Your Board of Directors ("the Board") is pleased to presentthe Forty-Eighth Annual Report of CESC Limited ("theCompany"), together with the Audited Standalone andConsolidated Financial Statements for the financial yearended March 31, 2026 (the year).
FINANCIAL RESULTS
The Standalone and Consolidated Financial Statements forthe financial year ended March 31, 2026 have been preparedin accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act,2013 ("the Act"), the Indian Accounting Standards ("IndAS") notified under Section 133 of the Act read with theCompanies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015, asamended, and the applicable provisions of the Securitiesand Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations andDisclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 ("SEBI ListingRegulations").
The financial performance of the Company for the financialyear ended March 31, 2026 is summarised below:
Particulars
Standalone
Consolidated
2025-26
2024-25
Revenue fromoperations
9,732
9,584
18,570
17,001
Other Income
207
181
357
374
Total Income
9,939
9,765
18,927
17,375
Total Expenses
9,349
9,838
17,711
16,841
Regulatory
Income
535
1,135
903
1,249
Profit beforetax
1,125
1,062
2,119
1,783
Tax Expenses
273
262
501
354
Profit for theyear
852
800
1,618
1,429
Other
comprehensive
income
(37)
(15)
(39)
(13)
Total
815
785
1,579
1,416
Retained earnings of the Company as per the StandaloneFinancial Statements as on March 31, 2026 was ' 9,983crore (March 31, 2025 ' 10,179 crore).
For detailed discussion on financial results and operationalperformance, may please refer to the ManagementDiscussion and Analysis section (Annexure 'A').
There were no material changes and commitmentsaffecting the financial position of the Company, whichhave occurred between the end of the Financial Year andthe date of this report.
DIVIDEND
During the year under review, an Interim Dividendof 600% i.e. ' 6.00 per equity share of face value' 1/- each, was paid to the eligible Members after deductionof tax at source at the applicable rates in accordance withthe provisions of the Income-tax Act, 1961.
The Interim Dividend was declared in accordance with theCompany's Dividend Distribution Policy, which is availableon the Company's website at https://www.cesc.co.in/storage/uploads/policies/Dividend Policy.pdf.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 123 of the Act, theInterim Dividend declared and paid during the financialyear will be placed before the Members for confirmation atthe ensuing Annual General Meeting.
The Company continues to follow a balanced capitalallocation framework focused on sustaining businessgrowth, strengthening operational infrastructure, maintaininga prudent capital structure and delivering consistent returnsto shareholders through an appropriate dividend policy.
INVESTOR EDUCATION AND PROTECTION FUND
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 124 and 125 of theAct, read with the Investor Education and Protection FundAuthority (Accounting, Audit, Transfer and Refund) Rules,2016, as amended, the Company has, during the financialyear under review, transferred to the Investor Educationand Protection Fund ("IEPF") established by the CentralGovernment, the dividend amounts remaining unpaid orunclaimed for a period of seven years. Equity shares inrespect of which dividend had remained unclaimed forconsecutive period of seven years were also transferred toIEPF.
SUBSIDIARIES
As at March 31, 2026, the Company had fifty subsidiaries,including eight subsidiaries incorporated/acquired duringthe financial year namely Purvah Navurja Private Limited,Purvah Cleantech Power Private Limited, Purvah Bikaner -V One Power Private Limited, Purvah Clean Energy PrivateLimited, Purvah Bikaner - V Two Power Private Limited,Purvah Poweredge Private Limited, Purvah EcoenergySolutions Private Limited and Purvah Power VenturesPrivate Limited. The performance and key developmentsrelating to the Company's subsidiaries are discussed in theManagement Discussion and Analysis Report, which formsan integral part of this Annual Report.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 129(3) of the Act,read with Rule 5 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014,a statement containing the salient features of the financialstatements of the Company's subsidiaries in Form AOC-1forms part of this Annual Report.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 136 of the Actread with the SEBI Listing Regulations, the audited financialstatements of the Company's subsidiaries are availableon the Company's website athttps://www.cesc.co.in/subsidiaryAccounts.
The Company has adopted a Policy for DeterminingMaterial Subsidiaries in accordance with the provisions ofthe SEBI Listing Regulations. The Board periodically reviewsthe operational and financial performance of all subsidiarycompanies, including their strategic initiatives, governanceframework, risk profile, capital allocation and compliancestatus, thereby ensuring effective oversight across theGroup. The Policy is available on the Company's websiteat https://www.cesc.co.in/storage/uploads/policies/POLICY ON MATERIAL SUBSIDIARIES.pdf.
