The Board of Directors (“Board”) are pleased to present the Seventh Annual Report of Aarti Surfactants Limited(“ASL” or “Company” or “your Company”) together with Company’s Audited Financial Statements (Standalone andConsolidated) for the financial year ended March 31, 2025.
The Company’s Financial performance for the year ended March 31, 2025, is summarised below:
Standalone
Consolidated
2024-2025
2023-2024
Revenue from Operations
65,908.54
58,985.74
Other Income
347.88
13.31
347.89
Profit/loss before Depreciation, Finance Costs,Exceptional items and Tax Expense
4,561.29
6,314.26
4,539.71
6,226.00
Less: Depreciation/Amortisation
1,711.65
1,598.02
1,734.60
1,603.75
Profit/loss before Finance Costs, Exceptionalitems and Tax Expense
2,849.64
4,716.24
2,805.11
4,622.25
Less: Finance Costs
1,155.15
1,403.36
Profit/loss before Exceptional items andTax Expense
1,694.49
3,312.88
1,649.96
3,218.89
Add/(less): Exceptional items
420.25
-
Profit/loss before Tax Expense
2,114.74
2,070.21
Less: Tax Expense (Current & Deferred)
615.74
1,086.19
Profit/loss for the year (1)
1,499.00
2,226.69
1,454.47
2,132.70
Other Comprehensive Income/loss (2)
(21.05)
(11.37)
Total (1 2)
1,477.95
2,215.32
1,433.42
2,121.33
Your Company remains committed to sustainablegrowth, operational excellence, and deliveringlong-term value to stakeholders, while continuing tonavigate dynamic market conditions with resilienceand strategic agility.
The state of the Company’s affairs is given in theManagement Discussion and Analysis, which formspart of this Annual Report.
The Board is pleased to present the ConsolidatedFinancial Statements of the Company, prepared inaccordance with the applicable provisions of theCompanies Act, 2013, including Section 129(3), andRegulations 33 and 34 of the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.
The Consolidated Financial Statements have beendrawn up in compliance with the Indian AccountingStandards (Ind AS) as prescribed under theCompanies Act, 2013, thereby ensuring consistency,transparency, and comparability in the Company’sfinancial reporting.
The Company has not transferred any amount to thereserves for the financial year ended March 31, 2025.The entire profit for the year has been retained in theSurplus Account of the Statement of Profit and Loss.
Your Board of Directors recommended a Dividend of1.00/- (@10%) per share subject to approval of theShareholders at the ensuing 7th AGM, for the year2024-2025, resulting in a total payout of H 84,58,495(Rupees Eighty-Four Lakhs Fifty-Eight Thousand FourHundred and Ninety-Five only).
The Dividend payout is in accordance with theDividend Distribution Policy which is available on thewebsite of the Company. The Dividend DistributionPolicy, in terms of Regulation 43A of the SEBI(Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015 is available on the Company’swebsite at www.aarti-surfactants.com/policies.htm
Your Company’s Equity Share Capital is as follows:
Issued, Subscribed & Paid up
As ofMarch 31, 2025(j in lakhs)
As ofMarch 31, 2024(j in lakhs)
84,58,495 Equity Shares of H 10/- each fully paid up
845.85
847.68
Less: Calls unpaid 18,273 Equity Shares
(1.10)
Amount paid-up on 18,273 Equity Shares of H 10 each forfeited
0.73
TOTAL
846.58 |
846.58
The Company had issued 8,92,291 equity shares offace value H 10 each on a rights basis ('Rights EquityShares'). In accordance with the terms of issue, H 222per Rights Equity Share, i.e., 40% of the Issue Price, wasreceived from the allottees on application, and theshares were allotted. The Board made the First andFinal call of H 333 per Rights Equity Share (includinga premium of H 327 per share) in January 2024. Asof March 31, 2024, an aggregate amount of H 60.85lakhs were unpaid on 18,273 partly paid-up RightsShares. The Board of Directors, at its meeting heldon June 5, 2024, approved the forfeiture of all 18,273partly paid-up equity shares of face value H 10 each,on which the First and Final Call amount was notreceived, in accordance with the requirements ofSEBI (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2018. The Company has intimatedboth stock exchanges and filed the necessaryforms with the MCA.
The equity shares so allotted rank pari passu withthe existing equity shares of the Company. Exceptas stated herein, there was no other change in theshare capital of the Company.
In terms of Regulation 32 of SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015,there was no deviation or variation in utilization ofissue proceeds, received in the form of ‘first andfinal call money’ from conversion of 8,74,018 partlypaid-up equity shares into fully paid-up equityshares of face value H10/- each, during the periodended March 31, 2024 and same was filed with StockExchanges on May 10, 2024. The said conversion andutilization of Issue Proceeds was in accordance withthe Letter of Offer dated January 18, 2023 pertainingto Company’s Rights Issue. The necessary detailswith respect to the utilization of issue proceeds isavailable on the Company’s website at https://www.aarti-surfactants.com/material-and-recent-news.
Total *long-term borrowings of the HoldingCompany and its Subsidiary stood at H 2,760.27 ason March 31, 2025 as against H 4,793.43 lakhs as onMarch 31, 2024. Short term borrowings were H 8,112.99as on March 31, 2025 as against H 4,929.12 lakhs as onMarch 31, 2024.
*The long term borrowings includes 0% Non¬Convertible Redeemable Preference Shares of facevalue of H 10/- each.
