Your Directors present the Thirty Ninth Annual Report of John Cockerill India Limited ("the Company”) on the business and operations of theCompany, together with the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31,2024.
Particulars
For theyear endedDecember 31,2024
For the ninemonths endedDecember 31,2023
Total Income
39,360.41
67,280.43
Profit before depreciation and amortisation expense, finance costs and tax expense
108.91
3,225.17
Less :
Depreciation and amortisation expense
- 597.15
385.14
Finance costs
228.31
233.01
Profit / (Loss) before Tax
(716.55)
2,607.02
Less : Tax expense :
Current tax
208.21
625.17
Deferred tax
(386.55)
(182.07)
Profit / (Loss) for the year / period
(538.21)
2,163.92
Other comprehensive income / (loss) for the year / period, net of tax
(140.19)
(12.83)
Total comprehensive income / (loss) for the year / period
(678.40)
2,151.09
The performance for the current year is not directly comparable to that of the previous period due to a change in the duration of the financial year.The current year comprises twelve months, whereas the previous period covered nine months.
The Company has faced various challenges during the year under reviewand as a result, it has impacted the performance during the year :
• Starting with a healthy order backlog, the Company focusedon executing its largest project for AMNS and achieved 95%completion by December, 2024.
• Revenue from operations decreased by 42% from ' 666.61crores for the nine months period April to December, 2023 to' 388.73 crores for the year ended December, 2024.
• Operating profit (PBDIT) has decreased by 97% from ' 32.25crores in the nine months period April to December, 2023 to' 1.09 crores for the year ended December, 2024.
• The Company received new orders worth ' 308.8 crores duringthe year.
The global steel industry is projected to see moderate growth between2025 and 2030. According to Bronk & Company, global steel demand isexpected to rise from 1.8 billion tons in 2020 to approximately 2.0 billiontons by 2030, reflecting an average annual growth rate of about 1.06%.This growth will be driven primarily by developing countries, particularlyIndia and regions in Africa, undergoing rapid industrialization. In contrast,China's steel demand is anticipated to stabilize, moving away from itsprior exponential growth.
In North America, the alloy steel market is projected to grow at acompound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5% from 2025 to 2030, with
revenues increasing from USD 4.83 billion in 2024 to USD 6.05 billionby 2030.
Overall, the global steel market was valued at USD 878.2 billion in 2023and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.9% from 2024to 2030. However,the industry faces challenges such as weak demand from China, whichcould lead to lower global iron and steel prices in the coming years.Structural pressures in China's housing market, including demographicchanges, are expected to reduce the demand for additional housingand, consequently, steel consumption.
By 2030, the global steel industry is expected to make significantstrides toward sustainable growth. As green steel technologies mature,the production of low-carbon steel is likely to increase as a share oftotal global output. While challenges related to cost and infrastructureremain, the industry's sustainability transition will be driven by:
• Innovation in steelmaking technologies (e.g., hydrogen-basedprocesses, electrification).
• Increasing demand for green products.
• Government support for decarbonization and green steelproduction incentives.
In conclusion, the shift toward green steel is not just a step towardsustainability but a crucial factor in driving long-term growth forthe global steel industry. As industries and countries committo reducing their carbon footprints, the demand for green steelwill play a pivotal role in achieving climate goals while fosteringeconomic growth.
In summary, while moderate growth is anticipated in the global steelindustry from 2025 to 2030, regional variations and market dynamicswill significantly influence the industry's trajectory.
India's steel industry is set for substantial growth between 2025 and2030, with projections indicating that production capacity will rise fromapproximately 180 million metric tons to over 300 million metric tons by2030. This expansion is fueled by strong domestic demand, particularlyfrom infrastructure development and a growing economy.
• Government Initiatives: The Indian government is activelysupporting the steel sector through various measures, includingsignificant investments in infrastructure and incentives foradopting sustainable practices. The Ministry of Steel hasrequested ' 150 billion (about $1.74 billion) from the federalbudget to encourage the production of low-carbon steel, aimingto reduce emissions and promote green technologies.
• Capacity Expansion: Major steel producers are investing incapacity expansion and modernization. For instance, JSW Steel'sacquisition of NSL Green Steel Recycling in September, 2023underscores the industry's commitment to enhancing productioncapabilities and reducing carbon footprints.
• Sustainability Challenges: While the steel industry is poised forgrowth, it faces challenges related to environmental sustainability.The Global Energy Monitor has raised concerns that theincreasing reliance on coal-powered steelmaking could hinderIndia's net-zero emission goals. Addressing these concerns will becrucial for aligning industry growth with environmental objectives.
• Market Dynamics: The industry also faces challenges from risingimports of cheap steel, which have affected domestic producers'market share and reduced capacity utilization rates. This trendraises concerns about the competitiveness of Indian steelmanufacturers.
