Dear Members,
The Directors have pleasure to present their 37th Annual
Report on the business and operations of the Company and the Audited Financial Statements
for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Financial Results
The Company's standalone and consolidated financial performance
for the year ended March 31, 2024 is summarized below:
(Rs In Lakhs)
Particulars |
Standalone |
Consolidated |
|
2023-24 |
2022-23 |
2023-24 |
2022-23 |
Revenue from Operation |
67245.00 |
59780.35 |
77749.29 |
70168.72 |
Other Income |
809.90 |
661.40 |
406.51 |
293.38 |
Total Income |
68054.91 |
60441.74 |
78155.80 |
70462.10 |
Profit before Depreciation, other income , Interest and Tax |
8575.57 |
6865.36 |
10513.41 |
8573.61 |
(PBDIT) |
|
|
|
|
Interest for the year |
1252.17 |
1499.73 |
1646.21 |
1776.32 |
Depreciation for the year |
1158.88 |
1163.19 |
1434.93 |
1380.45 |
Profit/(Loss) before tax and Exceptional items |
6974.42 |
4863.85 |
7838.78 |
5710.22 |
Exceptional items |
155.56 |
- |
155.56 |
- |
Profit/(loss) for the year |
6818.85 |
4863.85 |
7683.22 |
5710.22 |
Add: Share of net profit/(loss) of equity accounted investee |
- |
- |
15.26 |
9.02 |
Tax liability :- |
|
|
|
|
Current Tax |
1750.26 |
1285.13 |
2012.48 |
1584.55 |
Deferred Tax |
53.30 |
(36.51) |
69.98 |
(61.48) |
Prior period Tax |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Net Profit/(Loss) for the year |
5015.29 |
3615.23 |
5616.03 |
4196.17 |
Dividend:
Your Directors have pleasure to recommend a dividend @ 25% i.e. H1.25/-
on equity share of H 5/- each for the financial year ended March 31, 2024. The dividend,
if approved by the members in the ensuing Annual General Meeting, would absorb H441.08
Lakhs out of the distributable profits available.
Dividend Distribution Policy of the Company as per the SEBI (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (Listing
Regulations') is available at the following link: https://www.20microns.com/corporate-governance-policies-codes
Transfer to Reserves
The Directors do not propose to transfer any amount to reserves.
State of Company's Affairs
During the year under consideration, following financial developments
have taken place -
Total Income for the FY24 was H68054.91 Lakhs as against
H60441.74 Lakhs in FY23. The income is increased by 12.6% YOY.
For FY24 EBIDTA was at H8575.57 Lakhs compared to H6865.36 Lakhs
in FY23
The PAT for FY24 stood at H5015.29 Lakhs compare to H3615.23
Lakhs in FY23.
Company's debt-equity ratio remains same as 0.30 in 2024
and in 2023. While Net debt-equity ratio came to 0.18 in FY24 from 0.23 in FY23
Net Worth of the Company is increased to H32327.67 Lakhs as on
March 31, 2024 as compared to H26959.49 Lakhs as on March 31, 2023.
Investors Education and Protection Fund
During the year, Company was not liable to transfer any amount to the
Investor Education and Protection Fund as required under Section 124 and 125 of the
Companies Act, 2013. Pursuant to the provisions of Investor Education and Protection Fund
(Uploading of Information regarding unpaid and unclaimed amounts lying with Companies)
Rules, 2012, the Company has uploaded the details of unpaid and unclaimed amounts lying
with the Company as on 31.03.2024 on the website of the Company, at web link - https://www.20microns.com/unpaid-dividend-deposit/
Material Changes and commitments affecting financial position between
the end of the financial year and the date of report
No material changes affecting financial position of the Company
occurred between the end of the financial year and the date of report.
Corporate Governance Report and Management Discussions & Analysis
As required by Schedule V(C) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and
Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, a detailed Report on Corporate Governance is
given as a part of the Annual Report. The Company is in full compliance with the
requirements and disclosures that have to be made in this regard. The
Practicing Company Secretary Certificate of the compliance with
Corporate Governance requirements by the Company is attached to the Report on Corporate
Governance.
A detailed report on Management Discussions and Analysis forms an
integral part of this report and also covers the consolidated operations and nature of our
business.
Fixed Deposits
The Company accepts deposits only from the shareholders of the company
pursuant to the provisions of Companies Act, 2013 and Rules made thereunder.
