To the Members,
Advani Hotels & Resorts (India) Limited
Your directors take pleasure in presenting the Thirty Seventh (37th) Annual
Report together with the Audited Financial Statements of the Company for the Financial
Year ended March 31, 2024.
1. Financial Results
Your Company's financial performance during the Financial Year ended March 31, 2024 is
summarized below:
(Rs.in Million)
Particulars |
2023-24 |
2022-23 |
Total Income |
1084.38 |
1,006.29 |
Profit before Depreciation, Finance Costs and Tax |
369.19 |
411.52 |
Less: Depreciation |
33.06 |
26.27 |
Profit before Finance Costs and Tax |
336.13 |
385.25 |
Less: Finance Costs |
1.19 |
1.64 |
Profit before Tax |
334.94 |
383.61 |
Less: Provision for Taxation |
|
|
Current Tax |
83.80 |
94.40 |
Deferred Tax Liability / (Asset) |
(0.65) |
2.36 |
Tax for earlier years |
2.22 |
0.80 |
Profit for the year After Tax |
249.57 |
286.05 |
Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) Net oftax |
(0.82) |
(0.17) |
Total Comprehensive Income for the year |
248.75 |
285.88 |
Profit brought forward from last year |
332.88 |
217.14 |
Profit Available for Appropriation |
581.63 |
503.03 |
Less: Appropriations |
170.24 |
170.45 |
Balance Profit carried to the Balance Sheet |
411.39 |
332.88 |
Basic and Diluted Earnings per Equity Share of 2 each (*) |
2.70 |
3.09 |
* Earning Per Share for the year 2022-2023 has been adjusted against for the current
and previous period and presented in accordance with Ind AS 33, "Earning Per
Share". (Refer Paragraph 7 for further details of bonus issue).
2. Operational Performance of the Company:
The Company has maintained the business momentum and achieved a total income of
1084.4 million during the Financial Year 2023 2024, which was 8% higher compared to
1006.3 million in the previous Financial Year. This is despite diversion of several
flights from Dabolim Airport in South Goa to the new MOPA Airport in North Goa, increase
in domestic tourists traveling overseas for holidays and a reduction in foreign tourists
into Goa. The Caravela organized 45 weddings in FY24, representing the hotel's all-time
high wedding business. Additionally, improvements in MICE (Meetings, Incentives,
Conferences and Exhibitions) further boosted revenue.
During the Financial Year 2023 2024, the Company declared maiden Bonus Issue of
Equity Shares in the ratio of 1:1 i.e. 1 new Equity Share for every 1 Equity Share held
and two interim dividends to reward the shareholders of the Company for their longstanding
support.
The Hotel recorded an average occupancy of 83.9% in FY24, compared to 82.5% in FY23.
The Total Revenue Per Occupied Room per night (TRevPOR) also increased during FY24 to
18,798, up from 17,556 in FY23.
During the Financial Year 2023 2024, the Company experienced a decline in
earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) to 369.2
million, representing a decrease from 411.5 million in the previous Financial Year. The
Company achieved EBITDA margin of 34%.
After considering finance costs of 1.2 million and depreciation of 33.1 million,
Profit Before Tax was 334.9 million, which is 13% lower than the previous Financial
Year.
With a tax provision of 85.3 million, Profit After Tax amounted to 249.6 million in
the Financial Year, compared to 286.0 million in the previous Financial Year.
The other highlights for the Financial Year 2023 2024 are as follows:
3 Cash Generated from Operations of 379.8 million in the Financial Year,
versus 356.9 million in the previous Financial Year.
3 Return on Assets of 26.3% in the Financial Year, versus 34.7% in the previous
Financial Year.
Awards and Recognitions during the Financial Year 2023-24
3 Mr. Sunder G. Advani, Chairman & Managing Director of the Company, received the
Lifetime Achievement Award' from Economic Times ET Hospitality.
3 Mr. Prahlad S. Advani, CEO of the Company, was honored with the Excellence in
Business Award' by Economic Times ET Hospitality.
3 The Caravela Beach Resort, Goa, has been granted the 5-Star DELUXE classification by
the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
3 The Caravela Beach Resort, Goa, received the Excellence in Luxury Award' at the
prestigious Economic Times ET Hospitality Awards Goa 2023.
3 The Caravela Beach Resort, Goa has proudly received the prestigious Booking.com
Travellers Review Award' for the year 2024, marking its seventh consecutive win.