In the2024-25 budget, the Indian government allocated significant fundsfor various sectors, including the steel industry. The Finance Ministerannounced $24 billion for job initiatives over the next five years and $32billion for rural development in the current year. While these measuresare not specifically targeted at the steel sector, they are expected tostimulate economic growth and infrastructure development, indirectlybenefiting steel demand.
Additionally, the steel ministry's request for ' 150 billion to incentivizelow-carbon steel production highlights the strategic focus onsustainability within the industry. This initiative aligns with India's broaderenvironmental goals.
• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 2.0: The governmentis developing PLI 2.0 to further enhance steel productioncapabilities. This initiative aims to promote the use of scrap steeland the adoption of advanced technologies, including artificialintelligence, to boost output and reduce carbon emissions. Thescheme is expected to contribute to achieving India's target ofincreasing steel manufacturing capacity to 300 million metrictons by 2030.
• Investment in Sustainable Steel Production: The Ministry ofSteel has requested ' 150 billion from the federal budget toincentivize low-carbon steel production. This funding will supportthe adoption of green technologies and practices, aligning withIndia's environmental goals.
• Addressing Import Concerns: The government is consideringmeasures to curb the surge in steel imports, particularly fromcountries like China and Vietnam, which have impacted domesticproducers. The Indian Steel Association has raised concernsabout the dumping of steel products and is advocating for strongactions to protect the domestic market.
• Raw Material Supply and Technological Advancements: Effortsare being made to ensure a steady supply of raw materials for thesteel sector. The government is also promoting the use of scrapsteel and encouraging the adoption of new technologies toimprove production efficiency and sustainability.
These initiatives underscore the government's commitmentto supporting the steel industry's growth, sustainability, andcompetitiveness in the global market. In conclusion, India's steelindustry is on track for significant growth from 2025 to 2030, drivenby government initiatives, capacity expansion, and favourable marketconditions. However, addressing sustainability challenges and marketdynamics will be essential to ensure that growth is both robust andenvironmentally responsible.
The Company is a cornerstone of John Cockerill Industry's global metalsstrategy, seamlessly integrating into its product and growth roadmap. Asan ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 certified engineering companyand a global center of excellence for cold rolling mill complexes, we leadthe world in reversible cold rolling mill technology. Our expertise spansprocessing lines, rolling mills, thermal and chemical treatment processes,and auxiliary steel treatment equipment.
Strategically positioned in India, we serve as a crucial hub for expandingJohn Cockerill Industry's presence in South-East Asia. Our geographicadvantage, combined with dedicated business development resourcesacross key regional markets, enables us to actively support investmentprojects worldwide — whether through standalone proposals orcollaborations with other John Cockerill Group entities.
Beyond our role in engineering, sourcing, and manufacturing, weplay a vital part in bringing John Cockerill Industry's latest innovationsto market. As breakthrough technologies from the Group's R&Dpipeline reach maturity, we drive their adoption in India and beyond.These include revolutionary advancements in metals coating anddecarbonization of thermal processes in steel production, setting newindustry standards for sustainability and efficiency.
John Cockerill Industry, our global parent entity, is at the forefront oftechnological innovation in steel and non-ferrous industries. Withexpertise in designing, supplying, and modernizing cold rolling mills,processing lines, and surface treatment installations, it providescutting-edge solutions that enhance production efficiency andsustainability.
By combining global expertise with localized excellence, the Companyis uniquely positioned to drive innovation, expand market reach, andenhance service and automation capabilities. Our role in supporting theGroup's advanced technological solutions ensures that we continue tolead in the industry while contributing to a more sustainable future formetals production.
As informed in the last Annual Report, for the purpose of consolidatingthe accounts of the Company with its parent Company outside India,the Company revised the financial year from April - March to January -
December. The financial year of the Company starts from January 1 andends on December 31 of every year.
Apart from this, there have been no material changes and commitmentsaffecting the financial position of the Company which have occurredbetween the end of the financial year to which the financial statementsrelated to and date of this report. There has been no change in thenature of business of the Company.
In view of the loss for the year under review and the need to conserveresources during the difficult times, the Directors have, with regret, decidednot to recommend any dividend for the year ended December 31, 2024.The Company has not transferred any amount to General Reserve.
The Board of Directors, at its meeting held on February 20, 2025, hasapproved a Dividend Distribution Policy. The Dividend Distribution Policyis available on the website of the Company at https://johncockerillindia.com/investors/dividend-distribution-policy/
John Cockerill SA, the Holding Company is part of the John CockerillGroup having a presence in sectors like Energy, Defense, Industry,Environment and Services. The Company is a part of the Industry Sectorwithin the John Cockerill Group.