As on 31.03.2024, outstanding Unsecured Fixed Deposits from
Shareholders was H2661.28 Lakhs. Deposits amounting to H1761.59 Lakhs are due for
repayment on or before 31.03.2025.
|
Details |
Amount of deposit renewed during the year |
1463.47 Lakhs |
Remained unpaid / unclaimed as at the end of the year |
Nil |
Whether there is any default in repayment, if yes then
provide details as below: |
There is no default in repayment of deposits
or interest due thereon during the year under review. |
Particulars |
Amount |
At the beginning of the year |
0.00 |
Maximum during the year |
0.00 |
At the end of the year |
0.00 |
Subsidiaries, Joint Ventures & Associates
Pursuant to Section 129(3) of the Companies Act, 2013
("Act"), the consolidated financial statements of the Company and its
subsidiaries, Associate Company prepared in accordance with the relevant Accounting
Standard specified under Section 133 of the Act, read with Rule 7 of the Companies
(Accounts) Rules, 2014, form part of this Annual Report. Pursuant to the provisions of the
said section, a statement containing the salient features of the financial statements of
the Company's subsidiaries, in Form AOC-1 is given in Annexure-A.
During the year, the Company has entered into Joint Venture Agreement
with Sievert Baustoffe Auslandsbeteiligungen GmbH, a Germany company for the purpose of
establishing a Joint Venture Company (limited by shares) in India for manufacturing of
Construction Chemicals and Building Material related products.
Further, pursuant to the provisions of Section 136 of the Act, the
Standalone & Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and separate audited
financial statements along with other relevant documents, in respect of subsidiaries and
associate, are available on the website of the Company at www.20microns.com with web link https://www.20microns.
com/annual-reports-of-all-subsidiaries. These documents will also be available for
inspection through electronic mode in AGM.
Performance Highlights of Subsidiaries
As on 31.03.2024, the Company had 5 [Five] Subsidiaries viz. 20 Microns
Nano Minerals Limited [20 M NANO]; 20 Microns SDN. BHD [20MSB], 20 Microns FZE [20MFZE],
20 Microns Vietnam Company Ltd [20M Vietnam], 20 MCC Private Limited [20MCC], and 1 [one]
Associate Company viz., Dorfner-20 Microns Private Limited [D20MPL]. During the year under
review, the financial highlights of the above Subsidiaries and Associate are as under:
( in Lakhs)
Name of |
Revenue of FY24 |
Profit of FY24 |
Subsidiaries/ |
|
|
Associate |
|
|
20 M NANO |
9213.86 |
324.40 |
20 MSB |
227.68 |
(35.03) |
20 M FZE |
428.70 |
30.02 |
20M VIETNAM |
963.65 |
309.44 |
20MCC |
585.87 |
38.44 |
D20MPL |
331.56 |
33.92 |
Companies which have become or ceased to be Subsidiaries, Associates
and Joint Ventures
During the FY24, no company ceased as subsidiary or associate or joint
venture of the company, except the step down subsidiary viz. Silicate Minerals [India]
Private Limited, which got amalgamated with Company's one of the subsidiaries
20 Microns Nano Minerals Limited and certified copy of the Order passed by the
Hon'ble NCLT at Ahmedabad was received during FY24 i.e. on 09.06.2023. For further
analysis on the consolidated performance, attention is invited to the notes to the
consolidated financial statements.
Particulars of Employees
The information as required under Section 197 of the Act read with Rule
5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014
are given in Annexure B which forms part of this report. Pursuant to Section
197(14) of the Act, the details of remuneration received by the Managing Directors from
the subsidiary company during FY 2023-24 are also given in Annexure B attached to this
report. None of the employees listed in the said Annexure B are related to any
Directors of the Company.
The statement containing particulars of employees as required under
section 197 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(2) of the Companies (Appointment
and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, will be provided upon request by
shareholders.
In terms of Section 136 of the Companies Act, 2013, the Report and
accounts are being sent to the members and others entitled thereto, excluding the
information on employees' particulars which is available for inspection by members at
the registered office of the Company during business hours on working days of the Company
up-to the ensuing Annual General Meeting.
Related Party Transactions
There were no material related party transactions made by the Company
during the year that require shareholders' approval under Regulation 23(4) of the
Listing Regulations or Section 188 of the Act. All related party transactions are reported
to the Audit Committee. Prior approval of the Audit Committee is obtained on a yearly
basis for the transactions which are planned and/or repetitive in nature.
