Dear Shareholders,
We are pleased to present the Forty-Sixth (46th) Annual
Report on the business and operations along with the audited standalone and consolidated
financial statements and the Auditor's Report of the Company, for the Financial Year ended
March 31,2024.
Financial Highlights
|
Standalone |
Consolidated |
Particulars |
FY2024 |
FY2023 |
FY2024 |
FY2023 |
Total Income |
23,203 |
22,643 |
156,212 |
115,501 |
Expenses |
21,845 |
21,559 |
140,002 |
101,946 |
Share of loss of joint venture and associate, net |
- |
- |
(842) |
(1,670) |
Profit before tax and exceptional items |
1,358 |
1,084 |
15,368 |
11,885 |
Exceptional items, net |
145 |
28,628 |
(116) |
(2,914) |
Profit before tax |
1,503 |
29,712 |
15,252 |
8,971 |
Income tax |
310 |
1,288 |
2,274 |
2,541 |
Non-controlling interest |
- |
- |
2,753 |
1,803 |
Profit for the year |
1,193 |
28,484 |
10,225 |
4,627 |
Other comprehensive income, net |
(7) |
9 |
2,688 |
1,138 |
Total comprehensive income |
1,186 |
28,493 |
12,913 |
5,765 |
Earnings per Share (EPS) after exceptional items |
1.00 |
23.87 |
8.55 |
3.88 |
Standalone and Consolidated Financial Statements
The standalone and consolidated financial statements of the Company
have been prepared in accordance with the Indian Accounting Standards ('Ind AS') as
notified under the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015, as amended. The
financial highlights and the results of the operations, including major developments have
been further discussed in detail in the Management Discussion and Analysis Report.
Further, a statement containing the salient features of the financial
statements of our subsidiaries pursuant to sub-section 3 of Section 129 of the Companies
Act, 2013 in the prescribed form AOC-1 is appended as Annexure 1 to the Board's Report.
The statement also provides the details of performance and the financial positions of each
of the subsidiaries, associate and joint venture.
State of Affairs
The highlights of the Company's Consolidated Financial performance are
as under:
During the year, our consolidated income registered a growth of
35% to C 156,212 million from C115,501 million in FY23. From a segment perspective,
Biologics recorded an annual growth of 58% and Research services grew by 9% while Generics
registered a growth of 1%.
Core operating margins (EBITDA margins net of licensing, forex
and R&D) stood at 29%.
Profit for the year including non-controlling interest stood at
C 12,978 million compared to C6,430 million for FY23.
The effective tax rate (ETR) for the year before the exceptional
item was 15% (15% in FY23).
Exceptional items (Consolidated):
Syngene had entered into a binding term sheet for acquiring Unit
3 biologics manufacturing facility in Bangalore, India, from Stelis Biopharma Limited
(SBL) and incurred transaction costs C111 million in the year ended March 31, 2024.
Consequential tax impact of C31 million included in tax expense for the year ended March
31, 2024.
The Department of Pharmaceuticals ('DOP'), via Corrigendum dated
October 20, 2023, has modified the PLI guidelines to limit the annual incentive allocation
to each applicant for the first 4 years of the scheme. Pursuant to such guidelines, during
the year ended March 31, 2024, the Group has reversed C166 million of excess PLI accrual
made in the books for the year ended March 31,2023. Consequential tax impact of C22
million is included in tax expense for the year ended March 31,2024.
Legal counsel, valuation experts) for Viatris' biosimilars
business transaction. During the year, BBL recorded C1,582 million, as an expense with
consequential tax of C80 million included within tax expense. Similarly, BBL recorded
C2,374 million in the previous year with consequential tax impact of C231 million included
within tax expense for the period.
One of the subsidiaries of BBL had received C18,269 million
towards working capital under the existing arrangements. Receivables were recorded at fair
value of C 10,219 million having regard to the timing and probability of recovery. The
resulting difference of C8,050 million is recorded as a gain. Consequential tax impact of
C407 million is included within tax expense.
Product for development and commercialization in certain
territories, recorded an impairment of the carrying value of the intangible asset
amounting C3,854 million.
Low demand and consequentially lower probability of liquation
amounting C2,366 million. Consequential tax impact of C296 million is included within tax
expense.
Biocon Pharma Limited and its subsidiaries in Generics business
pursuant to the uncertainty in commercialization of product in certain territories,
recorded an impairment of the carrying value of the intangible asset amounting C91
million. Consequential tax impact of C19 million is included within tax expense.
Total income includes C5,307 million of stake dilution and fair
valuation gain in Bicara, pursuant to fund raise during the year ended March 31, 2024.
Corporate Events:
The Company has raised funds by issuance and allotment of
NonConvertible Debentures aggregating to C5,000 million to ESOF III Investment Fund and
Edelweiss Alternative Asset Advisors Limited on May 19, 2023. The Company further invested
the said funds for acquisition of Optionally Convertible Debentures (OCDs) issued by BBL.
USD 250 million loan repayment has been done by the Biosimilar
business taken for Viatris Biosimilars business acquisition.
During the year ended March 31,2023, BPL had taken a loan
equivalent to C12,400 million from Serum Institute Life Sciences Private Limited ('Serum')
to subscribe to the rights issue of BBL which was repaid during the Financial Year ended
March 31, 2024 by transferring the BBL's equity shares to Serum.
The highlights of the Company's Standalone Financial performance are as
under:
Revenue from operations for FY24 stood at C21,273 million
compared to C 19,929 million for FY23. Other income for FY24 amounted to C 1,930 million
as against C2,714 million in FY23.
Core operating margins (EBITDA margins net of licensing, impact
of forex, R&D and dividend from subsidiaries) was 23% compared to 16% in the previous
financial year, primarily due to price erosion in Generics business.
Profit before tax and exceptional items stood at C1,358 million
compared to C1,084 million in FY23. Decrease in standalone profit is mainly due to price
erosion in our base business products specifically statins.
Effective tax rate (ETR) for the year was 23% against 14%
(excluding MAT charge on adoption of new tax regime and dividend income with nil tax
charge) in FY23.
Effective April 01, 2022, the Company decided to elect its
option to adopt the new tax regime notified under section 115BAA of the Income Tax Act,
1961 and consequently, has written off Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) balance of C 1,071
million in its financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2023, which can no longer
be carried forward.
Profit for the year stood at C 1,193 million compared to C28,484
million for FY23. This includes MAT write off of C 1,071 million and exceptional gain of
C28,628 million on Syngene stake sale.
Subsidiaries, Associates and Joint Ventures
The Company has 39 subsidiaries, 1 joint venture and 1 associate as on
March 31,2024. A report on the performance and financial position of each subsidiary and
joint venture is outlined in AOC-1 which is annexed to this report as Annexure 1.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 136 of the Companies Act,
2013 and the amendments thereto, read with the Securities and Exchange Board of India
(Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 ('SEBI Listing
Regulations'), the audited financial statements, including the consolidated financial
statements and related information of the Company and financial statements of the
subsidiary companies will be available on our website www.biocon.com.
The Company has also formulated a policy for determining 'material'
subsidiaries pursuant to the provisions of the SEBI Listing Regulations. The policy is
available on the website of the Company at https://www.biocon.
com/investor-relations/corporate-governance/governance-documents- policies/.
A report of the salient features and a summary of the financial
performance of each of the subsidiaries/ joint venture/ associate is presented as below:
Biocon Pharma Limited, India
Biocon Pharma Limited ('BPL') is a wholly owned subsidiary of the
Company with its registered office situated in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The Company was
incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013 on October 31, 2014 and is engaged in the
development and manufacture of generic formulations for sale in global markets, with a
focus on opportunities in the United States and Europe. BPL has setup its formulations
manufacturing facility for oral solid dosages at Bengaluru.
