Mar 31, 2018
To the Members,
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the Thirty Third Annual Report and Companyâs Audited Financial Statements for the financial year ended March 31, 2018.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(Rs. in Crores)
Standalone |
Consolidated |
|||
For the year ended March 31 |
2018 |
2017 |
2018 |
2017 |
Total Income |
225.10 |
203.39 |
868.97 |
826.00 |
Total Expenses |
66.77 |
75.05 |
1102.63 |
1012.36 |
(Loss) / Profit before tax |
158.33 |
128.34 |
(233.66) |
(186.36) |
Provision for tax (incl. deferred tax) |
54.22 |
25.43 |
57.45 |
17.55 |
(Loss) / Profit after tax |
104.11 |
102.91 |
(291.11) |
(203.91) |
Minority Interest |
- |
- |
(46.60) |
(147.30) |
(Loss) / Profit after Minority Interest |
104.11 |
102.91 |
(244.51) |
(56.61) |
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS AND STATE OF AFFAIRS
The financial results are drawn after giving effect to the Scheme of Amalgamation of Grant Investrade Limited (âGILâ), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company into the Company (the âSchemeâ) w.e.f October 01, 2017, being the appointed date. The aforesaid Scheme was approved by the Honâble National Company Law Tribunal on May 10, 2018 and the Scheme became effective w.e.f July 2, 2018.
On a Standalone basis, the total income for the financial year 2017-18 at RS.225.10 Crores was higher by 10.67% compared to last year (RS.203.39 Crores in 2016-17). The total income of last year includes RS.13.65 Crores from high seas sale of Set Top Boxes. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) were RS.208.42 Crores registering a growth of 18.78% over EBITDA of RS.175.46 Crores in 2016-17. Profit after tax (PAT) increased by 1.17% to RS.104.11 Crores over PAT of RS.102.91 Crores in 2016-17.
On a Consolidated basis, the total income for the financial year 2017-18 at RS.868.97 Crores was higher by 5.20% over last year (RS.826.00 Crores in 2016-17). Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation & amortization (EBITDA) and exceptional income / (expense) were RS.69.62 Crores as against RS.99.46 Crores in 2016-17. Net loss after tax and minority interest increased to RS.244.51 Crores from RS.56.61 Crores in 2016-17.
DIVIDEND
Your Directors are pleased to recommend for approval of the Members, a dividend of RS.17.50 per equity share (previous year RS.17.50 per equity share) i.e. 175% of the face value of RS.10/- each for the financial year ended March 31, 2018. Dividend, as recommended, if approved by the Members, would involve a total cash outflow of RS.43.37 Crores including dividend distribution tax representing approximately 42% of the current year earnings.
REVIEW OF INDIAN ECONOMY
India has emerged as the fastest growing major economy in the world as per the Central Statistics Organization (CSO) and International Monetary Fund (IMF) and it is expected to be one of the top three economic powers of the world over the next 10-15 years backed by its strong democratic traditions and partnerships. Indiaâs Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is estimated to have increased 6.60% in 2017-18 and is expected to grow to 7.30% in 2018-19.
In line with the thrust being provided by the Government for development in the core sectors, this yearâs Budget has focused on uplifting the rural economy and strengthening of the agriculture sector, healthcare for the economically less privileged, infrastructure creation and improvement in the quality of education of the country. As per the Budget, the Government is committed towards doubling the farmerâs income by 2022. Significant budgetary allocation have been made for infrastructure and especially for the rail and road sectors. India is also focusing on renewable sources to generate energy. It is planning to achieve 40% of its energy from non-fossil sources by 2030 which is currently 30% and also have plans to increase its renewable energy capacity from 57 GW to 175 GW by 2022.
While the economy is on the right growth path trajectory and inflation has been more or less brought under control, increase in international oil prices and the US Governmentâs policy on interest rates could act as spoil sports leading to decline in the value of the rupee and causing some inflationary trends.
A major business environmental change during the year under review was the implementation of Goods and Service Tax (âGSTâ) law. While this has led to a lot of temporary disruption in the short run, it is expected that in the long run the various issues faced will be ironed out and GST will have a positive impact on the long term economy.
AMALGAMATION OF GRANT INVESTRADE LIMITED WITH THE COMPANY
The Board of Directors of the Company and Grant Investrade Limited at their respective Meetings held on January 09, 2018, had approved the Scheme of Amalgamation of Grant Investrade Limited (âGILâ), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company into the Company (the âSchemeâ) pursuant to the provisions of Sections 230 to 232 of the Companies Act, 2013 and fixed October 01, 2017 as the appointed date for the aforesaid Scheme.
The aforesaid Scheme of Amalgamation was approved by the Honâble National Company Law Tribunal on May 10, 2018 and the Scheme came into effect from July 2, 2018. The entire business and whole of the undertaking of GIL stands transferred and vested in the Company effective from October 01, 2017, being the appointed date of the said Scheme.
Since the amalgamation was of the wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, neither any consideration was paid nor any shares were issued.
TREASURY & INVESTMENTS
Hinduja Leyland Finance Limited:
Your Company has always had a positive outlook towards the growth prospects of Hinduja Leyland Finance Limited (ââHLFLââ). Hence, during the year under review, as part of its treasury business, the Company acquired a total of 23,83,829 equity shares of RS.10/- each of HLFL at premium, by subscribing to the various right issues of HLFL, thereby making an aggregate investment of RS.24.54 Crores.
Further, the Company through a private arrangement also acquired an additional of 18,73,917 equity shares of HLFL for a total consideration of RS.20.61 Crores.
The Company holds 2,58,15,438 equity shares representing 5.66% of the paid-up capital of HLFL at an average price of RS.30.30 per share.
The Board of Directors at its meeting held on May 07, 2018, approved to offer for sale 22,82,475 equity shares of HLFL as and when HLFL goes for Public Offer at a price to be determined at the time when public offer of HLFL comes out.
IndusInd Bank Limited:
During the period April 01, 2017 till the date of this report, your company has disinvested in aggregate 18,40,000 equity shares of RS.10/- each of IndusInd Bank Limited (âIBLâ).
After the above disinvestment, the Company holds 68,28,196 equity shares of RS.10/- each of IBL.
IndusInd Media & Communications Limited:
During the year under review, the Headend-in-the-Sky business undertaking of Grant Investrade Limited (âGILâ), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company was de-merged into IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (âIMCLâ), a subsidiary of the Company pursuant to the order dated August 10, 2017 of the Honâble National Company Law Tribunal. Pursuant to the de-merger, 2,29,48,239 equity shares of IMCL were issued to the Company by IMCL on August 22, 2017 in the ratio of 338 equity shares in IMCL for every 100 equity shares held in GIL.
Further, on amalgamation of GIL into the Company, 3,09,54,503 equity shares of IMCL of RS.10/- each held by GIL as investment was transferred and vested in to the Company.
After the above restructurings, the Company in aggregate holds 9,85,61,325 equity shares of IMCL representing 73.66% of the paid-up equity share capital of IMCL.
SUBSIDIARIES
Media:
IndusInd Media & Communications Limited:
During the financial year 2017-18, NXT Digital and InDigital distribution platforms of IMCL combined has seen an upward trend in terms of its subscription revenue and subscriber base. While the subscription revenue increased by 31%, there was an increase in the subscriber base by 25%. IMCL along with its subsidiary companies have an active subscriber base of 4.6 million.
IMCLâs increased focus on media communication and marketing communication activities and cable operator meets has lead the Cable Operators to recognize and acknowledge NXT Digital HITS as the most advanced, stable and operator friendly platform.
Today, NXT Digital is the only Satellite and Fibre Hybrid digital platform in India to cover all the 29 states and 5 Union territories. In 2 years of active installation, NXT Digital is available in 47 of the 99 smart cities and is active in 56 of the 100 top cities as per the latest population estimates. IMCL has supported whole heartedly both in spirit and form the three thrust areas of the Government of India -âDigital Indiaâ through active digitization of the cable network on a pan India basis, âMake in Indiaâ through designing Cable Operators Premises Equipment (COPE), encouraging assembly/manufacture of Set Top Boxes (âSTBsâ) in India and âSkills Indiaâ through training of Local Cable Operators in running and expanding digital networks.
This makes IMCL a truly pan Indian high-quality digital delivery platform. NXT Digital Cable Operators Premises Equipment (COPEs) are active in 1123 codes with signals transmitted to 2103 pin codes in 1097 distinctive locations. IMCL overall is also available now in oveRs.50% large cities and smart cities. IMCL continues to make inroads in to the rural areas of India through its Headend-in-the-Sky (HITS) NXT Digital platform. While growing its network, IMCL has ensured that the Local Cable Operators who through the dint of their hard work over the last 20-30 years have created a vast network and now continue to own their network and are enabled through our technology to provide better service to their customers.
The focus in 2019 will not only be to continue to expand in rural India but also to be active in almost all the top 100 cities and 99 smart cities with a bouquet of video and Value Added Service (VAS) offerings.
With the combined benefits of Hybrid Satellite plus Fiber (HITS) and Fiber based Digital (Digital MSO) platforms, IMCL could garner one of the highest number of additional subscribers in the cable based platform in the industry in the year. During the year, IMCL was successful in achieving a total deployment of around 1.5 million STBs thereby increasing the STB deployments by 29% over corresponding period last year. It gives a platform for entrepreneurship and employment generation to States. Most State Governments have been very keen to support the HITS NXT Digital of IMCL.
IMCL has already converted 95% of its subscription revenues to prepaid through the Local Cable Operators. The balance 5% homes are being rapidly converted to prepaid in the coming year. This will make IMCL the only Digital Cable/ HITS Digital Platform Operator in the country whose collections are nearly one hundred percent on a prepaid basis.
It may be noted that 99% of NXT Digital is on prepaid model. All fresh activations are on prepaid model. The prepaid mode has helped IMCL achieve substantially guaranteed subscription collection.
InDigital has also taken steady strides during the year under review with its presence in high Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) markets like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Nagpur and Nasik. Despite strong competition and heavy subsidization of STBs and free subscription services by other MSOs, Indigital has stood firm. In this difficult scenario, Indigital has steadfastly increased subscription rates year on year.
The Company feels that there is scope for deployment for the Digital Platform Operator (DPO) to an additional 30 million homes in the Rural Universe of 99 million homes. AnotheRs.20 million homes await power to households and will begin to watch television in next 3 year
The new Digital Tariff Order issued by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India is expected to have a positive impact on the fortunes of the Cable TV Industry by Q4 of the next financial year when the order comes into effect.
SUBSIDIARIES
Grant Investrade Limited ceased to be the wholly owned subsidiary of the Company with effect from July 2, 2018 on account of its amalgamation with the Company.
Further, Vinsat Digital Private Limited became a subsidiary of IndusInd Media & Communications Limited with effect from January 02, 2018 and consequently became an indirect subsidiary of the Company with effect from January 02, 2018.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 129(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 (âthe Actâ), read with Rule 5 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, a statement containing the salient features of the financial statement of the Companyâs subsidiaries and joint venture companies is provided in Form AOC-1 annexed as Annexure âAâ to this Report.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 136 of the Act, the audited financial statements of the Company including consolidated financial statements along with all the relevant documents and separate audited accounts in respect of subsidiaries are available on the website of the Company at the link: http://www.hindujaventures.com/inv/annual_r. html. These documents will also be available for inspection on all working days except Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays at the Registered Office of the Company.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with the Act and Accounting Standard (AS) 21 on Consolidated Financial Statements read with AS-27 on Financial Reporting of Interest in Joint Ventures, the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements are provided in the Annual Report.
NATURE OF BUSINESS
The Companyâs businesses continue to be Media (through its investments in IndusInd Media & Communications Limited), Treasury & Investments and Real Estate.
With the amalgamation of Grant Investrade Limited into the Company, the Company has added substantially to its dark fiber leasing business. Grant Investrade Limited owned close to 4,000 kilometers of underground and overhead dark fiber network across the country which now has become the Companyâs assets. Leasing of the dark fiber will constitute a substantial revenue stream for the company in the coming year
CODE OF CONDUCT
All Board members and Senior Management Personnel have affirmed compliance with the Code of Conduct for the financial year 20172018. A declaration to this effect as required under Regulation 26(3) read with Schedule V(D) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (âSEBI Listing Regulationsâ), from the Managing Director of the Company is annexed as Annexure âBâ to this Report.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION, FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS AND OUTGO
Considering the nature of the business of your Company, there are no particulars to be disclosed relating to the Conservation of Energy, Research and Development and Technology Absorption pursuant to Section 134(3)(m) of the Act during the year under review.
The details of Foreign Exchange Earnings and Outgo are annexed as Annexure âCâ to this Report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
During the year under review, your Company has complied with the Corporate Governance requirements under SEBI Listing Regulations. A detailed Report on Corporate Governance as required under Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of the SEBI Listing Regulations is annexed as Annexure âDâ to this Report.
A certificate from the Statutory Auditors of the Company certifying that the Company has complied with the conditions of Corporate Governance as required under Schedule V(E) of the SEBI Listing Regulations is annexed as Annexure âEâ to this Report.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
Pursuant to Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of the SEBI Listing Regulations, a Separate Management Discussion and Analysis Report covering a wide range of issues relating to industry trends, Company Performance, SWOT analysis, Business Outlook etc. is annexed as Annexure âFâ to this Report.
PUBLIC DEPOSITS
Your Company has not accepted any deposits from the public within the meaning of Chapter V of the Act and as such, no amount of principal or interest was outstanding as on the balance sheet date.
INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND THEIR ADEQUACY
Your Company has in place adequate internal financial controls which commensurate with the size, scale and complexity of its operations. These internal financial controls of the Company encompass entity level controls, controls and processes for each area of operations of the Company including but not limited to Fixed Assets, Investments, Procurement, Operating expenses and Accounts Payables, Revenue and Accounts Receivables, Payroll and Human Resources Management.
The Company has an Internal Audit function that identifies the critical audit areas with specific reference to operations, accounting and finance. The adequacy of the internal controls and risks in such audit areas are reviewed by the Internal Auditor on quarterly basis. The audit is based on the Internal Audit Plan which is reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee. Based on the observations of the Internal Auditor, corrective actions are undertaken by the process owners in their respective area and thereby strengthening the internal control.
The Internal Control System of your company is also tested on a quarterly basis by a specialized external audit firm. In addition to such periodic audits, the Company also has in place a well implemented risk management policy.
Your Company has complied with specific requirements as laid down under Section 134(5)(e) of the Act which calls for establishment and implementation of Internal Financial Control framework that supports compliance with requirements of the Act in relation to the Directorâs Responsibility Statement.
The Audit Committee, based on its evaluation has concluded that as on March 31, 2018, your Companyâs internal financial controls were adequate and operating effectively.
EXTRACT OF ANNUAL RETURN
The details forming part of the extract of the Annual Return in Form MGT-9 are annexed as Annexure âGâ to this Report and the same is available on the website of the company at the link: www. hindujaventures.com/inv/annual_r.html.
LOANS, GUARANTEES AND INVESTMENTS
Particulars of loans given, investments made, guarantees given and securities provided are given in Note nos. 12 and 18 of the Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Suitable disclosures as required under AS-18 have been made in Note no. 33 of the Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements.
Since all the transactions/ contracts/ arrangements of the nature as specified in Section 188(1) of the Act entered by the Company during the year under review with related party/(ies) were in the ordinary course of business and on an armâs length basis, no particulars in Form AOC-2 have been furnished, as Section 188(1) of the Act is not applicable.
The Related Party Transactions policy as approved by the Board of Directors has been hosted on the Companyâs website at the web link: http://www. hindujaventures.com/inv/pdf/policy-related-party-transactions.pdf.
DIRECTORâS RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Your Directors to the best of the knowledge and belief and according to the information, explanations and representations obtained by them and after due enquiry, make the following statements in terms of Sections 134(3)(c) and 134(5) of the Act that:
a) in the preparation of the annual accounts for the year ended March 31, 2018, the applicable accounting standards read with requirements set out under Schedule III to the Act, have been followed and there are no material departures from the same;
b) the Directors have 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 as at March 31, 2018 and of the profit of the Company for the year ended on that date;
c) the Directors have taken proper and sufficient care for the maintenance of adequate accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Act for safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities;
d) the Directors have prepared the annual accounts on a going concern basis;
e) the Directors have laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the Company and that such internal financial controls are adequate and are operating effectively; and
f) the Directors have devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems are adequate and operating effectively.
DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
The Board of Directors at its Meeting held on August 03, 2018, re-designated Mr. Ashok P. Hinduja as the Non-Executive Chairman of the Company with effect from October 01, 2018 on expiry of his existing term as Executive Chairman on September 30, 2018.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 152(6) of the Act and in terms of the Articles of Association of the Company, Mr. Ashok Mansukhani, Director (DIN:00143001) retires by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and, being eligible, has offered himself for re-appointment.
The Board of Directors at its Meeting held on February 10, 2018, subject to approval of the members of the Company, elevated Mr. Ashok Mansukhani as Managing Director of the Company with effect from April 30, 2018 for a period of two years from April 30, 2018 to April 29, 2020 on completion of his term as Whole-Time Director of the Company on April 29, 2018.
Resolutions for the appointment of Mr. Ashok Mansukhani and terms and conditions of appointment, remuneration are included in the Notice of Thirty Third (33rd) Annual General Meeting (âAGMâ) for seeking approval of the Members. Brief profile of Mr. Ashok Mansukhani also forms part of the Notice convening the 33rd AGM of your Company.
Re-appointment of Mr. Ashok Mansukhani, as a director immediately on retirement by rotation, shall not be deemed to constitute a break in his appointment as Managing Director.
Your Company has received declaration from all the Independent Directors confirming that they meet the criteria of independence laid down in Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation 16(1)(b) of the SEBI Listing Regulations. There has been no change in the circumstances affecting their status as Independent Directors during the year under review.
As on the date of this report, Mr. Ashok Mansukhani, Managing Director, Mr. Amar Chintopanth, Chief Financial Officer and Mr. Hasmukh Shah, Company Secretary & Compliance Officer are the Key Managerial Personnel of your Company in accordance with the provisions of Section 2(51) read with Section 203 of the Act.
BOARD MEETINGS HELD DURING THE YEAR
During the year, seven (7) meetings of the Board of Directors were held. The details of the meetings are furnished in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE BOARD, ITS COMMITTEES AND DIRECTORS
The Company had engaged the services of a specialized agency to undertake the evaluation process towards the performance of the Directors individually, Board as a whole and the Board Committees. The manner in which evaluation has been carried out by the Board in consultation with such specialized agency has been explained in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.
COMPANYâS POLICY ON DIRECTORâS APPOINTMENT AND REMUNERATION
The Companyâs policy on Directorâs appointment/ remuneration and other matters provided in Section 178(3) of the Act has been disclosed in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.
COMPOSITION OF AUDIT COMMITTEE
The details pertaining to composition of Audit Committee are included in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.
AUDITORS
Statutory Auditors:
At the Thirtieth Annual General Meeting of the Company held on September 23, 2015, M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, Chartered Accountants (ICAI Firm Registration No. 117366W/ W-100018), were appointed as Statutory Auditors of your Company for a term of five years i.e. from the conclusion of the Thirtieth Annual General Meeting until the conclusion of Thirty Fifth Annual General Meeting of the Company.
M/s Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, Chartered Accountants will continue to hold the office as Statutory Auditors of the Company.
The Company has received a confirmation from M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, Chartered Accountants that they are not disqualified to act as the Statutory Auditors and are eligible to hold the office as Auditors of the Company.
Pursuant to the notification of certain sections of Companies (Amendment) Act, 2017 w.e.f. May 05, 2018, the requirement of annual ratification of Statutory Auditors by the members is no longer required. Accordingly, the annual ratification will not be sought from this year onwards.
During the year under review, the statutory auditors of the Company have not reported to the Audit Committee any incident of fraud pursuant to Section 143 (12) of the Act.
The Auditorâs Report to the Members on the Standalone and Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended March 31, 2018 does not contain any qualifications, reservations or adverse remarks.
Cost Auditors:
In accordance with Section 148 of the Act and rules framed thereunder, the Board of Directors on recommendation of Audit Committee, has appointed M/s. ABK & Associates, Cost Accountants, (Firm Registration No. 000036), as Cost Auditors of the Company for the financial year 2018-19 to audit the accounts relating to optic fiber leasing for the financial year ended March 31, 2019. Necessary resolution for ratification of remuneration of the Cost Auditor for the financial year 2018-19 is placed before the Members for ratification/approval.
