Dear Members,
Your Directors are pleased to present the 78th Annual Report in the form of
Sixth Integrated Report of our Company along with the Audited Financial Statements for the
year ended 31st March 2025.
Financial Performance
The financial performance of our Company for the year ended 31st March 2025
is summarised below:
Particulars |
Consolidated |
Standalone |
|
FY 2024-25 |
FY 2023-24 |
FY 2024-25 |
FY 2023-24 |
Revenue from Operations |
1,48,477.89 |
1,30,978.48 |
31,563.23 |
25,847.33 |
Other Income |
1,459.04 |
1,264.10 |
1,715.11 |
1,256.60 |
Total Income |
1,49,936.93 |
1,32,242.58 |
33,278.34 |
27,103.93 |
Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation
(EBITDA) |
20,023.13 |
20,836.53 |
2,856.58 |
3,572.64 |
Less: Finance Costs# |
(2,802.28) |
(1,654.72) |
(683.69) |
(440.42) |
Less: Depreciation and Amortisation Expense |
(6,453.73) |
(5,001.32) |
(1,676.21) |
(1,215.06) |
Profit Before Share in Profit of Equity Accounted Investees,
Exceptional Items and Tax |
10,767.12 |
14,180.49 |
496.68 |
1,917.16 |
Share in Profit of Equity Accounted Investees |
296.79 |
88.68 |
- |
- |
Less: Exceptional Items |
(238.85) |
(569.36) |
(163.98) |
(715.60) |
Profit Before Tax (PBT) |
10,825.06 |
13,699.81 |
332.70 |
1,201.56 |
Less: Tax Expense |
(3,068.73) |
(3,774.16) |
(120.60) |
(256.17) |
Profit for the Year Attributable to: |
7,756.33 |
9,925.65 |
212.10 |
945.39 |
Shareholders of the Company |
3,705.68 |
5,624.49 |
212.10 |
945.39 |
Non-Controlling Interest |
4,050.65 |
4,301.16 |
- |
- |
Other Comprehensive Income for the Year Attributable to: |
424.27 |
3,962.47 |
(263.55) |
3,896.30 |
Shareholders of the Company |
105.24 |
3,893.39 |
(263.55) |
3,896.30 |
Non-Controlling Interest |
319.03 |
69.08 |
- |
- |
Total Comprehensive Income for the Year Attributable to: |
8,180.60 |
13,888.12 |
(51.45) |
4,841.69 |
Shareholders of the Company |
3,810.92 |
9,517.88 |
(51.45) |
4,841.69 |
Non-Controlling Interest |
4,369.68 |
4,370.24 |
- |
- |
Opening Balance in Retained Earnings |
12,014.51 |
12,980.04 |
10,113.35 |
9,476.76 |
Profit for the Year Attributable to Shareholders of the Company |
3,705.68 |
5,624.49 |
212.10 |
945.39 |
Gain/(Loss) on Re-measurement of Defined Benefit Plans |
(8.68) |
(1.15) |
(10.86) |
14.21 |
Gain on Sale of Non-Current Investments transferred to Retained
Earnings from equity instruments through OCI |
561.80 |
334.20 |
- |
334.20 |
Less: Stake Dilution in Subsidiary Companies |
(762.33) |
(606.16) |
- |
- |
Amount Available for Appropriation |
15,510.98 |
18,331.42 |
10,314.59 |
10,770.56 |
Transfer to Debenture Redemption Reserve |
(58.53) |
(12.75) |
- |
- |
Transfer to General Reserve |
(3,500.00) |
(5,000.00) |
- |
- |
Transfer to Special Reserve Fund |
(656.71) |
(645.16) |
- |
- |
Dividend Paid on Equity Shares |
(668.12) |
(657.21) |
(668.12) |
(657.21) |
Other movements during the Year |
110.31 |
(1.79) |
- |
- |
Closing Balance in Retained Earnings |
10,737.93 |
12,014.51 |
9,646.47 |
10,113.35 |
of your Company's Birla Opus, saw a host of innovative programmes for all stakeholders,
number of first-time consumer programmes, unique influencer and dealer benefits,
multi-media brand campaigns and exciting new product launches, etc. in FY 2024-25.
Birla Opus made an indelible mark in the first year and with high-capacity share is
preparing itself to become a significant player in the decorative paints sector.
Birla Opus announced commercial production at three plants namely Panipat, Ludhiana and
Cheyyar on 30th April 2024. The Company launched 5 out of its planned 6 plants
and commissioned 1,096 MLPA capacity in FY 2024-25, contributing an unprecedented ~21%
share of organised industry capacity. Birla Opus capacity share is further expected to
rise to ~24% of organised industry in FY 2025-26 with 1,332 MLPA manufacturing capacity
commissioning post the launch of its 6th plant at Kharagpur. Birla Opus is
amongst the few players in India with fully backward integrated plants capable of
producing 376.5 MLPA of Emulsion and 92.6 MLPA of Resins more than sufficient for its own
needs. The Company incurred H 2,288 crore of capital expenditure during FY 2024-25
and cumulatively its capex spends reached ~H 9,352 crore upto FY 2024-25.
On the back of a robust in-house R&D, Birla Opus launched a wide range of 176+
products and 1,250+ SKUs across a) water-based paints, b) enamel paints, c) wood finishes,
d) waterproofing, e) distemper f) designer finishes and textures g) colorants and h)
wallpapers (imported + inhouse). The products cater to various consumer segments -
economy, premium, luxury, super luxury, and institutional clients. The products are being
sold under the main brand of "Birla Opus" and sub brands of "One" for
luxury and super-luxury range, "Calista" for premium range, "Style" fo
r economy range, "Allwood" for wood finishes, "Alldry" for
waterproofing range and "Prime" for institutional range. The entire Birla Opus
product range has differentiated products and offers many industry-first, leading product
features (scuff resistance, 5,000+ washes to name a few). Birla Opus offers industry
leading warranty on its products across the entire range of emulsion, enamel,
waterproofing, distemper and wood finishes etc. These products have been conceptualised
and designed in-house by over 100+ scientists and chemists who have tirelessly worked over
last 3 years at our R&D centre in Taloja near Mumbai. In a market research study
monitored by third party audit firm, 9 out 10 Painters who have used Birla Opus products
said that they will recommend using it.
In a short period of 11 months, Birla Opus has set up Pan India distribution of dealer
network with 137 depots servicing dealers in 6,600+ towns to make its products
available to over 500 million population spread over these towns and adjoining smaller
cities. These depots enable Birla Opus to reach dealers across the country with near 4
hour delivery in depot town and next day delivery in upcountry town and villages. Birla
Opus' tinting machine, used for delivering 2,320+ colour shades including 216 iconic
Indian shades, has great acceptance both due to its smaller size and the proprietary
easy-to-use software and tablet. For simplifying lives of our dealers, Birla Opus has
created an expansive infrastructure to enable the dealer partners to experience world
class services through Dealer Management System (DMS). Birla Opus offers a democratised
loyalty programme known as "Signature Club" inviting all performing dealers to
join the Birla Opus network. The front-end sales team is approaching entire 1,00,000 plus
decorative paints and allied industry dealers, across India both in metro and large towns
and even in mid and small towns to become part of the fast-expanding Birla Opus
distribution network.
