<dhhead>Boards Report</dhhead>
Dear Members,
Your Directors are pleased to present the 32nd Annual Report
of your Company, along with the audited financial statements and Auditors report for
the financial year ended March 31, 2025. The consolidated performance of the Company and
its subsidiaries has been referred to wherever required.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Your Companys performance during FY25, compared to the previous
year is summarized below (Rs in Mn)
|
Standalone |
Consolidated |
Particulars |
March 31, 2025 |
March 31, 2024 |
March 31, 2025 |
March 31, 2024 |
Total revenue |
34,438 |
32,911 |
37,142 |
35,792 |
Total expenditure |
28,542 |
27,227 |
30,863 |
29,473 |
Profit before Depreciation, Finance Costs,
Exceptional items and |
9,882 |
9,668 |
11,136 |
11,050 |
Tax Expense |
|
|
|
|
Less: Depreciation & Interest |
3,985 |
3,984 |
4,857 |
4,730 |
Profit before Exceptional items and Tax
Expense |
5,896 |
5,684 |
6,279 |
6,319 |
Add: Exceptional items |
320 |
-111 |
320 |
-111 |
Profit before Tax Expense |
6,216 |
5,573 |
6,599 |
6,208 |
Less: Tax expenses |
1,536 |
908 |
1,637 |
1,108 |
Profit for the year |
4,680 |
4,665 |
4,962 |
5,100 |
Other Comprehensive Income |
-81 |
1,431 |
-147 |
1,426 |
Total Comprehensive Income |
4,599 |
6,096 |
4,815 |
6,526 |
Key highlights of the Companys financial performance during FY25
are as follows:
Revenue increased by 4.64% (from Rs. 32,911 Mn to Rs. 34,438 Mn) on
standalone basis and by 3.77% (from Rs. 35,792 Mn to Rs. 37,142 Mn) on consolidated basis
Earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA)
(excluding exceptional item) increased by 2.21% (from Rs. 9,668 Mn to Rs. 9,882 Mn ) on
standalone basis and by 0.78% (from Rs. 11,050 Mn to Rs. 11,136 Mn) on consolidated basis.
Profit after tax increased by 0.32% (from Rs. 4,665 Mn to Rs. 4,680
Mn) on a standalone basis and decreased by 2.71% (from Rs. 5100 Mn to Rs. 4,962 Mn) on a
consolidated basis.
A detailed financial performance analysis is provided in the Management
Discussion and Analysis Report, which is part of this Annual Report.
OPERATIONAL REVIEW
Syngene International Limited (BSE: 539268, NSE: SYNGENE, ISIN:
INE398R01022) is an integrated research, development, and manufacturing services company
serving the global pharmaceutical, biotechnology, nutrition, animal health, consumer
goods, and specialty chemical sectors. Syngenes more than 5,600 scientists offer
both skills and the capacity to deliver great science, robust data security, and quality
manufacturing, at speed, to improve time-to-market and lower the cost of innovation. With
2.5 Mn sq. ft of specialized discovery, development, and manufacturing facilities, Syngene
works with biotech companies pursuing leading-edge science as well as multinationals,
including BMS, GSK, Zoetis and Merck KGaA.
Research Services
Research Services division is an end-to-end drug discovery function,
comprising of early discovery, pre-clinical and clinical services, along with integrated
drug development platform Syngene Synvent and ring-fenced dedicated centre
model. Over the last year, the function has laid a deep focus on productivity improvement
and automation particularly in its chemistry and Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics
(DMPK) services that led to substantial gains by providing cost advantage. Syngene has
also consolidated its research offerings into two distinct business models, Competitive
and Differentiated. The Competitive Business Model focuses on value creation through the
combination of strong technical execution, high productivity metrics matching or exceeding
the leading global CROs, and competitive pricing based upon establishing the lowest cost
to serve position enabling competition on price when necessary. By contrast, the
Differentiated Business Model creates value through value added service offerings
featuring sophistication in problem solving and innovation, capabilities and subject
matter expertise uncommon in the CRO marketplace, and creative business terms.
Development and Manufacturing Services Large Molecule
Unit 3 that was acquired in the later part of FY24 was operationalized
this year providing Syngene an additional 20,000 litres of installed biologics drug
substance manufacturing capacity and also a commercial scale, high speed, fill-finish unit
an essential capability for drug product manufacturing.
