The Directors have pleasure in presenting the 39th Annual Report of the Company, together with the Audited Standalone and Consolidated Financial Statements, for the financial year ended 31st March 2026. The Report also includes the Auditors' Report on the Standalone and Consolidated Financial Statements for the said financial year.
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REVIEW
Your Company’s performance during the year as compared with that during the previous year is summarized below: H in |akhs
|
S.No.
|
Particulars
|
Standalone
|
Consolidated
|
|
March 31, 2026
|
March 31,2025
|
March 31,2026
|
March 31, 2025
|
|
1
|
Revenue from operations
|
1,30,376.89
|
1,12,156.69
|
1,39,476.26
|
1,20,497.04
|
|
2
|
Profit before finance cost, depreciation and tax expense
|
34974.99
|
32,282.81
|
36,611.91
|
33,724.01
|
|
3
|
Finance Cost
|
319.26
|
901.16
|
32.72
|
19.00
|
|
4
|
Profit before depreciation and tax expense
|
34655.73
|
31,381.65
|
36,579.19
|
33,705.01
|
|
5
|
Depreciation
|
5,717.98
|
3,749.05
|
6000.63
|
3,983.11
|
|
6
|
Profit before exceptional items and tax
|
28937.75
|
27,632.60
|
30,578.56
|
29,721.90
|
|
7
|
Exceptional items
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
8
|
Profit before Tax Expense
|
28937.75
|
27,632.60
|
30,578.56
|
29,721.90
|
|
9
|
Tax Expense
|
611.58
|
1,111.89
|
995.22
|
1,493.78
|
|
10
|
Profit after Tax Expense
|
28326.17
|
26,520.71
|
29,583.34
|
28,228.12
|
|
11
|
Non-controlling interests
|
-
|
-
|
(0.81)
|
95.43
|
|
12
|
Profit after tax expense after non-controlling interests
|
28326.17
|
26,520.71
|
29,584.15
|
28,132.69
|
|
13
|
Add: Surplus at the beginning of the year
|
1,44,471.98
|
1,21,136.62
|
1,49,533.35
|
1,24,571.02
|
|
14
|
Total Available for appropriation
|
1,72,798.15
|
1,47,657.33
|
1,79,117.50
|
1,52,703.71
|
|
Appropriations
|
|
15
|
Dividend including taxes
|
2,571.95
|
2,571.95
|
2,550.00
|
2,556.97
|
|
16
|
Transfer to general reserve
|
1,000.00
|
1,000.00
|
1,000.00
|
1,000.00
|
|
17
|
Utilized for Buyback
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
18
|
Transferred to Capital Redemption Reserve
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
Amortization of Interest on loan to employee trust
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
20
|
Others
|
(1,750.67)
|
(386.60)
|
(57.80)
|
(386.60)
|
|
Total Appropriations
|
1,821.28
|
3,185.35
|
3,492.20
|
3,170.37
|
|
21
|
Surplus carried to Balance Sheet
|
1,70,976.88
|
1,44,471.98
|
1,75,625.30
|
1,49,533.35
|
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS
Standalone and Consolidated Performance
During the financial year under review, your Company delivered a robust financial performance, registering growth across all key financial parameters, including revenue, operating income, profit before tax, profit after tax, and earnings per share.
On a standalone basis, the Company recorded revenue from operations of H130376.89 lakhs and a net profit of H28326.17 lakhs.
On a consolidated basis, the Company reported revenue from operations of H139476.26 lakhs and a net profit attributable to the owners of the Company (after non-controlling interests) of H29584.15 lakhs.
The Company's strong financial performance reflects the resilience of its business model, disciplined execution of its strategic priorities, and continued focus on operational excellence. The management remains committed to driving sustainable growth through customer-centric initiatives, operational efficiencies, prudent financial management, and continuous innovation.
Your Company continues to pursue its medium- and long-term strategic objectives with a focus on strengthening its market position, expanding its business opportunities, and delivering consistent value to all stakeholders. The Company will continue to leverage its strengths in products, technology, and human capital to enhance shareholder value. Strategic initiatives undertaken during the year are expected to further strengthen the Company's fundamentals, improve competitiveness, and support sustainable long-term growth.
BUSINESS UPDATE AND STATE OF THE COMPANY'S AFFAIRS
The Management Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") Report, forming an integral part of this Annual Report, provides a detailed review of the Company's business performance, industry structure and developments, opportunities and threats, outlook, risks and concerns, internal control systems, financial and operational performance, material developments in human resources, and other matters, as applicable.
The MD&A Report has been prepared in compliance with the requirements of Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, as amended, and provides an overview of the state of the Company's affairs during the financial year under review.
DIVIDEND
The Board of Directors, at its meeting held on 12th November 2025, declared an Interim Dividend of 250%, i.e., H5.00 per equity share of face value H2.00 each, for the financial year ended 31 March 2026. The said Interim Dividend was paid to the eligible shareholders on 18th November 2025.
Pursuant to Regulation 43A of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, the Company has adopted a Dividend Distribution Policy, which sets out the guiding principles for the declaration and payment of dividends. The Policy is available on the Company's website athttps://www.kaveriseeds. in/wp-content/uploads/policies/Dividend-Distribution-Policy.pdf
TRANSFER OF AMOUNT TO RESERVES
During the financial year ended 31st March 2026, the Company transferred H10.00 Crores to the General Reserve in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules made thereunder.
SHARE CAPITAL
During the year under review, there was no change in the Authorised Share Capital of the Company.
The paid-up Equity Share Capital of the Company as on 31st March 2026 stood at h1,028.78 Lakhs, comprising 5,14,39,071 Equity Shares of ?2/- each fully paid-up.
The Company has not issued any shares with differential voting rights nor granted any stock options during the year under review. The equity shares of the Company continue to rank pari-passu in all respects, including dividend entitlement.
STATUTORY AUDITORS AND AUDITORS’ REPORT
The Report of the Statutory Auditors forms part of this Annual Report. The Auditors have not made any qualification, reservation, adverse remark, or disclaimer in their report. Further, during the
year under review, the Statutory Auditors have not reported any instance of fraud under Section 143(12) of the Companies Act, 2013 to the Audit Committee of the Company.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 139 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014, the Members of the Company at the 35th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 29th September 2022 re-appointed M/s.M. Bhaskar Rao & Co., Chartered Accountants (Firm Registration No. 000459S), as the Statutory Auditors of the Company to hold office from the conclusion of the 35th AGM until the conclusion of the 40th AGM.
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), vide its notification dated 7th May 2018, omitted the requirement under the first proviso to Section 139(1) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Rule 3(7) of the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014 relating to the annual ratification of the appointment of Statutory Auditors by the Members at every AGM.
Accordingly, M/s. M. Bhaskar Rao & Co., Chartered Accountants, continue as the Statutory Auditors of the Company until the conclusion of the 40th AGM, as approved by the Members at the 35th AGM.