The accounts and Cost records as specified by the Central Government under Section 148(1) of the Act are made and maintained by the Company. The Cost Audit Report for financial year 2017-18 issued by M/s ABK & Associates, Cost Auditor in respect of the various products prescribed under Cost Audit Rules does not contain any qualifications, reservations or adverse remarks and the same was filed with the Registrar of Companies on August 14, 2018.
Secretarial Auditorâs Report:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Act and Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, Ms. Rupal Jhaveri, a Company Secretary in Whole-Time
Practice (CP: 4225) was appointed to undertake Secretarial Audit for the financial year 2017-18.
The Secretarial Audit Report for the year under review does not contain any qualifications, reservations or adverse remarks. The Secretarial Auditorâs Report is annexed as Annexure âHâ to this Report.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Your Company has always been in the forefront for making its contribution towards the benefit of the society at large especially amongst the weaker sections of the society. Your Company through its CSR Initiatives has contributed towards promoting of education and community healthcare by up-grading primary health centers.
After satisfactorily attaining its objective of promoting community healthcare by up-grading primary health center in Jawahar Taluka, your Company for the financial year 2016-17, made a contribution of RS.60 Lakhs towards Hinduja Foundationâs Rural Development Project in Jawahar Taluka, Maharashtra for implementing a project on livelihood, sanitation and providing drinking water.
The main essence of the Rural Development Project of Hinduja Foundation is to enhance the income generation ability of the local community. Under the Rural Development Project, the livelihood of the project participant communities was enhanced through improved agricultural practices and by facilitating wadi tree-based farming. The communities were provided need-based training towards improved agricultural practices and agricultural inputs such as high quality paddy, vegetables and fruit saplings. In order to ensure availability of water throughout the year for the purpose of agriculture, temporary check dams were constructed. Community based farming was encouraged so as to synergize the efforts and achieve better produce.
In order to ensure that drinking water was easily accessible, various water resource management techniques were undertaken by the Foundation. This included deepening of water wells and lifting of water from such wells through solar powered water lifting techniques. The water was then stored in the water tanks installed at suitable locations in the Jawahar Taluka.
The self-help group of women were given relevant training towards the women empowerment and were introduced to the concept of savings and credit.
For the financial year 2017-18, your company has further contributed RS.1 Crore to Hinduja Foundation towards its Rural Development Project in Jawahar Taluka, Palghar District, Maharashtra and will therefore continue its endeavor to inter alia provide livelihood, sanitation and drinking water.
The composition of the CSR Committee and annual report on CSR activities in terms of the requirements of Sections 134(3)(o) and 135 of the Act read with the Rule 8 and 9 of the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014 is annexed as Annexure âIâ to this Report. The CSR Policy is available on the website of the Company viz www.hindujaventures.com.
WHISTLE BLOWER / VIGIL MECHANISM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 177(9) of the Act read with Rule 7 of the Companies (Meetings of Board and its Powers) Rules, 2014 and Regulation 22 of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the Board of Directors had approved a policy on Whistle Blower / Vigil Mechanism and the same is uploaded on the website of the Company at the link: http://www. hindujaventures.com/inv/pdf/whistlerblower-policy-vigil-mechanism.pdf.
The mechanism enables the directors and employees to report their genuine concerns about unethical behavior, actual or suspected fraud or violation of the Companyâs code of conduct and also assures to provide adequate safeguards against victimization of the concerned director or employee. The employees and other stakeholders have direct access to the Chairperson of the Audit Committee for lodging concerns, if any, for review.
Your Company affirms that no director/ employee has been denied access to the Chairperson of the Audit Committee and that no complaints were received during the year.
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
The risk management policy of the Company lays down the risk strategy of the Company and helps in determining the risk factor, categorizing the various forms of risks affecting the companyâs strategic and financial goals and modes to manage such risks.
The risk identification and remedial steps, if any, to mitigate risks are periodically reviewed by the Company. In addition to reviewing the remedial steps, the Company also assesses whether identified risks still exist or whether the Company is exposed to new risks.
The Audit Committee and Board is updated on how each of the identified risk is monitored during the reporting period so as to ensure that there is no adverse impact on the company.
Further details on risk management are provided in Management Discussion and Analysis Section which form part of this Report.
COMPLIANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF SECRETARIAL STANDARD - 1 (SS-1) AND SECRETARIAL STANDARD - 2 (SS-2)
The Directors have devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India and that such systems are adequate and operating effectively. The company has complied with SS-1 and SS-2.
CREDIT RATING
During the year under review, Brickwork Ratings India Private Limited, a credit rating agency has assigned BWR A1 Rating to the Bank Loan facilities sanctioned to the Company. Instruments with this rating are considered to have very strong degree of safety regarding timely payment of financial obligations and carry lowest credit risk.
In addition to above, Credit Rating Agency namely SMERA Ratings Limited (âSMERAâ), had also assigned rating SMERA A to your company in respect of the credit facilities. The rating outlook is âStableâ.
PREVENTION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Your Company has zero tolerance for sexual harassment at workplace and have adopted policy on Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment at Workplace (âPPRSHâ) in line with provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 and rules thereunder. An Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) has been set up to redress complaints received regarding sexual harassment. All employees (permanent, temporary, trainees) are covered under this policy.
During the financial year under review, no concerns have been raised regarding sexual harassment at the workplace.
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Your Company has on a continuous basis, endeavored to increase awareness among its stakeholders and in the market place about the Companyâs strategy, new developments and financial performance as per rules laid down by the Regulatory Authorities like SEBI etc.
EMPLOYEES PARTICULARS AND RELATED DISCLOSURES
Disclosures pertaining to remuneration and other details as required under Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 is annexed as Annexure âJâ to this Report.
The details of the employee who was in receipt of the remuneration amounting to the limits stipulated in Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(2)(i) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 is annexed as Annexure âKâ to this Report.
Any member interested in obtaining the details of the remuneration drawn by the senior level employees as required under Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(2) and Rule 5(3) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 may write to the Company Secretary at the Registered Office of the Company. The said information is available for inspection by the Members at the Registered Office of the Company on any working day of the Company upto the date of the Thirty Third Annual General Meeting.
GENERAL DISCLOSURES
1) No significant or material orders were passed by any Regulator or Court or Tribunal, which can have an impact on the going concern status and the Companyâs operations in future.
2) There are no material changes and commitments that have occurred between the end of the financial year of the Company and the date of this Report which affects the financial position of the Company.
3) The Managing Director of the Company does not receive any remuneration or commission from any of its subsidiaries.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Your Board of Directors takes this opportunity to thank the Companyâs employees, customers, vendors, business partners, members and bankers for the faith reposed in the Company and also to thank various regulatory authorities and agencies for their support and looks forward to their continued encouragement.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors
Place : Mumbai Ashok P. Hinduja
Date : August 03, 2018 Chairman
Mar 31, 2017
To the Members,
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the Thirty Second Annual Report and Companyâs Audited Financial Statements for the financial year ended March 31, 2017.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
(Rs. in Crores)
For the year ended March 31 |
Standalone |
Consolidated |
|||
2017 |
2016 |
2017 |
2016 |
||
Total Income |
203.39 |
332.48 |
826.00 |
679.98 |
|
Total Expenses |
75.05 |
208.37 |
1012.36 |
776.26 |
|
(Loss) / Profit before tax |
128.34 |
124.11 |
(186.36) |
(96.28) |
|
Exceptional/Extraordinary Income/(Expense) (Net) |
- |
- |
- |
43.69 |
|
(Loss) / Profit before tax |
128.34 |
124.11 |
(186.36) |
(52.59) |
|
Provision for tax (incl. deferred tax) |
25.43 |
23.52 |
17.55 |
37.60 |
|
(Loss) / Profit after tax |
102.91 |
100.59 |
(203.91) |
(90.19) |
|
Minority Interest |
- |
- |
(147.30) |
(8.98) |
|
(Loss)/ Profit after Minority Interest |
102.91 |
100.59 |
(56.61) |
(81.21) |
|
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS AND STATE OF AFFAIRS
The financial results are drawn after giving effect to the Scheme of Arrangement between Grant Investrade Limited (âGILâ), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company and IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (âIMCLâ), a subsidiary of the Company pursuant to which GIL demerged its Headend-in-the-Sky (HITS) business undertaking into IMCL w.e.f October 01, 2016, being the appointed date. The aforesaid Scheme was approved by National Company Law Tribunal vide its Order dated August 10, 2017.
On a Standalone basis, the total income for the financial Year 2016-17 at RS.203.39 Crores was lower by 38.83% compared to last year (RS.332.48 Crores in 2015-16). The total income of last year includes RS.170.93 Crores from high seas sale of Set Top Boxes. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) were RS.175.46 Crores registering a growth of 7.10% over EBITDA of RS.163.83 Crores in 2015-16. Profit after tax (PAT) increased by 2.31% to RS.102.91 Crores over PAT of RS.100.59 Crores in 2015-16
On a Consolidated basis, the total income for the financial Year 2016-17 at RS.826.00 Crores was higher by 21.47% over last year (RS.679.98 Crores in 2015-16). Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation & amortization (EBITDA) and exceptional income / (expense) were RS.99.46 Crores as against RS.125.79 Crores in 2015-16. Net loss after tax and minority interest decreased to RS.56.61 Crores from RS.81.21 Crores in 2015-16.
DIVIDEND
Based on the Companyâs performance, your Directors are pleased to recommend for approval of the Members, a dividend of RS.17.50 per equity share (previous year RS.17.50 per equity share) i.e. 175% of the face value of RS.10/- each for the financial year ended March 31, 2017. Dividend, as recommended, if approved by the Members, would involve a total cash outflow of RS.43.30 Crores including dividend distribution tax representing 42.07% of the current year earnings.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
Your Company proposes to retain the entire amount of RS.102.80 Crores in the profit and loss account during the financial year ended March 31, 2017.
REVIEW OF INDIAN ECONOMY
The Indian economy continues to remain strong with significant growth opportunities especially in the infrastructure sector. The economy has continued to consolidate the gains from the steps taken to ensure macro economic stability. Indiaâs consumer confidence index stood at 136 in the fourth quarter of 2016, topping the global list of countries on the same parameter, because of strong consumer sentiment, according to international market research agency, Nielsen. The Governmentâs continued thrust to âMake in Indiaâ, encouraging start up enterprises, opening up the defence sector to private enterprise and such other pro-active measures is sure to create a positive impact on growth.
Moodyâs has affirmed Indiaâs Baa3 rating with a positive outlook stating that the reforms by the Government will enable the country to perform better compared to its peers over the medium term.
Inflation, being lower than the previous year, has enabled a lower interest regime to facilitate credit expansion. However, economic activity has been fueled more by Government spending as the private sector continues to fight shy of making huge investments for growth.
The year saw two major policy decisions which could have short term cost implications-demonetisation of certain high denomination currency; and the passing of the constitutional amendment introducing the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
With respect to demonetisation, the broad consensus view has been that it will create short term costs while paving the way for long term benefits. Noting that India is recovering from the temporary adverse effects of demonetisation, the World Bank has projected a strong 7.20% growth rate for India this year against 6.80% growth in 2016.
GST, the biggest tax reform in India founded on the notion of âOne Nation, One Market, One Taxâ will make India a single market subsuming numerous central and state taxes and ensuring harmony of tax rates across the country.
TREASURY
Hinduja Leyland Finance Limited:
During the year under review, your Company made an investment of RS.13.18 Crores in Hinduja Leyland Finance Limited (âHLFLâ), by subscribing to 16,68,802 equity shares of RS.10/- each offered to the Company on rights basis at a price of RS.79/- per share.
Post the year end, in the month of June, 2017, a further investment of RS.5.23 Crores was made in HLFL by subscribing to 5,56,267 equity shares of RS.10/- each offered to the Company at a price of RS.94/- per share.
After the above subscriptions, the Company holds an aggregate of 2,21,13,959 equity shares of HLFL thereby constituting 5.23% of the enhanced paid-up equity capital of HLFL.
IndusInd Bank Limited:
During the year under review, your Company disinvested an aggregate of 15,57,000 equity shares of RS.10/- each of IndusInd Bank Limited (âIBLâ).
After the above disinvestment, the Company holds 86,68,196 equity shares of RS.10/- each of IBL.
Hinduja Energy (India) Limited:
During the year under review, your Company disinvested 6,11,47,056 equity shares of RS.10/each of Hinduja Energy (India) Limited.
IndusInd Media & Communications Limited:
1. During the year under review, your Company:
a) Acquired 43,03,000 equity shares of RS.10/- each of IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (âIMCLâ) a subsidiary of the Company (constituting 5.82% of the paid-up equity capital of IMCL), at a price of RS.466/- per share from Grant Investrade Limited (âGILâ), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company,
b) Acquired 7,03,60,000 10% Redeemable Cumulative Preference Shares of RS.10/- of IMCL (constituting 26.02% of the paid-up preference capital of IMCL) at par from GIL.
c) Disinvested 11,00,000 equity shares of IMCL
2. IMCL in the month of March, 2017, came out with the issue of 36,953,438 equity shares on rights basis to the existing shareholders. The shares offered to the Company on rights basis by IMCL were renounced in favor of GIL by the Company.
Post rights issue of IMCL, the Companyâs shareholding in IMCL is at 40.28% of the enhanced paid-up equity capital of IMCL. However, the shareholding of the Company in IMCL together with that of GIL is at 68.21% of the enhanced paid-up equity capital of IMCL.
3. In the month of March, 2017, 27,03,60,000 10% Redeemable Cumulative Preference Shares of RS.10/- each held by the Company in IMCL were redeemed by IMCL
Grant Investrade Limited:
During the year under review, 6,34,518 equity shares of RS.10/- each were issued to the Company by Grant Investrade Limited (âGILâ), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company on conversion of 10,00,000 1% Participatory Redeemable Non-Cumulative Preference Shares (âPRNCPSâ) of RS.10/- each held by your Company in GIL.
SUBSIDIARIES
Media: Consolidation of the Media Business:
In order to consolidate the operations in the media segment, the two subsidiaries of the Company in the media segment, IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (âIMCLâ) and Grant Investrade Limited (âGILâ) had filed a Scheme of Arrangement (âSchemeâ) with the Bombay High Court whereby the Head-end-in-the-Sky (âHITSâ) business undertaking of GIL was sought to be de-merged into IMCL. The National Company Law Tribunal (âNCLTâ) has vide its Order dated August 10, 2017 approved the Scheme.
By virtue of this approval and the Scheme coming in to effect from August 21, 2017, the HITS business undertaking of GIL vested into IMCL w.e.f October 01, 2016, being the appointed date.
The results of operations of IMCL for the financial year 2016-17, include the full yearâs operations of the Cable TV business and operations of the HITS business for the period October 01, 2016 to March 31, 2017.
IndusInd Media & Communications Limited:
Post approval of the Scheme, IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (âIMCLâ), subsidiary of the Company, apart from being a leading Multi Systems Operator (âMSOâ) in the Country now also holds a license to provide high quality MPEG4 Cable TV services through the Head-end-in-the-Sky (âHITSâ) platform. It is the only Company in the country to provide Cable TV services both through the traditional fibre technology and the new HITS technology. IMCL will be the only digital distribution platform which will be able to provide high quality digital headend based fibre delivery system and satellite based digital delivery system.
Under the traditional fibre based technology, IMCL receives the broadcastersâ signals at its different headends and transmits the signals through fibre to the Local Cable Operators (âLCOsâ) who connect the last mile to the consumers.
In case of HITS technology, the broadcastersâ signals are received at IMCLsâ Earth Station set up in Noida, from where the signals are uplinked to satellite transponders taken on lease by it and the same are then downlinked by the LCOs at their premises.
The HITS technology reduces significantly the cost of operations and is considered the best value for money technology to cater to the far-flung cities/ towns/villages in the Phase III and Phase IV areas of digitisation. It will also enable fast up-gradation of legacy cable networks at minimal cost in urban areas which has already started.
As per a recent KPMG report, the Television (âTVâ) industry [the segment in which IMCL operates] stands at an estimated INRS.588 billion and is envisaged to register a Compounded Annual Growth Rate of 14.70% to reach INRS.1,166 billion by 2021.
IMCL has been making consistent strides in its expansion plan in the Phase III and Phase IV towns and cities using the HITS platform.
With the successful leveraging of both the Cable and the HITS delivery platforms, IMCL today has:
- a presence in all the States and Union Territories of the Country, most districts and more than 1000 locations addressing far flung cities, towns and villages where Cable TV has had no presence in the past;
- over 750 cities covered in all areas, right from Kargil in Kashmir in the North to Andaman and Nicobar in the deep south and right up to North East border areas of Arunachal & Meghalaya;
- a subscriber base of Over 4 million;
- close to 97% of its customers on prepaid payment mode;
- introduced a Managed Services vertical to cater to such parties who want to use the HITS infrastructure;
- won an award from a cable trade national body for being the first MSO to have introduced prepaid payment system;
- been delivering up to 300 Standard and High Definition channels on In Digital and 525 channels on the HITS platform.
Excellent viewership experience continues to be a primary objective of IMCL and to ensure this, it has, among other steps taken, been constantly upgrading technology, packaging channels to meet the niche requirements of different classes of viewers, investing in acquiring audio & video rights of movies to be provided to the cable operators to be run on local channels and improving its customer responsiveness with respect to service needs and ensuring customer connect and satisfaction.
To achieve its objective of growth in market share with robust customer services, IMCL has put in place a strong sales and support organization structure where the Regional Heads with the help of a network of distributors oversee both existing subscriber base and market expansion and customer service. A variable compensation structure to the distribution network ensures both growth of customers as well as retention of existing customers. A similar variable performance linked structure is being introduced for the IMCL team too.
The sector continues to suffer from lack of transparency in pricing by the Broadcasters and the absence of a well-defined remunerative revenue model for the MSOs. In order to address this long pending problem of the industry, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has come out with a new Tariff Order which is aimed at adequately compensating all the stakeholders in the chain of distribution in the TV signals distribution chain. However some broadcasters have challenged this regulation in the Courts of India. The aforesaid matter is sub-judice in the Madras High Court where judgment has been reserved. The regulation will help in ensuring that MSOs like IMCL are adequately compensated based on a proper revenue and cost structure in the distribution chain.
In order to strengthen its Balance Sheet, IMCL came out with a Rights Issue in the ratio of 1:2 i.e. one share for every two shares held in IMCL. The issue price was RS.205/- per share. The proceeds of the issue were utilized for repaying inter corporate deposits, redemption of redeemable preference shares and general corporate purposes.
Grant Investrade Limited:
Post the demerger of the HITS business undertaking of Grant Investrade Limited (âGILâ) into IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (âIMCLâ), GIL today has two main activities:
- Running movie channels on Cable TV
- Treasury business
With respect to running movie channels on Cable TV, GIL has acquired the rights from IN Entertainment (India) Limited to three channels under the brand name CVO.GIL has successfully run the three channels during the year. In order to contain cost and at the same time ensure quality, GIL has sub-contracted the running of these channels at commercial rates which ensure a good margin to itself.
With respect to its Treasury business, GIL has subscribed to the rights issue made by IMCL by subscribing to the shares renounced in its favour by the Company and also applied for the additional shares of IMCL on rights basis.
SUBSIDIARIES AND JOINT VENTURES
During the year under review, the following companies have ceased to be the subsidiaries/ joint ventures of the Company.
1. Seven Star Information Technology Private Limited w.e.f June 29, 2016.
2. V4U Entertainment Private Limited w.e.f July 12,2016.
3. RMD Baroda Network Private Limited w.e.f March 22, 2017.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 129(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 (âthe Actâ), read with Rule 5 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, a statement containing the salient features of the financial statement of the Companyâs subsidiaries and joint venture companies is provided in Form AOC-1 annexed as Annexure âAâ to this Report.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 136 of the Act, the audited financial statements of the Company including consolidated financial statements alongwith all the relevant documents and separate audited accounts in respect of subsidiaries are available on the website of the Company at the link: http://www.hindujaventures. com/inv/annual_r.html.These documents will also be available for inspection on all working days except Saturday and Sunday and Public Holidays at the Registered Office of the Company.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with the Act and Accounting Standard (AS) 21 on Consolidated Financial Statements read with AS-27 on Financial Reporting of Interest in Joint Ventures, the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements are provided in the Annual Report.