The Company has not defaulted on payment of anydues to the financial lenders.
The Company’s borrowing programmes havereceived the credit ratings from CARE RatingsLimited, details of which is given in the CorporateGovernance Report forming part of this AnnualReport and is also available on the websiteof the Company.
During FY2024-2025, the Company’s outlay towardscapex was H 1,993.31 lakhs for the standalone andH 2,023.58 lakhs at the consolidated level.
As on March 31, 2025, the Company has one (1)wholly-owned subsidiary, namely Aarti HPC Limited.The subsidiary company is yet to commenceits operations.
The Company does not have any material subsidiarywhose net worth or turnover exceeds 10% of theconsolidated net worth or turnover, respectively,of the Company in the immediately precedingaccounting year. The Policy on Determining MaterialSubsidiaries has been formulated and is availableon the Company’s website at https://www.aarti-surfactants.com/policies.htm.
In accordance with Section 129(3) of the CompaniesAct, 2013, the Company has prepared ConsolidatedFinancial Statements of the Company and itssubsidiary in compliance with the applicableaccounting standards, which forms part ofthis Annual Report.
Pursuant to Section 129(3) of the Companies Act, 2013read with Rule 5 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules,2014, the salient features of the financial statementsof the subsidiary in the prescribed format AOC-1 areannexed to this Report as ‘Annexure A’ and form anintegral part thereof.
Further, in compliance with Section 136 of theCompanies Act, 2013, the Annual Report, AuditedFinancial Statements, and other related documentshave been made available on the Company’swebsite at www.aarti-surfactants.com/disclosures-regulation-46. These documents are available forinspection during business hours until the date ofthe forthcoming AGM at the Company’s RegisteredOffice and also in electronic form. Members whowish to inspect the same may write to the CompanySecretary at investors@aarti-surfactants.com.
It may further be noted that the Company doesnot have any associate company, joint venture, orholding company relationship.
The details of loans, guarantees, and investmentsmade by the Company, as required under Section186 of the Companies Act, 2013 and Schedule Vof the SEBI (Listing Obligations and DisclosureRequirements) Regulations, 2015, are disclosed inthe notes to the financial statements forming partof this Annual Report.
A report on the Management Discussion andAnalysis for the year under review, as stipulatedunder Regulation 34 of the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, ispresented in a separate section forming an integralpart of this Annual Report.
Your Company actively seeks to adopt globalbest practices for an effective functioning of theBoard and believes in having a truly diverse Board
whose wisdom and strength can be leveraged forcreating greater stakeholder value, protection oftheir interests and better corporate governance. TheCompany’s Board comprises eminent persons withproven competence and integrity, who bring in vastexperience and expertise, strategic guidance andleadership qualities.
The Board of Directors (“Board”) of the Company iscarefully structured to achieve an optimal balance,consisting of Executive and Non-Executive Directors,including an Independent Woman Director.This composition adheres strictly to the currentprovisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI(Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015 ensuring compliance withgovernance standards.
In accordance with the prevailing provisions ofthe Section 149 of the Companies Act, 2013 readwith Regulation 17 of the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015,as amended from time to time, as on March31, 2025, the Board of Directors, comprises ofSix Directors (with Two Executive Directors, TwoNon-Executive Non- Independent Directors and TwoIndependent Directors).
The Board is proactive in providing strategicguidance and fulfills its fiduciary responsibilitieswith a steadfast commitment to safeguarding theinterests of the Company and its stakeholders.
Additionally, all Directors of the Company haveconfirmed that there are no disqualifications againstthem for appointment as directors, in accordancewith Section 164 of the Companies Act, 2013.
The Company has received requisite declarationsfrom all the Independent Directors of theCompany confirming that they meet the criteriaof independence prescribed under Section 149(6)of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5 ofthe Companies (Appointment and Qualificationof Directors) Rules, 2014 and Regulation 16(1)(b)of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and DisclosureRequirements) Regulations, 2015. The IndependentDirectors have also confirmed that they are notaware of any circumstance or situation that existsor may be reasonably anticipated that could impairor impact their ability to discharge their duties withan objective independent judgment and withoutany external influence. These declarations includeconfirmations that they are not barred from holdingthe office of director by any SEBI order or any other
authoritative body. In the opinion of the Board,all the Independent Directors satisfy the criteriaof independence as defined under the Act, rulesframed thereunder and the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015,and that they are independent of the Managementof the Company. Furthermore, they have affirmedtheir adherence to the Code of Conduct outlined inSchedule IV of the Companies Act, 2013.
In the opinion of the Board, all IndependentDirectors (including those appointed during theyear) possess requisite qualifications, experience,expertise, proficiency and hold high standards ofintegrity for the purpose of Rule 8(5)(iii)(a) of theCompanies (Accounts) Rules, 2014. In terms of therequirements under the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015,the Board has identified list of key skills, expertiseand core competencies of the Board, including theIndependent Directors, details of which are providedas part of the Corporate Governance Report.
As required under Rule 6 of the Companies(Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules,2014, all the Independent Directors (including thosere-appointed during the year) have registeredthemselves with the Independent DirectorsDatabank and also completed the online proficiencytest conducted by the Indian Institute of CorporateAffairs, wherever required.
