To the Members,
Your Directors present their 71 Annual Report and the Audited Statement of Accounts for
the year ended 31 March, 2025.
1. Financial Results
Rs. in crores
|
Consolidated |
Standalone |
|
2024-25 |
2023-24 |
2024-25 |
2023-24 |
Total income |
15,737 |
12,734 |
11,696 |
8,988 |
Profit for the year after meeting all expenses but before |
1,441 |
728 |
1,127 |
822 |
interest and depreciation |
|
|
|
|
Interest |
62 |
56 |
35 |
21 |
Depreciation and amortisation |
62 |
48 |
56 |
43 |
Profit before share of profit/(loss) of joint ventures and |
1,317 |
624 |
1,036 |
758 |
associates and tax |
|
|
|
|
Share of profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates |
(126) |
(138) |
-- |
-- |
Profit before tax |
1,191 |
486 |
1,036 |
758 |
Tax expenses |
357 |
238 |
259 |
154 |
Profit after tax |
834 |
248 |
777 |
604 |
Other comprehensive income (net) |
34 |
255 |
39 |
262 |
Total comprehensive income |
868 |
503 |
816 |
866 |
2. Operations
In recent years, the global economy has encountered numerous challenges encompassing
geopolitical, economic, and social issues. International trade, a cornerstone of a
globalised economy, has significantly contributed to the rapid development witnessed over
the past century through cross-border exchange of goods and services. However,
uncertainties stemming from the United States' trade conflicts with various countries have
prompted the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to lower its economic outlook for the US.
The IMF cautions that such trade disputes could weaken global growth and elevate inflation
rates.
Amid a plethora of global challenges and uncertainties, India's economy is expected to
be a bright spot, supported by easing inflation, robust growth in Goods and Services Tax
(GST), and positive market sentiment, which fosters optimism for a strong recovery. The
fiscal deficit for the fiscal year 2026 is projected to be 4.4% of
GrossDomesticProduct(GDP).TheGovernment'sbudget includes significant tax reductions,
estimated to save
` 1.0 trillion, which is expected to boost consumption and stimulate economic growth.
The Company maintained its growth trajectory and increased its top line for the year,
driven by a strong summer season for the Room Air Conditioner (RAC) industry.
Voltas achieved several key milestones, becoming the first brand to surpass 2.5 million AC
units in 2024-25, and recorded the highest ever Air Cooler sale of over 0.5 million units.
During the year, Voltbek also recorded sales of over 1 million Refrigerators and Washing
Machines each, establishing itself as the fastest-growing Home Appliances brand in the
country. The Company continued its profitable growth in the Domestic Projects business and
maintained a stable International Projects business. These accomplishments were made
possible through strategic planning, extensive market reach, a capable sales force, an
expanded product range with enhanced attributes, and increased participation across
multiple distribution channels.
With rising temperatures, the demand for cooling and comfort products has increased
significantly, propelling the Unitary Cooling Products (UCP) business to new heights. The
Room Air Conditioners (RAC) category experienced strong demand for premium products,
particularly 5-star rated units, driven by customers' preference for advanced features and
energy-e_cient products. The Company's commitment to meeting market demand and customer
expectations by providing comfort and convenience, along with effective distribution and
supply chain strategies, enabled Voltas to maintain its leadership position with a
year-to-date market share of ~19%. Market reports also indicate that Voltas achieved
growth in line with the industry trends.
The Company's overall growth was sustained through a combination of 24/7 factory
operations and a steady ramp-up of its newly launched facility in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Consistent backing from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) has also been instrumental
in fulfilling market demand.
The Company commenced commercial production at its Room Air Conditioner manufacturing
facility in Chennai during the current year. This new factory has helped cater to
increased demand and balance the supply chain, particularly in the Southern and Western
markets of India. With its proposed growth plans and vision of leading industry growth in
the Air Conditioner market, the Company is planning to further scale up its capacity,
especially at its fully backward-integrated Room Air Conditioner factory in Chennai.
The Commercial Refrigeration (CR) business faced challenges due to inventory
liquidation and reduced customer capital expenditures, which impacted margins during the
fiscal year. Despite this, growth was seen across all product categories. However, with
open orders for CR products, and the Company's commitment to providing consumers with an
enhanced product experience from the new factory, Voltas envisages a favourable outcome
and overall growth from this category in the next few months.
The Air Cooler business experienced significant growth of over 70% this year. Certain
strategic initiatives taken during the year facilitated the successful distribution of
both Air Coolers and Water Heaters. As of March, Voltas had achieved an 8.5% year-to-date
(YTD) market share in the Air Cooler category, establishing itself as one of the top three
brands. Additionally, in the Water Heaters category, collaborations with distributors and
sub-dealers contributed to the Company's strong performance, which was received
positively.
The Commercial Air Conditioning (CAC) business recorded steady performance during the
year, driven by higher sales of Chillers, Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems, Light
Commercial ACs, Ductables and Packaged ACs. The higher volume of margin-accretive product
sales, value engineering initiatives, improved labour productivity, and enhanced mix of
AMC jobs positively affected the bottom line. With a positive conversion of product sales
to AMC jobs and a high order pipeline of retrofit jobs, the vertical is expected to
achieve consistent growth. The focus on collections contributed to a favourable working
capital for the business.
Voltbek Home Appliances Private Limited, our home appliances brand, continued to excel
with consistent month-over-month growth. During the financial year ended 31 March, 2025,
the industry reported only single-digit growth in Washing Machines and negligible growth
in Refrigerators. However, Voltbek's performance remained remarkable, with a volume growth
of 57%. This growth was further complemented by a significant increase in market share. As
of YTD March 2025, the Voltbek's market share improved to 8.7% for Washing Machines and
5.3% for Refrigerators.
The performance in Semi-Automatic Washing Machines exceeded expectations, making
Voltbek the second-largest player in the product category, with a YTD market share of
15.3%. Additionally, a third-party report recognised Voltbek's Dishwasher category as a
market leader in the e-commerce channel.