Policy for determining material related party is available at link https://www.20microns.com/corporate-governance-policies-codes
Particulars of transactions with related parties referred to in Section
188(1) of the Companies Act, 2013, in the prescribed Form AOC-2 is annexed in Annexure
C hereto.
Annual Return
The Annual Return for the Financial Year 2023-24 in prescribed Form No.
MGT-7, as required under Section 92(1) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 11 of the
Companies (Management and Administration) Rules, 2014 is placed on the Company's Website
at web link: https://www.20microns.com/ annual-returns
Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption, Foreign Exchange
Earnings & Outgo
Information as per Companies (Disclosure of particulars in the Report
of Board of Directors) Rules, 1988 relating to conservation of energy, technology
absorption, foreign exchange earnings and outgo are given in Annexure - D forming
part of this report.
Corporate Social Responsibility
In compliance with Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, the Company
had undertaken CSR activities, projects and programs as provided in the CSR policy of the
Company and as identified under Schedule VII to the Act..
The Board has framed a CSR Policy for the Company, on the
recommendations of the CSR Committee and same can be accessed at web-link https://www.20microns.com/corporate-governance-policies-codes.
The Report on CSR activities as required under Companies (Corporate
Social Responsibility) Rules, 2014, including a brief outline of the Company's CSR
Policy, total amount to be spent under CSR for the financial year and details of amount
spent on CSR during the year is set out at Annexure E forming part of this Report.
ANNUAL ACTIVITIES BY 20MICRONS FOUNDATION DIABETES CENTER DURING FY24.
We have 219 Juvenile patients registered with us. Compared to previous
year, Total 31 patients (Boys 19 + Girls 12) are increased. All of them are under the
watch and availing facility given by us. They are taken to most reputed senior doctors
(doing practice at Vadodara) for consultancy and now they are settled with comfortable
life. To manage the work at Diabetes Center and to reduce the fear of the parents and
patients, (having age group of more than 18 years) are called by us and allowing them to
work for the center.
Every month, we are receiving new Juvenile patients from the Government
and Private Hospitals located inside, outside & surrounding areas of Vadodara. We are
providing them Insulin, Glucometer, Strips, and other stuffs related to Diabetes free of
cost. We have arranged experienced doctors from Vadodara to visit our center and check the
health of Type 1 patients. Doctors are giving education to parents and making them
understood the fact of the diabetes.
On 23rd April 2023, camp was organized at Tanakhla, Ambamata
Mandir. Total 213 patients were checked for Diabetes.
On 3rd September 2023, we have organized an Eye checkup camp
for all Type 1 patients registered with us at no cost. Approximately more than 57 patients
visited the facility of Dr. Anal Shah, at Global Hospital, Manjalpur, Vadodara.
A yoga camp was organized on 24th September 2023. Total 38
patients attended Diabetes Yoga Camp at Avichal Garden, Diwalipura, Vadodara.
On 1st October 2023, A 20Microns Foundation delegation of
total 6 persons (Mr. Anand Honwadkar + 5 Type 1 patients) was invited by M/s. Dia Con
Foundation, Ahmedabad, organized by Dr. Bansi Sabu in the event of distribution of AWARD
on account of giving best services to Type 1 child and parents in the state of Gujarat.
Mr. Anand Honwadkar received the award from Ms.Mallika Sarabhai, Ms. Manjula Pooja Shroff
& Ms. Ruzan Khambatta on behalf of 20Microns Foundation.
On 3rd December 2023, on the day of WORLD DIABETES DAY, we
have arranged a function at M.S. University, Social Faculty Hall. More than 200 patients
including parents attended the function and expert doctors Dr. Mudrik Patel given a speech
to all in connection with the latest researches done by WORLD DIABETES ASSOCIATION, UK.
Dr. Swati Dhruv from M. S. University, Department of Food & Nutrition also given a
guideline for parents to arrange food for Type 1 Diabetic Patients.
On 7th January 2024, 20Microns Foundation participated in
VADODARA MARATHON. Total 87 persons including Type 1 patients & Parents run in the FUN
RUN event of 5 Kilometers.