Syngene further acquired a biologics drug substance facility in
Baltimore, its first ever manufacturing facility in the USA. The acquisition is expected
to expand Syngenes growing global biologics footprint to better serve its customers
across both human and animal health market segments. The new site will increase
Syngenes total single-use bioreactor capacity to 50,000L for large molecule
discovery, development, and manufacturing services. Additionally, it will provide
Syngenes customers with continuity of supply from its four development and
manufacturing facilities located in India and North America, offering services ranging
from cell line development, process optimization and both clinical and commercial supply.
The division has also pursued high yielding cell line development and
achieved an yield of 9g/l.
As a testament to its progress, Syngene won Asia Pacific Biologics CMO
Excellence Awards 2024.
Development and Manufacturing Services Small Molecule
Syngene is committed to building small molecule CDMO (SM CDMO) business
and over the past year, has progressed well on its multi-year transformation journey. Over
this past year, Syngene has implemented multiple strategic shifts set out in as part of
broader SM CDMO plan.
Syngene restructured its SM CDMO operating model with the integration
of small molecule development and manufacturing into a single division providing
end-to-end services for small molecule process development, clinical and commercial
manufacturing. It now mirrors how the clients approach their commercial manufacturing
requirements. Syngene has improved its operational efficiency and strengthened customer
focus by implementing a 'follow-the-molecule' approach.
These measures have led to higher capacity utilization across all
assets, increased number of pilot projects in Process R&D, robust pipeline of large
pharma customers, scale up of process development capabilities and the securing of deals
that are helping to build additional momentum in line with the divisions long-term
vision.
SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES, ASSOCIATES AND JOINT VENTURES
Syngene has three wholly owned subsidiaries namely Syngene USA Inc,
Syngene Scientific Solutions Limited and Syngene Manufacturing Solutions Limited. The
Company neither has any associate companies nor has formed any joint venture.
Syngene USA Inc: Established in FY 2018, Syngene USA Inc. plays a
crucial role in strengthening Syngenes presence in the US market. In FY25, the
revenue stood at USD 11 Mn, with a profit before tax of USD 0.6 Mn. As part of its
strategic expansion, Syngene USA Inc. acquired a state-of-the-art biologics facility from
Emergent Manufacturing Operations Baltimore, LLC (a subsidiary of Emergent BioSolutions
Inc.) for USD 36 million enabling Syngene to further expand its global biologics
footprint. This acquisition increases the total single-use bioreactor capacity to 50,000L,
enhancing capabilities in large molecule discovery, development, and manufacturing
enabling Syngene to better serve customers across both human and animal health market
segments.
Syngene Scienti_c Solutions Limited (SSSL): Incorporated in India
in August 2022, SSSL specializes in contract research and clinical research services. As a
dynamic player in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, the company offers a
diverse range of services, including CRAMS, clinical research, R&D, and software
development. In FY25, SSSL contributed significantly to overall revenue, by generating a
revenue of Rs. 3,345 million, with a profit before tax of Rs. 330 million, reinforcing its
growing presence in the industry.
Syngene Manufacturing Solutions Limited (SMSL): Incorporated in
India in August 2022, SMSL is dedicated to the manufacturing of pharmaceutical,
biopharmaceutical, and biological products. During FY25, SMSL reported a revenue of Rs.
0.6 Mn with a profit before tax of Rs. 0.1 Mn. SMSL is yet to commence the operations.
A report on the performance and financial position of each subsidiary
is outlined in AOC-1, which is annexed to this report as Annexure 1 pursuant to the
first proviso to Section 129(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 (the Act) and Rules
5 and 8(1) of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014. The Consolidated Financial Statements
presented in this Annual Report include the financial results of the subsidiaries.
Further, in accordance with Section 136 of the Act, the audited
financial statements and related information of the Company and its subsidiaries, wherever
applicable, are available on the Companys website: www.syngeneintl.com. These
are also available for inspection during regular business hours at our registered office
in Bengaluru, India and/or in electronic mode. Any member desirous of inspecting such
documents is requested to write to the Company by sending an email to investor@syngeneintl.com.
The Company has formulated a policy determining material subsidiaries.
This is available on the Companys website at https://www.syngeneintl.
com/investors/corporate-governance/governance-reports-policies/.
The Company has no material subsidiary.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
The Company has not proposed to transfer any amount to the general
reserve for the year ended March 31, 2025.