The Company continues to have a close, collaborative relationshipwith customers supported by an extended global network of officesaligned with customer locations. John Cockerill Group invests heavily inR & D activities and investments have been made to support long-termprofitable growth and extend help to the customers in value creation.
The John Cockerill Group has been extremely supportive of itsIndian operations and continues to provide constant support interms of strategy, technology, research and development, systems,manufacturing, project management, human resources, etc.
The Company does not have any Subsidiary, Joint Venture or AssociateCompany as defined in the Companies Act, 2013. Hence, no details areto be provided in Form AOC-1.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 136 of the CompaniesAct, 2013 ("the Act”), the audited financial statements and relatedinformation of the Company are available on the website of theCompany at www.johncockerillindia.com.
During the year under review, there was no change in the AuthorisedShare Capital of the Company. The Authorised Share Capital of theCompany is ' 1,000 lakhs divided into 80,00,000 equity shares of' 10/- each and 2,00,000 Preference Shares of ' 100/- each.
There was no change in the capital structure of the Company during theyear under review.
The details of the share capital as on December 31, 2024 is provided
holnw •
' in lakhs
Authorised Share Capital
1,000.00
Paid up Share Capital
493.78
Listed Capital
During the year under review, the Company has neither issued anyshares (including shares with differential voting rights) nor granted stockoptions or sweat equity.
Both the plants of the Company have undergone Surveillance Auditsand were certified for ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health & SafetyManagement System) and re-certified for ISO 9001:2015 (QualityManagement System).
The Senior Management reviews the Occupational Health & SafetyManagement System performance periodically. Focus on new initiativesinvolving all stakeholders, coupled with management reviews, hashelped the Company to demonstrate further steps towards excellencein Occupational Health & Safety Management System.
There were no outstanding deposits within the meaning of Section 73and 74 of the Act read with the Rules made thereunder at the end ofthe year or the previous financial years / period. The Company did notaccept any deposit during the year under review.
The changes in the composition of the Board of Directors ("Board”) andKey Managerial Personnel of the Company during the year under revieware as under :
As informed during the last year Annual Report, Mr. N. Sundararajan(DIN : 00051040) completed his two consecutive terms of 5 (five)years and hence retired as a Non-Executive Independent Director ofthe Company, effective from the close of working hours of March 31,2024.
The appointment of Ms. Anupama Vaidya (DIN : 02713517) and Ms.Anjali Gupte (DIN 00104884) as Independent Directors on the Boardof the Company for their first term of 5 (five) consecutive years witheffect from April 1, 2024 was approved by the members at the lastAnnual General Meeting ("AGM”) held on May 14, 2024. The Board isof the opinion that Ms. Anupama Vaidya and Ms. Anjali Gupte possessesthe requisite expertise, integrity, experience and proficiency required tofulfil their duties as Independent Directors.
Mr. Nandkumar Dhekne (DIN : 02189370) completed his first term of 5(five) consecutive years as a Non-Executive Independent Director of theCompany on February 6, 2025. The members of the Company approvedthe re-appointment of Mr. Nandkumar Dhekne for the second term of5 (five) consecutive years till February 6, 2030 by way of a specialresolution at the last AGM held on May 14, 2024.
The Board at its meeting held on May 13, 2024 noted the resignationof Mr. Sebastien Roussel (DIN : 09663609) as Non-Executive Non¬Independent Director (designated as Chairman) of the Company onaccount of his change in employment in a joint venture of John Cockerill,with effect from the close of working hours of May 14, 2024.
The Board at its meeting held on May 13, 2024, on the basis of therecommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee("NRC”) appointed Mr. Francois-David Martino (DIN : 10593380) asa Non-Executive Non-Independent Director with the designation asChairman of the Company, liable to retire by rotation, with effect fromMay 15, 2024 subject to the approval of the members. The membersof the Company through Postal Ballot approved the appointment of Mr.Francois-David Martino as a Director of the Company.
Mr. Yves Honhon (DIN : 02268831), Non-Executive Non-IndependentDirector of the Company resigned as a Director of the Companycoinciding with his retirement as Director & Group CFO at John CockerillSA, Holding Company effective from the close of working hours ofAugust 31, 2024. The Board at its meeting held on July 31, 2024, onthe recommendation of NRC, appointed Mr. Frederic Lemaitre (DIN :10475793) as an Non-Executive Non-Independent Director subjectto approval of the members with effect from September 1, 2024. Theappointment of Mr. Frederic Lemaitre was approved by the members ofthe Company through Postal Ballot.
During the year under review, Ms. Roma Balwani (DIN : 00112756)completed her second term of 5 (five) consecutive years and henceretired as an Independent Director of the Company with effectfrom October 28, 2024. Ms. Balwani was initially appointed as aDirector on the Board of the Company on October 28, 2014 andsubsequently re-appointed for her second term commencing fromOctober 28. 2019.