On 30th January 2024, we have visited Maharshi School,
Karodiya, Undera, Vadodara. We have checked 100 students of different standard classes. On
the same day, we have visited Vithal Vidyalay, Near Genda Circle, Race course. We have
checked 130 students of different standard classes. We have not found any TYPE 1 Student.
On 31st January, 2024, we have visited Om School, Vadsar,
Vadodara. We have checked 93 students of different standards and have not found any TYPE 1
student.
On 2nd February 2024, executed a camp for checkup of
Diabetes at village Chalamali near Kosindra, Gujarat. Total 295 patients were checked for
diabetes and found approximately 55 people found having diabetes. Our appointed doctor had
given medicine to 55 people for 15 days FREE OF COST and asked them to meet doctor and
take further advice.
On 23rd February 2024, Camp is completed at Village Makani,
Near Sankheda, Gujarat. Total 355 patients visited the camp for diabetes checkup.
Approximately 62 patients were found having diabetes and were given medicine for 15 days
FREE OFF COST.
Impact of giving a FREE medicine to the diabetic patients of interior
villages, need to be verified. On the basis of the same, decision shall be taken for
continuation of the same or not.
It is also under the process that now we shall start again visit the
location (Second Time) to visualize the effect of previous camp what sort of changes or
improvement is required to be done.
Risk Management Implementation
The Company operates in a competitive environment and is generally
exposed to various risks at different times such as technological risks, business risks,
operational risks, financial risks etc. The Board of Directors and Audit Committee of
Directors of the Company periodically review the Risk of the Company so that the
Management controls the risk through properly defined network. The Company has a system
based approach to the business risk management backed by strong internal control systems.
A range of responsibilities from strategy to the operations is
specified. A strong independent internal audit function at the corporate level carries out
risk focused audits across all the businesses enabling identification of areas where risk
managements processes may need to be improved. The Board reviews internal audit findings
and provides strategic guidance on internal control, monitors internal control environment
within the Company and ensures that Internal Audit recommendations are effectively
implemented. The combination of policies and procedures adequately addresses the various
risks associated with your company's businesses.
Internal Finance Control System Adequacy
The Company has established proper and adequate system of internal
control to ensure that all resources are put to optimum use and are well protected against
loss and all transactions are authorized, recorded and reported correctly and there is
proper adherence to policies and guidelines, safeguarding its assets, prevention and
detection of frauds and errors, accuracy and completeness of the accounting records and
timely preparation of reliable financial disclosures, processes in terms of efficiencies
and effectiveness. The Company's internal control systems are supplemented by an
extensive program of internal audit by an independent firm.
All the transactions are conducted using the IT interface and the
business processes are further audited by internal auditors.
The Company's internal control systems are also periodically
tested and certified by the internal auditors. The Audit Committee constituted by the
Board constantly reviews the internal control systems.
Vigil Mechanism / Whistle Blower Policy
The Vigil Mechanism of the Company, which also incorporates a whistle
blower policy has been approved and adopted by Board of Directors of the Company in
compliance with the provisions of Section 177 of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation 22
of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015.
The Whistle Blower Policy of the Company provides a mechanism for
employees/Board Members and others to raise good faith and concerns about violation of any
applicable law/Code of Conduct of the Company, gross wastage or misappropriation of funds,
substantial or specific danger to public health and safety, abuse of authority or
unethical behavior and to protect the individuals who take such actions from retaliation
or any threat of retaliation and also provides for direct access to the Chairman of the
Audit Committee, in exceptional cases. The functioning of the Vigil mechanism is reviewed
by the Audit Committee from time to time. During the financial year under review, the
Company has not received any complaints against any employees/Board Members.
The policy of vigil mechanism may be accessed on the Company's web
link - https://www.20microns.com/corporate-governance-policies-codes.
Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace b>
The Company has adopted a policy with the name "Policy on
Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace". The policy is applicable for all
employees of the organization, which includes corporate office, branches, depots and
manufacturing locations etc.
A Complaint Committee has also been set up to redress complaints
received on sexual harassment including such unwelcome sexually determined behavior,
whether directly or by implication, such as physical contact and advances, a demand or
request for sexual favours, sexually colored remarks, showing pornography, and any other
unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of sexual nature.
During the year under review, the HR Dept. had conducted training for
awareness on the subject PoSH, amongst the employees of the Company
During the financial year under review, the Company has not received
any complaint of sexual harassment.