DIVIDEND
The Board has recommended a final dividend of Rs. 1.25 per share for
FY25, amounting to a payout of Rs. 503.67 mn with applicable tax deductions. If approved
at the Annual General Meeting (AGM), the dividend will be distributed to shareholders
whose names appear in the Companys Register of Members as of the record date,
Friday, June 27, 2025, with the payout to be completed within 30 days from the date of
shareholders approval.
In compliance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirement) Regulations, 2015 ("SEBI Listing
Regulations"), the dividend distribution policy of the Company is available on the
Companys website at https://www.syngeneintl.com/investors/ corporate-governance/
governance-reports-policies/.
RELATED PARTY CONTRACTS OR ARRANGEMENTS
All transactions entered with related parties as defined under the
Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI Listing Regulations during the financial year were in the
ordinary course of business and on an arm's length basis. Detailed disclosure on related
party transactions as per IND AS 24 containing the name of the related parties and details
of the transactions entered with such related parties have been provided as part of the
notes to the financial statements provided in the Annual Report in Note No 26.
The Company has formulated the policy on Materiality of Related
Party transactions and on dealing with Related Party Transactions, and the same can
be accessed using the following link: at http://www.syngeneintl.com/
investors/corporate-governance/governance-reports-policies/
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION, FOREIGN EXCHANGE
EARNINGS AND OUTGO
The particulars, as prescribed under Section 134(3)(m) of the Companies
Act, 2013, read with Rule 8(3) of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, are annexed to
this Report as Annexure 2.
CHANGE IN THE NATURE OF BUSINESS
The Companys nature of business remains unchanged, and there have
been no significant shifts in the operations of its subsidiaries. Your Company continues
to be one of the largest and fastest growing internationally reputed Contract Research and
Manufacturing Organization and world-class partner delivering innovative scientific
solutions.
LOANS, GUARANTEES OR INVESTMENTS
Loans, guarantees and investments covered under Section 186 of the
Companies Act, 2013 are detailed in notes to the financial statements provided in the
Annual Report in Note No .
DEPOSITS
During the year FY25, your Company has not accepted any deposits
covered under Chapter V of the Companies Act, 2013 ("Act"). Accordingly, there
is no disclosure or reporting required in respect of details relating to deposits.
CREDIT RATING
During the year, CRISIL Ratings Limited ("CRISIL") vide its
letter dated November 30, 2024, has reaffirmed the long-term rating as "CRISIL AA+/
Stable" and reaffirmed the short-term rating "CRISIL A1+". ICRA Limited
("ICRA") vide its letter dated August 30, 2024, has reaffirmed the long-term
rating as [ICRA] AA+ (Stable), and reaffirmed the short-term rating as "[ICRA]
A1+".
PAID UP CAPITAL
During the financial year, the paid-up share capital of the Company was
increased by allotment of 5,21,981 Equity shares of Rs. 10 each to Syngene Employee
Welfare Trust to enable the implementation of the Syngene Long Term Incentive Restricted
Stock Units (RSU) Plan, 2020. The paid-up share capital as on March 31, 2025 stood at Rs.
4,025,369,810 comprising of 40,25,36,981 equity shares of Rs 10/- each
MATERIAL CHANGES AND COMMITMENTS
On April 23, 2025, the Companys Board of Directors approved the
allotment of 4,02,439 equity shares, to the Syngene Employee Welfare Trust at face value
of Rs. 10 each. This action was in accordance with the shareholder endorsement received on
April 23, 2023 through Postal Ballot allowing the allotment of fresh equity shares up to
22,00,000 (~0.55% of the paid-up equity capital of the Company) in tranches to facilitate
the implementation of the Syngene Long Term Incentive Plan Performance Share Unit Plan
2023. Following this allotment, the Companys paid-up equity share capital now stands
at Rs. 4,02,93,94,200. There were no material changes and commitments affecting the
financial position of the Company which have occurred between the end of the financial
year and the date of this report.
HUMAN RESOURCES
Syngenes diverse and multidisciplinary workforce remains
dedicated to maintaining world-class quality standards while prioritizing safety. Talent
and culture serve as essential pillars in building a resilient and sustainable
organization. The company continues to focus on strategic initiatives that maximize the
potential of its human capital, aligning with its core values of excellence, integrity,
and professionalism. As of the fiscal year ending 2024-25, Syngene had a headcount of
6,533 permanent employees.
PARTICULARS OF EMPLOYEES
Disclosures pertaining to remuneration and other details as required
under Section 197(12) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies
(Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 are annexed to this
Report as Annexure 3.