The Board at its meeting held on November 29, 2024 noted theresignation of Mr. Praveen Kadle (DIN : 00016814), IndependentDirector of the Company with effect from the close of working hoursof November 30, 2024. The Board, on the recommendation of theNRC, appointed Mr. Anand Sen (DIN : 00237914) as an AdditionalDirector designated as an Independent Director of the Company witheffect from December 1, 2024. The term of his appointment as anIndependent Director will be for a period of 5 (five) consecutive years.The appointment of Mr. Anand Sen was approved by the members ofthe Company by special resolution through Postal Ballot. Mr. Anand Senpossesses requisite expertise, integrity, experience and proficiency. Interms of the provisions of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, theBoard opines that Mr. Anand Sen holds highest standard of integrityand possesses necessary expertise and experience.
Mr. Francois-David Martino, Mr. Frederic Lemaitre and Mr. Anand Senare not debarred from holding the office of Director on account of anyorder of SEBI or any other such authority. The Company has receivedrequisite notices from a member in writing proposing their appointmentas Directors of the Company.
The Board places on record its deep appreciation of the invaluableservices rendered by Mr. N. Sundararajan, Mr. Sebastien Roussel, Mr.Yves Honhon, Ms. Roma Balwani and Mr. Praveen Kadle during theirtenure as Directors of the Company.
In accordance with the provisions of the Act and the Articles of Associationof the Company, Mr. Francois-David Martino (DIN : 10593380), Non¬Executive Director of the Company is liable to retire by rotation at theensuing AGM of the Company and being eligible, has offered himself forre-appointment. The Board recommends his re-appointment.
Mr. Kiran Rahate, Chief Financial Officer resigned from the services ofthe Company with effect from the close of working hours of September30, 2024. The Board places on record its appreciation for the servicesrendered by Mr. Kiran Rahate during his association with the Company.
The Board at its meeting held on July 31, 2024, on the recommendationof the Audit Committee and NRC has approved the appointment ofMr. Marc Dumont as the Chief Financial Officer and Key ManagerialPersonnel of the Company with effect from October 1, 2024.
Except as stated above, there were no other changes in the Directorsand Key Managerial Personnel of the Company during the year underreview.
As at the end of the year, the following are Key Managerial Personnel ofthe Company as per the provisions of the Act :
• Mr. Michael Kotas Managing Director
• Mr. Marc Dumont Chief Financial Officer
• Mr. Haresh Vala Company Secretary
Detailed description of the details of the number and dates of meetingsheld by the Board and its Committees, attendance of Directors andremuneration paid to them are given separately in the CorporateGovernance Report which forms a part of this Report.
The Company has received the declarations from all the IndependentDirectors of the Company confirming that they meet the criteria ofindependence as prescribed both under the Act and the Securitiesand Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and DisclosureRequirements) Regulations, 2015 ("the Listing Regulations”).
The Board is of the opinion that the Independent Directors of theCompany hold highest standards of integrity and possess necessaryexpertise and experience required to fulfill their duties as IndependentDirectors. Further, the Independent Directors of the Company haveconfirmed that they have registered themselves with the databank ofIndependent Directors maintained with the Indian Institute of CorporateAffairs.
As per the provisions of Schedule IV to the Act, the IndependentDirectors of the Company held a separate meeting on July 30, 2024without the presence of the Chairman, Managing Director, other Non¬Independent Directors or any other managerial personnel.
The Board of the Company is highly committed to ensuring transparencyin assessing the performance of Directors. Pursuant to the provisionsof the Act and the Listing Regulations, the annual evaluation of theperformance of the Board, its Committees and the Directors and thegovernance process that support the Board's work was conducted.The results of the evaluation showed a high level of commitment andengagement of Board, its Committees and senior leadership. Theevaluation and its process have been explained in the CorporateGovernance Report, which forms an integral part of this Report.
The Chairman held an individual direct meeting with each IndependentDirector as a part of self-appraisal and peer-group evaluation; theengagement and impact of individual Director was reviewed onparameters such as attendance, knowledge and expertise, inter¬personal relationship, engagement in discussion and decision-makingprocess, actions, etc. The Directors were also asked to provide theirvaluable feedback and suggestions on the overall functioning of theBoard and its Committees and the areas of improvement for a higherdegree of engagement with the management.
The members of the Board of the Company are afforded manyopportunities to familiarise themselves with the Company, itsmanagement and its operations. The details of familiarisationprogrammes for the Directors about their roles, rights and responsibilitiesin the Company, nature of the industry in which the Company operates,business model of the Company and related matters are availableon the Company's website at www.johncockerillindia.com, and alsoreferred to in detail in the Corporate Governance Report.
