
and
Area
of
specialization
Over 29 years of experience.
Mr. Varma has extensive and diverse operational,
management and legal experiences across the full
scope of the FBL enterprise and was instrumental in
the Solvay demerger in 2000 as well as the Crocin
brand sale in 1996; events that have shaped the
current strategic platform of the Company.
He took direct operational responsibility of the
Vitamin D3 business in 1998 and has led its growth.
Over 43 years of experience.
Ms. Datla has around fve decades of rich
experience in management and operations
in the pharmaceutical industry.
With her invaluable contribution in the
strategic and decision-making process,
she has been instrumental in Company’s
operations.
Number of meetings of the Board
of the Company attended during
FY 2023- 24
4 6
Directorship
held
in
other
companies

Fermenta Biotech (UK) Limited

Fermenta USA LLC (Manager)

Fermenta Biotech USA LLC (Manager)

Dupen Laboratories Private Limited.

Lacto Cosmetics (Vapi) Private Limited

276 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Notice

Name of the Director Mr. Satish Varma
Executive Director
Ms. Rajeshwari Datla
Non–Executive Director
Chairmanships/ Memberships of
Committee of other Company’s
Boards (as on March 31, 2024)
Nil Nil
Terms
and
conditions
of
appointment
along
with
remuneration proposed to be paid
and Remuneration last drawn
N.A. N.A.
Shareholding of Director (FV of
H5/- each) (as on March 31, 2024)
34,53,325 5,95,818
Relationship with other Directors,
Manager and other Key Managerial
Personnel of the Company
Nil Relative of Mr. Krishna Datla (Executive Vice
Chairman) and Ms. Anupama Datla Desai
(Executive Director)

Notes:

1. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (“MCA”) , vide its General Circular Nos. 14/2020 dated April 8, 2020, 17/2020 dated April 13, 2020, No.20/2020 dated May 5, 2020, read with other relevant circulars including and General Circular No. 09/2023 dated September 25, 2023 (“MCA Circulars”), and SEBI vide its Master circular SEBI/HO/CFD/PoD2/CIR/P/2023/120 dated July 11, 2023 read with SEBI Circular No. SEBI/HO/CFD/CFD-PoD2/P/CIR/2023/167 dated October 07, 2023 and other applicable circulars, (“SEBI Circulars”), permitted holding of the Annual General Meeting (“AGM” ) through Video Conferencing or Other Audio Visual Means (“VC/OAVM”) , without the physical presence of the members at a common venue. Accordingly in compliance with the provisions of Section 101 and other applicable provisions of Companies Act, 2013 (“Act”), SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (“Listing Regulations”), MCA Circulars and SEBI Circulars, the Company has issued this notice to convene the 72[nd] AGM through VC/OAVM. The venue of the AGM shall be deemed to be A-1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwade, Thane (West) - 400 610, Maharashtra.

2. Members attending the meeting through VC/OAVM shall be counted for the purposes of reckoning the quorum under Section 103 of the Act read with MCA Circulars and any other applicable law.

3. The Board of Directors considered and decided to include the Special Business i.e. 4[th] , 5[th] and 6[th] items in the notice to the AGM in accordance with MCA Circulars. The relevant Explanatory Statement pursuant to Section 102 of the Act with respect to the special business items set out in the Notice is annexed.

4. The profile of the Director recommended for reappointment at the AGM under item no. 3 and for continuation of directorship at the AGM under item no. 4 of the AGM Notice (“Notice”), as required by Listing Regulations and Secretarial Standard, is furnished herewith alongwith the Notice of 72[nd] AGM of the Company. The necessary statutory consent(s) and declaration(s) have been received by the Company from the director(s).

5. Since this AGM is being held through VC/OAVM, physical attendance of members has been dispensed with, pursuant to MCA Circulars and SEBI Circulars. The facility to appoint a proxy to attend and/or cast vote for the member is not available for this AGM. The proxy form, attendance slip and route map are not annexed to this Notice.

6. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 112 and 113 of the Act read with the MCA Circulars, corporate/entity members are entitled to attend and participate in the AGM through VC/OAVM and cast their votes through electronic voting (“e-Voting”) . Corporate/entity members are required to send a certified copy of its board resolution or governing body resolution or duly executed authority letter/ power of attorney (collectively referred as “Authorization letter" ) in .pdf or .jpg format, authorizing its representative to attend the AGM through VC/OAVM on its behalf and to vote through remote e-Voting or e-Voting. The said Authorization letter shall be sent to the Scrutinizer appointed by the Board of Directors of the Company viz. Mr. V. N. Deodhar (Membership No. FCS 1880), Proprietor of V. N. Deodhar & Co., Practising Company Secretaries, by email from their registered email address to [email protected] with a copy marked to the Company at [email protected].

Annual Report 2023-24 | 277

7. Dividend related information:

  • A. Updation of members’ details: The format of the Register of Members prescribed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs under the Act requires the Company/ Registrar & Transfer Agents (“R&T Agent”/“LIIPL”) to record additional details of members, including their PAN details, email address, bank details for payment of dividend for the said updation. Members who have not shared the said information are requested to furnish the above details to the Company/ R&T Agent i.e. in case of shares held in physical mode or to their Depository Participant(s) (“DP”) in case of shares held in Dematerialisation (“Demat”) mode.

  • B. Members are hereby informed that pursuant to Sections 124 and 125 of the Act and Investor Education and Protection Fund (Accounting, Audit, Transfer and Refund) Rules, 2016, (IEPF Rules), dividend which is remaining unpaid / unclaimed by Members for a period of seven consecutive years and corresponding shares shall be transferred to Investor Education and Protection Fund (“IEPF”). During FY 2023-24, unclaimed final equity dividend for the financial year 2015-16 i.e. H75,921/- been transferred to IEPF. Correspondingly, 5,104 shares have also been transferred to IEPF.

The details of shares (including FY 2015-16) already transferred to IEPF are available on Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/transfer-of-shares-to-iepf. php. Members whose dividend(s) and/ or shares have been transferred to IEPF can now claim their dividend(s) and/or shares from the IEPF Authority by following the ‘Procedure to claim Refund’ as detailed on the website of IEPF Authority at https://www.iepf.gov.in/IEPF/refund. html

The details of Members whose dividends are lying unpaid/ unclaimed with the Company as on March 31, 2024, are available on the Company’s website at https:// fermentabiotech.com/dividends-bonus-split-buyback. php. The due dates for transfer of unclaimed/unpaid dividends of the financial year 2016-17 and thereafter are as available at https://fermentabiotech.com/ dividendsbonus-split-buyback.php.

