Your Directors have immense pleasure in presenting the 17th Annual Report, highlighting the Business Performance along with the audited financial statements for the financial year ended March 31, 2025.
1. RESULTS OF OPERATION AND STATE OF AFFAIRS
Financial Results
|
Standalone
|
Consolidated
|
|
2024
|
2025
|
2024
|
|
Revenue from operations
|
2,320.48
|
2,036.50
|
4,138.46
|
3,698.90
|
Other income
|
5,738.67
|
49.02
|
148.23
|
24.85
|
Total income
|
8,059.15
|
2,085.52
|
4,286.69
|
3,723.75
|
Total expenditure
|
2,094.05
|
1,876.17
|
3,746.58
|
3,451.22
|
Profit/(loss) before exceptional items and tax
|
5,965.10
|
209.35
|
540.11
|
272.53
|
Exceptional items
|
323.15
|
-
|
(50.14)
|
-
|
Profit before tax & Share of net profit/(loss) of equity accounted investees
|
6,288.25
|
209.35
|
489.97
|
272.53
|
Share of net profit/(loss) of equity accounted investees
|
-
|
-
|
(18.91)
|
(11.34)
|
Profit before tax
|
6,288.25
|
209.35
|
471.06
|
261.19
|
Less: Tax expense
|
79.28
|
52.39
|
134.37
|
56.51
|
Profit for the year from continuing operations
|
-
|
-
|
336.69
|
204.68
|
Profit for the year from discontinued operations
|
-
|
-
|
5,071.20
|
6.88
|
Profit for the year
|
6,208.97
|
156.96
|
5,407.89
|
211.56
|
Other comprehensive income/(loss), net of taxes
|
(1.03)
|
(0.64)
|
(2.11)
|
46.42
|
Total comprehensive income/(loss)
|
6,207.94
|
156.32
|
5,405.78
|
257.98
|
Profit attributable to Owners of the Company
|
6,207.94
|
156.32
|
5,377.83
|
129.28
|
Profit attributable to Non-controlling interest
|
-
|
-
|
30.06
|
82.28
|
Total
|
6,207.94
|
156.32
|
5,407.89
|
211.56
|
Total comprehensive income attributable to Owners of the Company
|
6,207.94
|
156.32
|
5,375.79
|
171.89
|
Total comprehensive income attributable to Non-controlling interest
|
-
|
-
|
29.99
|
86.09
|
Total
|
6,207.94
|
156.32
|
5,405.78
|
257.98
|
Earnings per share
|
|
|
Continuing operations (INR)
|
|
|
Basic
|
124.67
|
3.15
|
6.16
|
3.60
|
Diluted
|
124.52
|
3.15
|
6.15
|
3.60
|
Discontinuing operations (INR)
|
|
|
Basic
|
-
|
-
|
101.82
|
(1.00)
|
Diluted
|
-
|
-
|
101.70
|
(1.00)
|
Continuing & Discontinued operations (INR)
|
|
|
Basic
|
124.67
|
3.15
|
107.98
|
2.60
|
Diluted
|
124.52
|
3.15
|
107.85
|
2.60
|
Financial Position
Particulars
|
Standalone
|
Consolidated
|
2025
|
2024
|
2025
|
2024
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
119.84
|
27.72
|
164.59
|
82.23
|
Trade receivables
|
138.13
|
127.55
|
257.81
|
233.35
|
Other current assets
|
1,353.65
|
1,614.57
|
1,479.07
|
249.43
|
Assets classified as held-for-sale
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
13,600.29
|
Total current assets
|
1,611.62
|
1,769.84
|
1,901.47
|
14,165.30
|
Property, plant and equipment (including capital work-in-progress)
|
1,076.61
|
995.78
|
2,663.28
|
2,442.15
|
Goodwill
|
-
|
-
|
264.12
|
264.12
|
|
Standalone
|
Consolidated
|
|
2024
|
2025
|
2024
|
|
Other intangible assets (including intangible asset under development)
|
1.25
|
2.09
|
30.32
|
31.38
|
Other non-current assets
|
2,275.28
|
1,770.02
|
1,747.19
|
1,088.36
|
Total non-current assets
|
3,353.14
|
2,767.89
|
4,704.91
|
3,826.01
|
Total assets
|
4,964.76
|
4,537.73
|
6,606.38
|
17,991.31
|
Non-current liabilities
|
1,204.39
|
779.69
|
2,075.72
|
1,672.94
|
Liabilities directly associated with assets classified as held-for-sale
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10,417.02
|
Current liabilities
|
420.88
|
463.80
|
879.21
|
871.24
|
Total current and non-current liabilities
|
1,625.27
|
1,243.49
|
2,954.93
|
12,961.20
|
Equity
|
499.52
|
499.52
|
499.52
|
499.52
|
Other equity
|
2,839.97
|
2,794.72
|
2,928.55
|
4,060.27
|
Non-controlling interest
|
-
|
-
|
223.38
|
470.32
|
Total equity
|
3,339.49
|
3,294.24
|
3,651.45
|
5.030.11
|
Total equity and liabilities
|
4,964.76
|
4,537.73
|
6,606.38 |
|
17,991.31
|
Note: The figures presented have been regrouped for ease of understanding and may not align with the classification prescribed under Indian Accounting Standards (IND AS).
