Your Directors are pleased to present the 89th Annual Report on business and operations along with the AuditedFinancial Statements of the Company for the financial year ended 31st March 2026.
ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
Global macroeconomic conditions in 2026 indicate a steady but moderate growth environment, reflecting stabilitydespite ongoing structural challenges. Global GDP growth is estimated at 2.8% in 2025 and is projected to ease slightlyto 2.7% in 2026, remaining below the pre-pandemic average of 3.2%. Economic activity continues to be supportedby stable labour markets, easing monetary conditions, and steady consumer demand, although policy uncertainty,geopolitical tensions, and trade frictions continue to affect overall momentum. Growth across advanced economies isexpected to remain modest, with the United States, Europe, and Japan maintaining stable expansion supported by fiscaland monetary measures. (Source: UN WESP 2026, Executive Summary pp. VII-VIII; Chapter I p.5)
Emerging and developing economies are expected to maintain relatively stronger growth, supported by domestic demandand targeted policy measures. However, growth is projected to ease slightly, reflecting tighter fiscal conditions, high debtlevels, and uneven investment trends. While large economies such as China and India continue to support global growth,many low-income and vulnerable countries face constraints due to limited fiscal space and external financing challenges.Structural issues such as productivity gaps, climate-related disruptions, and uneven access to technology continue toinfluence growth across regions. (Source: UN WESP 2026, Executive Summary pp. VII-IX)
Inflationary pressures have continued to ease globally, with headline inflation declining from 3.4% in 2025 to a projected3.1% in 2026. This decline has been driven by lower energy and food prices, improved supply conditions and gradualstabilization in global markets. However, inflation remains above target levels in several economies, mainly due tocontinued price pressures in services and housing. While many central banks have moved towards monetary easing,policy actions remain careful given ongoing risks from geopolitical developments, supply disruptions and climate-relatedevents that could affect price stability. (Source: UN WESP 2026, Executive Summary pp. XII-XIII)
India continues to remain one of the fastest-growing major economies globally. Growth is estimated at 7.4% in 2025and is projected to ease to 6.6% in 2026, supported by strong domestic consumption and continued public investment.Economic activity is further supported by policy reforms and easing monetary conditions, which are expected to helpnear-term growth. While external risks such as West Asian war induced uncertainty around energy prices and globaltrade uncertainty arising from sanctions and tariff measures imposed by the U.S. administration are cause of concern,India's strong domestic fundamentals, infrastructure investment and demographic profile continue to provide a stablebase for long-term growth. (Source: UN WESP 2026, Executive Summary p. XI)
TOBACCO INDUSTRY
India's tobacco industry continues to hold an important position in the country's agricultural and consumer markets.The India tobacco market reached 821.7 thousand tons in 2025 and is projected to grow to 988.8 thousand tonsby 2034, at a CAGR of 2.08% during 2026-2034. Growth in the market is supported by increasing tobaccoconsumption, rising disposable incomes and wider product availability. India also remains the world's second-largestproducer of tobacco, with annual production of around 1,037 million kilograms across key states such as AndhraPradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana and Bihar, producing a wide range of tobacco varieties fordomestic and export markets. (Source: IMARC India Tobacco Market Report and Tobacco Fact Sheet India 2026)
India's tobacco exports continue to support the country's trade revenues. India is the second-largest exporter oftobacco globally after Brazil and exports tobacco and tobacco products to nearly 200 countries. In FY25, Indiaexported 146,954 tonnes of FCV tobacco valued at US$ 895.9 million (Rs. 7,571 crores). Exports of unmanufacturedtobacco and tobacco products during FY25 reached 364,575.84 tonnes, valued at Rs. 16,728 crores (US$ 1.97billion). Major export destinations include the UAE, Belgium, Indonesia, Egypt, the USA, Turkey, and the Republic ofKorea. In FY26, UAE remained the largest importer of Indian tobacco products at around US$ 134 million of totalexports from India. (Source: IBEF Tobacco Industry and Exports India)
India's position in the global tobacco trade continues to be supported by low production costs and a diversified productportfolio. Along with cigarettes, India has a strong export presence in FCV tobacco, unmanufactured non-FCV tobacco,bidis, hookah tobacco, chewing tobacco and other tobacco products catering to different international markets. InFY2026, India exported 19,768.09 tonnes of unmanufactured non-FCV tobacco valued at US$ 75.30 million (Rs.642.73 crores). The exports of unmanufactured tobacco and tobacco products during FY26, were 66,984.61 tonnesvalued at US$ 374.9 million (Rs. 3,201 crore). India continues to export tobacco products to nearly 200 countries,supported by steady global demand and expanding market reach. (Source: IBEF Tobacco Industry and Exports India)