The policy of Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace may be
accessed on the Company's web link - https://
www.20microns.com/corporate-governance-policies-codes
Industrial Relations
Industrial relations, during the year, remained co-cordial, healthy and
harmonious at all the locations of the Company across the country.
General Shareholders Information
General Shareholders Information is given in the Report on Corporate
Governance forming part of this Annual Report.
Secretarial Standards
Your company has complied with the provisions of all applicable
Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).
Particulars of Loan, Guarantees or Investments
Loans, guarantee and investment covered under Section 186 of the
Companies Act, 2013 form part of the notes to the financial statements provided in this
Annual Report.
Selection and Procedure for Nomination and Appointment of Directors
The Company has a Nomination and Remuneration Committee
("NRC") which is responsible for developing competency requirements for the
Board, based on the industry and strategy of the Company. The Board composition analysis
reflects in-depth understanding of the Company, including its strategies, environment,
operations, financial condition and compliance requirements.
The NRC makes recommendations to the Board in regard to appointment of
new Directors and Key Managerial Personnel ("KMP") and senior management
employees. The role of the NRC encompasses conducting a gap analysis to refresh the Board
on a periodic basis, including each time a Director's appointment or re-appointment
is required.
Criteria for determining qualifications, positive attributes and
independence of a Director
In terms of the provisions of Section 178(3) of the Companies Act,2013
and Regulation 19 of the SEBI (Listing obligation and disclosure Requirements)
Regulations,2015, the NRC has formulated the criteria for determining qualifications,
positive attributes and independence of Directors, the key features of which are as
follows:
Qualifications - The Board nomination process encourages
diversity of thought, experience, knowledge, age and gender. It also ensures that the
Board has an appropriate blend of functional and industry expertise.
Positive Attributes - Apart from the duties of Directors
as prescribed in the Act the Directors are expected to demonstrate higher standards of
ethical behavior, communication skills and independent judgment. The Directors are also
expected to abide by the respective Code of Conduct as applicable to them.
Independence - A Director will be considered independent
if he / she meets the criteria laid down in Section 149(6) of the Companies Act,2013 the
Rules framed thereunder and Regulation 16(1)(b) of the SEBI (Listing Regulations and
Obligations Requirements)Regulation, 2015 or any other provisions applicable as the case
may be.
Evaluation of Board of Directors
The Board of Directors has carried out an annual evaluation of its own
performance, Board Committees and individual directors pursuant to the provisions of the
Companies Act, 2013 and the Listing Regulations, 2015.
The Board evaluated its performance after seeking inputs from all the
Directors on the basis of criteria such as the Board composition and structure,
effectiveness of board processes, information and functioning, etc. The performance of the
Committees was evaluated by the Board after seeking inputs from the committee members on
the basis of criteria such as the composition of committees, effectiveness of committee
meetings, etc. The above criteria are as provided by the Guidance Note on Board Evaluation
issued by the Securities and Exchange Board of India.
Remuneration Policy
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 178(3) of the Act and Regulation
19 of the Listing Regulations, 2015, the NRC has formulated a policy relating to the
remuneration for the Directors, Key Managerial Personnel (KMP), Senior Management and
other employees. The philosophy for remuneration is based on the commitment of fostering a
culture of leadership with trust. While formulating this policy, the NRC has considered
the factors laid down in Section 178(4) of the Act which are as under:
That the level and composition of remuneration is reasonable and
sufficient to attract, retain and motivate Directors of the quality required to run the
company successfully;
Relationship of remuneration to performance is clear and meets
appropriate performance benchmarks; and
Remuneration to Directors, KMP and Senior Management Employees
involves a balance between fixed and incentive pay reflecting short and long-term
performance objectives appropriate to the working of the Company and its goals.
Remuneration Policy of the Company is available at link: https://
www.20microns.com/corporate-governance-policies-codes.
Remuneration for Independent Directors and
Non-Executive-Non-Independent Directors
The Non-Executive Directors, including Independent Directors, are paid
sitting fees for attending the meetings of the Board and committees of the Board. As per
the Policy, the overall remuneration (including sitting fees and commission) should be
reasonable and sufficient to attract, retain and motivate Directors aligned to the
requirements of the Company including considering the challenges faced by the Company and
its future growth imperatives. The remuneration should also be reflective of the size of
the Company, complexity of the business and the Company's capacity to pay the
remuneration.