During the Financial year 2022-23, the Board of Directors had approved
the scheme of amalgamation of Biofusion Therapeutics Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of
Biocon Limited with Biocon Pharma Limited. The scheme of amalgamation was filed with the
National Company Law Tribunal ('NCLT'), Bengaluru Bench and the same has been approved on
April 24, 2024.
During the year ended March 31, 2024, BPL reported total revenue of
C8,816 million and a net profit of C348 million as against revenue of C6,791 million and
net profit of C711 million in FY23. This growth was driven by launch of inhouse developed
molecules in US, EU, UK and most-of-the- world markets.
Biocon Pharma Inc., USA
Biocon Pharma Inc. ('BPI'), a wholly owned subsidiary of BPL was
incorporated in July, 2015 in USA. BPI is engaged in the commercialization of generic
formulations in the United States.
BPI registered total revenue of C7,275 million and a net profit of C222
million in FY24 against a total revenue of C5,249 million and a net profit of C21 million
in FY23.
Biocon Pharma UK Limited, UK
Biocon Pharma UK Limited ('BPUK'), a wholly owned subsidiary of BPL was
incorporated in December, 2018 in United Kingdom. BPUK is engaged in the commercialization
of generic formulations in United Kingdom.
BPUK registered total revenue of C135 million in FY24 against a total
revenue of C70 million in FY23. BPUK reported a net profit of C9 million in FY24.
Biocon Pharma Ireland Limited, Ireland
Biocon Pharma Ireland Limited ('BPIL'), a wholly owned subsidiary of
BPL was incorporated in December, 2018 in Ireland. BPIL is engaged in commercialization of
generic formulations in Ireland.
As on March 31,2024, BPIL has not commenced its commercial operations.
During the Financial Year ended March 31,2024, BPIL reported a loss of C17 million against
C3 million in FY23.
Biocon Pharma Malta Limited & Biocon Pharma Malta I Limited
Biocon Pharma Malta Limited ('BPML') is a wholly owned subsidiary of
BPL and Biocon Pharma Malta I Limited ('BPMIL') is a wholly owned subsidiary of BPML, was
incorporated on January 25, 2021 in Malta. BPMIL is engaged in commercialization of
generic formulations and has commenced its commercial operations as on March 31,2024.
During the year under review, BPML has recorded total revenue of C1
million.
During the year under review, BPMIL has recorded a total revenue of
C169 million and reported a loss of C3 million against profit of C2 million in FY23.
Biocon Generics Inc., USA
Biocon Generics Inc. ('BGI'), a wholly owned subsidiary of BPL was
incorporated on July 07, 2023 in the State of Delaware. BGI is engaged in manufacturing of
generic formulation for sale in global markets, with a focus on opportunities in the
United States and Europe.
As on March 31,2024, BGI has not commenced its commercial operations.
Biocon Biosphere Limited, India
Biocon Biosphere Limited ('BBSL) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Biocon
Limited formed for undertaking similar business to that of Biocon Limited vide a
Greenfield facility in Vizag to de-risk fermentation manufacturing at Bengaluru. As on
March 31, 2024, BBSL has commenced its commercial operations and has capitalised
immunomycin facility of C1,442 million and capital work in progress of C5,497 million as
against C5,773 million in FY23.
Biofusion Therapeutics Limited, India
Biofusion Therapeutics Limited ('BTL') is a wholly owned subsidiary of
Biocon Limited with its registered office situated in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The Company
was incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013 on March 18, 2021, for undertaking Contract
Research and Manufacturing Services (CRAMS) and other Research & Development in the
field of pharmaceuticals, including but not restricted to drug discovery, biotechnology
pharmaceuticals, medicinal sciences, etc.
During the Financial Year 2022-23, the Board of Directors had approved
the scheme of amalgamation of Biofusion Therapeutics Limited with Biocon Pharma Limited,
wholly owned subsidiary of Biocon Limited. The scheme of amalgamation was filed with the
National Company Law Tribunal ('NCLT'), Bengaluru Bench and the same has been approved on
April 24, 2024.
Biocon Academy, India
Biocon Academy spearheads Biocon Group's CSR initiatives in technical
and professional education. The Academy was established as a Centre of Excellence for
Advanced Learning in Biosciences in 2014. Biocon Academy leverages the rich industry
experience of Biocon, its subject matter expertise alongside international Education
Partners such as Keck Graduate Institute of Claremont, California (USA) and BITS-Pilani,
India to deliver industry- oriented advanced learning and skill building programs for
pharma and biotech graduates. Biocon Academy is dedicated exclusively to industry-
oriented biosciences education. The programs offered by the Academy aim to empower the
Biotechnology and Engineering graduates with advanced learning, industrial proficiency and
job-skills development, the essential building blocks for a promising career in the
Biotech industry.
Biocon SA, Switzerland
Biocon SA ('BSA'), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, is
primarily engaged in identifying and developing novel molecules into commercial products
or licensable assets through strategic partnerships.
Biocon FZ LLC, Dubai
Biocon FZ LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, based in
Dubai. Incorporated in June 2015, Biocon FZ LLC was established as a marketing entity for
pharmaceutical products to target markets in the Middle East and the Gulf Cooperation
Council (GCC).
During the year ended March 31, 2024, Biocon FZ LLC earned C204 million
in revenue and reported a net profit of C53 million against a revenue of C204 million and
a net profit of C12 million in FY23.
Syngene International Limited, India
Syngene International Limited (Syngene), subsidiary of the Company, is
a contract research, development and manufacturing organization (CRDMO) that provides
integrated discovery, development and manufacturing services to pharmaceutical,
biotechnology, animal healthcare, consumer goods and agrochemical companies.
Syngene's clients are world leaders in their fields, ranging from
leading global multinationals to small and medium-sized biotech companies, nonprofit
institutions, academic institutes and government organizations. The majority of the
company's clients are based in the US (68%) and Europe (21%) for whom Syngene plays an
important role as part of their outsourcing strategies.
Incorporated in 1993, Syngene is listed separately on the Indian stock
exchanges - NSE and BSE. With a talent pool of [5500+] scientists, scientific expertise
across a wide range of therapeutic modalities, an experienced management team and an
independent Board of Directors, Syngene works for clients around the globe, delivering
innovation that primarily benefits human and animal health. As a strategic partner to its
clients, Syngene offers innovative, flexible and efficient solutions which expedite
projects from discovery and development to clinical and commercial scale manufacturing,
enabling clients to get their products to market - and to the patients who need them more
quickly.
Syngene's focus on innovation underpins its approach to integrated,
end-to-end services encompassing drug research, development and manufacturing capabilities
spanning the entire value chain. SynVent, its proprietary platform for integrated
services, provides an effective and efficient means to advance programs through target
validation, translational interrogation, therapeutic discovery and pre-clinical
development for small molecules and biologics. Clients benefit from a faster, seamless
R&D process, while the company leverages the full breadth of its resources.
Syngene prides itself on its strong corporate governance framework
which includes client satisfaction, quality, safety, ethics and data integrity. The
operations underpinned by expert sourcing and a resilient global supply chain comprising
2900+ suppliers across 30 countries, including strong regional/local supplier networks to
ensure uninterrupted supplies.
During the year ended March 31, 2024, Syngene (consolidated) registered
a total revenue growth of 9.7% to C35,792 million (FY23 - C32,638 million). EBITDA margin
for the year was 30.8 % with the margin at C 11,050 million (FY23 - C10,053 million),
registering a growth of 9.9 %.
Syngene USA Inc.