All shares in respect of which equity dividend for FY 2016-17 has remained unpaid or unclaimed for seven consecutive years from the date it became due for payment shall be transferred by the company to IEPF by November 04, 2024 along with the unpaid or unclaimed dividend thereon from final equity dividend for financial year 2016-17. The Company sends individual intimation letters to concerned Members along with advertisement in the newspapers seeking action from the concerned Members. The details of such Members along with their unpaid/unclaimed

dividends and corresponding shares due for transfer to IEPF by November 04, 2024 will be made available on the website of the Company i.e. https://fermentabiotech. com/dividends-bonus-split-buyback.php. Members are requested to claim their unencashed final dividend for the financial year 2016-17 and dividends declared thereafter, if any, by writing a letter to the Company or R&T Agent on or before Monday, September 30, 2024.

A. Deduction of tax at source on Final Dividend payout:

Dividend of H1.25 per equity share of H5 each, if approved, will be paid to those members / beneficial owners whose names appear in the Register of Members as on Record Date, Tuesday, August 06, 2024 by electronic transfer to those members who have furnished bank account details to the Company/ R&T Agent. Members who have not registered their Electronic Clearing Service (ECS) are requested to register the same with the R&T at the earliest. The said Dividend, if approved at the AGM, will be paid to the members on or before Thursday, August 22, 2024. As per SEBI master circular SEBI/HO/MIRSD/ POD-1/P/CIR/2024/37 dated May 07, 2024 the physical security holder(s) whose folio(s) do not have PAN, Choice of Nomination, Contact Details, Bank Account Details and Specimen Signature updated, shall be eligible for any payment of dividend in respect of such folios, only through electronic mode with effect from April 01, 2024. All Members are requested to update their required details. In the event the Company is unable to pay the dividend to any member directly in their registered bank accounts through ECS or any other electronic means, subject to specific mandate otherwise issued by SEBI, the Company shall dispatch the demand draft to such member(s), at the earliest.

In accordance with the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961 (for the purpose of note no. 7, hereinafter referred to as ‘the Act’) as amended by and read with the provisions of the Finance Act, 2020, with effect from April 01, 2020, dividend declared and paid by the Company is taxable in the hands of the members. The Company shall, therefore, be required to deduct tax at source (“TDS”) from dividend paid to the members at the applicable rates.

The TDS rate may vary depending on the residential status of the shareholder and the documents submitted to the Company in accordance with the provisions of the Act. Please note that since the dividend shall be approved in the forthcoming AGM, it will be taxable to the shareholder in Financial Year 2024-25. Thus, all the details and declarations furnished should pertain to FY 2024-25.

The TDS provisions for various categories of members along with required documents are provided below:

278 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

Notice

(i) For Resident Members:

For Resident Members:
Category of Shareholder Tax Deduction
Rate
Tax Deduction Rate
Exemption Applicability and Documents required
Any resident shareholder 10% Please update the PAN, if not already done, with depositories (in case
of shares held in demat mode) and with the Company’s Registrar and
Transfer Agents – Link Intime India Private Limited (in case of shares
held in physical mode).
Deduction of taxes shall not be applicable in the following cases –

If dividend income to a resident Individual shareholder during
FY 2024-25 does not exceedH5,000/-,

If shareholder is exempted from TDS provisions through any
circular or notifcation and provides an attested copy of the PAN
along with the documentary evidence in relation to the same.
Submission of Form 15G/ Form 15H Nil Eligible Shareholder shall provide Form 15G (applicable to any
person other than a Company or a Firm) / Form 15H (applicable to an
Individual above the age of 60 years) - provided that all the prescribed
eligibility conditions are met.
Order under Section 197 of the Act Rate provided in
the order
Lower / NIL withholding tax certifcate obtained from Income Tax
authorities.
Insurance Companies: Public &
Other Insurance Companies
Nil Self-declaration that it has full benefcial interest with respect to shares
owned, along with self-attested copy of PAN card and self-attested
copy of registration certifcate.
Corporation established by or under
a Central Act which is, under any law
for the time being in force, exempt
from income- tax on its income
Nil A self-declaration that dividend receivable by them is exempt from tax
under Section 196 or other relevant provisions of the Income-tax Act,
1961; and Self-attested copies of documents in support of the claim.
New Pension System Trust Nil Documentary evidence that the Trust is established in India and is
the benefcial owner of the share/shares held in the Company; and its
income is exempt under Section 10(44) of the Act and being regulated
by the provisions of the Indian Trusts Act, 1882; and it is submitting self-
attested copy of the PAN card and self-attested copy of the registration
certifcate, as applicable.
Mutual Funds Nil Documentary evidence that the person is covered under Section
196 of the Act and a self- declaration that they are governed by the
provisions of Section 10(23D) of the Act along with self-attested copy
of registration certifcate and self-attested copy of PAN.
Alternative Investment fund Nil Documentary evidence that the person is covered by Notifcation
No. 51/2015 dated 25 June 2015 and a declaration that its income is
exempt under Section 10(23FBA) of the Act, and they are established
as Category I or Category II AIF under the SEBI regulations. Self-attested
copy of registration certifcate and self-attested copy of PAN should be
provided.
Other resident shareholder without
PAN/Invalid PAN
20% -

Please note that:

  • a) A valid Permanent Account Number (“PAN”) will be mandatorily required. If, as statutorily required, any PAN is found to have not been linked with Aadhar number, then such PAN will be deemed invalid, and TDS would be deducted at higher rates under Section 206AA of the Act. We request you to inform us well in advance, if you have not linked your Aadhar with PAN as provided in Section 139AA (2) read with Rule 114AAA. The Company reserves its right to recover any demand raised subsequently on the

Annual Report 2023-24 | 279

Company for not informing the Company or providing incorrect information about the applicability of Section 206AA in your case.

  • b) Where the PAN is either not available or is invalid, tax shall be deducted at the rate prescribed as per Section 206AA of the Act or 20%, whichever is higher.

  • c) Members holding shares under multiple accounts under different status / category with a single PAN, may note that, higher of the tax as applicable to the status in which shares held under a PAN will be considered on their entire holding in different accounts.

