The Board of Directors has the pleasure in presenting its 61st Annual Report along with the Audited Accounts for the yearended March 31,2025.
The Indian Paper Industry faced significant challenges during the financial year 2024-25, primarily due to a surge inimports, rising raw material costs and softening realizations. Amidst these challenges, your company showed resilienceand posted moderate profitability. The summary of the financial results are as follows:
Particulars
For the year ended
March 31, 2025
March 31, 2024
Revenue from Operations
1,541.24
1,800.58
Earnings before interest, depreciation & taxation (EBITDA)
223.29
525.93
Finance costs
17.89
4.41
Depreciation
88.32
65.87
Profit before exceptional items
117.07
455.64
Exceptional items
-
Profit before tax
Tax expense
28.16
115.90
Profit for the year
88.91
339.74
The total income declined by 14% during FY 2024-25mainly on account of (i) A significant drop in domestic salesrealizations, driven by intense competition from cheaperimports, particularly from China and ASEAN countries.
(ii) increase in raw material costs by 8.95%, driven by asubstantial 34% surge in domestic wood prices (a keyinput), led to increased reliance on imported wood chips.
(iii) Increase in finance cost for capital expenditure includingTissue paper project. (iv) Disruption in operations causedby a workmen strike lasting for 28 days, planned annualmaintenance shutdown of 22 days and an increase in totalexpenses by 5%. However, fixed cost savings providedsome offset to the overall impact. The total productionduring the year was 2,32,861 MT, a decline of 1% overthe previous year and the total sales was 2,26,288 MT adecline of 3% over the previous year largely attributable tothe workmen strike, annual outage and subdued marketdemand. The management has taken considerable effortsin this regard and the industrial relations have significantlyimproved since then fostering a positive sentiment acrossthe Manufacturing facilities.
Despite pressures on revenues and operating profits inFY2025, the company maintained moderate financialstability. This resilience is attributed to a strong marketposition, the ability to adapt its product mix to customerpreferences, and a robust dealership network that allows
flexible pivoting between domestic and export marketsbased on demand.
The company implemented targeted strategies toimprove margins through prudent expense and inventorymanagement, tighter budgetary controls, operationalefficiency, process optimization and automation.Furthermore, the company has sufficient wood inventorythanks to strong farm forestry initiatives, with wood pricesexpected to soften in the latter half of the year. Significantcapital investments in manufacturing facilities during theyear are anticipated to enhance production capacity andoperational efficiency, leading to recovery in profitability andpositive long-term returns for shareholders.
There was no change in the nature of businessduring the year.
The Company does not propose to transfer any amountto reserves.
The Company after obtaining approval of the members of theCompany and Regulatory and other approvals sub-dividedthe face value of the each of the Equity Share from C10/- to?2/-. The Company has obtained new ISIN: INE435A01051
from depositories for new face value of the equity sharesand the trading with the new face value was commencedon both BSE Limited and National Stock Exchange of IndiaLimited effective September 11,2024.
The Board of Directors at their Meeting held on May 8,2025 recommended a dividend of C1/- per equity shareof C2/- each, for approval of the Shareholders at theforthcoming Annual General Meeting, and is incompliancewith the Dividend Distribution Policy of the Company.The said Policy is disclosed on the Company's website:https://andhrapaper.com/wp-content/themes/andhra_paper/uploads/investors/1645517957Dividend%20Distribution%20Policy.pdf.
The Company sustains its core belief in “Customer First”and its endeavour to create value for the customers,“Serving you with Pride”.
The Customers choose Company's products for qualityapplications of Printing, Publishing and Converting. Despitesignificant market uncertainties, the capex incurred inupgradation of plant and machinery ensured that theCompany was able to use its inherit strength of product mixflexibility across machines to meet the changing Customerpreferences both in Writing & Printing and Value Addedapplication products. This resulted incremental YOY Salesof Truprint Ultra (39%), Truprint Ivory (20%), Pharma Print(13%), Stiffener (41%) and Cupstock Bottom (75%).
The Capex incurred during the year has ramped upmanufacturing facilities and capacity utilisation whichhas increased the operational efficiency, optimisationof processes which in turn ensure that your Company isfocused on delivering high-quality products thereby creatinga colossal distinguish from the competition offering productsup the value chain to the Customers. Apart from improvingexisting Critical to Quality parameters of existing productoffering, continuous endeavour is done to develop newproducts based on feedback from customers and channelpartners to make our products suit the changing endapplication requirements.
Additional capacity will generate surplus pulp, which willimprove profitability. Adequate wood inventory has reducedthe dependency on wood imports. Prudent treasury andworking capital management, new vendor managementsystem will improve margins. Planned delivery scheduleshelped overcome volatile trade flows.
The Company's fundamental value of “Think Customer”continues to produce desired outcomes to augmentcustomer value by way of offering 'right products for right
applications' at an amplified speed to meet customerrequirements.