This award is based on verified customer satisfaction scores and reviews from our esteemed
guests.
3 The Caravela Beach Resort, Goa was honored with the "TripAdvisor Travelers'
Choice Award for 2023". This accolade underscores our unwavering dedication, hard
work, and commitment to excellence in the hospitality sector. Achieving recognition among
the top 10% of properties globally is a remarkable feat, reflecting the exceptional
experiences and positive feedback shared by our guests.
3 The Caravela Beach Resort, Goa achieved the prestigious Level 3 Travel
Sustainable Badge' from Booking.com, acknowledging our Company's substantial investments
and efforts towards implementing impactful sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
3 The Caravela Beach Resort has been recognized as the Best Luxury Beachfront
Wedding Resort India' for 2023 by Hotel of the Year.
3 The Beach Hut restaurant at the Caravela Beach Resort, Goa, received the Times
Food Award 2024'.
3. Borrowings:
The Company continues to be debt free and maintains sufficient liquid reserves to meet
its strategic and operational requirements.
4. Dividend and Dividend Distribution Policy:
The Company declared its first Interim Dividend of 2 per Equity Share, representing
100% of the paid-up Equity Share Capital, on January 29, 2024. Additionally, the Company
declared a second Interim Dividend of 0.80 per Equity Share, constituting 40% of the
paid-up Equity Share Capital (Post Bonus), on May 22, 2024, for the Financial Year ended
March 31, 2024.
This makes the total Interim Dividends for the FinancialYear 2023 2024 to
166.39 million, versus 157.1 million in the previous Financial Year 2022 2023.
The Company's share capital increased due to the issuance of bonus shares; hence dividend
payouts are not comparable with previous years.
To conserve resources for future growth requirements, your Board is not recommending
any further dividend for the Financial Year under review.
The Company has voluntarily adopted a Dividend Distribution Policy' in lines with
the provisions of Regulation 43A of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015 ("Listing Regulations").
5. Reserves:
During the Financial Year under review, a sum of 13 million (previous year
13 million) was transferred to the General Reserve.
6. Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG):
Sustainability has been ingrained into the core of the Company's operations,
influencing its decision-making process across social, economic and environmental
dimensions.
Environment
During the financial year under review, the Company successfully launched the
Caravela Aqua' water bottling plant at its Goa hotel. This initiative not only
reduced the cost of packaged bottles but also significantly cuts down on the use of
single-use plastic bottles. Additionally , the Company has upgraded its infrastructure
with new installations such as cold room, UV water purifier, new baggage scanner and door
frame metal detector.
Moreover, the implementation of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) on numerous motors has
enhanced efficiency and contributed to electricity savings. The Company has also optimized
its HVAC systems to further manage overall electricity consumption. The Aerator added in
guest rooms and public area taps have resulted into considerable saving in water .
Furthermore, to cater to eco-conscious customers and promote sustainable practices, the
Company has introduced an EV charging station at the hotel.
The Company has recently acquired the following electric buggies:
(i) Guest transportation buggy A new buggy specifically for transporting elderly
guests from the beach lawns to the lobby or their rooms.
(ii) Wheelchair-passenger buggy This buggy is wheelchair-accessible, equipped
with a ramp and designed to safely transport mobility-challenged guests with secure
seating.
(iii) Freight buggy dedicated to delivering fresh, purified water to different
areas within the hotel.
Social
The Employees of the Company are considered primary assets and are supported through
various initiatives such as Leadership Programs, Food Safety Training, Train the Trainer
sessions, interdepartmental engagement and team building activities. Additionally, a new
staff coach has been introduced to further bolster employees' safety.
The Company is also actively engaged with following NGO's / Trusts to carry out its
Corporate Social Responsibility activities. (i) Maharashtra State Women's Council
A Non-Governmental Organisation headquartered in South Mumbai that has over 14
projects, self-created agencies and groups. The Company has collaborated with this
organisation to sponsor the education of less-fortunate children and orphans.
(ii) The Freeset Trust A Non-Governmental Organisation working in the
Sonagachi red-light area of Kolkata, imparting the life-skills necessary to truly
experience freedom, i.e. reading, writing, budgeting and basic health care to those who
truly need it.
