Dear Members,
Your directors have the pleasure in presenting the 28th Annual
Report on the business and operations of your Company together with the Standalone and
Consolidated Audited Financial Statement and the Auditors' Report of your Company for
the Financial year ended March 31, 2024.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY AND HIGHLIGHTS:
The Company's financial performance for the year under review is given
hereunder:
(? in Lakhs)
Particulars
|
Standalone
|
Consolidated
|
FY 2023-24
|
FY 2022-23
|
FY 2023-24
|
FY 2022-23
|
Revenue from Operations (Net) |
7861.35 |
6534.09 |
7877.59 |
6540.48 |
Other Income |
262.08 |
170.68 |
229.22 |
142.97 |
Total Revenue |
8123.43 |
6704.77 |
8106.81 |
6683.45 |
Depreciation and Amortization |
1343.36 |
1045.58 |
1344.42 |
1046.20 |
Total Expenses (including
Depreciation and Amortization) |
7187.46 |
5843.92 |
7542.44 |
6040.90 |
Profit/ (Loss) Before Tax |
935.97 |
860.85 |
564.37 |
642.55 |
Tax Expenses: |
|
|
|
|
1. Current Tax |
328.44 |
269.72 |
328.44 |
269.72 |
2. Deferred Tax |
(104.35) |
(11.80) |
(111.26) |
(11.80) |
Net Profit/ (Loss) After Tax |
697.14 |
579.82 |
332.45 |
361.52 |
Earning per share Basic
Diluted |
6.17
6.17 |
5.53
5.48 |
3.17
3.17 |
3.81
3.78 |
During the year under review, the Company has
achieved a gross turnover of ? 8,123.43 lakhs in comparison to previous year's
turnover which was ? 6,704.77 lakhs. It represented an increase of 17.46 % over the
previous year. The Profit after tax stood at ?679.14 lakhs as against ?579.82 lakhs in
previous year. Key aspects of financial performance of your Company for the Current
Financial year 2023-24 along with the Previous Financial year 2022-23 are tabulated in the
Financial Results above.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS OF THE COMPANY:
The Company has incorporated a Wholly Owned Subsidiary Company named "SoftTech
Engineers Digital Limited." in UK on 14th November, 2023 with the object of
International Market Penetration of SoftTech's products established in India.
SoftTech Engineers Limited and CDCi sign an agreement to offer software products and
services under
CIVIT Platform to Malaysian AEC industry.
The Company Announces allotment of 20,00,000 (Twenty Lakhs) Equity Shares pursuant to
exercise of fully convertible warrants ("Warrants/ Convertible Warrants")
allotted on preferential basis and Allotment of 6,63,120 (Six Lakhs Sixty Three Thousand
One Hundred Twenty) Equity Shares pursuant to exercise of Unsecured Compulsorily
Convertible Debentures ("CCDs") allotted on preferential basis.
DIVIDEND:
Considering the situation and in order to conserve the resources, the Board of
Directors do not
recommend dividend for the Financial Year 2023-24.
TRANSFER OF UNCLAIMED DIVIDEND TO INVESTOR EDUCATION AND PROTECTION FUND:
Since no unclaimed dividend amount is pending with the Company for seven
consecutive years or more, no amount is required to be transferred to the Investor
Education and Protection Fund.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES IN TERMS OF SECTION 134 (3) (J) OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2013:
No amount was transferred to the reserves during the Financial Year
ended on March 31, 2024.
LISTING OF SECURITIES ON STOCK EXCHANGES:
The shares of the Company are listed on main board of the National Stock Exchange
of India Limited and BSE Limited. Further, the Company is registered with both NSDL &
CDSL.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSIONS & ANALYSIS REPORT:
In accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI regulations,
the Management
Discussion and Analysis report is given as Annexure A' to this
report.
ANNUAL RETURN:
In accordance with the Companies Act, 2013, the annual return in the prescribed
format is available at https://softtech-engr.com/wp-content/uploads/Form-MGT-7_2022-23-1.pdf
Or https://softtechglobal.com/investors/
DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL (KMP):
Changes in Composition of the Board of Directors:
Appointment:
Mr. Yogeshkumar Mangubhai Desai (DIN: 10501676) is appointed as an Additional
Non-Executive Independent Director of the Company w.e.f. February 12, 2024 subject to
approval of shareholders through postal ballot. Brief profile and other information of Mr.