  • (ii) For Non-Resident Members:

Category
of
Shareholder
Tax Deduction Rate Exemption Applicability and Documents required
Non-resident members 20% (plus applicable
surcharge and cess)
Non-resident members may opt for tax rate under the Tax Treaty. The Tax Treaty
rate shall be applied for tax deduction at source on submission of following
documents to the company:
(i)
Self-attested copy of PAN card, if any, allotted by the Indian income tax
authorities.
(ii) Self-attested copy of Tax Residency Certifcate (“TRC”) covering the
fnancial year 2024-25 and obtained from the tax authorities of the
country of which the shareholder is resident.
(iii) Self-declaration in Form 10F (refer format), if all the details required in this
form are not mentioned in the TRC.
(iv) Self-declaration (refer format) by the non-resident shareholder of
meeting treaty eligibility requirement and satisfying benefcial ownership
requirement (non-resident having Permanent Establishment in India
would need to comply with provisions of Section 206AB of the Act).
(v) In the case of Foreign Institutional Investors and Foreign Portfolio
Investors, self- attested copy of SEBI registration certifcate.
(vi) In case of shareholder being tax resident of Singapore, please furnish
the letter issued by the competent authority or any other evidence
demonstrating the non-applicability of Article 24 - Limitation of Relief
under India-Singapore Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA).
TDS shall be recovered at 20% (plus applicable surcharge and cess) if any of
the above-mentioned documents are not provided or if any document is not
in order.
The Company is not obligated to apply the Tax Treaty rates at the time of tax
deduction/withholding on dividend amounts. Application of Tax Treaty rate
shall depend upon the completeness of the documents submitted by the
non-resident shareholder and are in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
Non-resident members
Submitting Order under
Section 195(3) /197 of
the Act
20% (plus applicable
surcharge and cess)
Rate provided in the
Order
Lower/NIL withholding tax certifcate obtained from Income Tax authorities.

Note:

Members holding shares under multiple accounts under different status / category and single PAN, may note that, higher of the tax as applicable to the status in which shares held under a PAN will be considered on their entire holding in different accounts.

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To summarise, dividend will be paid after deducting the tax at source as under:

  • NIL for resident members receiving dividend up to H5,000 or in case Form 15G / Form 15H (as applicable) along with self- attested copy of the PAN card is submitted.

  • 10% for other resident members in case copy of PAN card are provided/available.

  • 20% for resident members if copy of PAN card is not provided / not available.

  • Tax will be assessed on the basis of documents submitted by the non-resident members.

  • 20% plus applicable surcharge and cess for nonresident members in case the relevant documents are not submitted.

  • Lower/ NIL TDS on submission of self-attested copy of the valid certificate issued under Section 197 of the Act.

Aforesaid rates will be subject to applicability of Section 206AB of the Act.

In terms of Rule 37BA of Income Tax Rules 1962, if dividend income on which tax has been deducted at source is assessable in the hands of a person other than the deductee, then such deductee should file declaration with Company in the manner prescribed by the Rules.

In case tax on dividend is deducted at a higher rate in the absence of receipt or defect in any of the aforementioned details / documents, shareholders will be able to claim refund of the excess tax deducted by filing their income tax return. No claim shall lie against the Company for such taxes deducted.

(iii) For all Members:

Forms 15G/15H/10F for tax exemption can be downloaded from the website of Link Intime India Private Limited (“LIIPL”) . The URL for the same is https://www.linkintime. co.in/client downloads.html - On this page select the General tab. All the forms are available under the head “Form 15G/15H/10F.”

The aforementioned documents (duly completed and signed) are required to be uploaded on the URL https:// web.linkintime.co.in/formsreg/submission-of-form-15g15h.html On this page the user shall be prompted to select / share the following information to register their request:

  1. Select the company (Dropdown)

  2. Folio / DP-Client ID

  3. PAN

  4. Financial year (Dropdown)

  5. Form selection

  6. Document attachment – 1 (PAN)

  7. Document attachment – 2 (Forms)

  8. Document attachment – 3 (Any other supporting document).

  9. (iv) Section 206AB of the Act

TDS will be deducted @ 20% i.e., at twice the applicable rate on the amount of dividend payable where the resident members:

  • have not furnished valid PAN; or

  • are considered to be ‘Specified Person ‘under Section 206AB of the Income Tax Act, 1961 i.e., a resident shareholder who has:

  • (a) not filed return of income for the assessment year relevant to the previous years immediately prior to the previous year in which tax is required to be deducted, for which the time limit of filing of return of income under Section 139(1) of the Income- tax Act, 1961 has expired; and

  • (b) been subjected to tax deduction / collection at source aggregating to H50,000/- or more in the aforesaid previous year.

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has prescribed the functionality for determining whether a person fulfils the conditions of being a ‘Specified Person’ or not. Accordingly, the Company will verify from the above functionality provided by CBDT whether any Shareholder of the Company qualifies as a ‘Specified Person’ prior to applying the relevant TDS rates.

  • (v) Other instructions:

Please note that duly completed and signed documents need to be submitted on or before Thursday, August 01, 2024 in order to enable the Company to determine and deduct appropriate TDS / Withholding Tax. Incomplete and/ or unsigned forms and declarations will not be considered by the Company. No communication on the tax determination/ deduction shall be considered after Thursday, August 01, 2024 (5:00 p.m. IST).

The Company will arrange to email a soft copy of TDS certificate to member’s registered email ID, post completion of all dividend related activities.

Members may note that in case the tax on said dividend is deducted at a higher rate in absence of receipt of the aforementioned details/documents from them, option is available to file the return of income as per the Act and claim an appropriate refund, if eligible. No claim shall, however, lie against the Company for such deduction of TDS.

All communications/queries in this respect should be addressed to LIIPL at its email address FBLdivtax@ linkintime.co.in. Alternatively, you may contact the Company at [email protected].

Annual Report 2023-24 | 281

Members shall also be able to see the credit of TDS in Form 26AS, which can be downloaded from their e-filing account at https://incometaxindiaefling.gov.in.

Further, members who have not registered their email address are requested to write to LIIPL or to the company to register the same.

Members are further requested to complete necessary formalities with regard to their Bank accounts attached to their Dematerialization accounts for enabling the Company to make timely credit of dividend to their respective bank account.

Disclaimer: (a) In the event of any income tax demand (including interest, penalty, etc.) arising from any misrepresentation, inaccuracy or omission of information provided by the member, the member will be responsible to indemnify the Company and also, provide the Company with all information/ documents and co-operation in such tax proceedings. (b) This Communication is not exhaustive and does not purport to be a complete analysis or listing of all potential tax consequences in the matter of dividend payment. Members should consult their tax advisors for requisite action to be taken by them.

Members are requested to intimate changes, if any, including their name, postal address, e-mail address, telephone/mobile numbers, PAN, specimen signature, nomination, power of attorney registration, Bank Mandate details, IFS code and other services: (i) to their Depository Participant (“DP”) in case the shares are held in electronic form and (ii) to LIIPL in case the shares are held in physical form, in the prescribed form i.e. ISR-1- Request for registering PAN, KYC details or changes / updation thereof; (ii) ISR-2- Confirmation of signature of a member by the Banker; (iii) ISR-3- Declaration Form for Opting-out of Nomination by holders of physical securities in Listed Companies; (iv) ISR-4- Request for issue of Duplicate Certificate and other Service Requests (for shares held in physical form)

Pursuant to the SEBI Circular No. SEBI/HO/MIRSD/MIRSDPoD-1/P/CIR/2023/37 dated March 16, 2023 prescribes (i) mandatory furnishing of PAN, KYC details and Nomination by holders of physical securities; (ii) Freezing of folios** without valid PAN, KYC details and Nomination; and (iii) Compulsory linking of PAN and Aadhaar by all holders of physical securities

**Details of the frozen folios of the company will be referred to the administering authority under the Benami Transactions (Prohibitions) Act, 1988 and/or Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, if they continue to remain frozen as on December 31, 2025.