As on March 31, 2026, Noida Power Company Limited,Haldia Energy Limited and Dhariwal Infrastructure Limitedwere the material subsidiaries of the Company in terms ofRegulation 16(1)(c) of the SEBI Listing Regulations.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with the provisions of the Act, the IndianAccounting Standards ("Ind AS") prescribed under Section133 of the Act and the SEBI Listing Regulations, the AuditedConsolidated Financial Statements of the Company forthe financial year ended March 31, 2026, together withthe Auditors' Report thereon issued by Messrs S. R. Batliboi& Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants, Statutory Auditors ofthe Company, form part of this Annual Report and will belaid before the Members at the ensuing Annual GeneralMeeting.
In accordance with the provisions of the Act and theSEBI Listing Regulations, the Audited Standalone andConsolidated Financial Statements of the Company,together with all other documents required to be annexedor attached thereto, are available on the Company'swebsite at https://www.cesc.co.in/annualReports.
DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
Based on the recommendations of the Nomination andRemuneration Committee, the Board and the Members ofthe Company approved the following appointments/re-appointments during the financial year under review:
a. Appointment of Independent Director
The Members approved the appointment ofMr. Umang Kanoria (DIN: 00081108) as a Non¬Executive Independent Director of the Companyfor a term upto three consecutive years with effectfrom February 25, 2026. The requisite approval of theMembers was obtained on March 29, 2026.
b. Re-appointment of Independent Director
The Members also approved the re-appointment ofMr. Debanjan Mandal (DIN: 00469622) as a Non-
Executive Independent Director for a second term offive consecutive years with effect from May 10, 2026.The requisite approval of the Members was obtainedon March 29, 2026.
c. Continuation of Directorship under Regulation17(1A)
In accordance with Regulation 17(1A) of the SEBIListing Regulations, approval of the Members hasbeen sought for the continuation of directorship ofMr. Paras Kumar Chowdhary (DIN: 00076807) asa Non-Executive Independent Director beyond hisattaining the age of seventy-five years on October1, 2026. An appropriate resolution forms part ofthe Notice convening the ensuing Annual GeneralMeeting.
d. Demise of Director
The Board records with deep sorrow the demise ofMr. Sunil Mitra (DIN: 00113473) on January 12, 2026.Late Mr. Mitra had been serving as an IndependentDirector of the Company since November 14, 2019.The Board places on record its sincere appreciationfor his invaluable guidance, distinguished service andsignificant contributions during his association withthe Company and extends its heartfelt condolencesto his family.
e. Retirement by Rotation
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 152 of the Actand Article 102 of the Articles of Association of theCompany, Mr. Shashwat Goenka (DIN: 03486121)retires by rotation at the ensuing Annual GeneralMeeting and, being eligible, has offered himself for re¬appointment.
f. Declaration by Independent Directors
The Company has received the requisite declarationsfrom all the Independent Directors confirming thatthey continue to satisfy the criteria of independenceprescribed under Section 149(6) of the Act andRegulation 16(1)(b) of the SEBI Listing Regulations. TheBoard has taken the same on record and is satisfiedthat all the Independent Directors possess therequisite integrity, expertise, experience and fulfil theconditions specified under the applicable provisionsof the Act and the SEBI Listing Regulations.
The details of the skills, expertise and corecompetencies of the Board are provided in theCorporate Governance Report forming part of thisAnnual Report.
In the opinion of the Board, all the IndependentDirectors fulfil the conditions specified under the Actand the SEBI Listing Regulations and are independentof the management.
The Board continues to maintain an appropriatebalance of Executive, Non-Executive and IndependentDirectors possessing diverse experience therebyenabling effective oversight and strategic guidance.
g. Key Managerial Personnel
As on March 31, 2026, there was no change in the KeyManagerial Personnel of the Company. The detailsof the Key Managerial Personnel as defined underSection 2(51) of the Act are provided below:
Sl.
No.
Key ManagerialPersonnel
Designation
1.
Mr. Brajesh Singh
Managing Director(Generation)
2.
Mr. Vineet Sikka
Managing Director(Distribution)
3.
Mr. Rajarshi Banerjee
Executive Director &CFO
4.
