<dhhead>Boards Report</dhhead>
Your Directors are pleased to present the 46th Annual Report together
with the Audited Financial Statements of the Company
for the financial year ended March 31, 2025.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
( in million)
Rs.In Million
Particulars
Sales and Other Income |
2024-25 |
2023-24 |
|
17,569 |
13,303 |
Profit/(Loss) Before Tax |
1,564 |
2,195 |
Provision for Taxation |
|
|
- Income Tax |
605 |
589 |
- Adjustment for Deferred Tax |
(199) |
(9) |
Total Tax |
406 |
580 |
Profit/(Loss) after Taxation |
1,157 |
1,615 |
Other comprehensive income/ (loss) for the
year |
(12) |
10 |
Total comprehensive income for the year |
1,146 |
1,625 |
Surplus brought forward from the previous
year |
5,781 |
4,556 |
Impact of Ind AS 116 |
- |
- |
Total amount available for appropriation |
6,927 |
6,181 |
Appropriation made by Directors |
|
|
Transfer to General Reserve |
- |
- |
Appropriation recommended by Directors |
|
|
Dividend |
(600) |
(400) |
Tax on proposed Dividend |
- |
- |
Surplus carried over |
6,327 |
5,781 |
Distribution of Total Revenue (%)
Materials Manpower Expenses Depreciation Financial Cost Exceptional
Items
Net Profit/Loss after tax
Dividend
The Board is pleased to recommend dividend of 32/- per equity share
of 2 each, which if approved at the
forthcoming Annual General Meeting, will be paid to all those equity
shareholders of the Company whose names appear
in the Register of Members and whose
names appear as beneficial owners as per the beneficiary list furnished
for the purpose by National Securities Depository Limited and Central
Depository Services (India) Limited as on
record date fixed for this purpose.
Net worth Sales Performance*
( in million) ( in million)
2,179
50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50
* including Exports
Business
The Company registered product sales of 16,084 million versus last
year sales of 12,056 million delivering growth of 33%. Also, the Company achieved a
total comprehensive income of 1,146 million during the financial year 2024-25.
In line with its global strategy, the Companys emphasis on growth
through innovation has proven successful, as evidenced by pioneering molecules such as
Osimertinib
(Tagrisso), Trastuzumab-Deruxtecan (Enhertu), Durvalumab (Imfinzi),
Benralizumab (Fasenra), Ticagrelor (Brilinta), and Selumetinib (Koselugo).
Oncology Business Unit
In the financial year 2024-25, the Oncology Business, continued to
significantly advance our mission to push the boundaries of science, to change the
practice of medicine and transform the lives of patients living with cancer.
We are leading a revolution to transform cancer care. Our ambition is
to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. We seek to transform outcomes for people living
with cancer through innovative edicines, powerful combinations and a world- class,
purpose-driven team. Our commercial strategy is to transform patient outcomes centres on
three key areas:
- Medicines that matter: building transformative brands that raise the standard of care
for patients.
- Leveraging scale: strengthening leadership and expertise in key tumour types (lung,
genitourinary/ gynaecological, breast and gastrointestinal).
- Transforming patient care: closing the care gaps to deliver optimal care for every
patient, improving access and building more resilient healthcare systems through
partnerships.
We continued to deliver strong performance across our priority tumour
areas of Lung, Breast, Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary and Gynaecological cancers, with
the overall oncology business achieving growth of 49% during financial year 2024-25. Our
therapy area growth and leadership are underpinned by accelerating emerging and
differentiated science in collaboration with key External Experts and Medical societies to
Oncology fraternity as well as shaping diagnostic landscape.
Lung Cancer
Scientific advances in early detection and precision medicine are
strengthening the potential to offer meaningful patient outcomes and long-term survival in
lung cancer.
We have a comprehensive portfolio, along with a promising pipeline of
potential new medicines and combinations across diverse mechanisms of action.
Tagrisso continues to be a standard of care for appropriate and
indicated lung cancer patients in both advanced and early-stage resectable settings, who
harbor an EGFR mutation. Tagrisso is one of the top five oncology brands in India as per
IPSOS MAT December 2024 and continues to be the largest oncology brand by sales for the
Company.