Syngene USA Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Syngene, incorporated
on August 24, 2017, with its registered office in the State of Delaware, United States of
America (USA). It provides sales and business support services to the operations of
Syngene in USA. During FY24, Syngene USA Inc. posted a total of USD 7.33 million in
revenue, accompanied by a profit before tax of USD 0.66 million.
Syngene Scientific Solutions Limited
Syngene Scientific Solutions Limited ('SSSL') is a wholly owned
subsidiary of Syngene, incorporated on August 10, 2022, with its registered office in the
State of Karnataka, India. SSSL shall be engaged in Contract Research and Manufacturing
Services (CRAMS) and Clinical research services. SSSL recorded a revenue of C3,546 million
during FY24, with a profit before tax of C580 million.
Syngene Manufacturing Solutions Limited
Syngene Manufacturing Solutions Limited ('SMSL') is a wholly owned
subsidiary of Syngene, incorporated on August 26, 2022, with its registered office in the
State of Karnataka, India. As of March 31, 2024, SMSL has not commenced operations. During
FY24, SMSL recorded a revenue of C0.08 million and a loss (before tax) of C0.38 million.
Biocon Biologics Limited, India
Biocon Biologics Limited ('BBL) was incorporated on June 08, 2016, in
India with the objective of building a biologics focused business with strong R&D and
global scale manufacturing capabilities.
BBL, a subsidiary of Biocon Limited, is a unique, fully integrated,
leading global biosimilars company committed to transforming healthcare and patient lives
by enabling affordable access to high quality biologics worldwide. It is leveraging
cutting-edge science, innovative tech platforms, global scale manufacturing capabilities
and world class quality systems to lower the cost of lifesaving biologics and improve
health outcomes.
BBL has commercialized eight biosimilars in several key Emerging
Markets as well as Advanced Markets like US, EU, Australia, Canada and Japan.
BBL has a pipeline of 20 biosimilar assets across diabetology,
oncology, immunology and other non-communicable diseases. It has a proven track record of
success and has achieved several 'firsts' in the biosimilars industry. BBL is also
committed to environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals in-line with global norms
such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and remains focused on manging ESG
performance and improving outcomes.
During the Financial Year 2022-23, BBL acquired the global biosimilars
business of its longstanding strategic partner Viatris, which is a historic milestone in
its value creation journey. During the year, BBL has successfully completed the
integration of the acquired biosimilars business from Viatris in over 70 countries in
Emerging Markets effective July 01, 2023, North America (United States and Canada)
effective September 01, 2023 and in 31 European countries on November 30, 2023. This will
further enable the company to continue to expand the availability of its high-quality
biosimilars to patients and provide more accessible and affordable options to treat
diabetes, cancer and autoimmune diseases as well as offer products in new therapeutic
areas such as ophthalmology, thereby increasing the scale and scope of the Company's
business.
During the year ended March 31, 2024, BBL posted a standalone revenue
of C37,747 million (FY23 - C21,893 million) and a standalone net profit of C3,689 million
(FY23 - Net loss of C4,453 million).
During the year ended March 31, 2024, BBL posted consolidated revenue
growth of 59.02% to C90,006 million (FY23 - C55,958 million) and a consolidated net profit
of C2,182 million (FY23 - C1,335 million).
Biocon Biologics UK Limited, UK
Biocon Biologics UK Limited ('BBUK') which was incorporated in the
United Kingdom on March 02, 2016 is a wholly owned subsidiary of BBL.
During the year, BBUK reported a total revenue of C 18,157 million and
a net profit of C4,788 million in FY24 against a total revenue of C 19,754 million and a
net profit of C4,190 million in FY23.
Biosimilars Newco Limited, United Kingdom
Biosimilars Newco Limited ('BNCL) incorporated in the United Kingdom on
July 27, 2022, which was acquired from Mylan Inc., a Pennsylvania corporation and wholly
owned subsidiary of Viatris Inc. on November 29, 2022, as part of acquisition of Viatris'
Biosimilar business. BNCL is a wholly owned subsidiary of BBL.
BNCL undertakes biosimilar businesses, i.e. w.r.t. Trastuzumab,
Bevacizumab, Pegfilgrastim, Glargine U100, Aspart, Pertuzumab and Glargine U300 across the
globe.
During the year, BNCL reported a total revenue of C43,656 million and a
net loss of C2,746 million in FY24 against a total revenue of C14,524 million and a net
loss of C3,237 million in FY23.
Biosimilar Collaborations Ireland Limited, Ireland
Biosimilar Collaborations Ireland Limited ('BCIL'), registered in
Ireland on October 11, 2013, which was acquired from Mylan Ireland Limited, an Irish
private limited company and wholly owned subsidiary of Viatris Inc. on November 29, 2022
as part of acquisition of Viatris' Biosimilar business. BCIL is a wholly owned subsidiary
of BBUK.
BCIL undertakes biosimilars businesses w.r.t Adalimumab, Eternacept and
Aflibercept.
During the year, BCIL reported a total revenue of C25,728 million and a
net loss of C3,546 million in FY24 against a total revenue of C7,835 million and a net
profit of C 1,258 million in FY23.
Biocon Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia
Biocon Sdn. Bhd. ('BSB'), which was incorporated in Malaysia on January
19, 2011, is a wholly owned subsidiary of BBUK. BSB was established as the group's first
overseas manufacturing facility at Malaysia. BSB is engaged in the manufacturing of
insulins and insulin analogues for global markets and is located within BioXcell, a
biotechnology park in Iskandar Puteri, Johor. The facility is Asia's largest integrated
insulins manufacturing facility with approvals from several global agencies including
National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Authority ('NPRA'), Malaysia, CGMP certification from
HPRA ('EMA') and Cgmp certification from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ('USFDA').
With over USC350 million investment, about 800 strong workforce, BSB is
the single largest biotech facility in Malaysia and holds the commercial and development
rights of insulin and insulin analogues.
BSB reported the revenue from operations of C 14,680 million and a net
loss of C 1,786 million in FY24 against a revenue from operations of C12,686 million and a
net profit of C 1,905 million in FY23.
Biocon Biologics Healthcare Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia
Biocon Biologics Healthcare Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia ('BBHMSB') is
a wholly owned subsidiary of BBUK, registered in Malaysia on August 10, 2017. BBHMSB was
established with an objective of undertaking operations for biologics in Malaysia. BBHMSB
was set up to carry on the business as importers and distributors of drugs and devices in
the Malaysian market.
BBHMSB did not have any operations during FY24 and FY23.
Biocon Biologics Inc., USA
Biocon Biologics Inc, USA ('BBI') is a wholly owned subsidiary of BBUK,
registered in the State of Delaware, United States of America on November 12, 2019. BBI
was established with an objective to undertake all activities relating to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products, i.e. commercialization, distribution etc. in
the USA and other geographies.
During the year, BBI reported a total revenue from inter- company cross
charge of 719,977 million and a net profit of C623 million in FY24 against a
total revenue from inter- company cross charge of C382 million and a
net profit of C14 million in FY23.
Biocon Biologics Do Brasil Ltda, Brazil
Biocon Biologics Do Brasil Ltda ('BBDBL') is a wholly owned subsidiary
of BBUK, registered in Brazil on August 17, 2020. BBDBL was established with an objective
to undertake direct marketing services and representatives' activities and intermediation
in general.
BBDBL reported the revenues from inter-company cross charge of C95
million and a net profit of C4 million in FY24 against revenues from intercompany cross
charge of C48 million and a net profit of C1 million in FY23.