The tobacco sector continues to be a major contributor to employment and economic activity in India. The industryprovides direct and indirect employment to around 45.7 million people, with nearly 70% engaged in agriculturalactivities. The sector contributes an estimated Rs. 18 lakh crores to the Indian economy and generates annual taxrevenues of more than Rs. 76,000 crores. Tobacco exports earn India over Rs. 17,000 crores annually, with FCV
tobacco contributing nearly 70% of leaf exports. Tobacco cultivation also remains important for semi-arid and rain-fedregions where alternative crops may not provide similar income opportunities. (Source: Tobacco Fact Sheet India 2026)
Despite its economic contribution, the tobacco industry continues to face challenges due to high taxation, healthconcerns, and increasing illicit trade. Legal cigarettes account for only about 10% of overall tobacco consumptionbut contribute nearly 80% of tobacco tax revenues. India is among the world's largest illegal cigarette markets, withillicit cigarettes accounting for about 26.1% of the total cigarette market. Illicit cigarettes are estimated to amount tonearly one-third of legal cigarette volumes, resulting in an annual revenue loss of around Rs. 23,000 crores to thegovernment. High taxes and price differences between legal and illegal products continue to support the growth ofillicit trade. (Source: Tobacco Fact Sheet India 2026)
CONSUMER INDUSTRY
India's consumer sector continues to play an important role in the country's economic growth. Supported by favourabledemographics, rising incomes, increasing urbanisation and wider digital adoption, both sectors continue to expandsteadily. Changes in consumer preferences, along with policy support are shaping growth across categories. Demandis becoming more diversified, with consumers seeking convenience, quality and value, while businesses are adaptingtheir strategies to align with these trends. (Source: IBEF FMCG Report, March 2026, Page 1)
The Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector continues to expand, with the market valued at approximately USD245 billion in 2024 and projected to reach nearly USD 1.1 trillion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of about 17.3%. Thesector is expected to deliver revenue growth of 6-8% in FY26, supported by rising urban demand and steady ruralconsumption. Digital adoption remains a key driver, with over 270 million online shoppers in 2024 and increasinguse of digital platforms for consumption. E-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels continue to expand, while quickcommerce is growing at a CAGR of 70-80%, improving access and delivery timelines across cities. Companies arealso investing in supply chain improvements, data analytics, and product innovation to meet evolving demand patterns.(Source: IBEF Retail Report, November 2025, Page 4; KPMG FMCG Report, Q3FY26)
At the same time, companies are adapting to evolving challenges. Managing costs and ensuring efficient supplychains remain key priorities amid inflationary pressures and competitive intensity. Food inflation trends have remainedvolatile, with marginal deflation observed in late 2025. Consumer preferences are shifting toward health, sustainability,and premium products, with premium FMCG categories gaining traction, particularly in rural markets. Companiesare responding by investing in sustainable practices, cleaner ingredients, and technology-led product development toremain aligned with consumer expectations. (Source: KPMG FMCG Report, Q3FY26)
As the market continues to evolve, India's consumer sector is expected to benefit from steady demand, digital growth,and supportive policy measures. Continued focus on product innovation, efficient operations, and customer engagementwill remain important for sustaining growth and creating long-term value for stakeholders.
SEGMENTWISE PERFORMANCE IN 2025-26Cigarettes
During the year under report, the Company recorded stable performance, supported by continued consumer demandin the first half of the year and disciplined execution across markets. The Company strengthened its presence in selectemerging markets through calibrated brand investments, filling up portfolio gaps, measured pricing actions and focusedexecution across the value chain.
The performance of the cigarettes business, during the year, was led by the Company's key brands, Four Square and Stellar,which continued to enhance their relevance across consumer segments. Four Square consolidated its position, supported bythe performance of its variants, including the Four Square Crush range. Stellar sustained its momentum, with continued focuson higher growth segments and modern retail formats. Legacy brands such as Cavanders and North Pole also recordedsteady performance, supported by initiatives aimed at enhancing consumer relevance within permissible frameworks.
However, the change in the indirect tax structure for cigarettes brought about by the Government with effect from1st February 2026 which has resulted in steep increase in overall incidence of tax, has posed major challenges for theindustry in the future, particularly impacting consumer affordability across the segments and price points. The prevalenceof illicit and contraband products continued to remain a significant structural concern for the industry.