Imfinzi, another top five oncology brands in India as per IPSOS MAT
December 2024 data, has key indications in Lung Cancer across both Non-Small Cell and
Small Cell Lung Cancer and has demonstrated robust growth across lung cancer indications
in 2024-2025. This year,
the Company launched two new indications, AEGEAN, for appropriate and
indicated patients with early stage
resectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and ADRIATIC, for appropriate and
indicated patients with limited Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer.
Our commitment to advance patient outcomes in Lung Cancer extends
beyond our medicines and during the year we were excited to continue and expand on
initiatives to increase early diagnosis of lung cancer in collaboration with our partners
across states such as Goa and Karnataka.
Breast Cancer
We are aiming to redefine clinical practice and transform outcomes
across all subtypes and stages of breast cancer. Our portfolio of approved and promising
medicines in development, leverage different mechanisms of action
to address the biologically diverse breast cancer tumour environment.
A key catalyst for our growth in breast cancer was the launch of
Transtuzumab Deruxtecan (Enhertu) for HER- 2 positive metastatic breast cancer in January
2024.
Enhertu continued to see strong adoption in indicated patient segments
and has become a Top Ten oncology brand in India within the first year of launch, as per
IPSOS MAT December 2024 data. This year saw the expansion of indicated patients for
Enhertu with the launch of a new
indication for appropriate patients with HER2-low metastatic breast
cancer, based on the DB-04 trial. The Company continues to partner with stakeholders
across the healthcare ecosystem to improve reporting of HER2 status for patients with
Breast Cancer.
Gastrointestinal Cancer
We have a broad and robust portfolio and development programme for the
treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers in many stages and disease types across
multiple approved and potential new medicines. Imfinzi in GI cancers was a major growth
driver in 2024-25, based on approvals in BTC (TOPAZ-1) and uHCC (HIMALAYA) indications.
Given the high prevalence of Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers in India,
AstraZeneca is committed to bringing innovative
treatment solutions to support patients with GI cancers. The last
financial year saw the continued adoption of TOPAZ 1 indication with Imfinzi (Durvalumab)
as a standard of care for indicated patients with advanced Biliary Tract Cancer (BTC). A
key highlight of our efforts in GI cancers was the launch of Imjudo (Tremelimumab), in
combination with Imfinzi, the HIMALAYA indication for appropriate patients with
unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma (uHCC). The Company is seeing strong early adoption
of the HIMALAYA indication in the first few months post-launch.
Enhertu continues to be another key part of our GI portfolio and
continues to see increased adoption for appropriate and indicated patients with HER2
positive metastatic gastric cancer.
Genitourinary/Gynaecological Cancers: In genitourinary and
gynaecological cancers, the Company aims to transform treatment paradigms through the
delivery of innovative treatments that will redefine patient outcomes.
The Company expects to build on our current portfolio of Lynparza and
Zoladex with additional indications encompassing Imfinzi and additional new products. In
March 2024, with the loss of patent exclusivity in India for Lynparza,
we saw the launch of several generic versions of Olaparib and consequently expected
erosion in the market share for Lynparza.
Overall, the Company is excited at the progress achieved by
our oncology business in the financial year 2024-25.
Biopharmaceutical Business Unit
In the financial year 2024-25, BioPharmaceutical division remained
steadfast in advancing our mission of life altering solutions to patients. The Company
continued its strategy around Access and Specialists, further enhancing with new launches
in Biopharmaceutical division. Despite facing competition from generic brands, overall
Biopharmaceutical Business demonstrated robust performance, achieving a noteworthy growth
of 8% during the financial year.
Ticagrelor (Brilinta) is approved for treatment in Acute
Coronary Syndrome (ACS) and used in high-risk Post MI patients further gaining momentum
with an achievement of financial year growth of 12% despite LOE by parent company and 35+
generic brands (IQVIA Sales audit MAT December 2024). The Companys continued focus
on the awareness of use of potent anti-platelet drugs in ACS including science behind the
product and its Cath Lab
coverage led us to this achievement despite the presence of several
generics in the market.
Fasenra the first Biologic from AstraZeneca to treat Severe
Eosinophilic Asthma (SEA) has touched more than 1091 patients. It is regarded as the most
effective, convenient, and safe therapy for SEA by the pulmonologists and patients.