Yogeshkumar Mangubhai Desai (DIN: 10501676) proposing appointment as an Non-Executive
Independent Director forms part of the notice of postal ballot. His appointment was
approved by the shareholders on May 6, 2024
Cessations:
Mr. Rahul Gupta (DIN: 00024732) resigned from the position of Non-Executive Independent
Director of the Company w.e.f. November 7, 2023. The Board of Directors of the Company
deeply appreciates his valuable contribution and support during his term as Non-Executive
Independent Director of the Company.
Mr. Garth Brosnan (DIN: 09836995) resigned as the Non-Executive Nominee Director of the
Company representing RIB ITWO Software Private w.e.f. May 24, 2024 due to the fact that
the Loan payable to RIB Group has been fully repaid and there is no longer any need to
fulfil the role of representative director.
Re-appointment of Directors:
As per the provisions of Section 152(6) of the Companies Act, 2013 and other applicable
provisions thereunder, Ms. Priti Gupta (DIN: 01735673), Whole-time Director of the
Company, whose office is liable to retire by rotation at the ensuing Annual General
Meeting and being eligible, seeks re- appointment. Based on the recommendation of the
Nomination and Remuneration Committee, the Board recommends her re-appointment to the
shareholders in the ensuing Annual General Meeting.
Appointment / Resignation of Key Managerial Personnel:
Ms. Akancha Bhadani resigned as the Compliance Officer of the Company w.e.f. May 25,
2023.
Ms. Shalaka Khandelwal is appointed as a Company Secretary & Compliance Officer of
the Company w.e.f. May 25, 2023.
Declaration from Independent Directors and statement on compliance of code of conduct:
Your Company has received necessary
declarations from all its Independent Directors stating that they meet the criteria of
independence as provided in Sub-section (6) of Section 149 of the Companies Act, 2013 and
Regulation 16(1)(b) of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations,
2015, as amended. Further, in terms of Regulation 25(8) of the SEBI Listing Regulations,
Independent Directors have confirmed that they are not aware of any circumstances or
situations, which exist or may be reasonably anticipated, that could impair or impact
their ability to discharge their duties with an objective independent judgement and
without any external influence.
Independent Director have complied with Code of Independent Directors
prescribed in Schedule IV of Companies Act, 2013. All the Independent Directors of the
Company have enrolled themselves in the data bank with the Indian Institute of
Corporate Affairs', New Delhi, India.
In the opinion of the Board the Independent Directors possess necessary
expertise and experience (including the proficiency) and they are of high integrity and
repute. During the year, Independent Directors of the Company had no pecuniary
relationship or transactions with the Company, other than sitting fees for attending
meetings of the Board of Director. The details of sitting fees paid are mentioned in the
Corporate Governance Report.
All the Directors and Senior Management Personnel have also complied
with the code of conduct of the Company as required under SEBI (Listing Obligations and
Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.
ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
The annual evaluation framework for assessing the performance of
Directors comprises of the following key areas:
- Attendance for the meetings, participation and independence during the meetings.
- Interaction with Management.
- Role and accountability of the Board.
- Knowledge and proficiency
- Strategic perspectives or inputs.
The evaluation of the performance of the Board,
its Committees, Chairman & Directors and suggestion emanating out of the performance
evaluation exercise were reviewed by the Independent Directors at their separate meeting
held on August 10, 2023 and Nomination & Remuneration Committee & Board of
Directors at their respective meetings held on August 10, 2023 for the Financial year
2023-
24. The Board evaluation outcome showcasing the strengths of the Board
and areas of improvement
in the processes and related issues for enhancing Board effectiveness
were discussed by the Nomination & Remuneration Committee & Board. Overall, the
Board expressed its satisfaction on the performance evaluation process as well as
performance of all Directors, Committees and Board as a whole.
The evaluation indicates that the Board of Directors has an optimal mix
of skills/expertise to function effectively. The mapping of board skills/expertise
vis-?-vis individual Directors is outlined in the Report on Corporate Governance Report
which is attached as Annexure E to this Report.
A member of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee and the Board
does not participate in the
discussion of his / her evaluation.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation
17(10) of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 the
board has carried out the performance evaluation of the Board, the Committees of the Board
and individual directors.