Voltbek has leveraged its manufacturing capabilities to produce a complete range of
refrigerators in India, becoming a fully Made-in-India brand. By leveraging technology
across all product categories, Voltbek plans to drive and sustain future growth. Voltbek's
extensive range of Washing Machines, with SKUs across categories, will help it achieve its
goal of increasing market share. In terms of profitability, increased volume and various
value engineering measures helped improve margins and minimise losses. While business
continued to grow across categories, overall profitability remained a challenge due to the
product category mix. Voltbek continues to focus on enhancing operational efficiencies to
drive improved profitability.
The Domestic Projects business, encompassing Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing
(MEP), Water, Electrical, and Solar projects, has been expanding at a strong CAGR of over
23%, reflecting strong governance and management. During the
year,thebusinessadoptedaselectiveprojectbookingstrategy and implemented robust project
execution governance, ensuring profitability, effective working capital management, and a
high ROCE. This approach has helped foster a healthy pre-qualification experience
(PQE), which is crucial for maintaining a positive business outlook.
Key projects executed by the business include Adani Data Centre, Tata Power Solar
Module and Cell Plant, Tata Electronic Jasmine and Marigold Project at Hosur, Blupine
Solar Project in Gujarat, various State Water and Sanitation Mission (SWSM) and Rural
Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) projects in UP and Odisha, and Revamped Distribution
Sector Scheme (RDSS) projects in MP.
For the International Projects business, projects in the UAE and Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia continued to deliver satisfactory performance, driving revenue growth. Strong
project execution and timely assessment of costs and profitability ensured a positive
performance despite facing challenges for the last few quarters. For the two Bank
Guarantee encashment matters, which were contested by the Company, the Arbitration awards
were decided in the Company's favour. While the collection of proceeds could take some
time, the Company's efforts to demonstrate the fulfilment of its obligations and contest
unwarranted encashments have been successful. The Company focuses on the efficient
execution of existing ongoing projects, including the collection of due receivables within
contractual timelines, to minimise exposure. As of
31 March, 2025, the carry-forward order book for the Project Businesses was in excess
ofRs. 6,500 crores.
The Board of Directors of the Company, with an objective to house the International
Business operations of the Company under a separate entity, i.e., Universal MEP Projects
Pte Limited (UMPPL), in the Republic of Singapore, approved the proposal for transfer of
overseas branch operations in the UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) on a slump sale basis by
execution of Business Transfer Agreements (BTAs) for each branch separately. Earlier, the
Board had also approved the transfer of direct investments/shareholding of the Company in
certain overseas subsidiaries to UMPPL through Share Purchase Agreements (SPAs). UMPPL is
a 100% subsidiary of Voltas Netherlands B.V., which is a 100% subsidiary of Voltas
Limited.
A new entity, Universal MEP Contracting L.L.C. (subsidiary of UMPPL), has been set up
in the UAE to pursue the Project's business and the Company's UAE branch business
operations comprising all ongoing projects, including projects under the Defects Liability
Period (DLP), along with the relevant employees, pre-qualifications, project-related
assets and liabilities, among others, are proposed to be transferred to this new entity.
The BTAs for the transfer of UAE branch business are targeted to be consummated in 2025-26
upon satisfactory completion of certain conditions precedent in accordance with the terms
of the BTA. During 2024-25, the Company has completed the transfer of its direct
shareholding in subsidiary companies Weathermaker FZE (100%), UAE; Saudi Ensas
Company for Engineering Services W.L.L. (92%), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; and Lalbuksh
Voltas Engineering Services & Trading L.L.C. (20%), Sultanate of Oman - to UMPPL.
Post-transfer, the Company's economic interest in these overseas branches and subsidiary
companies remain intact. The Mining and Construction Equipment business showed positive
momentum on the top line, ensuring continuity in operations and maintenance jobs, as well
as the sale of power screen machines. However, the revenue mix and challenges in job
renewals at sustained margins limited the ability to translate top line growth into bottom-line
growth. Going forward, the expected increase in coal production in both Mozambique and
India is expected to enhance business opportunities with existing contracts. Additionally,
the team's efforts to grow the business beyond existing contracts and geographies provide
assurance of strong and optimal performance from the vertical.
The Textile Machinery business globally faced significant challenges due to
geopolitical issues in Europe and China, political unrest in Bangladesh, and supply chain
disruptions in the industry. Stagnant yarn prices also impacted the business. These
dynamics led to low capital expenditure across the sector during the year, resulting in
under-performance and a decline in revenue for the business. Demand and margins for the
Company's agency business remained under pressure throughout the year. However, its
After-Sales and Post-Spinning business demonstrated positive performance. With a focus on
growing its presence and reach in the Spinning Machinery, Post-Spinning, and After-Sales
segments, the Company is making efforts to navigate the headwinds in the business.
The Company reported higher consolidated total revenue from operations atRs. 15,413
crores compared to
` 12,481 crores last year, registering an increase of 23%. The consolidated profit
before share of profit/loss from joint ventures and associates and tax wasRs. 1,317
crores, and the consolidated net profit after tax wasRs. 834 crores. Voltas ended the year
with an earnings per share ofRs. 25.43 (face value per share ofRs. 1).
Further, during the year, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a Long-Term
Incentive Scheme 2024 (Scheme), commencing from 2024-25 and ending in 2026-27. This
scheme was introduced to drive the Company's performance and motivate and retain key
talent. Under the Scheme, eligible employees of the Company, upon achieving the specified
performance criteria and maintaining undisputed employment with the Company (except in
cases of retirement, contract completion, and death), will be entitled to the Long-Term
Incentive (LTI), which will be paid out in cash. The final incentive value and the date of
payment of LTI to eligible employees will be decided by the Nomination and Remuneration
Committee (NRC)/Board from time to time.
The Company's balance sheet remained strong and healthy. Borrowings were primarily for
overseas operations and capacity expansion projects in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. Tight
control of working capital, with a focus on collections in the Projects business, improved
overall cash flow and investments.