Birla Opus promises to delight the consumers, and has taken on itself to transform the
decorative paints retailing industry by building its own experience stores known as Birla
Opus Paint Studio in the metros and franchised mid-sized stores across India called Birla
Opus Paint Gallery. Birla Opus Studios are in 11 major cities (Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bengaluru,
Navi Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Delhi, Lucknow, Surat, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad) while Birla
Opus Paint Gallery has a massive retail footprint across 300+ towns. Both are helping
build the brand salience and drive throughput and premium products sale. Further, Birla
Opus offers the Company led Painting Services under the brand name "Paint Craft"
which guarantees the highest quality of service, delivered by fully trained and certified
professionals. Birla Opus has a consumer app called "My Opus" that helps
discover Opus, sign up for services, buy products online, track a painting project
step-by-step, register warranty and directly communicate with the Company for any consumer
needs. The App also has a visualiser to help customers choose the right paint colour for
their space. This Al-powered visualiser provides a unique 'in-app' experience. Birla Opus
paint cans feature a QR-based system for "Track & Trace", which enables
end-to-end traceability of a paint can from production to application. This ensures no
counterfeits and allows the Company to trace the manufacturing batch in case any,
complaint is received. This is by far the first digital tracking system operationalised in
the sector to assure consumers of product quality and integrity.
Birla Opus brand was launched through an enigmatic and thematic brand campaign
"Make Life Beautiful" in June 2024 with the message of "Duniya Ko Rang
Do!" (Colour the world) paired with a melodious track, which went
on to become one of the most lovable ad campaigns. In the second half, another brand
campaign demonstrating product superiority of Birla Opus products was launched under the
banner "Naye Zamane ka Naya Paint". These brand campaigns have been promoted
through multimedia including diverse multi language TV channels and popular digital media.
The campaign has been supported by onground product expositions, mobile van activations,
outdoor hoardings, wall paintings, dealer boards and point-of-sale merchandise. The
campaigns have been well appreciated across stakeholders and won laurels from the
industry.
Birla Opus has a robust influencer engagement programme to win contractors, painters,
architects and interior designers. The Company used digital technology for access and
establish real time connection with the painter and contractor community across India.
Birla opus has actively engaged with lakhs of contractors and painters registered with the
Company through a digitally savvy user friendly exclusive painter and contractor mobile
App called "Birla Opus ID". Birla Opus plans to open 10 learning centres across
10 cities to upskill lakhs of unorganised workforce of painters and contractors.
Currently, there are 6 learning centres already live in the cities of Bengaluru, Delhi,
Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, & Pune.
Birla Opus has a diverse, young employee team at its six manufacturing plants, head
office, R&D centre and nationwide spread regional offices. In sales and services team,
Birla Opus has inducted amongst the largest field team in paints industry to support all
its key stakeholders - dealers, contractors, painters, architects, and consumers. Birla
Opus team, with a committed mission to become #2 decorative brand in India, is striving
hard, collaborating as a team, moving with agility and remains focused on achieving this
vision while delivering superior value to all its stakeholders.
Birla Pivot, the B2B E-commerce business of our Company is one of the fastest growing
businesses to have achieved an Annualised run rate of K 5,000 crore (as per Q4 FY25)
within 2 years of inception.
In line with the government's vision of creating Digital India and empowering small and
medium businesses, Birla Pivot has created a new-age, high-growth e-commerce platform that
helps businesses with procurement of raw material across various sectors and catalyzes
their growth by streamlining financing and supply chain gaps.
Some of the key highlights for the year:
Evolved our technology stack into a comprehensive B2B E-commerce platform that
is unique and solves the needs of the ecosystem. The platform now powers a
catalog of more than 40,000 SKUs across 300+ brands and OEMs in 35 product categories.
Our proprietary stack Pivot Grid, Pivot Edge, Pivot Vault, and Pivot XP
enables end-to-end B2B commerce across digital procurement, credit-linked transactions,
seamless fulfillment, and marketplace selling.
Birla Pivot's customer base spans top-tier EPC companies, civil contractors,
real estate developers, OEMs, fabricators, dealers, and retailers. With successful
deliveries to over 375 cities across 26 States and Union Territories, the unit has
established a robust network of suppliers and logistics providers who facilitate a very
seamless fulfillment experience.
The significant scale up in revenue is driven by new customer acquisition and
higher penetration amongst existing buyers, driven by a superior OTIF (On-time and In-full
delivery) and seamless experience
Our competitive pricing is driven by demand aggregation across categories and
strategic partnerships with OEMs and regional brands. To further support ecosystem
efficiency, we offer customised, end-use-restricted financing solutions that optimise
working capital for both buyers and sellers.
The business launched Birla Pivot Bathware in Q3FY25, expanding the private
label portfolio beyond Tiles and Plywood. The focus now is to increase the reach and
distribution of these products across both Retail and Projects.
We launched custom credit and financing solutions that are relevant for
different buyer segments and sellers, there by solving their working capital requirements.
In FY26, we will continue to strengthen our foundation by scaling up our
customer base, expanding credit programmes, and accelerating digitisation. We will offer
more personalised solutions for buyers and sellers using data and intelligence &
helping them optimise their overall procurement and project costs.
The aspiration for Birla Pivot is to reach $1 billion revenue in the next two
years, leveraging technology to create smarter and more efficient solutions across the
value chain. This would be the first big milestone in our journey of building the most
trusted B2B E-commerce platform in the country. Given the rapid evolution of small
businesses (70 million+ growing at 13%) who are using the digital ecosystem for business
processes (GST, e-way bill generation, loans and payments), Birla Pivot is well positioned
to be the platform that will drive the shift to B2B E-commerce and digital adoption across
all these sectors.
Industry Context
India's building materials industry is undergoing exponential growth and is projected
to double to $ 200 billion in next five years. With less than 2% digital penetration, this
sector faces many challenges - from fragmented supplier networks, and logistical
bottlenecks to access to credit.
However, this remains one of the sectors that is yet to see meaningful disruption or
adoption of technology. Indian B2B supply chain continues to operate in an inefficient,
fragmented, and localised manner with a lot of involvement from intermediaries. There is a
limited presence of large-scale distributors or digital channels, and sourcing happens
largely offline. There is a huge opportunity to create a platform that can manage end to
end requirements for the customers - right from demand prediction / sourcing to post
delivery.
The aspiration for Birla Pivot is to reach a $1 billion revenue in the next two years,
leveraging technology to create smarter and more efficient solutions across the value
chain. This would be the first big milestone in our journey of building the largest and
the most trusted B2B E-commerce platform in India.
Given the rapid evolution of small businesses (70 million+ growing at 13%) who are
using the digital ecosystem for business processes (GST, e-way bill generation, loans and
payments), Birla Pivot is well positioned to be the platform that will drive the shift to
B2B E-commerce and digital adoption across all these sectors.
Lyocell Project
The Board has approved setting up of 110K TPA capacity of Lyocell, the fastest growing
Cellulosic Fibre at Harihar, Karnataka. The first phase of 55K TPA which is planned to be
executed by mid-2027 is progressing as per plan. Negotiations and ordering of major long
lead items are underway.
Consolidated Financial Statements
In accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 ('the Act'), read with the
Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, as amended ('Listing
Regulations' / 'SEBI Listing Regulations') and Ind AS 110 ? Consolidated Financial
Statements and Ind AS 28 - Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures, the Audited
Consolidated Financial Statements forms integral part of this Integrated Annual Report.
Consolidated Financial Statements include financial performance of the Company's
subsidiaries, Associates and Joint Ventures,
which inter-alia includes UltraTech Cement Limited, Aditya Birla Capital Limited,
Aditya Birla Renewables Limited and other entities as mentioned in Notes to Consolidated
Financial Statements.