INTERNAL AUDITORS
The Board of Directors of the Company has re-appointed M/s. M. Anandam & Co., Chartered Accountants, as the Internal Auditors of the Company to conduct the Internal Audit for the financial year ending 31st March 2026. The Internal Audit Reports are reviewed by the Audit Committee on a quarterly basis to monitor the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company's internal control systems.
COST AUDITORS
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 148(1) of the Companies Act,
2013, read with the Companies (Cost Records and Audit) Rules,
2014, the Company is not required to maintain cost records. Accordingly, the requirement for appointment of a Cost Auditor and conduct of a cost audit is not applicable to the Company.
SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
As on March 31, 2026, the Company has four Indian subsidiaries and one foreign wholly owned subsidiary.
During the financial year under review, there was no material change in the nature of the business carried on by any of the subsidiaries. Further, no company became or ceased to be a subsidiary, joint venture or associate of the Company during the year.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 129(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, a statement containing the salient features of the financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries in Form AOC-1 forms part of the Financial Statements.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 136 of the Companies Act, 2013, the audited standalone and consolidated financial statements of the Company, together with the audited financial statements of its subsidiaries and other relevant documents, are available on the Company's website athttps://www.kaveriseeds. in/investors/subsidiaries-financials/. The annual accounts of the subsidiary companies shall also be made available to any member of the Company seeking such information and are available for inspection at the Registered Office of the Company and at the registered offices of the respective subsidiary companies during business hours in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act.
Foreign Subsidiary
Kaveri Seed Company Bangladesh Private Limited, Bangladesh, is a wholly owned foreign subsidiary of the Company. The subsidiary did not undertake any business operations during the financial year under review and, accordingly, there was no operational activity during the year.
OUTLOOK AND FUTURE PLANS
The Management Discussion and Analysis section of this Annual Report contains details regarding the Company's outlook and future plans. Members are requested to refer to that section for further information.
PARTICULARS OF CONTRACTS OR ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE RELATED PARTIES
During the financial year under review, all related party transactions entered into by the Company were in the ordinary course of business and on an arm's length basis and were in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, as amended ("SEBI Listing Regulations").
There were no material related party transactions entered into by the Company with its Promoters, Directors, Key Managerial Personnel, Subsidiaries, or other related parties that could have had a potential conflict with the interests of the Company. Further, there were no contracts or arrangements with related parties requiring disclosure under Section 188(1) of the Companies Act, 2013.
Accordingly, the particulars of contracts or arrangements with related parties prescribed under Section 134(3)(h) of the Companies Act, 2013, read with Rule 8(2) of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, are provided in Form AOC-2, which forms an integral part of this Annual Report.
The Company has formulated a comprehensive Related Party Transactions Policy in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI Listing Regulations. The Policy provides a framework for the identification, review, approval, monitoring, and reporting of related party transactions to ensure that such transactions are undertaken in a transparent manner and in the best interests of the Company and its stakeholders.
All related party transactions are placed before the Audit Committee on a periodic basis for its review and approval in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI Listing Regulations.
The Related Party Transactions Policy is hosted on the Company's website and can be accessed athttps://kaveriseeds.in/wp-content/ uploads/policies/RPT.pdf
EXTRACT OF ANNUAL RETURN
Pursuant to Section 134(3)(a) read with Section 92(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Rule 12 of the Companies (Management and Administration) Rules, 2014, the Annual Return of the Company as at 31st March, 2026 is available on the Company's website and can be accessed athttps://www.kaveriseeds.in/wp- content/uploads/documents/MGT-9.pdf
SECRETARIAL AUDITOR AND SECRETARIAL AUDIT REPORT
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Companies Act, 2013, read with the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, and Regulation 24A of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, as amended, the Board of Directors, at its meeting held on 13th August 2025, based on the recommendation of the Audit Committee, appointed M/s. L. D. Reddy & Co., Practicing Company Secretaries (C.P. No. 3752), as the Secretarial Auditor of the Company for a term of five consecutive financial years, commencing from FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30. The appointment was subsequently approved by the Members at the 38th Annual General Meeting of the Company.
The Secretarial Audit Report for the financial year ended 31st March 2026, issued by M/s. L. D. Reddy & Co., confirms that the Company has complied with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, the Rules made thereunder and the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, as amended, and other applicable laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines.
The Secretarial Audit Report does not contain any qualification, reservation, adverse remark, or disclaimer. The Report is annexed to this Board's Report as Annexure - A.
ANNUAL SECRETARIAL COMPLIANCE REPORT
The Company has undertaken an audit for the financial year 2025-26 to verify compliance with all applicable provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Regulations and the circulars/guidelines issued thereunder. The Annual Secretarial Compliance Report for the financial year 2025-26, issued by Mr. L. Dhanamjay Reddy, Practicing Company Secretary, Hyderabad, was submitted to the Stock Exchanges within the prescribed timeline. The said report forms part of the Corporate Governance section of this Annual Report.
BOARD'S RESPONSE ON AUDITOR'S QUALIFICATIONS, RESERVATIONS, ADVERSE REMARKS OR DISCLAIMER
There were no qualifications, reservations, adverse remarks, or disclaimers made by the Statutory Auditors in their Audit Report or by the Practicing Company Secretary in the Secretarial Audit Report for the financial year ended 3st March 2026. Accordingly, no comments or explanations by the Board are required in this regard.
Further, during the year under review, no instances of fraud were reported by the auditors under Section 143(12) of the Companies Act, 2013.
AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors comprises Mr. Krishna Mohan Prasad (Chairman), Mrs. M. Chaya Ratan, Dr. Rayappa Ramappa Hanchinal, and Mr. C. Mithunchand as members of the Committee.
During the year, the Board accepted all the recommendations made by the Audit Committee. Further details are provided in the Corporate Governance Report section of this Annual Report.
NOMINATION AND REMUNERATION COMMITTEE
The Nomination and Remuneration Committee presently comprises Mr. Narasing Rao Singayapally (Chairman), Mrs. M. Chaya Ratan, and Dr. Rajesh Kumar Mittal as members.
RISK MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
The Company recognizes that effective risk management is essential for achieving its strategic objectives and sustaining long-term value creation. Accordingly, it has established a robust enterprise-wide risk management framework to identify, assess, monitor, and mitigate key business risks while leveraging opportunities arising from the evolving business environment.
Pursuant to the applicable provisions of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, the Board has constituted a Risk Management Committee comprising Dr. Rayappa Ramappa Hanchinal, Independent Director, as the Chairman, and Mr. C. Vamsheedhar and Mr. C. Mithunchand as Members. The Committee assists the Board in overseeing the implementation and effectiveness of the Company's risk management framework and policy.
The Company has adopted a Risk Management Policy that provides a structured approach for identifying, evaluating, monitoring, and mitigating strategic, operational, financial, regulatory, cyber, environmental, and other emerging risks that may affect the Company's business objectives. Risks are assessed based on their likelihood, potential impact, and the adequacy of existing control mechanisms. Appropriate mitigation plans are implemented and periodically reviewed to ensure their effectiveness.