Also, the operating environment for the cigarettes business remains subject to regulatory and taxation considerations. TheCompany continues to closely monitor developments in the regulatory landscape and remains focused on prudent costmanagement, disciplined execution and compliance. The Company's strategy will continue to emphasise strengtheningits core brand portfolio, pursuing selective innovation aligned with consumer preferences which already exist and tothose which are emerging, and optimising its sales and distribution capabilities. These efforts are expected to support theCompany's ability to operate effectively in a dynamic market environment and create long term value for stakeholders.
Confectionary Products
During the financial year 2025-26, the Company's Confectionery Products division, though relatively small in size, achievedrobust growth, recording a 31% increase in operating profit, a 26% rise in volume, and a 15% uplift in gross sales value
compared to the previous year. This impressive performance was primarily driven by the hard-boiled segment, notablywith the successful launch of our new brand, "Lemon Chaskaa" The brand has gained significant traction, now availablein approximately 450,000 outlets across Pan India.
Looking ahead, the Company is poised to strengthen its digital marketing presence and introduce new productvariants in the coming year.
The following table shows the status of exports for different products during the year under report:
Commodity/Product
2025-26
2024-25
Value (Rs. in crores)
Unmanufactured Tobacco/ CompositeLeaf Blend
1,945
2,010
Cigarettes
50
68
Cut tobacco
19
42
Total
2,014
2,120
During the year under review, the Company strengthened its emphasis on Burley tobacco production to cater to abroader range of customers. This strategy facilitated additional business opportunities, expanded market reach, andsupported continued revenue growth. Moreover, the successful implementation of the Integrated Production System(IPS) in the HDBRG 2025 crop enabled the Company to secure new business while reinforcing its commitmentto quality and regulatory compliance. The Company has also identified new crop varieties-Sun-Cured Virginia,Kurnool Rustica, Lanka, and Lalchoupadia-to further diversify its existing portfolio.
A strategic and methodical approach, incorporating ongoing procurement monitoring, optimal tobacco utilization,expedited processing and improved yield performance, has resulted in marked advances in supply chain efficiency.Collectively, these initiatives have contributed significant value by enabling enhanced cost management and elevatingoverall operational effectiveness.
HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
Your Company's Human Resource strategy continues to be guided by its "People First" philosophy, with a sustainedfocus on strengthening organizational capability, enhancing employee experience, and fostering a safe, inclusiveand future ready workplace aligned with business priorities. During the year, your Company advanced its peopletransformation journey through the implementation of the latest Oracle Cloud HCM platform, enabling strongerdigital integration, workforce transparency and data driven people decisions. Curated learning interventions wereconducted to upskill the workforce on emerging technologies, strengthening digital awareness and readinessfor evolving roles. The Company maintained its emphasis on leadership development, succession planning andinternal talent mobility, supporting career progression and leadership depth. Focused initiatives on diversity, equityand inclusion, alongside enhanced health, safety and wellness interventions, reinforced employee well-being andorganizational resilience. Your Company was certified as a Great Place to Work® for the 8th consecutive year,instilling a strong sense of pride and reaffirming its high trust culture. Leadership remained closely connected withemployees through increased dialogue, engagement and accessibility, fostering trust and pride while strengtheningthe organization's ability to respond with agility to change and growth.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT)
Your Company continued to leverage technology as a strategic enabler to strengthen enterprise governance, enhanceworkforce productivity and support compliant business growth. During the year, focused investments were made inintroducing AI productivity platforms, improving information security posture and enhancing efficiency across criticaloperational and compliance processes.
The enterprise application landscape has been further enhanced through select process improvements in ERP, enablingalignment with evolving tax and regulatory frameworks. There has been a continued emphasis on digitization andgovernance-led visibility across the organization. IT infrastructure capabilities have been further strengthened tosupport growing digital adoption and user experience expectations. Network capacity across locations has beenenhanced, improving reliability and performance for enterprise applications.
Your Company has also made steady progress in strengthening its information security framework. Security controlsacross core data platforms have been enhanced, alongside the rollout of centralized security governance dashboardsto improve monitoring and oversight. Advanced password-less identity-based authentication mechanisms have beenimplemented across key enterprise applications to further strengthen access security. These initiatives, coupled withenhanced email security measures, have significantly improved the overall cyber resilience of the organization.
Your Company continues to focus on responsible and secure adoption of emerging technologies. Progress has beenmade towards enterprise-wide AI enablement to enhance productivity using secure enterprise grade AI platform.Strong IT governance remains a cornerstone of the technology strategy, as reflected in the successful re-certification
of the Information Security Management System to upgraded version ISO 27001:2022, reaffirming the Company'scontinued commitment towards data security, risk management, and compliance.