Performance Overview
During the year under review, the Company reported on a consolidated basis, a total income of INR 4,286.69 crores as compared to INR 3,723.75 crores in the previous year. Of the total revenue from operations for financial year 2025, our hospital segment accounted for INR 4029.90 crores, our clinic segment accounted for INR 57.79 crores, our wholesale pharmacy segment accounted for INR 126.72 crores and other segment accounted for INR 7.93 crores. The Company reported on a standalone basis, a total income of INR 8,059.15 crores as compared to INR 2,085.52 crores in the previous year.
Other income includes dividend of INR 5,569.96 crore received from Affinity Holdings Private Limited on receipt of proceeds on completion of sale of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) business.
The Management Discussion and Analysis section, which forms part of this Integrated Annual Report, inter-alia, covers the Company's strategies for the financial year 2025-26.
2. TRANSFER TO RESERVES
There were no appropriations to/from the general reserves of the Company during the year under review.
3. DIVIDEND
Your Directors recommended/ declared dividend as under:
Particulars
|
Fiscal 2025
|
Fiscal 2024
|
Dhaaden/nPer |DividenN Rpare
|
Dividend per share in INR
|
Dividend payout
in INR crore
|
|
Special Dividend
|
118 5,894.25
|
-
|
-
|
Interim Dividend
|
4 199.80
|
-
|
-
|
Final Dividend
|
1 51.81
|
2
|
99.90
|
Note:
The Company declares and pays dividend in Indian Rupees (INR). Company is required to pay / distribute dividend after deducting applicable withholding income taxes. The remittance of dividends outside India is governed by Indian law on foreign exchange and is also subject to withholding tax at applicable rates.
The Board of Directors, at its meeting held on May 20, 2025, has recommended a final dividend for the financial year 2024-25, subject to approval of the shareholders at the ensuing Annual General Meeting ("AGM") scheduled on Thursday 04, 2025.
The record date to determine the eligibility of Shareholders to receive the final dividend for the financial year ended March 31, 2025, is August 28, 2025. According to the Finance Act, 2020, dividend income will be taxable in the hands of the
Members w.e.f. April 1, 2020, and the Company is required to deduct tax at source from the dividend paid to the Members at prescribed rates as per the Income Tax Act, 1961.
The Dividend Distribution Policy, in terms of Regulation 43A of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (“Listing Regulations") is available on the Company's website on https://www.asterdmhealthcare.in/fileadmin/user upload/ Final_DDP_to_upload_on_website.pdf
4. SEGREGATION OF GULF CORPORATION COUNCIL BUSINESS
Pursuant to the recommendation of the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors at their meetings held on November 28, 2023, the Shareholders, on January 22, 2024, approved the sale by Affinity Holdings Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, of its entire shareholding in entities operating in the GCC region, including Aster DM Healthcare FZC, a material subsidiary, to Alpha GCC Holdings Limited.
The Company completed the segregation of its GCC business on April 03, 2024, through the sale by Affinity Holdings Pvt. Ltd.
for a cash consideration of USD 907.6 million. Subsequently, on April 12, 2024, the Company declared a special dividend of INR 118/- per share for the financial year 2024-25, aggregating to approximately INR 5,894/- crores.