Subsidiaries, Associates and Joint Venture Companies
Following were the additions during the year:
Aditya Birla Renewables SPV 3 Limited was incorporated on 21st November 2024 as
a wholly owned subsidiary (WOS) of Aditya Birla Renewables Limited (ABReL).
Aditya Birla Renewables SPV 4 Limited (ABReL SPV 4) was incorporated on 14th
December 2024 as a WOS of ABReL. The status of ABReL SPV 4 changed from WOS to subsidiary
pursuant to transfer of 26% of its shares to Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited on
21st February 2025.
Aditya Birla Renewables SPV 5 Limited was incorporated on 24th January 2025 as a
WOS of ABReL.
There were no changes in the direct Subsidiaries, Associates and Joint Venture
Companies of the Company during the year.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 129(3) of the Act, read with the Companies
(Accounts) Rules, 2014, a report on the performance and financial position of each of the
subsidiaries, associates and joint venture Companies is provided, in the prescribed Form
AOC-1, in Annexure 'A' to this Report.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 136 of the Act, the Audited Standalone and
Consolidated Financial Statements and related information of the Company and audited
accounts of each of its subsidiaries are available on the website of the Company at
https://www.grasim.com/ investors/results-reports-and-presentations
UltraTech Cement Limited and Aditya Birla Capital Limited are the material listed
Subsidiary Companies of the Company. Our Company does not have any material unlisted
Subsidiary. The Audit Committee and the Board reviews the financial statements,
significant transactions of all Subsidiary Companies, and the minutes of unlisted
Subsidiary Companies are placed before the Board.
Our Company has in accordance with the Listing Regulations adopted the Policy for
determining material subsidiaries. The said Policy is available on the Company's website
at https://www.grasim.com/upload/pdf/Grasim Policy Material Subsidiary Cos.pdf
UltraTech Cement Limited ('UltraTech')
UltraTech is the top-tier manufacturer of grey cement and ready-mix concrete (RMC), and
one of the largest manufacturers of white cement in India. UltraTech operates 34
integrated manufacturing units, 34 grinding units, 1 clinkerisation unit and 10 bulk
packaging terminals. It also has 395 RMC plants across 155 cities. UltraTech has one white
cement unit and three wall care putty units. As on 31st March 2025, UltraTech's
grey cement capacity in India stood at 183.4 MTPA, reflecting an addition of 42.6 MTPA
capacity in a year alone. Its robust logistics network includes daily dispatch of 50+
rakes, 13,000+ trucks addressing the requirement of 1,40,000+ channel partners. Following
debottlenecking of capacities in May 2025, UltraTech's overall capacity (India + Overseas)
stood crossed 190 MTPA+.
For FY 2024-25, consolidated grey cement sales volumes grew 17% YoY to 132 MMT, with
capacity utilisation at 78%. RMC sales volumes grew 19% YoY to 13.41 million cubic meter.
The share of green power (WHRS + renewables) in total power consumption was at 32.7%.
Consolidated revenue grew 7% YoY to Rs.75,955 crore. EBITDA declined 2% YoY to Rs.
13,302 crore while PAT declined 14% YoY to H 6,039 crore. Operating cash flow
stood at Rs.10,673 crore.
Aditya Birla Capital Limited ('ABCL')
Key Highlights of ABCL's Consolidated Performance for the Financial Year ended 31st
March 2025 are as under
Consolidated Revenue: Rs.40,651 crore (grew 20% year on year)
Consolidated Net Profit: Rs. 2,981 crore (grew 8% year on year)
Overall, AUM across asset management, life insurance and health insurance at
over Rs.5.11 lakh crore (grew 17% year on year)
Overall lending book [Non-Banking Financial Company ("NBFC") and
Housing Finance] at Rs. 1.57 lakh crore (grew 27% year on year)
Gross premium (across Life and Health Insurance) at Rs. 25,579 crore (grew 22%
year on year)
Share Capital
The Authorised Share Capital of the Company stood at Rs.423.50 crore comprising
of 2,06,25,00,000 Equity Shares of Rs. 2 each and 11,00,000 Redeemable Cumulative
Preference Shares of Rs. 100 each as at 31st March 2025.
Issued Share Capital of the Company stood at Rs. 136.12 crore comprising of
68,05,83,601 Equity Shares of Face Value Rs. 2 each as at 31st March
2025.
Subscribed and paid-up capital of the Company stood at Rs.136.11 crore
comprising of 68,05,80,576 Equity Shares as at 31st March 2025.
Issue of Equity Shares on Rights Basis
During the year, the Board of Directors, in accordance with the letter of offer dated 4th
January 2024 made two calls in respect of outstanding partly-paid up Equity Shares of the
Company.
The details of Rights Issue call's are as under:
First Call: The Board at its meeting held on 22nd May
2024 decided to make the first call of Rs. 453 per partly paid Equity Shares
(comprising H 0.50 towards face value and Rs. 452.50 towards securities premium),
payable during the period from 4th July 2024 to 18th July 2024, both days inclusive; and
Second and Final Call: The Board at its meeting held on 14th November 2024
decided to make Second and Final call of Rs. 906 per partly paid Equity Shares (comprising
Rs. 1 towards face value and H 905 towards securities premium), payable during the period
from 6th January
2025 to 20th January 2025, both days inclusive.
The funds raised by the Company through Rights Issue, have been utilised for the
objects stated in the letter of offer, towards repayment of certain borrowings of the
Company and general corporate purposes.
Employee Stock Option Scheme and Purchase of Treasury Shares
During the year, Grasim Employees' Welfare Trust ('Trust') acquired 3,18,750 equity
shares of the Company from the secondary market. As per Ind AS, purchase of own equity
shares are treated as treasury shares. The Trust constituted in terms of the Company's
Employee Stock Option Schemes ('ESOS') holds 20,65,343 equity shares of the Company as on
31st March 2025 for transfer to the eligible employees under ESOS 2018 and ESOS
2022.
ESOS-2013
During the year, the Stakeholders' Relationship Committee of the Board allotted 30,440
Equity Shares of Rs. 2/- each of the Company to Stock Option Grantees, pursuant to
exercise of the Stock Options and Restricted Stock Units ('RSUs') under ESOS-2013. During
the year, ESOS-2013 has been completed.
ESOS-2018
During the year, 3,62,685 Equity Shares were transferred from the Trust account to the
employees account due to exercise of Stock Options and RSUs by the grantees under
ESOS-2018.
ESOS-2022
During the year, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee ('NRC') of the Board
approved grant of 3,54,938 Stock Options and 98,137 Performance Stock Units ('PSUs') to
the eligible employees, including Managing Director of the Company, under ESOS-2022.
During the year, 11,703 Equity Shares were transferred from the Trust account to the
employees account due to exercise of Stock Options and PSUs by the grantees under
ESOS-2022.
The ESOS-2018 and ESOS-2022 are being administered through the Trust.
The details of Stock Options and RSUs granted pursuant to ESOS-2013 and ESOS-2018 and
Stock Options and PSUs granted pursuant to ESOS-2022, and the other disclosures in
compliance with the provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based
Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021, are available on your Company's
website at https://www.grasim.com/Upload/ PDF/esos-disclosures-2024-25.pdf
A certificate from the Secretarial Auditor with respect to implementation of your
Company's ESOS, will be available at the ensuing AGM for inspection by the Members.
Deposits
During the year, our Company has not accepted or renewed any deposits within the
meaning of Section 73 of the Act, read with the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules,
2014.