NATURE OF BUSINESS
There was no change in the nature of the business of the Company during the year under review. Your Company continues to be engaged in the business of media, real estate and treasury.
CODE OF CONDUCT
All Board members and Senior Management Personnel have affirmed compliance with the Code of Conduct for the financial Year 2016-17. A declaration to this effect as required under Regulation 26(3) read with Schedule V(D) of the Listing Regulations, from the Whole-Time Director of the Company is annexed as Annexure âBâ to this Report.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION, FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS AND OUTGO
Considering the nature of the business of your Company, there are no particulars to be disclosed relating to the Conservation of Energy, Research and Development and Technology Absorption pursuant to Section 134(3)(m) of the Act during the year under review.
The details of Foreign Exchange Earnings and Outgo are annexed as Annexure âCâ to this Report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
During the year under review, your Company has complied with the Corporate Governance requirements under Listing Regulations. A detailed Report on Corporate Governance as required under Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of the Listing Regulations is annexed as Annexure âDâ to this Report.
A certificate from the Statutory Auditors of the Company certifying that the Company has complied with the conditions of Corporate Governance as required under Schedule V(E) of the Listing Regulations is annexed as Annexure âEâ to this Report.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
Pursuant to Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of the Listing Regulations, a separate Management Discussion and Analysis Report covering a wide range of issues relating to industry trends, Company performance, SWOT analysis, business outlook etc. is annexed as Annexure âFâ to this Report.
PUBLIC DEPOSITS
Your Company has not accepted any deposits from the public with in the meaning of Chapter V of the Act and as such, no amount of principal or interest was outstanding as on the balance sheet date.
INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND THEIR ADEQUACY
Your Company has in place an adequate internal financial control system with reference to financial statements in order to ensure the reliability of financial reporting, safeguarding of assets against loss from unauthorised use or disposition and compliance with company policies, guidelines, procedures, laws and regulations.
Your Company has complied with specific requirements as laid down under Section 134(5)(e) of the Act which calls for establishment and implementation of Internal Financial Control framework that supports compliance with requirements of the Act in relation to the Directorâs Responsibility Statement.
Your Company entrusted the periodic audit to a specialized external audit firm. In addition, the in-house internal audit team also regularly carries out audit. The audit is based on an internal audit plan which is approved by the Audit Committee of the Board. The internal audit is oriented towards the review of internal controls and risks in operations, accounting and finance.
Based on internal audit reports, process owners undertake corrective actions in their respective area and thereby strengthen the controls. The internal audit reports along with corrective actions are discussed with the Management and are reviewed by the Audit Committee of the Board.
Based on its evaluation (as defined in Section 177 of the Act and Regulation 18 of the Listing Regulations), the Audit Committee has concluded that as on March 31, 2017, your Companyâs internal financial controls were adequate and operating effectively.
EXTRACT OF ANNUAL RETURN
The details forming part of the extract of the Annual Return in Form MGT-9 are annexed as Annexure âGâ to this Report.
LOANS, GUARANTEES AND INVESTMENTS
Particulars of loans given, investments made, guarantee given and security provided are given in Note nos. 12 and 17 of the Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Suitable disclosures as required under AS-18 have been made in Note no. 32 of the Notes to the Standalone Financial Statements.
Since all the transactions/ contracts/ arrangements of the nature as specified in Section 188(1) of the Act entered by the Company during the year under review with related party/(ies) are in the ordinary course of business and on an armâs length basis, no particulars in Form AOC-2 have been furnished, as Section 188(1) of the Act is not applicable.
The Related Party Transactions policy as approved by the Board of Directors has been hosted on the Companyâs website at the web link: http://www.hindujaventures.com/inv/pdf/ policy-related-party-transactions.pdf
DIRECTORâS RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Your Directors to the best of the knowledge and belief and according to the information, explanations and representations obtained by them and after due enquiry, make the following statements in terms of Section 134(3)(c) and 134(5) of the Act that:
a) in the preparation of the annual accounts for the year ended March 31, 2017, the applicable accounting standards read with requirements set out under Schedule III to the Act, have been followed and there are no material departures from the same;
b) the Directors have 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 as at March 31, 2017 and of the profit of the Company for the year ended on that date;
c) the Directors have taken proper and sufficient care for the maintenance of adequate accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Act for safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities;
d) the Directors have prepared the annual accounts on a going concern basis;
e) the Directors have laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the Company and that such internal financial controls are adequate and are operating effectively; and
f) the Directors have devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems are adequate and operating effectively.
DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
During the year under review, Mr. Anthony DâSilva (DIN:06404665) resigned as a Director of the Company with effect from the close of business hours of January 30, 2017. The Board placed on record their appreciation for the valuable contribution rendered by Mr. Anthony DâSilva during his tenure as a Director of the Company.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 152(6) of the Act and in terms of the Articles of Association of the Company, Mr. Sudhanshu Tripathi, Director (DIN:06431686) will retire by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and, being eligible, offers himself for re-appointment.
The Independent Directors of your Company have submitted declaration confirming that they meet the criteria of independence as laid down under Section 149(6) of the Act and Regulation16(1)(b) of the Listing Regulations and there has been no change in the circumstances which may affect their status as Independent Director during the year.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 203 of the Act, the Key Managerial Personnel of the Company are Mr. Ashok Mansukhani, Whole- Time Director, Mr. Amar Chintopanth, Chief Financial Officer, and Mr. Hasmukh Shah, Company Secretary. There has been no change in the Key Managerial Personnel of the Company during the year under review.
BOARD MEETINGS HELD DURING THE YEAR
During the year, eight (8) meetings of the Board of Directors were held. The details of the meetings are furnished in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE BOARD, ITS COMMITTEES AND DIRECTORS
Pursuant to the provisions of the Act and Listing Regulations, the Board of Directors have carried out annual performance evaluation of its own performance, the Directors individually as well as the evaluation of the working of its committees. The manner in which the evaluation has been carried out has been explained in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.
COMPANYâS POLICY ON DIRECTORâS APPOINTMENT AND REMUNERATION
The Companyâs policy on Directorâs appointment/ remuneration and other matters provided in Section 178(3) of the Act has been disclosed in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.
COMPOSITION OF AUDIT COMMITTEE
The details pertaining to composition of Audit Committee are included in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.
AUDITORS
Statutory Auditors:
At the Thirtieth Annual General Meeting of the Company held on September 23, 2015, M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, Chartered Accountants (ICAI Firm Registration No. 117366W/ W-100018), were appointed as Statutory Auditors of your Company for a term of five years i.e. from the conclusion of the Thirtieth Annual General Meeting until the conclusion of Thirty Fifth Annual General Meeting of the Company.
In terms of first proviso of Section 139 of the Act, the appointment of the Statutory Auditors of the Company shall be placed for ratification at every Annual General Meeting. Accordingly, the Board of Directors based on the recommendation of Audit Committee recommends the ratification of appointment of M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, Chartered Accountants as Statutory Auditors of the Company from the conclusion of the ensuing Annual General Meeting until the conclusion of next Annual General Meeting.
The Company has received a confirmation from M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, Chartered Accountants that they are not disqualified to act as the Statutory Auditors and are eligible to hold the office as Auditors of the Company.
Necessary resolution for ratification of appointment of the said Auditors is included in the Notice of Annual General Meeting for seeking approval of Members.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 143(12) of the Act, the Statutory Auditors of the Company have not reported any incident of fraud to the Audit Committee during the year under review.
The Auditorâs Report to the Members on the Standalone and Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended March 31, 2017 does not contain any qualifications, reservations or adverse remarks.
Cost Auditors:
In accordance with Section 148 of the Act and rules framed thereunder, the Board of Directors on recommendation of Audit Committee appointed M/s. ABK & Associates, Cost Accountants, (Firm Registration No. 000036), as Cost Auditors of the Company for the financial Year 2017-18 to audit the accounts relating to optic fibre leasing for the financial year ended March 31, 2018. Necessary resolution for ratification of remuneration of the Cost Auditor for the financial Year 2017-18 is placed before the Members for ratification/approval.
Secretarial Auditorâs Report:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Act and Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, Ms. Rupal Jhaveri, a Company Secretary in Whole-Time Practice (CP: 4225) was appointed to undertake Secretarial Audit for the financial Year 2016-17.
The Secretarial Auditorâs Report for the year under review does not contain any qualifications, reservations or adverse remarks and is annexed as Annexure âHâ to this Report.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
One of the five principles of the Company is âWork to Give.â The Company has been contributing towards the well-being of society even before the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (âCSRâ) was institutionalized by the Act.
The Company has made contributions towards the promotion of education amongst the weaker section of society and for promoting healthcare in Jawahar Taluka. These initiatives were taken by the Company through its implementing agency Hinduja Foundation.
During the financial Year 2014-15, the Company in consonance with its CSR objective to promote community healthcare, contributed to implement the CSR project of âUp-gradation of Primary Health Centreâ at village Nandgaon, Taluka Jawhar, Palghar District Maharashtra with a view to improve quality, availability and efficiency of healthcare services in tribal areas.
During the financial Year 2015-16, for providing access to basic healthcare facilitation to poor and under privileged people, the Company made contributions to Hinduja Foundation for its Primary Healthcare Project for Up-gradation of Primary Health Centers and Sub-Centers in Jawahar Taluka, Palghar District, Maharashtra.
The said contributions made by the Company was utilized by Hinduja Foundation during the year under review to develop inter alia the Primary Health Centres (PHCs), old and new toilet blocks, maternity wards so as to provide medical treatments to the population residing in the Jawahar Taluka, Maharashtra.
After the necessary developments, the PHCs were able to obtain ISO 1900 certificate and the center now provides medical treatment to 20,000 people covering 7 sub-centers. On an average, daily 25-30 patients are treated at the primary health centers.
With this the Companyâs CSR objective to promote community healthcare by way of up-gradation of PHCs in Jawahar Taluka was satisfactorily attained.
During the financial Year 2016-17, the Company has contributed RS.60 Lakhs to Hinduja Foundation towards Rural Development in Jawahar Taluka, Maharashtra for implementing a project on livelihood, sanitation and providing drinking water.
The objective of the Hinduja Foundationâs Rural Development Project in Jawhar is to enhance the livelihood of the project participant communities through a 3600 farm based interventions in the form of improved agriculture practices, Wadi tree based farming, support to landless and women headed families, and bring about improvement in their quality of life through income generation and development of model villages, enhanced health and sanitation facilities, water resource management, up-gradation of educational facilities, empowerment of women and development of the village infrastructure.
The composition of the CSR Committee and annual report on CSR activities in terms of the requirements of Sections 134(3)(o) and 135 of the Act read with the Rule 8 and 9 of the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014 is annexed as Annexure -âIâ to this Report. The CSR Policy is available on the website of the Company viz www.hindujaventures.com.
WHISTLE BLOWER / VIGIL MECHANISM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 177(9) of the Act read with Rule 7 of the Companies (Meetings of Board and its Powers) Rules, 2014 and Regulation 22 of the Listing Regulations, the Board of Directors had approved a policy on Whistle Blower / Vigil Mechanism and the same is uploaded on the website of the Company at the link: http://www. hindujaventures. com/en/inv/pdf/ whistleblower-policy-vigil-mechanism.pdf.
The mechanism enables the directors and employees to report their genuine concerns about unethical behavior, actual or suspected fraud or violation of the Companyâs code of conduct and also assures to provide adequate safeguards against victimization of the concerned director or employee. The employees and other stakeholders have direct access to the Chairperson of the Audit Committee for lodging concerns, if any, for review.
Your Company affirms that no director/ employee has been denied access to the Chairperson of the Audit Committee and that no complaints were received during the year.
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
The risk management policy of the Company lays down the risk strategy of the Company and helps in determining the risk factor, categorizing the various forms of risks affecting the companyâs strategic and financial goals and modes to manage such risks.
The Company, in the backdrop of this policy, identifies the risk/ threats affecting or likely to affect the Company and accordingly implement measures to limit the impact of such risk, wherever found feasible and provide update to the Board of Directors in compliance with the policy during the year.
Further details on risk management are provided in Management Discussion and Analysis Section which form part of this Report.
CREDIT RATING
During the year under review, Brickwork Ratings India Private Limited, a credit rating agency has assigned BWR A1 Rating to the Bank Loan facilities availed by the Company.
Instruments with this rating are considered to have very strong degree of safety regarding timely payment of financial obligations and carry lowest credit risk.
PREVENTION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Your Company has zero tolerance for sexual harassment at workplace and has adopted a policy on Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment at Workplace (âPPRSHâ) in line with provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 and rules thereunder. An Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) has been set up to redress complaints received regarding sexual harassment. All employees (permanent, temporary and trainees) are covered under this policy.
No concerns have been raised under PPRSH during the financial year 2016-17.
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Your Company has, on a continuous basis, endeavored to increase awareness among its stakeholders and in the market place about the Companyâs strategy, new developments and financial performance as per rules laid down by the Regulatory Authorities like SEBI etc.
EMPLOYEES PARTICULARS AND RELATED DISCLOSURES
Disclosures pertaining to remuneration and other details as required under Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 is annexed as Annexure âJâ to this Report.
The details of the employee who was in receipt of the remuneration amounting to the limits stipulated in Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(2)(i) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 is annexed as Annexure âKâ to this Report.
Any shareholder interested in obtaining the details of the remuneration drawn by the senior level employees as required under Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(2) and Rule 5(3) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 may write to the Company Secretary at the Registered Office of the Company. The said information is available for inspection by the Members at the Registered Office of the Company on any working day of the Company up to the date of the Thirty Second Annual General Meeting.
GENERAL DISCLOSURES
1) No significant or material orders were passed by any Regulator or Court or Tribunal, which can have an impact on the going concern status and the Companyâs operations in future.
2) There are no material changes and commitments that have occurred between the end of the financial year of the Company and the date of this Report.
3) The Whole-Time Director of the Company does not receive any remuneration or commission from any of its subsidiaries.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Your Board of Directors takes this opportunity to thank the Companyâs employees, customers, vendors, business partners, members and bankers for the faith reposed in the Company and also to thank various regulatory authorities and agencies for their support and looks forward to their continued encouragement.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors
Place: Mumbai Ashok P. Hinduja
Date : August 23, 2017 Executive Chairman
Mar 31, 2015
Dear Members,
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the Thirtieth Annual Report
and CompanyÂs Audited Financial Statements for the financial year
ended March 31,2015.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
(Rs. in Crores)
Consolidated
For the year ended March 31 2015 2014
Total Income 786.11 773.49
Total Expenses 816.23 871.52
(Loss) / Profit before tax (30.12) (98.03)
Exceptional/Extraordinary Items 6.20 -
(Loss) / Profit before tax (36.32) (98.03)
Provision for tax (incl. deferred tax) 27.47 (41.43)
(Loss) / Profit after tax (63.79) (56.60)
Minority Interest (82.05) (56.80)
Profit After Minority Interest 18.26 0.20
Standalone
For the year ended March 31 2015 2014
Total Income 110.45 106.54
Total Expenses 17.13 19.01
(Loss) / Profit before tax 93.32 87.53
Exceptional/Extraordinary Items - -
(Loss) / Profit before tax 93.32 87.53
Provision for tax (incl. deferred tax) 0.73 5.50
(Loss) / Profit after tax 92.59 82.03
Minority Interest - -
Profit After Minority Interest 92.59 82.03
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS AND STATE OF AFFAIRS:
On a Consolidated basis, total income for the financial year 2014-15 at
Rs. 786.11 Crores was higher by 1.63% over last year (Rs. 773.49 Crores
in 2013-14). Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and
amortisation (EBITDA) was Rs. 146.75 Crores registering growth of 1.83%
over EBITDA of Rs.144.11 Crores in 2013-14. Net profit after tax and
minority interest increased to Rs.18.26 Crores from Rs. 0.20 Crores
during 2013-14.
On Standalone basis, total income for the financial year 2014-15 at Rs.
110.45 Crores was higher by 3.67% over last year (Rs. 106.54 Crores in
2013- 14).Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation
(EBITDA) was Rs. 94.78 Crores registering a growth of 5.26% over EBITDA
of Rs. 90.04 Crores in 2013-14. Profit after tax (PAT) increased by
12.88% to Rs. 92.59 Crores over PAT of Rs. 82.03 Crores in 2013-14.
DIVIDEND:
Your Directors have declared interim dividend of Rs. 15 per Equity
Share (150 % Dividend on face value of Rs. 10/- per Equity Share) for
financial year 2014-15 which has been paid. Your Directors have
recommended interim dividend as the final dividend for the financial
year 2014-15. The interim dividend involving a cash outflow of Rs.
37.00 Crores including Dividend Distribution Tax, representing 39.96%
of the current year earnings.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES:
An amount of Rs. 9.26 Crores was transferred to the General Reserve and
an amount of Rs. 542.08 Crores has been carried forward as Balance in
the Statement of Profit and Loss.
REVIEW OF INDIAN ECONOMY:
The fiscal year 2014-15 has been a year of change, a year of high
expectations and a year of mixed results for the Indian economy.
Initial estimates for fiscal year 2014 (ending March 31, 2015) by the
Government show that economic growth accelerated to 7.4%. A more robust
economic performance as compared to earlier estimates emerged from
revised data based on an updated base year, wider coverage of goods and
services, and the inclusion of tax data to estimate economic activity.
Monthly industrial production estimates indicate a more modest upturn.
The production of capital goods expanded after three years in the red.
However, consumer durables continued to decline. Improved coal
production helped double the growth of electricity generation over the
previous yearÂs rate.
International Monetary Fund has projected that India will overtake China
as the fastest growing emerging economy in 2015-16 by clocking a growth
rate of 7.5%, helped by its recent policy initiatives, pick-up in
investments and lower oil prices. World Bank too has similar GDP growth
forecast for India for the current fiscal year.
These estimates are largely based on IndiaÂs economy now being on a
cyclical upswing and forward-looking indicators suggest domestic demand
is gathering momentum. Low inflation has enabled the Reserve Bank of
India to cut interest rates easing pressure on the private sector.
Lower rates as well as the governmentÂs infrastructure and
disinvestment programs should provide a boost to domestic-oriented
industries. The dampener to these growth expectations could be the
monsoons.
Overall therefore, the economy is expected to do better in fiscal year
2016 compared to fiscal year 2015.
INVESTMENTS:
Hinduja Energy (India) Limited (HEIL):
India is the fifth largest producer and consumer of electricity in the
world, after China, US, Russia and Japan. Power generation has grown
more than 100 fold since independence, while demand growth has been
even higher due to accelerated economic activity. The total installed
capacity in the country crossed 270 GW, out of which over 69% is
thermal power generation capacity. Private sector contributes over 35%
of this capacity while rest belongs to central as well as state
utilities. Emphasis is being given by the new Government on assured
fuel availability and incentives are being given for renewable energy
sector.
Hinduja National Power Corporation LimitedÂs (a Subsidiary of HEIL)
Greenfield 1040 MW Thermal Power Project in Visakhapatnam is expected
to get commissioned in FY 2015-16 thus creating value for its investors
from this year onwards.
SUBSIDIARIES:
Media:
Grant Investrade Limited (GIL):
GIL has embarked on a project for setting up infrastructure to provide
services under the Headend- in-the-Sky (HITS) platform to the Cable TV
industry. The Company has now got all its approvals from the
Government of India, which includes mainly from Ministry of Information
& Broadcasting (MIB) and Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for the
HITS platform.
The brand name of the "Headend-in-the-Sky " (HITS) services to be
provided by GIL is 'NXT DigitalÂ.
HITS is a satellite multiplex service that provides cable channels to
cable television operations. The HITS service effectively replaces the
more complex traditional headend (A headend is a local operations center
that receives, process and retransmits TV channels and other services)
operations. At a traditional cable television headend, multitudes of
satellite dishes and antennae are used to grab cable stations from
dozens of communication satellites. In contrast, HITS combines cable
stations (or TV channels) into multiplex signals on one or a few
satellites. Cable networks can then pull in hundreds of channels at the
local headend with relatively little equipment for onward digital
distribution to subscriber homes.
HITS as a concept was developed to deliver signals to small cable
headends that did not find it viable to install their own Conditional
Access Systems (CAS) and centralized services like SMS and billing.