5. MERGER OF QCIL WITH THE COMPANY
The Board of Directors of the Company at its meeting held on November 29, 2024, had approved the scheme of amalgamation of Quality Care India Limited (“QCIL") with the Company and their respective shareholders & creditors pursuant to Section 230-232 and other applicable provisions of the Act, and rules made thereunder, subject to receipt of necessary regulatory approvals.
As consideration for the amalgamation, the Company will issue equity shares to the shareholders of QCIL at a swap ratio of 977:1000, i.e., 977 equity shares of the Company for every 1,000 equity shares held in QCIL. Subject to receipt of the
necessary approvals, the Company will also change its name to "Aster DM Quality Care Limited".
The Company has received approval from the Competition Commission of India on April 15, 2025, and approval from the Stock Exchanges/SEBI is currently awaited. The Company will initiate the process of filing the requisite application before the Hon'ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to seek its directions, including convening meetings of relevant stakeholders, pursuing the next steps under the merger process and complying with other applicable regulatory requirements.
6. SHARE CAPITAL
The share capital of the Company as on March 31, 2025, stands at INR 499.52 crores consisting of 49,95,13,060 equity shares of INR 10/- each. During the year under review, the Company has not issued any shares with differential voting rights or any sweat equity shares. Details of Employee Stock Options granted by the Company are provided separately in annexure to this report.
7. PREFERENTIAL ISSUE OF SHARES
During the year under review, pursuant to the Share Acquisition Agreement dated November 29, 2024 (“SAA") entered into, inter alia, with BCP Asia II Topco IV Pte. Ltd. (“BCP"), Centella Mauritius Holdings Limited (“TPG") (collectively, the "Allottees"), and Quality Care India Limited (“QCIL"), the Company has obtained approval of the shareholders through a postal ballot on December 29, 2024, for the issuance of 1,86,07,969 equity shares of INR 10/- each at a price of INR 456.33/- per share (“Subscription Shares") to the Allottees on a preferential basis, for consideration other than cash.
The said consideration was discharged by way of acquisition of 1,90,46,028 equity shares of QCIL (“Purchase Shares") from the Allottees at a price of INR 445.87/- per equity share.
On receipt of regulatory approvals, the Board of Directors, on April 29, 2025, had allotted the said shares to TPG and BCP pursuant to the swap of a 5% stake in QCIL from TPG and BCP. Accordingly, the paid-up capital of the Company as on the date of this report stands at INR 518.12/- crores consisting of 51,81,21,029 equity shares of INR 10/- each. Except as above, there has been no other change in share capital of the Company, during the year under review.
8. DEPOSITS FROM PUBLIC
The Company has not accepted any public deposits within the meaning of Section 73 of the Act, and the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014, and as such, no amount on account of principal or interest on deposits from public was outstanding as on the date of the balance sheet.
9. PARTICULARS OF LOANS, GUARANTEE AND INVESTMENTS
Loans, guarantees and investments covered under Section 186 of the Act form part of the Notes to the financial statements provided in this Integrated Annual Report.
10. SUBSIDIARY, JOINT VENTURE AND ASSOCIATE COMPANIES
The Company, together with its subsidiaries, is engaged in the business of establishing and operating hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and other healthcare facilities across India. At the beginning of the financial year, the Group comprised of
79 subsidiaries and 8 Associates and 1 Joint Venture. On April 3, 2024, the Company segregated its GCC business, which included 59 subsidiaries and 4 Associates and 1 Joint venture.
As of March 31, 2025, the Group retains 20 subsidiaries and 4 associates, with no material change in the nature of their business operations.
Pursuant to provisions of Section 129(3) of the Act, a statement containing salient features of the financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries/associates in Form AOC-1 is annexed as Annexure 1 to this report.
Further, pursuant to the provisions of Section 136 of the Act, the standalone financial statements of the Company, the consolidated financial statements along with relevant documents and separate audited financial statements in respect of subsidiaries, are available on the Company's website at https:/www.asterdmhealthcare.in/investors/financial-
information/annual-reports
11. CONTRACTS AND ARRANGEMENTS WITH RELATED PARTIES
During the year under review, all contracts, arrangements and transactions entered into by the Company with related parties were in the ordinary course of business and on an arm's length basis. The Company did not enter into any transaction, contract or arrangement with related parties that could be considered material in accordance with the Company's policy on dealing with related party transactions. Further, during the financial year 2024-25, there were no materially significant related party transaction(s) entered by the Company which might have potential conflict with the interest of the Company at large.