The Composition of Board of Directors & Key Managerial Person as at March 31, 2024
consists of following:
Sr. No. |
Name |
Designation |
1.
|
Mr. Vijay Gupta |
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer |
2.
|
Ms. Priti Gupta |
Whole-time Director |
3.
|
Mr. Pratik Patel |
Whole-time Director |
4.
|
Mr. Rahul Gupta |
Independent Director (Resigned on 07.11.2023) |
5.
|
Mr. Sridhar Pillalamarri |
Independent Director |
6.
|
Mr. Sundararajan Srinivasan |
Independent Director |
7.
|
Dr. Rakesh Kumar Singh |
Independent Director |
8.
|
Mr. Yogeshkumar Mangubhai Desai |
Additional Independent Director (Appointed on
12.02.2024) |
9.
|
Mr. Garth Brosnan |
Nominee Director (Resigned on
24.05.2024) |
10.
|
Mr. Kamal Agrawal |
Chief Financial Officer |
11.
|
Ms. Shalaka Khandelwal |
Company Secretary & Compliance Officer |
BOARD MEETINGS:
The Board meets at regular intervals to discuss and decide on
Company's / business policy and strategy apart from other businesses. The notice of
Board meeting is given well in advance to all the Directors. The Agenda of the Board /
Committee meetings is set by the Company Secretary in consultation with the Chairman and
Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of the Company. The Agenda for the Board and
Committee meetings covers items set out in SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015 and Companies Act, 2013 to the extent it is relevant and
applicable. The Agenda for the Board and Committee meetings include detailed notes on the
items to be discussed at the meeting to enable the Directors to take an informed decision.
During the Financial Year under review, the Board of Directors of the
Company has met Four (4) times on
May 25, 2023, August 10, 2023, November 7, 2023 and February 12, 2024.
The maximum interval
between any two meetings was well within the maximum allowed gap of 120 days. Details
of these Board
meetings are provided in the Corporate Governance Report which is Annexure E to
this Report.
COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD:
In terms of the requirements of the SEBI Listing Regulations, the
Board has constituted Audit Committee, Stakeholders' Relationship Committee,
Nomination & Remuneration Committee and Corporate Social Responsibility Committee.
Details of all the Committees along with their scope, compositions and
meetings held during the year are outlined in the Corporate Governance which forms part of
this Annual Report as Annexure E and is also available on the website of the
Company
https://softtech-engr.com/wp-content/uploads/Composition-of-various-committees-of-board-of-
directors-1.pdf
or
https://softtechglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Composition-of-various-committees-of-
board-of-directors_updated-07.11.2023.pdf
The recommendations made by the Committees to the Board of Directors were accepted by
the Board,
after due deliberation.
PARTICULARS OF CONTRACTS/ARRANGEMENTS WITH RELATED PARTIES:
All transactions entered with related parties during the F.Y.
2023-24 were on arm's length basis and were in the ordinary course of business. There
were no material related party transactions (RPTs) undertaken by the Company during the
Financial Year that require Shareholders' approval under Regulation 23(4) of SEBI
LODR or Section 188 of the Act. There have been no materially significant related party
transactions with the Company's Promoters, Directors and others as defined in section
2(76) of the Companies Act, 2013. The approval of the Audit Committee was sought for all
RPTs. Certain transactions which were repetitive in nature were approved through omnibus
route. All the transactions were in compliance with the applicable provisions of the
Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI LODR, as applicable. Form AOC-2 is enclosed herewith as Annexure
B' to the Boards' Report.
The disclosures as per Indian Accounting Standards for the related
party transactions are given in the Financial Statement of the Company.
CHANGES IN SHARE CAPITAL:
Preferential /Private Placement Basis
During the financial year under review,
the Company has made allotment of 20,00,000 (Twenty Lakhs) Fully Convertible Warrants
("Warrants/ Convertible Warrants") of the Company issued at a Subscription Price
of Rs. 31.25/- per warrant (25% of the Issue Price), entitling the Warrant holder to
exercise an option to subscribe to 20,00,000 (Twenty Lakhs) Equity Shares of the Company
having a face value of Rs. 10/- each at an exercise price of Rs. 93.75/- (75% of Issue
Price), Issue price being Rs. 125/- (face value Rs. 10/- and a premium of Rs. 115/-) per
equity share on preferential basis.
Further, the warrant holder had deposited the subscription amount
equivalent to 25% of the Warrant Issue Price i.e. Rs. 6,25,00,000/- (Rupees Sixty Two
Crores and Five lakhs only) and upon receipt of remaining issue amount aggregating to Rs.