The members of the company who are holding shares in physical form are hereby notified to comply with the above circular vis-à-vis about their folio which is incomplete as per the above requirement, if applicable.

8. Documents for inspection:

  • a) The Register of Directors and Key Managerial Personnel and their shareholding maintained under Section 170 of the Act, the Register of Contracts or Arrangements in which the directors are interested, maintained under Section 189 of the Act, and the relevant documents referred to in the Notice will be available electronically for inspection by the members during the AGM at https:// fermentabiotech.com/annual-report.php.

  • b) All documents referred to in the Notice and the statement pursuant to Section 102 of the Act shall also be available electronically for inspection without any fee by members from the date of circulation of this Notice up to the date of AGM. Members seeking to inspect such documents can send an email to [email protected].

9. a) In order to improve convenience, ease and safety of transactions and in view of SEBI notification No. SEBI/ LAD-NRO/GN/2018/24 dated June 8, 2018 and Regulation 40 of Listing Regulations which mandate that request for effecting the transfer, transmission and transposition of listed securities shall not be processed unless the securities are held in dematerialised form, effective April 01, 2019. Members are, therefore, advised to dematerialise their equity shares currently held in physical form, by contacting their DP(s). Shareholders are requested to consolidate multiple folios maintained by the company under the same PAN.

  • b) Members can avail the nomination facility by filing Form SH-13 (in duplicate) prescribed under Section 72 of the Act and Rule 19 of the Companies (Share Capital and Debenture) Rules, 2014 with the Company or with its R&T Agent (in case of physical shares) and to member’s Depository Participant (in case of demat shares). The member can cancel or make variation in the Nomination by filing form SH-14. The above forms are available at the R&T Agent’s website or will be made available on request in writing to the R&T Agent or to the Company.

10. In view of the MCA Circulars, the 72[nd] Annual Report of the Company along with the Notice of the AGM, e-Voting, remote e-Voting procedure is being sent only by e-mail, to all the Members whose e-mail addresses are registered with the Company / Depository Participant(s)/ R&T Agent for communication purposes.

To support the ‘Green Initiative’, Members who have not registered their e-mail addresses are requested to register the same with the Company or with the R&T Agent at the earliest.

11. The Annual Report 2023-24 including the Notice calling this AGM shall be sent to those members who will be holding shares as on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 as per the Register of Members and Register of Beneficial Owners of the Company. The persons who are members of the Company as on Tuesday, August 06, 2024 (“Cut-Off Date”) as per the register of members / register of beneficial owners shall be eligible to attend and/

282 | Fermenta Biotech Limited

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or do e-Voting. In case a person becomes a member of the Company after, Tuesday, July 16, 2024 and is a member as on the Cut-Off Date, such person may download the above from - https://fermentabiotech.com/annual report.php or request the Company at [email protected] for obtaining a copy of the Annual Report 2023-24. For remote e-Voting or attending the AGM through InstaMeet, such a member may obtain sequence number/ event number by sending an email to LIIPL at [email protected] or requesting to the Company at [email protected], by mentioning his/ her Folio No./ DP ID and Client ID.

12. Members seeking any information or clarification on the Annual Report are requested to send written queries to the Company Secretary at the Registered Office of the Company at least one week before the date of the 72[nd] AGM, to make the information available at the AGM.

13. Electronic Voting:

  • i. In compliance with the provisions of Section 108 of the Act and the Rules framed thereunder read with Regulation 44 of Listing Regulations read with Master Circular SEBI/ HO/CFD/PoD2/CIR/P/2023/120 dated July 11, 2023, the Company is pleased to provide the facility of remote e-Voting or e-Voting, through LIIPL i.e. Link Intime India Private Limited to exercise votes on the items of business given in this Notice, to members holding shares as on CutOff Date i.e. Tuesday, August 06, 2024 fixed for determining the members who shall be eligible to attend the AGM, to ascertain voting rights of such members entitled to participate in the remote e-Voting process or voting at the AGM electronically i.e. e-Voting, and to receive the dividend, if approved, as set out in the AGM Notice. The voting rights of members shall be in proportion to their shares of the paid-up equity share capital of the Company as on the Cut-Off Date. Any person who is not a member of the Company as on the Cut-Off Date should treat this Notice for information purposes only.

ii. The remote e-Voting period commences on Friday, August 9, 2024 (9:00 am IST) and ends on Sunday, August 11, 2024 (5:00 pm IST) . During this period, members of the Company, holding shares either in physical form or in dematerialised form, as on Cut-Off Date may cast their vote through remote e-Voting facility. The remote e-Voting module shall be disabled at 5:00 pm IST on Sunday, August 11, 2024 by LIIPL for voting. Once the vote on a resolution is cast by the member, the same shall not be allowed to change subsequently. A member may participate in the AGM even after exercising his/her right to vote through remote e-Voting, however, his/her voting at the AGM shall not be considered. Alternatively, a member may cast his/her vote through the e-Voting facility provided by the Company during the AGM. In the case of joint holders attending the AGM, only such joint holder who is higher in the order of names will be entitled to vote at the AGM.

  • iii. In case the members have any queries or issues regarding e-Voting, they may refer the Frequently Asked Questions (“FAQs”) and InstaVote e-Voting manual available a https:// instavote.linkintime.co.in, under Help Section or send an email to [email protected] or contact on: Tel: 022 – 4918 6000.

  • iv. Mr. V. N. Deodhar (Membership No. FCS-1880), Proprietor of V. N. Deodhar & Co., Practising Company Secretaries has been appointed as the Scrutiniser to scrutinise the e-Voting, remote e-Voting process and ballot forms as referred to notes to this AGM notice in a fair and transparent manner.

  • v. The Scrutiniser shall, immediately after the conclusion of voting at the AGM, unblock the votes cast through remote e-Voting and the e-Voting on the date of the AGM, in the presence of at least two witnesses not in the employment of the Company and make, not later than 2 (two) working days of conclusion of the AGM, a consolidated Scrutiniser’s Report of the votes cast in favour or against, if any, to the Chairman or a person authorised by him in writing who shall countersign the same.

  • vi. The results declared along with the Scrutiniser’s Report shall be placed on the Company’s website at https:// fermentabiotech.com/stock-exchange-intimation.php and on the website of LIIPL at https://instavote.linkintime. co.in not later than 2 (two) working days of passing of resolutions at the 72[nd] AGM of the Company and communicated to BSE Limited, where the shares of the Company are listed.