(iii) Prasad Chikitsa A charitable trust in Maharashtra, engaged in
upliftment of children and communities through medical programmes, community outreach
activities and more. The Company has collaborated with this organisation to contribute
towards various initiatives such as eradicating hunger and malnutrition, promoting
preventive healthcare and sanitation, as well as organising eye camps that conduct
cataract operations.
(iv) In Defense of Animals A non-profit animal protection organisation,
dedicated towards establishing and defending the rights of all animals.
(v) Goa Gomantak Pashu Rakshak Sanstha (GoaGPRS) An NGO in South Goa
which undertakes various initiatives including rescue centres, adoption camps, medical
outreach programmes and a LEARN Centre focused on educating children about being kind to
each other, the environment and animals.
Governance
The Company understands the importance of robust governance practices in achieving
sustainable and responsible business outcomes. The governance framework is designed to
ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct across all levels of our
operations. Key highlights of governance approach include:
Board Oversight: The Board of Directors actively oversees risks and opportunities,
integrating them into strategic decision-making processes.
Policies and Standards: The Company has established clear policies and standards
that align with global best practices and regulatory requirements, encompassing areas such
as environmental stewardship and corporate ethics.
Stakeholder Engagement: Regular engagement with stakeholders, including
shareholders, employees, customers and communities, ensures that we address their concerns
and integrate their feedback into our governance practices.
Reporting and Transparency: Transparent reporting on performance allows
stakeholders to evaluate our commitments, achievements and areas for enhancement.
7. Share Capital of the Company:
As on March 31, 2024, the Authorised Share Capital of the Company was 25,00,00,000
(Rupees Twenty Five Crore only) divided into 12,50,00,000 Equity Shares of 2 (Rupees Two
only) each.
During the Financial Year, the Company has allotted Bonus Equity Shares in the ratio of
1:1, i.e. 1 new Equity Share for every 1 Equity Share held on the Record Date.
Consequently, the Paid-up Share Capital of the Company increased from 9,24,38,500
divided into 4,62,19,250 Equity Shares, having face value of 2 each fully paid-up, to
18,48,77,000, divided into 9,24,38,500 Equity Shares, having face value of 2 each fully
paid-up.
8. Subsidiary / Joint Ventures / Associate Companies:
The Company had no Subsidiary, Joint Ventures or Associate Company during the Financial
Year under review.
9. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 ("the
Act"), read with the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility) Rules, 2014, the
Company has formed a Policy on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR Policy'). As
part of its initiatives under CSR, the Company has contributed in promoting Animal
Welfare, Health Care including Preventive Health Care & Empowering Women in accordance
with Schedule VII of the Act read with CSR Policy towards its CSR obligations.
During the year, as against the CSR budget of 27.09 lakh, the Company spent a higher
sum of 39.49 lakh, to ensure continuity in the planned CSR activities resulting in carry
over of 26.86 lakh, for setting-off in succeeding years, which includes 14.46 Lakh
surplus of previous financial year/s.
As required under the provisions of Rule 8 of the Companies (Corporate Social
Responsibility) Rules, 2014, the brief outline / salient features of the CSR Policy of the
Company and Annual Report on the initiatives undertaken by the Company towards its
CSR obligations during the Financial Year under review are set out in "Annexure
A", which forms part of this Report.
The CSR Policy is available on the website of the Company at
https://www.caravelabeachresortgoa.com/investor-relations.html.
10. Business Risk Management:
The Company has a Business Risk Management (BRM) framework to identify and evaluate
business risks and opportunities. This framework seeks to create transparency, minimize
adverse impact on the business objectives and enhance the Company's competitive advantage.
The business risk framework defines the risk management approach across the enterprise at
various levels, including documentation and reporting. The Board of Directors periodically
reviews the risks and suggests steps to be taken to control and mitigate the same through
a properly defined framework.
11. Particulars of Loans, Guarantees and Investments:
The details of loans given, guarantees provided and investments made, if any, by the
Company as required under Section 186 of the Act, read with the Companies (Meetings of
Board and Its Powers) Rules, 2014 are given under Notes to Accounts on the Financial
Statements forming part of this Annual Report.
12. Whistle Blower / Vigil Mechanism Policy:
A fraud-free and corruption-free culture has been the core of the Company. The Company
has established a vigil mechanism for reporting genuine concerns through the Whistle
Blower Policy. It helps the Company to deal with instances of fraud and mismanagement, if
any. The mechanism also provides for adequate safeguards against victimization of
directors and employees who avails of the mechanism and also provide for direct access to
the Chairman of the Audit Committee in exceptional cases. The Whistle Blower Policy is
posted on the Company's website at www.caravelabeachresortgoa.com/investorrelations.