Issue of Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDS)
During the year, our Company has issued following NCDs on private placement basis:
Particulars of NCD's |
Face Value |
Amount |
2,00,000 Fully paid, Unsecured, Listed, Rated, Redeemable, Rupee
Denominated, NCDs |
Rs. 1,00,000 each |
Rs. 2,000 crore |
Total |
Rs.2,000 crore |
|
Birla and Mr. Aryaman Vikram Birla, Non-executive Directors of our Company, are liable
to retire by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting ('AGM').
Ms. Ananyashree Birla and Mr. Aryaman Vikram Birla, being eligible, has offered
themselves for re-appointment at the ensuing AGM.
Further, in terms of the Listing Regulations, no listed Company shall appoint or
continue the appointment of a Non-executive Director, who has attained the age of 75
years, unless a special resolution is passed to that effect. Mr. Yazdi Piroj Dandiwala,
Independent Director, will attain the age of 75 (Seventy Five) years in November 2025, as
a Non-executive Director of the Company, resolution seeking his continuation as
Non-executive Director form part of the Notice of the ensuing the AGM.
Brief profile of Ms. Ananyashree Birla, Mr. Aryaman Vikram Birla and Mr. Yazdi Piroj
Dandiwala are provided in the Report on Corporate Governance and Notice of AGM.
During the year, the Board of Directors appointed:
1. Mr. N. Mohan Raj (DIN: 00181969), Independent Director, was reappointed for a second
term of 5 years with effect from 12th July 2024 upto 11th July 2029 (both days inclusive).
2. Mr. Ashvin Dhirajlal Parekh (DIN: 06559989) as an Independent Director, with effect
from 23rd August 2024 upto 22nd August 2029 (both days inclusive).
3. Mr. Haigreve Khaitan (DIN: 00005290) as an Independent Director, with effect from
26th September 2024 upto 25th September 2029 (both days inclusive).
4. Mr. Mukkavilli Jagannath (DIN: 10090437) as a Nonexecutive Director, with effect
from 26th September 2024, liable to retire by rotation.
The Board of Directors at their meeting held on 10th February 2025, based on
recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee and subject to the approval of
Members of the Company, approved the appointment of Mr. Himanshu Kapania (DIN: 03387441)
as an Additional Director, Managing Director ('MD') and Key Managerial Personnel ('KMP')
of the Company, not liable to retire by rotation, with effect from 1st April
2025 upto 30th April 2028.
Cessation of Directors
During the year, Mr. Cyril Shroff and Dr. Thomas M. Connelly, Jr. completed their
second term of five years as an Independent Directors of the Company on 22nd August
2024.
Mr Raj Kumar, Non-executive Director, who was liable to retire by rotation at 77th
AGM of the Company did not offer himself for re-appointment and ceased to be the
Nonexecutive Director of the Company with effect from 20th August 2024.
Mr. Harikrishna Agarwal (DIN: 09288720) took an early retirement and ceased to be the
Managing Director and Key Managerial Personnel of the Company with effect from the close
of business hours of 31st March 2025. There was no other material reason for
his cessation except as stated.
The Board placed on record its sincere appreciation for the valuable contribution and
services rendered by the Directors during their tenure with the Company.
There is no pecuniary or business relationship between the Non-executive Directors and
the Company, except for the sitting fees and commission payable to the Non-executive
Directors, in accordance with the applicable laws and approval of the Members of the
Company.
Key Managerial Personnel
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 2(51) and 203 of the Act, Mr. Harikrishna
Agarwal, Managing Director, Mr. Pavan Kumar Jain, Chief Financial Officer ('CFO') and Mr.
Sailesh Kumar Daga, Company Secretary are the Key Managerial Personnel ('KMP') of the
Company as on 31st March 2025.
Consequent to the early retirement of Mr. Harikrishna Agarwal, the Board of Directors
at its meeting held on 10th February 2025 approved the appointment of Mr.
Himanshu Kapania as MD and KMP of the Company, with effect from 1st April 2025.
Consequent to the superannuation of Mr. Pavan Kumar Jain, CFO and KMP, with effect from
15th August 2025, and based on the recommendations of the Nomination and
Remuneration Committee and the Audit Committee, the Board of Directors, at its meeting
held on 22nd May 2025, approved the appointment of Mr. Hemant Kumar Kadel as
CFO and KMP of the Company, effective from 16th August 2025.
Mr. Sailesh Kumar Daga, the Company Secretary and Compliance Officer of the Company,
has tendered his resignation to pursue opportunities outside the Company with effect from
the close of business hours of 15th July 2025.
Meetings of the Board
The Board of the Company met 6 (six) times during the year to deliberate on various
matters. The meetings were held on 4th April 2024, 22nd May 2024, 9th
August 2024, 27th August 2024, 14th November 2024 and 10th
February 2025. Further details are provided in the Report on Corporate Governance, which
forms an integral part of this Integrated Annual Report.
Statutory Committees of the Board
Audit Committee
As on date of this report, the Audit Committee comprises of Mr. N. Mohan Raj, Chairman,
Mr. V. Chandrasekaran, Mr. Yazdi Piroj Dandiwala and Mr. Himanshu Kapania as its members.
Majority of the members including Chairman of Audit Committee are Independent Directors.
The Chief Financial Officer of your Company is a permanent invitee at the Audit Committee
Meetings.
Nomination and Remuneration Committee
The Nomination and Remuneration Committee ('NRC') comprises of Ms. Anita Ramachandran,
Chairperson, Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Mr. Haigreve Khaitan and Mr. Adesh Kumar Gupta as
its members. Majority of the members including Chairperson of NRC are Independent
Directors.
Corporate Social Responsibility Committee
As on date of this report, the Corporate Social Responsibility ('CSR') Committee
comprises of Smt. Rajashree Birla, Chairperson, Ms. Anita Ramachandran and Mr. Himanshu
Kapania as its members.
Stakeholders' Relationship Committee
As on date of this report, the Stakeholders' Relationship Committee ('SRC') comprises
of Ms. Anita Ramachandran, Chairperson, Mr. Yazdi Piroj Dandiwala and Mr. Himanshu Kapania
as its members. Majority of the members including Chairperson of SRC are Independent
Directors.
Risk Management and Sustainability Committee
As on date of this report, the Risk Management and Sustainability Committee ('RMSC')
comprises of Mr. N. Mohan Raj, Chairman, Mr. Ashvin Parekh, Mr. V. Chandrasekaran, Mr.
Himanshu Kapania, Mr. Kapil Agrawal and Mr. Jayant V. Dhobley as its members.
The Chief Financial Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer of our Company are
permanent invitees at the RMSC Meetings.
All the recommendations made by the above Committees, during the year, were accepted by
the Board of the Company.
Further details relating to the above Committees are provided in the Report on
Corporate Governance, which forms an integral part of this Integrated Annual Report.
Independent Directors
Our Company has received declarations from all the Independent Directors of the
Company, confirming that:
a) they meet the criteria of independence as prescribed under Section 149(6) of the Act
and Regulation 16(1) (b) of the Listing Regulations;
b) they are not aware of any circumstance or situation which exists or may be
reasonably anticipated, that could impair or impact their ability to discharge their
duties with an objective of independent judgement and without any external influence; and
c) they have registered their names in the Independent Directors Databank.
Our Company's Board is of the opinion that the Independent Directors possess requisite
qualifications, experience and expertise in Corporate Governance, Legal and Compliance,
Financial Literacy, General Management, Human Resource Development, Industry Knowledge,
Technology, Digitisation and Innovation, Marketing, Risk Management, Strategic Expertise
and Sustainability and they hold highest standards of integrity.