Separate meetings of the Independent Directorswere convened to assess the performance ofNon-Independent Directors and the effectiveness ofthe Board and its committees collectively. During thissession, a comprehensive questionnaire designedto probe various aspects of Board operations wasdistributed among the Directors. The evaluationcriteria for Independent Directors encompassed theirlevel of engagement in meetings, interpersonal skills,understanding of the business and its subsidiaries,capacity for independent judgment, expertise, andadherence to the compliance framework.
I. Appointment / Re-appointment of Directors
In terms of the Company’s Policy on Nominationand Remuneration Committee (“NRC Policy”),the Board at its meeting held on April 22,2024, based on the recommendation ofNomination and Remuneration Committee and
evaluation of the balance of skills, knowledge,experience and expertise on the Board andthat of the respective Director, approvedand recommended to the members thefollowing matter relating to re-appointmentof Independent Director, who is not liable toretire by rotation:
l) Re-appointment of Mrs. Misha B. Gala(DIN: 08523865) as an IndependentDirector for a second term of five yearswith effect from August 20, 2024 uptoAugust 19, 2029, based on the positiveoutcome of her performance evaluationand contributions during her first term asIndependent Director.
Subsequently, the Members approved theaforesaid re-appointment vide specialresolution at the 6th Annual General Meeting(agm) of the Company held on August 14, 2024.
The Board at its meeting held on August 05, 2025,based on the recommendation of Nominationand Remuneration Committee, approved thebelow matters subject to approval of Membersat the 7th Annual General Meeting:
1) Appointment of Mr. Parimal H. Desai(DIN:00009272), as a Non-ExecutiveDirector of the Company who has attainedthe age of 75 years, with effect fromOctober 01, 2025.
2) Appointment of Mrs. Nisha B. Shah(DIN:10049176), as an Independent Directorof the Company for a period of three (3)years with effect from October 01, 2025.
Directors Retiring by Rotation
In line with Section 152 of the CompaniesAct, 2013 the Companies (Management &Administration) Rules, 2014, and the Articles ofAssociation of the Company, Mr. Santosh M.Kakade (DIN: 08505234), an Executive Director, isliable to retire by rotation at the ensuing AnnualGeneral Meeting. Mr. Kakade, being eligible, hasoffered himself for re-appointment. The Boardof Directors recommends his re-appointment,acknowledging his invaluable contributions tothe board and the Company at large.
Pursuant to Regulation 36 of the SEBI (ListingObligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015 read with Secretarial
Standard-2 on General Meetings, a brief profileof the Directors proposed to be appointed /re-appointed is made available, as a part ofthe Notice convening 7th AGM.
II. Key Managerial Personnel
As of the date of this report, the Key ManagerialPersonnel of the Company, in accordance withthe provisions of Section 2(51) and Section 203of the Companies Act 2013, include Mr. NikhilP. Desai, serving as Chief Executive Officer &Managing Director, Mr. Nitesh H. Medh as ChiefFinancial Officer and Mrs. Priyanka A. Chaurasiaas Company Secretary & Compliance Officer.
The Members of the Board of the Companyare afforded many opportunities to familiarisethemselves with the Company, its Managementand its operations. The Directors are providedwith all the documents to enable them to have abetter understanding of the Company, its variousoperations and the industry in which it operates.
All the Independent Directors of the Company aremade aware of their roles and responsibilities at thetime of their appointment through a formal letter ofappointment, which also stipulates various termsand conditions of their engagement.
Executive Directors provide an overview of theoperations and familiarize the new Non-ExecutiveDirectors on matters related to the Company’svalues and commitments. They are also introducedto the organization structure, constitution of variouscommittees, board procedures, risk managementstrategies, etc.
Pursuant to Regulation 25(7) of the SEBI (ListingObligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015, the Company imparted variousfamiliarisation programmes for its Directorsincluding periodic review of Investments of theCompany at Finance Investment CommitteeMeetings, Regulatory updates, Industry Outlook,Business Strategy at the Board Meetings andchanges with respect to the Companies Act,Taxation and other matters, SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015,Framework for Related Party Transactions, etc. at theAudit Committee Meetings, Economic Environment &Global Scenario, Frontier Risks, Business Entity Risks,etc. at the Risk Management Committee Meetings,Products Launch and their Showcase etc. The
details as required under Regulation 46 of the SEBI(Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015 are available on the website of yourCompany at https://www.aarti-surfactants.com/independent-directors.htm.
The details of the Board of Directors andCommittees along with their composition, numberof meetings held and attendance at the meetingsduring the FY2024-2025 are provided in theCorporate Governance Report which forms part ofthis Annual Report. The intervening gap betweenthe Board/Committee’s Meetings was within theperiod prescribed under the Companies Act, 2013and the SEBI (Listing Obligations and DisclosureRequirements) Regulations, 2015.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 134(3)(c) and134(5) of the Companies Act, 2013 the Directors, tothe best of their knowledge and ability, confirm thatfor the year ended March 31, 2025 that;
a) in the preparation of the annual financialstatements for the year ended March 31, 2025,the applicable accounting standards have beenfollowed and there are no material departures;
b) they have selected such accounting policiesand applied them consistently and madejudgments and estimates that are reasonableand prudent so as to give a true and fair viewof the state of affairs of the Company at theend of the Financial Year and of the profit of theCompany for that period;
c) they have taken proper and sufficient carefor the maintenance of adequate accountingrecords in accordance with the provisionsof the Act for safeguarding the Assets of theCompany and for preventing and detectingfraud and other irregularities;
d) they have prepared the annual accounts on agoing concern basis;
e) they have laid down internal financial controlsto be followed by the Company and that suchinternal financial controls are adequate andwere operating effectively; and
f) they have devised proper systems to ensurecompliance with the provisions of all applicablelaws and that such systems were adequateand operating effectively.