18,75,00,000/- (Rupees Eighteen Crore Seventy-Five Lakhs only) at the rate of Rs. 93.75
(Rupees Ninety Three and Seventy Five Paise Only) per warrant (being 75%
of the issue price per warrant as "Warrant Exercise Price")
and on receipt of duly signed application form from M/s Florintree Technologies LLP,
warrant holder, as per the terms of issue of Warrants, the Board of Directors of the
Company, has on October 27, 2023, considered and approved the allotment of 20,00,000
(Twenty Lakhs) Equity Shares of Rs. 10/- each, upon conversion/ exchange of/for equal
number of Warrants. The new equity shares so allotted, shall rank pari passu with the
existing equity shares of the Company.
Further, the Company has made allotment of 6,63,120 (Six Lakhs Sixty
Three Thousand One Hundred and Twenty) Unsecured Compulsorily Convertible Debentures
("CCDs"), of the Company ("CCDs") issued at a Subscription Price of
Rs. 125/- per Debenture (100% of the Issue Price), being convertible into 6,63,120 (Six
Lakhs Sixty Three Thousand One Hundred and Twenty) Equity Shares at a conversion price of
Rs 125/- (face value Rs. 10/- and a premium of Rs. 115/-) per equity share on preferential
basis.
Further, the Compulsorily Convertible Debentures holder had deposited
subscription amount equivalent to 100% of the issue price i.e. Rs. 8,28,90,000/- (Rupees
Eight Crores Twenty-Eight Lakhs and Ninety Thousand only). Upon receipt of duly signed
application form from M/s East India Udyog Limited, CCDs holder, as per the terms of issue
of Compulsorily Convertible Debentures, the Board of Directors of the Company, has on
October 27, 2023, considered and approved the allotment of 6,63,120 (Six Lakhs Sixty Three
Thousand One Hundred Twenty) Equity Shares of Rs. 10/- each, upon conversion for equal
number of CCDs. The new equity shares so allotted, shall rank pari passu with the existing
equity shares of the Company.
Further, the Company has neither allotted any Employee Stock Option
Scheme, sweat equity nor it has bought back any shares or securities.
EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION SCHEME:
The Company has the SoftTech Employees Stock Option Plan 2017
(SOFTTECH ESOP 2017)' being implemented in accordance with the SEBI regulations in
this regard. The Company has obtained certificate of auditors of the Company pursuant to
Regulation 13 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee
Benefits) Regulations, 2014 in this regards. The Disclosures pursuant to SEBI (Share Based
Employee Benefits) Regulations, 2014 is available in Financial section on the website of
the Company at https://softtech-engr.com/wp-content/uploads/SoftTech-Employees-Stock-Option-Plan-
2017.pdf
or
https://softtechglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SoftTech-Employees-Stock-Option-Plan-
20171.pdf.
The disclosures in compliance with Regulation 14 of the Securities
And Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits And Sweat Equity) regulations,
2021 and other applicable regulation, if any is available on the website of the Company at
https://softtechglobal.com/wp- content/uploads/2024/07/ESOP-Disclosure.pdf
and Form ESOP Annexure is enclosed herewith as "Annexure C" to the
Board's Report.
UTILIZATION OF PROCEEDS FROM PREFERENTIAL ISSUE:
The proceeds of the preferential issue have been used in accordance with the
objects stated in offer document. There is no deviation in use of proceeds from objects
stated in the offer documents in FY 2023-
24. The summary of utilisation of proceeds from preferential issue as on March 31, 2024
is stated in Note No. 36 of Notes to Accounts.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE OUTGO:
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY:
The operations carried out by the Company are
such that they are not deemed as energy intensive. However, the Company constantly makes
efforts to avoid excessive consumption of energy. The measures are aimed at effective
management and utilization of energy resources and resultant cost saving of the Company.
steps taken by Company to conserve energy:
- Turning off lights and electronics when not in use.
- Upgrading appliances and equipment to energy-efficient models.
- Utilizing natural light whenever possible.
- Improving building insulation to minimize heating/cooling needs.
- Implementing smart thermostats for automated temperature control.