Mr. Jagdish Patra
Company Secretary &Compliance Officer
During the financial year under review, the Non-ExecutiveDirectors had no pecuniary relationship or transactionswith the Company other than the payment of sitting feesfor attending meetings of the Board and its Committeesand commission, as approved by the Members and payablein accordance with the applicable provisions of the Act andthe Company's Remuneration Policy.
During the financial year ended March 31, 2026, sixmeetings of the Board of Directors were held onApril 24, 2025, May 15, 2025, July 30, 2025, October17, 2025, February 6, 2026 and March 25, 2026. Theintervening gap between any two consecutive meetingsdid not exceed the period prescribed under the Act and theSEBI Listing Regulations.
INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS MEETING
In accordance with the provisions of Schedule IV to theAct and Regulation 25(3) of the SEBI Listing Regulations,a separate meeting of the Independent Directors washeld on February 6, 2026, without the presence ofthe Non-Independent Directors and members of theManagement.
At the meeting, the Independent Directors, inter alia:
• reviewed the performance of the Non-IndependentDirectors and the Board as a whole;
• reviewed the performance of the Chairman of theCompany, taking into account the views of theExecutive and Non-Executive Directors and
• assessed the quality, quantity and timeliness of theflow of information between the Management and theBoard which is necessary for the Board to effectivelyand reasonably perform its duties.
The Independent Directors expressed their satisfactionwith the overall functioning of the Board, its Committeesand the Management.
The Company has put in place a system to familiariseits Independent Directors with the Company, their roles,rights & responsibilities in the Company, nature of theindustry in which the Company operates, business modelof the Company, etc. The details of the FamiliarisationProgramme are available on the Company's website andare also set out in the Report on Corporate Governance.
SECRETARIAL STANDARDS
The Company has complied with the applicable SecretarialStandards, i.e., SS-1 and SS-2 issued by the Institute ofCompany Secretaries of India and notified by the Ministryof Corporate Affairs, Govt. of India, relating to Meetings ofthe Board of Directors and General Meetings respectively.
BOARD DIVERSITY
The Company recognises that an appropriately diverseBoard enhances the quality of decision-making, strengthenscorporate governance and supports sustainable long-termvalue creation. The Board Diversity Policy seeks to ensurean appropriate balance of skills, experience, expertise, age,gender, knowledge, professional background and diversityof thought, thereby enabling the Board to discharge itsresponsibilities effectively.
In accordance with Section 178 of the Act and Regulation19 read with Part D of Schedule II to the SEBI ListingRegulations, the Nomination and RemunerationCommittee is responsible for identifying suitablecandidates for appointment to the Board and evaluatingthe qualifications, expertise, experience, integrity, positiveattributes and independence of Directors.
BOARD EVALUATION
Pursuant to the provisions of the Act and the SEBIListing Regulations, the Board has carried out the annualperformance evaluation of the Board, its Committees, theChairman, the Individual Directors and the IndependentDirectors.
The evaluation was undertaken in accordance with theframework and criteria approved by the Nomination andRemuneration Committee and covered various aspectsincluding the composition of the Board, effectiveness ofBoard processes, strategic guidance, governance practices,participation, contribution and oversight responsibilities.
The outcome of the evaluation was reviewed by the Board,which expressed satisfaction with its overall effectivenessand that of its Committees and Directors. Further detailson the evaluation process and the evaluation criteria are
provided in the Report on Corporate Governance formingpart of this Annual Report.
COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD
To facilitate focused oversight and effective governance,the Board has constituted the following Committees inaccordance with the provisions of the Act and the SEBIListing Regulations:
• Audit Committee
• Nomination and Remuneration Committee
• Corporate Social Responsibility Committee
• Stakeholders' Relationship Committee
• Risk Management Committee
During the financial year under review, all recommendationsmade by the Committees of the Board were accepted bythe Board.
The composition, terms of reference, meetings and otherdetails of the Committees are provided in the Report onCorporate Governance forming part of this Annual Report.
EQUITY CAPITAL AND DEBT SECURITIESEquity Shares
During the year under review, there has been no changein the authorized, issued, subscribed and paid-up EquityShare Capital of the Company. The Equity Shares of theCompany continued to be listed with BSE Limited (BSE)and the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSE). TheCompany has paid the requisite listing fees to the StockExchanges up to the Financial Year 2026-27.