The disclosure of related party transactions in Form AOC-2 is annexed as Annexure 2 to this report. Detailed disclosure on related party transactions as per IND AS- 24 have been provided under Note No. 36 of the Standalone Financial Statements.
In line with the requirements of the Act and SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 ("Listing Regulations"), the Company has formulated a Policy on Related Party Transactions and the same can be accessed using the following link https:/www.asterdmhealthcare.in/fileadmin/ Policy on dealing with Related party transactions 1.pdf The policy intends to ensure that proper reporting, approval and disclosure processes are in place for all transactions between the Company and related parties.
12. DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
In terms of Section 134 (5) of the Act, the Directors confirm that:
a) In the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicable accounting standards have been followed and there has been no material departures;
b) the Directors have selected such accounting policies and applied them consistently and made judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as 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 and loss of the Company for that period;
c) the Directors have taken proper and sufficient care 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;
d) the Directors have prepared the annual accounts on a going concern basis;
e) the Directors have laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the Company, which are adequate and are operating effectively;
f) the Directors have devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and such systems are adequate and operating effectively.
13. DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
Appointments
• The following Directors were appointed from July 31, 2024, by way of shareholders' approval at their 16th AGM:
1. Mr. Anoop Moopen (DIN: 02301362) - Non¬ Executive Non-Independent Director
2. Dr. Zeba Azad Moopen (DIN: 03604401) - Non¬ Executive Non-Independent Director
3. Mr. Sunil Theckath Vasudevan (DIN: 00294130) - Non-Executive Independent Director
4. Mr. Maniedath Madhavan Nambiar (DIN: 01122411) - Non-Executive Independent Director
• Mr. Amitabh Johri resigned as Joint Chief Financial Officer with effect from April 25, 2024, and accordingly, Mr. Sunil Kumar M R, who was previously the Joint Chief Financial Officer, has assumed the role of the Chief Financial Officer of the Company.
Resignations
1. Mr. Wayne Earl Keathley (DIN: 09331921 ) has resigned as a Non-executive Independent Director of the Company with effect from April 03, 2024.
2. Mr. Daniel Robert Mintz (DIN: 00960928) has resigned as a Non-executive Director of the Company with effect from April 03, 2024.
Re-appointments
• In accordance with Articles of Association, Mr. Shamsudheen Bin Mohideen Mammu Haji (DIN: 02007279) Non-Executive Director shall retire by rotation at the ensuing AGM. The Director being eligible offers himself for re-appointment. The Notice of AGM of the Company contains the above proposal for the approval of the Members.
Key Managerial Personnel
In terms of the provisions of Section 203 of the Act, the following are the Key Managerial Personnel ('KMP') as on March 31, 2025:
S.
No
|
Name of the Key Managerial Personnel
|
Designation
|
1
|
Dr. Azad Moopen
|
Chairman and Managing Director
|
2
|
Ms. Alisha Moopen
|
Deputy Managing Director
|
3
|
Mr. Sunil Kumar M R
|
Chief Financial Officer
|
4
|
Mr. Hemish Purushottam
|
Company Secretary and Compliance Officer
|
14. COMMITTEES OF DIRECTORS
The Company has constituted Committees as required under the Act and the Listing Regulations and the details of the said
Committees form part of the Corporate Governance Report.
15. BOARD EVALUATION
Pursuant to the provisions of the Act and the Listing Regulations, the evaluation of Board of Directors was conducted for the financial year 2024-25. The evaluation was conducted by engaging an external independent agency having the requisite expertise in this field. An online questionnaire method was adopted for evaluation based on the criteria formulated by the members of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee (“NRC"). The evaluation was made to assess the performance of Individual Directors, Committees of the Board, Board as a whole Executive Directors and the Chairman. Adherence to the Code of Conduct, display of leadership qualities, Independence of judgement, integrity, confidentiality , engagement level and participation at the Board / Committee meetings were some of the criterions based on which the performance evaluation was conducted. Further, the evaluation of Management was conducted based on the factors such as timeliness in the flow of information, transparency and quality of information provided to the Board for decision making and adoption of suggestions provided by the Board.