The Company has a structured assessmentprocess, wherein the Nomination and RemunerationCommittee of the Company has laid down thecriteria of performance evaluation of the Board,its Committees and the Directors, including theChairman. The evaluations are carried out in aconfidential manner and each member of theBoard provides his/her feedback by rating basedon various metrics. Feedback is collected through astructured questionnaire.
Under the two layers evaluation process,Independent Directors evaluate the performance ofthe Board of Directors, Non-independent Directorsand the Chairman of the Company. Later the Boardof Directors evaluate performance of the Boarditself, its Committees and the Board members.
The performance evaluation during the yearhighlighted an overall better rating in areas suchas Board procedure, participation, and leadership.The Board demonstrated strong independence andintegrity, with full participation in the evaluationprocess. Improvements were noted in BoardCommittees, particularly in risk management andESG compliance, with effective communicationbetween executive and non-executive members.Suggestions for further enhancement includeda focus on emerging risks (digital, cyber, andgeopolitical), more frequent formal communicationregarding budget impacts, and additional trainingsessions to keep Directors updated on industrydevelopments. The Board and Management arecommitted to implementing these measures toenhance governance effectiveness in the currentfinancial year.
The details of the composition of the AuditCommittee, their terms of reference, meetings held,etc. are provided in the Corporate GovernanceReport, which forms part of this Report. Duringthe year, there were no cases where the Boardhad not accepted any recommendation of theAudit Committee.
Statutory Auditor and their Report
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 139 of theCompanies Act, 2013, the Members at the 1st AnnualGeneral Meeting (“AGM”) of the Company heldon October 21, 2019, appointed Gokhale & Sathe,
Chartered Accountants (Firm Registration No.103264W) as the Statutory Auditors of the Companyfor a term of five (5) years. Accordingly, their firstterm concluded at the 6th AGM.
Based on the recommendation of the AuditCommittee, the Board of Directors, at its meetingheld on April 22, 2024, approved the re-appointmentof Gokhale & Sathe, Chartered Accountants (FirmRegistration No. 103264W) as the Statutory Auditorsof the Company for a second term of five (5) years,commencing from the conclusion of the 6th AGM upto the conclusion of the 11th AGM to be held in the year2029. The said re-appointment was subsequentlyapproved by the Members at the 6th AGM held onAugust 14, 2024.
Gokhale & Sathe have consented to act asStatutory Auditors and confirmed their eligibility forre-appointment in terms of Section 141 and otherapplicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013. TheAudit Committee and the Board recommended theirre-appointment after reviewing their performanceduring the first term, and considering factors suchas independence, industry experience, professionalexpertise, and the quality of audit. The AuditCommittee periodically reviews the independenceof the Statutory Auditors through quarterlyaffirmations, monitoring of non-audit services, andinternal checks and balances designed to mitigateany potential conflict of interest.
The Auditor’s Report on the financial statements ofthe Company for the financial year ended March31, 2025 forms part of the Annual Report. The saidreport was issued by the Statutory Auditors withan unmodified opinion and does not contain anyqualifications, reservations or adverse remarks.
During the year under review, the Auditors havenot reported any fraud under Section 143(12) of theCompanies Act, 2013 and therefore disclosure ofdetails under Section 134(3)(ca) of the CompaniesAct, 2013 is not applicable.
In terms of Section 148 of the Act read with theCompanies (Cost Records and Audit) Rules,2014, the Company is required to maintain costaccounting records and have them audited everyyear. Accordingly, the Board at its meeting held onMay 12, 2025, based on the recommendation of theAudit Committee, appointed M/s. PHS & Associates,Cost Accountant (firm registration no.: 101038), asthe Cost Auditor of the Company to conduct auditof the cost records for the financial year ending
March 31, 2025. A remuneration of H 1,00,000/-(Rupees One Lakh only) plus applicable taxes andout of pocket expenses, has been fixed for the CostAuditor, subject to the ratification of such fees bythe Members at the 7th AGM. Accordingly, the matterrelating to ratification of the remuneration payableto the Cost Auditor for the financial year endingMarch 31, 2025 forms part of the Notice of the 7thAGM. The Company has received requisite consentand certificate of eligibility from PHS & Associates.
During the year under review, the Cost Auditor hasnot reported any fraud under Section 143(12) of theCompanies Act, 2013 and therefore disclosure ofdetails under Section 134(3)(ca) of the CompaniesAct, 2013 is not applicable.
The Company has maintained cost records asspecified under section 148(1) of the Act.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of theCompanies Act, 2013 and rules made thereunder,the Company had appointed CS Sunil M. Dedhia(COP No. 2031), Proprietor of Sunil M. Dedhia & Co.,Company Secretary in Practice to undertake theSecretarial Audit of the Company.
Pursuant to provisions of Section 204(1) of theCompanies Act, 2013 and Regulation 24A of the SEBI(Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015, the Secretarial Audit Report forthe Financial Year ended March 31, 2025 issuedby CS Sunil M. Dedhia (COP No. 2031), of Sunil M.Dedhia & Co. Company Secretary in Practice andthe Secretarial Auditor of the Company is annexedas ‘Annexure B’ and forms an integral part of thisReport. During the year under review, the SecretarialAuditor had not reported any fraud under Section143(12) of the Act.