In compliance with Section 134(3)(n) of the Companies Act, 2013, the Company has implemented an integrated risk management framework to ensure that significant risks are identified, evaluated, and managed through appropriate internal control systems and mitigation measures. The senior management periodically reviews the risk landscape and reports significant risk exposures and mitigation actions to the Risk Management Committee and the Board, as appropriate.
The Risk Management Committee periodically reviews the Company's risk profile, the effectiveness of mitigation measures, and emerging risks that may impact the business. The Audit Committee provides additional oversight with respect to financial reporting risks, internal financial controls, and compliance risks. Significant risks identified across various business functions are continuously monitored, and necessary corrective and preventive actions are undertaken to minimize their impact.
The details of the Company's risk management framework and its implementation are also covered in the Management Discussion and Analysis Report, which forms part of this Annual Report. The Risk Management Policy is available on the Company's website athttps://www.kaveriseeds.in/images/pdf/images/Risk- Management-Policy final.pdf.
STAKEHOLDERS’ RELATIONSHIP COMMITTEE:
The Stakeholders' Relationship Committee of the Company has been duly constituted in accordance with the provisions of Regulation 20 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, read with Section 178 of the Companies Act, 2013. Details regarding the composition of the Committee and its functioning are provided in the Corporate Governance Report, which forms an integral part of this Annual Report.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with Section 133 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the applicable accounting standards, including Ind AS 110 (Consolidated Financial Statements) and AS 23 (Accounting for Investments in Associates), the Board of Directors presents the Consolidated Financial Statements for the financial year ended March 31,2026, as part of this Annual Report.
As required under Section 136 of the Companies Act, 2013, the audited financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries are available separately on the Company's website at:https://www. kaveriseeds.in/investors/subsidiaries-financials/
INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS AND THEIR ADEQUACY
The Company has established a comprehensive and robust internal control framework commensurate with the nature, size, and complexity of its business operations. The internal financial controls are designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting, safeguarding of
assets, prevention and detection of frauds and errors, operational efficiency, and compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.
The Board of Directors, through the Audit Committee, oversees the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company's internal control systems. The Audit Committee periodically reviews the reports and recommendations of the Statutory Auditors, Internal Auditors, and Secretarial Auditors and ensures that appropriate corrective and preventive actions are implemented by the management wherever required.
The Internal Audit function operates independently and adopts a risk-based audit approach. Annual internal audit plans are developed after evaluating key business risks and are approved by the Audit Committee. The scope of internal audits encompasses financial, operational, compliance, and process controls across various business functions, with the objective of continuously evaluating and strengthening the Company's control environment.
Significant audit observations, along with the status of implementation of management action plans, are regularly presented to the Audit Committee. The Committee monitors the progress of corrective actions and reviews the effectiveness of the internal audit function through periodic assessments of audit coverage, key findings, implementation timelines, and closure of audit observations.
The Audit Committee meets at least four times during the financial year to review the effectiveness of the Company's internal audit, risk management, internal financial controls, and governance processes. The Internal Audit function also provides assurance and advisory services by identifying process improvement opportunities, strengthening internal controls, and promoting best governance practices.
Based on the reviews carried out during the year, the Board is of the opinion that the Company's internal control systems and internal financial controls are adequate and operating effectively. The Company remains committed to continuously enhancing its control framework to support sustainable growth, effective risk management, and sound corporate governance.
ADEQUACY OF INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROLS WITH REFERENCE TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company has established an adequate Internal Financial Controls (IFC) framework with reference to the financial statements, encompassing Internal Controls over Financial Reporting (ICOFR) as well as operational controls across key business processes. These controls are designed to support the achievement of the Company's business objectives, facilitate adaptation to the evolving business environment, mitigate risks to acceptable levels, promote sound decision-making, and uphold high standards of Corporate Governance.
The key features of the Company's internal financial control framework are as follows:
a. ERP-Based Record Management: The Company maintains its major financial and operational records through an integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and timely availability of information.
b. Internal Audit Mechanism: The Company has appointed independent Internal Auditors to evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls and to assess compliance with the Company's approved policies and procedures. The Internal Auditors submit their reports to the Audit Committee on a quarterly basis. The audit findings, along with management's responses and corrective actions, are reviewed during the approval of the quarterly financial statements.
c. Governance Policies and Control Framework: The
Board of Directors has adopted and implemented a comprehensive set of governance policies, including the Related Party Transactions Policy, Whistle Blower Policy, Policy on Determination of Material Subsidiaries, Corporate Social Responsibility Policy, Policy on Disclosure of Material Events, Document Retention and Preservation Policy, Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy, Code of Conduct under Insider Trading Regulations, Code of Conduct for Senior Management, Nomination and Remuneration Policy, Board Diversity Policy, Dividend Distribution Policy, Risk Management Policy, and other operational procedures. These policies provide a robust control environment that supports the orderly and efficient conduct of business, safeguards the Company's assets, prevents and detects fraud and errors, ensures the accuracy and completeness of accounting records, and facilitates the timely preparation of reliable financial information.
Based on the established framework and periodic assessments, the Board is of the opinion that the Company's internal financial controls with reference to the financial statements are adequate and operating effectively during the year under review.
INDIAN ACCOUNTING STANDARDS - IFRS CONVERGE STANDARDS
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, vide notification dated 16 February 2015, notified Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) under Section 133 of the Companies Act, 2013, read with the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015, as amended from time to time. Ind AS are converged with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
The Company has adopted Ind AS as applicable and has prepared its financial statements in accordance with the recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure principles
prescribed therein, complying with the applicable standards in all material respects.
DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT:
Pursuant to the requirement of Section 134(3)(c) and 134(5) of the Companies Act, 2013 and on the basis of explanations given by the executives of the Company and subject to disclosures in the Annual Accounts of the Company from time to time, the Directors confirm that:
(a) in the preparation of the annual financial statements, the applicable accounting standards have been followed along with proper explanation relating to material departures, if any;
(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) proper and sufficient care has been taken for the maintenance of adequate accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, for safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities;
(d) the annual accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis;
(e) the Directors have laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the Company and that such internal financial controls are adequate and were operating effectively; and
(f) proper systems have been devised to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems are adequate and operating effectively.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
Your Company is managed and controlled by a Board comprising an optimum blend of Executive and Non-Executive Directors. As on date the Board of Directors comprises of Ten (12) Directors consisting of Five Executive Directors including the Chairman & Managing Director, One Non-Executive Director and Six Independent Directors including the Women Independent Director.