At the same time, the HITS platform delivers a huge number of pay
television channels. This provides the HITS end consumer the largest
possible choice of pay channels. This exactly is the need of the cable
operators in the smaller towns constituting the Phase III & IV
locations for the digitalisation program. GIL believes that the entire
expansion in the Phase III & IV cities for digitalisation can best be
addressed through the HITS technology owing to the superior technology,
cost effectiveness as compared to the traditional methods of
transmitting signals through fibre, low investment in capital equipment
by the cable operators and at the same time world class quality of
service is ensured for the consumers.
The total size of Phase III & IV market is approximately 100 million
homes of which GIL expects to cover atleast 10 million in the next two
years, especially in Phase III.
IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (IMCL):
As per a recent KPMG report, "digitalisation has changed the role of
MSOs from being a B2B service provider to a B2C service provider and it
is taking time for MSOs to build internal processes to reflect this
change in business model. " In line with the above trend, after having
successfully implemented digitalisation in Phase I & II cities during
the financial years 2012-13, 2013-14 and in the fiscal year 2014-15,
IMCLÂs focus is on providing better consumer service and
simultaneously bring in efficiency in operations.
The Company has achieved this by taking various steps like packaging of
channels so that consumer get to choose and pay for what they view;
providing the consumer with the option of making payments either through
pre-paid or post paid mechanisms; improving turnaround time for
attending to consumer complaints, etc. These steps have yielded good
results through improved customer satisfaction, improved Average Revenue
Per User (ARPU), improved collections and cost efficiencies.
IMCL is now taking steps to expand in the Phase III & IV digitalisation
program. Phase III digitalisation deadline is December 31, 2015 and
Phase IV is December 31,2016. This expansion will have very little
investment requirement, as IMCL will rely on the HITS platform provided
by GIL, a fellow subsidiary Company for the launch, both with respect
to the headend equipment and the set top boxes. For this purpose, IMCL
has entered into an MoU with GIL for provision of passive white label
infrastructure services. This will enable IMCL to upgrade its consumer
base to a very high level of sophisticated digital video services at
very minimum cost.
With a combination of improvement in operating efficiencies as
mentioned above and an expansion in the next digitalisation program,
IMCL, has passed over the difficult period it encountered in the past
two years and is now on the road to recovery. With a mix of
conventional DAS and HITS backend, IMCL expects to cover approximately
5 million homes in next two years.
IN ENTERTAINMENT (INDIA) LIMITED (INEL):
Digitisation has paved way for niche content platforms to monetize
their reach and value. INEL is being restructured to harness this
opportunity. CVO, In Digital Classic, In Digital Music are being
restructured on account of programming, on-air packaging, reach and
sales to take its rightful place in the Industry. Inorganic
acquisitions will enable creating a good mix of in house channels to
feed the HITS and DAS platforms.
Teleshopping business also is being restructured to improve product
line, bring in cash-and-carry model and generate orders from relevant
media. A multi-level e-commerce business model is being developed.
Digitisation of CATV Industry and HITS project present a significant
opportunity to further growth of content business of INEL.
FUTURE OUTLOOK - MEDIA & CABLE TV SECTOR:
In the calendar year 2014, the Indian Media and Entertainment (M&E)
Industry grew by 11.7% to reach INR 1026 Billion. It is expected to grow
at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.9% in next 5 years to
reach a value of INR 1964 Billions.
2014 has been a turning point for the Media and Entertainment Industry
in India in many ways. With the current governmentÂs optimistic
outlook, business sentiment has been positive and strengthened by a
number of growth promoting policies. In the media sector, digital media
continued its rapid growth, indicated by 44.5% growth in digital
advertising in 2014.
In Television, advertising saw strong growth, driven by the positive
shift in macroeconomic environment, the general election spends, and
emergence of e-commerce as a significant new advertising spender.
The Print sector, although remaining highly fragmented, witnessed a
rise in the circulation revenue on the back of rising cover prices and
subscriptions.
TELEVISION INDUSTRY:
In 2014, the TV industry grew by 13.8% to reach INR 474.9 Billion. It
is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.5% to reach INR 975 Billion by 2019
on the backs of increasing number of subscribers, higher ARPUs due to
digitisation, and higher advertisement revenues.
Despite the introduction of Digital Addressable System (DAS), the
anticipated improvement in addressability, improvement in subscription
revenue and more equitable sharing of subscription revenue are being
realized at a slow pace.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has extended the
deadlines for the implementation of DAS in Phase III and Phase IV to
December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2016, respectively. DAS rollout in
Phase III and IV is expected to be more challenging on account of
larger geographical spread, funding requirements and low potential for
ARPUs.
HITS (Headend-in-the-Sky) technology and collaboration between larger
MSOs and regional MSOs are expected to play important roles for MSOs in
grabbing maximum share of the market in Phase III and IV. Challenges
from DTH platforms and integrated telecom service providers with deep
pockets will have to be faced with innovative consumer friendly cable
services utilizing both the traditional MSO networks and the HITS
platform.
AMALGAMATION OF IDL SPECIALITY CHEMICALS LIMITED WITH THE COMPANY:
The Board of Directors of your Company has approved the Scheme of
Amalgamation of IDL Speciality Chemicals Limited, a wholly owned
subsidiary with your Company at its meeting held on April 24, 2015. The
Scheme envisages resulting in consolidation of the business in one
entity and strengthening the position of merged entity by enabling it
to harness and optimize the synergies of the two companies. Once the
scheme is approved, there will be an increase in the trading stock of a
listed share in the banking sphere and a significant increase in the
land bank for the two metros of Hyderabad and Bengaluru.
Your Company has received observation letters from BSE Limited and
National Stock Exchange of India Limited vide letters No. DCS/AMAL/
CS/24(f)/102/2015-2016 dated July 17, 2015 and NSE/LIST/34175 dated
July 17, 2015 respectively in respect of the scheme. Your Company has
filed the scheme in the High Court of Judicature at Bombay on July 23,
2015. The HonÂble High Court, Bombay vide its order dated July 31,
2015 has directed for Court Convened Meeting of the members of the
Company to be held on September 01,2015. The appointed date for the
Scheme is April 01,2015.
PERFORMANCE AND FINANCIAL POSITION OF THE SUBSIDIARIES:
Report on the performance and financial position of the subsidiaries
has been provided in Form AOC-1 annexed as Annexure "A " to this
report.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 136 of the Companies Act, 2013 (
"the Act "), the financial statements of the Company including
consolidated financial statements along with relevant documents and
separate audited accounts in respect of subsidiaries are available on
the website of the Company www.hindujaventures.com
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
In accordance with the Act and Accounting Standard AS-21 on
Consolidated Financial Statements read with Accounting Standard AS-23
on Accounting for Investments in Associates and AS-27 on Financial
Reporting of Interest in Joint Ventures, the audited Consolidated
Financial Statements are provided in the Annual Report.
NATURE OF BUSINESS:
The Company is engaged in Media, Investment, Treasury and Real Estate.
There was no change in the nature of the business of the Company during
the year under review.
WHOLE-TIME DIRECTOR (WTD) AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)
CERTIFICATION:
The Whole-Time Director (WTD) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Certification as required under Clause 49(IX) of the Listing Agreement
and the Whole-Time DirectorÂs declaration about the code of conduct
are furnished in Annexure "B " and Annexure "C " to this report.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION, FOREIGN EXCHANGE
EARNINGS AND OUTGO:
Considering the nature of the business of your Company, there are no
particulars to be disclosed relating to the Conservation of Energy,
Research and Development & Technology Absorption pursuant to Section
134(3)(m) of the Act during the year under review.
The details of Foreign Exchange Earnings and outgo are given in
Annexure "D " to this report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE:
As required under Clause 49 of the Listing Agreement, a detailed Report
on Corporate Governance is annexed as Annexure "E " to this report.
The Statutory Auditors of your Company have examined the CompanyÂs
compliance with regulations and have certified the same as required
under the Listing Agreement. The certificate is annexed as Annexure "F
" to this report.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS REPORT:
Pursuant to Clause 49 of the Listing Agreement, a separate Management
Discussion and Analysis Report covering a wide range of issues relating
to industry trends, Company performance, SWOT analysis, business
outlook etc. is annexed as Annexure "G " to this report.
PUBLIC DEPOSITS:
Your Company has not accepted any deposits from the public within the
meaning of Chapter V of the Act and as such, no amount of principal or
interest was outstanding as on the balance sheet date.
INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND ITS ADEQUACY:
The Company maintains an adequate system of internal financial control
with reference to financial statements, to ensure that all assets are
safeguarded against loss from unauthorised use or disposition.
Company policies, guidelines and procedures are in place to ensure that
all transactions are authorised, recorded and reported correctly.
EXTRACT OF ANNUAL RETURN:
The details forming part of the extract of the Annual Return in Form
MGT-9 is annexed herewith as Annexure "H " to this report.
LOANS, GUARANTEES AND INVESTMENTS:
Details of the loans, guarantees and investments covered under the
provisions of Section 186 of the Act are given in Note 15 of the Notes
to Financial Statements.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:
All transactions entered by the Company with the related parties were
in ordinary course of business and were on armÂs length pricing
basis.
During the year, the Company has not entered into any contract /
arrangement / transaction with related parties which could be
considered material in accordance with the policy of the Company on
materiality of related party transactions. Suitable disclosures as
required under AS-18 have been made in Note 29 of the Notes to the
Financial Statement.
Since all the transactions/ contracts/ arrangements of the nature as
specified in Section 188(1) of the Act entered by the Company during
the year under review with related party/(ies) are in the ordinary
course of business and on armÂs length basis, no particulars in Form
AOC-2 is furnished as Section 188(1) of the Act is not applicable.
The Related Party Transactions policy as approved by the Board is
disclosed on CompanyÂs Website at the web link:
http://www.hindujaventures.com/
en/inv/pdf/policy-related-party-transactions.pdf
DIRECTORÂS RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT:
Your Directors to the best of the knowledge and belief and according to
the information, explanation and representation obtained by them and
after due enquiry, make the following statements in terms of Section
134(3)(c) and 134(5) of the Companies Act, 2013:
i. that in the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicable
accounting standards had been followed along with proper explanation
relating to material departures;
ii. that appropriate accounting policies have been selected and applied
consistently and made judgments and estimates that are reasonable and
prudent have been made so as to give a true and fair view of the state
of affairs of your Company as on March 31, 2015 and of the profit of the
Company for the year ended March 31,2015;
iii. that proper and sufficient care to the best of their knowledge and
ability has been taken for the maintenance of adequate accounting
records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013
for safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and
detecting fraud and other irregularities;
iv. that the annual accounts have been prepared on going concern
basis;
v. that proper internal financial controls were in place and that the
financial controls were adequate and were operating effectively; and
vi. that systems to ensure compliance with provisions of all
applicable laws were in place and were adequate and operating
effectively.
DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL:
The following directors have resigned from the Board of the Company:
1. Mr. Hemraj Asher (DIN: 00024863), Independent Director with effect
from June 05,2014.
2. Mr. Ravi Mansukhani (DIN: 00155193), Alternate Director to Ms. Vinoo
Hinduja with effect from August 12, 2014.
3. Ms. Vinoo Hinduja (DIN: 00493148) with effect from January 30,
2015.
4. Mr. Prakash Shah (DIN: 00120671), Independent Director with effect
from the close of business hours of April 24, 2015.
The Board places on record its appreciation for the valuable
contribution and guidance provided by Mr. Hemraj Asher, Mr. Ravi
Mansukhani, Ms. Vinoo Hinduja and Mr. Prakash Shah.
At the ensuing Annual General Meeting of the Company to be held on
September 23, 2015, Mr. Ramkrishan P. Hinduja, (Director) will retire
by rotation. Mr. Ramkrishan P. Hinduja has not offered himself for
re-appointment due to understandable pre-occupations and the vacancy
caused by retirement by rotation of Mr. Ramkrishan P. Hinduja, will not
be filled up at the ensuing Annual General Meeting to be held on
September 23, 2015 or any adjournment thereof. The Board places on
record its appreciation for valuable contributions made by him during
his tenure.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 161(1) of Companies Act,
2013 ( "the Act ") and Article 124 of the Articles of Association of the
Company, Mr. Prashant Asher (DIN: 00274409), Ms. Bhumika Batra (DIN:
03502004) and Mr. Sudhanshu Tripathi (DIN: 06431686) were appointed as
Additional Directors with effect from September 23, 2014; March 11,2015
and August 04, 2015 respectively.
The Company has received a notice under Section 160 of the Act along
with the requisite deposits proposing the appointment of Mr. Prashant
Asher, Ms. Bhumika Batra and Mr. Sudhanshu Tripathi and the resolutions
seeking the approval of the Members for appointment of Mr. Prashant
Asher, Ms. Bhumika Batra and Mr. Sudhanshu Tripathi have been
incorporated in the notice of forthcoming Annual General Meeting of the
Company along with the brief details about them.
Appointment of Mr. Prashant Asher and Ms. Bhumika Batra as Independent
Directors pursuant to Section 149 and 152 of the Act and Clause 49 of
the Listing Agreement are proposed to be made at the forthcoming Annual
General Meeting for a term of consecutive five (5) years on
non-rotational basis. The Company has received declaration from the
said Directors that they meet the criteria for independence in terms of
Section 149(6) of the Act.
Mr. Anil Harish (DIN: 00001685) and Mr. Rajendra P. Chitale (DIN:
00015986) who were appointed as Independent Directors for a term of
five (5) years at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on
September 22, 2014 have submitted declaration that each of them meets
the criteria of independence as laid down under Section 149(6) of the
Act and Clause 49 of the Listing Agreement and there has been no change
in the circumstances which may affect their status as Independent
Director during the year.
The Board of Directors at its meeting held on January 30, 2015
re-appointed Mr. Ashok Mansukhani as Whole-Time Director pursuant to
Section 196, 197, 203 and Schedule V of the Act for a period of three
years with effect from April 30, 2015 to April 29, 2018. The resolution
of re-appointment of Mr. Ashok Mansukhani and payment of remuneration
for a period of three years with effect from April 30, 2015 to April
29, 2018 were approved by the members by postal ballot/e-voting on June
22, 2015.
Mr. Amar Chintopanth was appointed as a Chief Financial Officer of the
Company under Section 203 of the Act with effect from August 12, 2014.
Mr. Hasmukh Shah was appointed as a Company Secretary of the Company
under Section 203 of the Act with effect from January 1, 2015. Further,
Mr. Amit Vyas, Company Secretary of the Company has resigned with effect
from December 12, 2014.
Accordingly, Mr. Ashok Mansukhani, Whole-Time Director, Mr. Amar
Chintopanth, Chief Financial Officer and Mr. Hasmukh Shah, Company
Secretary were designated as "Key Managerial Personnel " of the
Company.
BOARD MEETINGS HELD DURING THE YEAR:
During the year, Six (6) meetings of the Board of Directors were held.
The details of the meetings are furnished in the Corporate Governance
Report which is attached as Annexure "E " to this Report.
BOARD EVALUATION:
The Nomination and Remuneration Committee at its meeting held on
November 13, 2014 laid down the criteria for performance evaluation of
Independent Directors.
The Board of Directors has carried out an annual evaluation of its own
performance, committees and individual directors pursuant to the
provision of the Act and under Clause 49 of Listing Agreement.
The Nomination and Remuneration Committee and the Board while reviewing
the performance of the Independent Directors, deliberated upon certain
criteria such as commitment and guidance, advice and valuable inputs,
expertise and knowledge.
The performance of the Board as a whole was reviewed by the Independent
Directors relying upon the following parameters:
1) Presentation of detailed vs Key information necessary;
2) Information on financial and operational performance of the Company;
3) Information on Business environment;
4) Board debate and discussion and
5) Board leadership.
In a separate meeting of Independent Directors, performance of
Non-Independent Directors, performance of the Board as a Whole and
performance of the Chairman was evaluated, taking in to account the
views of Executive Directors and Non-Executive Directors. The same was
discussed in the board meeting at which the performance of the Board,
its Committees and individual directors was also discussed.
COMPANYÂS POLICY ON DIRECTORÂS APPOINTMENT AND REMUNERATION:
The CompanyÂs policy on DirectorÂs appointment and remuneration and
other matter provided in Section 178(3) of the Act has been disclosed
in the Corporate Governance Report, which forms part of the BoardÂs
Report.
COMPOSITION OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
The details pertaining to composition of Audit Committee are included
in the Corporate Governance Report, which forms part of this report.
AUDITORS:
Statutory Auditors:
M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, Chartered Accountants (ICAI Firm
Registration No. 117366W/W-100018), the Statutory Auditors of your
Company, retire at the conclusion of the forthcoming Annual General
Meeting of the Company and being eligible offer themselves for
re-appointment as per Section 139 of the Act. M/s. Deloitte Haskins &
Sells LLP have expressed their willingness to be re-appointed as
Statutory Auditors of the Company and has furnished a certificate for
their eligibility and consent under Section 141 of the Act and rules
framed thereunder. The Board, based on the recommendation of the Audit
Committee recommends the appointment of M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells
LLP as Statutory Auditors of the Company for a period of five years.
The Auditors Report to the Shareholders for the year under review does
not contain any qualification.
Cost Auditors:
In accordance with Section 148 of the Act and rules framed there under,
the Board of Directors on recommendation of Audit Committee appointed
M/s. ABK & Associates, Cost Accountants, (Firm Registration No.000036)
as Cost Auditors of the Company for the financial year 2015-2016 to
audit the accounts relating to telecommunication activity for the
financial year ended March 31, 2016 and has recommended their
remuneration to the Shareholders for their ratification at the ensuing
Annual General Meeting.
The Audit Committee has also received a certificate from Cost Auditor
certifying their independence and armÂs length relationship with the
Company.
Secretarial AuditorÂs Report:
The Board has appointed Ms. Rupal Jhaveri, Company Secretaries in
Whole-time Practice (CP: 4225), to carry out Secretarial Audit under the
provisions of Section 204 of the Act and the Companies (Appointment and
Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 for the financial year
2014-2015. The Secretarial Audit Report is annexed as Annexure "I " to
this report.
The Secretarial Audit Report for the year under review does not contain
any qualification.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:
Your Company in financial year 2012-13
considering its objective to promote education through Hinduja
Foundation, provided financial support to meritorious scholars from the
economically weaker section of society to enable them to study and
complete their first graduation.
Your Company in financial year 2013-14
considering its objective to promote community healthcare through
Hinduja Foundation provided much needed healthcare facility in tribal
areas of Thane. The Child Development Services Programme of Government
of India has served over 19,247 people and trained more than 15
teachers and over 6,000 children in hygiene and preventive care.
For financial year 2014-15 considering its objective to promote
community healthcare, Rs. 40,10,000 has been contributed to implement
HVL CSR project of Upgradation of Primary Health Centres.
Hinduja Foundation is collaborating with Additional Collector at
Jawahar for Upgrading Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Basic Health
Centres (BHCs) there by strengthening health services in the rural and
tribal communities, thus creating a role model project for public
private partnership. These PHCs and BHCs are being strengthened in
collaboration with the Govt. Health Department.
The Composition of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Committee
and the brief outline of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Policy of the Company and the initiatives undertaken by the Company on
CSR activities during the year are set out in Annexure "J " to this
report in the format prescribed in the Companies (Corporate Social
Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014. The policy is available on the
website of the Company i.e. www.hindujaventures.com.
VIGIL MECHANISM/ WHISTLE BLOWER:
In Compliance with Section 177(9) of the Act read with Rule 7 of the
Companies (Meetings of Board and its Powers) Rules, 2014 and Clause 49
of the Listing Agreement, the Board of Directors had approved Vigil
Mechanism/ Whistle Blower Policy and the same is uploaded on the
website of the Company. This Policy inter-alia provides a direct access
to the Chairman of the Audit Committee.
The mechanism enables the Directors and employees to report their
genuine concerns about unethical behavior, actual or suspected fraud or
violation of the companyÂs code of conduct and assures to provide
adequate safeguard against victimization of the concerned director or
employee.
Your Company hereby affirms that no Director/ employee has been denied
access to the Chairman of the Audit Committee and that no complaints
were received during the year.
The policy on Vigil Mechanism/ Whistle Blower is available on the
CompanyÂs website at the
link:http://www.hindujaventures.com/en/inv/pdf/
whistleblower-policy-vigil-mechanism.pdf
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY:
The Company has formulated a risk management policy so as to identify,
quantify and manage all risk and opportunities that may affect the
achievement of entityÂs strategic and financial goals.