Biocon Biologics FZ LLC, United Arab Emirates
Biocon Biologics FZ LLC ('BBFL') is a wholly owned subsidiary of BBUK,
registered in UAE on November 26, 2020. BBFL was established with an objective to
undertake import and export, marketing and sales promotion, research and development,
storage, support services activities related to therapeutics.
During the year, BBFL reported the revenues from inter-company cross
charge of C248 million and a net profit of C7 million in FY24 against revenues from
inter-company cross charge of C261 million and a net profit of C5 million in FY23.
Biocon Biologics Canada Inc., Canada
Biocon Biologics Canada Inc. ('BBCI') is a wholly owned subsidiary of
BBUK, registered in Ontario, Canada on March 20, 2023. BBCI was established with an
objective to undertake activities such as commercialization, sale and distribution etc.
related to pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBCI reported a total revenue of C1,252 million and a
net profit of C29 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Germany GmbH, Germany
Biocon Biologics Germany GmbH ('BBGG') is a wholly owned subsidiary of
BBUK, registered in Germany and which was setup by BBUK on March 29,
2023. BBGG was set up with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBGG reported a total revenue of C609 million and a
net profit of C9 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics France S.A.S, France
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
France S.A.S ('BBFSAS') as its wholly owned subsidiary on April 14, 2023, registered in
France. BBFSAS was established with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBFSAS reported a total revenue of C2,115 million and
a net profit of C31 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Spain S.L.U, Spain
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Spain S.L.U ('BBSSLU') as its wholly owned subsidiary on April 21, 2023, registered in
Spain. BBSSLU was established with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBSSLU reported a total revenue of C204 million and a
net profit of C4 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Switzerland AG, Switzerland
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Switzerland AG ('BBSAG') as its wholly owned subsidiary on April 25,
2023, registered in Switzerland. BBSAG was established with an objective to undertake
activities such as commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to
pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBSAG reported a total revenue of C56 million and a
net profit of C1 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Belgium BV, Belgium
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Belgium BV ('BBBBV') as its wholly owned subsidiary on April 28, 2023, registered in
Belgium. BBBBV was established with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBBBV reported a total revenue of C76 million and a
net profit of C2 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Finland OY, Finland
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Finland OY ('BBFOY') as its wholly owned subsidiary on May 10, 2023, registered in
Finland. BBFOY was established with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBFOY reported a total revenue of C36 million and a
net profit of C1 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Morocco S.A.R.L.A.U, Morocco
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Morocco S.A.R.L.A.U ('BBM') as its wholly owned subsidiary on July 24, 2023, registered in
Morocco. BBM was established with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBM reported a total revenue of C32 million and a net
profit of C1 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Greece SINGLE MEMBER P.C., Greece
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Greece SINGLE MEMBER P.C. ('BBGSMPC') as its wholly owned subsidiary on July 27, 2023,
registered in Greece. BBGSMPC was established with an objective to undertake activities
such as commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBGSMPC reported a total revenue of C230 million and a
net profit of C3 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics South Africa (PTY) Ltd, South Africa
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
South Africa (PTY) Ltd ('BBSA') as its wholly owned subsidiary on August 1 1,2023,
registered in South Africa. BBSA was established with an objective to undertake activities
such as commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBSA reported a total revenue of C1 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Thailand
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
(Thailand) Co. Ltd ('BBTCL') as its wholly owned subsidiary on September 08, 2023,
registered in Thailand. BBTCL was established with an objective to undertake activities
such as commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBTCL reported a total revenue of C1 million and a net
loss of C1 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Philippines, Inc., Philippines
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Philippines, Inc. ('BBPI') as its wholly owned subsidiary on October 25, 2023, registered
in Philippines. BBPI was established with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
During the year, BBPI reported a total revenue of C9 million in FY24.
Biocon Biologics Italy S.r.l, Italy
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Italy S.r.l ('BBISRL') as its wholly owned subsidiary on December 27, 2023, registered in
Italy. BBISRL was established with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
Biocon Biologics Croatia LLC, Croatia
During the year under review, BBUK has incorporated Biocon Biologics
Croatia LLC ('BBCL') as its wholly owned subsidiary on January 18, 2024, registered in
Croatia. BBCL was established with an objective to undertake activities such as
commercialization, sale and distribution etc. related to pharmaceuticals,
biopharmaceuticals and biologics products.
Neo Biocon FZ LLC, UAE
Neo Biocon FZ LLC ('NB') is a joint venture based in Dubai incorporated
in 2007. NB was established as a market entity for the pharmaceutical products to target
markets in the Middle East and GCC. During the year ended March 31,2024, Neo Biocon FZ LLC
reported total revenue of C47 million and a net loss of C156 million as against a revenue
of C166 million and a net loss of C75 million in FY23. The entity continued to face
regulatory challenges.
Hinduja Renewables Two Private Limited
During the Financial Year ended March 31,2021, the Company had acquired
26% equity stake in Hinduja Renewables Two Private Limited towards enhancing the renewable
based power consumption. The Company does not consolidate the associate since it does not
exercise significant influence over it.
Bicara Therapeutics Inc., USA
Bicara Therapeutics Inc. ('Bicara') was incorporated in December 2018
in the United States of America as a subsidiary of the Company. Bicara is anchoring the
development of a pipeline of functional antibodies that exploit the recent advances in
immuno-oncology.
Bicara was earlier been classified as an Associate Company ofthe
Company as Biocon Limited was holding 39% shareholding in Bicara. In December 2023, Bicara
completed its US$165 Million Series C financing and consequent to this infusion of Series
C funding and post allotment of shares by Bicara, the Company's shareholding in Bicara on
fully diluted basis is below 20% and thereby, Bicara has ceased to be an Associate Company
of Biocon Limited.
Dividend
In line with the Dividend Distribution Policy of the Company, we
recommend a final dividend of C0.50/- per equity share (i.e. 10% of face value) for the
Financial Year ended March 31,2024. The dividend, if approved at the ensuing 46th
Annual General Meeting ('AGM'), will be paid to those members whose names appear in the
Register of Members as on close of Friday, July 05, 2024. The total dividend payout will
be approximately C600 million.
Dividend Distribution Policy
In terms of Regulation 43A of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the Board
has formulated and adopted the Dividend Distribution Policy. The Policy is available on
the website of the Company at https://www.biocon.com/
investor-relations/corporategovernance/governance-documents-policies/.
Transfer to Reserves
No amount is proposed to be transferred to reserves for the Financial
Year ended March 31, 2024.
Share Capital
During the year under review, there has been no change in the share
capital of the Company. The share capital of the Company as on March 31,2024, is as
follows:
Particulars |
Amount in D |
Authorized Equity Share Capital |
6,250,000,000 |
(Equity shares of C5/- each) |
|
Paid up Equity Share Capital |
6,003,000,000 |
(Equity shares of C5/- each) |
|
Human Resource Development
We, at Biocon, give paramount importance to our employees, who we
believe to be our greatest assets. Attracting and retaining the best talents have been the
cornerstone of the Human Resource function at Biocon. We strive to create a diverse and
inclusive environment that is value driven, collaborating and growth inducing. The total
head count as on March 31, 2024 stood at 3,681.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
Pursuant to Regulation 34 of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the
Management Discussion and Analysis Report for the year under review, is forms part of the
Integrated Annual Report.
Corporate Governance
The Company is committed to maintain the highest standards of corporate
governance. We believe in adherence to good corporate practices, implementing effective
policies and guidelines and developing a culture of the best management practices and
compliance with the law at all levels. Our corporate governance practices strive to foster
and attain the highest standards of integrity, transparency, accountability and ethics in
all business matters to enhance and retain investor trust, long-term shareholder value and
respect minority rights in all our business decisions.