The composition of the Board is in conformity with Regulation 17 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 and the relevant provisions of the Companies Act, 2013. The Directors possess requisite qualifications and experience in general corporate management, strategy, finance, administration and other allied fields which enable them to contribute effectively to the Company in their capacity as Directors of the Company.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 203 of the Companies Act, 2013 the Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) of the Company as on March 31,2026 are: Mr. G.V.Bhaskar Rao, Chairman & Managing Director, Mr. K.V. Chalapathi Reddy, Chief Financial Officer and Mrs. V.Sreelatha, Company Secretary. During the year under review, there were no changes in the KMP of the Company.
Independent and Non-Executive Directors:
As prescribed under Listing Regulations and pursuant to Section 149(6) of the Act, the particulars of Non-Executive and Independent Directors (as on the date of signing of this report) are as under: Mrs. M.Chaya Ratan, Dr. R.R.Hanchinal, Sri Krishna Mohan Prasad, Sri S. Narasing Rao, Dr. Rajesh Kumar Mittal and Dr. Govnda Rajulu Chintala,
Appointment/re-appointment:
During the year, the appointment of Dr. Madhushree Gundavaram (DIN: 10978554) as a Non-Executive Non-Independent Director and Dr. Govinda Rajulu Chintala (DIN: 03622371) as an Independent Non-Executive Director of the Company was approved by the members at their 38th Annual General Meeting.”
Further, the re-appointment of Dr. Rayappa Ramappa Hanchinal (DIN: 08138621) as an Independent Director of the Company for a term of five years commencing from 9th February 2026 to 8th February 2031, notwithstanding attainment of the age of 75 years, was also approved by the members at the 38th Annual General Meeting.
Director(s) retiring by rotation:
In accordance with the provisions of Section 152 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the Company’s Articles of Association, Mr. C. Vamsheedhar (DIN: 01458939) and Mr. C.Mithunchand (DIN: 00764906), retires by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and being eligible, offers himself for re-appointment.
Information u/r 36(3) of SEBI (LODR), Regulations, 2015:
As required under Regulation 36 (3) of the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, brief particulars of the Directors seeking appointment/re-appointments are given as Annexure to the notice of the AGM forming part of this Annual Report.
DECLARATION FROM INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS ON ANNUAL BASIS:
The Company has received declarations from all Independent Directors in accordance with Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation 16(1)(b) read with Regulation 25 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 confirming that they meet the criteria of independence and are not debarred from holding the office of director by SEBI or any other regulatory authority.
The Independent Directors have confirmed compliance with the Code for Independent Directors as prescribed under Schedule IV of the Companies Act, 2013 and have further affirmed that no
circumstances exist which may impair their ability to discharge their duties independently and objectively.
They have also confirmed their registration with the databank of Independent Directors maintained by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs and compliance with the applicable requirements relating to proficiency test under Section 150 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Companies (Appointment and Qualifications of Directors) Rules, 2014, wherever applicable.
The Independent Directors have further confirmed that they have no pecuniary relationship or transactions with the Company, except for sitting fees and reimbursement of expenses incurred for attending meetings of the Board and its Committees.
Based on these declarations, the Board has confirmed that the Independent Directors continue to meet the prescribed criteria of independence and that there has been no change in circumstances affecting their status. The Board is satisfied with the integrity, expertise and experience of all Independent Directors.
A certificate from a Practicing Company Secretary confirming that none of the Directors are disqualified or debarred from holding office forms part of this Report as Annexure.
Registration of Independent Directors in the Independent Directors' Databank
In terms of the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, all Independent Directors of the Company are registered with the Independent Directors' Databank maintained by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA). The Independent Directors have confirmed that they meet the applicable requirements relating to registration in the Databank and, wherever applicable, have complied with the prescribed proficiency assessment requirements.
COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD
The details of the composition of the Board of Directors and its Committees are provided in the Corporate Governance Report, which forms an integral part of this Annual Report.
MEETING OF INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
Pursuant to the provisions of Schedule IV to the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation 25(3) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, a separate meeting of the Independent Directors of the Company was held on 12th February 2025 under the Chairmanship of Dr. R. R. Hanchinal, Independent Director, without the presence of the Non¬ Independent Directors and members of the Management.
The Independent Directors, inter alia, reviewed and evaluated:
• the performance of the Non-Independent Directors and the Board as a whole;
• the performance of the Chairman of the Company, taking into account the views of the Executive and Non¬ Executive Directors; and
• 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 its duties.
The Independent Directors expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Non-Independent Directors, the Chairman, and the Board as a whole. They also noted that the flow of information between the Management and the Board was adequate, timely, and of appropriate quality to enable the Board to effectively discharge its responsibilities.
FAMILIARIZATION PROGRAMME FORINDEPENDENT DIRECTORS:
In terms of the requirements of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, the Company has adopted a Familiarization Programme for its Independent Directors to enable them to understand the Company's business, industry, operations, governance framework, and the regulatory environment in which it operates.
At the time of appointment and on an ongoing basis, Independent Directors are familiarized with the Company's business model, strategic priorities, operational and financial performance, industry dynamics, risk management framework, internal control systems, and corporate governance practices. They are also briefed on their roles, rights, responsibilities, and duties under the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, and other applicable laws.
The familiarization programme includes presentations by the Chairman, Managing Director, Executive Directors, Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary, business heads, and other members of senior management on the Company's operations, business segments, strategy, financial performance, regulatory developments, sustainability initiatives, and key business risks. Independent Directors are also encouraged to interact with senior management to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Company's business and operations.
The Board is periodically updated on significant changes in the business environment, industry trends, statutory and regulatory developments, and other matters that may have a material impact on the Company. Such updates enable the Independent Directors to effectively discharge their responsibilities and contribute meaningfully to the deliberations of the Board and its Committees.
The details of the Familiarization Programme imparted to the Independent Directors, including the number of programmes attended and the cumulative hours spent by the Directors, are available on the Company's website. A web link to the Familiarization Programme is also provided in the Report on Corporate Governance, which forms part of this Annual Report.
NUMBER OF MEETINGS OF THE BOARD AND AUDIT COMMITTEE
During the financial year under review, four Meetings of the Board of Directors and four Meetings of the Audit Committee were convened and held.
The Meetings of the Board of Directors were held on 19th May, 2025, 13th August, 2025, 6th November, 2025, and 9th February, 2026.
The Meetings of the Audit Committee were held on 19th May, 2025, 13th August, 2025, 6th November, 2025, and 9th February, 2026.
The details of the attendance of Directors at the Board Meetings and the Audit Committee Meetings held during the Financial Year 2025-26 form part of the Corporate Governance Report.
The interval between two consecutive Board Meetings was within the period prescribed under the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, the applicable SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, and other applicable statutory requirements.
CHANGE IN THE NATURE OF BUSINESS, IF ANY:
There is no change in the nature of business of the company or any of its subsidiaries during the financial year under review.
DEPOSITS:
During the financial year ended March 31,2026, the Company did not accept or renew any deposits from the public or its members under Section 73 of the Companies Act, 2013, read with the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014. Accordingly, no amount of principal or interest on such deposits was outstanding as at March 31,2026.