• Sales of 2,26,288 MTs
• Domestic Sales of 2,17,142 MTs
• Substantial growth in Premium Maplitho Products likeTruprint Ultra (39%), Truprint Ivory (20%) and ValueAdded Products like Pharma Print (13%), Stiffener(41%) and Cupstock Bottom (75%)
Operational highlights
With the shifting market dynamics, the Company increasedits participation in value-added products, including SketchChoice, Stiffener, Straw Paper and Azurelaid.
Products
Y-o-Y sales growth
Cupstock Bottom
75%
Stiffener
41%
Truprint Ultra
39%
Truprint Ivory
20%
Pharma Print
13%
The Company had put in its paramount efforts to achieveOTIF delivery rate (On- Time-In-Full) at 96%, forecastaccuracy to 91%, and improved complaint closure to 90%that is uppermost tier in the Indian Paper Industry.
The Company is present in all segments of paper rangingfrom writing, printing, industrial and copier papers. TheCompany's share in the export was approximately 4% inFY 2025. It remained focused on producing improvedquality Maplitho Products and value-added products withhigher Net Sales Realisations to increase profitability.
Your Company has made significant strides in optimizingits operations and investing in technologies that driveboth efficiency and sustainability. The Board sanctionedcapital expenditure aggregating to C520.40 Crores beingimplemented in phased manner for the comprehensiverebuild and upgrade of critical plant and machinery atour Rajahmundry and Kadiyam manufacturing units. Thisinitiative replaces obsolete equipment and technology withcutting-edge solutions, aiming to significantly enhanceoperational efficiency, productivity, and product quality whilereducing our environmental footprint.
The Pulp Mill development at the Rajahmundry unit, whichbegan in 2023, focuses on these critical upgrades. Todate, C508.40 Crores of the earmarked amount has beenspent (including C84.81 Crores spent in May 2025, withthe remaining capital projects scheduled for completionby July 2025.
Our modernization program has successfully implemented
several key projects, delivering significant improvements:
Enhanced Pulp Production and Efficiency:
• Fiberline capacity upgraded to 630 TPD with theinstallation of a modified chip feeding system(Valmet G3 cooking technology) and an add-on washextraction screen set.
• New twin roll press technology improves unbleachedpulp washing and reduces alkali carryover to bleaching.
• Dhot technology in bleaching has reduced CLO2consumption to below 13 Kg/T, reinforcing ourcommitment to sustainable manufacturing.
• A new Valmet-designed tube-type evaporatorbody has increased weak black liquor evaporationcapacity to 280 TPH.
Improved Recovery Boiler and Chemical Recovery:
• The recovery boiler was rebuilt to 1500 TDS byreplacing pressure parts with Andritz-designed spacedtube-type coils, significantly improving reliability andsteam generation vital for energy self-sufficiency.
• A new 95 TPD Ash-leaching plant (Andritz technology)treats ESP ash, reducing corrosive chlorides (nowaround 5%) and potassium content in the recoveryliquor cycle, thereby enhancing boiler operationalreliability and thermal efficiency.
• The new 190 TPD lime kiln #3 and an upgraded re-causticizer plant (supplying 3200 M3/day white liquor)were successfully commissioned in May 2025.
• GLC-G3 technology has improved raw green liquorfiltration, reducing suspended solids to below 50 ppmand enhancing white liquor quality.
Superior Paper Quality and Expanded Capacity:
• Paper Machine #5 at Rajahmundry was upgraded witha new Voith film press size press and size kitchen,enabling the production of surface-sized paper withenhanced print quality and strength.
• A new size press and size kitchen were also installedfor KA#3 paper machine at Kadiyam, increasingmachine speed and contributing an incremental 10TPD to production.
• The Waste Paper Recycling Plant at Kadiyam wasupgraded to 110 TPD, strengthening our capabilities inutilizing recycled fibers.
Operational Enhancements and Sustainable
Technologies:
• Installation of a new Chipper (40 BDTPH) andan 8.5 MW TG.
• New flash drying technology and disc filtrationtechnology for lime mud drying have increasedlime kiln operational reliability, production capacity,and efficiency.
• A drag chain conveying system has reduced burnt limespillage and eliminated dust emissions.
• Major enhancements to the recovery boiler includedreplacing the platen-type superheater with a moreefficient spaced tube type, improving its performanceand longevity.
• A new 7th effect tube-type Valmet design Tubeltechnology evaporator body was integrated withexisting lamella evaporator bodies in our 4FEvaporators, optimizing the evaporation process.
Ongoing Projects for Long-Term Sustainable Growth:
We continue to invest in projects that underscore ourdedication to operational efficiency and sustainability:
• Non-Condensable Gas (NCG) Collection SystemUpgrade: This critical project will safely collect andincinerate highly pollutant, explosive, and corrosiveNCG gases. CNCG gases will be incinerated in thelime kiln and DNCG gases in the recovery boiler,significantly improving air quality and workplace safety.
o CNCG system start-up is planned during theAnnual Outage in CY 2025.
o DNCG system start-up is planned during theAnnual Outage in CY 2026.
• Ash Leaching Reject Treatment: A solution has beendeveloped to treat the inorganic rejects generated fromthe ash leaching process, which are characterizedby high COD levels. Project erection is currentlyunderway, with start-up and commissioning targetedfor mid-September 2025. This treatment initiative isexpected to reduce the load on ETP and enhance thequality of treated water.”