3. Reserves
An amount ofRs. 20 crores was transferred to the General Reserve out of the Profit
available for appropriation.
4. Dividend Distribution Policy
In accordance with Regulation 43A of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (Listing Regulations), the Board of Directors of the
Company have adopted a Dividend Distribution Policy (Policy) based on the need to balance
the twin objectives of appropriately rewarding the Company's shareholders with a dividend
and conserving resources to meet its future requirements. The Policy is available on the
Company's website at:
https://www.voltas.in/images/_ansel_image_collector/ DIVIDEND_DISTRIBUTION_POLICY_1.pdf
5. Dividend
Based on the Company's performance and keeping in mind the shareholders' interest, the
Directors recommend a dividend ofRs. 7 per equity share ofRs. 1 each (700%) for the year
2024-25 (2023-24: 550%). The dividend would result in a cash outflow of aroundRs. 232
crores, reflecting a payout of 29.81% of the Net Profit.
The dividend on equity shares is subject to the Shareholders' approval at the 71 Annual
General Meeting (AGM) scheduled to be held on 08 July, 2025. The Record Date for the
purpose of payment of the dividend for the year ended 31 March, 2025, is 20 June, 2025.
6. Finance
Cash management, profitability improvement, forecasting, and budgeting remained key
focus areas for the Company. Robust working capital management and efficient utilisation
of available funds have resulted in better management of cash surplus, ensuring financial
stability, compliance, and support for strategic growth drivers.
In recent years, the Company capitalised on various government initiatives promoting
self-sustainability and Make -in-India'. Towards this end, the Company
invested in greenfield manufacturing capacity expansion for Air Conditioners and
Commercial Refrigeration products by setting up new facilities in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.
The Company deployed capital expenditure of aroundRs. 600 crores for expansion and
component manufacturing in a phased manner through internal accruals and long-term
borrowings.
During the year, both plants commenced commercial production, and the ramp-up of
capacity is progressing as scheduled. The Company is moving towards achieving optimum
capacity utilisation and gaining a cost advantage due to strategic locations for sourcing
and supplying products. With a positive outlook on growth and commitment to provide
comfort and convenience to the customers, the Company has already started planning to
further enhance its capacity and move towards backward-integration in both RAC
(Pantnagar and Chennai) plants. The Company is also exploring multiple avenues to
safeguard its supply chain for compressor and other component manufacturing. With a focus
on sustainable cash flow, a robust balance sheet, and continued strong creditworthiness
among stakeholders, the Company is confident in investing adequate funds to continue its
success journey. The cash and bank balance, including investments, remains robust and will
be utilised to support various initiatives, including capex plans for expanding production
capacities and growth avenues.
The Company also invested an additionalRs. 102.41 crores in Voltbek to support
its accelerated growth.
The Company's credit rating has been confirmed at AA+ for long-term borrowings and A1+
for short-term borrowings by a reputed rating agency, enabling the Company to avail
banking facilities at competitive rates.
Digital transformation through the adoption of new-age technology has made the Company
more efficient. Cost optimisation across all functions, combined with tight control over
working capital, resulted in generating a cash surplus during the year.
The Company's Investment Policy is guided by three important principles: safety,
security, and liquidity. The Investment Committee prudently monitors the investments. As
of 31 March, 2025, the Company's liquid investments (Mutual Funds, Bonds, ICDs, and Bank
Fixed Deposits) stood atRs. 2,328 crores.
To safeguard against various macro uncertainties and drive sustainable profitability in
the upcoming years, the Company will enhance its focus on implementing strategies to
manage and reduce costs without compromising on quality or efficiency. It will also
identify and mitigate financial risks to protect the Company's assets and ensure long-term
stability, and use various working capital management initiatives to assess and improve
resource utilisation.
The Company has a well-defined Forex policy, based on which its currency exposure is
closely monitored to hedge forward risk in a structured and timely manner.
7. Tata Business Excellence Model (TBEM)
The Company remains steadfast in prioritising business excellence as a fundamental
aspect of its growth strategy. This year, the Company actively engaged in several Tata
Group initiatives, including Tata Innovista and eHackathon, underscoring our commitment to
innovation and continuous improvement. Internally, the Company institutionalised the
Voltas Innovista programme, which garnered an enthusiastic response with 23 entries this
year. This initiative highlights employees' creativity and dedication to fostering
innovation within the Company.
This year, the Company's wholly owned subsidiary, Universal MEP Projects &
Engineering Services Limited (UMPESL), participated in the Group-level Cluster Innovista
Competition under the Infrastructure & Construction Cluster, with three entries
advancing to the final rounds. UMPESL also participated in the Tata Business Excellence
Model (TBEM) external assessment, achieving findings indicative of Good Performance'
in the scoring band. This achievement underscores our commitment to upholding high
standards of performance and fostering continuous improvement.
In terms of quality assurance, several quality process audits were conducted at major
project sites. Additionally, the UPBG - Sales, Service, and Marketing functions
successfully completed their recertification for the Quality Management System ISO 9001,
reafirming our commitment to quality management. Furthermore, UMPESL conducted the
Integrated Management System (IMS) Internal Auditor training programme, certifying 19
employees as IMS Internal Auditors. This initiative has significantly strengthened the
pool of auditors, enhancing the internal audit capabilities.
8. IT Initiatives
The Company has undertaken several transformative initiatives under the
V-Vartana' programme. Some key technological advancements included the migration of
ERP from SAP ECC to S/4 HANA on RISE, as well as the entire messaging and collaboration
suite from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365. The Company also moved its in-house
applications to Azure cloud. These initiatives significantly boosted cloud adoption from
5% in 2022 to 65% in 2025. New digital solutions such as Arteria (Dealer Collaboration),
Point of Sales (PoS) system for its Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs), SalesPulse (In-shop
demo platform for customer enquiries, and ISD workforce management), Happay (Employee
Spend Management), and OneBeat (Supply Chain Optimisation based on Theory of Constraints)
were launched during the year.