- Educating employees on energy-saving practices.
the steps taken by the company for utilising alternate sources of energy; Nil
the capital investment on energy conservation equipments; Nil
TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION:
Every effort is made by the Company to update the
technological skills of its technical staff in order to ensure that they possess adequate
skills to enable them to service the Company's clients.
the efforts made towards technology absorption Nil.
the benefits derived like product improvement, cost reduction, product development or
import substitution Nil.
in case of imported technology (imported during the last three years reckoned from the
beginning
of the financial year Nil.
the expenditure incurred on Research and Development Nil
- FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS AND OUTGO:
(? in Lakhs)
AUDITORS:
Statutory Auditors:
In the 25th Annual General Meeting
(AGM) held on September 30, 2021 M/s. P G Bhagwat LLP, Chartered Accountants (Firm
Registration No. 101118W/W100682) have been appointed as the Statutory Auditors of the
Company for a term of Five (5) years i.e. from the conclusion of 25th AGM up to
the conclusion of 30th AGM of the Company.
M/s. P G Bhagwat LLP, Chartered Accountants (Firm Registration No.
101118W/W100682), have confirmed their willingness to act as Statutory Auditors of the
Company. The Company has received letter from M/s. P G Bhagwat LLP (Firm Registration No.
101118W/W100682), to the effect that their appointment, would be within the prescribed
limits under Section 141(3)(g) of the Companies Act, 2013 and that they are not
disqualified from being appointed.
Secretarial Auditor:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Companies Act,
2013 and the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014,
Mr. Devesh Tudekar, (COP No: 2506, FCS No.: 5712) Practicing Company Secretary and
Partner of DTSM & Associates, Pune was appointed as a Secretarial Auditor of the
Company to carry out the audit of the Secretarial Records of the Company for the Financial
Year 2023-24. A Report of the Secretarial Audit is annexed herewith as Annexure
D'.
Pursuant to SEBI Circular CIR/CFD1/27/2019 dated 8th
February 2019 all listed entities shall, additionally, on annual basis, submit a report to
the stock exchange(s) on compliance of all applicable SEBI Regulations and circulars /
guidelines issued thereunder within 60 days of end of Financial Year. Such report shall be
submitted by Company Secretary in practice to the Company in the prescribed format.
The Company has received such report from DTSM & Associates,
Practicing Company Secretaries, Pune for the Financial Year ended March 31, 2024 and it
has been submitted to the stock exchange(s) within the stipulated time.
Internal Auditor:
For the FY 2023-24 the Company appointed M/s. Sharp & Tannan
Associates (FRN:109983W), Chartered Accountants, as an internal auditors to conduct
internal audit of the functions and activities of the Company.
- REPORTING OF FRAUD BY STATUTORY AUDITORS:
There was no fraud suspected in the Company, hence no
reporting was made by Statutory Auditors of the Company under sub-section (12) of section
143 of Companies Act, 2013.
- DEPOSITS:
The Company has not accepted any deposits within the
meaning of Section 73 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules made there under.
- DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT:
Pursuant to Section 134(5) of the Companies Act, 2013 the
Board of Directors of the Company confirms
that -
In the preparation of the annual accounts for the year ended March 31, 2024, the
applicable Accounting Standards had been followed along with proper explanation relating
to material departures;
The directors have selected such accounting policies and applied them consistently and
made judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as to give a true and fair
view of the state of affairs of the Company at the end of the financial year and profit of
the Company for the year ended March 31, 2024;
The directors have taken proper and sufficient care for the maintenance of adequate
accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 for
safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other
irregularities;
The directors have prepared the Annual Accounts on a going concern basis;
The directors have laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the Company
and that such
internal financial controls are adequate and were
operating effectively; and
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.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE:
The Company has taken adequate steps to
ensure that the conditions of Corporate Governance as stipulated and applicable under
various regulations are complied with. The Company has strived to maximise the wealth of
shareholders by managing the affairs of the Company with the pre-eminent level of
accountability, transparency and integrity. A report on Corporate Governance including the
relevant Audiors' Certificate regarding the conditions of Corporate Governance as
stipulated in Regulation 34(3) read with Part E of Schedule V of the SEBI (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 is annexed and forms part of
Annual Report as Annexure E'.
COMPLIANCE OF SECRETARIAL STANDARDS:
Your directors states that The Company
has complied with the provisions of the applicable Secretarial Standards issued by the
Institute of Company Secretaries of India on the Meetings of Board of Directors (SS-01)
and on General Meetings (SS-02).
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PREVENTION OF INSIDER TRADING:
The Company has adopted a Code of Conduct
for Prevention of Insider Trading with a view to regulate trading in securities by the
Directors and designated employees of the Company. The code provides for periodical
disclosures from Directors and designated employees as well as pre-clearances of
transactions by such persons.