  • vii. Subject to casting of requisite number of assenting votes, the resolutions proposed in the Notice of AGM shall be deemed to be passed on the date of the AGM, i.e. Monday, August 12, 2024.

  • viii. Members/shareholders are requested to follow the instructions given below as may be required i.e.:

  • (a) Instructions for members for remote e-Voting.

  • (b) Instructions for members attending the AGM through VC/OAVM.

  • (c) Instructions for members to register themselves to speak during the AGM through InstaMeet; and

  • (d) Instructions for members to vote during the AGM through InstaMeet.

14. Instructions for members/shareholders for remote e-Voting:

  • i. Pursuant to SEBI master circular SEBI/HO/CFD/PoD2/ CIR/P/2023/120 dated July 11, 2023, individual members holding securities in demat mode can register directly with the depository or will have the option of accessing various ESP portals directly from their demat accounts.

  • ii. Members are advised to update their mobile number and email Id in their demat accounts to access e-Voting facility.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 283

In case the email Id is not registered, such members can vote through InstaMeet.

  • iii. Login method for Individual members holding securities in demat mode/ physical mode is given below:

Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode with NSDL:

METHOD 1 - If registered with NSDL IDeAS facility Users who have registered for NSDL IDeAS facility:

  • a) Visit URL: https://eservices.nsdl.com and click on “Beneficial Owner” icon under “Login”.

  • b) Enter user id and password. Post successful authentication, click on “Access to e-voting”.

  • c) Click on “LINKINTIME” or “evoting link displayed alongside Company’s Name” and you will be redirected to Link Intime InstaVote website for casting the vote during the remote e-Voting period.

OR

User not registered for IDeAS facility:

  • a) To register, visit URL: https://eservices.nsdl.com and select “Register Online for IDeAS Portal” or click on https://eservices. nsdl.com/SecureWeb/IdeasDirectReg.jsp

  • b) Proceed with updating the required fields.

  • c) Post registration, user will be provided with Login ID and password.

  • d) After successful login, click on “Access to e-voting”.

  • e) Click on “LINKINTIME” or “evoting link displayed alongside Company’s Name” and you will be redirected to Link Intime InstaVote website for casting the vote during the remote e-Voting period.

METHOD 2 - By directly visiting the e-Voting website of NSDL:

  • a) Visit URL: https://www.evoting.nsdl.com/

  • b) Click on the “Login” tab available under ‘Shareholder/Member’ section.

  • c) Enter User ID (i.e., your sixteen-digit demat account number held with NSDL), Password/OTP and a Verification Code as shown on the screen.

  • d) Post successful authentication, you will be re-directed to NSDL depository website wherein you can see “Access to e-voting”.

  • e) Click on “LINKINTIME” or “evoting link displayed alongside Company’s Name” and you will be redirected to Link Intime InstaVote website for casting the vote during the remote e-Voting period.

Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode with CDSL:

METHOD 1 – From Easi/Easiest

Users who have registered/ opted for Easi/Easiest

  • a) Visit URL: https://web.cdslindia.com/myeasitoken/Home/Login or www.cdslindia.com.

  • b) Click on New System Myeasi

  • c) Login with user id and password

  • d) After successful login, user will be able to see e-Voting menu. The menu will have links of e-Voting service providers i.e., LINKINTIME, for voting during the remote e-Voting period.

  • e) Click on “LINKINTIME” or “evoting link displayed alongside Company’s Name” and you will be redirected to Link Intime InstaVote website for casting the vote during the remote e-Voting period.

OR

Users not registered for Easi/Easiest

  • a) To register, visit URL: https://web.cdslindia.com/myeasitoken/ Registration/EasiRegistration / https://web.cdslindia.com/ myeasitoken/Registration/EasiestRegistration

  • b) Proceed with updating the required fields.

  • c) Post registration, user will be provided Login ID and password.

  • d) After successful login, user able to see e-Voting menu.

  • e) Click on “LINKINTIME” or “evoting link displayed alongside Company’s Name” and you will be redirected to Link Intime InstaVote website for casting the vote during the remote e-Voting period.

METHOD 2 - By directly visiting the e-Voting website of CDSL.

  • a) Visit URL: https://www.cdslindia.com/

  • b) Go to e-voting tab.

  • c) Enter Demat Account Number (BO ID) and PAN No. and click on “Submit”.

  • d) System will authenticate the user by sending OTP on registered Mobile and Email as recorded in Demat Account

  • e) After successful authentication, click on “LINKINTIME” or “evoting link displayed alongside Company’s Name” and you will be redirected to Link Intime InstaVote website for casting the vote during the remote e-Voting period.

Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode with Depository Participant:

Individual shareholders can also login using the login credentials of your demat account through your depository participant registered with NSDL/CDSL for e-Voting facility.

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  • a) Login to DP website

  • b) After Successful login, members shall navigate through “e-voting” tab under Stocks option.

  • c) Click on e-Voting option, members will be redirected to NSDL/ CDSL Depository site after successful authentication, wherein you can see e-Voting menu.

  • d) After successful authentication, click on “LINKINTIME” or “evoting link displayed alongside Company’s Name” and you will be redirected to Link Intime InstaVote website for casting the vote during the remote e-Voting period.

Login method for Individual shareholders holding securities in - physical form/ Non Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode is given below:

Individual Shareholders of the company, holding shares in physical form / Non-Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode as on the cut-off date for e-Voting may register for e-Voting facility of Link Intime as under:

  1. Visit URL: https://instavote.linkintime.co.in

  2. Click on “Sign Up” under ‘SHARE HOLDER ’ tab and register with your following details:

A. User ID:

Shareholders holding shares in physical form shall provide Event No + Folio Number registered with the Company. Shareholders holding shares in NSDL demat account shall provide 8 Character DP ID followed by 8 Digit Client ID; Shareholders holding shares in CDSL demat account shall provide 16 Digit Beneficiary ID.

B. PAN:

Enter your 10 alpha-numeric digit (‘digit’) Permanent Account Number (PAN) (Shareholders who have not updated their PAN with the Depository Participant (DP)/ Company shall use the sequence number provided to you, if applicable.

C. DOB/DOI:

Enter the Date of Birth (DOB) / Date of Incorporation (DOI) (As recorded with your DP / Company - in DD/MM/YYYY format)

  • D. Bank Account Number:

Enter your Bank Account Number (last four digits), as recorded with your DP/Company.

  • Shareholders holding shares in physical form but have not recorded ‘C’ and ‘D’, shall provide their Folio number in ‘D’ above

  • Shareholders holding shares in NSDL form, shall provide ‘D’ above

  • Set the password of your choice (The password should contain minimum 8 characters, at least one special Character (@!#$&*), at least one numeral, at least one alphabet and at least one capital letter).