Fasenra continues to consolidate #1 Biologic brand position with 46% value market share
(Source: RS Associates, Sales audit 2024) growing at 79%.
The Company received Palivizumab (Synagis) import and
market permission, and the product was launched in October 2024. It is indicated for the
prevention of serious lower respiratory tract disease requiring hospitalisation caused by
respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children at high risk for RSV disease. Indias
largest association of paediatricians continues to drive nationwide awareness around RSV.
This initiative is focused on educating healthcare professionals about
the serious risks RSV poses to premature infants and emphasised the importance of timely
prophylactic intervention to prevent morbidity and mortality associated with this disease.
The Company and the National Neonatology Forum (NNF) also initiated a
strategic collaboration to enhance awareness, prevention, and management of RSV among
neonates in India. NNF later took upon themselves
to generate a recommendation on the use of the first prophylactic
measure for the high-risk children and published guidance document on Palivizumab in these
children which was put forward on their website.
Since launch, this collective effort has had a meaningful impact, with
the potential to protect over 500 neonates across the country marking a significant
step towards reducing RSV-related morbidity in vulnerable newborns.
The Company was awarded with OPPI medical excellence award 2024 for its
transformative work on Synagis.
In January 2025, the Company launched its first chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD) therapy - Breztri Aerosphere, a fixed-dose
combination inhaler designed for the maintenance treatment of COPD. Breztri leverages
AstraZenecas proprietary Aerosphere delivery technology, a cutting-edge pMDI
device that achieves approximately 50% lung deposition, significantly enhancing drug
delivery efficiency compared to conventional inhalers. This optimised deposition leads to
improved clinical outcomes, including a reduction in overall mortality, particularly
cardiovascular mortality and a decrease in exacerbation rates.
Since its launch, Breztri has gained rapid clinical acceptance across
India, with over 1,500 patients initiated on therapy within the first quarter alone. The
inhalers ease of use, robust efficacy, and once-daily convenience have resonated
well with both physicians and patients.
Forxiga franchise, as part of the SGLT2 class of drug (Sodium
Glucose Cotransporter Inhibitors), faced strong headwinds from 350+ generic brands (IQVIA
Sales audit MAT Dec 2024) of Dapagliflozin and its combinations.
Forxiga 5/10mg in private segment showcased 13% growth, while the
Company continues to focus on high science of Forxiga 5/10 mg in indications of Heart
Failure and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) which are helping SGLT2 inhibitors to be used
early for these indications irrespective of the presence of type 2 diabetes.
Post entering into the distribution agreement with Mankind Pharma
Limited for Symbicort, the brand grew by 48% with wider reach and higher share of voice
helping patients for better Asthma control.
Rare Disease Business Unit:
In the financial year 2024-25, the Company solidified its commitment to
rare diseases and expanded the label of Koselugo (Selumetinib), continuing its position as
the first and only approved therapy for the treatment of pediatric patients with
neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) with inoperable plexiform neurofibromas (PN).
Preparedness for the launch of Soliris (Eculizumab) in India, aiming at
indications of atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) and Paroxysmal Nocturnal
Hemoglobinuria (PNH), demonstrates our dedication to addressing
significant unmet needs in these spaces. We embarked on a robust programme for scientific
dissemination on differential diagnosis of Thrombotic
Microangiopathy (TMA), enabling timely aHUS diagnosis through 825+
medical interactions, over 15 awareness programmes at regional and national conferences,
and more than seven scientific events led by globally acknowledged opinion leaders in the
aHUS and PNH domain.
The Companys efforts to build a formal community with
organisations like aHUS India Foundation and PNH India Alliance have been profound.
Continuing its commitment, the Company has advanced its pursuits to advocate for the
increase in Centers of Excellence (COEs) across the country, collaborating with Industry
Associations to ensure patients gain seamless access to conditions notified under the
National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD).
The Company heightened its advocacy efforts by participating in a
roundtable meeting on Rare Disease with the Sweden embassy and the Government of India,
focusing on NPRD expansion and centralised procurement. The Companys participation
in Race for 7 in collaboration with ORDI and Walk for Rare
underscored its partnership with the Rare Disease India Foundation and JK Lone hospital,
Government of Rajasthan, raising awareness and support for rare disease patients.