The detailed Code of Internal Procedures and Conduct for Regulating,
Monitoring and Reporting of Trading by Insiders is placed on the Company's website
and can be viewed at: https://softtech- engr.com/wp-content/uploads/Code-of-Conduct-for-Prevention-of-Insider-trading.pdf.
Or https://softtechglobal.com/investors/
INFORMATION ABOUT SUBSIDIARY/ JV/ ASSOCIATE COMPANY:
During the Financial Year under review, the Company has
incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary with the name of SoftTech Digital Solutions
Ltd.' in UK on November 14, 2023 with the object of International Market Penetration
of SoftTech's products established in India.
Your Company has a subsidiary with name SoftTech Care Foundation,
Section 8 Company, AmpliNxt Private Limited, SoftTech Engineers Inc, in state of Delaware,
USA, SoftTech Digital Pte. Ltd., Singapore and a wholly owned subsidiary named SoftTech
Finland Oy located in Republic of Finland. The Company has a step down subsidiary
(Subsidiary of SoftTech Engineers Inc.) as SoftTech Government Solutions Inc. in the
Commonwealth of Virginia and step down subsidiary (Subsidiary of SoftTech Digital Pte.
Ltd.) as SoftTech Digital Software L.L.C in the Emirates of Dubai, UAE.
STATEMENT CONTAINING THE SALIENT FEATURES OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF SUBSIDARIES
/ ASSOCIATE COMPANIES / JOINT VENTURES:
Further a statement containing salient features of the financial
statements of subsidiaries in the prescribed format AOC-1 is appended as Annexure-F'
to this Report. The statement also provides details of performance, financial
position.
There has not been any material change in the nature of the business of
the Subsidiaries. As required under SEBI LODR Regulations, 2015 and Companies Act, 2013,
the consolidated financials of your Company and Subsidiaries are provided in this annual
report.
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY:
Periodic assessments to identify the risk areas are carried out and
the management is briefed on the risks in advance to enable the Company to control risk
through a properly defined plan. The risks are classified as financial risks, operational
risks and market risks. The risks are taken into account while preparing the annual
business plan for the year. The Board is also periodically informed of the business risks
and the actions taken to manage them. The Company has formulated a Plan for Risk
Management with the following objectives:
- Provide an overview of the principles of risk management.
- Explain approach adopted by the Company for risk management.
- Define the organizational structure for effective risk management.
- Develop a "risk" culture that encourages all employees to identify risks and
associated
opportunities and to respond to them with effective actions.
Identify, assess and manage existing and new risks in a planned and coordinated manner
with minimum disruption and cost, to protect and preserve Company's human, physical
and financial assets.
ADEQUACY OF INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROLS WITH REFERENCE TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT:
Your Company has an Internal Control System in accordance with
Section 134(5)(e) of the Act, commensurate with the size, scale and complexity of its
operations. The Audit Committee comprising of professionally qualified Directors,
interacts with the statutory auditor, internal auditors and the management in dealing with
matters within its terms of reference.
The Company has a proper and adequate system of internal controls.
These controls ensure transactions are authorized, recorded and reported correctly and
assets are safeguarded and protected against loss from unauthorized use or disposition. In
addition, there are operational controls and fraud risk controls, covering the entire
spectrum of internal financial controls within the meaning of the Act. An extensive
program of internal audits and management reviews supplement the process of internal
financial control framework. Documented policies, guidelines and procedures are in place
for effective management of internal financial controls.
The Company also has an Audit Committee which reviews with the
management adequacy and effectiveness of the internal control system and internal audit
functions. The scope of the Internal Audit is decided by the Audit Committee and the
Board. There are policies, guidelines and delegation of power issued for the compliance of
the same across the Company.
The Audit Committee and the Board are of the opinion that the Company
has sound Internal Financial Control commensurate with the nature and size of its business
operations and are operating effectively, and no material weakness exists during Financial
year 2023-24.
PARTICULARS OF LOANS, GUARANTEES AND INVESTMENTS UNDER SECTION 186:
During the financial year under review, the Company has invested ? 334.19 Lakhs in
Debentures of SoftTech Egineers Inc. (Subsidiary).
During the financial year under review, the Company has invested ? 118.24 Lakhs in
Equity Shares of SoftTech Digital Pte Ltd (Subsidiary).