Particulars of Employees Remuneration, as required under 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. Considering the first proviso to Section 136(1) of the Companies Act, 2013, the
Annual Report, excluding the said information, is being sent to the shareholders of the
Company and others entitled thereto. The information is available for inspection at the
registered office of the Company during working hours up to the date of the ensuing AGM.
Any shareholder interested in obtaining such information may write to the Company in this
regard at investor@syngeneintl.com
EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION PLAN /RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS PLAN/PERFORMANCE
STOCK UNITS PLAN
Syngene Employee Stock Option Plan 2011
The Board of Directors of the Company had formulated the Syngene
Employee Stock Option Plan 2011 (hereinafter referred to as the "ESOP Plan")
which was approved by the members of the Company on December 14, 2011 and further ratified
by the members subsequent to the Initial Public Offering ("IPO") on December 05,
2015. The ESOP Plan is administered by the Syngene Employee Welfare Trust ("the
Trust") under the instructions and supervision of the Nomination and Remuneration
Committee ("NRC"). The Trust had subscribed to equity shares of the Company on
October 31, 2012, using the proceeds from interest free loan of Rs. 150 million obtained
from the Company. The NRC, on various occasions, has granted options to eligible employees
of the Company through the Trust. During the financial year, there was no change in the
ESOP Plan and no options were granted to employees under the ESOP Plan. However, 44,996
equity shares were transferred to eligible employees by the Syngene Employee Welfare Trust
on exercise of stock options. The ESOP Plan complies with SEBI (Share Based Employee
Benefits & Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021.
The Company has discontinued granting ESOPs under the above Plan and
does not intend to issue any further grants under the said Plan in future. The Trust has
some surplus shares under this Plan, which has arisen due to the lapse of options granted
to the employees over the years. These surplus shares may further increase due to a lapse
of options in the future. In order to use the cash and surplus shares lying with the
Syngene Employee Welfare Trust on account of the ESOP Plan, the Shareholders vide special
resolution passed by Postal Ballot on April 23, 2023 approved the termination of the ESOP
Plan, and the transfer of the cash and surplus shares to the other share benefit schemes/
plans (existing or future) implemented or to be implemented by the Company, after meeting
all the obligations under the ESOP Plan.
Syngene Restricted Stock Unit ("RSU") Long Term Incentive
Plan FY 2020
The shareholders, at the 26th Annual General Meeting
("AGM") of the Company held on July 24, 2019 had approved the "Syngene
Restricted Stock Unit ("RSU") Long Term Incentive Plan FY 2020"
(hereinafter referred to as "the RSU Plan") designed to drive performance to
achieve the Board approved strategic plan. The RSU Plan covers key employees who, by
virtue of their roles, influence the accomplishment of the strategic plan. The RSU Plan is
administered by the Trust. The shareholders have also approved at the 26th AGM
the issue and allotment of further equity shares to the Trust over a period of time for
the purpose of implementation of the RSU Plan. Vide special resolution passed through
postal ballot on August 30, 2020, the shareholders had approved variations to the RSU Plan
to streamline the plan with similar plans adopted by group companies to achieve uniformity
in the approach to rewarding employees across the group. Further, at the AGM held on July
20, 2022, the shareholders approved the amendment to the RSU Plan by extending the scope
of the RSU Plan to include the employees of Holding Company, Biocon Limited. The terms of
the modified plan are not detrimental to the interests of the employees of the Company.
The RSU Plan is in compliance with the provisions of SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits
and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021.
During FY25, no options were granted to eligible employees under the
RSU Plan. 5,49,015 equity shares were transferred to eligible employees by the Syngene
Employee Welfare Trust on exercise of stock units.
Syngene Long Term Incentive Performance Share Plan 2023 and Syngene
Long Term Incentive Outperformance Share Plan 2023
The shareholders have vide special resolutions passed by Postal Ballot
on April 23, 2023 approved Syngene Long Term Incentive Performance Share Plan 2023 ("PSP")
and Syngene Long Term Incentive Out performance Share Plan 2023 ("OSP")
for grant of performance share units (PSUs) to eligible employees of the Company, holding
company, subsidiary(ies) including future subsidiary(ies). The Company has granted
17,66,303 PSUs during FY25 under the PSP and the said Plans will be implemented by the
Trust.
The details of ESOP Plan, RSU Plan and PSP form part of the notes to
accounts of the Financial Statements in this Annual Report. The Company has obtained a
certificate from the secretarial auditors of the Company that the plans have been
implemented in accordance with SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity)
Regulations, 2021 and are in accordance with the resolutions passed by the shareholders.