A separate section on Corporate Governance as stipulated under Schedule
V (C) of the SEBI Listing Regulations forms part of this report. The Corporate Governance
Report along with the requisite certificate from the statutory auditors of the Company,
confirming compliance with the conditions of corporate governance as stipulated under SEBI
Listing Regulations forms part of this Integrated Annual Report.
Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting
The Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting ('BRSR'),
originating from the MCA report on Business Responsibility Reporting, had found its way
into the regulatory provisions by way of an amendment to the Regulation 34(2)(f) of the
SEBI Listing Regulations, notified on May 05, 2021.
The BRSR had replaced the Business Responsibility Reporting ('BRR')
format w.e.f. the Financial Year 2022-23. SEBI has made BRSR and Sustainability Report on
the environmental, social and governance disclosures mandatory for the top 1,000 (one
thousand) listed entities by market capitalization with effect from the Financial Year
2022-23.
Pursuant to Regulation 34(2)(f) of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the
BRSR Report for the year under review, forms part of the Integrated Annual Report.
Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP)
The Board of Directors of the Company had formulated the Biocon
Employees Stock Option Plan, 2000 (hereinafter referred to as the 'ESOP Plan'),
administered by the Biocon India Limited Employees' Welfare Trust
('ESOP Trust') under the instructions and supervision of the Nomination
and Remuneration Committee ('NRC'). The Plan is implemented through a trust route in
accordance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits
and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 ('SEBI SBEBSE Regulations') with a view of attracting
and retaining the best talent, encouraging employees to align individual performances with
Company's objectives and promoting increased participation by them in the growth of the
Company.
The Company had also introduced Biocon Restricted Stock Unit Long Term
Incentive Plan FY 2020-24 (hereinafter referred to as 'the RSU Plan'), administered by the
ESOP Trust under the instructions and supervision of the NRC, which was approved by the
shareholders at the 42nd Annual General Meeting ('AGM') of the Company held on
July 24, 2020. The RSU Plan is designed to drive performance towards achieving the Board
approved strategic objectives for the Financial Year 2020-24. The RSU Plan covers key
employees who, by virtue of their roles, influence the accomplishment of the strategic
objectives.
The NRC and the Board at their respective meetings held on May 15, 2024
and May 16, 2024, have approved the Biocon Restricted Stock Unit Long Term Incentive Plan
FY 2024-29 (RSU Plan 2024-29) and recommended the same for the approval of the
shareholders at the ensuing 46th AGM of the Company. The said RSU Plan 2024-29
shall be administered by the ESOP Trust under the instructions and supervision of the NRC
and shall be implemented through a trust route in accordance with the SEBI SBEBSE
Regulations. The RSU Plan 2024-29 is designed to drive performance towards achieving
common goals and delivering on key initiatives measured through revenue, profits, cashflow
& return on capital, shareholder value creation for the Financial Year 2024-29. This
RSU Plan covers key employees who, by virtue of their roles, influence the accomplishment
of the strategic objectives.
During the year, a total of 20,69,361 and 7,47,889 shares were
transferred from the ESOP Trust to the eligible employees under the Company's prevailing
ESOP Plan and RSU Plan, respectively.
As on March 31, 2024, the ESOP Trust cumulatively held 3,795,018 equity
shares of the Company under both the ESOP and RSU Plans of the Company.
The applicable disclosures as stipulated under the SEBI SBEBSE
Regulations as on March 31,2024, are appended herewith as Annexure 2 to the Board's
Report. The details of the Plan forms a part of the notes to accounts of the Financial
Statements in this Integrated Annual Report. The Company has received a certificate from
the Practicing Company Secretary, that the ESOP and RSU schemes have been implemented in
accordance with SEBI SBEBSE Regulations and the resolutions passed by the shareholders.
The certificate would be placed at the AGM for inspection by the members.
During the year ended March 31, 2024, there has been no other changes
in the Company's existing plans and they both are in compliance with SEBI SBEBSE
Regulations.
Deposits
The Company has not accepted any deposit, including from the public and
as such no amount of principal and interest were outstanding as at March 31, 2024.
Particulars of Loans, Guarantees or Investments
Details of loans, guarantees and investments covered under the
provisions of Section 186 of the Companies Act, 2013 forms part of the notes to the
Financial Statements provided in this Integrated Annual Report.
Policy on Directors' Appointment and Remuneration
The Company's current policy centralises on having an appropriate mix
of Executive, Non-Executive and Independent Directors to maintain the independence of the
Board and separate its functions of governance and management. Assessment and appointment
of Directors to the Board are based on a combination of criterion that includes ethics,
personal
and professional stature, domain expertise, gender diversity and
specific qualifications required for the position.
For the purpose of selection of any Director, the Nomination and
Remuneration Committee ('NRC') identifies persons of integrity who possess relevant
expertise, experience and leadership qualities required for the position. A potential
board member is also assessed based on independence criteria defined in Section 149(6) of
the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation 16(1)(b) of the SEBI Listing Regulations.
In accordance with Section 178(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 and
Regulation 19(4) of the SEBI Listing Regulations, as amended from time to time and on
recommendation of the NRC, the Board had adopted a remuneration policy for Directors, Key
Managerial Personnel, Senior Management and other employees. This policy is available at
the website of the Company at https://www.biocon.com/investor-relations/corporate-
governance/governance-documents-policies/.
We affirm that the remuneration paid to Directors, Key Managerial
Personnel, Senior Management and other employees is in accordance with the remuneration
policy of the Company.
Board Diversity
The Company recognises and embraces the importance of a diverse board
in contributing to its success. Adequate diversity on the Board is essential to meet the
challenges of business globalisation, rapid deployment of technology, greater social
responsibility, increasing emphasis on corporate governance and enhanced need for risk
management. The Board enables efficient functioning through differences in perspective and
skill; and fosters differentiated thought processes at the back of varied industrial and
management expertise, gender, knowledge, ethnicity, country of origin and nationality. The
Board has adopted the Board Diversity Policy, which sets out the approach to diversity of
the Board. The policy is available at the website of the Company at
https://www.biocon.com/investor-relations/ corporate-
governance/governance-documents-policies/.
Declaration by Independent Directors
All Independent Directors of the Company have submitted the requisite
declarations confirming that they meet the criteria of independence as prescribed under
Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Regulation 16 and 25(8) of the SEBI
Listing Regulations. The Independent Directors have also confirmed that they have complied
with Schedule IV of the Companies Act, 2013 and the Company's Code of Conduct.
They have further confirmed that they are not aware of any
circumstances or situations which exist or may be reasonably anticipated that could impair
or impact their ability to discharge their duties and that they are independent of the
management. Further, the Independent Directors have also submitted their declaration in
compliance with the provision of Rule 6(3) of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification
of Directors) Rules, 2014, which mandated the inclusion of an Independent Director's name
in the data bank of the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs ('IICA') for a period of one
year or five years or life-time till they continue to hold the office of an Independent
Director.
In the opinion of the Board, all the Independent Directors have
integrity, expertise and experience.
Board Evaluation
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 134 of the Companies Act, 2013
and Regulation 19 of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the annual performance evaluation of
the Board, Board level Committees and individual directors was conducted during the year,
in order to ensure that the Board and Board level Committees are functioning effectively
and demonstrating good governance. In a block of every 3 (three) years, the Board
evaluation is done by an external agency. For the current Financial Year 2023-24, the
Board had undertaken this exercise through self-evaluation questionnaires.
The evaluation was carried out based on the criteria and framework
approved by the NRC. A detailed disclosure on the parameters and the process of Board
evaluation has been provided in the Report on Corporate Governance.