Risk Management within the organization involves reviewing the
operations of the organization, identifying potential threats to the
organization and the likelihood of their occurrence, and then taking
appropriate actions to address the most likely threats.
These risks include but are not limited to financial, legal and
operational risk and risks concerning the CompanyÂs reputation and
ethical standards.
The key risk factors identified by the Company include but are not
limited to the following areas:
* Economic Environment and Market conditions
* Political environment
* Technological obsolescence
* Financial reporting risks
* Finance risk
* Fluctuations in Foreign Exchange
* Legal and Compliance Risk
* Human resource management
The Company strives to mitigate the risk by avoiding risk, transferring
risk, reducing risk and retaining the risk.
DISCLOSURE UNDER THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE
(PREVENTION, PROHIBITION AND REDRESSAL) ACT, 2013:
The Company has in place an Anti Sexual Harassment Policy in line with
the requirements of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. Internal Complaints
Committee (ICC) has been set up to redress complaints received regarding
sexual harassment. All employees (permanent, temporary, trainees) are
covered under this policy.
The following is a summary of sexual harassment complaints received and
disposed off during the year 2014-2015:
* No. of complaints received - Nil
* No. of complaints disposed off - Nil
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS:
Your Company has on a continuous basis, endeavored to increase
awareness among its stakeholders and in the market place about the
CompanyÂs strategy, new developments and financial performance as per
rules laid down by the Regulatory Authority like SEBI etc.
EMPLOYEES PARTICULARS AND RELATED DISCLOSURES:
Disclosures pertaining to remuneration and other details as required
under Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies
(Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 is
annexed as Annexure "K " and "L " to this report.
GENERAL DISCLOSURES:
1. No significant or material orders were passed by any Regulator or
Court or Tribunal, which can have an impact on the going concern status
and the CompanyÂs operations in future.
2. There are no material changes and commitments that have occurred
between the end of the financial year of the Company and the date of
this report.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
Your Board takes this opportunity to thank the CompanyÂs employees,
customers, vendors, business partners, shareholders and bankers for the
faith reposed in the Company and also to thank various regulatory
authorities and agencies for their support and looks forward to their
continued encouragement.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors
Place : Mumbai Ashok P. Hinduja
Date : August 4, 2015 Executive Chairman
Annexure "E " to the Boards Report
Mar 31, 2014
To the Members,
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the Directors'' Report for
the year ended 31st March 2014 and the Twenty-Nineth Annual Report of
your Company.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
(Rs in Lacs)
Consolidated
For the year ended 31st March 2014 2013
Total Income 77,348.60 70,196.16
Total Expenses 87,152.00 58,737.74
(Loss) / Profit before tax (9,803.40) 11,458.42
Provision for tax (incl. deferred tax) 4,143.70 2,784.17
(Loss) / Profit after tax (5,659.70) 8,674.25
Minority Interest (5,679.79) 652.03
Profit After Minority Interest 20.09 8,022.22
Standalone
For the year ended 31st March 2014 2013
Total Income 10,653.86 9,452.42
Total Expenses 1,900.93 1,101.03
(Loss) / Profit before tax 8,752.93 8,351.39
Provision for tax (incl. deferred tax) 549.96 676.81
(Loss) / Profit after tax 8,202.97 7,674.58
Minority Interest  Â
Profit After Minority Interest 8,202.97 7,674.58
REVIEW OF INDIAN ECONOMY
As per the Monetary Policy Statement of Reserve Bank of India for
2014-15, ''Real'' GDP growth is expected to pick up from a little below
5% in 2013-14 to a range of 5% to 6% in 2014-15 though with downside
risks to the central estimate of 5.5%. Easing of domestic supply
bottlenecks and progress on the implementation of stalled projects
already cleared should contribute to growth and stronger anticipated
export growth as the world economy picks up. Despite some positive
movement in more recent data, industrial activity continues to be a
drag on the economy, with retrenchment in both consumption and
investment demand refected in the contraction of output of consumer
durables as well as capital goods. Indian ratings maintains a stable
outlook on state government finances, as it expects consolidated state
finances to remain resilient to the ongoing economic slowdown. Uncertain
forecast of Monsoon and erratic rains could be a dampener.
REVIEW OF FINANCIALS
On a Consolidated basis, your Company registered a growth of 10.19% in
income to reach R 77,348.60 Lacs from R 70,196.16 Lacs during the year.
EBIDTA decreased from R 22,713.60 Lacs to R 14,410.90 Lacs. Net Profit
after Taxes and Minority Interest reduced from R 8,022.22 Lacs to R
20.09 Lacs.
The Standalone results refect a strong performance buoyed by Treasury
gains. Total Income grew by 12.71% from R 9,452.52 Lacs to R 10,653.86
Lacs. Net Profit after Tax grew by 6.88% from R 7,674.58 Lacs to R
8,202.97 Lacs.
DIVIDEND
The Board is pleased to recommend Dividend payment of R 15/- per Equity
Share (150% Dividend on face value of R 10/- per Equity Share) for
financial year 2013-14. The current year Dividend will result in a
payout of R 3,607.34 Lacs including Dividend Distribution Tax,
representing 43.98% of the current year earnings.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
The Company proposes to transfer R 820.30 Lacs to the General Reserve
as required under Transfer to General Reserve Rules and to carry
forward an amount of R 49,574.80 Lacs as Balance in the Statement of
Profit and Loss.
REAL ESTATE
The Company continues to pursue its efforts in seeking clearance for
the development of its real estate in Bengaluru including attending the
legal suits related to title in respect of 47.2 acres land. Your
company has obtained an order of temporary injunction restraining Mr.
Bharat Patel and his agents/men from alienating or in any way
encumbering the property at Devanahalli.
Your Company through IDL Speciality Chemicals Ltd. a wholly owned
subsidiary had acquired 4.75 acres of land in Hyderabad at a price of R
5.00 crores per acre. As of 31st March 2014, the reckoner rate of land
stands as R 12.00 crores per acre, registering an unrealised gain of
126% based on reckner rate.
INVESTMENTS
Hinduja Energy (India) Limited:
India is the ffth largest producer and consumer of electricity in the
world, after China, US, Russia and Japan. Power generation has grown
more than 100 fold since independence, while demand growth has been
even higher due to accelerated economic activity. The total installed
capacity in the country crossed 250 GW, out of which close to 69% is
thermal power generation capacity. Private sector contributes over 35%
of this capacity while rest belongs to central as well as state
utilities. It is expected that the contribution of private sector shall
continue to increase. The sector went through a sluggish phase for the
last 2-3 years due to policy uncertainties and fuel shortage. However,
the new central government has taken certain constructive measures to
mobilise the projects that have been delayed/ stalled for various
reasons. Emphasis is being given on assured fuel availability and
incentives are being given for renewable energy sector. This has
already started boosting the confdence of the investors. Hinduja Group
with its vision to achieve 10,000 MW capacity wants to be a significant
private sector player in the Indian power sector.
HNPCL''s Greenfield 1040 MW Thermal Power Project in Visakhapatnam is
expected to get commissioned in FY 15 thus creating value for its
investors from this year onwards. The Company in the process has
developed a competent project execution team with strong
techno-commercial expertise for future power projects. HEIL through its
joint venture company Steag O&M Company Ltd is also developing a team
for the Operations & Maintenance (O&M) of the Vizag Power Project, that
will be further augmented to carry out the O&M of the future power
projects of the Group as well as other third party power projects
outside the Group.
During the year, power investments were consolidated into the Company
by acquisition of shares of HEIL from its subsidiary Grant Investrade
Limited. This has released much needed capital in Grant Investrade
Limited level to develope its new Media business by deploying Headend
In the Sky technology.
SUBSIDIARIES
Media:
Grant Investrade Limited (GIL):
GIL had applied for Headend In the Sky (HITS) permission, which was
granted during the year, by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
GIL now awaits the wireless operational license. The Company has
capitalised GIL with R 100 crore Preference Capital to spearhead the
HITS business.
With the mandate of Digitalization from the Government of India, a
number of cable operators fnd themselves having to move from a B2B
model to a B2C model which is now consumer centric. Apart from
considering their financial resources and size, they will fnd it
diffcult to be able to muster and provide quality digital services with
multiple choices to their customers and compete with other providers
like Direct to Home (DTH) who have well established customer friendly
services.
Considering the above, your Company thought it appropriate to launch a
"White Lable Service" model to the large number of cable operators
through a HITS model, through this the company would provide quality
backend services stipulated by TRAI. GIL is expected to fll the gap and
supplement Cable operations especially in Phase III and IV and grow
instantly throughout India. GIL has commenced project activities for
launch of HITS platform and the business is expected to go live by
March 2015.
IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (IMCL):
IMCL needs funds for consolidation in Phase I and Phase II and to
digitalise network in Phase III and Phase IV. Hence for providing
funding support your Company has made an investment of R 10,000 Lacs in
IMCL by purchasing 10%, Redeemable Cumulative Preference Shares of R
10/-.
IMCL successfully completed digitization of its networks in Phase I and
II of the Governments mandatory digitization process. IMCL now provides
digital service to its subscribers in over 21 cities.
IMCL consolidated EBIDTA for the year stood at R 2,606.81 Lacs as
against R 14,114.78 Lacs in the previous year Consolidated Total Income
grew by 4.43% from R 61,061.95 Lacs to R 63,891.65 Lacs.
IMCL has over 2.3 million digital customers and plans to convert its
entire base of customers to digital in the next 2 years.
The IMCL infrastructure is adequately geared to meet the opportunity
presented by mandatory Digital Addressable System (DAS) and is
currently supported by 10,000 kms of hybrid fbre optic cable network,
which includes 2,000 kms of underground fbre.
IMCL has announced various packages in its digital platform and also
commenced High Defnition TV services (HD). IMCL remains committed to
its customers to bring out the best of the technology for digital
viewing over its cable networks. It now offers over 350 Standard
Defnition channels (SD) and over 20 High defnition channels (HD) in key
markets under the brand name INDIGITAL. There are also plans to
introduce Value Added Services (VAS) digital cable.
Synergy in Media Business:
All back-end services viz. CAS, SMS, IT [Corporate & network] will be
provided by the HITS platform to IMCL. GHITS will also provide
specialist services like "TV Everywhere" and "Value-Added Services"
(VAS) to IMCL.
1. IMCL will not need to incur capital expenditure for the back-end
and upgrade costs to digital head-ends. IMCL will also benefit from
lower operating costs for:
a. DHE manpower & operation, including AMCs where applicable
b. Back-end staffng
c. Administrative expenses
d. Power & fuel
e. Multi-lingual call centre set-up costs & operation
2. There will be additional savings on administrative expenses by
combining of functions like HR, legal etc.
3. IMCL will be the anchor customers for the HITS platform. IMCL will
provide HITS platform the ready customer base it requires that will
enable HITS platform to break even much faster.
FUTURE OUTLOOK Â MEDIA & CABLE TV SECTOR
In calendar year 2013, the Indian Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry
registered a growth of 11.8% over 2012 and touched INR 918 billion.
Overall growth remained muted, largely caused by the slowdown of the
Indian economy. The
economic slowdown impacted advertising revenue dependent sectors such
as TV and print the depreciation in the rupee also affected print,
cable and DTH companies adversely but helped export oriented sectors
such as animation and VFX to some degree. At the same time, this was
countered by the impact of continued digitization of media products and
services, and growth in regional media.
Digitization of cable saw progress of Television industry moving in the
right direction, with the mandatory Digital Access System (DAS) rollout
almost complete in Phase II cities. The impact was felt to the extent
that carriage fees saw a reduction of 15-20% overall, however the
anticipated increase in ARPUs and subscription revenues for
broadcasters and MSOs (Multi System Operators) is expected to be
realized only over the next 2-3 years. Broadcaster revenue also
increased by 35-40%, however also revenue has only increased
marginally, as the DAS environment is still settling down.
ARPUs are expected to gradually increase over the next 2 years. Other
key highlights in 2013 were the inclusion of LC1 (less than class I)
markets in TV ratings, the 12 minute advertising cap ruling and the
shift from TRP to TVT ratings. The recent Telecom Regulatory Authority
of India regulation on dissolution of aggregators for Broadcast
channels is likely to allow more fexibility in packaging.
Year 2013 was a year in which many parts of the M&E industry paused and
took stock. Focus shifted from top line growth to bottom line growth
with companies focusing on operations and effciency. Inspite of a very
challenging macro environment, the industry grew 12%, a far better
performance than many other industries. The structural changes taking
place in the industry especially in television and digital, continued
to take the industry down the path of fulfilling its potential.
Broadcasting & Distribution:
- The benefit of Phase I and Phase II digitalization in terms of growth
in subscription revenues is expected to be seen over 2014 and 2015.
- Growth is expected to be driven, through packaging in subscription
revenues, while carriage costs are expected to rationalize in metro
markets.
Distribution:
- Phase I of cable digitalization kick-started and met with varying
degrees of success in the four metros. However, the consumer has warmed
up to the concept of digitalization.
- Phase II has already started. Out of the 38 cities identified for
Phase II digitalization, approximately 80% of C&S households are
already digitalized and the balance are likely to be completed in next
six months.
On the new digital environment, MSOs also will have the capability to
directly add the Customer. LCOs will be crucial to customer
interactions and day-to-day management. Therefore LCOs relationship
management remains crucial for MSOs. With 74% FDI recently granted to
digital cable sector, there is increasing interest of private equity
funds and foreign investment in these sectors.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with Accounting Standard AS-21 on Consolidated Financial
Statements read with Accounting Standard AS-23 on Accounting for
Investments in Associates and AS-27 on Financial Reporting of Interest
in Joint Ventures, the audited Consolidated Financial Statements are
provided in the Annual Report.
Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India vide its circular
no. 2/2011 dated 8th February, 2011 has provided general exemption from
compliance with Sub-Section 212(8) of the Companies Act, 1956. In view
of the exemption from compliance of section 212(8) of the Act, the
Balance Sheet, the Statement of Profit and Loss and other documents of
the subsidiary companies are not being attached with the Balance Sheet
of the Company. Financial information of the subsidiary companies, as
required by the said general approval, is disclosed in Note No. 32 of
Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company will make available the Annual Accounts of the subsidiary
companies and the related detailed information to any member of the
Company who may be interested in obtaining the same. The annual
accounts of the subsidiary companies will also be kept open for
inspection at the Registered office of the Company. The Consolidated
Financial Statements presented by the Company include the financial
results of its subsidiary companies.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Your Company through Hinduja Foundation, has provided much needed
healthcare facility through Hinduja Foundation in tribal areas of Thane
district. The Scheme has been sanctioned by National Committee for
Promotion of Social and Economic Welfare. The healthcare services
through mobile medical vans are planned to be expanded to neighboring
parts of Mokhada, Wada and Bhiwandi Talukas which will operate in
concert with the Integrated Child Development Services Programme of
Government of India. During the one year of its operations the program
has served over 19,247 people and trained more than 15 teachers and
over 6,000 children in hygiene and preventive care.
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Your Company has on a continuous basis, endeavored to increase
awareness among its stakeholders and in the market place about the
Company''s strategy, new developments and financial performance as per
rules laid down by the Regulatory Authority like SEBI etc.
Brand building of the organization is being given impetus and your
Company is poised to achieve positive results out of these efforts.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO) AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)
CERTIFICATION
The Chief Executive officer (CEO) and Chief Financial officer (CFO)
certification as required under clause 49 of the Listing Agreement and
the Chief Executive officer''s declaration about the code of conduct are
furnished in "Annexure  A" and "Annexure A-1" to this report.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE
EARNINGS AND OUTGO
Considering the nature of the business of your Company, there are no
particulars to be disclosed relating to the Conservation of Energy,
Research and Development & Technology Absorption pursuant to Section
217(1) (e) of the Companies Act, 1956 during the year under review.
The details of Foreign Exchange and outgo are given in "Annexure  B"
to this report.
EMPLOYEES PARTICULARS
Particulars of employees as required under Section 217(2A) of the
Companies Act, 1956 read with the Companies (Particulars of Employees)
Rules, 1975 and Companies (Particulars of Employees) Rules, 2011 as
amended, is annexed as "Annexure  C" to this report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
As required under clause 49 of the Listing Agreement, a detailed report
on Corporate Governance is annexed as "Annexure  D" to this report.
The Statutory Auditors of your Company have examined the Company''s
compliance with regulations and have certified the same as required
under the Listing Agreement. The certifcate is annexed as "Annexure Â
E" to this report.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
Further, a separate Management Discussion and Analysis Report covering
a wide range of issues relating to industry trends, company
performance, SWOT analysis, business outlook etc. is annexed as
"Annexure  F" to this report.
FIXED DEPOSITS
Your Company has not accepted any fixed deposits from the public and as
such, no amount of principal or interest was outstanding as on the
balance sheet date.
INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND ITS AD- EQUACY
The Company maintains an adequate system of internal control to ensure
that all assets are safeguarded against loss from unauthorised use or
disposition. Company policies, guidelines and procedures are in place
to ensure that all transactions are authorised, recorded and reported
correctly.
DIRECTORS
Mr. R.P. Hinduja, Director of your Company is liable to retire by
rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and being eligible,
offers himself for re-appointment.
Appointment of Mr. Anil Harish, Mr. Prakash Shah, Mr. R.P. Chitale and
Mr. H.C. Asher as Independent Directors pursuant to Section 149 and 152
of the Companies Act, 2013 are proposed to be made at the forthcoming
Annual General Meeting for a term of consecutive five years. Pursuant
to Section 149 and 152 of Companies Act, 2013, Independent Director
will not be liable to retire by rotation.
DIRECTORS'' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Pursuant to Section 217(2AA) of the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2000
your Directors, based on the information and documents made available
to them, confirm that:
(i) in the preparation of annual accounts for year ending 31st March
2014, the applicable accounting standards have been followed;
(ii) appropriate accounting policies have been selected and applied
consistently. Judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
have been made so as to give a true and fair view of the state of
affairs of your Company as on 31st March 2014 and of the Profit of your
Company for the year ended 31st March 2014;
(iii) proper and suffcient care to the best of their knowledge and
ability has been taken for the maintenance of adequate accounting
records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956
for safeguarding the assets of your Company and for preventing and
detecting fraud and other irregularities;
(iv) The annual accounts have been prepared on going concern basis.
COST AUDITORS
The Board of Directors has re-appointed M/s. ABK & Associates, Cost
Accountants, as Cost Auditors to audit the accounts relating to
telecommunication activity for the financial year ended March 31, 2015.
STATUTORY AUDITORS
M/s Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, Chartered Accountants, the Statutory
Auditors of your Company, retire at the conclusion of the forthcoming
Annual General Meeting of the Company and being eligible offer
themselves for re-appointment. The Board recommends the appointment of
the Auditors.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Your Board takes this opportunity to thank the Company''s employees,
customers, vendors, business partners, shareholders and bankers for the
faith reposed in the Company and also to thank various regulatory
authorities and agencies for their support and looks forward to their
continued encouragement.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors
Place : Mumbai Ashok P. Hinduja
Date : 29th May, 2014 Executive Chairman
Mar 31, 2013
To the Members,
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the Directors'' Report for
the year ended 31st March 2013 and the Twenty Eighth Annual Report
of your Company.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
(Rs.in Lacs)
Consolidated Standalone
For the year ended
31st March 2013 2012 2013 2012
Total Income 70,196.16 56,304.60 9,452.42 9,011.01
Total Expenses 58,737.74 39,321.36 1,101.03 1,636.17
Profit before tax 11,458.42 16,983.24 8,351.39 7,374.84
Provision for tax
(incl. deferred tax) 2,784.17 4,706.62 676.81 872.27
Profit after tax 8,674.25 12,276.62 7,674.58 6,502.57
Minority Interest 652.03 2,230.21
Profit After
Minority Interest 8,022.22 10,046.41 7,674.58 6,502.57
REVIEW OF INDIAN ECONOMY
As per the monetary policy statement for 2013- 2014, the Reserve Bank
of India has computed the cumulative GDP growth at an average of 5%
against 6.6% a year back. With the progressive fall in industrial
production, the growth rate for the current period has come down to
0.09% in April 2013 from February 2013. Inventory and capacity
utilization remains flat. The composite Purchasing Manager Index (PMI)
encompassing manufacturing and services had fallen to a seventeen month
low in March 2013, but headline inflation as measured by wholesale
price index moderated to an average of 7.3% in 2012-2013 from 8.9% in
the earlier year. Retail inflation driven by food inflation averaged
10.2%. Corporate performance has shown significant deceleration. The
current account deficit touched 6.7% in Quarter 3 of 2012-2013. In the
light of all this, RBI has estimated baseline GDP growth at 5.7% for
the next year. The greatest risk to the Indian economy continues to be
the extremely high current account deficit. In the light of this
scenario, while RBI has taken certain monetary measures to stimulate
the economy, industrial revival will require greater facilitation in
terms of effective policy measures to stimulate private investment.