Formal Annual Evaluation
Pursuant to the provisions of the Act and the Listing Regulations, the Board has
carried out an annual evaluation of its own performance, its Committees, Independent
Directors, Non-executive Directors, Executive Director and the Chairman of the Board.
The NRC of the Board has laid down the manner in which annual evaluation of the
performance of the Board, its Committees and Individual Directors has to be made. It
includes circulation of evaluation forms separately for evaluation of the Board and its
Committees, Independent Directors/Non-executive Directors/Executive Director and the
Chairman of the Company.
The performance of Non-independent Directors, the Board, as a whole, and the Committees
of the Board has been evaluated by Independent Directors in a separate meeting. At the
same meeting, the Independent Directors
also evaluated the performance of the Chairman of the Company, after taking into
account the views of Executive Director and Non-executive Directors. Evaluation as done by
the Independent Directors was submitted to the NRC and subsequently to the Board.
Thereafter, the Board at its meeting discussed the performance of the Board, as a
whole, its Committees and Individual Directors. The Board expressed satisfaction on the
overall functioning of the Board and its Committees. The Board was also satisfied with the
contribution of the Directors, in their respective capacities, which reflected the overall
engagement of the Individual Directors.
The new Director inducted on the Company's Board attends an orientation programme. The
details of the programme for familiarisation of Independent Directors are provided in the
Report on Corporate Governance, which forms an integral part of this Integrated Annual
Report and is also available on the Company's website at https://www.
grasim.com/Upload/PDF/familiarisation-programme- independent-directors.pdf.
Directors' Responsibility Statement
The audited accounts for the year are in conformity with the requirements of the Act
and the Accounting Standards. The financial statements reflect fairly the form and
substance of transactions carried out during the year and reasonably present your
Company's financial condition and results of operations.
Pursuant to Section 134(5) of the Act, the Board of Directors, to the best of its
knowledge and ability, confirms that:
a) in the preparation of the Annual Accounts, the applicable accounting standards have
been followed along with proper explanation relating to material departures, if any;
b) the accounting policies selected have been applied consistently, and judgements and
estimates are made that are reasonable and prudent, so as to give a true and fair view of
the state of affairs of the Company as at 31st March 2025, and of the profit of the
Company for the year ended on that date;
a) proper and sufficient care have been taken for the maintenance of adequate
accounting records, in accordance with the provisions of the Act, for safeguarding the
assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities;
d) annual accounts have been prepared on a 'going concern' basis;
e) the Directors have laid down proper internal financial controls, and that such
internal financial controls are adequate and were operating effectively; and
f) the Directors have devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions
of all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating effectively.
Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption and Foreign Exchange Earnings and Outgo
The information on Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption and Foreign Exchange
Earnings and Outgo stipulated under Section 134(3)(m) of the Act, read with the Companies
(Accounts) Rules, 2014, is given in Annexure 'C' to this Report.
Integrated Annual Report
The Company is publishing its sixth Integrated Annual Report for the FY 2024-25. This
report is prepared in alignment with the Integrated Reporting Framework laid down by the
International Integrated Reporting Council and aims at presenting the value creation
approach for our stakeholders.
Auditors and Audit Reports
Statutory Auditors
M/s. B S R & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (Registration No. 101248W/W-100022) and
M/s. KKC & Associates LLP, Chartered Accountants (Registration No. 105146W/ W100621),
were appointed as Joint Statutory Auditors of the Company for a term of 5 (five)
consecutive years, to hold office till the conclusion of the 79th AGM and 80th
AGM of the Company, respectively.
The observations made by the Joint Statutory Auditors on the Financial Statements
(Standalone and Consolidated) of the Company, in their Report for the financial year ended
31st March 2025, read with the Notes therein, are self-explanatory and,
therefore, do not call for any further explanation or comments from the Board of Directors
under Section 134(3)(f) of the Act. The Auditors' Report does not contain any
qualification, reservation, disclaimer or adverse remark.
During the year, M/s. Singhi & Co., Chartered Accountants (Firm Registration Number
302049E) has tendered their
resignation as Branch Auditor of the Company vide their letter dated 14th
November 2024. Consequent to the resignation of Branch Auditor, the Company's Statutory
Auditors has carried out the audit of the subject Branch.
Cost Auditor
Our Company is required to prepare and maintain the cost accounts and cost records
pursuant to Section 148(1) of the Act, read with rules made thereunder.
Based on the recommendation of the Audit Committee, the Board appointed M/s. D. C. Dave
& Co., Cost Accountants, Mumbai (Registration No. 000611), as the Cost Auditors to
conduct the cost audit of the Company for FY 2025-26 at a remuneration of H 28 lakh
(Rupees twenty eight lakh only) plus applicable taxes and reimbursement of out-ofpocket
expenses.
The Company has received the consent from M/s. D. C. Dave & Co., Cost Accountants,
to act as the Cost Auditor of our Company for FY 2025-26, along with the certificate
confirming their eligibility.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 148(1) of the Act and Rule 14 of the
Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014, the remuneration payable to the Cost Auditor
is required to be ratified by the Members of the Company. Accordingly, an Ordinary
Resolution, for ratification of remuneration payable to the Cost Auditor for FY 2025-26,
forms part of the Notice of the ensuing AGM.
Secretarial Auditor
The Securities and Exchange Board of India, vide its Notification no.
SEBI/LAD-NRO/GN/2024/218 dated 12th December 2024, introduced significant
amendments to the Listing Regulations.
Pursuant to the amended Regulation 24A of the Listing Regulations Listed Companies are
now mandated to appoint a Secretarial Auditor for a term of 5 (Five) years, subject to the
approval of the Members of the Company, to conduct Secretarial Audit and provide a
Secretarial Compliance Report, effective from 1st April 2025.
In compliance with this mandate, the Board of Directors, upon the recommendation of the
Audit Committee, proposes the appointment of M/s. Makarand M. Joshi & Co., Company
Secretaries (Firm Registration Number - P2009MH007000), as the Secretarial Auditor (a peer
reviewed firm) to hold office for a first term of five consecutive years from FY 2025-26
till FY 2029-30 of the Company, to the shareholders for their approval.
They have confirmed their eligibility and qualification required under the Act for
holding the office, as Secretarial Auditor of the Company.
Accordingly, an Ordinary Resolution, proposing the appointment of M/s. Makarand M.
Joshi & Co., Company Secretaries (Firm Registration Number - P2009MH007000), forms
part of the Notice of the 78th AGM of the Company.
The Secretarial Audit Report, issued by M/s. BNP & Associates, Company Secretaries,
Mumbai, for the FY 202425, is given in Annexure 'D' to this Report. The Secretarial
Audit Report does not contain any qualification, reservation, disclaimer or adverse
remark. The Secretarial Compliance Report for the financial year ended 31st
March 2025, in relation to compliance of all applicable SEBI Regulations / circulars /
guidelines issued thereunder, pursuant to the requirement of Regulation 24A of the Listing
Regulations, is available on the website of the Company at https://www.
grasim.com/Upload/PDF/intimation-annual-secretarial- compliance-report.pdf
Secretarial Standards
During the year, our Company is in compliance with the applicable Secretarial Standards
specified by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India.
Reporting of Frauds by Auditors
During the year, in the course of audit, auditors did not come across any instances of
fraud, except a fraud relating to inventory identified by the Management aggregating to H
4.50 crore involving erstwhile employee, transporter and warehouse staff, for which
the Management has taken the appropriate steps.
A report under sub-section (12) of Section 143 of the Companies Act, 2013 has been
filed by one of the joint auditors of the Company in Form ADT-4 as prescribed under rule
13 of the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014 with the Central Government.