The Company has in place a Remuneration Policy which provides for awhole gamut of compensation philosophy for rewarding and retainingtalent. The details of the Remuneration Policy are mentioned in theCorporate Governance Report and are also placed on the website ofthe Company at www.johncockerillindia.com
Pursuant to Section 134(5) of the Act, the Board of Directors, to the bestof their knowledge and ability, confirm that :
a. in the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicableaccounting standards have been followed and there are nomaterial departures from the same;
b. they have selected such accounting policies and applied themconsistently and made judgements and estimates that arereasonable and prudent, so as to give a true and fair view of thestate of affairs of the Company as at the end of the year and of theStatement of Profit and Loss and Cash Flow of the Company forthe year ended on that date;
c. they have taken that proper and sufficient care for themaintenance of adequate accounting records in accordancewith the provisions of the Act for safeguarding the assets of theCompany and for preventing and detecting fraud and otherirregularities;
d. the annual accounts have been prepared on a 'going concern'basis;
e. they have laid down internal financial controls to be followedby the Company and that such internal financial controls areadequate and are operating effectively; and
f. they have devised proper systems to ensure compliance withthe provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems are inplace, are adequate and operating effectively.
A calendar of meetings is prepared and circulated in advance to theDirectors.
During the year under review, the Board met 5 (five) times with at leastone meeting every calendar quarter. The intervening gap betweenthe meetings did not exceed 120 days, as prescribed under the Actand Listing Regulations. The details of the Board Meetings and theattendance of the Directors are provided in the Corporate GovernanceReport which forms an integral part of this Report.
The Board has constituted the following Committees in order toeffectively deliberate its duties under the Act and Listing Regulations :
i. Audit Committee
ii. Stakeholders Relationship Committee
iii. Nomination and Remuneration Committee
iv. Corporate Social Responsibility and ESG Committee
v. Risk Management Committee
vi. Committee for Finance and Operations
Details of the Committees in respect of its composition, terms ofreference, meetings held during the year under review and theattendance of each member are furnished in the Corporate Governance
S R B C & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (ICAI Registration No.324982E / E300003) ("SRBC”) were re-appointed as the StatutoryAuditors of the Company by the members at the 37th AGM for a secondterm of 5 (five) consecutive years from the conclusion of the said AGMuntil the conclusion of the 42nd AGM to be held in the year 2028.
The report of the Statutory Auditors does not contain any qualification,reservation or adverse remark or disclaimer. During the year underreview, the Statutory Auditors have not reported any matter underSection 143(12) of the Act, and therefore, no disclosure is requiredunder Section 134(3)(ca) of the Act.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 148 of the Act, the Company isrequired to maintain cost records and accordingly, these have beenmaintained by the Company.
The Board of Directors, on the recommendation of the Audit Committee,appointed M/s. Kishore Bhatia & Associates, Cost Accountants (FirmRegistration No. 000294) as the Cost Auditors of the Company for thefinancial year ending December 31, 2025 and have recommendedtheir remuneration to the members for ratification at the ensuing AGM.Accordingly, a resolution seeking members ratification for the remunerationpayable to the Cost Auditor forms part of the Notice of the ensuing AGM.
The Cost Auditor has furnished the eligibility certificate along with hisconsent to such appointment in terms of the relevant provisions ofthe Act read with the Rules framed thereunder. The Audit Committeehas also received a certificate from the Cost Auditor certifying theirindependence and arm's length relationship with the Company.
During the year under review, the Cost Auditor had not reported anymatter under Section 143(12) of the Act and therefore, no disclosure isrequired under Section 134(3)(ca) of the Act.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Act and the Companies(Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules,2014, M/s. VKM & Associates, Practising Company Secretary, a PeerReviewed Company Secretary firm, was appointed as the SecretarialAuditor for the year ended December 31, 2024. The Secretarial AuditReport in Form MR-3 is annexed as Annexure 1 and forms an integralpart of this Report. The Secretarial Audit Report is self-explanatoryand does not contain any qualification, reservation, adverse remark ordisclaimer. During the year under review, the Secretarial Auditor hadnot reported any matter under Section 143(12) of the Act, therefore nodisclosure is required under Section 134(3)(ca) of the Act.
The Company has undertaken an audit for the year ended December31, 2024 covering all applicable compliances as per applicable SEBIRegulations / circulars / guidelines issued thereunder, pursuant torequirement of the Listing Regulations. The Secretarial ComplianceReport duly issued by M/s. VKM & Associates has been annexed asAnnexure 2 to this Report.