Issue of Non-Convertible Debentures
During the Financial Year 2025-26, the Company hadissued and allotted 55,000 Secured, Unlisted, Rated,Redeemable Non-Convertible Debentures of the facevalue of ' 1,00,000 each, aggregating to ' 550 crore, on aprivate placement basis, in compliance with the applicableprovisions of the Act and the rules made thereunder andother applicable laws.
The proceeds of the issue have been utilised for thepurposes approved by the Board and in accordancewith the terms of the respective Private Placement OfferDocument and applicable regulatory requirements.
Redemption of Debentures
During the year under review, the Company redeemedSecured, Unlisted, Redeemable Non-ConvertibleDebentures aggregating to ' 262.50 crore in accordancewith the respective terms of issue.
Consequent to the above issuances and redemptions,Secured, Unlisted, Rated, Redeemable Non-ConvertibleDebentures aggregating to ' 1,687.50 crore remainedoutstanding as on March 31, 2026.
Debenture Trustee
The Company has appointed IDBI Trusteeship ServicesLimited as the Debenture Trustee pursuant to theapplicable regulations for the outstanding SecuredNon-Convertible Debentures.
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENTYour Directors hereby state and confirm that:
i) in the preparation of the accounts for the financialyear ended March 31, 2026, the applicable accountingstandards have been followed along with properexplanation relating to the material departures, if any;
ii) the Directors have selected such accounting policiesand applied them consistently and made judgmentsand estimates that are reasonable and prudent so asto give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of theCompany at the end of the financial year and of theprofit of the Company for that period;
iii) the Directors have taken proper and sufficient carefor the maintenance of adequate accounting recordsin accordance with the provisions of the Act forsafeguarding the assets of the Company and forpreventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities;
iv) the Directors have prepared the annual accounts on agoing concern basis;
v) the Directors have laid down internal financial controlsto be followed by the Company and that such internalfinancial controls are adequate and are operatingeffectively; and
vi) the Directors have devised proper systems to ensurecompliance with the provisions of all applicablelaws and that such systems are adequate andoperating effectively.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Pursuant to Regulation 34 of the SEBI Listing Regulations,the Management Discussion and Analysis for the yearunder review is presented in a separate section formingpart of this Report as Annexure 'A'.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The Company is committed to maintaining the higheststandards of corporate governance, founded on theprinciples of integrity, transparency, accountability,ethical business conduct and sustainable value creation.The Board believes that robust governance practicesare fundamental to enhancing stakeholder confidence,safeguarding shareholders' interests and ensuring the long¬term success of the Company. Accordingly, the Companycontinues to strengthen its governance frameworkthrough effective oversight, prudent risk management,sound internal controls and a culture of compliance acrossthe organisation.
The Company's governance framework is aligned with therequirements of the Act and the SEBI Listing Regulations,and other applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.The Board periodically reviews the governance frameworkto ensure that it remains responsive to evolving regulatoryexpectations and global best practices.
Pursuant to Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of the SEBIListing Regulations, the Report on Corporate Governance,together with the requisite disclosures and the AdditionalShareholders' Information, forms part of this Annual Reportas Annexure 'B' and Annexure 'C', respectively.
The certificate issued by the Statutory Auditors confirmingcompliance with the conditions of Corporate Governance,as stipulated under the SEBI Listing Regulations, forms partof this Annual Report.
The Board affirms that, throughout the year under review,the Company has complied with the applicable provisionsrelating to Corporate Governance prescribed under theSEBI Listing Regulations.
The Board is committed to continuously enhancing theCompany's governance practices in line with evolvingregulatory requirements and global best practices, withthe objective of creating sustainable long-term value forall stakeholders.
The Company continuously benchmarks its governancepractices against evolving regulatory requirements andglobal governance standards. During the year, the Boardcontinued to strengthen oversight over ESG initiatives,cyber security, enterprise risk management, successionplanning and stakeholder engagement.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY(CSR)
The Company remains committed to creating sustainablesocial value through impactful Corporate SocialResponsibility ("CSR") initiatives that contribute to inclusiveand equitable development of the communities in whichit operates. Guided by its philosophy of responsiblecorporate citizenship, the Company's CSR programmesextend beyond statutory compliance and are designed tocreate measurable and long-term social impact. During theyear under review, the Company continued to undertakeinitiatives across key focus areas including healthcare,education, child protection, environmental sustainability,skill development and livelihood enhancement, sports, andpromotion of art and culture.