Within the ceiling of 1% of net profits of the Company, computed under
the applicable provisions of the Act, the Non-Executive Directors including Independent
Directors were also paid a commission, the amount whereof was recommended by the NRC and
approved by the Board during FY 2023-24.
The basis of determining the specific amount of commission payable to a
Non-Executive Directors is related to their attendance at meetings, role and
responsibility as Chairman or member of the Board / Committees and overall contribution as
well as time spent on operational matters other than at the meetings.
Board of Directors and meetings
The members of the Company's Board of Directors are eminent
persons of proven competence and integrity. Besides experience, strong financial acumen,
strategic astuteness and leadership qualities, they have a significant degree of
commitment towards the Company and devote adequate time to the meetings and preparation.
The Board meets at regular intervals to discuss and decide on
Company/business policy and strategy apart from other regular Board businesses. Intimation
of Board Meeting date usually be given in advance to help them plan their schedule and
ensure meaningful participation in the meetings. In case of special and urgent business,
if the need arises, the Board's/Committee's approval is taken by passing
resolutions through circulation or by calling Board/Board Committee meetings at shorter
notice, by complying with the applicable law.
The Company has complied with Secretarial Standards issued by the
Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) on Board Meetings and General Meeting(s).
The agenda for the Board and Committee meetings includes detailed notes on the items to be
discussed to enable the Directors to take an informed decision. The Board of Directors had
held 5 (Five) board meetings during FY 2023-24. For further details, please refer to the
Corporate Governance Report, which forms part of this Annual Report. The intervening gap
between the meetings was within the period prescribed under the Act and the Listing
Regulations, 2015.
Directors and Key Managerial Personnel
The term of Managing Directors namely Mr. Rajesh C. Parikh and Mr. Atil
C. Parikh is ending on 31st March, 2025. Hence, their reappointment for the
further period of 5 (five) years and payment of remuneration for term of 3 (three) years
w.e.f. 1st April, 2025 is proposed at the ensuing Annual General Meeting.
Further, appointment of Mr. Jaideep Verma as an independent Director is proposed for 2nd
term at the ensuing Annual General Meeting.
In accordance with the Articles of Association of the Company, Mrs.
Sejal R. Parikh [DIN # 00140489], Whole-time Director, retires by rotation at this Annual
General Meeting and being eligible offers herself for re-appointment. The Board recommends
her re-appointment. The board has approved the revision in remuneration w.e.f 01-04-2024
to Mrs. Sejal R Parikh, Whole-time Director and the same will be subject to approval of
shareholders in the ensuing Annual General Meeting.
The Board of Directors at its meeting held on 17th May,
2024, upon recommendations of Nomination and Remuneration Committee, has appointed Mr.
Dukhabandhu Rath (DIN: 08965826) as an Additional Director (Category-Independent) and his
term of office will conclude at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and notice is being
placed before shareholders in the ensuing Annual General Meeting for his appointment for
the first term of consecutive 5 years from 17th May, 2024.
Necessary resolutions have been included in the notice of ensuing AGM
for approval of shareholders for appointment of Directors as mentioned above. The Board
recommends passing of these resolutions.
None of the Directors of the Company is disqualified under Section
164(2) of the Companies Act, 2013. As required by law, this declaration is also reflected
in the Auditors' Report.
In accordance with provisions of Section 149 of the Companies Act, 2013
and the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, Mr.
Ramkisan Devidayal, Mr. Atul Patel, Dr. Ajay Ranka, Mr. Jaideep Verma and Dr. Sivaram
Swaminathan have given a declaration to the Company that they meet the criteria of
independence as mentioned in Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013.
Company meets the requirement of Section 203 of the Companies Act, 2013
of having Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) such as Mr. Rajesh C Parikh, Chairman &
Managing Director (DIN:00041610), Mr. Atil C. Parikh, CEO & Managing Director (DIN:
00041712), Mr. Narendrakumar R. Patel, Chief
Financial Officer and Mrs. Komal Pandey, Company Secretary are the KMP
of the Company.
The composition of the Board, meetings of the Board held during the
year and the attendance of the Directors thereat have been mentioned in the Report on
Corporate Governance which forms part of this Annual Report.