We affirm that during the Financial Year 2023 2024, no employee or director was
denied access to the Audit Committee.
13. Directors and Key Managerial Personnel (KMP):
As on March 31, 2024, the Board of Directors comprised of 10 (Ten) Directors, including
one Independent Women Director. The Board has an appropriate mix of Executive Directors,
Non-Executive Directors and Independent Directors, which is in compliance with the
requirements of the Act and the Listing Regulations and is also aligned with the best
practices of Corporate Governance.
(a) Appointment / Re-appointment:
(i) Mrs. Menaka S. Advani (DIN: 0001375), who retired by rotation at the previous 36th
Annual General Meeting held on September 25, 2023, was re-appointed as Director of the
Company in terms of provisions of Section 152(6) of the Act; (ii) The Board of Directors,
on the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee at its meeting held on
November 13, 2023, has appointed Mr. Satyan Shivkumar Israni (DIN: 01174081) as an
Additional Independent Director of the Company, to hold office for a period of five years
w.e.f November 13, 2023 till November 12, 2028, not liable to retire by rotation. The
members have approved his appointment through postal ballot process on January 3, 2024;
(iii) Upon resignation of Mr. Vikram Soni, Company Secretary & Compliance Officer from
the services of the Company from closing business hours of December 20, 2023, the Board of
Directors of the Company, on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration
Committee, appointed Mr. Deepesh Joishar as Company Secretary & Compliance Officer of
the Company w.e.f. May 22, 2024. The appointment of Mr. Deepesh Joishar as Company
Secretary & Compliance Officer of the Company is pursuant to the provisions of Section
203 of the Act read with the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial
Personnel) Rules, 2014 and Regulation 6 of the Listing Regulations; (iv) The Board of
Directors, on the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee, at its meeting
held on August 14, 2024, appointed Mr. Vinay Chauhan (DIN: 01846655) and Mr. Nitin
Kunkolienker (DIN: 00005211) as Additional Non-Executive Independent Directors, not liable
to retire by rotation, for a term of 5 (five) consecutive years commencing from August 14,
2024 to August 13, 2029, subject to approval of the shareholders in the ensuring Annual
General Meeting; and
(v) The Board of Directors, on the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration
Committee, at its meeting held on August 14, 2024, recommended the appointment of Mr. Anil
Harish (DIN: 00001685) as Non-Executive Independent Director, not liable to retire by
rotation, for a term of 5 (five) consecutive years commencing from November 14, 2024 to
November 13, 2029, subject to meeting criterion of Independence as laid down under the
provisions of Section 149(6) of the Act read with Regulation 16(1)(b) of the Listing
Regulations on the date of his appointment.
(b) Cessation:
(i) Adm. Sureesh Mehta (DIN: 06992229), Independent Director of the Company, resigned
from the Board of Directors of the Company w.e.f. the close of business hours of April 21,
2023 due to advancing age and ill health as mentioned in his resignation letter;
(ii) Dr. Shivkumar Dhalumal Israni (DIN: 00125532), Independent Director of the
Company, resigned from the Board of Directors of the Company w.e.f. the close of business
hours of October 17, 2023 due to his advancing age and ill health as mentioned in his
resignation letter;
The Board places on record its sincere appreciation for the valuable contribution made
by them during their tenure as Independent Directors of the Company; and
(iii) Mr. Vikram Soni, Company Secretary & Compliance Officer of the Company,
resigned from the services of the Company w.e.f. the close of business hours of December
20, 2023.
(c) Retirement by rotation:
In accordance with the provisions of Section 152 of the Act read with the Companies
(Management and Administration) Rules, 2014 and Articles of Association of the Company,
Mr. Prahlad S. Advani (DIN: 06943762), Whole Time Director and CEO of the Company retires
by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and being eligible, has offered himself
for re-appointment and your Board of Directors, on the recommendation of Nomination and
Remuneration Committee, recommends his re-appointment to the members of the Company.
Brief resume and other details of the directors proposed to be appointed / re-appointed
as stipulated under Regulation 36(3) of the Listing Regulations and Secretarial Standard
2 on General Meetings, is given in the Notice convening the 37th Annual
General Meeting of the Company.