Green Field Expansion Project
In January 2023, the Board had given in-principle approvalto exploit opportunities in the Paper Board Segment throughexpansion and capacity addition by setting up an integratedGreen Field Project at Unit Kadiyam, East Godavari District,Andhra Pradesh. This proposed Mill Expansion Plan (MEP)includes the installation of a 1,75,000 TPA Paper BoardMachine, a 1,60,000 TPA Writing & Printing Paper machine,a 1,92,500 TPA New Chemical Wood Pulp mill, and an87,500 BD TPA BCTMP connected along with a RecoveryPlant (1500 TPD of BLS). The plan also involves theexpansion of the Co-generation Power Plant from 5.74 MWto 94 MW with a New Coal-fired Boiler and New TGs andauxiliary facilities in the existing paper mill at Unit: Kadiyam.
In this regard, the Company has filed the requisiteapplication with the Ministry of Environment, Forest &Climate Change (MoEF&CC) for Environmental Clearance.The environmental clearance process involves stagessuch as screening, scoping, public consultation includinga public hearing if required and appraisal by expertcommittees (EAC/SEAC).
While the expansion program was aggressively pursued,current sluggish market demand has led us to re-evaluateits immediate advancement. Given the significant capitalexpenditure involved, our strategy now focuses on pursuingthe expansion program and related approvals in a phasedmanner close to an anticipated revival in market demandaligning the expansion program with the profitability goals.
Tissue Paper Machine
In February 2024, the Board approved the installation ofa new tissue paper machine to produce various grades oftissues—facial, napkin, toilet, and towel—to tap into thegrowing market demand. Initially, the Company obtainedConsent to Establish from the Andhra Pradesh PollutionControl Board (APPCB) on January 5, 2024, for installationof a tissue machine with a capacity of 35,000 TPA at itsKadiam facility.
However, the Company has since decided to strategicallyrelocate the installation to its Rajahmundry unit to leveragethe upgraded infrastructure, including an upgraded boiler,enhanced steam generation, abundant water availability, arobust Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), established logistics,well equipped quality control laboratory and adequate powersupply. This move eliminates potential transportation costsassociated with transferring excess pulp from Rajahmundryto Kadiam. In contrast, Kadiam unit infrastructure need to beupgraded necessitating capital expenditure to support suchoperations. The Company will formally obtain necessaryapprovals from APPCB in this regard.
In May 2024, an agreement was signed with Valmet AB(Sweden) for the supply and commissioning of a tissuepaper production line with a capacity of up to 129 TPD,expected to be delivered within 16 months from the orderdate. Supporting infrastructure upgrades include theenhancement of power transmission lines from 33KV to132KV with an additional 7 MVA load, approved by theAndhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company onNovember 23, 2023.
The total approved capital expenditure for the project is C270crores, targeting a production capacity of 100 TPD. PostAPPCB's revised approval, commissioning and commercialoperations are planned in Q1 FY 2026-27.
Raw Material Security
The Company continues to prioritize Forestry Research &Development (R&D) aimed at enhancing farmers' incomefrom pulpwood plantations by increasing wood yield per unitarea while reducing input costs. Building on the encouragingoutcomes of the first phase of R&D projects, the Companyhas signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)with the Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding(IFGTB), Coimbatore, for a five-year period from 2024 to2028. Under this Phase-II collaboration, the Companyis advancing its scientific research programs to furtherstrengthen sustainable forestry practices.
Additionally, the Company has entered into a MoU with theInstitute of Forest Biodiversity (IFB), Hyderabad, to evaluatethe progress of its ongoing Farm Forestry program and toreceive strategic guidance for continuous improvement.
A key strategic focus is the phased transformation ofthe Farm Forestry program from low-yield seed-originplantations to high-yield clonal plantations. To support thistransition, the Company is expanding capacity buildingand infrastructure development to increase clonal plantproduction. In 2024, the Company partnered with 38nurseries in catchment areas to meet the growing demandfor clonal plants.
Farm Forestry extension remains a cornerstone of theCompany's engagement with rural communities. Thisincludes organizing village-level Meetings with farmers,providing training to nursery growers and farmers, sharingbest practices for pulpwood plantation development,and facilitating resolution of farmer concerns relatedto wood resource development and procurement. TheCompany supports farmers by supplying quality saplings atsubsidized rates, offering technical expertise for plantationestablishment, providing R&D support, and ensuring aready market for wood produce.
In 2024, the Company introduced the distribution ofEucalyptus clonal plants and improved Subabul seedsto further boost raw material availability. Under its FarmForestry program within the catchment area, the Companyhas successfully facilitated the distribution of 205 LakhCasuarina clones, 799 Lakh Casuarina seedlings, 8 LakhEucalyptus clones, 147 Lakh Subabul seedlings. Theseefforts have covered approximately 15,036 hectares ofland and generated 75.18 Lakh man-days of employment,significantly contributing to rural livelihood enhancementand raw material security.