The IT infrastructure was enhanced to support distribution and logistics, with major
network upgrades and migration of on-premise infrastructure to Microsoft
Azure cloud. This created a highly flexible, scalable and secured IT infrastructure
helping to modernise IT applications. Customer engagement was strengthened through various
platforms, including omnichannel service touchpoints, and the launch of Voltas Consumer
App. Employees collaboration was facilitated via the Microsoft 365 suite, while vendor
interactions were streamlined through launch of an online vendor portal.
Going forward, the focus will be on expanding AI/ML use cases, enhancing cybersecurity,
and improving customer experience and operation excellence in supply chain, manufacturing
and procurement processes.
9. Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE)
The Company has made significant advancements in its Safety, Health, and Environment
(SHE) initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to creating a safe and sustainable
workplace.
Safety Culture Transformation: Voltas commenced its safety culture transformation
journey in 2019 and is currently moving towards the Independent' phase on the
Bradley Curve. This progress reflects the performance of employees, business partners, and
workers. Key measures implemented include standardisation of SHE management; SHE strategy
and goal settings; SHE leadership programmes; dedicated safety campaigns; digitisation of
SHE processes; and health and environmental initiatives.
10. Sustainable Development
At Voltas, sustainability is not just a strategic priority but a core value that drives
our operations and decision-making processes to create a positive impact on the
environment and society at large.
The Company has drawn a blueprint to achieve the goals set by the Tata Group on Net
Zero, Circularity and Biodiversity. Regarding Net Zero, our actions will be aligned to
increasing the share of clean energy and enhancing efficiency in processes as well as
products. Under Circularity, our focus areas would include reducing waste and water,
moving towards zero waste to landfill for our operations and finding recycled alternates
for virgin content. The Company's plant operations in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu are zero
liquid discharge and practice water conservation.
In the coming year, the Company will undertake projects under biodiversity that align
with nature-based solutions and provide community benefits.
The Company remains steadfast in its commitment to integrating ESG principles into
every aspect of business and will continue to innovate and collaborate with stakeholders
to drive sustainable growth and create long-term value.
11. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Based on the Tata Ethos of Giving back to the community', Voltas has designed its
CSR framework on three verticals:
(a) Sustainable livelihood, which emphasises skilling and employability building for
marginalised youth and women.
(b) Community development, which focusses on issues like quality education, health and
water.
(c) Issues of National Importance, which address national-level issues like disaster
response/ mitigation and sanitation.
Afirmative action is a common thread for all the CSR initiatives of Voltas, and the
projects undertaken actively work towards the inclusion of SC and ST communities, Women
and People with Disabilities (PWD).
During financial year 2024-25, the Company spent
` 10.05 crores towards various CSR activities, in line with the requirements of Section
135 of the Companies Act, 2013 (Act). An amount ofRs. 2.17 crores in respect of ongoing
projects, viz , the setting up of a medical facility in Chennai (` 2 crores) and
development of course content in partnership with Tata Community Initiatives Trust for
training youth in Manufacturing Skills (` 0.17 crore), has been transferred to the Unspent
Corporate Social Responsibility Account opened by the Company in accordance with the
provisions of Section 135(6) of the Companies Act, 2013.
Disclosure as per Rule 8 of Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules,
2014, in the prescribed form (as amended), is enclosed as Annexure I to this Report.
Details of the composition of the CSR Committee and meetings held during 2024-25 are
disclosed in the Corporate Governance Report.
12. Consolidated Financial Statements
The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and its subsidiaries for the year
2024-25 are prepared in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Act and as
stipulated under Regulation 33 of the Listing Regulations, as well as in accordance with
the Indian Accounting Standards notified under the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards)
Rules, 2015. The Audited Consolidated Financial Statements, together with the Auditor's
Report thereon, form part of this Annual Report.
13. Subsidiary/Joint Ventures/Associate Companies
As of 31 March, 2025, the Company has 11 subsidiaries (direct and indirect), 3 joint
ventures and 2 associate companies. During 2024-25, Universal MEP Projects Pte. Limited,
Singapore (UMPPL), a step-down wholly owned subsidiary of the Company has incorporated a
new wholly owned subsidiary, viz. Universal MEP Contracting L.L.C. in Dubai, United Arab
Emirates. As per the requirements of Section 129(3) of the Act, a statement containing
salient features of the financial statements of subsidiaries, joint ventures and associate
companies in the prescribed Form No. AOC-1 is attached to the financial statements of the
Company. Further, pursuant to Section 136 of the Act, the standalone financial statements
of the Company, consolidated financial statements, along with relevant documents and
separate audited accounts in respect of subsidiaries are available on the Company's
website at: www.voltas.com. The Policy for determining material subsidiaries of the
Company is also provided on the Company's website at:
https://www.voltas.com/images/_ansel_image_ collector/DETERMINING_MATERIAL_SUBSIDIARY_
POLICY_1.pdf As of 31 March, 2025, the Company had one material subsidiary
Universal MEP Projects & Engineering Services Limited (UMPESL) in India. Mr. Aditya
Sehgal, an Independent Director of the Company is on the Board of UMPESL, in accordance
with the requirements of Regulation 24(1) of the Listing Regulations.
The performance of key operating subsidiary and joint venture companies in India is
given below:
UMPESL reported a turnover ofRs. 2,840 crores and profit before tax ofRs. 273
crores in 2024-25, as compared toRs. 2,868 crores andRs. 288 crores, respectively in the
previous year.
Voltbek Home Appliances Private Limited (Voltbek), the joint venture with
Ar?elik A. . for Consumer White Goods, reported a turnover of
` 2,236 crores for 2024-25. During 2024-25, the Company investedRs. 102.41 crores in
the share capital of Voltbek. The Company's total investment in Voltbek isRs. 836.92
crores, representing a 49% share in its paid-up capital ofRs. 1,708 crores.