(d) Declaration from Independent Directors:
The Company has received declaration from all the Independent Directors of the Company
confirming that they meet the criteria of independence as prescribed both under Section
149(6) of the Act and Regulation 16(1)(b) of the Listing Regulations and pursuant to the
provisions of Regulation 25 of the said Regulations that they are not aware of any
circumstance or situation, which exist or may be reasonably anticipated, that could impair
or impact their ability to discharge their duties with an objective independent judgment
and without any external influence. The Independent Directors have also confirmed that
they have complied with Schedule IV of the Act and the Company's Code of Conduct.
Further, the Independent Directors have also submitted their declarations in compliance
with the provisions of Rule 6(3) of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of
Directors) Rules, 2014, which mandates the inclusion of an Independent Directors' name in
the data bank of Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs ("IICA") till they
continue to hold the office of an Independent Director.
None of the Directors of your Company are disqualified under the provisions of Section
164 of the Act. Your directors have made necessary disclosures, as required under various
provisions of the Act and the Listing Regulations.
In the opinion of the Board of Directors, all the Independent Directors are persons of
integrity and possesses relevant expertise, experience and are independent of the
management.
(e) Evaluation of the Board's Performance:
The Board of Directors has devised a policy pursuant to the provisions of the Act and
the Listing Regulations for performance evaluation of the Chairperson, Board as a whole,
Individual Directors (including Independent Directors) and Committees which includes
criteria for performance evaluation of Non-Executive Directors and Executive Directors.
The Nomination and Remuneration Committee of the Company has specified the manner of
effective evaluation of the performance of the Board, its committees and individual
directors of the Company and has authorized the Board to carry out the evaluation of their
performance. Based on the manner specified by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee,
the Board has devised questionnaire to evaluate its performance and performance of its
Committees and individual directors and the Chairperson. The performance of each Committee
was evaluated by the Board, based on report on evaluation received from respective Board
Committees. The reports on performance evaluation of the Individual Directors were
reviewed by the Chairman of the Board.
The evaluation framework for assessing the performance of directors comprise of the
following key areas: (i) Attendance at the Board and Committee Meetings; (ii) Quality of
contribution to Board deliberations; (iii) Strategic perspectives or inputs regarding
future growth of Company and its performance; and (iv) Providing perspectives and feedback
going beyond information provided by the management.
(f) Familiarization Programme for Independent Directors:
In compliance with the Regulation 25(7) of the Listing Regulations, the familiarization
programme aims to provide Independent Directors with the hospitality industry scenario,
the socio-economic environment in which the Company operates, the business model, the
operational and financial performance of the Company, significant developments etc., so as
to enable them to take well informed decisions in a timely manner. The familiarization
programme also seeks to update the directors on the roles, responsibilities, rights and
duties under the Act and other statutes.
The policy on Company's familiarization programme for Independent Directors and the
details of familiarization programmes imparted to the Independent Directors, their roles,
rights, responsibilities in the Company, nature of the industry in which the Company
operates, business model of the Company and related matters, including the number of hours
spent by each Independent Director in such programmes, is posted on the Company's website
at www.caravelabeachresortgoa.com/investorrelations.
(g) Key Managerial Personnel:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 203 of the Act, the Key Managerial Personnel of
the Company as on March 31, 2024 were:
Sr. |
|
|
|
Name |
Designation |
No. |
|
|
1. |
Mr. Sunder G. Advani |
Chairman & Managing Director (Promoter) |
2. |
Mr. Haresh G. Advani |
Executive Director (Promoter) |
3. |
Mr. Prahlad S. Advani |
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Whole-Time Director (Promoter Group) |
4. |
Mr. Ajay G. Vichare |
Chief Financial Officer |
14. Managerial Remuneration and other details:
Disclosure pertaining to remuneration and other details 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 are provided in this Report as "Annexure B"
and forms part of this Report.
The statement containing particulars of employees as required under Section 197(12) of
the Act read with Rules 5(2) and 5(3) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of
Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 is provided in a separate annexure forming part of this
Report. Further in terms of Section 136 of the Act, the report and accounts are being sent
to the members excluding the aforesaid annexure. The said annexure is available for
inspection at the registered office of the Company during the working hours and any member
interested in obtaining a copy of the same may write to the Company Secretary &
Compliance Officer of the Company and the same will be furnished on request.