As required under Regulation 14 of the above-mentioned regulations, the applicable
disclosures as on March 31, 2025 concerning all the the plans are available on the website
of the Company at https://www.syngeneintl.com/investors/ share-holder-services/
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT
Your Company upholds the principles of good Corporate Governance
through the adoption of sound management practices, strict compliance with legal
requirements, and a steadfast commitment to transparency and ethical business conduct.
Integrity, fairness, accountability, and adherence to the law are deeply embedded in the
companys operations, ensuring responsible leadership at both the Board and
Management levels. Syngenes Corporate Governance report is a reflection of its
robust values-led culture encompassing professionalism, integrity and excellence, which
has been a key enabler in building stakeholders trust, attracting and retaining
financial and human capitals and meeting societal expectations.
The Companys report on corporate governance for the financial
year ended March 31, 2025 as per regulation 34(3) read with Schedule V of the SEBI Listing
Regulations forms part of the Annual Report.
AUDITORS CERTIFICATE ON CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
As required under Schedule V(E) of SEBI Listing Regulations, the
auditors certificate on compliance with the requirement of corporate governance is
enclosed as Annexure 4 to this Report. The auditors certificate for FY25 does
not contain any qualification, reservation or adverse remarks.
DIRECTORS
The Company continues to fulfil the requirement of Board constitution
as required under the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI Listing Regulations.
Based on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration
Committee (NRC), the Board of Directors appointed Mr. Nilanjan Roy and Ms. Manja Boerman
as Independent Directors effective April 1, 2024 and June 4, 2024 respectively.
Shareholders approved their appointments through postal ballot on June 10, 2024 and at the
Annual General Meeting held on July 23, 2024 respectively. Mr. Paul Blackburn completed
his second term as an Independent Director effective July 23, 2024.
Consequent to the resignation of Mr. Sibaji Biswas from the position of
Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer, the Board of Directors, based on the
recommendation of the NRC after considering the performance and capabilities and in
accordance with the succession planning, appointed Mr. Deepak Jain as Chief Financial
Officer effective December 1, 2024.
After a decade-long association, Jonathan Hunt resigned from the
position of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer effective February 10, 2025, to
pursue other opportunities. Mr. Peter Bains was appointed as the CEO-Designate effective
from the same date to lead the Company and bridge the leadership gap. Considering Mr.
Bains deep domain experience, knowledge, and familiarity with Syngenes
business, subsequently, based on the recommendation of the NRC the Board of Directors
appointed Mr. Peter Bains as an Additional Director designated as the Managing Director
and Chief Executive Officer effective April 1, 2025, for a period of two (2) years, which
is subject to approval of the shareholders.
Prof. Catherine Rosenberg will retire by rotation at the ensuing AGM
and, being eligible, offers herself for re-appointment. The Board recommends her
re-appointment as indicated in the AGM Notice. Her brief resume seeking re-appointment at
the ensuing AGM, in pursuance of Regulation 36(3) of SEBI Listing Regulations, is annexed
to the AGM Notice.
KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
As on March 31, 2025, the Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) as per the
provisions of Section 203 of the Companies Act, 2013, were Deepak Jain, Chief Financial
Officer and Priyadarshini Mahapatra, Company Secretary and Compliance Officer.
POLICY ON DIRECTORS APPOINTMENT AND REMUNERATION
The policy on appointment and remuneration of directors, key managerial
personnel and other persons provides an underlying basis and guidance for human resource
management, thereby aligning plans for strategic growth of the Company. The Companys
Policy on Directors appointment and remuneration, including the criteria for
determining qualifications, positive attributes, independence and other matters, as
provided under
Annual Report FY 2025 91
Section 178(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 is formulated by the Board on
the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee (NRC). The policy has been
uploaded on the website of the Company and is accessible at
https://www.syngeneintl.com/investors/corporate-governance/governance-reports-policies/
DECLARATION BY INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
In accordance with Section 149(7) of the Act, each Independent Director
has confirmed to the Company that he or she meets the criteria of independence laid down
in Section 149(6) of the Act, and is in compliance with Rule 6(3) of the Companies
(Appointment and Qualifications of Directors) Rules, 2014 and Regulation 16(1)(b) of the
SEBI Listing Regulations. Further, each Independent Director has affirmed compliance with
the Code of Conduct for Independent Directors as prescribed in Schedule IV of the Act. The
Board has taken on record such declarations after due assessment of legitimacy.