The Company continues to measure the effectiveness of itsCSR initiatives through structured monitoring mechanismsand independent evaluations, thereby ensuring optimalutilisation of CSR resources and measurable socio¬economic outcomes.
The Corporate Social Responsibility Committee of theBoard provides strategic direction and oversight over theplanning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation ofCSR initiatives to ensure alignment with the provisions ofSection 135 of the Act, the Companies (Corporate SocialResponsibility Policy) Rules, 2014 (CSR Rules), as amended,and the Company's CSR Policy which is available on theCompany's website and can be accessed at https://www.cesc.co.in/storage/uploads/policies/CSR Policy.pdf.
Pursuant to Section 135 of the Act read with the CSR Rules,the Annual Report on CSR activities undertaken during theFinancial Year 2025-26 forms part of this Annual Report asAnnexure 'D'.
In accordance with the applicable provisions of the CSRRules, the Company engaged Renovate India to undertakean independent impact assessment of eligible CSR projects.The impact assessment reports relating to "Eklavya -CESC Skill Academy" form part of this Annual Report asAnnexure 'D1'. The findings of these assessments reaffirmthe Company's commitment towards implementingoutcome-based CSR programmes that create sustainableand measurable benefits for the communities at large.
BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITYREPORT (BRSR)
Pursuant to Regulation 34(2)(f) of the SEBI ListingRegulations, the Business Responsibility and SustainabilityReport ("BRSR"), containing disclosures on the Company'sperformance across Environmental, Social and Governance("ESG") parameters for the Financial Year 2025-26 in theprescribed format, forms part of this Annual Report asAnnexure 'E'.
In accordance with the applicable provisions of theSEBI Listing Regulations, the Company has obtained anindependent Reasonable Assurance on the BRSR Ninecore indicators from Tirkha Consultants & Advisors LLPThe assurance engagement was undertaken to providean independent assessment of the reliability, accuracy andcompleteness of the BRSR Core indicators and to enhancestakeholder confidence in the Company's sustainabilityreporting. The Independent Assurance Statement formspart of this Annual Report as Annexure 'E1'.
Sustainability considerations continue to be integrated intothe Company's long-term business strategy, operationalplanning and enterprise risk management framework. TheCompany remains committed in enhancing transparencyand strengthening ESG disclosures in line with evolvingregulatory expectations and stakeholder interests.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The Company has in place a robust governance frameworkfor identification, review, approval and monitoring ofRelated Party Transactions ("RPTs") in accordance with
the provisions of the Act, the SEBI Listing Regulationsand the Policy Statement on Materiality of Related PartyTransactions and Dealing with Related Party Transactionsapproved by the Board.
During the year under review, all RPTs entered into by theCompany were in the ordinary course of business and onan arm's length basis. There were no materially significantRPTs that could have had a potential conflict with theinterests of the Company or its minority shareholders.No Material RPT requiring prior approval of the Membersunder the SEBI Listing Regulations was entered into duringthe year.
The Company has also complied with the applicableIndustry Standards notified by SEBI relating to the minimuminformation to be placed before the Audit Committee forapproval of RPTs.
All RPTs are reviewed by the Audit Committee inaccordance with the Company's Policy on RPTs and theapplicable provisions of the Act and the Listing Regulations.Appropriate omnibus approvals, wherever applicable, areobtained after ensuring that such transactions are in theordinary course of business and on an arm's length basis.
The Policy Statement on Materiality of Related PartyTransactions and Dealing with Related Party Transactions isavailable on the Company's website and can be accessedat:
https://www.cesc.co.in/storage/uploads/policies/RELATED PARTIES POLICY.pdf
The disclosures relating to RPTs as required under theIndian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) are provided in Note42 to the Standalone Financial Statements forming part ofthis Annual Report.
RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk management forms an integral part of the Company'sgovernance framework and strategic decision-makingprocess. The Company has established framework andprocess to systematically identify, assess, monitor andmitigate risks that could impact the achievement of itsstrategic and business objectives.
The Risk Management Committee of the Board, constitutedin accordance with the SEBI Listing Regulations, overseesthe implementation and effectiveness of the Company'srisk management framework. The Committee periodicallyreviews the Company's risk profile, mitigation strategies andemerging risks, including strategic, operational, financial,regulatory, cybersecurity, information security, safety,environmental and climate-related risks, and businesscontinuity preparedness.