DETAILS OF DEPOSITS NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE ACT:
During the financial year ended March 31,2026, the Company has not accepted any deposits within the meaning of Sections 73 to 76 or any other applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 (“the Act”) read with the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014. Accordingly, there were no deposits accepted by the Company that were in contravention of the provisions of the Act and the rules made thereunder.
Further, pursuant to the notification issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (“MCA”) dated January 22, 2019, amending the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014, the Company is required to file a return of particulars of transactions not considered as deposits, in Form DPT-3, with the Registrar of Companies (“ROC”), in respect of outstanding receipts of money or loans received by the Company which are not considered as deposits under the Act.
The Company has duly complied with the aforesaid requirements and filed the requisite Form DPT-3 with the ROC within the prescribed timelines.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE BOARD
Pursuant to the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, and the Guidance Note on Board Evaluation issued by SEBI on January 5, 2017, the Board of Directors has carried out an annual performance evaluation of the Board, its Committees, and individual Directors.
The performance evaluation of the Board was conducted based on feedback received from all Directors and considered various parameters, including Board composition and structure, effectiveness of Board processes, quality and adequacy of information provided, participation and contribution of Directors, and overall functioning of the Board.
The performance evaluation of the Committees was carried out by the Board based on inputs received from the respective Committee members, taking into account parameters such as composition, effectiveness of meetings, discharge of responsibilities, and contribution towards achieving the objectives of the respective Committees.
A separate meeting of the Independent Directors was held to evaluate the performance of the Non-Independent Directors, the Chairman of the Company, and the Board as a whole, in accordance with applicable provisions. The evaluation was conducted after considering the views of Executive Directors and Non-Executive Directors.
The Nomination and Remuneration Committee and the Board reviewed the performance of individual Directors based on criteria including their preparedness, active participation, constructive contribution, and valuable inputs during Board and Committee meetings.
The performance evaluation of Independent Directors was completed, and the evaluation of the Chairman and Non¬ Independent Directors was carried out by the Independent Directors. The Board expressed its satisfaction with the evaluation process and the results thereof.
BOARD DIVERSITY
The Company recognizes the importance of having a diverse Board that brings together varied experience, expertise, knowledge, perspectives, and backgrounds. Over the years, the Company has been privileged to have eminent individuals from diverse fields serving on its Board of Directors.
In accordance with the requirements of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee has formulated a Policy on Board Diversity to ensure an appropriate balance of skills
and diversity in terms of experience, knowledge, perspective, background, gender, age, and culture.
The Policy on Board Diversity is available on the Company’s website and may be accessed at:https://kaveriseeds.in/Wp- content/uploads/policies/Policv-on-Board-Diversitv.pdf
APPOINTMENT OF DIRECTORS AND REMUNERATION POLICY
The appointment of Directors to the Board is based on a comprehensive evaluation of various criteria, including integrity, ethical standards, personal and professional stature, domain expertise, experience, gender diversity, and the specific qualifications and competencies required for the role. The suitability of a prospective Board member is further assessed based on the independence criteria prescribed under Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013, and Regulation 16(1)(b) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, wherever applicable.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 178(3) of the Companies Act, 2013, Regulation 19(4) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, and the recommendations of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, the Board has approved and adopted a Remuneration Policy governing the appointment, remuneration, and evaluation of Directors, Key Managerial Personnel (KMP), Senior Management Personnel, and other employees of the Company.
The Nomination and Remuneration Policy is available on the Company’s website athttps://kaveriseeds.in/wp-content/uploads/ policies/NRC.pdf
The detailed terms of reference, composition, and other disclosures relating to the Nomination and Remuneration Committee are provided in the Corporate Governance Report forming part of this Annual Report.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The Company has always believed in adopting and adhering to the best practices of Corporate Governance and is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in all its operations.
A detailed Report on Corporate Governance, covering the governance philosophy, policies, practices, and initiatives adopted by the Company, forms part of this Annual Report.
The Certificate issued by M/s. L.D. Reddy & Co., Practicing Company Secretaries, Hyderabad, confirming compliance with the requirements of Corporate Governance as stipulated under the applicable provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, is annexed to the Corporate Governance Report.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
The Management Discussion and Analysis Report for the financial year under review, as required under Regulation 34(2)(e) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, forms part of this Annual Report.
The report provides an overview of the industry structure and developments, business performance, operational and financial performance, opportunities and threats, risks and concerns, internal control systems, and future outlook of the Company.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 135 of the Companies Act,
2013, read with the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014, the Company has constituted a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Committee of the Board. The CSR Committee is entrusted with the responsibility of formulating and recommending the CSR Policy, recommending the amount of expenditure to be incurred on CSR activities, monitoring the implementation of the CSR Policy and projects, and performing such other functions as prescribed under the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules made thereunder.
During the year, the CSR Committee comprised Mr. G. V. Bhaskar Rao as Chairman, Mrs. G. Vanaja Devi and Dr. R. R. Hanchinal as Members.
The Company undertakes its CSR initiatives through Kaveri Bhaskar Rao Charitable Trust, a company incorporated under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013, to implement CSR programmes and other charitable activities in accordance with the Company's CSR Policy and the applicable statutory provisions.
The Annual Report on CSR activities, containing the disclosures prescribed under the Companies Act, 2013 and the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014, forms part of this Annual Report as Annexure - B.
The CSR Policy of the Company is available on the Company's website at https://www.kaveriseeds.in/wp-content/uploads/
policies/CSRPOLICY.pdf
ENERGY CONSERVATION, TECHNOLOGYABSORPTION, AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS AND OUTGO
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 134(3)(m) of the Companies Act, 2013, read with Rule 8 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules,
2014, the particulars relating to conservation of energy, technology absorption, and foreign exchange earnings and outgo are set out in Annexure C, which forms an integral part of this Report.
EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION SCHEME(S)
Kaveri Seed Company Limited - Employee Stock Option Plan 2024
Pursuant to the approval of the Members at the 37th Annual General Meeting held on 30th September 2024, the Company adopted the Kaveri Employee Stock Option Plan, 2024 ("ESOP 2024"), including its extension to the eligible employees of the Group Companies, in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 ("SEBI SBEB & SE Regulations").
The ESOP 2024 is administered by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee ("NRC"), which acts as the Compensation Committee for the purposes of the SEBI SBEB & SE Regulations 2021. The Scheme is implemented through the Kaveri Employees Trust, with Barclays Wealth Trustees (India) Private Limited acting as the Trustee for acquisition of equity shares from the secondary market and administration of the Scheme.
The NRC is entrusted with the responsibility of administering the Scheme, including formulation of detailed terms and conditions, determining the eligibility of employees, identifying the employees to whom stock options may be granted, deciding the number of options to be granted, and prescribing the vesting and other terms of such grants. The NRC is also authorised to determine the eligibility of employees of the Company's existing and future subsidiary/group companies for participation under the Scheme.