Your Company continues to uphold high standards acrossits operations, consistently maintaining key international
certifications. Our Quality Management Systems andEnvironment Management Systems are continuallyaccredited under ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, respectively.These standards, updated in 2015, highlight the crucialrole of top management, proactive risk management, andadaptive change management in ensuring our businessremains sustainable.
We continue to hold OHSAS 18001 certification(Occupational Health and Safety Management System,), aninternationally recognized standard for effectively managingoccupational health and safety risks within our business.
Demonstrating our commitment to energy efficiency,we have initiated Certification of Energy ManagementSystem ISO: 50001:2018 and anticipate its completionduring FY 2025-26.
Energy Efficiency through PAT program: Your Companyis a Designated Consumer under the Ministry of Power'sPerform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) program, a criticalgovernment initiative aimed at enhancing industrial energyefficiency. We are pleased to report that Your Companysuccessfully met the energy consumption reduction targetsfor PAT Cycle I. However, the Company encounteredchallenges in achieving the targets for PAT Cycle II. Weare actively addressing the learnings from this cycle toenhance our future performance. For the financial year2024-25, the Company falls under PAT Cycle VII. To ensurerobust compliance and successfully meet the stipulatedrequirements, we have proactively appointed an authorizedthird-party agency to conduct a “Monitoring & Verification”(M&V) audit of our PAT Cycle VII targets, which is currentlyunderway. Through these concerted efforts, your Companyreaffirms its commitment to sustainable operations andcontinuous improvement in energy efficiency, aligning withthe overarching goals of the PAT program and our broaderenvironmental stewardship.
As on March 31, 2025, 46,137 Shareholders are holding19,80,58,455 Shares in dematerialised mode constituting99.6% of the paid up Equity Share Capital and 1323shareholders are holding 791,740 shares in physicalmode constituting 0.4% paid up Equity Share Capital ofthe Company.
The Report on Management's Discussion and Analysis,as required under clause 2(e) of Regulation 34 read withSchedule V of SEBI (Listing Obligations and DisclosureRequirements) Regulations, 2015 covering industrystructure and developments, opportunities and threats,outlook, discussion on financial performance, etc., iscontained in “Management Discussion and Analysis Report”that forms an integral part of this Report.
The Company's agenda for engaging and developing itsemployees encompasses a range of initiatives aimed atattracting, nurturing, and retaining talent. Key focus areasinclude diversity and inclusion, succession planning, buildinga strong talent pool for critical positions, implementing qualityof life programs, and investing in leadership development.
We take a professional approach to industrial relations,consistently treating our employees with dignity and respectwhile upholding the core principles of labour relations.
We believe that an engaged and motivated workforce isessential to our continued success. As an employee-centricorganization, we are committed to promoting work-lifebalance and encouraging a healthy lifestyle. In support ofthis, we organize various workshops and training programsfocused on enhancing both the quality of life and leadershipcapabilities of our team. Additionally, our in-house gym andrecreation club, managed by the Staff Club Committee,offer employees opportunities for fitness and leisure.
To further boost employee morale and foster a sense ofcommunity, we host a variety of events such as SeniorManagement Team Get-Togethers, garden parties, Diwalicelebrations, movie screenings, and live cricket telecasts.
In FY 2024-25, the Company made significant strides instrengthening its IT infrastructure and digital capabilities todrive operational efficiency, security, and cost optimization.Strategic upgrades across hardware, communicationnetworks, and business applications were implementedto align with organizational objectives and ensuresustainable growth.
a) Time & Attendance System Upgrade: IncorporatedemSphere, integrating facial recognition for seamlessattendance management, enhanced security, and a76% reduction in recurring costs.
b) Communication Infrastructure Enhancement:Migrated to Jio and Airtel (excluding Hyderabad),doubling bandwidth, improving uptime, and reducingcommunication expenses by 50%.
c) In-House Farm Forestry Application: Developed acustom desktop and mobile solution, empowering fieldstaff with greater control while eliminating 100% ofthird-party licensing costs.
d) Advanced Security Integration: Deployed facialrecognition-based door access control at criticaladministrative locations, strengthening physicalsecurity and preventing unauthorized access.
e) Financial Process Automation: Integrated banking
systems with enterprise resource planning (SAP)software to streamline payment processes,
enhance reconciliation accuracy, and improvetransaction visibility.
f) Network Security Upgrade: Transitioned from legacysystems to next-generation Palo Alto firewalls forsuperior threat prevention, simplified management,and cost savings.
g) Endpoint Security Modernization: Implemented PaloAlto Cortex XDR for AI-driven threat detection andbehavioural analytics, resulting in a 46% reduction incombined security expenses.
h) File Server Modernization: Replaced aging serverswith high-capacity (50 TB) HP servers, ensuringsecure, scalable, and faster file access.
i) Vehicle Tracking System: Introduced GPS trackingin all Farm Forestry and pooled vehicles for real¬time monitoring, route optimization, and enhancedfleet security.
j) Email Platform Migration: Transitioned to a cost-effective email solution, achieving savings of C55 Lakhsannually while ensuring comparable service quality.