There is no qualification, reservation or adverseremark or disclaimer made by the Auditorin their report.
Pursuant to the amendments to the SEBI (ListingObligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015, the Board, on the recommendationof the Audit Committee, has approved andrecommended to the Members the appointmentof M/s. Parikh & Associates (Firm’s Registrationno: P1988MH009800) (PR No. 6556/2025), as theSecretarial Auditor of the Company, for a period offive consecutive years commencing from April 1,2025 to March 31, 2030.
Brief details as required under the SEBI (ListingObligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015, are provided in the Notice of7th AGM. The Directors recommend the same forapproval by the Members.
Managing risk is not just a compliance requirement, itis a strategic priority that underpins our governanceand long-term sustainability. A well-definedframework enables us to identify potential threats,implement effective controls, and ensure operationalcontinuity. By fostering a culture of risk awarenessacross all levels, we strengthen our ability to deliverconsistent value to our stakeholders.
We are committed to leveraging technologyto enhance risk responsiveness and processefficiency. Through the continuous review ofbusiness operations, adoption of modern digitaltools, and process digitization—with strong internalcontrols—we ensure smooth integration with ourcustomers, consumers, and stakeholders, therebyimproving agility and resilience. The Companyhas implemented a comprehensive cybersecuritystrategy based on the principles of Identify, Protect,Detect, Respond, and Recover. These measures aredesigned to safeguard digital assets and data fromevolving cyber threats and security breaches.
To oversee and strengthen our risk managementpractices, the Company has constituted a dedicatedRisk Management Committee. The Committeesupports the Board by evaluating the effectivenessof risk management systems and ensuringalignment with regulatory requirements, includingthose specified under the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.Details regarding the composition, roles, andmeeting attendance of the Committee are providedin the Corporate Governance Report.
In terms of the applicable provisions of the SEBI(Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015, your Board has adopted aRisk Management Policy, which is available onthe Company’s website at https://www.aarti-surfactants.com/policies.htm.
The Company has established a robust system ofinternal financial controls commensurate with itssize and the nature of its operations. These controls
are designed to provide reasonable assuranceregarding the accuracy and reliability of financialand operational information, compliance withapplicable accounting standards and statutoryrequirements, safeguarding of assets againstunauthorized use or disposition, proper authorizationof transactions, and adherence to corporate policiesand procedures.
The Internal Auditor prepares an annual auditplan in consultation with the Management andthe Audit Committee, prioritizing audit activitiesbased on the criticality of system and processgaps. Reviews are conducted on an ongoing basisunder a comprehensive risk-based audit plan,which is approved by the Audit Committee at thebeginning of each financial year. The Internal Auditteam reports to the Management and the AuditCommittee on compliance with internal controls,efficiency and effectiveness of operations, andkey process risks.
The Audit Committee meets on a quarterly basis toreview Internal Audit reports, monitor implementationof action plans for significant audit findings, andensure adherence to the approved audit plan.
The Statutory Auditors’ Report on Internal FinancialControls, as required under Clause (i) of sub-section3 of Section 143 of the Companies Act, 2013, formspart of the Independent Auditors’ Report annexed tothis Annual Report.
The Company has a Policy on Materiality of RelatedParty Transactions and dealing with RelatedParty Transactions which is uploaded on theCompany’s website at https://www.aarti-surfactants.com/policies.htm.
All the transactions with the related parties carriedout during the FY 2024-2025 are in ordinary courseof business and on an arm’s length basis. There areno materially significant related party transactionsmade by the Company with Promoters, Directors,Key Managerial Personnel or their relatives whichmay have potential conflict of interest with theCompany at large.
The related party transactions are approved by theAudit Committee. Omnibus approval is obtained forthe transactions that are foreseen and repetitive innature. A statement of related party transactionsis presented before the Audit Committee on aquarterly basis, specifying the nature, value andterms and conditions of transactions. The details
of related party transactions are provided in theaccompanying financial statements.
In terms of Regulation 23 of the SEBI (ListingObligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015, the Company submits details ofrelated party transactions on a consolidated basisas per the specified format to stock exchanges on ahalf yearly basis.
During the year under review, there were notransactions for which consent of the Board wasrequired to be taken in terms of Section 188(l)of the Companies Act, 2013 and accordingly, nodisclosure is required in respect of the relatedparty transactions in Form AOC-2 under Section134(3)(h) of the Companies Act, 2013 and rulesframed thereunder. Further, there were no materialrelated party transactions in terms of the SEBI(Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015 requiring approval of the Members.
Pursuant to Section 177 of the Companies Act, 2013and Regulation 22 of the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015,the Company has established a Vigil Mechanism,also referred to as the Whistle-Blower Policy. Thismechanism provides a secure and confidentialplatform for employees, directors, and stakeholdersto report genuine concerns relating to unethicalbehaviour, actual or suspected fraud, violation of theCompany’s Code of Conduct, leak or suspected leakof Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI),bribery, corruption, or any other form of misconduct,without fear of retaliation or victimization.
The policy lays down procedures for addressingsuch disclosures and ensures that all matters areinvestigated in a fair and objective manner. Adequatesafeguards are in place to protect whistle-blowersagainst unfair treatment or disciplinary action.Further, employees and stakeholders have directaccess to the Chairman of the Audit Committee forreporting concerns.