The ESOP 2024 has been introduced with the objective of attracting, motivating and retaining talented employees, aligning their long-term interests with those of the Company and its shareholders, rewarding sustained performance, and fostering a culture of ownership and long-term value creation.
During the financial year 2025-26, the Trust acquired 2,55,850 equity shares of the Company from the secondary market for implementation of ESOP 2024. Consequently, as at 31 March 2026, the Trust held an aggregate of 3,98,202 equity shares acquired from the secondary market.
On 30th March 2026, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee granted 1,42,352 stock options to the eligible employees of the Company at an exercise price of ?790 per option under ESOP 2024. No stock options were exercised during the financial year. The stock options granted under ESOP 2024 shall vest after completion of one year from the respective date of grant and not later than four years from the date of grant, or within such other period as may be determined by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee in accordance with the terms of the Scheme.
Kaveri Employee Stock Option Scheme, 2018 (ESOP 2018)
The Kaveri Employee Stock Option Scheme, 2018 ("ESOP 2018") continues to be administered in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI SBEB & SE Regulations.
Under ESOP 2018, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee had granted an aggregate of 8,79,491 stock options. Out of the said grant, 8,32,791 stock options were exercised by the eligible employees. The balance 46,700 stock options lapsed on account of resignation of employees and/or non-exercise of the options within the stipulated exercise period.
The corresponding 46,700 equity shares, representing the un¬ appropriated inventory of shares held by the ESOP Trust against the lapsed stock options, were subsequently disposed of by the Trust through the secondary market. The sale proceeds were utilised towards repayment of the outstanding loan availed by the ESOP Trust for acquisition of shares, in accordance with the provisions of the SEBI SBEB & SE Regulations and the terms of ESOP 2018.
The Company confirms that both ESOP 2024 and ESOP 2018 are in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI SBEB & SE Regulations, as amended from time to time, and that no material changes were made to either Scheme during the financial year under review.
The disclosures required under Regulation 14 of the SEBI SBEB & SE Regulations, together with the certificate issued by the Secretarial Auditors certifying that the Schemes have been implemented in accordance with the applicable SEBI Regulations and the resolutions passed by the Members, are available on the Company's website and will also be available for electronic inspection by the Members during the ensuing Annual General Meeting.
The disclosures pursuant to Regulation 14 of the SEBI SBEB & SE Regulations 2021, may be accessed on the Company's website at:https://www.kaveriseeds.in/wp-content/uploads/documents/ ESOP Disclosure.pdf
PARTICULARS OF EMPLOYEES, DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGERIAL PERSONNEL
The disclosures relating to remuneration of employees, as required under the provisions of Section 197(12) of the Companies Act, 2013 ("the Act") read with Rule 5(2) and Rule 5(3) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, as amended, form part of this Report.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 136 of the Act, the Annual Report is being circulated to the Members excluding the aforesaid statement. The said statement is available for inspection by the Members at the Registered Office of the Company during business hours on all working days up to the date of the ensuing Annual General Meeting. Any Member desirous of obtaining a copy of the statement may submit a written request to the Company Secretary at the Registered Office of the Company, and the same will be provided free of cost.
The information required pursuant to Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, including the ratio of the
remuneration of each Director to the median remuneration of the employees, the percentage increase in remuneration and other prescribed particulars, is set out in Annexure - D, which forms an integral part of this Report.
AFFIRMATION ON REMUNERATION POLICY
Pursuant to the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, the Board of Directors has, on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, adopted a Policy on Selection, Appointment and Remuneration of Directors, Key Managerial Personnel and Senior Management Personnel.
The Policy lays down the guiding principles and criteria for the selection, appointment, succession planning, performance evaluation and remuneration of Directors, Key Managerial Personnel and Senior Management Personnel. The Policy aims to ensure that the Company attracts, retains and motivates competent and experienced professionals and that the remuneration paid is commensurate with individual performance, responsibilities, industry practices and the long-term interests of the Company and its stakeholders.
Your Directors hereby affirm that the remuneration paid to the Directors, Key Managerial Personnel, Senior Management Personnel and other employees during the financial year 2025-26 was in accordance with the Remuneration Policy of the Company.
INSURANCE
All properties and insurable interests of the Company have been fully insured.
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS INSURANCE (D&O)
In compliance with the requirements of Regulation 25(10) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, the Company has in place a Directors and Officers Liability Insurance (D&O Insurance) policy covering all the Directors and Key Managerial Personnel of the Company. The policy provides appropriate protection against liabilities that may arise in the discharge of their duties and responsibilities.
BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Pursuant to Regulation 34(2)(f) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) of the Company for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 forms an integral part of this Annual Report and is also available on the Company's website athttps://www.kaveriseeds.in/wp-content/uploads/ documents/BRSR202526.pdf.
The BRSR provides a comprehensive overview of the Company's policies, practices, and performance across Environmental,
Social and Governance (ESG) parameters. The Report has been prepared in accordance with the updated BRSR framework prescribed by SEBI and includes disclosures on the applicable Essential Indicators as well as Leadership Indicators, reflecting the Company's commitment to sustainable, responsible and transparent business practices and long-term value creation for all stakeholders.
DIVIDEND DISTRIBUTION POLICY
Pursuant to Regulation 43A of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, the Company has adopted a Dividend Distribution Policy, which sets out the guiding principles and parameters to be considered by the Board while recommending or declaring dividends.
The Dividend Distribution Policy is available on the Company's website and can be accessed at the following web link:https:// www.kaveriseeds.in/wp-content/uploads/policies/Dividend- Distribution-Policv.pdf
MATERIAL CHANGES AND COMMITMENTS AFFECTING THE FINANCIAL POSITION OF THE COMPANY
There were no material changes or commitments affecting the financial position of the Company that occurred between the end of the financial year, i.e., March 31,2026, and the date of this Report.
Further, there has been no change in the nature of the business of the Company during the year under review or up to the date of this Report.
REVISION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
During the year under review, there was no revision of the financial statements of the Company. Accordingly, the provisions of Section 131 of the Companies Act, 2013 relating to the revision of financial statements were not applicable.
EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO THE DATE OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
There have been no material events or changes, including any material commitments, affecting the financial position of the Company, which have occurred between the end of the financial year ended March 31,2026, and the date of this Report.
PARTICULARS OF LOANS, GURANTEES OR INVESTMENTS
During the year under review, the Company has not provided any loans or guarantees covered under the provisions of Section 186 of the Companies Act, 2013, except for investments made and advances extended to its subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business for business purposes.
The particulars of investments made under Section 186 of the Companies Act, 2013, read with the Companies (Meetings of the Board and its Powers) Rules, 2014, are disclosed in the Financial Statements forming part of this Annual Report and should be read in conjunction with this Report.