Disclosures
Contracts and Arrangements with Related Parties
During the year, all contracts / arrangements / transactions entered into by the
Company with Related Parties were on arm's length basis and in the ordinary course of
business. There are no material transactions with any Related Party as defined under
Section 188 of the Act, read with the Companies (Meetings of Board and its Powers) Rules,
2014.
In line with the requirements of the Act and amendment to the Listing Regulations, all
Related Party Transactions have been approved by the Audit Committee and reviewed by it
on a periodic basis. Our Company has formulated a 'Policy on Related Party
Transactions', which is also available on the Company's website at https://www.grasim.com/
upload/pdf/Grasim policy on RPT.pdf.The Policy intends to ensure that proper reporting,
approval and disclosure processes are in place for all transactions between the Company
and Related Parties.
The details of contracts and arrangements with Related Parties of the Company for the
financial year ended 31st March 2025, are given in Notes to the Standalone
Financial Statements, forming part of this Integrated Annual Report.
Further, at the last AGM of the Company, the Members approved the material Related
Party Transaction(s) with i) Hindalco Industries Limited, a promoter group Company for an
aggregate value of upto H 1,250 crore; and ii) AV Group NB Inc, Canada ('AVNB'),
Joint Venture of the Company for an aggregate value of upto H 1,108 crore for the
financial year 2024-25.
The Board at its meeting held on 22nd May 2025, subject to approval of
shareholders of the Company has approved entering into material Related Party
Transaction(s) with i) Hindalco Industries Limited, a promoter group Company for an
aggregate value of up to H 2,535 crore; and ii) AV Group NB Inc, Canada ('AVNB'),
Joint Venture of the Company for an aggregate value of up to H 1,300 for the FY
2025-26.
Vigil Mechanism / Whistle-Blower Policy
Our Company has established a mechanism for directors and employees to report instances
and concerns about unethical behaviour, actual or suspected fraud, or violation of the
Company's Code of Conduct. It also provides adequate safeguards against the victimisation
of employees, who avail the mechanism and allows direct access to the Chairman of the
Audit Committee in exceptional cases. During the year, no person was denied access to the
Audit Committee.
The details of the Vigil Mechanism are also provided in the Report on Corporate
Governance, which forms an integral part of this Integrated Annual Report and the Vigil
Mechanism / Whistle-Blower Policy is available on the website of the Company at
https://www.grasim.com/ Upload/PDF/whistle-blower-policy.pdf
Corporate Social Responsibility
In terms of the provisions of Section 135 of the Act and Rules made thereunder, the
Board has a Corporate Social
Responsibility ('CSR') Committee, which is chaired by Smt. Rajashree Birla. The other
Members of the Committee as on date of this report are Ms. Anita Ramachandran, Independent
Director and Mr. Himanshu Kapania, Managing Director. Dr. Pragnya Ram, Group Executive
President - CSR is a permanent invitee to the Committee. The Corporate Social
Responsibility Policy ('CSR Policy'), indicating the activities undertaken by the Company,
is available on your Company's website at https://www.grasim.com/Upload/
PDF/grasim-csr-policy.pdf
Our Company is a caring corporate citizen and lays significant emphasis on development
of the host communities around which it operates. Our Company, with this intent, has
identified several projects relating to Social Empowerment and Welfare, Rural Development,
Sustainable Livelihood, Health Care and Education, during the year, and initiated various
activities in neighbouring villages around its plant locations.
During the year, the Company has spent Rs. 88.42 crore, of which Rs. 67.80
crore was spent towards obligatory CSR of the Company and an amount of Rs. 20.62
crore was voluntarily spent for CSR activities.
The initiatives undertaken by the Company on CSR activities, during the year, are given
in Annexure 'E' to this Report, in the format prescribed in the Companies
(Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014, as amended.
Risk Management and Sustainability
Our Company remains firmly committed to a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to
risk management and sustainability, recognising them as essential enablers for long-term
value creation and achievement of organisational objectives. In an increasingly dynamic
business environment, our robust risk management framework facilitates the identification,
assessment, mitigation, and continuous monitoring of diverse risks across the
organisation. This approach not only safeguards our interests but also allows us to
proactively seize emerging opportunities.
The Board-level Risk Management and Sustainability Committee (RMSC) plays a pivotal
role in embedding risk management into the core of strategic and operational
decision-making. The Committee is entrusted with framing relevant policies, monitoring
their implementation, and reviewing the Company's risk and sustainability performance to
ensure alignment with our long-term vision. Our Risk Management Policy is available on the
Company's website at https://www.grasim.com/Upload/PDF/risk- management-policy.pdf serves
as the cornerstone for guiding these efforts.
We have systematically identified and assessed a wide range of risk areas including
external, strategic, financial, operational, sustainability, cyber security, compliance,
and knowledge-based risks. Our risk-informed decision-making culture empowers us to take
timely and well-considered actions, enabling the Company to adapt quickly to change while
ensuring business continuity and stakeholder confidence. Tailored mitigation strategies
have been implemented for each risk category to strengthen our operational resilience.
The Management Discussion & Analysis section of this Report outlines the key risks
identified and the corresponding mitigation plans. During the financial year, the RMSC met
three times to review the effectiveness of our risk management and sustainability
practices. The Board remains confident in the Company's ability to navigate uncertainties,
achieve strategic objectives, and generate sustainable value. Importantly, there are no
risks currently identified that, in the opinion of the Board, pose a threat to the
Company's continued existence.
Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report
As per Regulation 34(2)(f) of the Listing Regulations, a separate section on Business
Responsibility and Sustainability Report, describing the initiatives taken by the Company
from environmental, social and governance perspective, forms an integral part of this
Integrated Annual Report.
Annual Return
Pursuant to Sections 92 and 134 of the Act, and the Rules made thereunder, the Annual
Return of your Company as on 31st March 2025 is available on the Company's
website at https://www.grasim.com/Upload/PDF/form-mgt-7- annual-return-fy-2024-2025.pdf
Internal Controls
Our Company has in place adequate internal control systems (including internal
financial control system) commensurate with the size and complexity of its operations.
Internal control systems comprising of policies and procedures are designed to ensure
sound management of the Company's operations, safe keeping of its assets, optimal
utilisation of resources, reliability of its financial information and compliance. Systems
and procedures are periodically reviewed to keep pace with the growing size and complexity
of the Company's operations. During the year, no material or serious observation has been
received from the Joint Statutory Auditors of your Company, citing inefficiency or
inadequacy of such controls.
Remuneration Policy
The Company's remuneration policy is directed towards rewarding the performance based
on review of achievements. The remuneration policy is in consonance with the existing
industry practice. There has been no change in the policy during the year.
The Remuneration Policy of the Company, as formulated by the NRC of the Board is given
in Annexure 'F' to this Report and is also available on the Company's website at
https://www.grasim.com/upload/pdf/ABG-executive- remuneration-philosophv-policy.pdf
Research and Development (R&D)
The R&D projects undertaken by the Company focus on developing and commercialising
differentiated premium / new products, improving our competitive cost position, product
quality and environmental sustainability. To support these goals, the Company develops a
pipeline of projects to address near and mid-term needs, as well as the exploration of
future opportunities.
Business wise details are described hereunder:
Cellulosic Staple Fibre (CSF)
The Cellulosic Staple Fibre (CSF) business continues to strengthen its position as one
of the world's leading producers of Manmade Cellulose Fibres (MMCF), built on a foundation
of sustainability, innovation, and cost competitiveness.