  • Click “confirm” (Your password is now generated).

  • Click on ‘Login’ under ‘ SHARE HOLDER ’ tab.

  • Enter your User ID, Password and Image Verification (CAPTCHA) Code and click on ‘ Submit’.

Cast your vote electronically:

  1. After successful login, you will be able to see the notification for e-Voting. Select ‘View’ icon.

  2. E-Voting page will appear.

  3. Refer the Resolution description and cast your vote by selecting your desired option ‘Favour / Against’ (If you wish to view the entire Resolution details, click on the ‘View Resolution’ file link).

  4. After selecting the desired option i.e. Favour / Against, click on ‘Submit’. A confirmation box will be displayed. If you wish to confirm your vote, click on ‘Yes’, else to change your vote, click on ‘No’ and accordingly modify your vote.

Guidelines for Institutional shareholders (“Corporate Body/ Custodian/Mutual Fund”):

STEP 1 – Registration

  • a) Visit URL: https://instavote.linkintime.co.in

  • b) Click on Sign up under “Corporate Body/ Custodian/Mutual Fund”

  • c) Fill up your entity details and submit the form.

  • d) A declaration form and organization ID is generated and sent to the Primary contact person email ID (which is filled at the time of sign up). The said form is to be signed by the Authorised Signatory, Director, Company Secretary of the entity & stamped and sent to [email protected].

  • e) Thereafter, Login credentials (User ID; Organisation ID; Password) will be sent to Primary contact person’s email ID.

  • f) While first login, entity will be directed to change the password and login process is completed.

STEP 2 –Investor Mapping

  • a) Visit URL: https://instavote.linkintime.co.in and login with credentials as received in Step 1 above.

  • b) Click on “Investor Mapping” tab under the Menu Section

  • c) Map the Investor with the following details:

  • a. ‘Investor ID’ -

    • i. Members holding shares in NSDL demat account shall provide 8 Character DP ID followed by 8 Digit Client ID i.e., IN00000012345678

    • ii. Members holding shares in CDSL demat account shall provide 16 Digit Beneficiary ID.

  • b. ‘Investor’s Name - Enter full name of the entity.

  • c. ‘Investor PAN’ - Enter your 10-digit PAN issued by Income Tax Department.

Annual Report 2023-24 | 285

  • d. ‘Power of Attorney’ - Attach Board resolution or Power of Attorney. File Name for the Board resolution/Power of Attorney shall be – DP ID and Client ID. Further, Custodians and Mutual Funds shall also upload specimen signature card.

  • d) Click on Submit button and investor will be mapped now.

  • e) The same can be viewed under the “Report Section”.

STEP 3 – Voting through remote e-Voting.

The corporate shareholder can vote by the following methods, once remote e-Voting is activated:

METHOD 1 - VOTES ENTRY

  • a) Visit URL: https://instavote.linkintime.co.in and login with credentials as received in Step 1 above.

  • b) Click on ‘Votes Entry’ tab under the Menu section.

  • c) Enter Event No. for which you want to cast vote. Event No. will be available on the home page of Instavote before the start of remote e-Voting.

  • d) Enter ‘16-digit Demat Account No.’ for which you want to cast vote.

  • e) Refer the Resolution description and cast your vote by selecting your desired option ‘Favour / Against’ (If you wish to view the entire Resolution details, click on the ‘View Resolution’ file link).

  • f) After selecting the desired option i.e., Favour / Against, click on ‘Submit’.

  • g) A confirmation box will be displayed. If you wish to confirm your vote, click on ‘Yes’, else to change your vote, click on ‘No’ and accordingly modify your vote. (Once you cast your vote on the resolution, you will not be allowed to modify or change it subsequently).

OR

Helpdesk for Individual shareholders holding securities - in physical form/ Non Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode:

Shareholders facing any technical issue in login may contact Link Intime INSTAVOTE helpdesk by sending a request at enotices@ linkintime.co.in or contact on: - Tel: 022 – 4918 6000.

Helpdesk for Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode:

Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode may contact the respective helpdesk for any technical issues related to login through Depository i.e., NSDL and CDSL.

Login type Helpdesk details
Individual Shareholders
holding
securities
in
demat mode with NSDL
Members facing any technical issue in
login can contact NSDL helpdesk by
sending a request [email protected]
or call at : 022 - 4886 7000 and 022 -
2499 7000
Individual Shareholders
holding
securities
in
demat mode with CDSL
Members facing any technical issue in
login can contact CDSL helpdesk by
sending a request athelpdesk.evoting@
cdslindia.comor contact at toll free no.
1800 22 55 33

Forgot Password:

Individual shareholders holding securities in physical form has forgotten the password:

If an Individual shareholders holding securities in physical form has forgotten the USER ID [Login ID] or Password or both then the shareholder can use the “Forgot Password” option available on the e-Voting website of Link Intime: https://instavote.linkintime.co.in

  • Click on ‘ Login’ under ‘SHARE HOLDER’ tab and further Click ‘forgot password?

  • Enter User ID, select Mode and Enter Image Verification code (CAPTCHA). Click on SUBMIT”.

METHOD 2 - VOTES UPLOAD:

  • a) Visit URL: https://instavote.linkintime.co.in and login with credentials as received in Step 1 above.

  • b) You will be able to see the notification for e-Voting in inbox.

  • c) Select ‘View’ icon for ‘Company’s Name / Event number ‘ . E-Voting page will appear.

  • d) Download sample vote file from ‘Download Sample Vote File’ option.

  • e) Cast your vote by selecting your desired option ‘Favour / Against’ in excel and upload the same under ‘Upload Vote File’ option.

  • f) Click on ‘Submit’. ‘Data uploaded successfully’ message will be displayed. (Once you cast your vote on the resolution, you will not be allowed to modify or change it subsequently).

In case shareholders is having valid email address, Password will be sent to his / her registered e-mail address. Shareholders can set the password of his/her choice by providing the information about the particulars of the Security Question and Answer, PAN, DOB/DOI, Bank Account Number (last four digits) etc. as mentioned above. The password should contain a minimum of 8 characters, at least one special character (@!#$&*), at least one numeral, at least one alphabet and at least one capital letter.

User ID for Shareholders holding shares in Physical Form (i.e. Share Certificate): Your User ID is Event No + Folio Number registered with the Company

User ID for Shareholders holding shares in NSDL demat account is 8 Character DP ID followed by 8 Digit Client ID

User ID for Shareholders holding shares in CDSL demat account is 16 Digit Beneficiary ID.