SEPARATE MEETING OF THE INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
In terms of requirements under Schedule IV of the Act and Regulation
25(3) of the Listing Regulations, four separate meetings of the Independent Directors were
held during FY25. Further details are mentioned in the Corporate Governance report.
BOARD DIVERSITY
A diverse Board enhances efficiency by incorporating a wide range of
perspectives and thought processes, supported by varied scientific, industrial, and
management expertise, as well as diversity in gender, knowledge, and geographical origins.
Recognizing the significance of a diverse composition, the Board has adopted a Board
Diversity Policy that outlines its approach to diversity. The Board diversity policy of
the Company is available on the website of the Company at https://www.syngeneintl.
com/investors/corporate-governance/governance-reports-policies/
BOARD EVALUATION
In compliance with the Companies Act, 2013, and SEBI Listing
Regulations, the annual evaluation of the Board, its Committees, the Chairperson, and
Individual Directors, including Independent Directors, was carried out based on criteria
defined by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee.
For FY 2025, the Board evaluation was conducted by M/s. Egon Zehnder. A
detailed debrief covering the process, findings, and recommendations was presented to the
Board on April 21, 2025. The Board found the evaluation to be highly effective, providing
valuable insights into its overall functioning.
The findings were subsequently reviewed by the Independent Directors
and the Nomination and Remuneration Committee in their respective meetings held on April
23 and April 21, 2025. Further details of the evaluation are included in the Corporate
Governance Report, forming part of this Annual Report.
NUMBER OF MEETINGS OF THE BOARD
The Board met 7 (seven) times during the year under review. The details
of Board meetings and attendance of the Directors are provided in the Corporate Governance
Report.
AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Audit Committee has reviewed the accounts for the year ended March
31, 2025. The Board accepted all recommendations made by the Audit Committee.
The members of the Audit Committee are Sharmila Abhay Karve
(Chairperson), Vinita Bali and Nilanjan Roy, Independent Directors. The list and
composition of the various other Board-level Committees are provided in the Corporate
Governance Report.
ADEQUACY OF INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL
The Company has implemented a robust internal financial controls
framework within the Company with well-defined guidelines, policies, processes and
structures. The Internal Financial Controls have been documented and embedded in the
business processes. These control processes enable and ensure the orderly and efficient
conduct of the Companys business, including safeguarding of assets, prevention and
detection of frauds and errors, the accuracy and completeness of the accounting records
and timely preparation of reliable financial information. There are control processes both
in manual and IT applications including ERP applications, wherein the transactions were
approved and recorded. Review and control mechanisms are built in to ensure that such
control systems are adequate and operating effectively.
The internal control system undergoes regular testing and reviews
conducted by the Independent Internal Auditor, who is appointed by the Audit Committee of
the Board. To uphold the objectivity and independence of the Internal Auditor, the Audit
Committee takes every possible measure, including holding quarterly one-on-one
discussions. Additionally, the Company has a dedicated management audit team responsible
for performing internal control evaluations and follow-up audits. The team is also
responsible for monitoring implementation of action points arising out of internal audits.
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
In compliance with Regulation 21 of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the
Board of Directors has a duly constituted the Risk Management Committee ("the
Committee") to oversee the enterprise-wide risk management framework.
Syngene has an enterprise risk management framework based on which the
key enterprise risks, associated mitigation plans and action updates are reviewed every
quarter by the Risk Management Committee. Specific risk areas are also reviewed in detail
in each such meeting. The Audit Committee has additional oversight in the area of
financial risks and controls. For detailed terms of reference, please refer to the
Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Annual Report.
DIRECTORS RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Based on the framework of internal financial controls established and
maintained by the Company, work performed by the internal, statutory and secretarial
auditors, reviews performed by the management and the relevant Board Committees, the
Board, in concurrence with the Audit Committee, is of the opinion that the Companys
internal financial controls were adequate and effective as on March 31, 2025.
In compliance with Section 134(5) of the Companies Act, 2013, the Board
of Directors, to the best of their knowledge, hereby confirm the following:
(a) In the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicable
accounting standards had been followed along with proper explanation relating to material
departures.
(b) The Directors selected such accounting policies and applied them
consistently and made judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent 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 took proper and sufficient care for the maintenance
of adequate accounting records in accordance with the provisions of this Act for
safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other
irregularities.
(d) The Directors prepared the annual accounts on a going concern
basis.