REVIEW OF FINANCIALS
On a Consolidated basis your Company registered a growth of 24.67% in
Income to reach r 70,196.16 Lacs from r 56,304.60 Lacs during the year.
EBIDTA increased from r 21,969.33 Lacs to r 22,713.60 Lacs. Net Profit
after Taxes and Minority Interest reduced from r 10,046.41 Lacs to r
8,022.22 Lacs.
The Standalone results reflect a strong performance buoyed by Treasury
gains. Total Income grew by 4.90% from r 9,011.01 Lacs to r 9,452.42
Lacs. Net Profit after Tax grew 18.02% from r 6,502.57 Lacs to r
7,674.58 Lacs.
DIVIDEND
The Board is pleased to recommend Dividend payment of r 15/- per Equity
Share (150% Dividend on face value of r 10/- per Equity Share) for the
financial year 2012-13. The current year Dividend will result in a
payout of r 3,607.34 Lacs including Dividend Distribution Tax,
representing 47% of the current year earnings.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
The Company proposes to transfer r 767.46 Lacs to the General Reserve
as required under Transfer to General Reserve Rules and to carry
forward an amount of r 45,799.47 Lacs as balance in the Statement of
Profit and Loss.
REAL ESTATE
The Company continues to pursue its efforts in seeking clearance for
the development of its real estate in Bengaluru including attending the
legal suits related to title in respect of 47.2 acres land. The land
was purchased at r 0.14 crores per acre and today the reckoner rate of
land value stands at r 3.08 crores per acre. Post clearance of all the
issues, the Company will take up development of the property.
Your Company through its wholly owned subsidiary had acquired 4.75
acres of land in Hyderabad at a price of r 5.00 crores per acre. As of
31st March 2013, the reckoner rate of land stands as r 12.1 crores per
acre, registering an unrealised gain of 142%.
INVESTMENTS
During the year under review, your Company has made further investment
of r 16,211.00 Lacs in Hinduja Energy (India) Limited through its
wholly owned subsidiary Grant Investrade Limited. Hinduja Energy
(India) Limited''s subsidiary Hinduja National Power Corporation Limited
is expected to go on stream during this financial year. It is setting
up a 1040 MW coal based power plant at Vizag in Andhra Pradesh, India.
SUBSIDIARIES
Media:
IndusInd Media & Communications Limited (IMCL):
IMCL moved on in 2012-13 with the cable digitalization mandated by
Government in a Phasewise manner. During the Ist phase of
Digitalization, IMCL covered 3 cities (out of four metros mandated) and
converted all the targeted analogue homes to digital. In the cities of
Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata, IMCL now offers only a digital signal for TV
viewing.
IMCL has expanded the geography and network to 36 cities. The
consolidation plans continued with Phase II. In the IInd Phase of
Digitalization, IMCL is present in 15 cities, out of the Government
mandated 38 cities list. IMCL already has over 2.3 million digital
customers and plans to convert the entire base of 8.5 million customers
to digital in the next 2 to 3 years. It will also give a significant
push to Internet over cable services during the coming year.
IMCL consolidated EBIDTA for the year stood at r 14,114.78 Lacs as
against r 14,563.48 Lacs. Consolidated Total Income grew by 26.82%
from r 48,146.68 Lacs to r 61,061.95 Lacs.
IMCL has announced its various packages in the digital platform and
also commenced the High Definition TV services (HD) in certain key
markets. IMCL remains committed to its customers to bring out the best
of the technology for viewing digitally over the cable networks. It now
offers over 350 Standard Definition channels (SD) and over 20 High
Definition channels (HD) in key markets under the brand name INDIGITAL.
There are also plans to introduce Value Added Services (VAS) in digital
cable.
The IMCL infrastructure is adequately geared to meet the opportunity
presented by mandatory Digital Addressable System (DAS) and is
currently supported by 10,000 km of hybrid fibre optic cable network,
which includes 2,000 km of underground fibre.
IMCL has already achieved the first success of digitalization. However,
IMCL feels that Government and Regulator have to consider some vital
issues, such as:
- Providing infrastructure status to the cable industry.
- Access to domestic funding is critical for successive phases of
digitalization.
- Customs duty on set top boxes has been doubled to 10%. Government
indicated that this has been done in order to provide a boost to
indigenous manufacturers. Incentives and subsidies to local
manufacturers would be important to enable them to be more cost-
competitive vis-a-vis imported boxes, thus keeping the price of the STB
lower for the Consumer.
- Reduction in customs duty on digital headend equipments and set top
boxes will provide a boost to the digitalization initiative.
FUTURE OUTLOOK - MEDIA & CABLE TV SECTOR
The Indian Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry grew from INR 728
billion in 2011 to INR 821 billion in 2012, registering an overall
growth of 12.6%. Given the impetus introduced by digitalization,
continued growth of regional media, strength in the film sector and
fast increasing new media businesses, the industry is estimated to
achieve a growth rate of 11.8% in 2013 to touch INR 917 billion. The
sector is projected to grow at a healthy CAGR of 15.2% to reach INR
1,661 billion by 2017.
In 2012, the television industry commenced its journey down a
game-changing path with the seeds planted for sweeping changes that
would significantly change in the way business is done. Digitalization
of cable is expected to bring in transparency and increase subscription
revenues for Multi-System Operators (MSOs), broadcasters and higher
taxes for Government. Developments and refinements in viewership
measurement systems may affect the way advertising is distributed among
channels.
In itself, 2012 was a challenging year for the industry, with companies
conserving capital and cutting advertisement spends in the face of a
soft macro-economic environment. Against this backdrop, leading players
and networks stood out as they managed to perform better than fringe
and niche players. The TV sector also witnessed consolidation and
exits, paving way for a more sustainable, profitable future.
Despite the current challenges, the long-term outlook remains positive
and India continues to remain a key strategic market for leading
international broadcasters and national MSOs.
The television industry in India is estimated at INR 370 billion in
2012 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18% over 2012-17, to reach
INR 848 billion in 2017. Aided by digitalization and the consequent
increase in ARPUs (Average Revenue Per User), the share of subscription
revenue to the total industry revenue is expected to increase from 66%
in 2012 to 72% in 2017.
Paid Cable & Satellite (C&S) penetration of TV households is expected
to increase to 91% by 2017:
The number of C&S households in India increased by 11 million in 2012
to reach 130 million. Excluding DD Direct, the number of paid C&S
households is estimated to be 121 million. This paid C&S base is
expected to grow to 173 million by 2017, representing 91% of TV
households.
Broadcasting & Distribution:
- The benefit of Phase I and Phase II digitalization in terms of
growth in subscription revenues is expected to be seen over 2013 and
2014.
- Growth is expected to be driven by a sharp increase in subscription
revenues, while carriage costs are expected to rationalize in metro
markets.
Distribution:
- Phase I of cable digitalization kick-started and met with varying
degrees of success in the four metros. However, the consumer has warmed
upto the concept of digitalization.
- Phase II as already started. Completion of Phase II digitalization
is likely to get delayed by 3 to 6 months. Out of the 38 cities
identified for phase II digitalization, approximately 80% of C&S
households are already digitalized.
With the eventual control of the subscriber moving to MSOs post
digitalization, the distribution industry is expected to see a power
shift towards MSOs. Local Cable Operators (LCOs) are expected to take
up the role of servicing agents while MSOs control the infrastructure
and generate bills through a subscriber management system, ideally a
prepaid model.
However, even as MSOs may have control of the subscriber, LCOs will be
crucial to customer interactions and day-to-day management. Therefore
LCOs relationship management remains crucial for MSOs. With 74% FDI
recently granted to digital cable sector, there is increasing interest
of private equity funds and foreign investors in these sector.
GRANT INVESTRADE LIMITED (GIL) - HITS LICENSE
With the mandate of Digitalization from the Government of India, a
number of cable operators find themselves in a very strange position
having to move from a B2B model to a B2C model which is now consumer
centric and apart from considering their financial resources and size,
will find it diffi- cult to be able to muster and provide quality
digital services with multiple choices to their customers and compete
with other providers like Direct to Home (DTH) who have well
established customer friendly services.
Considering the above, your Company thought it appropriate to launch a
"pure service" model to the large number of cable operators through
a HITS (Head-end in the Sky) model through this the Company would
provide world renowned and quality backend services stipulated by TRAI.
Accordingly, GIL, the wholly owned subsidiary of the Company had
applied for a HITS license with The Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting (MIB) in the month of November 2012. The license is in the
final stages of approval.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with Accounting Standard AS-21 on Consolidated Financial
Statements read with Accounting Standard AS-23 on Accounting for
Investments in Associates and AS-27 on Financial Reporting of Interest
in Joint Ventures, the audited Consolidated Financial Statements are
provided in the Annual Report.
Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India vide its circular
no. 2/2011 dated 8th February, 2011 has provided general exemption from
compliance with Sub-Section 212(8) of the Companies Act, 1956. In view
of the exemption from compliance of section 212(8) of the Act, the
Balance Sheet, Statement of Profit and Loss and other documents of the
subsidiary companies are not being attached with the Balance Sheet of
the Company. Financial information of the subsidiary companies as
required by the said general approval, is disclosed in Note No. 31(A)
of Consolidated Financial Statemens.
The Company will make available the Annual Accounts of the subsidiary
companies and the related detailed information to any member of the
Company who may be interested in obtaining the same. The annual
accounts of the subsidiary companies will also be kept open for
inspection at the Registered Office of the Company. The Consolidated
Financial Statements presented by the Company include the financial
results of its subsidiary companies.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Your Company through Hinduja Foundation under project approved by the
National Committee for Promotion of Social and Economic Welfare, is
successfully implementing its mobile health care project targeting the
rural poor in tribal areas of Thane district, North Maharashtra. The
mobile medical units operate in a planned journey cycle along the
interior village roads and provide primary healthcare services and
healthcare education on specified days in a week. They also provide
more advanced referral services in tandem with mobile hospital unit of
P. D. Hinduja National Hospital & Medical Research Centre. During the
one year of its operations the program has served over 40,000 people
and trained more than 15 teachers and over 10,000 children in hygiene
and preventive care.
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Your Company has, on a continuous basis, endeavored to increase
awareness among its stakeholders and in the market place about the
Company''s strategy, new developments and financial performance as per
rules laid down by the Regulatory Authority like SEBI etc.
Brand building of the organization is being given impetus and your
Company is poised to achieve positive results out of these efforts.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO) AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)
CERTIFICATION
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Certification as required under clause 49 of the Listing Agreement and
Chief Executive Officer''s declaration about the code of conduct are
furnished in "Annexure-A" and "Annexure-A-1" to this report.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE
EARNINGS AND OUTGO
Considering the nature of the business of your Company, there are no
particulars to be disclosed relating to the Conservation of Energy,
Research and Development & Technology Absorption pursuant to Section
217(1)(e) of the Companies Act, 1956 during the year under review.
The details of Foreign Exchange and outgo are given in "Annexure-B"
to this report.
EMPLOYEES PARTICULARS
Particulars of employees as required under Section 217(2A) of the
Companies Act, 1956 read with the Companies (Particulars of Employees)
Rules, 1975 and Companies (Particulars of Employees) Rules, 2011 as
amended, is annexed as "Annexure-C" to this report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
As required under clause 49 of the Listing Agree- ment, a detailed
report on Corporate Governance is annexed as "Annexure-D" to this
report.
The Statutory Auditors of your Company have examined the Company''s
compliance with regulations and have certified the same as required
under the Listing Agreement. The certificate is annexed as
"Annexure-E" to this report.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
Further, a separate Management Discussion and Analysis Report covering
a wide range of issues relating to industry trends, company
performance, SWOT analysis, business outlook etc. is annexed as
"Annexure-F" to this report.
FIXED DEPOSITS
Your Company has not accepted any fixed deposits from the public and as
such, no amount of principal or interest was outstanding as on the
balance sheet date.
INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND ITS ADEQUACY
The Company maintains an adequate system of internal control to ensure
that all assets are safeguarded against loss from unauthorised use or
disposition. Company policies, guidelines and procedures are in place
to ensure that all transactions are authorised, recorded and reported
correctly.
DIRECTORS
Mr. Ashok P. Hinduja was re-appointed as an Executive Chairman of the
Company for the period of three years with effect from 1st October
2010. His tenure will be expiring on 30th September 2013. The Board
of Directors in its meeting held on 16th May 2013 has recommended him
for re-appointment as an Executive Chairman of the Company for a
further period of five years with effect from 1st October 2013.
Ms. Vinoo Hinduja was appointed as an Additional Director by the Board
on 30th October 2012. Being an Additional Director appointed by Board,
her appointment as a Director would require approval of the
shareholders as she would hold office upto the date of this Annual
General Meeting under section 260 of the Companies Act, 1956.
Mr. Prakash Shah and Mr. R. P. Chitale, Directors of your Company are
liable to retire by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and
being eligible, offer themselves for re-appointment.
Mr. Dheeraj G. Hinduja, Director has resigned from the Board effective
26th October 2012. The Board places on record its deep sense of
appreciation for the invaluable contributions made by Mr. Dheeraj G.
Hinduja during his tenure as director of the Company.
Mr. Ravi Mansukhani, Alternate Director to Mr. Dheeraj G. Hinduja
ceased to be an Alternate Director due to resignation of Mr. Dheeraj G.
Hinduja effective 26th October 2012 and appointed as an Alternate
Director to Ms. Vinoo Hinduja with effect from 30th October 2012.
DIRECTORS'' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Pursuant to Section 217(2AA) of the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2000
your Directors, based on the information and documents made available
to them, confirm that:
i) in the preparation of annual accounts for year ending 31st March
2013, the applicable accounting standards have been followed;
ii) appropriate accounting policies have been selected and applied
consistently. Judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
have been made so as to give a true and fair view of the state of
affairs of your Company as on 31st March 2013 and of the profit of your
Company for the year ended 31st March 2013;
iii) proper and sufficient care to the best of their knowledge and
ability has been taken for the maintenance of adequate accounting
records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956
for safeguarding the assets of your Company and for preventing and
detecting fraud and other irregularities;
iv) The annual accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis.
COST AUDITORS
In conformity with the directives of the Central Government, the
Company has appointed M/s. ABK & Associates, Cost Accountants, Mumbai
as the Cost Auditors under Section 233B of the Companies Act, 1956, for
the audit of cost accounts for the Telecommunications Activity of the
company for the financial year ended 31st March 2013.
Pursuant to the General Circular No. 43/2012 dated December 26, 2012
read with General Circular Nos. 18/2012 dated July 26, 2012 and 8/
2012 dated May 10, 2012 (as amended on June 29, 2012), the Ministry of
Corporate Affairs has allowed the Companies concerned to file their
Cost Audit reports for the Financial year 2012- 13 (including the
reports relating to any previous year(s)) with the Central Government
in the XBRL mode, within 180 days from the close of the company''s
financial year to which the report relates. Accordingly the Cost Audit
report for the financial year 2012-13 is due for filling with the
Ministry of Corporate Affairs within 180 days (i.e. 27th September,
2013). Necessary action is being taken to file the Report as required.
STATUTORY AUDITORS
M/s Deloitte Haskins & Sells, Chartered Accountants, the Statutory
Auditors of your Company, retire at the conclusion of the forthcoming
Annual General Meeting of the Company and being eligible offer
themselves for re-appointment. The Board recommends the appointment of
the Auditors.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
Your Board takes this opportunity to thank the Company''s employees,
customers, vendors, business partners, shareholders and bankers for the
faith reposed in the Company and also to thank various regulatory
authorities and agencies for their support and looks forward to their
continued encouragement.
For and on behalf of the Board
Place : Mumbai Ashok P. Hinduja
Date : 16th May, 2013 Executive Chairman
Mar 31, 2012
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the Director's Report for
the year ended 31st March 2012 and Twenty Seventh Annual Report of your
company.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
(Rs. in million)
Consolidated Standalone
For the year ended 31st March 2012 2011 2012 2011
Total Income 5,630.46 4,752.92 901.10 834.78
Total Expenses 3,932.14 3,383.57 163.62 159.44
Profit before tax 1,698.32 1,369.35 737.48 675.34
Provision for tax
(incl. deferred tax) 470.66 277.21 87.22 99.24
Profit after tax 1,227.66 1,092.14 650.26 576.10
Minority Interest 223.02 226.43 - -
Profit After Minority
Interest 1,004.64 865.71 650.26 576.10
REVIEW OF FINANCIALS
After two consecutive years of more than 8.4% economic growth rates
registered in the years 2009 & 2010, the business cyclic returned in
the year 2012. The estimates of double digit growth rates by various
economists proved at best estimated and the growth rate slowed down by
2.1% to register a growth rate of 6.9%. Though the growth rate has come
down from near double digit growth to 6.5% - 7%, the good part is that
India still remains a consumption story. The slowdown in economy was on
account of efforts by RBI to contain inflation by increasing key rates
which impact the cost of money. With the monetary easing now expected
in coming quarters, the cost of money is expected to come back to lower
levels. This is expected to bring growth rates back to double digit
levels. In the back-drop of monetary tightening resulting in lower
growth rates, your Company's performance was highly satisfactory.
On a consolidated basis your Company registered a growth of 18.46% in
Income to reach Rs. 5,630.46 mn from Rs. 4,752.92 mn during the year.
EBIDTA grew from Rs. 1,647.38 mn to Rs. 2,051.98 mn, registering a
growth of 24.56%. Net Profit after Taxes and Minority grew from Rs.
865.71 mn to Rs. 1,004.64 mn, a growth of 16.05%. The Net Profit Rate
growth was lower on account of taxes at Subsidiary levels, which lost
tax shield on account of past losses. Taxes increased from Rs. 277.21
mn to Rs. 470.66 mn. The standalone results also continued its strong
performance buoyed by Treasury gains. Total Income grew by 7.94% from
Rs. 834.78 mn to Rs. 901.10 mn. Net Profit After Tax grew 12.87% from
Rs. 576.10 mn to Rs. 650.26 mn.
DIVIDEND
Your Company believes in a balanced payout of Dividend to reward
shareholders between future requirement of funds and performance of the
Company. Considering strong performance of the Company, the Board is
pleased to enhance Dividend payout from Rs. 12.50/- to Rs. 15/- (150%
Dividend on face value of Rs. 10/- per Equity Share), an increase of
20% over previous years. Enhanced dividend payment will entail payout
of Rs. 358.35 mn. The Dividend payout works out to 55.11% of current
year earnings including Dividend Distribution Tax.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
The Company proposes to transfer Rs. 65.02 mn to the General Reserve as
required under Transfer to General Reserve Rules and carry forward an
amount of Rs. 4,249.96 mn as Balance in the Profit & Loss account.
REAL ESTATE
The real estate market exhibited a strong recovery and continued its
buoyant journey. The value of the property owned by the company at
Bangalore in the vicinity, as per the Government stamp duty ready
reckoner rates now stands at Rs. 2.25 crores per acres. The value as
per the current stamp duty value rates stands at Rs. 106.20 crores and
an approximate market value of property is estimated at Rs. 143.31
crores. The Company owns 47.2 acres of real estate land at Bangalore.
To complete the registration of title in the name of the Company, the
Company has fled a suit for transfer of title. Post clearance of all
the issues, the Company will take up development of the property.
INVESTMENTS
During the year under review, your Company has made an investment in
Hinduja Leyland Finance Limited by acquiring 8.9% of equity of the
company.
Your Company has also invested Rs. 250 mn in Hinduja Energy India
Limited through its wholly owned subsidiary Grant Investrade Limited.