These initiatives have collectively reinforced the Company'soperational resilience, improved data security, and deliveredsignificant cost efficiencies.
The Company is deeply committed to fostering inclusivegrowth and supporting the communities in which it operates,considering them a key stakeholder. This commitment isdemonstrated through comprehensive Corporate SocialResponsibility (CSR) initiatives that directly address thegenuine requirements of the local populace.
The Company is dedicated to providing substantialinfrastructure support to schools and educational institutionsin and around its operational areas of Rajahmundryand Kadiyam. This commitment primarily benefits lessprivileged sections of society and aims to encourage schoolattendance. Its support encompasses the constructionof essential facilities such as classrooms, dining sheds,and compound walls, as well as providing furniture andcomputer equipment, Merit scholarship all designed tocreate a conducive learning environment.
In the realm of Health & Wellness, the Company hasbeen instrumental in providing infrastructure facilities toCommunity Health Centers by supplying critical medicalinstruments such as ultrasound machines, fetal dopplers,X-ray units, alongside essential amenities like AC units, ROplants, and parking sheds. Support also extends to GeneralHospitals through the provision of specialized medical
equipment for diagnosis, treatment, surgery and patientcare and monitoring.
Community development and livelihood interventionsare central to the Company's efforts. This includes theestablishment of Skill Development Centers, constructionof community halls, construction of culverts in paddy fields,drains, supplying drinking water, providing tractors for solidwaste management, street-lights, construction of toiletsand bathing ghats for villagers. Furthermore, it supportswomen empowerment through tailoring centers for skilldevelopment provides essential supplies and infra supportto Anganwadi Centres.
Beyond these core areas, the Company actively cooperateswith local administration to support projects that directly aidand assist the general public. This includes the constructionof water sump and pump house for diverting excesswater during rainy season into canals to avoid floodingin neighbourhood villages, supplying food kits to flood-affected people, promoting public safety through initiativeslike providing helmets for safety campaigns and undertakingcleaning of river bund under the swatch bharat campaign.
Through these diverse activities, the Company consistentlystrives for the overall development and welfare of society,focusing on enhancing educational opportunities, improvinghealthcare access, strengthening community infrastructure,and empowering less privileged sections of society.
The Company has adopted a CSR Policy which is placedon the Company's website: www.andhrapaper.com. TheMembers of Corporate Social Responsibility Committee ason March 31,2025 comprised of:
Mr. Virendraa Bangur
Chairman
Mr. Saurabh Bangur
Member
Mr. Sudarshan V. Somani
Mr. Virendra Sinha
The Annual Report on CSR activities is attached asAnnexure - 1 to this report.
During the year, the Company has won the “BRONZE” forthe Best Safety performer for the year 2024
(Category- Chemical & Paper Industries) at CII(Confederation of Indian Industry) Andhra Pradesh IndustrialSafety excellence awards 2024 for Unit: Rajahmundry.
Your Company has in place a Policy on Materiality ofRelated Party Transactions and dealing with RelatedParty Transactions, which governs the review andapproval process for all related party transactions. All such
transactions are placed before the Audit Committee forprior approval. Omnibus approvals are also obtained fortransactions that are repetitive in nature. Where the exactvalue of transactions cannot be estimated, the Committeegrants approval based on reasonable projections for thefinancial year.
All related party transactions entered into during the yearunder review were in the ordinary course of business and onan arm's length basis. There were no material or significantrelated party transactions with promoters, promoter groupentities, directors, or key managerial personnel that couldpotentially conflict with the interests of the Company at large.Accordingly, disclosure in Form AOC-2 is not applicable.However, Form AOC-2 is appended as Annexure 2 forcompleteness.”
The Board of Directors approved a Policy on Related PartyTransactions which is placed on the Company's websitehttps://andhrapaper.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Policy-on-related-party-transactions-1.pdf. The disclosureson related party transactions are given in Notes to thefinancial statements.
The Company has adopted the Nomination andRemuneration Committee Charter which contains, inter alia,framework for Directors' appointment and remuneration,criteria for determining the qualifications, positive attributes,independence of a director and other matters provided underSection 178(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 (“The Act”).
Pursuant to Section 178(4) of the Act, the Company alsoadopted Remuneration Policy relating to remunerationfor the Directors, Key Managerial Personnel and SeniorExecutives in the rank of Vice President and above. TheRemuneration Policy is placed on Company's websitehttps://andhrapaper.com/wp-content/themes/andhra_paper/uploads/investors/1599824266Remuneration%20Policy.pdf
Particulars of conservation of energy, technology absorptionand foreign exchange earnings and outgo as required underSection 134(3)(m) of the Act read with Rule 8(3) of theCompanies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 are given in Annexure -3 attached to this Report.
The Company has a robust business risk managementframework to proactively identify and evaluate potentialbusiness risks and opportunities. This framework aimsto create transparency, minimize adverse impact of riskson the business objectives and enhance the Company's
competitive advantage. The Indian Paper ManufacturersAssociation (IPMA) has pinpointed several key concerns forthe domestic paper industry such as Raw Material scarcity,surge in cheaper imports, unfavourable FTAs, Diversionof excess substandard inventory to India, lack of policysupport and stringent regulations as major areas of concernfor the domestic paper industry. The risks associated withthe business, their description and the measures beingundertaken by the Company to mitigate the risks is moredetailed in the Management and Discussion AnalysisReport forming part of this annual report.