The Audit Committee continues to provide additionaloversight in relation to financial reporting risks, internalfinancial controls and compliance risks. A detaileddiscussion on the Company's risk management framework
and key risks forms part of the Management Discussionand Analysis and the Report on Corporate Governanceincluded in this Annual Report.
PREVENTION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN ATWORKPLACE
The Company is committed to providing a safe, secure,inclusive and respectful workplace for all employees andmaintaining a work environment free from discrimination,harassment and intimidation.
In compliance with the provisions of the Sexual Harassmentof Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition andRedressal) Act, 2013 and the Rules framed thereunder,the Company has adopted a comprehensive Policyon Prevention of Sexual Harassment ("POSH") and hasconstituted Internal Committees to address complaints inaccordance with the provisions of the Act.
The Company continues to conduct regular awarenessprogrammes, sensitisation workshops and training sessionsto reinforce awareness of the POSH Policy and promotea culture of dignity, equality and mutual respect acrossthe organisation.
The details of complaints received, disposed of andpending during the Financial Year 2025-26 are provided inthe Report on Corporate Governance forming part of thisAnnual Report.
INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL AND ITS ADEQUACY
The Company has established adequate Internal FinancialControls ("IFC") commensurate with the nature, size andcomplexity of its operations. The internal financial controlframework is designed to provide reasonable assuranceregarding the orderly and efficient conduct of business,safeguarding of assets, prevention and detection of fraudsand errors, accuracy and completeness of accountingrecords and timely preparation of reliable financialinformation.
The effectiveness of the internal financial controlsare periodically evaluated through a combination ofmanagement reviews, self-assessment mechanisms andindependent testing carried out by the Internal Auditfunction. The Audit Committee regularly reviews theadequacy and effectiveness of the Company's internalfinancial control framework, internal audit findings and theimplementation status of corrective actions.
Based on the assessment carried out during the year underreview, the Board is of the opinion that the Company has,in all material respects, an adequate system of InternalFinancial Controls over financial reporting and that suchcontrols were operating effectively as at March 31, 2026.
AUDITORS AND AUDITORS' REPORT
In terms of the provisions of Section 139 of the Act, Messrs.S. R. Batliboi & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (Firm
Registration No. 301003E/E300005), were appointedas the Statutory Auditors of the Company for a term offive consecutive years at the Forty-fourth Annual GeneralMeeting ("AGM") of the Company.
The Standalone and Consolidated Financial Statements forthe Financial Year ended March 31, 2026 was audited bythe Statutory Auditors and they have issued an unmodifiedaudit opinion on the aforesaid Financial Statements.
The Notes to the Financial Statements referred to in theAuditors' Report are self-explanatory and, therefore, do notcall for any further comments under Section 134(3)(f) ofthe Act.
During the year under review, the Statutory Auditors havenot reported any instance of fraud as referred to in Section143(12) of the Act.
COST AUDITORS AND COST AUDIT REPORT
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 148(1) of the Act,read with the Companies (Cost Records and Audit) Rules,2014, the Company is required to maintain cost records.Accordingly, the Company has maintained such costrecords as prescribed by the Central Government.
The Cost Audit Report for the Financial Year endedMarch 31, 2025 was filed within the prescribed statutorytimeline. The Cost Audit Report for the Financial Year2025-26 shall be filed within the prescribed time.
Based on the recommendation of the Audit Committee,the Board of Directors has re-appointed Messrs. Shome &Banerjee, Cost Accountants (Firm Registration No. 000001),as the Cost Auditors of the Company to conduct the auditof the cost records of the Company for the Financial Yearending March 31, 2027, in accordance with the provisionsof Section 148 of the Act read with the Companies (Auditand Auditors) Rules, 2014.
The Cost Auditors have confirmed that they satisfy theindependence criteria prescribed under the Act and theapplicable Cost Auditing Standards issued by the Instituteof Cost Accountants of India."
The remuneration payable to the Cost Auditors has beenapproved by the Board on the recommendation of the AuditCommittee and is subject to ratification by the Members ofthe Company and accordingly, an appropriate resolutionseeking Members' ratification of the remuneration payableto the Cost Auditors forms part of the Notice conveningthe ensuing Annual General Meeting.