Except as mentioned above, there were no material changes in the nature of the business
of the subsidiaries, including associates and joint ventures during 2024-25.
14. Number of Board Meetings
During 2024-25, eight Board Meetings were held on 03 April, 2024; 07 May, 2024;
12 August, 2024; 14 August, 2024; 29 October, 2024; 17 December, 2024; 29 January, 2025
and 13 March, 2025. All the Board Meetings were held physically and the facility of
participation at Board Meetings through video conferencing was provided to those Directors
who had requested the same.
15. Policy on Directors' Appointment and Remuneration, including Criteria for
Determining Qualifications, Positive Attributes and Independence of a Director
Based on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee (NRC), the
Board has adopted the Remuneration Policy for Directors, KMPs and other employees. NRC has
formulated the criteria for determining qualifications, positive attributes and
independence of an Independent Director, as well as the criteria for Performance
Evaluation of individual Directors, the Board as a whole and the Committees. The Company's
policy on the appointment and remuneration of Directors, and other matters as provided in
Section 178(3) of the Act, is disclosed in the Corporate Governance Report, which forms
part of the Annual Report and is also available at the link mentioned below.
https://www.voltas.com/images/_ansel_image_
collector/DISCLOSURE_OF_REMUNERATION_POLICY_ FOR_DIRECTORS.pdf
16. Evaluation of Performance of Board, its Committees and Directors
Pursuant to the provisions of the Act and Listing Regulations, the Board evaluated its
performance, Committees, and individual Directors. The performance of the Board as a
whole, Committees and individual Directors was evaluated by seeking inputs from all
Directors based on certain parameters as per the Guidance Note on Board Evaluation issued
by SEBI such as: Board structure and composition; Meetings of the Board in terms of
frequency, agenda, discussions and dissent, if any, recording of minutes and dissemination
of information; Functions of the Board, including governance and compliance, evaluation of
risks, stakeholder value and responsibility, Board and Management, including evaluation of
the performance of the Management. The Directors also made their self-assessment on
certain parameters attendance, contribution at meetings, guidance and support
extended to the Management. The feedback received from the Directors was discussed and
reviewed by the Independent Directors at their separate Annual Meeting held on
06 March, 2025 and was shared with the NRC and Board. At the separate Annual Meeting of
Independent Directors, the performance of Non-Independent Directors, including the
Chairman, the Board as a whole and various Committees, was discussed. The Independent
Directors in the said Meeting also evaluated the quality, quantity and timeliness of the
flow of information between the Management and the Board, which is necessary for the Board
to effectively and reasonably perform their duties. They expressed their satisfaction in
respect thereof. The performance of the individual Directors, the performance and role of
the Board and Committees were also discussed at the Board Meeting held on 07 May, 2025.
The performance evaluation of Independent Directors was done by the entire Board,
excluding the Independent Director being evaluated.
17. Statutory Auditors
At the 68 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 24 June, 2022, the Members of the
Company approved the reappointment of S. R. B. C. & Co. LLP (SRBC) as Statutory
Auditors of the Company for a second term of five years from the conclusion of the 68 AGM
till the conclusion of the 73 AGM of the Company to be held in the year 2027, to examine
and audit the accounts of the Company for five consecutive financial years between 2022-23
and 2026-27.
The Auditors' Report for 2024-25 does not contain any qualification, observation,
reservation or adverse remark.
18. Cost Auditors
The Company has maintained the accounts and cost records as specified by the Central
Government under Section 148(1) of the Companies Act, 2013. The Board appointed M/s. Sagar
and Associates, Cost Accountants, as the Cost Auditors for 2024-25, and they have been
reappointed as Cost Auditors of the Company for 2025-26. Approval of the
Shareholders is being sought for rati_cation of their remuneration at the ensuing AGM.
19. Secretarial Auditor
M/s. N. L. Bhatia and Associates, the Practising Company Secretaries, were appointed as
Secretarial Auditors to undertake the Secretarial Audit of the Company for the year
2024-25. Their Secretarial Audit Report, in prescribed Form No. MR-3, is annexed to this
Report as Annexure II and does not contain any qualification, observation, reservation or
adverse remark.
In line with the newly introduced requirements under the Listing Regulations, the Board
has recommended the appointment of M/s. N. L. Bhatia and Associates as the Secretarial
Auditor of the Company for conducting Secretarial Audit for a period of five consecutive
years, commencing from 2025-26 to 2029-30, for approval of the Shareholders.
Pursuant to Regulation 24A of the Listing Regulations, the Secretarial Audit Report of
UMPESL, a material subsidiary of the Company, has also been annexed to this Report as
Annexure III. The Secretarial Audit Report of UMPESL does not contain any qualification,
reservation, or adverse remark.
20. Audit Committee
The Audit Committee comprises Mr. Jayesh Merchant, Mr. Arun Kumar Adhikari and
Mr. Aditya Sehgal, all of whom are Independent Directors, in line with Section 177 of the
Act. Mr. Aditya Sehgal was appointed as a Member of the Committee with effect from 01
September, 2024.
Mr. Zubin Dubash and Mr. Debendranath Sarangi ceased to be Members of the Committee on
09 August, 2024, and 01 September, 2024, respectively. The Board accepted all the
recommendations made by the Audit Committee from time to time. Details of Audit Committee
Meetings held during the year 2024-25 are disclosed in the Corporate Governance Report.
21. Internal Financial Controls
The Internal Financial Controls (IFCs), their adequacy and operating effectiveness, are
included in the Management Discussion and Analysis, which forms part of the Annual Report.
The Auditor's Report also includes their reporting on IFCs over Financial Reporting.
22. Reporting of Fraud
No instances of fraud were reported by the Auditors under Section 143(12) of the Act.