In line with the recent amendments to Listing Regulations, the Boardrecommended the appointment of M/s. VKM & Associates, a PeerReviewed Company Secretary Firm in practice, as the Secretarial Auditorof the Company for the first term of 5 (five) consecutive years startingwith the financial year ending December 31,2025 until the financial yearending on December 31, 2030. Accordingly, a resolution seeking the
approval of the members for the appointment of the Secretarial Auditorfor the first term forms part of the Notice of the ensuing AGM.
The Board has approved the services that the Secretarial Auditor willbe able to provide to the Company in line with the requirements of theListing Regulations.
Before the beginning of each year, an audit plan is rolled out withthe approval of the Company's Audit Committee. The plan is aimedat evaluation of the efficacy and adequacy of internal controlsystems and compliance thereof, robustness of internal processes,policies and accounting procedures and compliance with laws andregulations. Based on the report of internal audit, process ownersundertake corrective action in their respective areas. Significant auditobservations and corrective actions are periodically presented to theAudit Committee of the Board.
During the year under review, the Company has complied with allthe applicable provisions of the Secretarial Standards issued by TheInstitute of Company Secretaries of India.
The Company has not filed any application, or no proceeding is pendingagainst the Company under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016during the year ended December 31, 2024.
During the year under review, the Company was not required to transferany shares and dividend thereon to IEPF.
During the year under review, the Company has not provided any loanor guarantee or made investments covered under the provisions ofSection 186 of the Act and Schedule V of the Listing Regulations.
At John Cockerill, the commitment of the Company's CorporateSocial Responsibility ("CSR”) initiatives is to improve the quality of lifeof communities through long-term value creation for all stakeholders.Based on the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Company'score competencies, the Company has defined 3 (three) strategicfocus areas for its CSR activities : Education, Health and Environment.To achieve sustainable impact on the communities, the Companypartners with external stakeholders to implement the projects on theground.
The Company's CSR policy provides guidelines to conduct CSRactivities of the Company. The salient features of the policy form partof the Annual Report on CSR activities annexed to the Board's Report.Annual Report on CSR activities as required under the Companies(Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014, as amended("CSR Rules”) is annexed as Annexure 3 and forms an integral part ofthis Report. The CSR policy is available on the website of the Companyat www.johncockerillindia.com.
The details of the CSR and ESG Committee are provided in the CorporateGovernance Report which forms an integral part of this Report.
During the year under review, the Company was required to spend' 7.34 lakhs on CSR activities in terms of the provisions of the Act read
with the CSR Rules. However, as a good corporate citizen, the Companyspent ' 15.19 lakhs, more than the 2% of its statutory CSR obligations,in view of the Company's commitment to the community. The excessamount spent of ' 7.85 lakhs shall be available for set-off as per Section135(5) of the Act.
During the year under review, the Company continued its commitmentto preserve the planet for citizens of the future through Environment,Social and Governance ("ESG”) activities which include tree plantation.Beyond the core CSR focus areas, employee volunteering is an importantpart of giving back and enabling others to rise. Employee volunteeringinitiatives encompass varied activities such as blood donation drives, treeplantation and diverse community engagement activities.
The Chief Financial Officer of the Company has certified to the Boardthat the funds disbursed for CSR activities during the year were utilizedfor that purpose and in the manner approved by the Board of theCompany.
In terms of Regulation 34(2)(f) of the Listing Regulations read withrelevant SEBI Circulars, filing of BRSR is mandatory for the top 1000 listedcompanies by market capitalisation. As an organization, we understandthe importance of aligning with the country's strategy for decarbonization.The Board has strengthened its oversight on ESG matters, ensuring itremain up to date with evolving regulatory frameworks. The Companyis committed to enhance transparency and accountability. For the yearended December 31, 2024, the Company has opted to publish BRSRvoluntarily. This report will be uploaded on our website soon.
The Company has always aspired to build a culture that demonstratesworld-class standards in safety, environment and sustainability. Peopleare our most valuable asset, and the Company is committed toproviding all its employees with a safe and healthy work environment.The work culture exemplifies the core values and nurtures innovation,creativity and diversity. We ensure alignment of business goals andindividual goals to enable our employees to grow both on personal aswell as professional front.
A detailed note on Human Resources is provided in the ManagementDiscussion and Analysis ("MDA”) Report, which forms part of this Report.
Disclosures under Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(1) of theCompanies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel)Rules, 2014, as amended, relating to the remuneration and other detailsas required is annexed as Annexure 4 and forms an integral part of thisReport.
In terms of the second proviso to Section 136(1) of the Act andthe second proviso of Rule 5 of the Companies (Appointment andRemuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, the Report andFinancial Statements are being sent to the members and others entitledthereto, excluding the statement of particulars of employees, which isavailable for inspection by the members. Any member interested inobtaining a copy thereof may write to the Company Secretary.