The Independent Directors at their meeting held on May 19, 2025, reviewed the performance of the Non¬ Independent Directors, Committees of the Board, the Board as a whole and Chairman based on the evaluation of other Directors. The NRC at their meeting held on May 19, 2025, reviewed the outcome of the evaluation process.
16. DECLARATION BY INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
The Company has received declaration from Independent Directors in accordance with Section 149(7) of the Act and Regulations 25(8) of the Listing Regulations that he/she meets the criteria of Independence as laid out in Section 149(6) of the Act and Regulation 16(1)(b) of the Listing Regulations. The Board of Directors are of the opinion that all the Independent Directors meet the criteria regarding integrity, expertise, experience and proficiency.
In terms of Section 150 of the Act read with Rule 6 of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, Independent Directors of the Company have confirmed
that they have registered themselves with the databank maintained by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (“IICA“).
17. POLICY ON APPOINTMENT OF DIRECTORS AND REMUNERATION
The policy of the Company on directors' appointment and remuneration, including the criteria for determining qualifications, positive attributes, Independence of a director and other matters, as required under sub-section (3) of Section 178 of the Act is available on the website of the Company at https://www.asterdmhealthcare.in/fileadmin/Policy on Nomination Remuneration and Evaluation.pdf
The salient features of the policy are as under:
Structured Framework: Establishes clear guidelines for the appointment, reappointment, removal, and succession planning of Directors, KMPs, and Senior Management.
Merit & Diversity Focus: Emphasizes merit-based selection with due consideration for board diversity, including gender, skills, and experience.
Performance-Linked Remuneration: Defines a balanced remuneration structure combining fixed pay, performance incentives, and long-term benefits aligned with industry benchmarks.
Board Evaluation: Outlines annual performance evaluation of the Board, its committees, and individual directors, influencing continuation and reappointment decisions.
Independent Oversight: Ensures Independent Directors meet separately to review board performance and information flow, maintaining governance standards.
We affirm that the remuneration paid to the Directors is as per the terms laid out in the Nomination and Remuneration Policy of the Company.
18. BOARD MEETINGS AND AGM
The Board of Directors met 15 times during the financial year viz., April 12, 2024; May 28, 2024, July 31, 2024, September 17, 2024, October 07, 2024, October 23, 2024, November 05, 2024, November 11, 2024, November 15, 2024, November 25, 2024, November 28, 2024, November 29, 2024, December 12, 2024, January 31,2025 and March 27, 2025. The intervening gap between the meetings was within the period
prescribed under the Act and Listing Regulations. Detailed information on the meetings of the Board and its Committees is provided in the Corporate Governance Report.
The AGM for the financial year 2023-24 was held on August 29,
2024, through Video Conferencing ('VC') facility.
19. SECRETARIAL STANDARDS
The Company has devised proper systems to ensure compliance with all applicable Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (“ICSI") as required under Section 118 (10) of the Act and such systems are adequate and operating effectively.
During the FY 2024-25, the Company has adhered with the applicable provisions of the Secretarial Standards (“SS-1 and SS-2") relating to 'Meetings of the Board of Directors' and 'General Meetings' issued by the ICSI.
20. PARTICULARS OF EMPLOYEES
The remuneration paid to Directors, Key Managerial Personnel, and Senior Management Personnel during FY 2024-25 was in accordance with the NRC Policy of the Company. The statement containing particulars of employees as required under Section 197 (12) of the Act, read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, is provided in Annexure 3 to this report.
21. EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION SCHEME
The Nomination and Remuneration Committee of the Board, inter-alia, administers and monitors the Company's Employees Stock Option Plan “Aster DM Healthcare Employees Stock Option Plan 2013" ("ESOP Plan") in accordance with Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 and the plan is implemented through DM Healthcare Employees Welfare Trust ("ESOP Trust").
During the year, 4,32,156 shares were transferred from the ESOP Trust to the eligible employees under the prevailing ESOP Plan. As on March 31, 2025, the ESOP Trust held 13,07,911
(0.26%) equity shares of the Company.
Disclosures as required under Rule 12 of Companies (Share Capital and Debentures) Rules, 2014 read with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 have been provided separately in Annexure 4 to this report. The same can be accessed on the Company's website at https:/ www.asterdmhealthcare.in/investors/stock-exchange- disclosures/esop-disclosure There have been no material changes in the Employee Stock Option Scheme during the financial year 2024-25.