The Audit Committee periodically reviews thefunctioning of the Vigil Mechanism to ensure itseffectiveness and alignment with best corporategovernance practices. It is also responsible formonitoring complaints received and ensuringappropriate action is taken for their resolution.
During the financial year under review, nocomplaints or disclosures were received under theVigil Mechanism, reaffirming the Company’s strongcommitment to ethical conduct, transparency, andaccountability in all its operations.
The Vigil Mechanism / Whistle-Blower Policy isavailable on the Company’s website at https://www.aarti-surfactants.com/policies.htm.
Your Company has constituted a Nomination andRemuneration Committee (nrc) of the Board, whichperforms its functions in accordance with the provisionsof the Companies Act, 2013, the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, andsuch other responsibilities as may be entrusted bythe Board from time to time. The composition of theCommittee, details of meetings held, and attendanceof Members are provided in the Corporate GovernanceReport forming part of this Annual Report.
The Company has formulated a comprehensiveNomination and Remuneration Policy in accordancewith the provisions of Section 178 of the Companies Act,2013 and Regulation 19 of the SEBI (Listing Obligationsand Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.The Policy outlines the criteria for appointmentand qualification of Directors, Key ManagerialPersonnel (kmp), and Senior Management, as wellas their remuneration structure, evaluation, andsuccession planning. The policy is available on theCompany’s website at https://www.aartisurfactants.com/policies.htm.
In addition, the Committee has formulated aseparate Policy on Board Diversity, which is alsoavailable on the Company’s website at the same link.
18. AARTI SURFACTANTS LIMITED EMPLOYEESTOCK OPTION PLAN 2024 (‘ESOP2024’/’’Plan’)
Your Company has implemented the AartiSurfactants Limited Employee Stock Option Plan2024 (‘ESOP 2024’/’’Plan’), which is administered bythe Nomination and Remuneration Committee. ThePlan provides for the grant of stock options to eligibleemployees, in compliance with the provisions of theSEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits and SweatEquity) Regulations, 2021.
Your Company has received a certificate from CSSunil M. Dedhia (COP No. 2031), of Sunil M. Dedhia& Co. Company Secretary in Practice that ESOP2024 has been implemented in accordance with
the provisions of the SEBI (Share Based EmployeeBenefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 and theresolution passed by the Shareholders. Any requestfor inspection of the said Certificate may please besent to investors@aarti-surfactants.com.
The information required under Section 197(12) ofthe Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(1) of theCompanies (Appointment and Remuneration ofManagerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 forms part of thisReport and annexed as ‘Annexure C’.
As per first proviso to Section 136(1) of the Act andsecond proviso of Rule 5(2) of the Companies(Appointment and Remuneration of ManagerialPersonnel) Rules, 2014, the report and financialstatements are being sent to the members of theCompany excluding the statement of particulars ofemployees under Rule 5(2) to ensure confidentialityand compliance with applicable provisions. Thesedocuments are available for inspection duringbusiness hours until the date of the forthcomingAGM at the Company’s Registered Office and alsoin electronic form. Members who wish to inspectthe same may write to the Company Secretary atinvestors@aarti-surfactants.com.
20. MATERIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN HUMANRESOURCES / INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS FRONT,INCLUDING NUMBER OF PEOPLE EMPLOYED
The Company firmly believes that employees are itsmost valuable asset and a key source of competitiveadvantage. In line with this philosophy, we continueto strengthen our employee engagement practicesaimed at fostering a culture of trust, collaboration,and inclusiveness. Our engagement initiativesare designed to create a sense of belongingand shared purpose while enhancing the overallemployee experience.
We actively invest in capability building throughstructured training and leadership developmentprograms, ensuring that employees arewell-prepared to meet evolving businesschallenges. Continuous communication andfeedback mechanisms provide employees withopportunities to participate in decision-makingprocesses, thereby reinforcing a culture of opennessand transparency. Furthermore, our wellness andwork-life balance programs support holisticgrowth and help employees align their professionalaspirations with personal well-being.
Through these initiatives, the Company seeksto nurture a motivated, committed, and future-ready workforce, recognizing that organizationalgrowth is directly linked to the growth andengagement of its people.
Our employees play a pivotal role in the Company’ssustained success. By nurturing talent, fosteringinnovation, and appropriately recognizingcontributions, we encourage our people to delivertheir best. We remain committed to creating aculture of safety, well-being, and engagementthrough various structured initiatives:
a) National Safety Day and Week includes a seriesof activities such as lighting the ceremoniallamp (deep prajwalan), displaying banners,pinning safety badges, awarding the bestdepartment for housekeeping and safetynorms etc, making safety pledges, andexplaining the National Safety Day theme.These activities underscore our commitment tosafety and create a sense of community andshared responsibility.
b) Competitions related to safety, including safetybelt wearing contests, poster, slogan, poem,and essay contests, quizzes and safety skidcompetitions. These competitions not onlyengage employees but also raise awarenessabout safety practices and encourageproactive safety measures.
c) Our on-job safety training sessions cover crucialtopics such as the use of personal protectiveequipment (ppe), emergency evacuationprocedures, material handling, electrical safety,housekeeping, and basic firefighting. Thesetraining sessions equip our employees with thenecessary skills and knowledge to maintain asafe working environment.
d) Engaged workforce is the most productive sourcefor the organisation in their success, deliveringthe best of their abilities with greater sense ofbelongingness and commitment at their jobs.We at ASL believe every small step contributesvalue to employees’ Work-Life-Balance.Celebrating employees’ special moments(Birthdays/ Anniversary/ Regional Festivals),extending support to foster intellectualgrowth through various Learning andDevelopment initiatives to nurture convivialityand happiness culture at workplace.