23. Risk Management
Pursuant to Section 134(3)(n) of the Act and Regulation 21 of Listing Regulations, the
Company has a Risk Management Committee (RMC) comprising Mr. Jayesh Merchant, Mr. Arun
Kumar Adhikari and Mr. Aditya Sehgal, all Independent Directors. Mr. Aditya Sehgal was
appointed as a Member of the Committee with effect from 01 September, 2024. Mr. Zubin
Dubash and Mr. Debendranath Sarangi ceased to be Members of the Committee on 09
August, 2024, and 01 September, 2024, respectively. The Company has formulated a Risk
Management Policy to establish an effective and integrated framework for the Risk
Management process. During 2024-25, three meetings were held on
14 May, 2024; 04 October, 2024; and 12 March, 2025, wherein, the top risks and relevant
mitigation measures identified for the Company were reviewed and discussed.
24. Particulars of Employees
The information required under Section 197 of the Act, read with Rule 5(1) of the
Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, is given
below:
(a) The ratio of each Director's remuneration, to the median remuneration of the
Company's employees for 2024-25:
Directors |
Ratio to |
|
Median |
|
Remuneration |
Mr. Noel Tata |
3.88 |
Mr. Vinayak Deshpande |
2.14 |
Mr. Arun Kumar Adhikari |
3.23 |
Mr. Saurabh Agrawal |
0.34 |
Mr. Jayesh Merchant |
1.26 |
Directors |
Ratio to |
|
Median |
|
Remuneration |
Mr. Aditya Sehgal |
* |
(w.e.f 30 August, 2024) |
|
Mr. Pheroz Pudumjee |
* |
(w.e.f 30 August, 2024) |
|
Ms. Sonia Singh |
* |
(w.e.f. 07 March, 2025) |
|
Mr. Zubin Dubash |
* |
(up to 08 August, 2024) |
|
Mr. Debendranath Sarangi |
* |
(up to 31 August, 2024) |
|
Mr. Bahram N. Vakil |
* |
(up to 31 August, 2024) |
|
Ms. Anjali Bansal |
* |
(up to 08 March, 2025) |
|
Executive Directors |
Mr. Pradeep Bakshi |
66.91 |
Managing Director & CEO |
|
Mr. Mukundan C. P. Menon |
36.02 |
Executive Director & Head-RAC |
|
*Since the remuneration of these Directors is only for part of the year, the ratio of
their remuneration to median remuneration is not comparable and hence not stated.
Note: The ratio of Remuneration of Directors was computed based on sitting fees paid
during 2024-25 and commission paid for 2023-24 in 2024-25. However, in line
with the internal guidelines, no commission was paid to Mr. Saurabh Agrawal for
2023-24, as he was in full-time employment with another Group company. He was paid sitting
fees only.
(b) The percentage increase in remuneration of each Director, Chief Financial Officer,
Chief Executive Officer, Company Secretary or Manager, if any, in 2024-25:
Directors, Chief Executive |
% Increase/ |
Officer, Chief Financial Officer |
(Decrease) in |
and Company Secretary |
Remuneration |
|
in 2024-25 |
|
over 2023-24 |
Mr. Noel Tata |
73.90 |
Mr. Pradeep Bakshi |
18.14 |
Mr. Vinayak Deshpande |
132.09 |
Directors, Chief Executive |
% Increase/ |
Officer, Chief Financial Officer |
(Decrease) in |
and Company Secretary |
Remuneration in 2024-25 over 2023-24 |
Mr. Arun Kumar Adhikari |
62.28 |
Mr. Saurabh Agrawal |
14.29 |
Mr. Mukundan C. P. Menon |
** |
Mr. Jayesh Merchant |
** |
Mr. Aditya Sehgal |
* |
(w.e.f 30 August, 2024) |
|
Mr. Pheroz Pudumjee |
* |
(w.e.f 30 August, 2024) |
|
Ms. Sonia Singh |
* |
(w.e.f. 07 March, 2025) |
|
Mr. Zubin Dubash |
* |
(up to 08 August, 2024) |
|
Mr. Debendranath Sarangi |
* |
(up to 31 August, 2024) |
|
Mr. Bahram N. Vakil |
* |
(up to 31 August, 2024) |
|
Ms. Anjali Bansal |
* |
(up to 08 March, 2025) |
|
Mr. Jitender P. Verma |
2.05 |
(Chief Financial Officer) |
|
Mr. V. P. Malhotra |
* |
(Company Secretary up to |
|
14 August, 2024) |
|
Mr. Ratnesh Rukhariyar |
* |
(Company Secretary w.e.f. |
|
15 August, 2024) |
|
*Since the remuneration paid is for part of the year (2024-25), the percentage increase
in their remuneration is not comparable and hence not stated. **Since the remuneration
paid is for part of the year (2023-24), the percentage increase in their remuneration is
not comparable and hence not stated.
(c) Percentageincreaseinthemedianremuneration of employees in 2024-25:
7.18%
(d) Number of permanent employees on the rolls of the Company:
2,130 employees.
(includes 218 Fixed Term Contract employees on the rolls of the Company)
(e) Average percentile increase already made in the salaries of employees other than
the managerial personnel in the last financial year and its comparison with the percentile
increase in the managerial remuneration and justification thereof, and point out if there
were any exceptional circumstances for an increase in managerial remuneration:
The average percentile increase in salary of employees other than managerial personnel
was 5.56%. The average percentile increase in managerial remuneration was 14.46% in
2024-25 over 2023-24. Employees in India as of 01 April, 2024 and also on 31 March, 2025,
were only considered.
(f) Afirmation that the remuneration is as per the Remuneration Policy of the Company:
The Company afirms that the remuneration paid was as per the Remuneration Policy of the
Company.
(g) A statement containing names of the top ten employees, in terms of
remuneration drawn and the particulars of employees as required under Section 197(12) of
the Act, read with Rule 5(2) and 5(3) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of
Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, is provided in a separate Annexure in this Report.
Further, the Report and the Accounts are being sent to the Shareholders, excluding the
aforesaid Annexure. In terms of Section 136 of the Act, the said Annexure is open for
inspection at the Registered Office of the Company. Any Shareholder interested in
obtaining a copy of the same may write to the Company Secretary. None of the employees
listed in the said Annexure are related to any Director of the Company.