During the year, Mr. Sitaram Sharma, Non-ExecutiveIndependent Director, expressed inability to continue in viewof his health issues and ceased from the directorship of theCompany w.e.f closure of business hours of March 31,2025post expiry of the first term as in independent Director. TheBoard placed on record its appreciation for the excellentcontribution made by Mr. Sitaram Sharma during his tenureas a Non-Executive Independent Director.
Effective November 4, 2024, Mr. S.K. Bangur steppeddown as Managing Director and continues to serve as theChairman & Non-Executive Director of the Company andsimultaneously, Mr. Saurabh Bangur assumed the role ofManaging Director, elevated from his previous position asJoint Managing Director.
During the year, Mr. Virendra Sinha has been re-appointedas Non-Executive & Independent Director for second termfor a period of 3 years w.e.f. April 1,2025 to March 31,2028.
Mr. Virendraa Bangur, Non-Executive Director, is liable toretire by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting,as per the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and beingeligible, offered himself for reappointment.
The Board of Directors, on the recommendation ofNomination and Remuneration Committee, reappointedMrs. Papia Sengupta as an Independent Director of theCompany for second term for a period of 3 years effectiveSeptember 1, 2025 to August 31, 2028 subject to approvalof shareholders at the ensuing Annual General Meeting.
The Board commends their reappointment.
Mr. Virendra Sinha, Mrs. Papia Sengupta, Mr. Arun KumarSureka and Mr. Sudarshan Vijaynarain Somani areIndependent Directors of the Company.
All Independent Directors have given declarations thatthey meet the criteria of independence as laid down underSection 149 (6) of the Act and Regulations 16(1 )(b) and25(8) of Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations,2015 (“the SEBI Listing Regulations”) and that they areindependent from the Management of the Company andthey are not aware of any circumstance or situation, whichexist or may be reasonably anticipated, that could impair orimpact his ability to discharge his duties with an objectiveindependent judgment and without any external influence.
Further, all the Independent Directors have givendeclarations that they complied with the provisions ofCompanies (Appointment and Qualifications of Directors)Rules, 2014. Further, they have given declarations that theyhave complied with the Code for Independent Directorsprescribed in Schedule IV to the Act and the Code ofBusiness Conduct and Ethics of the Company.
A separate Meeting of Independent Directors was heldon March 18, 2025. All the Independent Directors of theCompany attended the said Meeting.
As on March 31, 2025, Mr. Saurabh Bangur, ManagingDirector, Mr. Mukesh Jain, Whole-time Director (ExecutiveDirector), Mr. Rajesh Bothra, Chief Financial Officer andMr. Bijay Kumar Sanku, Company Secretary are the KeyManagerial Personnel of the Company.
During the year under review, 4 (Four) Board Meetings and4 (Four) Audit Committee Meetings were held. The maximuminterval between any two Meetings did not exceed 120 days,as prescribed by the Companies Act, 2013. The details ofthe Meetings held are given in the Corporate GovernanceReport forming part of this Report.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Act and SEBI ListingRegulations, the Annual performance evaluation of Board,Committees of the Board, Chairman, Managing Directorand Whole-time Director (Executive Director) has beencarried out based on various parameters.
A separate exercise for the financial year 2024-25 wascarried out to evaluate the performance of all individualdirectors including Independent Directors who wereevaluated on parameters such as level of engagement andcontribution, independence of judgment, safeguarding theinterests of the Company and its minority shareholders etc.
At the time of appointing a Director, a formal letter ofappointment is issued, clearly outlining their role, functions,duties, and responsibilities as a Director of the Company.This letter, in compliance with applicable laws, also detailsthe statutory obligations and compliances expected from
them under the Companies Act, 2013, the SEBI (ListingObligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations,2015, and other relevant laws and regulations. Furthermore,it explicitly covers aspects such as the Code of Conduct,Insider Trading Code, and the policy on Related PartyTransactions, as mandated by SEBI LODR.
To foster informed decision-making and ensure goodgovernance, the Board of Directors and its Committeesare consistently apprised by management. Theseregular updates provide a holistic view of the Company'slandscape, covering Business operations and financialperformance, Detailed insights into operational efficiencyand the Company's financial health, Progress anddevelopments regarding key strategic objectives andgrowth plans, analysis of prevailing market scenario,competitive landscape, identification of potential headwinds,potential risks and mitigation strategies, opportunities andchallenges and updates on adherence to the CompaniesAct, 2013, SEBI (Listing Obligations and DisclosureRequirements) Regulations, 2015, and other pertinentlaws and regulations, ensuring the Company operateswithin the prescribed legal framework. This continuous andcritical flow of information empowers Directors to effectivelydischarge their fiduciary duties, exercise diligent oversight,and make well-considered decisions that contribute directlyto the Company's sustainable growth and the enhancementof shareholder value.