Directors
As on March 31, 2024, the Board of Directors comprised of 9 (nine)
members, consisting of 2 (two) Executive Directors, 2 (two) Non-Executive Non-Independent
Directors and 5 (five) Independent Directors. Out of the total members, 3 (three) are
women Directors. The Board has an appropriate mix of Executive Directors, Non-Executive
Non-Independent Directors and Independent Directors, which is compliant with the Companies
Act, 2013, the SEBI Listing Regulations and is also aligned with the best practices of
Corporate Governance.
Appointment
The Board of Directors, based on the recommendation of NRC, had
approved the appointment of Rekha Mehrotra Menon (DIN: 02768316) as an Additional Director
(Category: Non-Executive, Independent) of the Company w.e.f. July 26, 2023. Further, the
shareholders at the 45th AGM held on August 1 1, 2023, have approved the
appointment of Rekha Mehrotra Menon as an Independent Director of the Company till the
conclusion of 48th AGM proposed to be held in the year 2026.
The Board of Directors at its meeting held on August 10, 2023, based on
the recommendation of NRC, had approved the appointment of Nicholas Robert Haggar (DIN:
08518863) as an Additional Director (Category: NonExecutive, Independent) of the Company
with effect from the date of registration of his name in the Independent Director's
databank maintained by the IICA i.e. September 01, 2023. Further, the shareholders by way
of a resolution passed through Postal Ballot on November 28, 2023, approved the
appointment of Nicholas Robert Haggar till the conclusion of 48th Annual
General Meeting to be held in the year 2026.
Further, the Board of Directors, based on the recommendation of NRC,
had approved the appointment of Atul Dhawan (DIN: 07373372) as an Additional Director
(Category: Non-Executive, Independent) of the Company with effect from May 16, 2024, till
the conclusion of 49th AGM to be held in the year 2027, subject to approval of
the shareholders of the Company at the ensuing 46th AGM.
Re-appointment
As per the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and Articles of
Association of the Company, Eric Vivek Mazumdar is liable to retire by rotation at the
ensuing AGM and being eligible, seeks re-appointment. Once he is reappointed by the
members at the ensuing AGM, he will continue as a NonExecutive Director of the Company.
The Board of Directors at its meeting held on May 16, 2024, based on
the recommendation of NRC, had approved (i) re-appointment of Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (DIN:
00347229) as an Executive Director (designated as an "Executive Chairperson") of
the Company, liable to retire by rotation, for
a period of 5 years commencing from April 01,2025, subject to approval
of the Members at the ensuing 46th AGM and (ii) re-appointment of Siddharth
Mittal (DIN: 03230757) as the Managing Director & CEO of the Company for a period of 5
(five) years effective from December 01,2024, subject to approval of the Members at the
ensuing 46th AGM.
The Board at its meeting held on May 16, 2024, have recommended the
above re-appointments and separate resolutions shall be placed before the members for
their approval at the ensuing 46th AGM.
In the opinion of the Board, all the Directors, as well as the
Directors proposed to be appointed/ re-appointed possess the requisite qualifications,
experience, expertise and hold high standards of integrity and relevant proficiency.
Resignation
Peter Bains (DIN: 00430937) ceased to be an Independent Director of the
Company with effect from September 18, 2023. The Board further appointed Peter Bains as
the Biocon Group Chief Executive Officer ("Group CEO"), Senior Management
Personnel of the Company w.e.f. September 18, 2023.
Completion of tenure
During the year under review, Dr. Vijay Kumar Kuchroo (DIN: 07071727)
completed his second and final term as an Independent Director and consequently ceased to
be an Independent Director of the Company w.e.f. the close of business hours on July 26,
2023. The Board placed on record its appreciation for the extensive contribution rendered
by him during his tenure at Biocon.
Key Managerial Personnel
The Key Managerial Personnel(s) of the Company as on March 31,2024, are
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson, Siddharth Mittal, Managing Director & CEO
and Mayank Verma, Company Secretary & Compliance Officer.
During the year under review, Indranil Sen, Chief Financial Officer of
the Company resigned with effect from close of business hours of March 14,
2024.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of the Company, is also the
Non-Executive Chairperson of Syngene International Limited ('Syngene') and Executive
Chairperson of Biocon Biologics Limited ('BBL'), both being subsidiaries of the Company
and is in receipt of remuneration from the respective companies for the Financial Year
2023-24.
Committees of the Board
Currently, the Company has 5 (five) Board level Committees: Audit
Committee ('AC'), Risk Management Committee ('RMC'), Nomination and Remuneration Committee
('NRC'), Stakeholders Relationship Committee ('SRC') and Corporate Social Responsibility
and Environmental, Social & Governance Committee ('CSR & ESG'). The composition of
the above committees, as on March 31, 2024, is disclosed as under:
|
|
AC |
RMC |
NRC |
SRC |
CSR&ESG |
S. Name of Members No. |
Category |
C |
M |
C |
M |
C |
M |
C |
M |
C |
M |
1 Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw |
Executive Chairperson |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 Siddharth Mittal |
Managing Director & CEO |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 Ravi Rasendra Mazumdar |
Non-Executive Director |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4 Eric Vivek Mazumdar |
Non-Executive Director |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5 Bobby Kanubhai Parikh |
Independent Director |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6 Meleveetil Damodaran |
Independent Director |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7 Naina Lal Kidwai |
Independent Director |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8 Rekha Mehrotra Menon |
Independent Director |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9 Nicholas Robert Haggar |
Independent Director |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
C: Chairperson and M: Member.
Meetings of the Board
The meetings of the Board are scheduled at regular intervals to discuss
and decide on matters of business performance, policies, strategies and other matters of
significance. The schedule of the meetings is circulated in advance, to ensure proper
planning and effective participation. In certain exigencies, decisions of the Board are
also accorded through circulation.
During the Financial Year 2023-24, the Board met 6 (six) times on April
26, 2023, May 23, 2023, July 06, 2023, August 10, 2023, November 10, 2023 and February 08,
2024. The maximum interval between any two meetings did not exceed 120 days, as prescribed
in the Companies Act, 2013. Detailed information regarding the meetings of the Board is
included in the Report on Corporate Governance, which forms part of this Integrated Annual
Report.
Related Party Contracts or Arrangements
There were no materially significant related party transactions entered
between the Company, Directors, management and
their relatives, except for those disclosed in the financial statements
All the contracts/ arrangements/ transactions entered by the Company with the related
parties during the Financial Year 202324 were in the ordinary course of business and on an
arm's length basis and whenever required the Company has obtained necessary approval as
per the related party transaction policy of the Company.
Accordingly, particulars of contracts or arrangements with related
parties referred to in Section 188(1) of the Companies Act, 2013 along with the
justification for entering into such contract or arrangement in Form AOC-2 does not form a
part of the Report.
The Company has formulated the policy on 'Materiality of Related Party
transactions and on dealing with Related Party Transactions' and the same is available at
the website of the Company at
https://www.biocon.com/investor-relations/corporate-governance/
governance-documents-policies/. The details of related party disclosures forms part of the
notes to the Financial Statements provided in the Integrated Annual Report.
Credit Ratings
ICRA Limited vide its letter dated August 04, 2023, has removed the
longterm rating from 'Watch with Developing Implications' and reaffirmed it at [ICRA]AA+.
The short-term rating has been reaffirmed at 'ICRA A1+' for the Bank facilities and
Commercial Paper of the Company.
CRISIL vide its letter dated November 29, 2023, has reaffirmed the
rating at 'CRISIL AA+' for the long-term bank facilities and 'CRISIL A1+' for the
shortterm bank facilities of the Company.
India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) vide letter dated February 06,
2024, has reaffirmed the rating at 'IND AA+/ Stable' for the Non-convertible Debentures
and Term Loans and withdrawn the rating for Commercial Paper of the Company.
Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption, Foreign Exchange
Earnings & Outgo
The particulars as prescribed under sub-section (3)(m) of Section 134
of the Companies Act, 2013, read with the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, is appended
herewith as Annexure3 to the Board's Report.
AUDITORS Statutory Auditors
M/s. B S R & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (ICAI Registration No.
101248W/ W-100022) were appointed as the Statutory Auditors of the Company for a term of 5
(five) years, to hold office from the conclusion of the 43rd AGM held on July
23, 2021, till the conclusion of the 48th AGM, on such remuneration as may be
decided by the Board in consultation with the Statutory Auditors of the Company.
The Auditors' Report on the financial statements of the Company for the
Financial Year ended March 31,2024, is unmodified i.e. it does not contain any
qualification, reservation or adverse remark or disclaimer. The Auditors' Report is
enclosed with the financial statements forming part of the Integrated Annual Report.
Cost Auditors
The Cost Records of the Company are maintained in accordance with the
provisions of Section 148(1) of the Companies Act, 2013 as specified by the Central
Government. The Cost Audit Report, for the Financial Year ended March 31, 2023, was filed
with the Central Government within the prescribed time. The Board, on recommendation of
the Audit Committee, had appointed M/s. Rao, Murthy & Associates, Cost Accountants
(Firm Registration Number 000065) as the Cost Auditors to conduct the audit of Company's
cost records for the Financial Year ended March 31, 2024. The Cost Auditors will submit
their report for the Financial Year 2023-24 on or before the due date.
The Board, on recommendation of the Audit Committee, has appointed M/s.
Rao, Murthy & Associates, Cost Accountants (Firm Registration Number 000065) as the
Cost Auditors of the Company to conduct the audit of Company's cost records for the
Financial Year 2024-25. The Cost Auditors have confirmed that their appointment is within
the limits of Section 141(3) (g) of the Companies Act, 2013 and have also certified that
they are free from any disqualifications specified under Section 141(3) and proviso to
Section 148(3) read with Section 141(4) of the Companies Act, 2013. The Audit
Committee has also received a certificate from the Cost Auditors
certifying their independence and arm's length relationship with the Company.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 148 of the Companies Act,
2013 read with the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014, since the remuneration
payable to the Cost Auditor is required to be ratified by the members, the Board
recommends the same for approval by members at the ensuing AGM.
Secretarial Auditors
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Companies Act, 2013
and rules thereunder, M/s. V. Sreedharan & Associates, Practicing Company Secretaries
were appointed to conduct the secretarial audit of the Company for the Financial Year
2023-24. The Secretarial Audit Report for the Financial Year 2023-24 does not contain any
qualification, reservation or adverse remark or disclaimer and is appended herewith as
Annexure 4 to the Board's Report.
Pursuant to the provisions of Regulation 24A of the SEBI Listing
Regulations, Biocon Biologics Limited, a material unlisted subsidiary of the Company
undertook the secretarial audit for the Financial Year 2023-24. The Secretarial Audit
Report for the Financial Year 2023-24 given by M/s. V. Sreedharan & Associates,
Practicing Company Secretaries is appended herewith as Annexure 4A of the Board's Report.
Pursuant to the SEBI circular vide no. CIR/CFD/CMD/1/27/2019 dated
February 08, 2019, the Annual Secretarial Compliance Report for the Financial Year
2023-24, issued by M/s. V. Sreedharan & Associates, Practicing Company Secretaries
shall be submitted with the stock exchanges where shares of the Company are listed, within
stipulated timeline.
Reporting of Fraud by Auditors
During the year, the statutory auditors have not reported to the Audit
Committee any material fraud on the Company by its officers or employees under Section
143(12) of the Companies Act, 2013, the details of which need to be provided in this
report.
Risk Management Policy / Framework
The Company has formed a Risk Management Committee and has put in place
an enterprise-wide Risk Management Framework and Risk Management Policy with an objective
of timely identification of risks (existing and upcoming), assessment, prioritisation
based on impact on business and likelihood of occurrence and evaluation of such risks in
line with the overall business objectives or strategies and define adequate mitigation
strategies to reduce the impact of risk exposure. On a quarterly basis, the Risk
Management Committee reviews critical risks on a rotation basis in line with the risk
management plan to assess effectiveness of mitigation actions defined against critical
risks and its impact on overall risk exposure of the Company. All the critical risk areas
are covered at least once a year. All critical risk areas as identified by the Company are
re-evaluated annually. During the course of year, all risks in the risk register were
reassessed considering the internal and/ or external factors and accordingly changes were
made to the risk register.
Internal Financial Control
The Company has laid down guidelines, processes and structures, which
enable implementation of appropriate internal financial controls across the organisation.
Such internal financial controls encompass policies, processes and key activities or
procedures adopted by the Company for ensuring the orderly and efficient conduct of
business, including adherence to its policies, safeguarding of its assets, prevention and
detection of frauds and errors, the accuracy and completeness of accounting records and
the timely preparation of reliable financial information. These include controls in the
nature of manual or automated (IT applications including the ERP applications wherein the
transactions are approved and recorded).
The Company is staffed by experienced and qualified professionals who
play an important role in designing, implementing, maintaining and monitoring our internal
control systems. Appropriate review and self-certification mechanisms are put in place to
ensure that such control systems are adequate and are operating effectively on an ongoing
basis.
Periodic internal audits are carried out by the Internal Auditors of
the Company to provide reasonable assurance of internal control effectiveness and advises
the Company on industry-wide best practices. The Audit Committee, consisting of
Independent Directors, reviews important issues raised by the internal and statutory
auditors regularly and the status of rectification measures to ensure that risks are
mitigated appropriately on a timely basis.
Vigil Mechanism
The Vigil Mechanism as envisaged in the Companies Act, 2013, the rules
prescribed thereunder and the SEBI Listing Regulations is implemented through the Whistle
Blower Policy of the Company to enable the Directors, employees and all stakeholders
(internal and external) of the Company to report genuine concerns, to adequately safeguard
against victimisation of persons who use such mechanism and make provision for direct
access to the Chairperson of the Audit Committee.
Whistle Blower Policy of the Company is available on the Company's
website and can be accessed at https://www.biocon.com/investor-relations/
corporate-governance/governancedocuments-policies/.
The Company has also launched a Speak-Up Hotline facility accessible to
all employees across the globe. This Hotline allows our people to raise concerns about any
kind of business or employee misconduct and seek clarification while remaining anonymous
if they so choose.
The Integrity Committee (IC) comprising of the CEO, CFO and HR Head
oversees the investigation and reporting of suspected unethical practices, grievances and
whistleblowers received. The IC assesses these concerns, takes corrective actions and
presents quarterly summaries of key investigations to the Audit Committee.
Directors' Responsibility Statement
Pursuant to the requirement under Section 134 (3)(c) of the Companies
Act, 2013, the Directors 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. they have selected such accounting policies and applied them
consistently and made judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as to
give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company at the end of the
financial year and of the profit and loss of the Company for that period;
c. they 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. they have prepared the annual accounts on a going concern basis;
e. they have laid down internal financial controls based on the
internal controls framework established by the Company, which were adequate and are
operating effectively; and
f. they have devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the
provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating
effectively.
Particulars of Employees
The statement containing particulars in terms of Section 197(12) of the
Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of
Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 forms part of this report and is appended herewith as
Annexure 5 to the Board's Report.
The statement containing particulars in terms of Section 197(12) of the
Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(2) and 5(3) of the Companies (Appointment and
Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, forms part of this report. The above
statement is available on the website of the Company at www.biocon.com.