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Institutional shareholders (“Corporate Body/ Custodian/ Mutual Fund”) has forgotten the password:

If a Non-Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode has forgotten the USER ID [Login ID] or Password or both then the shareholder can use the “Forgot Password” option available on the e-Voting website of Link Intime: https://instavote.linkintime.co.in

  • Click on ‘Login’ under ‘ Corporate Body/ Custodian/Mutual Fund ’ tab and further Click ‘ forgot password?’

  • Enter User ID, Organization ID and Enter Image Verification code (CAPTCHA). Click on “SUBMIT”.

In case shareholders is having valid email address, Password will be sent to his / her registered e-mail address. Shareholders can set the password of his/her choice by providing the information about the particulars of the Security Question and Answer, PAN, DOB/DOI, Bank Account Number (last four digits) etc. as mentioned above. The password should contain a minimum of 8 characters, at least one special character (@!#$&*), at least one numeral, at least one alphabet and at least one capital letter.

Individual Shareholders holding securities in demat mode with NSDL/ CDSL has forgotten the password:

Shareholders who are unable to retrieve User ID/ Password are advised to use Forget User ID and Forget Password option available at abovementioned depository/ depository participants website.

  • It is strongly recommended not to share your password with any other person and take utmost care to keep your password confidential.

  • For shareholders/ members holding shares in physical form, the details can be used only for voting on the resolutions contained in this Notice.

  • During the voting period, shareholders/ members can login any number of time till they have voted on the resolution(s) for a particular “Event”.

15. Process and manner for members attending the AGM through VC/OAVM (InstaMeet):

  1. Members are being provided with a facility to attend the AGM through VC/OAVM through LIIPL by following the below mentioned process. Members may access the same at https:// instameet.linkintime.co.in

  2. Facility for joining the AGM through VC/OAVM shall open 30 minutes before the time scheduled for the AGM and will be available to the members on first-come-first-served basis.

  3. Participation to the members through VC/OAVM shall be made available to members on first-come-first served basis in accordance with MCA Circulars, and it will be closed on expiry of 30 (Thirty) minutes from the scheduled time of the AGM. Members with >2% shareholding, Promoters, Institutional Investors, Directors, KMPs, Chairpersons of Audit Committee, Nomination and

Remuneration Committee, Stakeholders Relationship Committee and Auditors etc. may be allowed to the AGM without restrictions of first-come-first-served basis.

  1. Members will be provided with InstaMeet facility wherein members shall register their details and attend the AGM as under:

  2. a. Open the internet browser and launch the URL for InstaMeet https://instameet.linkintime.co.in and click on ‘Login’

  3. b. Select the ‘Company’ and ‘Event Date’ and register with your following details:

    • i. Demat Account No. or Folio No: Enter your 16 digit Demat Account No. or Folio No.

      • Members/ members holding shares in CDSL demat account shall provide 16 Digit Beneficiary ID

      • Members/ members holding shares in NSDL demat account shall provide 8 Character DP ID followed by 8 Digit Client ID

      • Members/ members holding shares in physical form shall provide Folio Number registered with the Company

    • ii. PAN: Enter your 10-digit Permanent Account Number (PAN) (Members who have not updated their PAN with the Depository Participant (DP)/ Company shall use the sequence number provided to you, if applicable.

    • iii. Mobile No.: Enter your mobile number.

    • iv. Email ID: Enter your email id, as recorded with your DP/Company.

  4. c. Click ‘ Go To Meeting’ (By this step you will be registered for InstaMeet and your attendance will be marked for the meeting).

Special instructions:

  • a) Please refer the following instructions for the software requirements and kindly ensure to install the same on the device which would be used to attend the AGM. You may also call upon the InstaMeet Support Desk for any support on the dedicated number provided to you below / at InstaMeet website.

  • b) Guidelines for the registered speakers for speaking at the AGM through LIIPL’s InstaMeet https://instameet. linkintime.co.in

  • i. For a smooth experience of viewing the AGM proceedings through LIIPL’s InstaMeet, members/ members who are registered as speakers (as per steps in mentioned in these notes to AGM Notice) for the event are requested to download and install the

Annual Report 2023-24 | 287

Webex Meetings application in advance. Please download and install the Webex Meetings application by clicking on the link https:// www.webex.com/downloads.html/

OR

  • ii. If you do not want to download and install the Webex Meetings application, you may join the meeting through InstaMeet and follow the process mentioned as under:
Step 1 Enteryour First Name, Last Name and Email ID and click on Join Now
1(A) If you have already installed the Webex Meetings application on your device, join the meeting by clicking
on Join Now
1(B) If the Webex Meetings application is not installed, a new page will appear giving you an option to either Add
Webex to chrome or run a temporary application.
Click on Run a temporary application, an exe fle will be downloaded. Click on this exe fle to run the
application and join the meeting by clicking on Join Now by flling your frst name, last name and email
address.
  • c) The following URLs need to be white-listed in your organisation’s domain/your own laptop, desktop, tablet, smartphone etc. on the AGM date:

  • A. https://camonview.com

  • B. https://instameet.linkintime.co.in

  • d) Members are encouraged to join the Meeting through Tablets/ Laptops connected through broadband for better experience. Members are required to use internet with a good speed (preferably 2 MBPS download stream) to avoid any disturbance during the meeting.

  • e) Any internet outage or fluctuation in connectivity at your site may have an adverse impact on the audio/ video quality during the meeting. LIIPL or the Company shall not be responsible for the same.

  • f) Members connecting from Mobile Devices or Tablets or through Laptops connecting via Mobile Hotspot may experience Audio/Visual loss due to fluctuation in their network. It is therefore recommended to use stable WiFI or LAN connection to mitigate any kind of aforesaid glitches.

  • g) In case the members have both the computer and telephone audio active or the speakers on members’ computers or telephones are too close to each other or there are multiple computers with active audio in the same conference room, there will be instances of audio echo or feedback in the meeting.

  • h) In case two or more members are joining the meeting through a Board Room/Common Location, proper arrangements of audio and video should be in place and Webex will be run on only one system.

  • i) Members are encouraged to speak in the Meeting after un-muting themselves once their turn arrives as per the script/their name is announced. Once the member has finished communicating, he/she should mute themselves

immediately. (Mute your side if you’re not speaking. Your microphone can pick up a lot of background noise, so muting allows others to easily hear others.)

  • j) Guidelines to follow while participating in the meeting for a good audio-video experience:

  • Use your earphones for better sound quality.

  • Ensure no other background applications are running.

  • Ensure your Wi-Fi or Broadband is not connected to any other device.

  • Have proper lighting in the room and avoid the background sounds.

  • Ensure the background is bright.

  • Please follow safety protocol while attending the meeting.

  • k) In case members have any queries regarding login/remote e-Voting/e-Voting, they may send an email to instameet@ linkintime.co.in or contact on: - Tel: 022-49186175 InstaMeet Support Desk, Link Intime India Private Limited.