Moreover, a panel discussion led by the state nodal officer emphasised improving access to
new therapies for aHUS and NF1, reflecting the importance of collaboration, education, and
proactive action in enhancing the lives of individuals with rare diseases.
The Company is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of
rare disease patients in India. Its endeavours are continued to strengthen efforts for NF1
policy inclusion, address the aHUS and PNH unmet needs through the launch of Soliris.
Therapeutic Area-wise Sales contribution (%)
32 mn, 0.7%
4,881 mn, 30.3%
safety, and the importance of vehicle maintenance was emphasised
through annual vehicle checks carried out for two wheelers in the field. Emergency
evacuations carried out regularly at the Companys Head Office demonstrated a
commitment to create a safe and supportive work environment for all employees. Annual
health check-up
April 24 -
March 25
was rolled out for employees in field and head office of the
Company.
Oncology
Rare Disease
Manufacturing
Biopharmaceticals
Human Resources and Employee Relations
Building on our commitment to being a Great Place to Work, the Company
continues to develop capabilities for the future through targeted and inclusive
development programmes, from early talent to enterprise leaders. The digital learning
portal supports a continuous learning mindset, underpinning a high-performing and
innovative organisation. Our development programmes help us to unlock potential,
drive innovation and foster an inclusive culture building the
capabilities of diverse future leaders in support of our
The Companys exceptional safety and quality performance has
continued by maintaining high standards, with zero Lost Time Injuries and no critical
observations in both its internal and external quality audits.
Following the Companys announcement regarding closure of its
manufacturing site, it has been in the process of transitioning its products to an
alternative supply site ensuring the patients continue to receive an uninterrupted supply
of its products. The site has ensured that the supply is maintained for meeting
patients demand.
Additionally, the commitment to sustainability was upheld and remained
focused on sustainability initiatives throughout this transition.
Material changes and commitment, if any, affecting financial position
of the Company from the end of the financial year and till the date of this Report
There has been no material change and commitment affecting the
financial performance of the Company which occurred between the end of the financial year
of the Company to which the financial statements relate and the date of this Report.
Deposits
During the year under review, the Company has neither accepted nor
renewed any deposits from the public within the meaning of Section 73 of the Companies
Act, 2013 and the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014.
people strategy.
During the year, the Company invested in talent development programmes
to accelerate the talent pipeline for country leadership roles, with continued investment
in education, exposure, and experience through global, regional, and
local programmes, job rotations and stretch assignments.
At AstraZeneca, we place Inclusion before Diversity. That is because we
first focus on creating a culture of inclusion and belonging, which enables us to attract
and retain a rich and diverse workforce. Our global commitment to inclusion and diversity
is woven into what we do and is reflected in our values and the behaviours that underpin
them. Our employees represent a diverse range of backgrounds,
and we recognise that everyone plays a role in inclusion and diversity.
The Companys commitment to Inclusion and Diversity is enabling it to future-proof
its business by ensuring we continue to attract and retain top talent from various
backgrounds and with different experiences.
The Companys performance development approach reflects the
innovative, high-performing Company it is. Performance development is part of the
Companys commitment to its people and plays an important role in creating a culture
of growth, a culture that enables each of the Companys employee to maximise their
potential and continue to develop in order to collectively meet the Companys Bold
Ambition. The Companys values are central to employee reward and performance, and
are the basis for CatAlyZe global recognition platform.
Number of Employees
The total number of employees of the Company as on March 31, 2025 was
802 as against 940 as on March 31, 2024.
Legal Matters
In the last years Boards Report, members were interalia informed
about arbitration proceedings initiated by National Highway Authority of India (NHAI)
before Arbitrator at Bengaluru in relation to first acquisition of land made by NHAI in
2004 and the arbitration proceedings invoked by the Company seeking, inter-alia,
enhancement of compensation from NHAI in respect of second acquisition of land made
by NHAI in 2011. The Arbitration proceedings initiated by NHAI was
heard and reserved for passing award. As regard to Arbitration on the second acquisition
by NHAI, there has been no reportable development.