VIGIL MECHANISM / WHISTLE BLOWER POLICY
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 177 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Rule 7 of the Companies (Meetings of Board and its Powers) Rules, 2014 and Regulation 22 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, the Company has established a Vigil Mechanism / Whistle Blower Policy to provide a formal mechanism for Directors, employees and other stakeholders to report genuine concerns regarding unethical behaviour, actual or suspected fraud, violations of the Company's Code of Conduct, or any other misconduct.
The Vigil Mechanism provides adequate safeguards against victimisation of whistle blowers and ensures that all protected disclosures are dealt with in a fair, transparent and confidential manner. The Policy also provides direct access to the Chairperson of the Audit Committee in appropriate and exceptional cases.
During the year under review, no person was denied access to the Chairperson of the Audit Committee, and the Company affirms that the Vigil Mechanism operated effectively throughout the year.
The Vigil Mechanism / Whistle Blower Policy is available on the Company's website at:https://kaveriseeds.in/wp-content/uploads/ policies/WHISTLE-BLOWER-POLICY.pdf
SIGNIFICANT AND MATERIAL ORDERS PASSED BY THE COURTS/REGULATORS OR TRIBUNALS
During the financial year under review, no significant or material orders were passed by any regulatory authority, court, or tribunal that could have an impact on the going concern status of the Company or materially affect its future operations.
Further, no application was made, nor were any proceedings pending against the Company under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, as amended, during the financial year under review.
LISTING ON STOCK EXCHANGES
The equity shares of the Company are listed on the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) and BSE Limited (BSE). The annual listing fees for the financial year 2025-26 have been duly paid to both the Stock Exchanges.
The Company has not issued any equity shares with differential rights as to dividend, voting, or otherwise.
TRANSFER OF UNPAID AND UNCLAIMED AMOUNTS TO THE INVESTOR EDUCATION AND PROTECTION FUND (IEPF)
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 124 and 125 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (Accounting, Audit, Transfer and Refund) Rules, 2016, as amended ("IEPF Rules"), the unpaid or unclaimed dividend amounts pertaining to the financial year(s), which remained unclaimed for a period of seven consecutive years, were transferred by the Company during the financial year 2025-26 to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) established by the Central Government.
In accordance with the IEPF Rules, the corresponding equity shares in respect of which dividends remained unpaid or unclaimed for seven consecutive years were also transferred to the demat account of the IEPF Authority during the financial year 2025-26.
Before effecting the transfer, the Company duly complied with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the IEPF Rules by issuing individual notices to the concerned shareholders and publishing the requisite notices in newspapers, advising them to claim their unpaid or unclaimed dividends within the prescribed timeline to avoid transfer of the corresponding shares to the IEPF.
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT
The Company is committed to maintaining the highest standards of industrial safety, occupational health, and environmental protection across all its operations. It conducts its business in a responsible and sustainable manner, ensuring the safety and well¬ being of employees, contractors, visitors, and other stakeholders while complying with all applicable statutory and regulatory requirements relating to health, safety, and the environment.
The Company continues to accord the highest priority to the safety of its personnel, plant, machinery, and equipment. Robust safety systems, operating procedures, and preventive maintenance practices are in place to minimize operational risks and prevent accidents. Regular safety audits, inspections, risk assessments, emergency preparedness drills, and employee awareness programmes are conducted to strengthen the safety culture and promote safe work practices across all locations.
The Company also remains committed to environmental sustainability by adopting measures for the efficient utilization of natural resources, conservation of energy and water, responsible waste management, pollution prevention, and compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations. Continuous efforts are made to improve environmental performance and promote sustainable business practices.
During the year under review, there were no major industrial accidents or significant environmental incidents affecting the operations of the Company.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE (PREVENTION, PROHIBITION AND REDRESSAL) ACT, 2013
Your Company is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, inclusive and equitable workplace for all employees. In accordance with the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 ("POSH Act")
and the Rules made thereunder, the Company has in place a Policy on Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace and has constituted an Internal Committee (IC) to address complaints relating to sexual harassment.
The Policy provides a robust framework for prevention, prohibition and redressal of sexual harassment at the workplace and ensures a fair, confidential and timely grievance redressal mechanism. The Company continues to conduct regular awareness programmes and sensitization sessions to reinforce employees' understanding of the provisions of the POSH Act and to promote a culture of dignity, mutual respect and equal opportunity.
The details of complaints received and disposed of during the financial year 2025-26 are provided below:
|
Particulars
|
Details
|
|
Number of complaints of sexual harassment received during the year
|
: Nil
|
|
Number of complaints disposed of during the year
|
: Not Applicable
|
|
Number of cases pending for more than ninety (90) days
|
: Not Applicable
|
|
Number of awareness programmes/sensitization sessions conducted
|
: The Company conducts periodic awareness and sensitization programmes for its employees.
|
|
Nature of action taken by the Employer or District Officer
|
: Not Applicable
|
The Company confirms that no complaint of sexual harassment was received during the financial year under review. Accordingly, no case was pending as on March 31, 2026.
The Policy on Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace is available on the website of the Company.https://www.kaveriseeds. in/images/pdf/images/sexual-harrasment-policy.pdf
COMPLIANCE WITH THE MATERNITY BENEFIT (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2017
The Company is committed to ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, as amended by the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017. Eligible women employees are provided maternity benefits and leave in accordance with the statutory requirements.
The Company has also implemented policies relating to post¬ maternity support and surrogacy leave and has made provisions for crbche facilities, wherever applicable, in compliance with the applicable laws. The Company continues to foster an inclusive and supportive work environment that promotes diversity, employee well-being, and a healthy work-life balance.
COMPLIANCE WITH SECRETARIAL STANDARDS ON BOARD AND GENERAL MEETINGS
The Company has complied with all the applicable provisions of the Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) and approved by the Central Government under Section 118(10) of the Companies Act, 2013. During the financial year under review, the Company has adhered
to the applicable Secretarial Standards relating to Meetings of the Board of Directors (SS-1) and General Meetings (SS-2).
CODE OF CONDUCT
The Board of Directors has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics ("Code of Conduct") applicable to all Directors, Key Managerial Personnel, Senior Management Personnel and Employees of Kaveri Seed Company Limited and its subsidiaries. The Board oversees the effective implementation and administration of the Code across the organization.
The Code of Conduct reflects the Company's commitment to conducting its business with integrity, honesty, fairness, transparency and in compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations. It provides a framework for ethical decision-making and guides all Directors, Key Managerial Personnel, Senior Management Personnel and Employees in the discharge of their duties and responsibilities while maintaining the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct.
The Code also reinforces the Company's commitment to fostering a respectful, inclusive and responsible work environment and promoting fair dealings with customers, suppliers, shareholders, business associates, regulatory authorities and the communities in which the Company operates.
The Code of Conduct is available on the Company's website. All Board Members and Senior Management Personnel have affirmed compliance with the Code of Conduct for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, in accordance with Regulation 26(3) read with Schedule V of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015. A declaration to this effect, signed by the Managing Director, forms part of the Corporate Governance Report.