SUBSIDIARIES
Media:
IndusInd Media and Communications Limited (IMCL):
During the year, IMCL consolidated its operations by focusing on
acquisitions made during the past years. The acquisitions made in the
past have expanded the geography of IMCL to 34 centres now. The current
year strong performance of IMCL refects the consolidation presented by
its past acquisitions.
IMCL consolidated EBDITA for the year stood at Rs. 1,350.32 mn as
against Rs. 1,108.20 mn registering a growth of 21.85 % in otherwise
flat market conditions. Consolidated Total Income grew by 17.46% from
Rs. 4,099.11 mn to Rs. 4,814.67 mn.
During the year, IMCL took majority stake in two more entities and grew
organically in few other geographies. The total subsidiaries of IMCL
now stand at 16 and one equal venture of 50:50% each. By virtue of
majority holding by IMCL, these entities have become indirect
subsidiaries of the Company.
IMCL is waiting on the cusp of digital revolution being ushered in by
the Government's mandated policy of digitizing cable networks. The
Digital Addressable System (DAS) is being introduced by the Government
from 1st November 2012 in four phases for the entire country. This
offers an unique opportunity for IMCL to make all its subscribers
addressable and transparent and to improve its subscription revenues
manifold. In the current year, as per mandatory digitization, the four
metros are expected to go digital. IMCL has presence in three out of
the four metros, excluding Chennai.
IMCL's reach as per estimates stands at 8.5 mn cable homes in 34
cities. IMCLÃs target is to have around 10 mn digital addressable
customers in next 4-5 years. This year IMCL also commenced the High
Definition TV services (HD) in certain key markets and remains
committed to its customers to bring out best of the technology breed
for viewing through digital over cable networks. It now offers 380
digital channels under the brand name INDIGITAL, being the highest
number of channels offered by any cable network.
New Value Added Services (VAS) in digital cable will also start this
year. IMCL infrastructure is adequately geared up to meet the
opportunity presented by mandatory DAS and is currently supported by
10,000 km of hybrid fibre optic cable network, which includes 2,000 km
of underground fibre.
On the Broadband side, IMCL has deployed new technology of GEpon and
EOC which provides bandwidth speeds of over 8 Mbps to 10 Mbps at
affordable prices. This will put IMCLÃs Broadband technology at par
with telecom players. The services that will be supported include video
multi-casting, Voice on Demand (VoD), high speed interactive gaming,
audio and video conferencing, IP telephony, distance learning, etc.
FUTURE OUTLOOK - MEDIA & CABLE TV SECTOR
The Media & Entertainment (M & E) industry is poised for a new digital
growth. Every segment within the industry ecosystem is getting impacted
by digitalization in a significant way. The Government's push towards
digitalization and addressability for cable television by 2014 in the
form of mandatory DAS is expected to provide an impetus to digital
cable growth and transparent business models for corporate business
houses in cable TV distribution.
Convergence between entertainment, information and telecommunication is
increasingly impacting India's overall M & E sector. Significant
advancement in media devices over the last decade ensures that the same
content can now be accessed on a variety of media platforms. This
implies that new business models and revenue streams, not only for
content providers, but also for the distribution sector as well will be
opened up. Cable TV distribution, especially MSOs will be one of the key
winners and become very significant in the new media ecosystem in view
of implementation of DAS.
The Rs. 270 bn Indian cable sector is the third largest in the world
after China and US. The number of TV homes in India grew from ~120 mn
in 2007 to ~148 mn TV homes currently. The TV viewing experience has
changed a great deal over the last few years with the upcoming
broadcasters producing differentiated and niche content like reality
shows, food channels and more. The number of channels available has
more than doubled to 800 plus channels, offering viewers more choice
than they could ask for.
With a strong distribution networks spread across the country, cable
and satellite has penetrated 92% of TV homes to reach 136 mn homes in
2011 at 16% CAGR (2007-2011). Total Cable & Satellite (C & S) homes are
expected to reach 166 mn by 2015. Much of the growth will come from
digital cable. Mandatory digitisation will provide a thrust to digital
cable to increase its reach. The deep penetrated analogue reach will
help digital cable operators capture this opportunity much faster.
Digital cable subscriber base should witness 31% CAGR over 2012-2015.
Broadband subscriber base will grow considerably led by bundled
offering of digital cable with broadband.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with Accounting Standard AS-21 on Consolidated Financial
Statements read with Accounting Standard AS-23 on Accounting for
Investments in Associates and AS-27 on Financial Reporting of Interest
in Joint Ventures, the audited Consolidated Financial Statements are
provided in the Annual Report.
Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India vide its circular
no. 2/2011 dated 8th February 2011 has provided general exemption from
Compliance of Sub-Section 212(8) of the Companies Act, 1956. In view of
the exemption from compliance of section 212(8) of the Act, the Balance
Sheet, Profit and Loss Account and other documents of the subsidiary
companies are not being attached with the Balance Sheet of the Company.
Financial information of the subsidiary companies, as required by the
said general approval, is disclosed in the Annual Report.
The Company will make available the Annual Accounts of the subsidiary
companies and the related detailed information to any member of the
Company who may be interested in obtaining the same. The annual
accounts of the subsidiary companies will also be kept open for
inspection at the Registered Office of the Company. The Consolidated
Financial Statements presented by the Company include the financial
results of its subsidiary companies.
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Your Company has, on a continuous basis, endeavored to increase
awareness among its stakeholders and in the market place about the
Company's strategy, new developments and financial performance as per
rules laid down by the Regulatory Authority like SEBI etc.
Brand building of the organization is being given impetus and your
Company is poised to achieve positive results out of these efforts.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO) AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)
CERTIFICATION
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Certification as required under clause 49 of the Listing Agreement, and
the Chief Executive OfficerÃs declaration about the code of conduct are
furnished in "Annexure-A" and "Annexure A-1" to this report.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE
EARNINGS AND OUTGO
Considering the nature of the business of your Company, there are no
particulars to be disclosed relating to the Conservation of Energy,
Research and Development, Technology Absorption and Foreign exchange
earnings and outgo pursuant to Section 217(1) (e) of the Companies Act,
1956 during the year under review.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
A detailed report on Corporate Governance in compliance with listing
agreements forms part of "Annexure - B".
The Statutory Auditors of your Company have examined the Company's
compliance and have certified the same as required under the listing
agreements. The certificate is reproduced as "Annexure - C".
Further, a separate Management Discussion and Analysis Report covering
a wide range of issues relating to performance, outlook etc., is
annexed as "Annexure - D".
FIXED DEPOSITS
Your Company has not accepted any fixed deposits from the public and as
such, no amount of principal or interest was outstanding as on the
balance sheet date.
INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND ITS ADEQUACY
The Company maintains an adequate system of internal control to ensure
that all assets are safeguarded against loss from unauthorised use or
disposition. Company policies, guidelines and procedures are in place
to ensure that all transactions are authorised, recorded and reported
correctly.
DIRECTORS
Mr. Ashok Mansukhani was appointed as an Additional Director by the
Board on 30th April 2012. He will act as Executive Director to
spearhead the finance and business of the Company and will be
Whole-time Director of the Company. Being an Additional Director
appointed by Board, his appointment as Director would require approval
of the shareholders as he would hold office up to the date of this
Annual General Meeting under section 260 of the Companies Act, 1956.
Mr. R. P. Hinduja, Mr. D. G. Hinduja and Mr. Anil Harish, Directors of
your Company are liable to retire by rotation at the ensuing Annual
General Meeting and being eligible, offer themselves for
re-appointment.
Mr. Dilip Panjwani, Whole-time Director and Company Secretary has
resigned from the Board effective 30th April 2012. The Board places on
record its deep sense of appreciation for the invaluable contributions
made by Mr. Dilip Panjwani during his tenure as director of the
Company.
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Pursuant to Section 217(2AA) of the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2000
your Directors, based on the information and documents made available
to them, confirm that:
i) in the preparation of annual accounts for year ending 31st March
2012, the applicable accounting standards have been followed;
ii) appropriate accounting policies have been selected and applied
consistently. Judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
have been made so as to give a true and fair view of the state of
affairs of your Company as on 31st March 2012 and of the profit of your
Company for the year ended 31st March 2012;
iii) proper and sufficient care to the best of their knowledge and
ability has been taken for the maintenance of adequate accounting
records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956
for safeguarding the assets of your Company and for preventing and
detecting fraud and other irregularities;
iv) The annual accounts have been prepared on an on going concern
basis.
AUDITORS
M/s Deloitte Haskins & Sells, Chartered Accountants, the Statutory
Auditors of your Company, retire at the conclusion of the forthcoming
Annual General Meeting of the Company and being eligible offer
themselves for re-appointment. The Board recommends their appointment.
EMPLOYEES PARTICULARS
The Company does not have any employee drawing remuneration in excess
of the limit prescribed under Section 217 (2A) of the Companies Act,
1956 read with the Companies (Particulars of Employees) Rules, 1975 as
amended from time to time.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Your Board takes this opportunity to thank the Company's employees,
customers, vendors, business partners, shareholders and bankers for the
faith reposed in the Company and also thank various regulatory
authorities and agencies for their support and looks forward to their
continued encouragement.
For and on behalf of the Board
Ashok P. Hinduja
Executive Chairman
Place: Mumbai
Date : 30th April 2012
Mar 31, 2011
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the Directors Report for
the year ended 31st March 2011 and Twenty Sixth Annual Report of your
company.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
(Rs in million)
Consolidated Standalone
For the year ended
31st March 2011 2010 2011 2010
Total Income 4,752.92 4,017.11 834.78 804.90
Total Expenses 3,383.57 3,179.97 159.44 342.36
Profit before tax 1,369.35 837.14 675.34 462.54
Provision for tax (incl.
deferred tax) 277.21 117.57 99.24 71.69
Profit after tax 1,092.14 719.57 576.10 390.85
Minority Interest 226.43 113.79 Ã Ã
Profit after Minority
Interest 865.71 605.78 576.10 390.85
REVIEW OF FINANCIALS
The Indian economy returned to path of faster growth from a slow down
witnessed in the year 2008 and thereafter the economy grew 9%
approximately in 2009 & 2010. The economy is expected to register
double-digit growth rates over next fi ve years as per estimates of
Government. Though growth is expected to continue, the medium to long
term challenge to the economy now comes from infl ation which is
estimated to have touched 15% levels and is expected to continue to
remain in the short term. Government has made efforts to contain infl
ation through monetary measures such as increase in interest rates;
however, monetary measures like increase in interest rates and
constraining liquidity alone have not been able bring down infl ation
to acceptable levels and this could become a major challenge to
economy. As a policy measure, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has
already sounded out that containing infl ation would be a priority over
high growth rates in the economy in the short term. Given, the economic
scenario of healthy growth rates and infl ation, the company continued
to outperform and post healthy results.
Consolidated Income grew by 18.32% from Rs. 4,017.11 mn to Rs. 4,752.92
mn during the year. Consolidated EBIDTA grew from Rs. 1,089.06 mn to
Rs. 1,691.68 mn a growth of 55.33%. This was achieved by containing
cost, which grew by mere 6.40%. Net Profit After Taxes and Minority
Interest grew by 42.90% from Rs. 605.78 mn to Rs. 865.71 mn. Profits
grew slower than EBIDTA on account of higher taxes as company
registered profitability setting off past losses. Taxes almost doubled
from Rs. 117.57 mn to Rs. 277.21 mn as there were no more major tax
incentives; however, the company and its material subsidiary continued
to be subject to Minimum Alternate Tax.
On standalone basis, the Company posted excellent results. EBIDTA grew
47.36% from Rs. 473.94 mn to Rs. 698.38 mn. Net Profit After Tax grew
47.40% from Rs. 390.85 mn to Rs. 576.10 mn.
DIVIDEND
The Board is pleased to enhance Dividend payout from Rs. 10/- to Rs.
12.50/- (125% Dividend on face value of Rs. 10/- per Equity Share) an
increase of 25% over previous years. Enhanced Dividend payment will
entail payout of Rs. 298.63 mn. The Dividend payout works out to 51.84%
of current year earnings including Dividend Distribution Tax.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
The Company proposes to transfer Rs. 57.61 mn to the General Reserve as
required under Transfer to General Reserve Rules and carry forward an
amount of Rs. 4,023.09 mn as Balance in Profit & Loss account.
REAL ESTATE
Your company has drawn up plan to develop the real estate piece of land
with a developer. The land is situated within 10km of NH-7 and in the
BIAPPA Zone, where the new International Airport has come up. The area
is being developed as a high end residential villas with a development
potential of 1.35 million square feet. The residential villas with a
price of approximately Rs. 5,000/- per square feet, the development
provides a potential of Rs. 675 crores of development at todays price.
The Company has extended the option to develop the property with a
developer for a further period of two years and the project is likely
to take 3-5 years of time frame in two phases. With buyount market for
high end villas, the development potential increases with increase in
prices.
Similarly, IDL Speciality Chemicals Limited (IDL) a wholly owned
subsidiary of the Company has acquired 4.75 acres of land at kukatpally
in Hyderabad. Plans are being drawn up to monetise this piece of land
as well. The land was acquired at Rs. 25.17 crores and the value has
considerably appreciated since acquisition.
SCHEME OF AMALGAMATION
Your Company had applied for Telecom Licenses under the UASL policy of
Government of India through a special purpose vehicle HTMT Telecom
Private Limited (HTMT Telecom) in the year 2007. However, due to
scarcity of spectrum the licenses were not allotted to all the
applicants. In view of no licensees being awarded, the Company decided
to merge its wholly owned subsidiary HTMT Telecom in the current year.
The necessary compliances for merger and the High Court order as
required under Section 391 to 394 of the Companies Act, 1956 were
completed during April 2011. Post all the compliances, HTMT Telecom
now stands merged with the Company from the appointed date of 1st
January 2011.
SUBSIDIARIES
Media:
IndusInd Media and Communications Limited (IMCL):
IMCL has in the year under review expanded through alliances,
partnerships, strategic investments and joint ventures as part of the
growth strategy for its business. IMCL added 8 more subsidiaries
during the current year, taking the total subsidiaries to 15. IMCL has
made 51% equity participation in these Companies and consolidated its
holdings in some companies, which are in the cable business, with a
view of expanding its presence in different regions of India. By virtue
of acquisition of a majority holding by IMCL, these Companies have
become indirect subsidiaries of the Company.
IMCL, the major media cable subsidiary of the Company continued its
strong performance in the year under review. The performance of IMCL
gets refl ected in the robust consolidated results of the Company.
IMCLs performance stands out in contrast to its peers in the group
over the last few years. The Media Segment reported EBIDTA of Rs. 1,210
mn as compared to Rs. 690 mn in the previous years. Consolidated Media
Segment reported revenues of Rs. 4,099 mn. HVL effective stake in IMCL
stands at 65.78%.
IMCL installed new digital head ends and now has digital services at 17
locations. IMCLs reach, as per estimates now stands at 8.5 mn cable
homes in 28 cities. After enabling digital delivery of services, the
focus would now shift to install set top boxes for consumption of
digital and high definition services to all its customers. Due to
digital initiative and technological innovation undertaken by IMCL, it
has moved ahead of competition and can now deliver over 300 channels
(including video and audio) in digital delivery network under the brand
INDIGITAL. This is the highest number of channels serviced by any
distribution platform currently in India.
IMCL infrastructure now spans over 10,000 km of hybrid fi bre optic
cable network, which includes 2,000 km of underground fi bre, which is
two ways enabled for exploiting triple-play.
FUTURE OUTLOOK Ã MEDIA & CABLE TV SECTOR
Last year the Indian Media & Entertainment (M & E) grew at 11%, which
is higher than the economic growth rate of 8.6%. The M & E industry
grew from Rs. 587 billion to Rs. 652 billion. In the year 2011, the M &
E industry is expected to grow at 13% and reach Rs. 738 billion. As
per Media Partners Asia estimates, M & E industry is expected to grow
at a CAGR of 14% upto 2015 and reach Rs. 1,275 billion, surpassing the
print industry to take number two slots in M & E industry. Television
and Print would continue to dominate the industry though new
technological innovations would also contribute to the growth of other
sectors namely, gaming, digital advertising, VFX and animation.
On the Cable Television side, the industry continues remains highly
fragmented with around 60,000 to 70,000 local cable operators and
around 6,000 to 8,000 Independent Cable Operators, 6 national foot
print Multi System Operators (MSOs) and several regional MSOs. This
provides an adequate opportunity of growing the sector through
consolidation. The industry is now witnessing visible signs of
consolidation with smaller LCOs and ICOs joining the mainstream MSOs.
Thus this sector offers ample opportunity for long-term growth. The
industry is also now attracting institutional funding. IMCL itself
attracted debt financing based on its cash fl ow without any
additional recourse. However, the sector will require an estimated
institutional funding of Rs. 500 to Rs. 600 billion in investments for
capex and similar amounts towards consolidation.
The Cable TV penetration today is approximately 65% of cable and
satellite homes which are at par with developed economies. However, the
Indian Cable TV is characterized by very low declaration and absence of
addressability resulting in low subscriptions and increased dependency
on placement revenues. This results in slow investment in the sector.
Mandatory digitization is perceived as an opportunity to bring
discipline to the sector. Mandatory digitization and addressability
will immediately attract a lot of investment and simultaneously offer
Government an increased share of taxes. Government has accepted the
recommendations of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, the
regulatory authority for cable industry, for mandatory digitization and
addressability. This will make the sector more attractive and offer
huge opportunity for unlocking value in the long run.
The Indian market landscape for TV viewers stands at 141 million TV
homes today and is second only to USA and China. The huge market
coupled with initiatives from Government and industry are shaping the
opportunity for future to innovate and present the consumer in many
ways for viewing content and experiencing content. This consolidation
coupled with digitization is expected to push broadband into households
and increase the share of cable broadband significantly.
Grant Investrade Limited (GIL):
GIL was formed as a special purpose vehicle for holding stake in IMCL
along with Investors. GIL currently holds 6.13% stake in IMCL. Post
exit of investor from GIL, it has become wholly owned subsidiary of HVL
in the last year.
IDL Specialty Chemicals Limited (IDL):
IDL is a wholly owned subsidiary of company and has a valuable piece of
land being 4.75 Acres at Kukatpally in Hyderabad. IDL purchased this
land at Rs. 25.17 crores in the financial year 2010-11. IDL has plans
to monetize this real estate piece of land. Besides IDL has portfolio
of shares, IDL has some tax benefits of Rs. 69 crores in the form of
brought forward losses which will be used appropriately for the
upcoming business of the Company.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with the Accounting Standard AS-21 on Consolidated
Financial Statements read with Accounting Standard AS-23 on Accounting
for Investments in Associates and AS-27 on Financial Reporting of
Interest in Joint Ventures, the audited Consolidated Financial
Statements are provided in the Annual Report.
Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India vide its circular
no. 2/2011 dated 8th February 2011 has provided general exemption from
Compliance of Sub- Section 212(8) of the Companies Act, 1956. In view
of the exemption from compliance of section 212(8) of the Act, the
Balance Sheet, Profit and Loss Account and other documents of the
subsidiary companies are not being attached with the Balance Sheet of
the Company. Financial information of the subsidiary companies, as
required by the said general approval, is disclosed in the Annual
Report. The Company will make available the Annual Accounts of the
subsidiary companies and the related detailed information to any member
of the Company who may be interested in obtaining the same. The annual
accounts of the subsidiary companies will also be kept open for
inspection at the Registered Office of the Company. The Consolidated
Financial Statements presented by the Company includes financial
results of its subsidiary companies.
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Your Company has, on a continuous basis, endeavored to increase
awareness among its stakeholders and in the market place about the
Companys strategy, new developments and financial performance as per
rules laid down by the Regulatory Authority like SEBI etc.
Your Companys senior management members actively participate as
speakers in seminars organised by industry, associations and Government
forums or as members of taskforces and technical committees.
Brand building of the organization is being given further impetus and
your Company is poised to achieve positive results out of these
efforts.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO) AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)
CERTIFICATION
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Certification as required under clause 49 of the Listing Agreement,
and Chief Executive Officers declaration about code of conduct are
furnished in Annexure - A and A-1 to this report.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE
EARNINGS AND OUTGO
Considering the nature of the business of your Company, there are no
particulars to be disclosed relating to the Conservation of Energy,
Research and Development & Technology Absorption pursuant to Section
217(1)(e) of the Companies Act, 1956 during the year under review.