None of the employees listed in the said Annexure is related to anyDirector of the Company. None of the employees holds (by himself /herself or along with his / her spouse and dependent children) morethan 2% of the equity shares of the Company.
Health and Safety
The Company is deeply committed to prioritising Health and SafetyManagement for its employees, contractors and visitors. The details onHealth and Safety are provided in the MDA Report, which forms part ofthis Report.
The Company has zero tolerance towards sexual harassment at theworkplace. The Company has a Policy on Prevention of Sexual Harassmentat Workplace in line with the requirements of the Sexual Harassment ofWomen at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013,as amended ("POSH”) and the Rules framed thereunder. The Companyhas constituted Internal Complaints Committee ("ICC”) under POSHto redress the complaints received regarding sexual harassment. TheICC comprises of internal members, and an external member who hasextensive relevant experience in this field.
The ICC also works extensively on creating awareness on relevanceof sexual harassment issues, including while working remotely. Theemployees are required to undergo mandatory training on POSH tosensitise themselves and strengthen their awareness.
The following is reported pursuant to Section 22 of the POSH andRegulation 34(3) read with sub-clause 10(I) of Clause C of ScheduleV of the Listing Regulations for the year ended December 31, 2024 :
a.
Number of complaints of sexual harassmentreceived / filed during the year
Nil
b.
Number of complaints disposed of duringthe year
c.
Number of complaints pending for morethan ninety days
d.
Number of complaints pending as on endof the year
e.
Number of workshops or awarenessprograms carried out
Through SPOTonline -ELearning Module& Two PhysicalSessions
f.
Nature of action taken by the employer orDistrict officer
During the year under review, no case of sexual harassment in theCompany was reported.
The Company has a well defined risk management framework inplace. The risk management framework works at various levels acrossthe enterprise. These levels form the strategic defence cover of theCompany's risk management. The Company has a robust organisationalstructure for managing and reporting on risks.
The Company has constituted a Risk Management Committee whichis authorised to monitor, report and mitigate various risks faced. Theoutcome of this process is reported to the Audit Committee and theBoard of Directors.
The details of the Committee and its terms of reference are set outin the Corporate Governance Report which forms part of this Report.Important elements of risk management process are elaborated in theMDA Report, which forms part of this Report.
The Company's internal control systems are commensurate with thenature of its business, the size and complexity of its operations; suchinternal financial controls with reference to the Financial Statements areadequate. The details and the process of internal control systems, as
implemented by the Company, are provided in the MDA Report, whichforms part of this Report.
The Vigil Mechanism as envisaged in the Act and the Listing Regulations isimplemented through the Company's Whistle Blower Policy. The WhistleBlower Policy of the Company is available on the Company's website athttps://johncockerillindia.com/investors/whistleblower-policy/
It enables the Directors, employees and all stakeholders of the Companyto report genuine concerns (about unethical behaviour, actual orsuspected fraud, or violation of the Code) and provides for adequatesafeguards against victimisation of persons who use such mechanismand makes provision for direct access to the Chairperson of the AuditCommittee. No person is denied access to the Chairperson of the AuditCommittee. The Vigil Mechanism in the Company fosters a culture oftrust and transparency among all its stakeholders.
The Company, during the year under review, conducted a series ofcommunication to the employees through its Townhall with an aim tocreate awareness for Whistle Blower Policy amongst them.
The Company has taken adequate insurance coverage of all its assets andinventories against various types of risks viz. fire, floods, earthquake, cyclone,etc. and also transit insurance to cover the risk during transportation ofgoods from its plants to customer project sites. The Company has alsostarted to procure coverage under project specific Trade Credit insurancepolicies to mitigate its risks during the project execution.
Directors' & Officers' Liability (D & O) policy covers the Directors andOfficers of the Company against the risk of third-party claims and liabilitiesarising out of their actions / decisions in the normal course of discharge oftheir duties, which may result in financial loss to any third party.
The employees of the Company are covered under various employeebenefit group insurance schemes that provide cover for Hospitalization,Accidental Disability and Death.
The Company has in place a robust process for approval of relatedparty transactions and dealing with Related Parties.
As per the process, necessary details for each of the Related PartyTransactions as applicable along with the justification are providedto the Audit Committee in terms of the Company's Policy on RelatedParty Transactions ("RPT Policy”). In accordance with the Securitiesand Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and DisclosureRequirements) (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2024, the Board ofDirectors, at its meeting held on February 20, 2025, has amendedthe RPT Policy of the Company. The RPT Policy can be accessed onthe Company's website at https://johncockerillindia.com/investors/rpt-policy-as-per-lodr/ The Board has approved the criteria to grantomnibus approval by the Audit Committee within the overall frameworkof the RPT Policy on related party transactions.