15. Remuneration Policy:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 178 of the Act and Regulation 19 of the Listing
Regulations and on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, the
Board of Directors has adopted a policy for selection and appointment of Directors, Key
Managerial Personnel (KMPs'), Senior Management Personnel (SMPs') and their
remuneration which inter-alia requires that the Directors, KMPs and SMPs shall be of high
integrity with relevant expertise and experience and criteria for determining
qualifications, positive attributes, independence of director and other matters, while
recommending the candidature for the appointment as a person as Director, KMP or SMP.
The main objective of the said Policy is to ensure that the level and composition of
remuneration is sufficient to attract, retain and motivate the Directors, KMPs and SMPs.
The Remuneration Policy is placed on the website of the Company viz.
https://www.caravelabeachresortgoa.com/investor-relations. html.
16. Management Discussion and Analysis & Corporate Governance Reports:
Pursuant to the provisions of Regulations 34(2) & (3) and Schedule V of the Listing
Regulations, the following have been made part of this Report:
3 Management Discussion and Analysis Report;
3 Corporate Governance Report;
3 Declaration on compliance with Code of Conduct;
3 Certificate from Practicing Company Secretary that none of the Directors on the Board
of the Company has been debarred or disqualified from being appointed or continuing as
Directors of companies; and
3 Auditors' Certificate regarding compliance conditions of Corporate Governance.
17. Compliance with Secretarial Standards:
The Company has devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions of all
applicable Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India
and your Directors confirm compliance of the same during the Financial Year under review.
18. Adequacy of Internal Financial Control System with reference to the Financial
Statements:
The Company has designed and implemented a process-driven framework for Internal
Financial Controls (IFC) within the meaning of the explanation in Section 134(5)(e) of the
Act.
The Company's internal controls system has been established on values of integrity and
operational excellence. The formal and independent evaluation of internal controls and
initiatives for remedial of deficiencies by the Internal Auditors has resulted in a sound
framework for internal controls, commensurate with the size and complexity of the
business.
The internal control framework essentially has two elements: (1) structures, policies
and guidelines designed to achieve efficiency and effectiveness in operations and
compliance with laws and regulations; and (2) an assurance function provided by Internal
Auditors.
The Company has Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for various processes which are
periodically reviewed for changes warranted due to business needs. The Internal Auditors
continuously monitor the efficiency of the internal controls / compliance with SOPs with
the objective of providing to the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors, an
independent, objective and reasonable assurance of the adequacy and effectiveness of the
organization's risk management, control and governance processes. This formalized system
of internal control facilitates effective compliance of Section 138 of the Act and the
Listing Regulations.
The Audit Committee meets regularly to review reports, including significant audit
observations and follow-up actions thereon. The Audit Committee also meets the Company's
Statutory Auditors to obtain their views on Financial Statements including the financial
reporting system, compliance to accounting policies and procedures, the adequacy and
effectiveness of the internal control system.
The Internal Auditor also identifies areas for improvement in the business processes,
designed to add value to the organization and follow-ups on the implementation of
corrective actions and improvements in the business process after review by the Audit
Committee.
The Board is of the opinion that the Company has sound IFC, commensurate with the
nature and size of the business operations, wherein controls are in place and operating
effectively and no material weaknesses exist. The Company has a process in place to
continuously monitor the existing controls and identify gaps, if any. It can implement new
and / or improved controls wherever the effect of such gaps would have a material effect
on the Company's operations.
19. Directors' Responsibility Statement:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 134(3)(c) read with Section 134(5) of the Act,
the Board of Directors, to the best of its knowledge and ability, confirms that: (i) In
the preparation of the Annual Accounts, the applicable accounting standards have been
followed and there are no material departures; (ii) They 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 as at end of the Financial Year March 31, 2024 and of the profit of the Company
for that period; (iii) They have taken proper and sufficient care 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; (iv) They have prepared the Annual Accounts for the Financial Year
ended March 31, 2024 on a "going concern" basis; (v) They have laid down
internal financial controls to be followed by the Company and that such internal financial
controls are adequate and were operating effectively; and (vi) They have devised proper
systems to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and that such
systems were adequate and operating effectively.