Our unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility was once again recognised by
Canopy, a globally respected NGO. We retained our industry-leading Dark Green Shirt
rating, reaffirming our leadership in sustainable raw material sourcing and processing.
A key milestone this year was the commercial production of Saxcell fibre, a
breakthrough in chemical recycling derived from pre-consumer textile waste. Alongside Liva
Reviva recycled viscose fibres, this achievement positions us as the only MMCF
manufacturer globally offering both recycled viscose and Lyocell fibres at commercial
scale, reinforcing our leadership in the circular economy.
In our pursuit of novel Value-Added Products (VAPs), we achieved the first successful
commercial production run of Liva Intellicolour fibre at our Nagda facility. The product
is now undergoing validation through downstream customer testing. Our innovation pipeline
also progressed on the flame- retardant front, with a successful large-scale production
run of phosphate-based FR fibres, which have been distributed
to potential customers. Additionally, development of silicate- based FR fibres advanced
with successful pilot trials.
In our Excel fibre portfolio, we demonstrated a new green chemistry process at pilot
scale for producing Non-Fibleration / Low-Fibleration Excel. Commercial implementation of
this chemistry process is nearing completion, with initial production runs already
underway. We also expanded our capability to produce short-cut Excel fibres with ultra-low
cut lengths, enabled by the development of customised fibre-cutting
hardwarebroadening the application potential of our fibres. Simultaneously, we
continued exploring alternative sustainable feedstocks for viscose and Lyocell production,
which hold long-term promise for improving pulp supply security.
On the quality enhancement front, our process development team introduced a new
additive in the Excel manufacturing process, which has significantly improved fibre
abrasion resistance without compromising other key propertiesresulting in an overall
uplift in performance.
We are also leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to
transform our manufacturing operations. Notably, computer vision-enabled AIML sensors have
been successfully deployed to detect spinning faults in real time. This innovation has
improved process stability post-shutdown and is now being replicated across other viscose
and Excel lines. We also validated several soft sensors and real-time optimisers through
proof-of- concept trials, particularly to enhance energy efficiency in spin bath
evaporation and improve control of the viscose slurry process. These interventions are
driving higher energy efficiency, process consistency, and ultimately, superior fibre
quality.
A significant development on the raw material front was the commissioning of a pulp
pilot plant at Harihar, focused on testing cost-effective and sustainable pulp
alternatives derived from agri-residues, textile waste, veneer waste, and more. The
facility also enables optimisation of pulping parameters and greener chemical processes.
Complementing this, we commissioned a pulp treatment station to enhance pulp reactivity
and solubilityfurther strengthening our backward integration capabilities.
To ensure ongoing excellence, we institutionalised a fibre benchmarking programme
across all manufacturing sites. By systematically comparing our fibre properties with
global standards and competitors, we are generating actionable insights to maintain and
enhance our competitive edge.
As we look ahead, the CSF business remains steadfast in its mission to drive
sustainable innovation, operational excellence, and market leadership. With a focus on
advanced fibre technologies, resource efficiency, and value creation, we are
well-positioned to lead the transformation of the textile industry toward a greener and
more circular future.
Cellulosic Fashion Yarn (CFY)
The Fashion Yarn (Cellulosic Filament Yarn - CFY) business is driving innovation with
sustainable cellulosic filament yarn. This is based on indigenously developed closed-loop
technology, enhanced with European inputs. A pilot plant is being planned following a
successful lab-scale proof of concept.
The business has launched high-DPF and microfilament products to leverage emerging
fashion trends. Additionally, a molecular tracer has been integrated into the yarn during
production. This enables full traceability across the textile value chain, ensuring
authenticity, transparency, and sustainability.
Chemicals
The Research and Development ('R&D') efforts are focusing on cost optimisation,
developing new products after understanding customers latent needs and further enhancing
our chlorine derivative portfolio.
We are focused on advancing water treatment technologies through our R&D Centre. We
are developing safer, more sustainable solutions for potable water, including
demonstrating the use of HSBP technology for both swimming pools and drinking water
sanitation. In the textile industry, we are providing effective solutions for treating
colored effluent with new Vytal formulations. Additionally, we offered cost-effective
alternatives for treating COD, phosphate, and ammoniacal nitrogen in Effluent Treatment
Plants (ETPs) and Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs). Our new Vytal range for the
sugar industry focuses on improving color removal efficiency during processing, while for
rubber processing, we are offering more sustainable solutions for latex recovery.
R&D Team at Vilayat site worked closely with customers from artificial leather and
flexible garden pipes, PVC pipes and sustainable formulations and commercialised under
'Twist' brand. New green sustainable product developed which is effective as
co-plasticiser by reducing the load of phthalate-based plasticiser by partial replacement.
Customer specific variants are developed of long chain chlorinated paraffins successfully
at kilo lab scale for PVC compounding.
Our R&D which is recognised by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research
(DSIR) and is executing collaborative project with many renowned institutes. The Company
received NSF / ANSI, Halal and Kosher certifications for its operating Units and adding to
new sites for new product range, K-REACH was received for the products to support
international business to explore new markets which is implemented from January 2025 in
South Korea. R&D Centre published research articles / papers and presentations around
Water Treatment and Cleaning solutions at various forums like CII and Everything About
Water Journal and International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.
Our Company's R&D Centre has also collaborated with the Aditya Birla Science and
Technology Company Private Limited ('ABSTCPL') and the academia in the scientific and
technical forums. R&D Centre had worked with the industry to develop multiple improved
technology of phosphoric acid from which few are implemented, and the site is upgraded to
reap the benefits on other to improve product quality, reduce cost and enhancing safety,
technology improvement of mono chloro acetic acid. The Company is also developing
specialty blends (plastics, water treatment, FMCG etc.), new formulations for paints and
chemicals for agrochemical applications.
Various enhancements in production process have also been undertaken by the team to
enhance its efficacy and quality of deliverables. We observed an improvement in plant
capacity in PAC and ACH liquid production for improved process.
Specialty Chemicals (Epoxy Polymers & Curing Agents)
Our Research and Development (R&D) team is leading and driving the Sustainability
portfolio through New Product Development in the area of Bio-based products, waterless,
solvent free, green processes and chemistries, as well as innovation in the area of
Recyclability & Circularity of Materials. The team has successfully developed several
CMR free formulations, contributing to safe products for human health and environment. The
teams are also actively synthesising novel molecules and in developing products and
applications that drive growth of specialty segment for the business. Additionally, the
team has expanded their existing epoxy portfolio by integrating new products and offerings
in the fields of polyamide and polyester applications.
R&D team is working with leading Universities, Institutes and Global experts in
building the innovation footprint and speeding up the research to market phase.
To highlight one of the few developments, they have successfully developed a Recyclable
Composite Hydrogen Cylinder which is a breakthrough innovation for the automotive segment.
They are deeply engaged in development of various bio-based products and has developed
polyamide hardeners which are based on biomaterials like fatty acids and dimer acids
derived from plant sources.
R&D team is involved in application development in epoxy system solutions for
composite segment, wind segment, pipes, LPG, CNG and H2 storage tanks, e-mobility,
products for power generation, transmission and distribution and auto-electronics, powder
coating segment, adhesives and construction segment, water soluble coating solution for
can coating applications, developing products for floor coating and marble coating.
Textiles
The Textiles business is involved in driving innovation, servicing new customers with
focus on sustainability and customers emerging needs, and constantly improving its
processes.