SECRETARIAL AUDIT REPORT
In terms of Section 204 of the Act read with Rule 9 ofthe Companies (Appointment and Remuneration ofManagerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 and Regulation 24A ofthe SEBI Listing Regulations, the Company has appointed
M/s. Anjan Kumar Roy & Co., Company Secretaries (FirmUnique Code: S2002WB051400; Peer Review CertificateNo. 869/2020) as the Secretarial Auditors of the Companyfor a term of five consecutive years from the Financial Year2025-26 to Financial Year 2029-30, with the approval ofthe Members.
Accordingly, the Secretarial Audit of the Company forthe Financial Year 2025-26 was carried out by M/s. AnjanKumar Roy & Co., Company Secretaries.
The Secretarial Audit Report for the Financial Year 2025-26is annexed to this Report as Annexure 'F'. The said Reportdoes not contain any qualification, reservation, adverseremark or disclaimer.
Further, pursuant to Regulation 24A of the SEBI ListingRegulations, the Secretarial Audit Reports of the Company'smaterial unlisted subsidiaries, namely Noida PowerCompany Limited, Haldia Energy Limited and DhariwalInfrastructure Limited, for the Financial Year 2025-26 areannexed to this Annual Report as Annexures 'F1', 'F2'and 'F3', respectively. None of the said reports contain anyqualification, reservation, adverse remark or disclaimer.
The Company has also obtained the Annual SecretarialCompliance Report for the Financial Year ended March 31,2026 from a Practising Company Secretary in accordancewith Regulation 24A of the SEBI Listing Regulations. Thesaid Report has been submitted to the Stock Exchangeswithin the prescribed timeline and does not contain anyqualification or adverse observation.
The Board has reviewed the Secretarial Audit Report andnotes that there are no material observations requiringexplanation under Section 134(3)(f) of the Act.
ETHICS, COMPLIANCE AND STATUTORY DISCLOSURESVigil Mechanism / Whistle Blower Policy
The Company is committed to fostering an ethical,transparent and accountable work environment. Incompliance with Section 177 of the Act and Regulation 22 ofthe SEBI Listing Regulations, the Company has establisheda robust Vigil Mechanism / Whistle-blower Policy toprovide directors, employees and other stakeholders withan appropriate mechanism to report genuine concernsrelating to unethical conduct, actual or suspected fraud,violation of the Company's Code of Conduct, or any othermisconduct, without fear of retaliation.
The Audit Committee periodically reviews the functioningof the Vigil Mechanism and is satisfied that adequatesafeguards exist against victimisation of whistle-blowers.
The Policy provides adequate safeguards againstvictimisation of whistle-blowers and ensures direct accessto the Chairman of the Audit Committee through theCompany Secretary, wherever considered necessary.
The Whistle-blower Policy is available on the Company'swebsite and can be accessed at:
https://www.cesc.co.in/storage/upioads/poiicies/
WhistieBiowerPoiicv.pdf
Insider Trading
The Company has adopted a comprehensive Code ofConduct for Prevention of Insider Trading in accordancewith the SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Reguiations,2015 (SEBI PIT Reguiations), as amended from time to time.
The Code prescribes procedures for handiingUnpubiished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI), reguiatestrading by Designated Persons and their immediatereiatives, and estabiishes appropriate disciosure andcompiiance requirements.
Further, in compiiance with the SEBI PIT Reguiations, theCompany maintains a Structured Digitai Database (SDD)containing detaiis of persons with whom UPSI is sharedon a need-to-know basis for iegitimate purposes. Thedatabase is maintained with appropriate time-stamping,audit traiis and non-tampering controis to ensure reguiatorycompiiance.
Code of Conduct
The Company has adopted a comprehensive Codeof Conduct appiicabie to the Directors and SeniorManagement Personnei, iaying down the standards ofethicai conduct, integrity and professionai behaviourexpected across the organisation. Annuai affirmationsconfirming compiiance with the Code were obtainedfrom aii Directors and Senior Management Personnei. Adeciaration to this effect, signed by the Managing Director,forms part of the Report on Corporate Governance.
Significant and Material Orders
During the Financiai Year 2025-26, no significant or materiaiorder was passed by any reguiator, court or tribunai whichcouid impact the Company's going concern status ormateriaiiy affect its operations or future business. Further,there was no instance of one-time settiement with anyBank or Financiai Institution.
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016
During the year under review, no appiication was made,nor were any proceedings pending against the Companyunder the Insoivency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Change in Nature of Business
There was no change in the nature of the business of theCompany during the Financiai Year 2025-26.