However, considering the first proviso to Section 136(1) of the
Companies Act, 2013, the Integrated Annual Report, excluding the aforesaid information, is
being sent to the members of the Company and others entitled thereto. The said information
is available for inspection at the registered office of the Company during business hours
on working days of the Company up to the date of the ensuing AGM. Any shareholder
interested in obtaining a copy thereof, may write to the secretarial team of the Company
in this regard.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
The Company drives social and economic inclusion for underserved and
marginalized communities through the Biocon Foundation, Biocon Academy and strategic
partnerships with like-minded organizations (both private and government).
During the past fiscal year, the Company prioritized its Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in two key areas: supporting the development of a
sustainable urban public transport system and advancing healthcare and research
infrastructure by supporting the establishment of a centre of excellence.
Environmental Sustainability - Air pollution and traffic congestion
continue to plague Bengaluru, significantly impacting residents' quality of life.
Committed to ecological balance and sustainability, the Company is supporting a
people-centric and eco-friendly solution: mass rail transit. By reducing reliance on
individual vehicles, these systems significantly cut toxic emissions and greenhouse gases.
Building on our unwavering commitment, Biocon Foundation signed a
Memorandum of Understanding with the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) in 2020 to
fund construction of the Hebbagodi Metro Station. We continued our support throughout the
year under review. This station is part of a new 18.82 km elevated line with 16 stations,
under Phase II of the Bengaluru Metro Rail Project, connecting R V Road to Bommasandra.
Upon completion, targeted for late 2024, the Hebbagodi Metro Station
will provide a sustainable, safe and faster travel option for residents and business
commuters across Bengaluru. This will significantly reduce traffic congestion on Hosur
Road and contribute to lowering the city's environmental impact from vehicle pollution.
Promoting Healthcare - The construction of the 800-bed Biocon-Syngene
General Medicine Block at the upcoming IISc PG Medical School & Hospital is
progressing well. The facility is expected to become operational by early
2025.
Furthermore, the medical school has rolled out a unique MBBS/MPH
Internship program to foster interdisciplinary research and develop physician-scientists
in the country. Under this program, in the year under review, 37 selected students got an
opportunity to work under the supervision of 32 participating faculties at IISc, Bengaluru
for a period of 1 to 2 months. The key thematic areas of Research included Cancer Biology,
Bioengineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Endocrinology, Biomedical devices
and others.
In compliance with the provisions of Section 135 of the Companies Act,
2013, the Board has formed a CSR & ESG Committee, which monitors
and oversees various CSR initiatives and activities of the Company. As
on March 31, 2024, the CSR & ESG Committee comprises of Naina Lal Kidwai
(Chairperson), Prof. Ravi Rasendra Mazumdar, Eric Vivek Mazumdar, Siddharth Mittal, Rekha
Mehrotra Menon and Nicholas Robert Haggar.
A detailed report regarding Corporate Social Responsibility is appended
herewith as Annexure 6 to the Board's Report. The Policy on Corporate Social
Responsibility and Annual Action Plan have been uploaded on to the website of the Company
and is available at https://www.biocon.
com/investor-relations/corporate-governance/governance-documents- policies/.
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. An Internal Complaints Committee ('ICC') has been set up to
redress complaints received regarding sexual harassment. All employees (permanent,
contractual, temporary, trainees) are covered under this Policy. The Policy is gender
neutral.
During the financial year under review, 4 (four) complaints with
allegations of sexual harassment were filed and all 4 (four) complaints were disposed- off
and no complaint is pending for closure as per the timelines of the Sexual Harassment of
Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Transfer of Unpaid and Unclaimed Amounts to Investor Education and
Protection Fund ('IEPF')
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 124(5) of the Companies Act,
2013, read with the IEPF Authority (Accounting, Audit, Transfer and Refund) Rules, 2016,
all dividends which remains unpaid or unclaimed for a period of 7 (seven) years from the
date of their transfer to the unpaid dividend account are required to be transferred by
the Company to the Investor Education and Protection Fund ('IEPF'), established by the
Central Government. Further, as per IEPF Rules, the shares on which dividend has not been
paid or claimed by the members for 7 (seven) consecutive years or more shall also be
transferred to the demat account of the IEPF Authority. Further, as per Rule 6(8) of IEPF
Rules, all benefits such as bonus shares, split, consolidation except rights issue,
accruing on shares which are transferred to IEPF, shall also be credited to the demat
account of the IEPF authority.
During the year ended March 31,2024, the Company has transferred unpaid
and unclaimed dividends of C 1,054,070 for the Financial Year 2015-16 and 5,282
corresponding equity shares on which dividends were unclaimed for 7 (seven) consecutive
years were transferred as per requirements of the IEPF Rules.
Significant and Material Orders
There are no significant and material orders passed during the year by
the regulators, courts or tribunals impacting the going concern status and Company's
operations in the future.
Statutory Disclosures
None of the Directors of the Company are disqualified as per the
provisions of Section 164(1) and (2) of the Companies Act, 2013. The Directors have made
necessary disclosures, as required under various provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and
the SEBI Listing Regulations.
Material Changes and Commitments
No material changes and commitments affecting the financial position of
the Company have occurred between March 31, 2024 and the date of this report.
Change in Nature of Business
The Company continues to be a pioneer biopharmaceutical company engaged
in manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients and formulations, including biosimilar
drugs for diabetics, oncology and autoimmune diseases with sales in markets across the
globe.
There has been no change in the nature of the business of the Company.
Annual Return
The Annual Return of the Company as per the provisions of Section
134(3) (a) and 92(3) of the Companies Act, 2013, is available on the website of the
Company at www.biocon.com.
Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of
India
In terms of Section 118(10) of the Companies Act, 2013, the Company has
complied with the applicable Secretarial Standards i.e. SS-1, SS-2 and SS- 4, relating to
the 'Meetings of the Board, 'General Meetings' and 'Report of the Board of Directors',
respectively, as specified by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India and approved
by the Central Government.
Corporate Codes & Policies
The details of the policies approved and adopted by the Board as
required under the Companies Act, 2013, SEBI Listing Regulations and any other applicable
laws, are provided in Annexure 7 to the Board's Report.
Other Disclosures
a. There are no proceedings initiated/pending against the Company under
the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 which materially impact the business of the
Company; and
b. There were no instances where the Company required the valuation for
one time settlement or while taking the loan from the Banks or Financial institutions.
Green Initiative
We request all the shareholders to support the 'Green Initiative' of
the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Biocon's continuance towards greener environment by
enabling the service of the Integrated Annual Report, AGM Notice and other documents
electronically to your email address registered with your Depository Participant/
Registrar and Share Transfer Agent.
In support of the 'Green Initiative' the Company encourages Members to
register their email addresses with their Depository Participant or the Company, to
receive soft copies of the Annual Report, Notices and other information disseminated by
the Company, on a real-time basis without any delay.
Acknowledgement
We place on record our appreciation for the committed services by every
member of the Biocon family globally whose contribution was significant to the growth and
success of the Company. We would like to thank all our clients, partners, vendors,
investors, bankers and other business associates for their continued support and
encouragement during the year.
We also thank the Government of India and Malaysia, Government of
Karnataka, Government of Telangana, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Ministry of Information
Technology and Biotechnology, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Commerce and Industry,
Ministry of Finance, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Scientific and
Industrial Research, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and
Customs, Income Tax Department, CSEZ and all other regulatory agencies for their
assistance and cooperation during the year and look forward to their continued support in
the future.
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For and on behalf of the Board |
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Sd/- |
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Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw |
Place: Bengaluru |
Executive Chairperson |
Date: May 16, 2024 |
DIN:00347229 |
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