Details of Familiarization of Directors are disclosed on theCompany's website www.andhrapaper.com.
The Audit Committee as on March 31, 2025 comprises ofMr. Sudarshan V. Somani as Chairman and Mr. VirendraSinha, Mr. Arun Kumar Sureka and Mr Saurabh Bangur asother Members. All the recommendations made by the AuditCommittee were accepted by the Board.
The information required pursuant to Section 197 readwith Rule 5 (1) of the Companies (Appointment andRemuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014in respect of employees of the Company, is provided inAnnexure-4. Having regard to the provisions of the secondproviso to Section 136(1) of the Act, the Annual Reportexcluding the aforesaid information is being sent to themembers of the Company. If any Member is interestedin obtaining information on Rule 5 (2) of the Companies(Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel)Rules, 2014, such member may, write to the CompanySecretary at the Registered Office in this regard or caninspect the related documents/information at the RegisteredOffice of the Company.
The Company has adopted Whistle Blower Policy to dealwith instance of fraud or any unethical or improper practices.A copy of this Policy is available on the Company's websitehttps://andhrapaper.com/wp-content/themes/andhra_paper/uploads/investors/1658382966Whistle%20Blower%20Policy%20modified%20on%2021.07.2022.
The Company established internal financial control(s)commensurate with the size, scale and complexity of theoperations. Internal audit function is being handled bya professional firm of chartered accountants. The mainfunction of Internal Audit is to monitor and evaluate adequacyof internal control system in the Company, its compliancewith the operating systems, accounting procedures andpolicies at all locations of the Company. Based on the reportof internal audit function, process owners take correctiveaction in their respective areas and thereby strengthenthe controls. Significant audit observations and correctiveactions are reported to the Audit Committee.
Statutory Auditors audited the Internal Financial Controls(IFC) over financial reporting of the Company as of March31,2025 in conjunction with audit of the financial statementsof the Company for the year ended on that date. Unmodifiedopinion on IFC was given by them.
The Report of Auditors for the financial Year 2024-25 doesnot have any qualifications, reservations or adverse remarks.The Report is enclosed with the financial statements in thisAnnual Report.
Messrs MSKA & Associates, Chartered Accountants,Statutory Auditors of the Company have been appointed, fora term of five years, to hold office from the conclusion of 58thAnnual General Meeting till the conclusion of 63rd AnnualGeneral Meeting corresponding to the financial years from2022-23 to 2026-27.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Act and theCompanies (Appointment and Remuneration of ManagerialPersonnel) Rules, 2014, the Company had appointed M/s.D. Hanumanta Raju & Co., a firm of Company Secretariesto undertake the secretarial audit of the Company for thefinancial year 2024-25. Secretarial Audit Report underSection 204(1) of the Act issued by M/s. D. HanumantaRaju & Co., Practicing Company Secretaries, in respectof financial year 2024-25 is attached as Annexure - 5 tothis Report.
Based on the recommendations of Audit Committee, M/s.Hanumanta Raju & Co., Practicing Company Secretaries,Hyderabad has been appointed as Secretarial Auditorsof the Company for a period of 5 years from FY 2025-26to FY 2029-30 subject to approval of shareholders at theensuing Annual General Meeting.
The Secretarial Audit Report includes an observationregarding a fine imposed by the Stock Exchanges (BSE andNSE) for an alleged non-compliance with Regulation 17(1)(A) of the SEBI LODR Regulations, 2015. This relates toMr. S.K. Bangur's transition from Managing Director to Non¬Executive Director and Chairman while he attained 75 yearsof age, which requires prior approval of member. While theExchanges levied a fine of C94,000 each (totalling C188,000excluding GST) for the quarter ended March 31, 2025,the Company firmly believes it is in full compliance withthe relevant provisions. An application for waiver of thesefines, providing detailed justification, has been submittedand a formal decision by the designated exchange NSEis awaited. As on May 8, 2025 the Company awaits theExchanges decision.”
M/s. Batliboi & Purohit, Chartered Accountants, Mumbaiwere appointed as the Internal Auditors for FY 2024-25.The internal audit reports and the suggestions made ona quarterly basis by the auditors, during the year underreview, were duly noted by the Board and acted upon. TheBoard of Directors, based on the recommendation of theAudit Committee have re-appointed the said firm as theInternal Auditors of your Company for the FY 2025-26.
In terms of Section 148 of the Act read with the Companies(Audit & Auditors) Rules, 2014, the Board at their Meetingheld on May 8, 2025, on the recommendation of AuditCommittee, appointed M/s. Narasimha Murthy & Co., CostAccountants as Cost Auditors of the Company for thefinancial year 2025-26, at a remuneration of C4.50 Lakhsplus applicable taxes and reimbursement of out-of-pocketexpenses and their remuneration is being submitted forratification by the Members at the forthcoming AnnualGeneral Meeting.