The details of foreign exchange earnings and outgo are given in
Annexure - B to this report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
A detailed report on Corporate Governance in compliance with listing
agreements forms part of Annexure à D
The Statutory Auditors of your Company have examined the Companys
compliance and have certifi ed the same as required under the listing
agreements. The certificate is reproduced as Annexure - E.
Further, a separate Management Discussion and Analysis Report covering
a wide range of issues relating to performance, outlook etc., is
annexed as Annexure - F.
FIXED DEPOSITS
Your Company has not accepted any fixed deposits from the public and
as such, no amount of principal or interest was outstanding as on the
balance sheet date.
INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND THEIR ADEQUACY
The Company maintains an adequate system of internal control to ensure
that all assets are safeguarded against loss from unauthorised use or
disposition. Company policies, guidelines and procedures are in place
to ensure that all transactions are authorised, recorded and reported
correctly.
DIRECTORS
Mr. Dilip Panjwani, who was manager under section 2(24) of the
Companies Act, 1956 was elevated as Additional Director of the Company.
He will act as Executive Director to spearhead finance and business of
the Company and will be Whole Time Director of the Company. Being an
Additional Director appointed by Board, his appointment as Director
would require approval of shareholders as he would hold office upto
the date of this Annual General Meeting under section 260 of the
Companies Act, 1956.
Mr. R. P. Chitale and Mr. H. C. Asher, Directors of your Company are
liable to retire by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and
being eligible, offer themselves for re-appointment.
Mr. Prabal Banerjee, Director has resigned from the Board effective 7th
December 2010. Mr. Srinivas Palakodeti, being Alternate to Mr. Prabal
Banerjee also resigned from the Board effective 7th December 2010.
The Board places on record its deep sense of appreciation for the
invaluable contributions made by Mr. Prabal Banerjee and Mr. Srinivas
Palakodeti during their tenure as directors of the Company.
DIRECTORS RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Pursuant to Section 217(2AA) of the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2000
your Directors, based on the information and documents made available
to them, confirm that:
i) in the preparation of annual accounts for year ending 31st March
2011, the applicable accounting standards have been followed;
ii) appropriate accounting policies have been selected and applied
consistently. Judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
have been made so as to give a true and fair view of the state of
affairs of your Company as on 31st March 2011 and of the profit of
your Company for the year ended 31st March 2011;
iii) proper and sufficient care to the best of their knowledge and
ability has been taken for the maintenance of adequate accounting
records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956
for safeguarding the assets of your Company and for preventing and
detecting fraud and other irregularities;
iv) The annual accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis.
AUDITORS
M/s Deloitte Haskins & Sells, Chartered Accountants, the Statutory
Auditors of your Company, retire at the conclusion of the forthcoming
Annual General Meeting of the Company and being eligible offer
themselves for re-appointment. The Board recommends their appointment.
EMPLOYEES PARTICULARS
Particulars of employees as required under Section 217(2A) of the
Companies Act, 1956 and the Companies (Particulars of Employees) Rules
1975 as amended, form part of this report is annexed as Annexure - C.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Your Board takes this opportunity to thank the Companys Employees,
Customers, vendors, business partners, shareholders and bankers for the
faith reposed in the Company and also to thank various regulatory
authorities and agencies for their support and looks forward to their
continued encouragement.
Annexure A To the Directors Report
Certificate in terms of Clause 49 of the Listing Agreement.
a. We have reviewed the financial statements and the cash fl ow
statement for the year and that to the best of our knowledge and
belief:
i. these statements do not contain any materially untrue statement or
omit any material fact or contain statements that might be misleading;
ii. these statements together present a true and fair view of the
companys affairs and are in compliance with existing accounting
standards, applicable laws and regulations.
b. There are, to the best of our knowledge and belief, no transactions
entered into by the company during the year which are fraudulent,
illegal or violative of the companys code of conduct.
c. We accept responsibility for establishing and maintaining internal
controls for financial reporting and that we have evaluated the
effectiveness of internal control systems of the company pertaining to
financial reporting and we have disclosed to the Auditors and the
Audit Committee, deficiencies in the design or operation of such
internal controls, if any, of which we are aware and the steps they
have taken or propose to take to rectify these deficiencies.
d. We have indicated to the auditors and the Audit Committee that
there are;
i. no significant changes in internal control over financial
reporting during the year;
ii. no significant changes in accounting policies during the year and
that the same have been disclosed in the notes to the financial
statements; and
iii. no instances of significant fraud of which they have become aware
and the involvement therein, if any, of the management or an employee
having a significant role in the companys internal control system over
financial reporting.
Confirmation towards Code of Conduct:
I hereby confirm that all the Board Members and Senior Management
Personnel have affirmed Compliance with the Code of Conduct for the
year ending 31st March 2011.
Particulars pursuant to Companies (Disclosure of Particulars in the
Report of the Board of Directors) Rules, 1988.
Information required to be provided under Section 217(1)(e) of the
Companies Act, 1956 read with the Companies (Disclosures of Particulars
in the report of the Board of Directors) Rules, 1988 in relation to
Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption and Research and
development are currently not applicable to the Company.
For and on behalf of the Board
Place : Mumbai Ashok P. Hinduja
Date : 10th May 2011 Executive Chairman
Mar 31, 2010
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the business and operating
report for the year ended March 31, 2010 and Twenty Fifth Annual Report
of your company.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
(Rs. in million)
Consolidated Standalone
For the year ended 31st March 2010 2009 2010 2009
Total income 4,017.11 3,459.98 804.90 586.68
Total expenses 3,179.97 2,772.94 342.36 107.46
Proft before tax 837.14 687.04 462.54 479.22
Provision for tax (incl.
deferred tax) 117.57 129.80 71.68 149.14
Proft after tax 719.57 557.24 390.86 330.08
Share of Loss from Associates - 0.12 - -
Minority Interest 113.79 89.40 - -
Proft After Minority Interest 605.78 467.96 390.86 330.08
Review of financials
Year 2009-10 saw a signifcant improvement in the overall business
environment in the Country, as India emerged from low growth period of
2008-09. The stock markets have recovered substantially from the lows
of March 2009 and customer spending and advertising spending have
recovered.
Your Company posted healthy results in Financial Year 2009-10 with the
Consolidated Income growing by 16.10% from Rs. 3,459.98 mn to Rs.
4,017.11 mn Consolidated Profts after accounting for Taxes and Minority
Interest grew by 29.44% from Rs. 467.96 mn to Rs. 605.78 mn The
increase in revenues and profts was driven primarily by the growth of
cable subsidiary of the Company viz IndusInd Media and Communications
Limited (ÃIMCLÃ).
On a standalone basis, the Company recorded excellent results with the
total Income increasing by 37.19% from Rs. 586.68 mn to Rs. 804.90 mn
and Proft After Taxes by 18.42% from Rs. 330.08 mn to Rs. 390.86 mn.
DIVIDEND
The Board is pleased to recommend Dividend payment of Rs. 10 per Equity
Share (100% Dividend on face value of Rs.10 per Equity Share) for
Financial Year 2009-10. The current year Dividend will result in payout
of Rs. 239.70 mn including Dividend Distribution Tax representing
61.33% of the current year earnings.
TRANSFERR T0 RESERVES
As a result of dividend declaration, your Company proposes to transfer
Rs. 39.09 mn to the General Reserve and carry forward an amount of Rs.
3,778.25 mn as Balance in the Profit and Loss account.
REAL ESTATE
While the overall business environment in the country has improved
signifcantly, the real estate market continuous to be subdued. The
Company continuous to hold its real estate property in Bangalore and is
evaluating ways to optimize the utilisation of this valuable asset at
an appropriate time post receipt of all clearances.
fibre optic cable network
During Financial Year 2009-10, the Company has invested in Media &
Communications Infrastructure by laying 350 kms of Intra City Fibre
Optic Network which is two way enabled. The Company expects to generate
revenues from this network by leasing it to telecom companies, cable TV
companies, internet service providers and other potential users.
subsidiaries:
(i) Grant investrade limited (Gil):
During the year, your Company has consolidated its stake in GIL from
51% to 100%. As a result, the CompanyÃs effective stake in IMCL has
increased from 62.78% to 65.78%.
(ii) IDL speciality chemicals limited (IDL):
During the year under review, the Company has purchased 100% equity
shares of IDL. By virtue of the acquisition of the shares in IDL, IDL
became wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.
(iii) HTMT Telecom private limited (HTPL):
The Company continues to hold 100% stake in HTPL. The Company awaits
appropriate opportunity to enter telecom sector.
Directorsà Report
(iv) Media:
indusind Media and communications limited (IMCL):
IMCL, the Cable Subsidiary of the Company, along with its Joint
Ventures and subsidiaries continued its strong performance during
Financial Year 2009-10. While most of the other Multi Systems Operator
(MSOs) have reported net losses, IMCL has out-performed its peers by
reporting net proft for the last few years. Consolidated EBIDTA of IMCL
for the year was Rs. 690.17 mn on Total Income of Rs. 3,285.97 mn.
Consolidated Net Proft for the year grew from Rs. 245.82 mn to Rs.
326.58 mn.
With a view to providing focus on the core activity of distribution of
cable television and Broadband internet services, IMCL has demerged its
content business comprising the movie library, CVO Channel etc. into IN
Entertainment (India) Limited (ÃIEILÃ), an associate of IMCL.
IMCL now has a reach of approximately 8 mn cable homes for its Analogue
cable television services (INCABLENET). IMCL has over 6,700 kms of
Hybrid Fiber Optic Cable, of which 80% is two way enabled to the nodes.
It is spread over 27 cities which include major metros, like Mumbai,
Thane, Delhi, NOIDA, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Vadodra, Belgaum and others,
having signifcant weightage in television rating measurement studies.
IMCLÃs digital cable service (Indigital) provides around 240 channels
(including Radio/Audio Channels). This is the highest number of
channels provided by any digital cable distribution platform in India.
IMCLÃs foray into other cities has provided impetus for cable
digitalization and expansion. The Company has installed over 400,000
digital set top boxes in Conditional Access System (CAS) areas as well
as non CAS areas. It has already established eight digital Headends in
India, covering about 12 cities, including key metro cities.
IMCL is one of IndiaÃs largest independent MSO, with a triple play
Platform through Cable. IMCL also has a nationwide Internet Service
Provider (ISP) license and is an active Grade 1 ISP player in the
Indian Market, providing broadband services (IN2CABLE) and bandwidth to
both corporate and retail customers.
IMCLÃs associate company ÃPlanet E-Shop Holdings (India) Limited
(ÃPESÃ)Ã has received permission (from Government of India) for
downlinking Foreign Channels for exclusive Distribution and Marketing
Rights. Currently PES is distributing/ marketing few channels in
selected areas in both commercial and retail.
Scheme of Arrangement:
IMCL entered into Scheme of Arrangement under Section 391 to 394 of the
Companies Act, 1956 with IN Entertainment (India) Limited (IEIL), an
associate company for transferring its content division for a
consideration of Rs. 84.46 mn in the form of 84,46,120, 7% Cumulative
preference shares of Rs. 10/- each of IEIL.
The scheme of arrangement as filed by IMCL was sanctioned by the
Honorable High Court of Judicature at Bombay on 26th March 2010.
FUTURE OUTLOOK Ã MEDIA SECTOR:
As per the report of Media Partners Associates (MPA) 2010, as of end
2009, out of the estimated 220 mn homes in India, around 60% i.e. 134
mn homes have TV sets. Of the 134 mn TV homes, around 65% have Cable TV
(analog and digital).
MPA estimates that the Cable TV homes would grow at around 2% per annum
to around 110 mn homes by 2020. Digital Cable is estimated to grow at
around 23% per annum and is expected to touch around 29 mn homes by
2020. This rapid growth in digital cable homes will increase share of
digital cable from around 3% in 2009 to around 26% in 2020.
Analog Cable TV can deliver a maximum of 100 television channels. The
number of channels available in India has increased from around 120 in
2003 to over 500 in 2010. This growth has been through launch of
regional channels, news channels and niche channels. Availability of a
larger number of channels, alongwith better picture quality, choice of
audio tracks, electronic programme guides and value added services are
expected to be the major drivers for digital cable.
Cable TV would need to face the challenges posed by the alternate
digital delivery platforms such as DTH, IP T V, Mobile TV etc. The
ability of digital cable TV to deliver services at affordable rates and
prompt customer care through local cable operators would be key
advantages the digital cable would have over alternate delivery
platforms.
Through digitizing and building two way networks, Multi System
Operators (MSOs) can also deliver broadband television services. As on
31st March 2010, India has around 8.75 mn broadband (speed of more than
256 Kbps) subscribers. Cable modem subscribers account for a mere 0.485
mn subscribers i.e. a mere 5%. Thus there exists enormous potential for
growth of broadband services.
The Government of India is considering various options for phasing out
analog cable television services to pave way for digital cable
television services apart from measures such as extending the CAS
regime to other parts of metros and other cities.
According to MPA, the Cable TV subscription business has been estimated
at US$ 3.6 bn in 2009 which is expected to touch US$ 7.7 bn by 2020.
The cable television industry is highly fragmented with majority of the
homes serviced by local cable operators and Independent System
Operators (ISOs).
Growth of digital cable and broadband internet services would require
signifcant amounts of capital and management expertise. The profle of
the cable television industry is expected to change signifcantly in the
coming years through the consolidation of the local cable television
operators and ISOs.
IMCLS FUTURE PLAN FOR GROWTH:
Cable TV and Broadband à To increase Digital, Internet & VoIP customer
base:
The cable television industry has been undergoing rapid changes with
more competition from existing and new players, consolidation and
regulatory recommendations for an orderly and transparent system. All
these industry dynamics are expected to beneft IMCL in the long run.
IMCL plans to continue to expand into key Tier II cities for its analog
and digital services. IMCL proposes to continue making its investments
in intra city fbre networks in order to have a robust backbone for
delivering its services. In order to have a pan India footprint, IMCL
is examining options such as Headend in the Sky (HITS) and
building/lease inter-city fbre.
IMCL has the capability to provide IP to IP (Internet Protocol to
Internet Protocol) calls within the country and IP to PSTN/ PLMN
(Public Switched Telephone Network / Public Land Mobile Network) lines
internationally.
Increased Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) plan:
IMCL is planning an increased ARPU for digital homes by providing value
added services eg. Video on Demand and Pay Per view, Games, Oline
Shopping and other interactive services. The Broadband connectivity
increase will also help IMCL to open up other revenue streams.
CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS
IMCL has in the year under review expanded through alliances,
partnerships, strategic investments and joint ventures as part of the
growth strategy for its business. IMCL has made 51% equity
participation in some Companies and consolidated its holdings in a
couple of companies, which are in the cable business, in view of
expanding its presence in different regions of India. By virtue of
acquisition of a majority holding by IMCL, these Companies have become
indirect subsidiaries of the Company.
The Company has been granted exemption from attaching the fInancial
statements of the subsidiary companies in the annual report of the
Company for the Financial Year 2009-10 under Section 212(8) of the
Companies Act, 1956. A statement of summarized financials of all
subsidiaries of the Company, forms part of this report.
Information in respect of the subsidiary companies of the Company will
be made available to members on request.
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC RELATION
Your Company has, on a continuous basis, endeavored to increase
awareness among its stakeholders and in the market place about the
CompanyÃs strategy, new developments and fInancial performance as per
rules laid down by the Regulatory Authority like SEBI etc.
Your CompanyÃs senior management members actively participate as
speakers in seminars organised by industry associations and Government
forums or as members of taskforces and technical committees.
Parallely, internal communication and brand building within the
organization is being given further impetus and your Company is poised
to achieve positive results out of these efforts.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER(CEO) AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER CERTIFICATION
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Offcer Certifcation
as required under clause 49 of the Listing Agreement, and Chief
Executive Offcer (CEO) declaration about code of conduct are furnished
in Annexure-A and A-1 to this report.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE
EARNINGS AND OUTGO
Considering the nature of the business of your Company, there are no
particulars to be disclosed relating to the year under review in
respect of Conservation of Energy, Research and Development &
Technology Absorption pursuant to Section 217(1)(e) of the Companies
Act, 1956.
There are Foreign Exchange earnings, however there is no outgo of
foreign exchange during the year. The details are given in Annexure-B
to this report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
A detailed report on Corporate Governance in compliance with listing
agreements forms part of AnnexureÃC.
The Statutory Auditors of your Company have examined the CompanyÃs
compliance and have certifed the same as required under the listing
agreements. The certifcate is reproduced as Annexure-D.
Further, a separate Management Discussion and Analysis Report covering
a wide range of issues relating to performance, outlook etc., is
annexed as Annexure-E.
EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION PLAN (ESOPS)
The disclosures required to be made under the Securities and Exchange
Board of India (Employee Stock Option Scheme and Employee Stock
Purchase Scheme) Guidelines, 1999 in respect of The ESOP plan ÃHinduja
TMT Ltd. Employees Stock Option Plan 2001Ã (the ÃplanÃ) are given in
Annexure à F to this report.
The Company has not granted any fresh ESOPs during the year.
The exercise period for the ESOPs granted in the two tranches has
lapsed during the year, accordingly the Scheme of ESOPs stands
completed.
FIXED DEPOSITS
Your Company has not accepted any fxed deposits from the public and, as
such, no amount of principal or interest was outstanding as on the
balance sheet date.
INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND THEIR ADEQUACY The Company maintains an
adequate system of internal control to ensure that all assets are
safeguarded against loss from unauthorised use or disposition. Company
policies, guidelines and procedures are in place to ensure that all
transactions are authorised, recorded and reported correctly.
DIRECTORS
Mr. Prakash Shah and Mr. Prabal Banerjee, Directors of your Company are
liable to retire by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and
being eligible, offer themselves for re-appointment.
Mr. Srinivas Palakodeti was appointed as an Alternate Director to Mr.
Prabal Banerjee with effect from 1st February 2010.
DIRECTORS RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Pursuant to Section 217(2AA) of the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2000
your Directors, based on the information and documents made available
to them, confrm that:
i) in the preparation of annual accounts for year ending 31st March
2010, the applicable accounting standards have been followed;
ii) appropriate accounting policies have been selected and applied
consistently. Judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
have been made so as to give a true and fair view of the state of
affairs of your Company as on 31st March 2010 and of the proft of your
Company for the year ended 31st March 2010;
iii) Proper and sufficient care to the best of their knowledge and
ability has been taken for the maintenance of adequate accounting
records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956
for safeguarding the assets of your Company and for preventing and
detecting fraud and other irregularities;
iv) The annual accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis.
AUDITORS
M/s. Price Waterhouse, Chartered Accountants, the Statutory Auditors of
your Company and retiring auditors in view of other commitments have
expressed their unwillingness to be re-apponted at the ensuing Annual
General Meeting. Your Board has placed on record its appreciation for
invaluable guidance and immense support extended by M/s. Price
Waterhouse, Chartered Accountants over the years as Statutory Auditors
of the Company.
Your Company has received a letter from M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells,
Chartered Accountants, Mumbai showing interest to be appointed as the
Statutory Auditors of the Company.
The Audit Committee has recommended the appointment of M/s. Deloitte
Haskins & Sells, Chartered Accountants, Mumbai as Statutory Auditors of
the Company. Your Board recommends their appointment, subject to
approval of shareholders. The resolution for appointment of M/s.
Deloitte Haskins & Sells, Chartered Accountants, Mumbai as Statutory
Auditors in place of the retiring Auditors will be placed before the
shareholders at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. If approved, their
appointment will be within the limits prescribed under section 224(1B)
of the Companies Act, 1956.
EMPLOYEES PARTICULARS
Particulars of employees as required under Section 217(2A) of the
Companies Act, 1956 and the Companies (Particulars of Employees) Rules,
1975 as amended, form part of this report. However, in accordance with
the provisions of Section 219(1)(b)(iv) of the Companies Act, 1956 this
report is being sent to all the shareholders of the Company excluding
the aforesaid information. Members interested in obtaining the said
information may write to the Company Secretary at the registered offce
of the Company.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Your Board takes this opportunity to thank to the CompanyÃs emplyees,
customers, vendors, business partners, shareholders and bankers for the
faith reposed in the Company and also to thank various regulatory
authorities and agencies for their support and looks forward to their
continued encouragement.
For and on behalf of the Board
Place : Mumbai A. P. Hinduja
Date : 11th June 2010 Executive Chairman