The certificate from the Secretarial Auditor that the scheme has been implemented in accordance with Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 and the resolutions passed
by the shareholders shall be placed at the AGM for inspection by the Members.
22. INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS
The Company is committed to maintain a high standard of internal controls throughout its operations. The Company has adopted policies, processes, and procedures for ensuring orderly and efficient conduct of the business, including adherence to the Company's policies, the safeguarding of its assets, the prevention and detection of frauds and errors, the reasonableness and completeness of the accounting records, and the timely preparation of reliable financial disclosures. The internal control system is commensurate with the nature of business, size and complexity of operations and has been designed to provide reasonable assurance on the achievement of objectives, effectiveness and efficiency of operations, reliability of financial reporting and compliance with applicable statutory laws and regulations. The Internal control system is designed to manage rather than to eliminate the risk of failure to achieve business objectives. The same is designed to ensure that all transactions are evaluated, authorized, recorded and reported accurately.
As part of the Corporate Governance Report, the Chief Financial Officer certification is provided, for assurance on the existence of effective internal control systems and procedures in the Company.
The internal control framework is supplemented with an internal audit program that provides an Independent view of the efficacy and effectiveness of the process and control environment and supports a continuous improvement program. The internal audit program is managed by an in-house internal audit function and supported by the co-sourced internal audit team, KPMG Assurance and Consulting Services LLP, which is an external firm. The Audit Committee of the Board oversees the internal audit function, including review of the internal audit plan which is prepared based on adequate risk assessment of the Company operations.
The Audit Committee is regularly apprised by the internal auditors and co-sourced internal auditors through various reports and presentations. The scope and authority of the internal audit function is approved by the Audit Committee. The internal audit function develops an internal audit plan to assess process, control's design and operating effectiveness, as per the risk assessment methodology. The internal audit function provides assurance to the Board that a system of internal control is designed and deployed to manage key business risks and is operating effectively. The Audit Committee also reviews the effectiveness of implementation of the mitigation actions designed and implemented by the management to remediate any of the gaps.
23. VIGIL MECHANISM
The Company believes in conducting its affairs in a transparent manner, in compliance with statutory requirements and adopts highest standards of professionalism and ethical behaviour.
Integrity is one of the key values of the Company that it strictly abides by. Keeping that in view, the Company has established a vigil mechanism for Directors, employees and other personnel to report concerns about unethical behaviour, actual or suspected fraud or violation of the Company's code of conduct or ethics. The Whistle Blower Policy is available on the website of the Company at https:Ywww.asterdmhealthcare.in/fileadmin/ user upload/Aster Whistle Blowing Policy .pdf
The Company, as a policy, condemns any kind of discrimination, harassment, victimization, or any other unfair employment practice being adopted against whistle blowers and provides adequate safeguard measures. It also provides to the complainant, direct access to the Chairman of the Audit Committee to raise concerns.
In addition to this, the Company has also engaged an independent agency called 'Integrity Matters' that provides an electronic and digital platform to report any unethical practices or harassment/injustice at the workplace confidentially and, if desired, anonymously by the complainant anywhere in the world to ensure fairness and transparency in the process.
The Audit Committee reviews, on a quarterly basis, the status of whistleblower complaints received, along with the actions taken and remedial measures implemented.
24. RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
The Board of Directors of the Company has a Risk Management Committee to frame, implement and monitor the risk management plan for the Company.
In order to bring in further accountability, transparency and expertise in the risk management, the Company has a process of periodic reporting to the Risk Management Committee. The Risk Management Committee oversees how management monitors compliance with the risk management policies and procedures and reviews the adequacy of the risk management framework in relation to the risks being faced by the Company.
The development and implementation of risk management policy has been covered in the Management Discussion and Analysis, which forms part of this report.
The Risk Management Policy is available on the website of
the Company at https:Ywww.asterdmhealthcare.in/fileadmin/ user upload/Risk Management Policy.pdf
25. CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
The Company has a well-defined policy on Corporate Social Responsibility ("CSR") as per the requirement of Section 135 of the Act. The CSR activities of the Company undertaken by Aster Volunteers broadly includes providing free healthcare services to the under-privileged children and the needy, village adoption, providing education, and sustainability programmes. The CSR activities are being carried out under the broad umbrella of our registered charitable organization - Aster DM Foundation ('the Foundation"). The Foundation is established and endowed as a non-profitable charity and philanthropic organization by Dr. Azad Moopen as the Managing Trustee of the foundation is registered under Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
The CSR Policy of the Company is available on the website of the Company at https:/www.asterdmhealthcare.in/fileadmin/ user upload/CSR Policy 01.pdf Details on Corporate Social Responsibility activities undertaken during the year is provided in Annexure 5 forming part of this report.