Your Company continues to enjoy the highest rating of 'CRISIL A1 ' for short term debt program, 'CRISIL AA /Stable' for long term loan. With these ratings in place, your Company can raise funds (if needed) at most competitiveterms. Following the principles of liquidity, safety and tax efficient returns, your Company has been deploying itslong term surplus funds primarily in debt-oriented schemes of reputed mutual funds. Also, the Company continuedto park its temporary surpluses in liquid/short-term schemes of various mutual funds.
Continuing operations
Profit before Depreciation and Tax from continuing operations
203,719
156,175
Less: Depreciation and amortization
11,671
11,970
Profit before tax from continuing operations
192,048
144,205
Less: Provision for tax
- current tax
39,631
30,673
- deferred tax
1,739
1,154
Profit after tax for the year from continuing operations
150,678
112,378
Discontinued operation
(i) Profit /(loss) before tax from discontinued operation
94
(10,768)
(ii) Tax (expense)/ benefit from discontinued operation
(24)
2,710
Profit/(loss) for the year from discontinued operation
70
(8058)
Profit for the year
150,748
104,320
Add: Other comprehensive income/(loss)-net of tax
52
85
Total Comprehensive Income
150,800
104,405
During the year, the gross sales value registered a growth of 32.80 % by reaching the level of Rs.9119.02 crores fromRs.6866.64 crores last year. Similarly, the profit after tax is Rs.1507.48 crores as compared to Rs.1043.20 crores last year.(The figures of revenue for the year ended 31st March 2026 are not comparable with the previous year due to revisionof indirect tax structure on cigarettes effective from 1st February 2026.)
Your Directors are pleased to recommend the final dividend of 1650% i.e. Rs.33/- per equity share of face valueof Rs.2/- each over and above the interim dividend of Rs.17 per share paid in November 2025. The proposeddividend will absorb Rs.514.74 crores. No amount proposed to be transferred to the general reserves.
Your Company has not accepted any deposits, covered under Chapter V of the Companies Act, 2013 and hence, nodetails pursuant to Rules 8(v) and 8(vi) of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 are required to be reported.
During the year under review, the Authorised Share Capital of the Company has been increased from Rs. 25,00,00,000/-(Rupees Twenty-Five Crore) divided into 12,20,00,000 (Twelve Crore Twenty Lakh) Equity Shares of Rs. 2/- (Rupees Two)each and 60,000 (Sixty Thousand) Preference Shares of Rs. 100/- (Rupees One Hundred) each to Rs. 50,00,00,000/-(Rupees Fifty Crore) divided into 24,70,00,000 (Twenty-Four Crore Seventy Lakh) Equity Shares of Rs. 2/- (RupeesTwo) each and 60,000 (Sixty Thousand) Preference Shares of Rs. 100/- (Rupees One Hundred) each, by creation ofadditional 12,50,00,000 (Twelve Crore Fifty Lakh) Equity Shares of Rs. 2/- (Rupees Two) each, ranking pari-passu withthe existing Equity Shares.
The Board of Directors of the Company, at its meeting held on 4th August 2025, had approved issuance of BonusEquity Shares in the proportion of 2:1, i.e. 2 (Two) new fully paid-up Equity Shares of Rs. 2/- each for every 1 (One)existing fully paid-up Equity Share of Rs. 2/- each, by capitalizing a sum of Rs. 20,79,75,680/- (Rupees TwentyCrore Seventy-Nine Lakh Seventy-Five Thousand Six Hundred and Eighty only) out of the amounts standing to thecredit of the General reserves and/or Retained earnings of the Company as per the Audited Financial Statement ofthe Company for the financial year ended 31st March 2025, which was subsequently approved by the Shareholdersat the 88th Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 4th September 2025.
Accordingly, the Board of Directors of the Company, at its meeting held on 17th September 2025, approved the allotmentof 10,39,87,840 (Ten Crore Thirty-Nine Lakh Eighty-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty) Equity Shares of Rs. 2/- (RupeesTwo) each as fully paid-up Bonus Equity Shares to all the eligible members of the Company as on the Record Date and theBonus Equity Shares so allotted rank pari-passu, in all respects, with the existing Equity Shares of the Company.
Consequent to the aforesaid allotment, the paid-up share capital of the Company has increased to Rs. 31,19,63,520/-(Rupees Thirty-One Crore Nineteen Lakh Sixty-Three Thousand Five Hundred Twenty), divided into 15,59,81,760 (FifteenCrore Fifty-Nine Lakh Eighty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty) fully paid-up Equity Shares of Rs. 2/- (Rupees Two) each.The aforesaid Bonus Equity Shares were credited to the respective demat account of the eligible members as on theRecord Date. In the case of the eligible members holding Equity Shares in physical form, the Bonus Equity shares havebeen credited to a separate demat suspense account namely "Godfrey Phillips India Limited-Bonus Suspense Account" inaccordance with the requirements of the SEBI (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018 and onlyupon submission of the requisite documents, such Bonus Equity Shares will be credited to their respective demat account.