Further, the members were also informed about Writ Petition filed by
the Company before the Honble High Court of Karnataka challenging the demand notice
received
from Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) dated August 7, 2014
demanding improvement charges from the Company and the interim stay granted by the
Honble
High Court of Karnataka. Thereafter matter was heard and reserved for
judgement, however the court had posted
the matter back for further hearing. The matter came up for further
hearing multiple times and on April 4, 2024, the matter was removed from part heard
category and posted
the matter for fresh hearing. On January 10, 2025 the matter
was taken up for final hearing and the Honble High Court of
Karnataka, without going into the merits of the matter and on the ground that the impugned
circular challenged in the writ petition is already considered by the coordinate bench of
the Honble High Court, dismissed the Writ
Petition. Aggrieved by the order dated January 10, 2025, the Company
has filed Writ Appeal before the Division Bench of the Honble High Court of
Karnataka.
In the last years Boards Report, the members were also
informed about the Company receiving a demand notice for an amount of 157.39 crore (and
interest thereupon) under Trade Margin Rationalisation notification (TMR
notification) from National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) alleging
overcharging of a patented anti-cancer drug sold during the period of March 8, 2019 to
January 31, 2021. The said drug has been included with certain other anti-cancer
medicines, on which trade margin caps are applicable under TMR notification. Based on
evaluation, management is of the view that the TMR notification is not applicable to the
aforesaid patented drug and all applicable laws relating to the pricing of the product
have been complied with. The Company has filed a Writ Petition before the High Court of
Delhi challenging the NPPAs demand notice, and the same
is currently pending for final hearing.
Transfer to Investor Education and Protection Fund There were no
amounts which were required to be transferred to the Investor Education and Protection
Fund by the Company in the financial year 2024-25.
Directors Responsibility Statement
To the best of our knowledge and belief and according to the
information and explanations obtained by us, your
Directors state in terms of Section 134 (5) of the Companies Act, 2013
(the Act):
- that in the preparation of the annual financial statements for the year ended March 31,
2025, the applicable accounting standards have been followed along with proper explanation
relating to material departures, if any.
- that they had selected such accounting policies and applied them consistently and made
judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as to give a true and fair view
of the state of affairs of the Company for the year ended March 31, 2025 and of the profit
and loss of the Company on that date.
- that they had taken proper and sufficient care for the maintenance of adequate
accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Act for safeguarding the
assets of the Company and for
preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities.
- that they had prepared the annual financial statements
on a going concern basis.
- that they had laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the Company and
that such internal financial controls are adequate and were operating effectively.
- that they had devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions of all
applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating effectively.
The details in respect of internal financial controls and their
adequacy are included in the Management Discussion & Analysis Report, which forms part
of this Report.
Disclosure as required under Section 22 of Sexual Harassment of Women
at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013
The Company is committed to provide a healthy environment to all its
employees. There is zero tolerance of discrimination and/or harassment in any form. The
Company has in place a Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy and an Internal Complaints
Committee as per the requirements of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
During the financial year under review, there was one complaint
received by the Internal Complaints Committee. The Internal Complaints Committee disposed
off two complaints during the year and none are pending at the end of the year.
The Company has complied with the provisions relating to the
constitution of Internal Complaints Committee under the Sexual Harassment of Women at
Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Board Meetings
During the financial year, 11 Meetings of the Board were held. For
details of the meetings of the Board, please refer to the Corporate Governance Report,
which forms part of this Report.
Board Evaluation
Pursuant to the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (Listing
Regulations), performance evaluation exercise was carried out for evaluation of the
performance of the Board as a Whole, the Chairperson, Independent Directors and the
Non-Independent Directors.
The Company had formulated a questionnaire to carry out the evaluation
exercise. The questionnaire has been
structured to embed various parameters based on identified criteria
such as composition, functioning of board/ committees, process, individual
roles/obligations etc., and framework to carry out the evaluation effectively.
Further as part of the process, Chairperson of the Nomination and
Remuneration Committee provided feedback to the Board members on the evaluation carried.
As required under Listing Regulations, the Independent Directors held a
separate meeting on February 11, 2025. All Independent Directors attended the meeting. The
Independent Directors discussed/reviewed the matters specified in Regulation 25(4) of the
Listing Regulations.