Cost accounting records for the financial year under reviewwere maintained as per the Companies (Cost Recordsand Audit) Rules, 2014. M/s. Narasimha Murthy & Co,Cost Accountants were appointed as Cost Auditors of theCompany to audit the Cost Records for the year endedMarch 31, 2025. The Cost Audit Report for the financialyear ended March 31, 2024 was filed with the Ministry of
Corporate Affairs in August, 2024. The Cost auditors haveaudited and expressed satisfaction about the maintenanceof cost audit records, internal controls and issued anunqualified report.
The Cost Audit Report for the year ended March 31, 2025will be filed within the due date.
The Company has not invited, accepted or renewed anydeposits under chapter V of Companies act, 2013. That thecompany has not been accepted any deposits, so therewas no obligation arise to repay or pay any interest andno amount on account of principal or interest on depositswas outstanding as on the date of the balance sheet andthus no default.
The particulars of loans, guarantees, and investmentscovered under the provisions of Section 186 of the Act havebeen disclosed in the financial statements.
Andhra Paper Foundation (Foundation), wholly-ownedsubsidiary ceased operations and activities since 2022 asthe parent company directly absorbed all Corporate SocialResponsibility (CSR) initiatives. The Foundation's originalpurpose became redundant, leading to unnecessarycompliance burdens. Consequently, the Foundationsurrendered its Sections 12AA and 80G registrations underthe Income Tax Act, 1961. An application was filed with theconcerned Regional Director to strike off the Foundationunder Section 248 of the Companies Act, 2013. TheRegional Director vide its order dated November 11, 2024allowed conversion into a private limited company, AndhraPaper Private Limited (APPL). Subsequently, APPL filedForm STK-2 with the Registrar of Companies, Vijayawada,to strike off its name from the Register of Companies underSection 248 of the Companies Act, 2013. As on May 8,2025 the application status is showing as “Under Processof Striking off”.
A statement containing salient features of the financialstatement of Foundation as on November 11, 2024 isattached as Annexure - 6 to this Report.
In terms of Section 92(3) of the Act, the Annual Returnfor the financial year ended March 31, 2025 is displayedon the website of the Company https://andhrapaper.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Draft-Annual-Return-for-the-financial-year-ended-March-31-2025.pdf
Pursuant to Regulation 34 of the SEBI Listing Regulations,'Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report' formspart of this Report as Annexure - 7, which describes theinitiatives taken by the Company from an Environmental,Social and Governance perspective.
Material changes and commitments affectingthe financial position of the Company whichoccurred between end of financial year and dateof the Report
There was no change in the nature of business of theCompany during the year. There were no material changesand commitments affecting the financial position of theCompany which occurred between end of financial year anddate of the report.
The Board of Directors hereby confirms and declares that:
• In the preparation of final accounts for the year endedMarch 31, 2025 the applicable accounting standardshad been followed;
• they had selected such accounting policies andapplied them consistently and made judgements andestimates that are reasonable and prudent so as togive a true and fair view of the state of affairs of theCompany at the financial year end March 31,2025 andof the profit and loss of the Company for the year;
• they had taken proper and sufficient care for themaintenance of adequate accounting records inaccordance with the provisions of Companies Act,2013 for safeguarding the assets of the Companyand for preventing and detecting fraud and otherirregularities;
• they had prepared the accounts for the year endedMarch 31,2025 on a 'going concern' basis;
• they had laid down internal financial controls to befollowed by the Company and that such internalfinancial controls are adequate and were operatingeffectively;
• they had devised proper systems to ensure compliancewith the provisions of all applicable laws and that suchsystems were adequate and operating effectively.
• There were no significant and material orders passedby the regulators or courts or tribunals which wouldimpact the going concern status of the Company andits future operations.
• During the year under review, neither the statutoryauditors nor the secretarial auditor has reported tothe audit committee, under Section 143 (12) of theCompanies Act, 2013, any instances of fraud committedagainst the Company by its officers or employees.
• The Company has zero tolerance for sexualharassment at workplace and has adopted a policyon prevention, prohibition and redressal of sexualharassment at workplace in line with the provisionsof the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 andthe Rules thereunder for prevention and redressalof complaints of sexual harassment at workplace.Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) has been setup to redress complaints received regarding sexualharassment. All women employees (permanent,contractual, temporary, trainees) are covered underthis policy. During the year, no complaints werereceived by the Company under Sexual Harassmentof Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition andRedressal) Act, 2013.
• There is no application or proceeding pending under
Insolvency and bankruptcy code 2016
• The company has complied with all the applicablelaws, rules, regulations and secretarial standards
• All Policies as required under the Act or the SEBIListing Regulations are available on the website of theCompany www.andhrapaper.com.
• Details of difference between amount of the valuationdone at the time of one-time settlement and thevaluation done while taking loan from the Banks orFinancial Institutions along with the reasons thereof:Not applicable.
The Board of Directors wish to place on record their gratitudeto the Central Government, Government of Andhra Pradesh,Government of Telangana and Company's Bankers for theircontinued support during the year.
The Board of Directors wish to convey their thanks to thevalued customers and dealers for their continued patronageand place on record their appreciation of the contributionmade by all the employees during the year under review.
For and on behalf of the Board
Place: Rajahmundry Shree Kumar Bangur
Date: May 08, 2025 Chairman & Non-Executive Director