ANNUAL RETURN
As required under Section 134(3)(a) and section 92(3) of the Companies Act, 2013, the Annual Returnas on 31st March 2026 has been uploaded on the Company's website and the same can be accessed athttps://godfreyphillips.co.in/sustainabililty/annual-return.
SUBSIDIARIES, ASSOCIATES AND JOINT VENTURES
As on 31st March 2026, your Company had six operating subsidiaries, two associate companies and acontrolled entity. The basic details of these companies form part of the Annual Return as on 31st March 2026,which can be accessed through the link given above.
Form AOC-1 containing the salient features of financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries and associatesis attached as 'An note 47 of the consolidated financial statements shows the share of
each subsidiary, associate, and controlled entity in the consolidated net assets and profits of the Company.The audited financial statements of these entities will be available for inspection during business hours at theRegistered Office of the Company.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with Indian Accounting Standard (IndAS-110)-Consolidated Financial Statements, Group Accountsform part of this Annual Report. The Group Accounts have been prepared based on financial statements receivedfrom the subsidiary, associate and controlled entities, as approved by their respective Boards.
INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS
Your Company has established a robust system of internal controls including financial controls, commensurate withits size and nature of its operations. These controls ensure that transactions are properly recorded, authorised andreported, while also safeguarding assets against loss arising from wastage, unauthorized use or disposal.
The internal control systems are supplemented by well documented policies, guidelines and procedures which are inline with the internal financial control framework requirements. There is an extensive programme of internal audit bya firm of chartered accountants followed by periodic management reviews.
The Audit Committee actively reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal control systems and suggestsimprovements to strengthen the same.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR)
During the year under review, the Company continued to strengthen its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) with a focused approach towards environmental sustainability, conservation of natural resources, watermanagement, access to safe drinking water, preventive healthcare and support for good agricultural practices.
In water-stressed and rain shadow regions of Andhra Pradesh, the Company further scaled its water conservationinitiatives. During the year, 13 new check-dams were constructed, taking the total number to nearly 60. These structurescontinue to serve as a reliable source of irrigation, enabling marginalised tobacco farmers to cultivate a secondarycrop while also supporting groundwater recharge. In addition, volumetric analysis of 43 existing check-dams builtby us was undertaken to assess actual water storage capacity, which indicated that over 2,72,000 kilolitres of waterwere conserved during the year, directly benefiting farming communities and contributing to ecological balance. Tofurther enhance water conservation capacity, desiltation activities were carried out at 16 sites in the tobacco growingregion, improving storage potential of water bodies while also providing farmers with nutrient-rich soil for agriculturaluse. The Company also undertook rejuvenation and improvement of 2 large natural water tanks, benefiting thousandsof community members and supporting local ecosystems. Further expanding its water conservation efforts to newgeographies, the Company undertook the construction of 3 rainwater harvesting structures in the water-stressed regionof Guldhar, Ghaziabad. These structures are aimed at enhancing groundwater recharge, improving water availabilityand supporting long-term ecological sustainability in areas surrounding the Company's manufacturing operations. The
Company also conducted multiple community awareness drives and facilitated the formation of water user groups toensure effective utilisation, ownership, and long-term maintenance of created assets.
In line with its ESG commitment to ensure access to safe drinking water, the Company installed 20 new RO water plantsequipped with borewell recharge systems and wastewater management provisions, taking the total number of suchinstallations to over 80 across its areas of operation. These initiatives continue to address challenges related to drinkingwater quality and availability in rural communities.
To support farmer livelihoods, the Company constructed 122 community agri-sheds during the year. These structuresprovide safe storage for multiple agricultural produce and shelter for livestock, particularly during adverse weatherconditions, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and improving income stability.
The Company continued its efforts towards environmental sustainability through the maintenance of 2 biodiversityparks, with 2 parks already handed over to local communities after achieving self-sustenance. These parks contributeto ecological restoration, support native biodiversity, and create green spaces for community use.