Nomination and Remuneration Policy of the Company
The Company has adopted a Nomination and Remuneration Policy relating
to the appointment and remuneration
of Directors, Key Managerial Personnel and Senior Executives of the
Company, which inter alia govern the selection / nomination of Board members,
appointment to Senior Management levels, review and approval of their remuneration etc.
The policy is available at https:// www.astrazeneca.in/content/dam/az-in/pdf/files/
AprNomination%20and%20Remuneration%20Policy.pdf
Vigil Mechanism / Whistle-Blower Policy
The Company has a vigil mechanism for Directors and Employees to report
their concerns about unethical behavior, actual or suspected fraud or violation of the
Companys code of conduct. The mechanism provides for adequate safeguards to
Director(s)/Employee(s) who avail of the mechanism. In exceptional cases, Directors and
Employees have direct access to the Chairperson of the Audit Committee. The Whistle
Blowing Policy is available at https://www.astrazeneca.in/content/dam/az-in/pdf/2024/
Whistle-Blowing-Policy.pdf
Dividend Distribution Policy
Pursuant to the requirements of Regulation 43A of the SEBI Listing
Regulations, the Dividend Distribution Policy of the Company is available at https://www.astrazeneca.
in/content/dam/az-in/pdf/2024/mar/Dividend-Distribution- Policy.pdf
Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption,
Foreign Exchange Earnings and Outgo
The information on Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption and
Foreign Exchange earnings and outgo as stipulated under Section 134 (3) (m) of the
Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 8 of The Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 is annexed as
Annexure I, which forms part of this Report.
Related Party Transactions
There are no materially significant related party transactions made by
the Company with the Promoters, Directors, Key Managerial Personnel and Senior Management
which may have a potential conflict with the interest of the Company at large.
The Company entered into materially significant related party
transactions with AstraZeneca UK Limited and AstraZeneca AB, Sweden for purchase, transfer
and receipt of products, goods, material, services and reimbursement
on account of transfer price or other obligations which were within the
limits approved by the members of the Company.
Further, the members of the Company have also
approved the materially significant related party transactions to be
entered into by the Company with AstraZeneca UK Limited and AstraZeneca AB, Sweden for the
period from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026.
All Related Party Transactions are placed before the Audit Committee
for its prior approval. Omnibus approval of the Audit Committee is obtained for
transactions which are repetitive in nature or when the need for them cannot be foreseen
in advance.
The Company has adopted a Policy for dealing with Related Party
Transactions. The Policy as approved by the Board is available at https://www.astrazeneca.in/content/dam/az-in/
pdf/2025/investor_relations_section_DU/Policy%20on%20 Related%20Party%20Transactions.pdf
Details of the related party transactions as required under Section
134(3)(h) read with Rule 8 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, are annexed as
Annexure II, which forms part of this Report.
Risk Management
The Company has in place a mechanism to inform the Board about the risk
assessment and minimisation procedures
and periodical review is carried out to ensure that executive
management controls risks by means of a properly defined framework.
The Company has formulated a Risk Management Policy which will guide
the Risk Management Committee and the internal team to effectively manage the risks that
the business faces.
The details of Risk Management Committee and its terms of reference are
set out in the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this report.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
The Company is focused on accelerating the delivery of life- changing
medicines that create enduring value for people, society and the planet.
The Company aims to drive positive change beyond the impact of its
medicines by embedding sustainability into everything we do from the lab to the
patient.
As a responsible, ethical global Company, we are tackling the biggest
sustainability challenges of our time, including the climate crisis, biodiversity loss,
health equity and health
system resilience. These are interconnected and require collaboration
within and beyond the health sector.
Sustainability at AstraZeneca means harnessing the power of science and
innovation and our global reach to build
a healthy future for people, society and the planet. The Companys
inter-connected pronged sustainability priorities include:
- Access to healthcare:
To address health equity and achieve affordable, sustainable
and innovative care for all, the Company is increasing access to medicines and
strengthening health systems through sustainable initiatives, industry and community
partnerships.
- Environment protection:
Through collaboration, engaging with suppliers, and managing
the environmental impact and emissions of the Companys operations, it is tackling
the climate crisis by decarbonising its value chain and accelerating the delivery of
net-zero healthcare. The Company is also promoting biodiversity and building ecological
and community resilience.