During the financial year under review, the Company has invested ? 125.75 Lakhs in
Equity Shares of Qi Square Pte Ltd (Subsidiary).
Please refer Note No. 5 notes forming part of the financial statements
to the Standalone Financial Statements) for investments under Section 186 of the Companies
Act, 2013. Except this, the Company has not made any investment or granted any Loans or
Guarantees covered under Section 186 of the Companies Act, 2013 & Rules thereof
including amendments thereunder.
LOAN FROM DIRECTORS AND RELATIVES OF DIRECTOR:
The details of loans and advances accepted from directors of the Company and
relatives of directors as on March 31, 2024 given below:
(? In Lakhs)
Sr. No. |
Name of person |
Designation |
Loan Taken during the year |
Loan repaid
during the year
|
Balance as on 31.03.2024
|
1 |
Vijay Gupta |
Managing Director |
50.00 |
50.00 |
(201.09) |
2 |
Priti Gupta |
Whole -Time Director |
10.00 |
10.00 |
(36.24) |
NOMINATION & REMUNERATION POLICY:
The Company has in placed a Policy on Directors' appointment
and remuneration of the Directors, Key managerial Personnel (KMP) and other employees
including criteria for determining qualifications, positive attributes, independence of a
Director and other matters. The Policy is in compliance with the provisions of the
Companies Act, 2013 read with the Rules made therein and is formulated to provide a
framework and set standards. The detailed Nomination & Remuneration Policy of the
Company is placed on the Company's website and can be viewed at:
https://softtechglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Nomination-and-Remuneration-Policy.pdf
VIGIL MECHANISM:
The Company has adopted a Vigil Mechanism / Whistle Blower Policy,
to provide a formal mechanism to the directors and employees to report their concerns
about unethical behavior, actual or suspected fraud or violation of the Company's Code of
Conduct or Ethics Policy. The Policy provides for adequate safeguards against
victimization of employees who avail the mechanism and also provides for direct access to
the Chairman of the Audit Committee in exceptional cases. During the year under review,
the Company has not received any complaints under the said mechanism. The Vigil Mechanism
/ Whistle Blower Policy has been posted on the website of the Company
https://softtechglobal.com/wp-
content/uploads/2024/04/Vigil-Mechanism-Whistle-Blower-11.pdf
DISCLOSURE UNDER THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE (PREVENTION, PROHIBITION
AND REDRESSAL) ACT, 2013:
The Company has in place an Anti Sexual Harassment Policy in line
with the requirements of The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention,
Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The Policy has set guidelines on the redressal and
inquiry process that is to be followed by aggrieved woman, whilst
dealing with issues related to sexual harassment at the work place
towards any women. All employees (permanent, temporary, contractual and trainees) are
covered under this policy.
The Company has complied with the provision relating to the
constitution of the Internal Complaint Committee under The Sexual Harassment of Women at
Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
- Number of complaints pending as of the beginning of the financial year: 0
- Number of complaints filed during the financial year: 0.
- Number of complaints pending as of the end of the financial year: 0
It may be noted that during the year 2023-24, no
grievance / complaint from any women employee was reported.
MATERIAL CHANGES & COMMITMENTS, BETWEEN THE DATE OF BALANCE SHEET AND THE DATE OF
BOARD REPORT:
There have been no material changes and commitments affecting the
financial position of the Company which have occurred between the end of the Financial
Year of the Company to which the Financial Statements relate and the date of the report,
except as disclosed elsewhere in this report.
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS:
The industrial relations during the year 2023-24 have been cordial.
The Directors take on record the dedicated services and significant efforts made by the
Officers, Staff and Workers towards the progress of the Company.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:
The Company has developed Corporate Social Responsibility Policy as
per the provisions of the Section 135 of the Companies Act 2013. In compliance of Section
135 of the Companies Act, 2013, your Company has constituted a Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR) Committee comprising of
Sr. No.
|
Name of Member of the Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) Committee |
Designation |
1.
|
Mr. Vijay Gupta |
Chairperson and Managing Director |
2.
|
Mrs. Priti Gupta |
Member and Whole-time Director |
3.
|
Mr. Sridhar Pillallamarri |
Member and Independent Director |
The details as per the requirement are
annexed to this report as Annexure G'.
PARTICULARS OF EMPLOYEE REMUNERATION:
Disclosures with respect to the remuneration
of Directors, KMPs and employees as required under Section 197(12) of the Companies Act,
2013 read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial
Personnel) Rules, 2014 are given in Annexure H' to this Report.