Recognising the importance of preventive healthcare, the Company expanded its health screening initiative for peoplein the low-income segment, Swasth Pehal 2.0, through deployment of mobile medical units across multiple locations.The programme covered over 100 health parameters, including blood-based diagnostics, non-invasive screening usingspecialised equipment, and eye testing. During the year, over 6,000 beneficiaries across nearly 200 locations werecovered under this initiative, enabling early detection of health issues and promoting awareness on preventive care.The CSR efforts of the Company are overseen by the CSR Committee of the Board which is constituted in accordancewith Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014and is led by Dr. Bina Modi, Chairperson and Managing Director. The composition, terms of reference, and details ofthe Committee's meetings are provided in the Corporate Governance Report. A brief outline of the CSR Policy, overviewof activities undertaken, the amount spent/unspent, reasons for any unspent amount, executive summary of ImpactAssessment reports and the Committee's composition are disclosed in 'Annexure - 2' to this Report.
Based on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, Mr. Sumant Bharadwaj was re-appointedas an Independent Director of the Company for the second term of five consecutive years w.e.f. 13th February 2026, bythe Board of Directors at its meeting held on 15th May 2025, which appointment was subsequently approved by theshareholders at the 88th Annual General Meeting held on 4th September 2025.
Based on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, Mr. Paul Norman Janelle was appointedas a Non-Executive Non-Independent Director of the Company with effect from 16th May 2025, by the Board of Directorsin its meeting held on 15th May 2025, which appointment was subsequently approved by the Shareholders by way ofPostal Ballot on 28th June 2025.
Based on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, Mr. Marco Mariotti was appointed asa Non-Executive Non-Independent Director of the Company with effect from 1st February 2026, by the Board of Directorsin its meeting held on 30th January 2026, which appointment was subsequently approved by the Shareholders by way ofPostal Ballot on 12th March 2026.
Mr. Atul Kumar Gupta ceased to be the Director of the Company on completion of his term as an Independent Directorw.e.f. closure of business hours on 19th June 2025.
The Independent Directors of your Company have confirmed that:
(a) they meet the criteria of Independence as prescribed under Section 149 of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation16 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (SEBI Listing Regulations'); and
(b) they are not aware of any circumstance or situation which could impair or impact their ability to discharge duties withan objective independent judgement and without any external influence.
Further, in the opinion of the Board, the Independent Directors fulfill the conditions prescribed under the SEBI ListingRegulations and are competent, experienced, proficient and possess necessary expertise and integrity to discharge theirduties and functions as Independent Directors and are independent of the management of the Company.
Details pertaining to the manner of evaluation of the Board, its committees and individual Directors includingChairperson have been carried out, form part of Corporate Governance Report.
Dr. Bina Modi, Chairperson and Managing Director, Ms. Charu Modi, Executive Director, Mr. Sharad Aggarwal,Whole-time Director, Mr. Vishal Dhariwal, Chief Financial Officer and Mr. Pumit Kumar Chellaramani, CompanySecretary of the Company are considered to be Key Managerial Personnel of the Company as on 31st March 2026as per the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules made thereunder.
BOARD MEETINGS
During the financial year 2025-26, the Board of Directors met 5 (five) times. Details of the meetings of the Board heldduring the year form part of the Corporate Governance Report.
AUDIT COMMITTEE
The composition, functions and details of the meetings of the Audit Committee held during the year, form part of theCorporate Governance Report.
RISK MANAGEMENT
Your Company considers that risk is an integral part of its business and therefore, it takes proper steps to manageall risks in a proactive and efficient manner. The Company management periodically assesses risks in the internaland external environment and incorporates suitable risk treatment processes in its strategy and business andoperating plans. The details of practices being followed by the Company in this regard, form part of the CorporateGovernance Report.
There are no risks which, in the opinion of the Board, threaten the very existence of your Company. However, someof the challenges faced by it have been dealt with under Management Discussion and Analysis which forms partof this Report. Your Company has a Risk Management Policy in place and is available on the Company's websiteat https://godfrevphillips.co.in/sustainabililtv/policies. The Risk Management Committee reviews the Policy, itseffectiveness and adequacy in periodic manner.
Details regarding constitution of Risk Management Committee and its role and responsibilities, form part of theCorporate Governance Report.
ENVIRONMENT, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG) COMMITTEE
The Company has integrated sustainability into its operational practices. The Board has established a dedicatedcommittee to oversee progress in this area, and a separate Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report offersdetailed information on these initiatives.