- Ethics and transparency:
The Company is creating positive impact on society and
behaving with transparency across its value chain, promoting ethical, inclusive and
diverse policies and initiatives, including with its partners and suppliers.
From increasing access to healthcare through digital innovation, to
reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring ethical, transparent and inclusive
behaviours, the Company is making a difference by contributing to a more sustainable
future.
The Corporate Social Responsibility Policy is available at https://www.astrazeneca.in/content/dam/az-in/pdf/files/
Corporate%20Social%20Responsibility%20PolicyS.pdf
The Annual Report on CSR activities in terms of the requirements of
Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014 is annexed herewith as
Annexure III, which forms part of this Report.
Annual Return
In terms of the requirements of Section 92(3) of the Act read with Rule
12 of the Companies (Management and
Administration) Rules, 2014, the Annual Return is available at
https://www.astrazeneca.in/annual-return.html.
Details of remuneration of Directors/Key
Managerial Personnel
The information relating to remuneration of Directors/Key Managerial
Personnel as required under Section 197(12) read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies
(Appointment and
Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 of the Act, is
annexed as Annexure - IV, which forms part of this Report.
Particulars of Employees
The statement under Rule 5(2) and 5(3) of the Companies (Appointment
and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, are set out in Annexure V,
which forms part of this Report.
However, the said Annexure shall be provided to members on a specific
request made in writing to the Company. The said information is open for inspection and
any member interested in obtaining the copy of the same may write to the Company
Secretary.
Management Discussion and Analysis Report Management Discussion and
Analysis Report as required under the Listing Regulations is annexed as Annexure - VI,
which forms part of this Report.
Corporate Governance
A detailed report on corporate governance as required under the Listing
Regulations is annexed as Annexure VII, which will form a part of this Report. Certificate
of the
Practising Company Secretary regarding compliance with the conditions
stipulated in the Listing Regulations forms part of the Report on Corporate Governance.
Reporting of Frauds
There was no instance of fraud during the year under review, which
required the Statutory Auditors to report to the Audit Committee and/or the Board, as
required under Section 143(12) of the Act and Rules framed thereunder.
Particulars of Loans, Guarantees or Investments During the year
under review, the Company has not granted any Loan, or provided any Guarantees or made
Investments within the meaning of Section 186 of the Companies Act, 2013.
Significant and material orders passed by the
Regulators or Courts or Tribunals
During the year under review, there was no significant and material
orders passed by the Regulators or Courts or Tribunals impacting the going concern status
of the Company.
Committees
Pursuant to Section 178 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules made
thereunder, the Board of Directors at its meeting held on May 30, 2014, had constituted
the Nomination & Remuneration Committee and the Stakeholders Relationship
Committee. Pursuant to
Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules made thereunder,
the Board of Directors at its meeting held on August 12, 2014 had constituted the
Corporate Social Responsibility Committee. Further, pursuant to Regulation 21 of the
Listing Regulations, the Board of Directors at its meeting held on February 6, 2019 had
constituted the Risk Management Committee. Details of these Committees including the Audit
Committee are furnished in the Corporate Governance Report.
Directors and Key Managerial Personnel
The Companies Act, 2013 provides for appointment of Independent
Directors, who shall hold office for a term up to five consecutive years on the Board of
the Company and shall be eligible for re-appointment on passing of a special resolution by
the Company. Further, the provisions of retirement by rotation as envisaged under Section
152 of the Companies Act, 2013, shall not apply to such Independent
Directors. The Independent Directors of the Company, Ms. Shilpa Divekar Nirula, Ms.
Revathy Ashok and Ms. Monica Widhani, have furnished the required declaration under the
provisions of Section 149 of the Companies Act, 2013, affirming that they meet the
criteria of independence.
Changes to the Board of Directors
The following Directorship changes occurred in the Board during the
year:
Retirement/ Resignation from the Board:
- Mr. Ankush Nandra (Non-executive Director) resigned with effect from May 27, 2024 due to
change in his roles and responsibilities within AstraZeneca Group.
- Mr. Narayan K. Seshadri retired from the office of Chairman and Independent Director
with effect from September 29, 2024.