Through these comprehensive initiatives, weaim to create a workplace where employees feelrecognized, valued, and motivated to contribute toour collective success. By investing in our employeesand fostering a positive work environment, weensure that ASL remains a dynamic, innovative, andsuccessful organization.
As on March 31, 2025, the Company had 374permanent employees on the rolls.
Your Company believes that effective leadership,robust policies, processes and systems and a richlegacy of values form the hallmark of our bestcorporate governance framework. The Board, inconjunction with the management, sets values ofyour Company and drives the Company’s businesswith these principles. These ethics and values arereflected in Company’s culture, business practices,disclosure policies and relationship with itsstakeholders. These ethics and values is practicedby Company, which is at par with best internationalstandards and good corporate conduct.
Pursuant to Regulation 34 of the SEBI (ListingObligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015, a Report on Corporate Governanceis annexed hereto forming part of this report. Therequisite certificate from M/s Gokhale & Sathe,Chartered Accountants is attached to the Report onCorporate Governance.
At Aarti Surfactants Limited, we accord the highestpriority to Environment, Health, and Safety (ehs)across all operations. We are committed toregulatory compliance, sustainable practices, andthe well-being of our workforce, stakeholders, andthe communities in which we operate.
During the year, we strengthened our EHS frameworkthrough regular risk assessments, hazard identification,and mitigation measures. Comprehensive trainingprograms were conducted to instill a culture of safety,while investments in advanced technologies and state-of-the-art equipment further enhanced workplacesafety and environmental stewardship.
Our proactive approach includes periodic audits,robust emergency preparedness plans, andcontinuous improvement initiatives driven byperformance metrics and stakeholder feedback.By focusing on employee well-being, minimizing
environmental impact, and fostering transparency,the Company remains committed to upholdingthe highest standards of EHS and industry¬leading practices.
At ASL, sustainability is central to our corporatestrategy and operational philosophy. We arecommitted to advancing sustainable practicesacross our value chain through innovation,responsible sourcing, and resource efficiency. Ourapproach goes beyond regulatory compliance,focusing on reducing environmental impact whilecreating long-term value for stakeholders.
Key initiatives include optimizing manufacturingprocesses to lower energy consumptionand emissions, implementing robust wastemanagement protocols, and promoting circulareconomy principles through strategic partnerships.By embedding sustainability into our business model,we enhance operational resilience and reinforce ourposition as a responsible corporate citizen.
Guided by a long-term vision, we remaincommitted to transparency and accountability inour sustainability journey, recognizing that today’sactions shape tomorrow’s opportunities. Togetherwith our stakeholders, we aim to drive positivechange and set new benchmarks for sustainabilitywithin the specialty surfactants industry.
The SEBI (Listing Obligations and DisclosureRequirements) Regulations, 2015, stipulate that thetop 1000 listed companies by market capitalizationmust include a Business Responsibility &Sustainability Report (BRSR) in their Annual Report.This requirement aims to enhance transparencyand accountability regarding the environmental,social and governance (ESG) practices of thesecompanies. However, your Company is not rankedamongst the top 1000 listed entities for the fiscal year2024-2025. Consequently, we are not required toinclude the BRSR in our Annual Report for this period.
25. THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN ATWORKPLACE (PREVENTION, PROHIBITIONAND REDRESSAL) ACT, 2013
The Company believes that every womanemployee should have the opportunity to work in anenvironment free from any conduct which can be
considered as Sexual Harassment. The Companyhas Zero Tolerance towards sexual harassmentat the workplace.
The Company is committed to treating everyemployee with dignity and respect. The Companyhas formulated a policy on ‘Protection of Women’sRights at Workplace’ as per the provisions of‘The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace(Prevention, Prohibition & Redressal) Act, 2013 andRules, 2013’ (POSH Act and rules). This Policy isavailable on the website of the Company at www.aarti-surfactants.com/policies.htm. The POSH Policyis gender inclusive and the framework ensurescomplete anonymity and confidentiality.
This policy, supported by an Internal ComplaintCommittee, is structured in accordance with Section4 of The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. Itunderscores our proactive stance in addressing andmitigating issues of sexual harassment, ensuring asafe and supportive atmosphere for all employees.
Reflective of the efficacy of these measures, it isnoteworthy that during the year under review, therewere no cases filed pursuant to the Sexual Harassmentof Women at Workplace Act, 2013. This underscoresour ongoing commitment to maintaining a respectfuland secure work environment.
During the year, the Company organisedsensitization and awareness programs videinductions for new joiners, e-learning modules for allemployees, trainees, associates including sendingemailers etc. to sensitise all employees to conductthemselves in a professional manner.
Your Company has complied with the applicableprovisions of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961. Alleligible women employees have been extended thebenefits as prescribed under the Act. The Companyremains committed to supporting working mothersand promoting a gender inclusive workspace.