26. AUDITORS
i. Statutory Auditor
M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells, Chartered Accountants [Firm Registration Number: 008072S] was appointed as the Statutory Auditor of the Company for a period of five (5) years from the conclusion of 12th AGM till the conclusion of 17th AGM.
The Board of Directors, based on the recommendation of the Audit Committee, had considered and approved the re-appointment of M/s. Deloitte Haskins & Sells, Chartered Accountants (Firm Registration Number. 008072S) ("Deloitte") as the Statutory Auditor of the Company for a second term of five (5) consecutive years from the conclusion of 17th AGM till the conclusion of 22nd AGM for the FY 2025-26 till 2029-30, subject to the approval of the Shareholders at the ensuing AGM.
The Company has received necessary consent from Deloitte for their re-appointment and confirmation to the effect that their appointment, if made, would be within the prescribed limits and that they do not incur any disqualification under Section 141 of the Act and the rules made thereunder. The notice of the ensuing 17th AGM contains necessary resolution in this regard.
ii. Secretarial Auditor
On the recommendation of the Audit Committee, the Board of Directors at its meeting held on May 20, 2025 had appointed M/s. S Sandeep & Associates, Practising Company Secretaries, [Firm Registration Number: P2025TN103600] as Secretarial Auditor of the Company for a term of five consecutive years from financial year 2025-26 till financial year 2029-30, subject to the approval of shareholders in terms of Section 204 of the Act and Rules thereunder and Regulation 24A of Listing Regulations.
The Company has received necessary consent from M/s. S Sandeep & Associates & Associates for their appointment and confirmation to the effect that they do not incur any disqualification under Section 204 of the Act
and the rules made thereunder read with Regulation 24A of the Listing Regulations and relevant circulars issued by SEBI in this regard. The notice of the 17th AGM contains necessary resolution in this regard.
iii. Cost Auditor
The Company has maintained cost records and accounts as specified by the Central Government under Section 148(1) of the Companies Act, 2013 and rules made thereunder and M/s. Jitender Navneet & Co., Cost Accountants [Firm Registration Number: 000119] was appointed as the
Cost Auditor of the Company to conduct the audit of cost records for the financial year 2024-25.
The Board of Directors, on the recommendation of the Audit Committee, had re-appointed M/s. Jitender Navneet & Co., Cost Accountants as the Cost Auditor of the Company to conduct the audit of cost records for the financial year 2025-26 at a remuneration of INR 2,50,000/- (Rupees Two Lakhs and Fifty Thousand only) plus out of pocket expenses & taxes as applicable, if any, in connection with the cost audit.
The Board of Directors of the Company recommends the ratification of remuneration of M/s. Jitender Navneet & Co. Cost Accountants for financial year 2025-26 at the ensuing 17th AGM. The Notice of 17th AGM contains the above proposal for the approval of the Members.
27. AUDIT REPORT
i. Statutory Audit Report
The Statutory Audit report on the financial statements of the Company for the financial year 2024-25 is being circulated to the shareholders along with the financial statements. There are no qualifications or adverse remarks made by the Statutory Auditor in their report for the financial year ended March 31, 2025.
During the year under review, the Statutory Auditor has not reported, to the Audit Committee, any incident of material fraud committed against the Company by its officers or employees under Section 143 (12) of the Act.
ii. Secretarial Audit Report
The Secretarial Audit report issued by M/s. S Sandeep & Associates, Practising Company Secretaries for the financial year 2024-25 is annexed as Annexure 6 to this report. There are no qualifications or observations made by the Secretarial Auditor in their report for the financial year ended March 31, 2025.
Pursuant to Regulation 24A of the Listing Regulations,
the Secretarial Audit report of Malabar Institute of Medical Sciences Ltd, a material unlisted subsidiary of the Company issued by M/s. Ashique and Associates,
Practising Company Secretaries, for the financial year 2024-25 is annexed as Annexure 6A to this report.