CHANGE IN NATURE OF BUSINESS, IF ANY:
During the year under review, there was no
change in the nature of business of the Company.
THE EXPLANATIONS OR COMMENTS BY THE BOARD ON EVERY QUALIFICATION, RESERVATION OR ADVERSE
REMARK OR DISCLAIMER MADE BY THE STATUTORY AUDITORS/ SECRETARIAL AUDITOR IN THE AUDIT
REPORT:
There are no qualifications or adverse
remarks in the Statutory Auditors' Report which require any clarification/
explanation. The notes on financial statements and comments by Statutory Auditors are
self- explanatory, and need no further explanation.
Observation by Secretarial
Auditor |
Explanation by the Board |
- Trading application submitted to BSE Limited via issue type viz. "Conversion of
warrants/CCDs" instead of issue type viz. "preferential issue." - Trading
application for BSE Limited submitted to BSE Limited via issue type viz, "Conversion
of warrants/CCDs" instead of issue type viz. preferentiaI issue." However, Fresh
application was submitted on March 18, 2024
- As per Reg 25 (6) of SEBI LODR, on resignation of ID, Company is required to fulfil the
casual vacancy by a new ID within 3 months from the date of such vacancy. The Company
appointed new ID with delay of 4(four) days- New Independent Director (ID) was appointed
on February 12, 2024 upon resignation of ID on November 07, 2023 with a delay of 4 days.
|
- The Company had erroneously applied in the wrong issue type and the re-application was
done. The Company has complied with the timely application for trading approval.
- The Company wish to clarify that the said non- compliance occurred due to sudden
resignation of Mr. Rahul Gupta (ex-Independent Director) effective November 07, 2023, post
which the Company made all possible efforts to fill the said vacancy, within the
prescribed time as per regulation 25 of the LODR Regulations, 2015. Considering the level
of competency, skills, experience and seniority required for the said post, it took
reasonable time to identify and finalize the potential candidate. After a diligent
selection process, Mr. Yogesh Desai (DIN: 10501676) was appointed as Independent Director
on February 12, 2024.The Company is aware of the timelines and Regulation 25 of the LODR
Regulations which is read with Regulation 17(1)(b) of SEBI LODR Regulations, 2015.
The Company understand the importance of adhering to listing regulations and SEBI
guidelines. The Company has paid requisite fine to stock
exchanges. |
SIGNIFICANT AND MATERIAL ORDERS PASSED BY THE REGULATORS / COURTS / TRIBUNALS IMPACTING
THE GOING CONCERN STATUS AND THE COMPANY'S FUTURE OPERATIONS:
The Company has not received any such orders from regulators or courts or tribunals
during the year, which may impact the going concern status of the Company or its
operations.
OTHER DISCLOSURES:
The Company is not required to maintain cost records, as specified by the Central
Government under section 148 of the Act.
No application has been made under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code; hence the
requirement to disclose the details of application made or any proceeding pending under
the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (31 of 2016) during the Financial Year along with
their status as at the end of the Financial Year is not applicable.
The requirement to disclose the details of difference between amount of the valuation
done at the time of onetime settlement and the valuation done while taking loan from the
Banks or Financial Institutions along with the reasons thereof, is not applicable to the
Company.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
Your Directors place on record their
sincere thanks to the customers, vendors, investors, banks, financial & academic
institutions, regulatory authorities, stock exchanges and all other stakeholders for their
continued co-operation and support.
Your Directors also acknowledge the support and co-operation from the Government of
India, state
governments and overseas government(s), their agencies and other regulatory
authorities.
Your Directors also appreciate the commendable efforts, teamwork and professionalism of
the employees
of the Company.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors
SOFTTECH ENGINEERS LIMITED
VIJAY GUPTA
CHAIRMAN & MANAGING DIRECTOR DIN: 01653314
DATE: August 14, 2024 PLACE: PUNE
Encl:
Annexure A - Management Discussion and Analysis Report.
Annexure B - Particulars of Contract/Arrangement with Related Parties in Form AOC-2
Annexure C - ESOP Annexure
Annexure D - Report of the Secretarial Audit
Annexure E - Corporate Governance Report
Annexure F - AOC-1
Annexure G - Annual Report on Corporate Social Responsibility Activities.
Annexure H - Particulars of employee remuneration