25. Employee Stock Option, Sweat Equity and Equity Shares with Di_erential Voting
Rights
The Company did not issue any Employee Stock Options, Sweat Equity shares or Equity
shares with differential voting rights during 2024-25.
26. Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption,
Foreign Exchange Earnings and Outgo
Information pursuant to Section 134(3)(m) of the Act relating to the conservation of
energy, technology absorption, foreign exchange earnings and outgo is given as Annexure IV
to this Report.
27. Directors and Key Managerial Personnel (KMP)
In accordance with the provisions of the Act and the Company's Articles of Association,
Mr. Noel Tata and Mr. Saurabh Agrawal retire by rotation and, being eligible, offer
themselves for re-appointment.
Mr. Pradeep Bakshi, Managing Director & CEO of the Company, had expressed his
desire not to seek reappointment as the Managing Director & CEO upon completion of his
current term on 31 August, 2025. Respecting this decision, the Board accepted the request
of Mr. Pradeep Bakshi. The Board also approved the appointment of Mr. Mukundan C. P.
Menon, currently Executive Director & Head - Room Air Conditioner Business, as the
Managing Director of the Company effective 01 September, 2025 to hold office up to 24 May,
2027, subject to the approval of the Shareholders.
Mr. Zubin Dubash ceased to be a Director of the Company upon completion of his term as
Independent Director on 08 August, 2024. Mr. Debendranath Sarangi and Mr. Bahram
Vakil ceased to be Directors of the Company upon completion of their respective terms as
Independent Directors on 31 August, 2024. Ms. Anjali Bansal ceased to be a Director of the
Company upon completion of her term as Independent Director on 08 March, 2025.
Mr. Aditya Sehgal and Mr. Pheroz Pudumjee were appointed, by the Board, as Independent
Directors for a term of 3 years commencing from 30 August, 2024 up to 29 August, 2027 and
the same was approved by the Shareholders by Postal Ballot on 21 November, 2024.
Ms. Sonia Singh was appointed by the Board, as an Independent Director for a term of 5
years commencing from 07 March, 2025 up to 06 March, 2030. Approval of the Shareholders is
being sought by a postal ballot, which has since been sent to the Shareholders.
Mr. V. P. Malhotra (Head-Taxation, Legal and Company Secretary) and Mr. Jitender Pal
Verma (Chief Financial Officer) superannuated from the services of the Company on 14
August, 2024 and 31 March, 2025, respectively.
Mr. Ratnesh Rukhariyar was appointed as the Company
Secretary from 15 August, 2024 and Mr. K. V. Sridhar was appointed as the Chief
Financial Officer from 01 April, 2025.
The Board placed on record their gratitude and appreciation for the valuable
contributions made by Mr. Zubin Dubash, Mr. Debendranath Sarangi, Mr. Bahram Vakil
and Ms. Anjali Bansal, during their association with the Company as Independent Directors.
The Board also placed on record their appreciation for the services rendered by Mr. V.P.
Malhotra during his long tenure as the Company Secretary and Mr. Jitender Pal Verma, as
the Chief Financial Officer of the Company.
Mr. Pradeep Bakshi (Managing Director & CEO), Mr. Mukundan C. P. Menon
(Executive Director & Head Room Air Conditioner Business), Mr. Jitender Pal
Verma (Chief Financial Officer) and Mr. Ratnesh Rukhariyar (Company Secretary) were the
Key Managerial Personnel (KMPs) of the Company as of 31 March, 2025, in line with the
requirements of Section 203 of the Act.
Mr. Pradeep Bakshi, Managing Director & CEO of the Company, is also the Managing
Director of Universal MEP Projects & Engineering Services Limited (UMPESL), a wholly
owned subsidiary of the Company. Mr. Pradeep Bakshi does not draw any remuneration from
UMPESL. No other Director is the Managing Director or Whole-time Director of any
subsidiary of the Company.
During the year under review, the Non-Executive Directors of the Company had no
pecuniary relationship or transactions with the Company, other than sitting fees,
commission and reimbursement of expenses incurred by them (if any) to attend Meetings of
the Board and Committees of the Company.
28. Declaration by Independent Directors
Pursuant to Section 149(7) of the Act, the Company received declarations from all
Independent Directors confirming that they meet the criteria of independence as specified
in Section 149(6) of the Act, as amended, read with Rules framed thereunder and Regulation
16(1)(b) of the Listing Regulations. In terms of Regulation 25(8) of the Listing
Regulations, the Independent Directors confirmed that they were not aware of any
circumstance or situation which exists or may be reasonably anticipated that could impair
or impact their ability to discharge their duties with an objective independent judgement
and without any external influence and that they are independent of the Management. The
Board of Directors of the Company took on record the declaration and confirmation
submitted by the Independent Directors after undertaking a due assessment of the veracity
of the same.
The Board is of the opinion that the Independent Directors possess the requisite
qualifications, experience, and expertise and they hold high standards of integrity. The
Independent Directors complied with the Code for Independent Directors prescribed in
Schedule IV to the Act and also confirmed that their registration with the databank of
Independent Directors maintained by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs complies
with the requirements of the Companies (Appointment and Qualifications of Directors)
Rules, 2014.
29. Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report
Pursuant to Regulation 34(2)(f ) of the Listing Regulations, as amended, the Business
Responsibility and Sustainability Report in the prescribed format forms part of this
Annual Report.