Independent Directors' Declaration
Our definition of Independence' of Directors is derived from
Regulation 16(1)(b) of the Listing Regulations, 2015 and Section 149(6) of the Act and
rules framed thereunder. The Independent Directors have also submitted a declaration that
they meet the criteria of independence and that they are not aware of any circumstance or
situation, which exist or may be reasonably anticipated, that could impair or impact their
ability to discharge their duties with an objective independent judgment and without any
external influence, pursuant to Regulation 25 of the Listing Regulations, 2015.
Based on the confirmation/disclosures received from the Directors, the
following Non-Executive Directors are Independent as on March 31, 2024:
1) Mr. Ramkisan A. Devidayal
2) Mr. Atul H. Patel
3) Dr. Ajay I. Ranka
4) Mr. Jaideep B. Verma
5) Dr. Sivaram Swaminathan
Committees of the Board
The Company has 4 (four) Committees of Directors as on March 31, 2024:
1) Audit Committee
2) Nomination and Remuneration Committee
3) Stakeholders Relationship & Share Transfer Committee
4) CSR Committee
Details of all the committees along with their main terms, composition
and meetings held during the year under review are provided in the Report on Corporate
Governance, a part of this Annual Report.
Board Diversity
The Company recognizes and embraces the importance of a diverse board
in its success. The Company believes that a truly diverse board will leverage differences
in thought, perspective, knowledge, skill, regional and industry experience, cultural and
geographical background, age, ethnicity, race and gender, which will help the Company to
retain its competitive advantage.
Familiarization Program for Independent Directors
As trustees of shareholders, Independent Directors play a pivotal role
in upholding corporate governance norms and ensuring fairness in decision making. Being
experts in various fields, they also bring independent judgment on matters of strategy,
risk management, controls and business performance.
At the time of appointing a new Independent Director, a formal letter
of appointment is given to the Director, inter alia, explaining the role, duties and
responsibilities of the Director.
The Director is also explained in detail the compliances required from
him/her under the Act, SEBI Regulations and other relevant regulations. By way of an
induction programs in the Company, presentations are also being made to the newly
appointed Independent Director on relevant information like overview of the Company's
businesses, market and business environment, growth and performance, organizational set up
of the Company, governance and internal control processes.
Ongoing familiarization program aims to provide insights into the
Company and the business environment to enable all the Independent Directors to be updated
of newer challenges, risks and opportunities relevant in the Company's context and to
lend perspective to the strategic direction of the Company. The details for
familiarization program for the Independent Directors is available on the website of the
Company. As required under Regulation 46(2)(i) of the Listing Regulations, 2015 and the
same can be accessed at the link:https://www.20microns.com/
corporate-governance-policies-codes.
Significant and material orders passed by the Regulators or Courts
The Stock Exchanges [SEs] had imposed penalty for alleged violation of
Regulation 17[1A] of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, against the report on Corporate
Governance filed by the Company for the Quarter ended 30.06.2023, which was pertaining to
appointment of Mr. Swaminathan Sivaram as an Independent Director who has exceeded the age
of 75 years without prior approval of shareholders. The company had paid the said penalty
under protest to the SEs. This was reported to the SEs and the Board of Directors at its
meeting held on 25.10.2023.
Similarly, SEs had also imposed penalty for violation of Regulation
17[1A] of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, against the report on Corporate Governance filed
by the Company for the Quarter ended 30.09.2023. The company had paid the said penalty
also under protest to the SEs. This was reported to the SEs and the Board of Directors at
its meeting held on 25.01.2024.
The Company had made appeal[s] before the Hon'ble Securities
Appellate Tribunal (SAT) in this regard. The Hon'ble SAT have pronounced its order in
favour of the Company saying that there was no violation by the Company and no penalty
could have been imposed on the Company.
The Company had initiated actions for getting the Refunds of the said
fines in view of the said order passed by the Hon'ble SAT. The Company has received
refund from both stock exchanges (BSE & NSE) for Q1 & Q2 of the FY 24.
Apart from above, no Significant and material orders passed by the
Regulators or Courts during the year under review.
Auditors
A. Statutory Auditors
M/s. Manubhai & Shah LLP, Chartered Accountants (Firm Registration
No. 106041W/W100136) were appointed as statutory auditors of the company, at the
conclusion of 35th AGM of the Company. In terms of their appointment made at
the 35th AGM held on 22.07.2022, they are holding office of the auditors as
such up to the conclusion of the 40th AGM and hence, would retire at the
conclusion of the 40th AGM. The Statutory Auditors' Report received from
M/s. Manubhai & Shah LLP, Chartered Accountants for FY 2023-24 on the financial
statement of the Company forms part of this Annual Report. The Statutory Auditors'
report on the financial statements for FY 2023-24 does not contain any qualifications,
reservations or adverse remarks or disclaimer.