Appointments to the Board:
- Ms. Monica Widhani was appointed as Additional Director (Non-Executive) of the Company
by the Board of Directors, with effect from September 25, 2024. In the opinion of the
Board, Ms. Monica Widhani possess requisite integrity, expertise, experience and
proficiency.
- Mr. Jesus Javier Diaz-Ropero Esteso was appointed as Additional Director (Non-Executive)
of the Company by the Board of Directors, with effect from November 13, 2024.
Further, Ms. Monica Widhani and Mr. Jesus Javier Diaz- Ropero Esteso
were appointed as Directors of the Company with effect from December 22, 2024 by the
members of the Company through the Postal Ballot process.
Pursuant to Section 152 of the Companies Act, 2013,
Ms. Hooi Bien Chuah, Non-Executive Director will retire by rotation at
the ensuing Annual General Meeting and being eligible, offers herself for re-appointment.
A resolution on this behalf is set out at Item No. 3 of the Notice of the Annual General
Meeting.
Pursuant to the provisions of Regulation 36 of the Listing Regulations
and Secretarial Standards on General Meetings, brief resume and other disclosures relating
to the Director who is proposed to be re-appointed are given in the Annexure to the Notice
of the 46th Annual General Meeting.
The details of familiarisation programme and annual board evaluation
process for Directors have been provided in the Corporate Governance Report.
As on date, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Panchal, Managing Director, Ms. Bhavana
Agrawal, Chief Financial Officer & Director and Ms. Manasa. R, Company Secretary, are
the Key Managerial Personnel of the Company.
Auditors
Statutory Auditors:
At the Annual General Meeting held on August 9, 2021, the
present statutory auditors, M/s. Price Waterhouse & Co. Chartered
Accountants LLP (Firm Registration No. 304026E/ E-300009), were re-appointed as statutory
auditors of the Company for a period of 5 years viz., till the conclusion of 47th Annual
General Meeting.
Secretarial Auditors:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Companies Act, 2013
and Rule 9 of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules,
2014 and amendments made thereto, the Company engaged the services of Mr. Vijayakrishna
K.T., Practicing Company Secretary to conduct the Secretarial Audit of the Company for the
financial year ended March 31, 2025. The Secretarial Audit Report for the financial year
2024-25 does not contain any qualification, reservation or adverse remark.
The comments made by the Secretarial Auditor are self explanatory. The
Secretarial Audit Report in Form MR-3 is annexed as Annexure VIII, which forms part
of this Report.
The Company has complied with the Secretarial Standards issued by the
Institute of Company Secretaries of India on Board Meetings and Annual General Meetings.
Pursuant to Regulation 24A of the SEBI Listing Regulations, basis the
recommendation of the Board of Directors of the
Company, a proposal for approval by the members of the Company for the
appointment of M/s. Makarand M. Joshi & Co. as the secretarial auditor for a period of
five consecutive years from the financial year 2025-26 is included in the Notice of the
46th Annual General Meeting.
Cost Auditors:
The Board of Directors of the Company, based on recommendation of the
Audit Committee, has appointed M/s. Rao, Murthy & Associates, Cost Accountants,
Bengaluru, (holding Registration No.000065), as Cost Auditor of the Company, for
conducting the Cost Audit for the financial year 2025-26, on a remuneration as mentioned
in the Notice convening the 46th Annual General Meeting.
A Certificate from M/s. Rao, Murthy & Associates, Cost Accountants,
has been received to the effect that their appointment as Cost Auditor of the Company is
in accordance with the limits specified under Section 141 of the Act and Rules framed
thereunder.
Cost Audit Report for the financial year 2023-24 was filed
with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs on September 4, 2024.
The Company maintains the cost records as specified by the
Central Government under section 148 (1) of the Act.
Acknowledgements
Your Directors take this opportunity to thank AstraZeneca
Pharmaceuticals AB, Sweden and AstraZeneca PLC,
UK for their valuable guidance and strong support to the Companys
operations during the year.
Your Directors would also like to thank the Central and the State
Governments, other Statutory and Regulatory
Authorities, the Companys Bankers, the Medical Profession and
Trade, Vendors & Business Associates and the Members for their continued valuable
support to the Companys operations.
Your Directors place on record their sincere appreciation of the
significant contribution and continued support of the employees at all levels to the
Companys operations during the year.