(e) The Directors laid down internal financial controls to be followed
by the Company and that such internal financial controls are adequate and operating
effectively.
(f ) The Directors devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the
provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems are adequate and operating
effectively.
AUDITORS
Statutory Auditors
B S R & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (Firm Registration No.
101248W/W-100022) were appointed at the 28th AGM held on July 21, 2021 as statutory
auditors of the Company to hold office for a second term of five consecutive years, upto
the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company to be held in 2026. The
Auditors Report on the Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended March
31, 2025 does not contain any qualifications, reservations or adverse remarks. The
Auditors Report is enclosed with the Financial Statements and forms part of the
Annual Report.
Internal Auditors
The Board of Directors, based on the recommendation of the Audit
Committee, appointed Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP ("DTTILLP") as the
Internal Auditors on July 25, 2024 for a period of three (3) years. Due to certain
administrative reasons, the Board of Directors, based on the recommendation of the Audit
Committee, appointed Deloitte India Advisory Services Private Limited as the Internal
Auditors in place of DTTILLP on October 22, 2024 for a period of three (3) years.
Secretarial Auditors
Pursuant to Section 204 of the Companies Act, 2013 and applicable
provisions of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the Board, subject to shareholders
approval at the ensuing General Meeting, appointed M/s. V. Sreedharan & Associates,
Practicing Company Secretaries, as Secretarial Auditors of the Company for a period of
five years, commencing with the audit for FY 2025-26. The detailed rationale and terms for
their appointment is set out in the notice convening the 32nd Annual General
Meeting. The Secretarial Audit Report for the financial year ended March 31, 2025 does not
contain any qualification, reservation or adverse remark and is annexed to this Report as Annexure
5. Pursuant to the SEBI circular vide no. CIR/CFD/CMD/1/27/2019 dated February 8,
2019, the Annual Secretarial Compliance Report for the financial year ended March 31,
2025, issued by M/s. V. Sreedharan & Associates, Practicing Company Secretaries is
attached as Annexure 6 to this Report and shall also be submitted to the stock
exchanges where the shares of the Company are listed.
REPORTING OF FRAUD BY AUDITORS
During the year under review, no instances of fraud have been reported
by the statutory auditors or secretarial auditors to the Audit Committee or to the Board
pursuant to section 143(12) of the Companies Act, 2013, the details of which should form
part of this report.
ANNUAL RETURN
In compliance with Section 92 and Section 134(3)(a) of the Companies
Act, 2013 read with applicable Rules made thereunder, the Annual Return is available on
the Companys website https://www.syngeneintl.com/ investors/share-holder-services/
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
As required under Regulation 34 of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the
Management Discussion and Analysis Report forms part of this Annual Report.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
In accordance with Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, the Company
has established a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Committee, consisting of Professor
Catherine Rosenberg (Chairperson), Dr. Vijay Kuchroo, and Vinita Bali. This Committee
oversees and monitors the Companys various CSR initiatives.
At Syngene, our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) approach reflects
a commitment to inclusive, sustainable development, driven largely through the Biocon
Foundation. Our initiatives focus on science education, community healthcare,
environmental sustainability, and the welfare of women and children. By combining
scientific expertise with a deep sense of social responsibility, we aim to create lasting,
positive change in the communities where we operate.
We promote access to quality science education for underserved students
through experiential learning initiatives such as mobile labs, compact science outreach
vehicles, and inter-school quiz programs. These efforts have strengthened classroom
engagement and fostered curiosity in young learners. We are also supporting the
development of a postgraduate medical school and non-profit hospital, while helping women
from underrepresented communities pursue STEM careers through scholarships, mentorship,
and internships guided by industry professionals.
In healthcare, we continue to extend the reach of primary care through
smart clinics in remote and tribal areas. These clinics use digital tools for diagnostics
and consultation, improving timely access to care. Additional specialist services address
areas such as maternal health, child wellness, geriatrics, oral hygiene, and chronic
conditions. Our community outreach programs include cancer screening, preventive health
education, and student wellness checks. Mental health is another key focus, supported
through initiatives that promote emotional resilience, address peripartum mental health,
and raise awareness among students and vulnerable groups. Our environmental sustainability
efforts include supporting metro infrastructure development near our Bangalore campus,
with enhancements such as public art installations and green space development along the
corridor. These efforts promote urban livability and support the shift toward low-carbon
transportation.
Employees across all campuses actively engage in CSR activities,
contributing to healthcare initiatives, awareness drives, and community service programs.