16. Instructions for members to register themselves to speak during the Annual General Meeting through InstaMeet:

  1. Members who would like to speak during the AGM must register their request with the Company.

  2. Members will get confirmation on first-come-first-served basis depending upon the provision made by the client.

  3. Members will receive “speaking serial number” once they mark attendance for the AGM.

  4. Other members may ask questions to the panelist, via active chat-board during the AGM.

  5. Please remember to speak serial number and start your conversation with panelist by switching on video mode and audio of your device.

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Note: Members are requested to speak only when moderator of the AGM/ management will announce the name and speaking serial number.

17. Instructions for members to vote during the AGM through InstaMeet:

Once the electronic voting is activated by the Scrutinizer / moderator during the AGM, the members who have not exercised their vote through the remote e-Voting can cast the vote as under:

  • i. On the Members VC page, click on the link for e-Voting “Cast your vote”.

  • ii. Enter your 16-digit Demat Account No. / Folio No. and OTP (received on the registered mobile number/registered email id) received during registration for InstaMeet and click on ‘Submit’.

  • iii. After successful login, you will see “Resolution Description” and against the same the option ‘Favour/ Against’ for voting.

  • iv. Cast your vote by selecting appropriate option i.e., ‘Favour/ Against’ as desired. Enter the number of shares (which represents no. of votes) as on Cut-Off Date under ‘Favour/ Against’.

  • v. After selecting the appropriate option i.e., ‘Favour/Against’ as desired and you have decided to vote, click on ‘Save’. A confirmation box will be displayed. If you wish to confirm your vote, click on ‘Confirm’, else to change your vote, click on ‘Back’ and accordingly modify your vote.

  • vi. Once you confirm your vote on the resolution, you will not be allowed to modify or change your vote subsequently.

Note: Members, who will be present in the AGM through InstaMeet facility and have not cast their vote on the resolutions through remote e-Voting and are otherwise not barred from doing so, shall be eligible to vote through e-Voting facility during the AGM. Members who have voted through Remote e-Voting prior to the AGM will be eligible to attend/ participate in the AGM through InstaMeet. However, they will not be eligible to vote again during the AGM.

Shareholders/ members are encouraged to join the AGM through tablets/ laptops connected through broadband for a better experience.

Shareholders/ members are required to use the Internet with a good speed (preferably 2 MBPS download stream) to avoid any disturbance during the AGM.

Please note that shareholders/ members connecting from mobile devices or tablets or through laptops connecting via mobile hotspot may experience audio/visual loss due to fluctuation in their network. It is therefore recommended to use stable Wi-FI or LAN connection to mitigate any kind of aforesaid glitches.

In case shareholders/ members have any queries regarding login/ e-Voting, they may send an email to instameet@ linkintime.co.in or contact on: - Tel: 022-49186175.

18. In addition to facility of remote e-Voting or e-Voting provided to the members at AGM and for their wider participation the Company is also providing a facility to vote by way of Ballot Form. Members who do not have access to remote e-Voting facility may download the Ballot Form available at Company’s website at https://fermentabiotech.com/annual-report.php and send duly completed Ballot Form to reach the Scrutiniser, Mr. V. N. Deodhar, Proprietor of V.N. Deodhar & Co., Practising Company Secretaries, at the Registered Office of the Company not later than Sunday August 11, 2024 (5.00 p.m. IST) . Ballot Form received after the said date shall be treated as invalid. A Member may participate in the AGM even after exercising his/her right to vote through Ballot Form. A Member can opt for only one mode of voting i.e., either (a) electronically (either remote e-Voting or e-Voting at AGM) or (b) by Ballot Form. If a Member cast votes by both i.e., Ballot Form as well as electronically, then voting done electronically shall prevail and Ballot Form shall be treated as invalid. The Scrutiniser shall have the right to scrutinise the Ballot Form and decide its validity. The voting rights of members shall be in proportion to their shares of the paid-up equity share capital.

19. The Annual Report 2023-24 including the AGM notice is being uploaded on the following websites: (i) https:// fermentabiotech.com/annual-report.php (ii) www.bseindia. com and (iii) https://instavote.linkintime.co.in/.

By Order of the Board of Directors of Fermenta Biotech Limited

Srikant N. Sharma

Date: June 20, 2024 Company Secretary & Vice President (Legal) Place: Thane Membership No: FCS – 3617

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Notes

Notes

Notes

Corporate information

Board of Directors

**Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan *** Chairman and Non-Executive Independent Director

Ms. Rajeshwari Datla Non-Executive Director

Ms. Rajashri Ojha Non-Executive Independent Director

Mr. Pramod Kasat Non-Executive Independent Director

Mr. Krishna Datla Executive Vice-Chairman (Whole-time Director)

Mr. Satish Varma Executive Director

Ms. Anupama Datla Desai Executive Director

Mr. Prashant Nagre Managing Director

Company secretary

Mr. Srikant N. Sharma

Chief financial officer

Mr. Sumesh Gandhi

Solicitors

Crawford Bayley & Co. Mundkur Law Partners

Auditors

S R B C & Co. LLP Chartered Accountants

Tax auditors

SCA & Associates Chartered Accountants

Internal auditors

M. M. Nissim & Co. LLP Chartered Accountants

Cost auditors

Joshi Apte & Associates Cost Accountants

Bankers

HDFC Bank Limited Union Bank Limited Yes Bank Limited Bank of Baroda IndusInd Bank

Corporate identification number (CIN) L99999MH1951PLC008485

International securities identification number (ISIN): INE225B01021

Registered office

A -1501, Thane One, DIL Complex, Ghodbunder Road, Majiwada, Thane (West) - 400610, Maharashtra, India. Tel No: + 91 22 66230800 Fax No: + 91 22 67980899 Email: [email protected]

Works

Village Takoli, P. O. Nagwain, Dist. Mandi - 175121, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Z – 109 B & C, SEZ II, Dahej, Taluka - Vagara, Dist: Bharuch - 392130, Gujarat, India.

FRK Plant, Sy. No. 3/A, Pennepalli (V), Pellakuru Mandal, Tirupati Dist., 524126, Andhra Pradesh

Research & development unit

(Biotech and API Lab)

Plot No B 41, Road No. 27, Wagle Industrial Area, Thane, West - 400604, Maharashtra, India

Registrar and transfer agents

Link Intime India Private Limited

C 101, 247 Park, L B S Marg, Vikhroli West, Mumbai - 400083, Maharashtra, India Tel No: +91 22 49186000 Fax No: +91 22 49186060 Email: [email protected] Website: www.linkintime.co.in

Websites

www.fermentabiotech.com www.thaneone.com www.vitamindguru.com

  • Mr. Pradeep M. Chandan was appointed as Independent Director w.e.f. February 12, 2024 and as the Chairman w.e.f. April 1, 2024.

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