The material related party transactions approved by the members ofthe Company are also reviewed / monitored on quarterly basis by theAudit Committee of the Company as per the provisions of the Act andListing Regulations.
All related party transactions entered into by the Company, wereapproved by the Audit Committee and were at arm's length and in theordinary course of business. Prior omnibus approval is obtained forrelated party transactions which are of repetitive nature and entered
in the ordinary course of business and on arms' length basis. Thedisclosure of related party transactions as required under Section134(3)(h) of the Act in Form AOC-2 for the year ended December31, 2024 is provided in Annexure 5 and forms an integral part of thisReport.
Pursuant to the provisions of Regulation 23 of the Listing Regulations,the Company has filed half yearly reports to the Stock Exchange for therelated party transactions.
John Cockerill SA is the Holding Company of the Company, and all thesubsidiaries of John Cockerill SA are treated as related parties of theCompany. Such related party transactions, including those with theHolding Company and fellow subsidiaries, which have been carriedout during the current year and previous period are mentioned in theAnnual Report in accordance with the Indian Accounting Standards24 on Related Party Transactions notified by the Companies (IndianAccounting Standards) Rules, 2015, as amended, and are not repeatedin this Report of the Directors. None of the related party transactionsentered into by the Company was in conflict with the Company'sinterests.
The approval of the members of the Company is sought in terms of theListing Regulations for the payment of brand fee @ 0.6% of the externalsales and for the payment of up to 3% referral and technical royalty feesto John Cockerill SA on those portions of contracts assigned to theCompany through John Cockerill SA and also for other Related PartyTransactions with various Related Parties.
None of the Directors and the Key Managerial Personnel has anypecuniary relationship or transactions with the Company other than inthe normal course of the business.
There are no significant and / or material orders passed by theRegulators or Courts or Tribunals impacting the going concern status ofthe Company and its operations.
Information required under Section 134(3)(m) of the Act readwith Rule 8 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, for the yearended December 31, 2024, in relation to the conservation of energy,technology absorption, foreign exchange earnings and outgo, isprovided in Annexure 6, and forms an integral part of this Report.
The Company is committed to maintaining highest standards of corporategovernance practices. The Company remains dedicated to transparencyin all its transactions and places significant importance on business ethics.A report on Corporate Governance along with a Certificate from theStatutory Auditors of the Company regarding compliance with theconditions of Corporate Governance as stipulated under Schedule V ofthe Listing Regulations forms part of this Report.
The Management Discussion and Analysis Report for the year underreview, as stipulated under the Listing Regulations, is presented in aseparate section, forming part of this Annual Report.
During the year under review, the Company has continued the "digitalplatforms” for various meetings including the Board and Committeemeetings, internal meetings and meetings with external stakeholderssuch as customers and vendors. This has helped the Company to reducemultiple sector travel from Europe and from within India for the Directorsand others - several times a year - thereby reducing gas / carbon emissionand dissemination of information in paper form for various meetings. Allthe employees, the Board members and external stakeholders haveadapted to the new tools and platforms quickly and the experience ofadopting a nearly "all-digital” process for all meetings keeps getting better.
In terms of Section 92(3) read with Section 134(3)(a) of the Act, acopy of the Annual Return of the Company prepared in accordancewith Section 92(1) of the Act read with Rule 11 of the Companies(Management and Administration) Rules, 2014 is placed on the websiteof the Company at https://johncockerillindia.com/investors/agm-2025/
With effect from September 1, 2024, the Company has shifted to newCorporate Office at Unit No. 1902, 19th Floor, Aurum Q2 IT Parc, Plot No.Gen-4/1, TTC Industrial Area, Thane-Belapur Road, Navi Mumbai - 400710. The intimation of the situation of new Corporate Office was filedwith the Stock Exchange.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 128 of the Act, read with Rulesmade thereunder, the Board, at its meeting held on October 28, 2024,approved maintaining of Books of Accounts of the Company at thenew Corporate Office of the Company i.e. at location other than theRegistered Office of the Company. Accordingly, the Books of Accountsof the Company are kept and maintained at Unit No. 1902, 19th Floor,Aurum Q2 IT Parc, TTC Industrial Area, Thane Belapur Road, NaviMumbai - 400 710 with effect from October 28, 2024.
The Board of Directors takes this opportunity to thank John CockerillSA, the parent Company, customers, members, suppliers, bankers,business partners, associates and the Central and State Governmentsfor their consistent support and co-operation to the Company.
The Directors hereby wish to place on record their appreciation of theefficient and loyal services rendered by each and every employee,without whose whole-hearted efforts, the overall performance wouldnot have been possible. The Directors look forward to the long-termfuture with confidence.
Mumbai Chairman
February 20, 2025 DIN : 10593380