Particulars of Loans, Guarantees and Investments
The provisions of Section 186 (4) requiring disciosure in thefinanciai statements of the fuii particuiars of the ioan given,investment made or guarantee given or security providedand the purpose for which such ioan or guarantee or
security is proposed to be utiiised by the recipient of theioan or guarantee or security are not appiicabie to theCompany, in terms of the provisions of the Section 186(11) of the Act.
Public Deposits
During the Financiai Year 2025-26, the Company did notaccept any deposits within the meaning of Chapter V ofthe Act. Accordingiy, no amount of principai or interestremained outstanding as on March 31, 2026.
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, RESEARCH &DEVELOPMENT, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION, FOREIGNEXCHANGE EARNINGS AND OUTGO
The information reiating to conservation of energy,technoiogy absorption, research and deveiopment, andforeign exchange earnings and outgo, as required underSection 134(3)(m) of the Act read with Ruie 8(3) of theCompanies (Accounts) Ruies, 2014, is provided in Annexure'G', which forms an integrai part of this Report.
ANNUAL RETURN
Pursuant to Section 92 of the Act and Ruie 12 of theCompanies (Management and Administration) Ruies,2014, the Annuai Return is avaiiabie on the website of theCompany on the foiiowing iink at https://www.cesc.co.in/storage/upioads/annuai return/Annuai%20Return%202025-26.pdf.
THE CODE ON SOCIAL SECURITY, 2020 - MATERNITYBENEFIT
The Company is in compiiance with the appiicabieprovisions reiating to maternity benefits as prescribedunder the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961/the Code on SociaiSecurity, 2020.
PARTICULARS OF EMPLOYEES AND RELATEDDISCLOSURES
The disciosures required pursuant to Section 197(12) of theAct read with Ruie 5(1) of the Companies (Appointmentand Remuneration of Manageriai Personnei) Ruies, 2014are provided in Annexure 'H', forming part of this Report.
The statement containing particuiars of empioyees asprescribed under Ruie 5(2) and Ruie 5(3) of the aforesaidRuies is annexed as Annexure 'I'. In accordance with theprovisions of Section 136(1) of the Act, this Annuai Reportis being circuiated to the Members exciuding the saidAnnexure. The statement is avaiiabie for inspection at theRegistered Office of the Company during business hourson aii working days and may aiso be obtained by Membersupon making a written request to the Company Secretaryat secretariai@rpsg.in.
None of the empioyees covered under the aforesaiddisciosures is reiated to any Director of the Company.
The Company has adopted a RemunerationPoiicy for Directors, Key Manageriai Personnei and
Senior Management Personnel, formulated on therecommendation of the Nomination and RemunerationCommittee and approved by the Board of Directors. ThePolicy is available on the Company's website at:
https://www.cesc.co.in/storage/upioads/poiicies/REMUNERATION%20POLICY CESC SM.pdf
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS
Industriai reiations across aii the Company's operationsremained cordial and harmonious throughout the year. TheBoard piaces on record its appreciation for the continuedcommitment, cooperation and dedication demonstratedby employees at aii levels. Further details on the Company'speople practices, employee engagement and humanresource initiatives are provided in the ManagementDiscussion and Analysis forming part of this Annual Report.
The Board places on record its appreciation for thecommitment, dedication and contribution of aii employeestowards the Company's continued success.
Looking Ahead
The Company remains focused on strengthening itsleadership position across the power value chain whileacceierating its ciean energy transition. Continuedinvestments in network reliability, renewable energy, digitaltechnologies, operational excellence and customer servicewiii remain key strategic priorities. Supported by a stronggovernance framework, prudent financial managementand a highly experienced leadership team, the Companyis weii positioned to create sustainable long-term value foraii stakehoiders.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Board of Directors piaces on record its sincereappreciation for the continued trust, confidence andsupport received from the Company's Members,consumers, empioyees, business associates, vendors,financiai institutions, banks, investors, ienders and otherstakehoiders.
The Board aiso expresses its gratitude to the Governmentof India, various State Governments, the Ministry of Power,Centrai and State Eiectricity Reguiatory Commissions,statutory and reguiatory authorities, municipai and iocaiauthorities, and the communities in the areas in whichthe Company operates for their continued guidance,cooperation and support.
For and on behaif of the Board of Directors
Dr. Sanjiv Goenka
Piace : Koikata Chairman
Date : May 6, 2026 DIN: 00074796