We also continue to invest in skill development through the Biocon Academy, which offers
industry-aligned training for science graduates, ensuring they are well-prepared for
careers in the life sciences sector.
This integrated CSR strategy reflects our belief that responsible
business practices and community advancement go hand in hand, enabling shared progress and
long-term value creation.
BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Syngene had voluntarily adopted the Business Responsibility and
Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) framework introduced by the Securities and Exchange Board
of India (SEBI) for FY22, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development. In
continuation of this journey, and in compliance with Regulation 34(2)(f ) of the SEBI
Listing Regulations, the BRSR forms part of this Annual Report for FY25. It outlines the
Companys ESG strategy, including enhanced voluntary leadership disclosures, to
foster meaningful stakeholder engagement.
The BRSR presents the Companys performance against the principles
of the National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct, and highlights key
environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives and their impact. For FY2025,
Deutsch Quality Systems (India) Private Limited conducted an assurance of the BRSR Core
Indicators, and no observations were noted.
WHISTLE BLOWER POLICY/VIGIL MECHANISM
The Companys Whistle blower policy allows employees, Directors
and other stakeholders to report genuine grievances, corruption, fraud, misconduct,
misappropriation of assets, and non-compliance with the Code of ethics and business
conduct of the Company or any other unethical practices. The policy provides adequate
safeguard against victimisation to the whistleblower and enables them to raise concerns to
the Integrity Committee and provides an option of direct access to the Chairman of the
Audit Committee. In order to maintain the highest level of confidentiality and foster an
environment of honesty, the Company has appointed an outsourced agency Navex Global to
receive the complaints and co-ordinate with the whistleblower, if required. During FY 25,
no individuals have been denied access to the Chairman of the Audit Committee.
The Whistleblower Policy is available on the Companys website at
https:// www.syngeneintl.com/investors/corporate-governance/governance-reports-policies/
DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 22 OF THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT
WORKPLACE (PREVENTION, PROHIBITION AND REDRESSAL), ACT, 2013
Syngene has a strict Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy (POSH) in
accordance with the statutory requirements of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The Policy is applicable to all
employees including the Companys contractual employees. The Company is committed to
providing a workplace that is free from discrimination, harassment and victimisation,
regardless of gender, race, creed, religion, place of origin, sexual orientation of a
person employed or engaged with the Company. The Internal Committee (IC) has
been constituted to consider and redress all complaints of sexual harassment at workplace.
Employee sensitisation programs on POSH were conducted during the year. In FY 25, there
were 5 complaints which was received and closed within the stipulated timeline.
SIGNIFICANT AND MATERIAL ORDERS BY THE REGULATORS OR COURTS OR
TRIBUNALS
During FY25 there have been no significant and material orders passed
by the regulators or courts or tribunals impacting the going concern status and the
Companys operations in future.
STATUTORY DISCLOSURES
None of the Directors of the Company are disqualified as per provisions
of Section 164(2) of the Companies Act, 2013. Your Directors have made necessary
disclosures, as required under various provisions of the Act and SEBI Listing Regulations.
SECRETARIAL STANDARD DISCLOSURE
The Company has complied with the provisions of applicable secretarial
standards, issued by The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).
GREEN INITIATIVE
We request all the shareholders to support the Green
Initiative of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Syngenes continued
endeavours for greener environment by enabling service of Annual Report, AGM Notice and
other documents electronically to your email address registered with your Depository
Participant/ Registrar and Share Transfer Agent. We also request all the investors whose
email ID is not registered to take necessary steps to register their email ID with the
Depository Participant/ Registrar and Transfer Agent.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We would like to place on record our deep sense of appreciation to
Syngene employees for their contribution and services. We would like to thank all our
clients, vendors, bankers, investors, media and other business associates for their
continued support and encouragement during the year.
We also thank the Government of India; the Government of Karnataka,
Government of Telangana; the Ministry of Information Technology and Biotechnology; the
Ministry of Commerce and Industry; the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs; the
Department of Scientific and Industrial Research; Central Board of Indirect Taxes and
Customs; the Reserve Bank of India; the Central Board of Direct Tax; SEZs (Special
Economic Zones), BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) and all other
government agencies for their support during FY25 and look forward to their continued
support in future.
For and on behalf of the Board
Kiran Mazumdar Shaw |
Non-Executive Chairperson |
Syngene International Limited |
Place: Bengaluru |
Date: April 23, 2025 |