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR THE PREVENTION OF INSIDER TRADING
Pursuant to the provisions of the SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015, as amended, the Board of Directors has adopted and implemented a Code of Conduct for the Prevention of Insider Trading and a Code of Practices and Procedures for Fair Disclosure of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI).
The Code lays down the framework for regulating, monitoring and reporting trading in the Company's securities by Designated Persons and other connected persons. It prescribes the procedures to be followed and disclosures to be made while dealing in the securities of the Company and provides for appropriate disciplinary action in case of any violation. The Code is designed to preserve the confidentiality of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information, prevent misuse of such information, and ensure compliance with the applicable provisions of the SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015 and other applicable laws. The Company is committed to maintaining the highest standards of transparency, integrity and ethical conduct in all dealings relating to its securities.
INITIATIVES FOR STAKEHOLDER RELATIONSHIP
The Company remains committed to maintaining transparent, timely and effective communication with its stakeholders, particularly shareholders, investors and analysts. Through its Investor Relations ("IR") programme, the Company engages with the investment community through periodic earnings calls, investor meetings and other appropriate forums to provide updates on its business performance, strategic initiatives and future outlook.
The Company ensures that all material information and statutory disclosures are promptly disseminated to the Stock Exchanges in accordance with the applicable provisions of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 and are simultaneously made available on the Company's website under the Investor Relations section. The Company continues to adopt best practices in investor relations and corporate governance with a view to enhancing transparency, fostering investor confidence and building long-term relationships with all stakeholders.
HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
At Kaveri Seed Company Limited, our people are our most valuable asset and the cornerstone of our sustained growth and success. The Company is committed to building a high-performance, values-driven organization by fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, learning, and accountability. Our employees contribute significantly across research and development, product development, production, supply chain, quality assurance, marketing, sales, and support functions, enabling the Company to consistently deliver value to its stakeholders.
The Company continues to strengthen its human capital by attracting, developing, and retaining talented professionals with the right competencies, while providing an inclusive and engaging work environment that encourages innovation, professional growth, and high performance. Human Resource practices are closely aligned with the Company's strategic business objectives, ensuring that employees remain motivated, empowered, and equipped to meet evolving business requirements.
As on March 31, 2026, the Company had a workforce of 1452 employees, whose dedication, expertise, and commitment continue to drive the Company's operational excellence and long-term growth.
Talent Development and Learning
The Company firmly believes that continuous learning is essential for building organizational capability and maintaining competitive advantage. A structured learning and development framework is in place to enhance employees' technical, functional, behavioural, managerial, and leadership competencies.
Every new employee undergoes a comprehensive induction programme designed to familiarize them with the Company's values, organizational culture, business operations, Code of Conduct, Human Resource policies, safety standards, and compliance requirements. The induction process is periodically reviewed and enhanced based on employee feedback and evolving organizational needs.
Employees participate in role-based functional training programmes that strengthen domain expertise and improve operational effectiveness. In addition, safety and compliance training programmes are conducted regularly to reinforce the Company's commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and compliant workplace.
The Company also promotes continuous on-the-job learning through structured mentoring, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and customized development programmes tailored to individual roles and career aspirations.
Recognizing the importance of innovation in the seed industry, the Company actively encourages its scientists and research professionals to participate in national conferences, workshops, and technical forums. These programmes facilitate exposure to industry developments and global best practices.
To further enrich technical expertise, the Company regularly engages eminent scientists, senior consultants, and industry experts in the fields of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Biotechnology, Agronomy, Seed Technology, Plant Pathology, Entomology, and related disciplines to conduct knowledge-sharing sessions. These initiatives foster scientific excellence, encourage innovation, and support the development of superior hybrid and varietal products capable of addressing the evolving needs of Indian agriculture and improving farmers' productivity and income.
Performance Recognition
The Company believes that recognizing employee contributions is fundamental to building a culture of excellence. To acknowledge and encourage outstanding performance, the Company confers the "Utkrishta Puraskar" every quarter across various departments. The programme recognizes exceptional individual contributions, reinforces merit-based performance, and motivates employees to consistently achieve organizational objectives while upholding the Company's core values.
Employee Stock Option Plan
The Company recognizes that employee ownership strengthens long-term commitment and aligns employees' interests with those of shareholders. Accordingly, the Company has implemented Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs) to attract, retain, motivate, and reward high-performing employees while fostering an ownership-oriented culture.
The Company's Employee Stock Option Plans are administered by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee of the Board in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021. The ESOP framework serves as an important component of the Company's long-term talent retention and employee engagement strategy.
The Company remains committed to nurturing a diverse, inclusive, and performance-driven workplace where employees are empowered to realize their full potential while contributing meaningfully to the Company's sustainable growth and long-term value creation.
GREEN INITIATIVE
In line with the Green Initiative introduced by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), the Company continues to support paperless compliance by electronically disseminating Annual Reports and other statutory communications to Members whose email addresses are registered with their respective Depository Participants or the Company's Registrar and Share Transfer Agent, as applicable.
The electronic mode of communication promotes timely dissemination of information, enhances operational efficiency, reduces paper consumption, and contributes to environmental sustainability.
The Annual Report and other statutory communications are also available on the Company's website athttps://www.kaveriseeds. in/investors/financial-information/#tab-annual-reports. In addition, these documents are accessible on the websites of the Stock Exchanges, namely BSE Limited and National Stock Exchange of India Limited.
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS
Industrial relations across all the Company's operations remained cordial and harmonious throughout the financial year under review. The Company continued to foster a positive work environment built on mutual trust, respect, transparency, and collaboration, enabling uninterrupted business operations and enhanced employee engagement.
Your Directors place on record their sincere appreciation for the dedication, commitment, and valuable contributions made by all employees at every level. The Company firmly believes that its employees are its most valuable asset, and their continued support, teamwork, and professionalism will remain instrumental in achieving the Company's strategic objectives and sustaining long-term growth.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Your Directors wish to place on record their sincere appreciation for the commitment, dedication and exemplary efforts of the employees at all levels, whose continued support and hard work have significantly contributed to the Company's performance during the year.
The Board expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the Company's distributors, dealers, customers and the farming community for their continued trust, confidence and patronage. Their enduring association remains a key pillar of the Company's success.
Your Directors also acknowledge with gratitude the valuable support and co-operation extended by the Company's bankers, financial institutions, government and regulatory authorities, business associates, suppliers and other stakeholders. The Board is deeply thankful to the shareholders for their continued confidence in the Company and looks forward to their sustained support as the Company continues its journey of sustainable growth and long-term value creation.
By Order of the Board of Directors For KAVERI SEED COMPANY LIMITED
Sd/- Sd/-
Date: 13.08.2026 G.V.BHASKAR RAO G.VANAJA DEVI
Place: Secunderabad Managing Director Whole time Director
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