The Company has constituted a Corporate SocialResponsibility (csr) Committee in terms of therequirements of Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013read with the rules made thereunder. The composition,detailed terms of reference of the CSR Committee,attendance at its meetings and other details have
been provided in the Corporate Governance Report.The primary role of this committee is to approvethe CSR activities to be undertaken, allocate thenecessary expenditure and oversee the execution andeffectiveness of these initiatives.
The Board of Directors, along with the CSR Committee,actively reviews and monitors the CSR activitiesimplemented by the Company. During the year underreview, our CSR initiatives were executed in accordancewith the annual action plan previously approved by theBoard. These activities, which are distinctly separatefrom our normal business operations, focus on pivotaland relevant areas such as livelihood and financialinclusion, animal welfare, agriculture, communitydevelopment, education, and healthcare. Our aimis to continue focusing on these areas to achievemeaningful and positive outcomes that contributeto the Sustainable Development Goals.
Your Company’s CSR philosophy is anchored on thiscore purpose of making a difference to the lives ofall its stakeholders to help them achieve their fullpotential. Your Company believes that economicvalue and social value are inter-linked, and it hasa commitment towards the inter-dependentecosystem consisting of various stakeholders.
Furthermore, our CSR policy outlines the guidelinesand processes for undertaking CSR activities andthe same is available on the Company’s website atwww.aarti-surfactants.com/policies.htm ensuringtransparency and accessibility in how we approachour social responsibilities.
The disclosures required to be given under Section135 of the Act read with Rule 8(1) of the Companies(Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules,2014 are given in ‘Annexure D’ forming part ofthis Board Report.
28. ENERGY CONSERVATION, TECHNOLOGYABSORPTION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGEEARNINGS AND OUTGO
The particulars relating to conservation of energy,technology absorption, and foreign exchangeearnings and outgo, as required under Section 134(3)(m) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 8(3) ofthe Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, are providedin ‘Annexure E’ forming part of this Board’s Report.
The applicable Secretarial Standards, i.e. SS-1 andSS-2, relating to ‘Meetings of the Board of Directors’and ‘General Meetings’ respectively issued bythe Institute of Company Secretaries of India andnotified by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, havebeen duly complied by your Company.
During the year under review, your Company hasneither invited nor accepted any deposits fromthe public falling within the ambit of Section 73 ofthe Companies Act, 2013 and the rules framedthereunder. The requisite return with respect toamount(s) not considered as deposits has beenfiled with Registrar of Companies.
During the year under review, no significant ormaterial orders were passed by Regulators, Courts, orTribunals which could impact the Company’s goingconcern status or its future operations. However,Members’ attention is invited to the Statement onContingent Liabilities and Commitments appearingin the Notes to the financial statements.
Pursuant to Section 92(3) read with Section 134(3)(a)of the Act, the Annual Return as on March 31, 2025 isavailable on the Company’s website at https://www.aarti-surfactants.com/annual-return.htm.
There is no amount due, to be transferred tothe IEPF account.
In pursuit of strengthening our governanceframework and ensuring a proactive approachto regulatory adherence, the Company has aCompliance Management Tool as part of itsenterprise-wide risk management initiative.
This digital tool is designed to systematize andstreamline compliance tracking across all applicablelaws, regulations, and industry mandates. It enablesreal-time monitoring, timely alerts, and seamlessdocumentation, significantly reducing the chancesof inadvertent non-compliance.
By automating compliance processes andintegrating accountability at various levels, the toolacts as a strategic enabler in:
• Curtailing regulatory risks,
• Enhancing transparency and audit-readiness,
• Enabling prompt response to statutory changes,
• Promoting a culture of responsibility and control.
This initiative reflects the Company’s commitment toinstitutionalizing compliance, minimizing exposureto penalties or reputational damage, and upholdingthe highest standards of corporate governance.
Neither the CEO & Managing Director nor theExecutive Director received any remuneration orcommission from the subsidiary of your Company.
Your Directors state that no disclosure or reportingis required in respect of the following items as therewere no transactions / events on these items duringthe year under review:
1) Issue of equity shares with differential rights asto dividend, voting or otherwise.
2) Issue of Shares (including Sweat EquityShares) to employees of the Companyunder any Scheme.
3) Voting rights which are not directly exercisedby the employees in respect of shares for thesubscription / purchase of which loan wasgiven by the Company (as there is no schemepursuant to which such persons can beneficiallyhold shares as envisaged under section 67(3)(c) of the Companies Act, 2013).
4) There are no material changes andcommitments affecting the financial position ofyour Company, which have occurred betweenthe end of FY25 and the date of this report.
5) There has been no change in the nature ofbusiness of your Company.
6) There was no application made and proceedinginitiated / pending by any Financial and/orOperational Creditors against your Companyunder the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
7) The Company has not made any one-timesettlement for loans taken from the Banks orFinancial Institutions, and hence the details ofdifference between amount of the valuationdone at the time of one-time settlement andthe valuation done while taking loan from theBanks or Financial Institutions along with thereasons thereof is not applicable.
8) There was no revision of financial statementsand Board’s Report of your Company duringthe year under review.
The Board of Directors places on record its sincereappreciation for the dedicated services renderedby the employees of the Company at all levels andthe constructive cooperation extended by them.Your Directors would like to express their gratefulappreciation for the assistance and support by allShareholders, Government Authorities, Auditors,Financial Institutions, Customers, Employees,Suppliers, other business associates and variousother stakeholders.
By order of the Board of Directors
Mulesh M. Savla
Chairman
Mumbai / August 05, 2025 DIN: 07474847