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Pursuant to the requirement under Section 134(3)(c) of the Companies Act, 2013 (the 'Act'), the Directors, to the bestof their knowledge, confirm that:
(i) In the preparation of the Annual Accounts, the applicable Accounting Standards have been followed alongwith proper explanation relating to material departures, if any;
(ii) Appropriate accounting policies have been applied consistently and judgements and estimates that arereasonable and prudent have been made so as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of theCompany at the end of the financial year and of the profit of the Company for the period;
(iii) Proper and sufficient care has been taken for maintenance of adequate accounting records in accordancewith the provisions of the Act for safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and detectingfraud and other irregularities;
(iv) The Annual Accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis;
(v) The internal financial controls to be followed by the Company have been laid down and such internalfinancial controls are adequate and are operating effectively; and
(vi) Proper systems have been devised to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and thatsuch systems are adequate and are operating effectively.
The above statements were also noted by the Audit Committee at its meeting held on 15th May 2026.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Form AOC-2 containing particulars of contracts or arrangements entered into by the Company with related partiesreferred in Section 188(1) of the Companies Act, 2013 is attached as 'Annexure - 3'.
Details of related party transactions and related disclosures are given in the notes to the financial statements.
PARTICULARS OF LOANS, GUARANTEES OR INVESTMENTS
The aforesaid details are provided in the financial statements of the Company forming part of the Annual Report.Please refer to Note 52 of the standalone financial statements.
WHISTLE BLOWER POLICY/VIGIL MECHANISM
Details of Whistle Blower Policy/Vigil Mechanism form part of the Corporate Governance Report.
NOMINATION AND REMUNERATION POLICY
The appointment and remuneration of the Directors is recommended by the Nomination and Remuneration Committeeand approved by the Board, subject to approval of the shareholders.
The remuneration payable to the Directors is decided keeping into consideration long term goals of the Companyapart from the individual performance expected from them in pursuit of the overall objectives of the Company.
The remuneration of the Executive Directors including Managing Director and Whole-time Director, may consist ofboth fixed compensation (which may be subject to annual increments) & variable compensation and shall be paidas salary, commission, performance bonus, perquisites and fringe benefits, as may be approved by the Board andwithin the overall limits as may be approved by the shareholders.
In accordance with the provisions of the Articles of Association of the Company and the Companies Act, 2013,Non-executive Directors including Independent Directors, of the Company who are not drawing any remunerationare entitled for the sitting fee (presently fixed at Rs. 1,00,000 per meeting) for attending any meeting of the Boardor of any Committee thereof.
The remuneration payable to the Directors shall be governed by the ceiling limits specified under section 197 of theCompanies Act, 2013 and shareholders' approval taken from time to time.
The remuneration policy for other senior management employees including key managerial personnel aims atattracting, retaining and motivating high calibre talent and ensures equity, fairness and consistency in rewarding theemployees. The remuneration to management grade employees involves a blend of fixed and variable componentwith performance forming the core. The components of total remuneration vary for different employee grades and aregoverned by industry practices, qualifications and experience of the employees, responsibilities handled by them,their potentials, etc. Remuneration of senior management employees is also being looked at by the Nomination andRemuneration Committee.
The Nomination and Remuneration Policy of the Company is available on the Company's website athttps://godfreyphillips.co.in/sustainabililty/policies. There is no change in the Nomination and Remunerationpolicy of the Company during the year.
BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
As mandated by the SEBI Listing Regulations, the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report ("BRSR") hasbeen included separately, as part of the Annual Report. An independent Assurance Report on the BRSR Core for thefinancial year 2025-26 from S.R. Batliboi & Co LLP is also included separately and forms part of the Annual Report.
UNCLAIMED SHARES
Status of the unclaimed shares as on 31st March 2026 has been mentioned in the Corporate Governance Report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The Company is committed to maximise the value for its stakeholders by adopting the principles of good CorporateGovernance in line with the provisions of law and particularly those stipulated in the SEBI Listing Regulations. TheCompany's objective and that of its management and employees is to manufacture and market its products in a wayso as to create value that can be sustained over the long term for consumers, shareholders, employees, businesspartners and the national economy in general.
Certificate from the statutory auditors of the Company regarding compliance of the conditions of CorporateGovernance as stipulated in the SEBI Listing Regulations, is enclosed.
Certificate from Dr. Bina Modi, Chairperson and Managing Director as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Mr.Vishal Dhariwal, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in relation to the financial statements for the year along with declarationby the CEO regarding compliance with the code of business conduct of the Company by the Directors and the membersof the senior management team of the Company during the year, were submitted to and taken note of by the Board.
STATUTORY AUDITORS
In compliance with the provisions of Section 139 and other applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013and the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, S. R. Batliboi & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants, (FRN 301003E/E300005) were re-appointed as the Statutory Auditors for another term of five (5) consecutive years until the dateof conclusion of the 90th Annual General Meeting, by the Shareholders in the 85th Annual General Meeting of theCompany held on 26th August 2022.