30. Corporate Governance
Pursuant to Schedule V to the Listing Regulations, Management Discussion and Analysis,
Corporate
Governance Report and Auditor's Certificate regarding compliance with the conditions of
Corporate Governance form part of the Annual Report. A declaration signed by the Managing
Director regarding compliance with the Code of Conduct by the Board Members and Senior
Management Personnel also forms part of the Annual Report. The Code of Conduct and various
other policies are available on the website of the Company at: https://
www.voltas.com/about/corporate-governance
31. Details of the Establishment of the Vigil Mechanism for Directors and Employees
The Company has adopted a Whistle Blower Policy (the Policy) as required under Section
177 of the Act and Listing Regulations. The Policy provides a mechanism for Directors and
employees of the Company to approach the Ethics Counsellor or Chairman of the Audit
Committee of the Company in case of any concern. The Whistle Blower Policy can be accessed
on the Company's website at:
https://www.voltas.com/images/_ansel_image_collector/ WHISTLE_BLOWER_POLICY_1.pdf
32. Particulars of Loans, Guarantees or Investments under Section 186 of the Act during
2024-25
Details of loans, guarantees and investments covered under the provisions of Section
186 of the Act, made during the year, as also given in the Notes to the financial
statements, are given below:
Name of the Entity |
Nature of Transaction |
Particulars of Loan, Guarantees Given or Investments
Made during 2024-25 |
The Purpose for which the Loans, Guarantees and Investments are
proposed to be utilised |
|
|
Investment/ICD |
Guarantee |
|
|
|
(Rs. in crores) |
(Rs. in crores) |
|
HDB Financial Services Limited |
Investment in Bonds |
19.83 |
- |
General Corporate Purpose |
Voltas Netherlands B.V.* |
Subscription of Shares |
177.47 |
- |
Strategic Investment |
Tata Consumer Products Limited |
Subscription of Rights |
0.72 |
- |
Strategic Investment |
|
Equity Shares |
|
|
|
Bajaj Finance Limited |
Investment in Bonds |
29 |
- |
General Corporate Purpose |
|
Inter Corporate Deposit |
20 |
- |
|
Tata International Limited |
Investment in Bonds |
100 |
- |
General Corporate Purpose |
ICICI Home Finance Limited |
Inter Corporate Deposit |
24.95 |
- |
General Corporate Purpose |
Mahindra and Mahindra Financial Services Limited |
Inter Corporate Deposit |
50 |
- |
General Corporate Purpose |
Voltbek Home Appliances Private Limited |
Subscription of Rights Equity Shares |
102.41 |
- |
Strategic Investment |
*wholly owned subsidiary
33. Particulars of Contracts or Arrangements with Related Parties
During the year under review, the Company did not have any contracts or arrangements
with related parties in terms of Section 188(1) of the Act. Accordingly, particulars of
contracts or arrangements with related parties referred to in Section 188(1) of the Act,
along with justification for entering such contracts or arrangements in Form AOC-2, do not
form part of the report, as the same is not applicable.
34. Secretarial Standards
The Company complied with the provisions of Secretarial Standards on Meetings of the
Board of Directors (SS-1) and General Meetings (SS-2).
35. Details of Significant and Material Orders passed by the Regulators/Courts/Tribunal
No significant and material orders were passed by the Regulators, the Courts, or
Tribunals impacting the going concern status and the Company's operations in the future.
36. Proceeding under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016
There were no proceedings, either filed by the Company or against the Company, pending
under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 as amended, before the National Company Law
Tribunal or other Courts as of 31 March, 2025.
37. Deposits from Public
The Company did not accept any deposits from the public, and as such, no amount on
account of principal or interest on deposits from the public was outstanding as of 31
March, 2025.
38. Directors' Responsibility Statement
Based on the framework and testing of internal financial controls and compliance
systems established and maintained by the Company, work performed by the internal,
statutory, cost and secretarial auditors and external agencies, including the audit of
internal financial controls over financial reporting by the Statutory Auditors and the
reviews performed by Management and the relevant Board Committees, including the
Audit Committee, the Board is of the opinion that the Company's internal financial
controls were adequate and effective during 2024-25. Accordingly, pursuant to Section
134(5) of the Act, the Board of Directors, based on the assurance given of the business
operations, to the best of their knowledge and ability, confirm that:
(i) in the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicable accounting standards were
followed, and there were no material departures;
(ii) they have, in the selection of the accounting policies, consulted the Statutory
Auditors and have applied their recommendations consistently and made judgements and
estimates that are reasonable and prudent to give a true and fair view of the state of
affairs of the Company at the end of the financial year and of the profit of the Company
for that period; (iii) they have taken proper and sufficient care to the best of their
knowledge and ability, for the maintenance of adequate accounting records in accordance
with the provisions of the Act, for safeguarding the assets of the Company and for
preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities; (iv) they have prepared the
annual accounts on a going-concern basis; (v) they have laid down internal financial
controls to be followed by the Company and that such internal financial controls were
adequate and operating effectively; and (vi) they have devised a proper system to ensure
compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate
and operating effectively.
39. Annual Return
Pursuant to Sections 92(3) and 134(3)(a) of the Act, the Annual Return for 2024-25 is
available on the Company's website at: https://www.voltas.in/file-uploads/general/
AnnualReturn2024-25.pdf.
40. Disclosure as per the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention,
Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013
The Company has zero tolerance for sexual harassment in the workplace and has adopted a
Respect for
Gender' Policy on prevention, prohibition and redressal of sexual harassment in line
with the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention,
Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act) and the Rules thereunder. As per the
requirement of the POSH Act, the Company has formed an Internal Committee to address
complaints pertaining to sexual harassment in the workplace. The Company received one
complaint during 2024-25, which was investigated by the Internal Committee and the matter
was closed after taking necessary action.
41. Other Disclosures
During the year, there were no transactions requiring disclosure or reporting in
respect of matters relating to:
(a) issue of equity shares with differential voting rights as to dividend, voting or
otherwise;
(b) issue of shares (including sweat equity shares) to directors or employees of the
Company under any scheme; (c) raising of funds through preferential allotment or qualified
institutional placement; (d) instance of a one-time settlement with any bank or financial
institution.
42. General
The Notes forming part of the Accounts are self-explanatory or, to the extent
necessary, have been dealt with in the preceding paragraphs of the Report.
|
On behalf of the Board of Directors |
|
Noel Tata |
Date: 07 May, 2025 |
Chairman |
Place: Mumbai |
(DIN: 00024713) |
|