This year, we have launched:
Silk Touch Fabric- This fabric is crafted entirely from cellulosic fibres such as
linen and rayon, offering a silklike feel with high lustre and exquisite softness against
the skin. It easily breaks down at the end of its lifecycle without causing harm to the
environment. This sustainable approach reflects our strong commitment to ethical and
responsible manufacturing.
Circular Solutions- Although Linen is considered as an eco-friendly fabric, we've
stretched the limits further by developing fabrics with recycled Linen from pre-consumer
linen waste. Increasing focus on circular economy and demand of recycled fabrics is
expected to fuel the demand of this product in coming days. We are in the process of
creating a closed-loop system where our resources can be used and recycled in a continuous
cycle, minimising waste and environmental impact. Recycled linen helps in reducing waste
and conserving natural resources, making it a key value driver in our journey toward a
more sustainable and future-ready textile business.
Our Company is continuously working in collaboration with ABSTCPL, TRADC (Textile
Research & Application Development Centre), ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural
research), and global partners, e.g., CELC, Wool Mark, Sanitised, Asahi-Kasei and other
specialty fibres and chemical suppliers to explore and develop innovative yarns and
fabrics.
Our broad R&D activities are aimed at addressing the present and future needs of
the Textile business.
Insulators
During the year our R&D efforts were focused mainly on new customer requirements,
design optimisation for cost optimisation and performance improvement, and new product
developments for new markets. Developmental actions were taken in the following areas:
Development of new products of porcelain discs for new markets.
Design changes in existing substation products in porcelain for new markets and
cost optimisation.
Development of new colours of glaze for porcelain insulators as per customer
requirement.
Improvement in the existing glaze to enhance high temperature stability.
New products development in composite long rod insulators for HVDC and export
markets.
Particulars of Employees
Disclosures pertaining to remuneration and other details as required under Section
197(12) of the Act, read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of
Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, are given in Annexure 'G' to this Report.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rules 5(2)
and 5(3) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules,
2014, the names and other particulars of employees drawing remuneration in excess of the
limits, set out in the aforesaid rules, forms part of this Report. In line with the
provisions of Section 136(1) of the Act, the Report and Accounts, as set out therein, are
being sent to all the Members of the Company, excluding the aforesaid information about
the employees. Any Member, who is interested in obtaining these particulars about
employees, may write to the Company Secretary at grasim.secretarial@adityabirla.com.
Policy on Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
Our Company has zero tolerance for sexual harassment at workplace. Our Company has
adopted a Policy on Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment at
Workplace in line with the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 ('POSH Act'), and the Rules framed
thereunder. All employees (permanent, contractual, temporary and trainees) are covered
under this policy.
World Safety Organisation's OHSE Silver Award (2024), 3 Star rating in the
manufacturing sector - Harihar Polyfibres & Grasilene division
MATEXIL Export Award - Outstanding Export performance for the Year 2023-24
MATEXIL Export Award - Best Export Performance Continuous Viscose Yarn 2023-24
Chemicals:
Golden Peacock Award 2024 - Occupational Health and Safety - Vilayat Unit
Golden Peacock National Training Award 2025 - Veraval Unit
Digital Excellence in Logistics at the CII - Supply Chain and Logistics
Excellence Awards - 2024
Outstanding Performance in Supply Chain & Logistics across the
"Chemical Industries" at the CII - Supply Chain and Logistics Excellence Awards
- 2024.
IGMC Award & Net Zero "Torch Bearer" by International Research
Institute for Manufacturing - Rehla Unit
Energy Awards in Chlor - Alkali Sector: Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Government
of India from Honourable VicePresident of India - Rehla Unit
Gold Medal for India Green Manufacturing Challenge - GCA- Rehla Unit
IRIM Golden Award in the Field of Environment, Energy saving & environmental
protection organised by the Odisha government - Ganjam Unit
Winner of Best National Thermal Power for generation excellence and sustainable
operation by CEE in September 2024 GCA - Veraval Unit
JEC Composites Innovation Awards 2025 (Design, Furniture & Home, Sports,
Leisure & Recreation) - Advanced Materials Team
The FICCI Global Symposium on Resource Efficiency & Circular Economy for
pioneering eco-friendly initiatives 2025 -Veraval Unit
Domestic Textiles:
CII - ITC Sustainability Awards for Domain Excellence in CSR - Jaya Shree
Gold- Retail Marketing Campaign of the Year - ASSOCHAM - Branding &
Marketing Excellence Awards 2025
Gold-Regional Marketing Campaign and Retail & E-commerce - BW Businessworld
2024
Most Trusted Brands of India 2025 - Marksmen Daily
Birla Opus:
Gold: Best Use of PR for a Challenger Brand- Afaqs Communicon
Gold: Best Integrated Campaign, Media Innovation (Television), Media Innovation
(Branded Content), Media Innovation (Sports Marketing - Cricket) at Emvies 2025
Update on Material Orders Passed by the Regulators
The Competition Commission of India ('CCI') had passed an order under Section 4
of the Competition Act, 2002, dated 16th March 2020, imposing a penalty of H 301.61 crore.
The Company had filed an appeal against the order before the Hon'ble National Company Law
Appellate Tribunal ('NCLAT'), and has obtained a stay by depositing H 30.16 crore with
NCLAT by way of fixed deposit. While the matter is pending before the NCLAT, CCI has
passed another order dated 3rd June 2021, and levied a penalty of H 3.49 crore on the
Company (@ H 1 lakh per day for a period of 349 days and continuing thereafter) for
noncompliance with its order passed on 16th March 2020. The Company has filed a writ
petition with the Hon'ble Delhi High Court, and the Hon'ble Delhi High Court has stayed
the operation of the CCI order on 3rd June 2021.
The CCI has passed another order dated 6th August 2021, under Section 4 of the
Competition Act, 2002. However, because of the penalty of H 301.61 crore has already been
imposed on the Company in a previous order for the period overlapped partly; the CCI
deemed it appropriate not to impose any further monetary penalty on the Company. The
Company filed an appeal before the Hon'ble NCLAT.
The Company, believes that the above orders are not tenable in law. Accordingly,
no provision has been made in the books of account on account of these matters.
General
Your Directors state that no disclosure or reporting is required in respect of the
following items as there were no transactions on these matters during the year:
1. No material changes and commitments affected the financial position of the Company
between the end of the financial year and the date of this Report;
2. Issue of equity shares with differential rights as to dividend, voting or otherwise;
3. Issue of shares (including sweat equity shares) to employees of the Company under
any Scheme save and except ESOS referred to in this Report;
4. The Managing Director of the Company does not receive any remuneration or commission
from any of its subsidiaries;
5. There were no revisions in the financial statement(s);
6. There has been no change in the nature of business of the Company;
7. No significant or material orders were passed by the Regulators or Courts or
Tribunals which impact the going concern status and the Company's operations in the
future. The update on the status of material orders passed by the Regulators or Hon'ble
Court or Hon'ble Tribunals is provided in this Report;
8. There were no proceedings initiated under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016;
9. There was no instance of one-time settlement with any Bank or Financial Institution;
and
10. There was no failure to implement any Corporate Action.
Acknowledgement
Your Directors express their deep sense of gratitude to the shareholders, banks,
financial institutions, stakeholders, business associates, Central and State Governments
for their co-operation and support, and look forward to their continued support in future.
Your Directors very warmly thank all our employees for their contribution to the
Company's performance. We applaud them for their superior levels of competence, dedication
and commitment to our Company.
|
For and on behalf of the Board |
|
Kumar Mangalam Birla |
|
Chairman |
Mumbai, 22nd May 2025 |
DIN:00012813 |