Auditors' Report on the financial statements (both standalone as well as consolidated) of the Company forms part ofthe Annual Report and does not contain any qualification, reservation, adverse remark or disclaimer.
In terms of Section 148 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the Companies (Cost Records and Audit) Rules, 2014,Cost Audit & maintenance of Cost Records were not applicable on the Company during Financial Year 2025-26.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204(1) and other applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, read withRegulation 24A of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)Regulations, 2015, the shareholders at the 88th Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 4th September2025 have approved the appointment of M/s Chandrasekaran Associates, Practicing Company Secretaries (FirmRegistration No. P1988DE002500) as the Secretarial Auditors, to conduct the Secretarial Audit of the Company fora period of five consecutive years i.e. from FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30.
The Secretarial Audit Report from M/s Chandrasekaran Associates, Practicing Company Secretaries, for the year underreview is attached as 'Annexure - 4' and does not contain any qualification, reservation, adverse remark or disclaimer.
During the year under report, the Statutory Auditors and Secretarial Auditors have not reported any instance of fraudcommitted against your Company by its officers or employees, to the Audit Committee or the Board, under section143(12) of the Companies Act, 2013.
Pursuant to Clause 9 of Revised Secretarial Standard -1 (SS -1 ), your Company has complied with applicableSecretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India, during the financial year under report.
During the year under report, no significant and material order was passed by the Regulators/Courts that couldimpact the going concern status of the Company and its future operations.
Disclosures pertaining to remuneration and other details as required under Section 197(12) of the Companies Act,2013, read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014are attached as 'Annexure - 5'.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 136(1) of the Companies Act, 2013 and as advised, the statement containingparticulars of employees as required under Section 197(12) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 5(2) of theCompanies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, will be available for inspectionat the Registered Office of the Company during working hours and Members interested in obtaining a copy of thesame may write to the Company Secretary and the same will be furnished on request. Hence, the Annual Report isbeing sent to the Members excluding the aforesaid information.
The particulars prescribed under Section 134(3)(m) of the Companies Act, 2013, read with Rule 8(3) of theCompanies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 are attached as 'Annexure - 6'.
As mandated by the SEBI Listing Regulations, the Board has formulated a dividend distribution policyand the same is attached as 'Annexure - 7' and is also available on the Company's website at:https://godfreyphillips.co.in/sustainabililty/policies
Key Financial Ratios for the financial year 2025-26 with comparatives for the year 2024-25, are disclosed in'Annexure - 8' attached herewith.
As at 31st March 2026, the Company has two Employees Share Purchase Schemes viz: Godfrey Phillips EmployeesShare Purchase Scheme, 2024 ("ESPS 2024") and Godfrey Phillips Employees Share Purchase Scheme, 2023 ("ESPS2023") in place. No change has been made in both these schemes during the year under report. The Company hasreceived a certificate from the Secretarial Auditors that the ESPS 2024 and ESPS 2023 have been implemented inaccordance with the applicable SEBI Guidelines and the resolutions passed by the shareholders. The Certificate willbe placed at the Annual General Meeting for inspection by the Members.
Details of the share based payments made during the year are provided in Note 48 to the financialstatements of the Company. Further, the disclosures pursuant to the SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits andSweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 and Companies Act, 2013 are available on the website of the Company athttps://www.godfrevphillips.co.in/emplovee-benefit-scheme-documents.
The Company has in place a policy on prevention, prohibition and redressal of sexual harassment of women atworkplace in line with the requirements of the above Act.
Under the said policy, an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) has been set up to redress complaints received relatingto sexual harassment. All employees (permanent, contractual, temporary and trainees) are covered under this policy.
During the year under report, no complaint was filed with the Company.
During the year under report, the Company has complied with the provisions of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.
No material changes and commitments have occurred between the end of the financial year and the date of thisreport, affecting the financial position of the Company.
During the year under review, there was no change in the nature of business of the Company.
During the year under report, no application was made against the Company, nor any proceeding is pendingagainst the Company under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Availability of best in the class manufacturing facilities with right blend of technology, vast distribution network,adequate financial resources and motivated manpower backed by 'people first' policy, will continue to facilitateyour Company to drive growth across its various product categories both in domestic and international markets. YourDirectors are confident that the Company will continue to create value for its shareholders and other stakeholders.
Your Directors wish to place on record their sincere appreciation to the Government authorities, Company's bankers,customers, vendors, investors and all other stakeholders for their continued support during the year. Your Directors are alsopleased to record their appreciation for the dedicated services of employees at all levels of operations in the Company.