During the year under review, the Secretarial Auditor has not reported to the Audit Committee any incident of fraud committed against the Company by its officers or employees under Section 143 (12) of the Act.
28. MATERIAL CHANGES AND COMMITMENTS AFFECTING FINANCIAL POSITION
There have been no material changes and commitments which affect the financial position of the Company that have occurred between the end of the financial year to which the financial statements relate and the date of this report.
29. ANNUAL RETURN
Pursuant to Section 92(3) of the Act and Rule 12 of the Companies (Management and Administration) Rules, 2014, the Annual Return for FY 2024-25 is available on Company's website at https:/www.asterdmhealthcare.in/investors/
corporate-governance/annual-returns
30. SIGNIFICANT AND MATERIAL ORDERS
There are no significant or material orders passed by any Regulators or courts or tribunals impacting the going concern status and Company's operations in future.
31. BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY
The Company is into the business of establishing and operating hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and other healthcare facilities. There has been no change in the nature of business during the financial year.
32. DISCLOSURE OF CERTAIN TYPES OF AGREEMENTS BINDING THE COMPANY
There are no agreements impacting management or control of the Company or imposing any restriction or creating any liability upon the Company in the financial year 2024-25.
33. DISCLOSURE UNDER SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE
The Company has in place a Policy on Prevention of Sexual Harassment ("POSH") at workplace framed under Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition & Redressal) Act, 2013. The Internal Committee (“IC") has been constituted as per the said Act to redress the complaints with respect to sexual harassment. All employees (permanent, contractual, temporary, trainees) are covered under this policy.
(a) number of complaints of sexual harassment received in the year: 9 (nine)
(b) number of complaints disposed off during the year: 9 (nine)
(c) number of cases pending for more than ninety days: Nil Note: The above information is provided on a consolidated basis.
34. DISCLOSURE ON COMPLIANCE OF MATERNITY BENEFITS ACT
The maternity benefits provided by the Company offer financial security, job protection, and adequate time for rest and recovery to female employees during and after childbirth or adoption. By complying with the provisions of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, the Company ensures a supportive and inclusive work environment that promotes the well-being of both the employee and her child.
35. CONSERVATION OF ENERGY, TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION, FOREX EARNINGS AND OUTGO
The information on conservation of energy, technology absorption and foreign exchange earnings and outgo stipulated under Section 134(3)(m) of the Act, read with Rule 8 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014 is annexed as Annexure 7 to this report.
36. MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
The Management Discussion and Analysis as required under the Regulation 34 (3) of the Listing Regulations and Schedule V (B) to the said regulation forms part of the Integrated Annual Report.
37. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
As per Regulation 34 and Schedule V (C) to the Listing Regulations, the Corporate Governance along with the Compliance certificate from the Practicing Company Secretary is annexed as Annexure 8 to this report.
38. BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINIBILITY REPORT
In terms of SEBI Master Circular No. SEBI/HO/CFD/PoD2/ CIR/P/2023/120 dated July 11, 2023 and as per the Regulation 34 (2) (f) of the Listing Regulations, the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report for the year under review is annexed as Annexure 9 to this report.
39. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Your directors thank the Company's shareholders, customers, banks, financial institutions, and well-wishers for their
continued support during the year. Your Directors place on records their appreciation for the contribution made by the employees at all levels. The Company's consistent growth was made possible by their hard work, solidarity, co-operation, and support. The Board sincerely expresses its gratitude to Government of India, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Reserve Bank of India, Foreign Investment Promotion Board, Securities and Exchange Board of India, Bombay Stock Exchange Limited, National Stock Exchange of India Limited and Governments of Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra for the guidance and support received from them including officials thereat from time to time.
40. INTEGRATED REPORT
The Company has voluntarily provided an Integrated Report, encompassing both financial and non-financial information, to enable members to gain a comprehensive understanding of its performance and value creation.
The Report also covers the organisation's strategy, business model, stakeholder engagement, governance framework, performance, approach to risk management, and prospects for value creation, drawing on the six forms of capital, viz., financial, manufactured, intellectual, human, Natural, and the social and relationship capital.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors Dr. Azad Moopen
Date : July 30, 2025 Chairman and Managing Director
Place : Kochi DIN: 00159403
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