The Statutory Auditors of the Company have not reported any fraud as
specified under the second proviso to Section 143(12) of the Act.
B. Internal Auditors
M/s Lalit R. Mehta & Associates, Chartered Accountants, the
Internal Auditors have merged their existing practice with Vadodara based firms and the
firm will be continuing its services based on the on-going engagements without any changes
but under the revised name M/s V L S & Co.
The Company has appointed M/s. V L S & Co, Chartered Accountants,
Vadodara as the Internal Auditors of the Company for the F.Y. 2024-25.
C. Cost Auditors
Your Board has re-appointed M/s. Y. S. Thakar & Co., Cost
Accountants in Practice as Cost Auditors of the Company for conducting cost audit for the
FY 2024-25. A resolution seeking approval of the members for ratifying the remuneration
payable to the Cost Auditors for FY 2024-25 is provided in the Notice to the ensuing
Annual General Meeting.
Cost Records
The Cost accounts and records as required to be maintained under
Section 148 (1) of Act are duly made and maintained by the Company.
Cost Report
That cost audit report for FY 2023-24 have been filed with in
prescribed limit and cost audit report for FY 2023-24 will be filed on or before
prescribed time i.e. 30-09-2024
D. Secretarial Auditors
The Secretarial Audit Report for the financial year 2023-24 issued by
M/s. Parikh Dave & Associates, Practicing Company Secretaries, Ahmedabad is annexed to
this Report. There are no qualifications, observations or adverse remark or disclaimer in
the said report.
For the FY 2024-25 Company has reappointed M/s. Parikh Dave &
Associates, Practicing Company Secretaries, Ahmedabad as the Secretarial Auditors of the
Company to conduct secretarial audit and to ensure compliance by the Company with various
Acts applicable to the Company.
Directors' Responsibility Statement
Based on the framework of internal financial controls and compliance
systems established and maintained by the Company, work performed by the internal,
statutory, cost and secretarial auditors including audit of internal financial controls
over financial reporting by the statutory auditors and the reviews performed by the
management and the relevant Board committees, including the audit committee, the Board is
of the opinion that the Company's internal financial controls were adequate and
operating effectively during the FY 2023-24. Pursuant to Section 134(5) of the Act, the
Board of Directors, to the best of their knowledge and ability, your Directors hereby
confirm that: a) in the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicable accounting
standards have been followed along with proper explanation relating to material
departures; b) the Directors have selected such accounting policies and applied them
consistently and made judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as to
give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company at the end of the
financial year and of the profit of the Company for that period; c) the Directors have
taken proper and sufficient care 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; 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 operating effectively; f) adequate systems
and processes, commensurate with the size of the Company and the nature of its business,
have been put in place by the Company, to ensure compliance with the provisions of all
applicable laws as per the Company's Global Statutory Compliance Policy and that such
systems and processes are operating effectively
DISCLOSURE ABOUT THE APPLICATION AS MADE OR ANY PROCEEDING IS PENDING
UNDER THE INSOLVENCY AND BANKRUPTCY CODE (IBC), 2016 DURING THE YEAR ALONG WITH THEIR
STATUS AS AT THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR.
During the year under review no application has been made or any
proceeding is pending under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016.
DISCLOSURE ABOUT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE AMOUNTS OF VALUATION
EXECUTED AT THE TIME OF ONE TIME SETTLEMENT AND THE VALUATION DONE WHILE TAKING LOAN FROM
THE BANKS OR FINANCIAL INSTITUION ALONG WITH THE REASON THEREOF.
During the year under review no valuation has been executed with Bank
for one time settlement
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TThe Directors wish to convey their deep appreciation to all the
employees, bankers, customers, vendors, investors, and consultants/advisors of the Company
for their sincere and dedicated services as well as their collective contribution to the
Company's performance.
The Directors also thank the Government of India, Governments of
various States in India, Governments of various Countries and concerned Government
departments for their cooperation.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors
|
Rajesh C. Parikh |
Place: Waghodia, Vadodara |
Chairman & Managing Director |
Date: 17th May, 2024 |
DIN: 00041610 |
|