20. Auditors:
(a) Statutory Auditors and their Report:
As per the provisions of Section 139 of the Act read with the Companies (Audit and
Auditors) Rules, 2014, the members of the Company in their 35th Annual General
Meeting held on September 27, 2022 appointed M/s. J. G. Verma & Co, Chartered
Accountants (ICAI Firm Registration No. 111381W), as Statutory Auditors of the Company for
a term of consecutive 5 years i.e. to hold office from the conclusion of 35th
Annual General Meeting till the conclusion of 40th Annual General Meeting of
the Company to be held for the Financial Year ending March 31, 2027.
M/s. J. G. Verma & Co. have furnished written confirmation to the effect that they
are not disqualified from acting as the Statutory Auditors of the Company in terms of the
provisions of Sections 139 and 141 of the Act and the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules
2014.
The Statutory Auditors' Report on the Financial Statements of the Company for the
Financial Year under review does not contain any qualifications / reservations / adverse
remarks / disclaimers.
The observations and comments given in the Statutory Auditors' Report read together
with the notes to the accounts are self-explanatory, hence do not call for any further
information and explanation under Section 134(3) of the Act.
(b) Secretarial Auditor and their Report:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204(1) of the Act read with the Companies
(Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, the Company has
appointed M/s. BNP & Associates, Company Secretaries, to undertake Secretarial Audit
of the Company for the Financial Year 2023 2024. The Secretarial Audit Report is
annexed to this report as "Annexure C" and forms a part of this Report.
(c) Internal Auditors:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 of the Act read with the Companies (Accounts)
Rules, 2014, the Board, on recommendation of the Audit Committee, re-appointed M/s. BDO
India LLP, as Internal Auditors of the Company for the Financial Year 2023 2024.
The Internal Auditors monitor and evaluate the efficacy and adequacy of internal
control system in the Company, its compliances with operating systems, accounting
procedures and policies at all locations of the Company and reports are presented to the
Audit Committee periodically.
(d) Cost Records and Cost Audit:
The maintenance of cost records and requirement of cost audit as prescribed under the
provisions of Section 148(1) of the Act and rules made thereunder are not applicable for
the business activities carried out by the Company.
(e) Reporting of frauds by Auditors:
During the financial year under review, none of the Auditors of the Company have
reported any fraud as specified under the second proviso of Section 143(12) of the Act.
21. Conservation of Energy, Technology, Absorption, Foreign exchange earnings and
outgo:
As required under Section 134(3)(m) of the Act read with Rule 8(3) of the Companies
(Accounts) Rules, 2014, the particulars relating to conservation of energy, technology
absorption and foreign exchange earnings and outgo are given in "Annexure D" hereto
and forms part of this Report.
22. Annual Return:
The Annual Return of the Company as on March 31, 2024 in accordance with Section 92(3)
read with the Section 134(3)(a) of the Act will be placed on the website of the Company
and can be accessed at the link www.caravelabeachresortgoa.com /investorrelations.
23. Meetings of the Board:
The Board of Directors met 6 (six) times during the Financial Year 2023 2024.
The details of the Board meetings and the attendance of the directors are provided in the
Corporate Governance Report. The gap between two Board meetings was within the period
prescribed under the Act and Listing Regulations.
Notice is given to all directors to schedule the Board Meetings (including Committee
Meetings) well in advance. The agenda and detailed notes on agenda are also sent in
advance and directors can seek further information or clarification on the agenda items
before the meetings so that there is adequate participation of all.
All decisions at the Board Meeting and Committee Meetings are adopted either
unanimously or by majority.
24. Committees of the Board:
Your Company has duly constituted the Committees as required under the Act, read with
applicable Rules made thereunder, and the Listing Regulations.
Details of the Committees constituted by the Board under the Act and Listing
Regulations, along with their composition and changes, if any, during the Financial Year,
and the number and dates of meetings held during the Financial Year under review are
provided in the Corporate Governance Report, which forms part of this Annual report.
25. Audit Committee and its composition:
As on March 31, 2024, the Audit Committee comprised of Mr. Prakash V. Mehta, Mr. Vinod
Dhall, Mr. Adhiraj Harish and Mrs. Menaka S. Advani.
Mr. Prakash V. Mehta is Chairman of Audit Committee of the Company. The Company
Secretary & Compliance Officer of the Company acts as Secretary of the Audit
Committee. All the recommendations made by the Audit Committee were accepted by the Board
of Directors of the Company. Other details with respect to Audit Committee are given in
Corporate Governance Report, which forms part of this Annual report.
The Audit Committee of the Company reviews the reports to be submitted to the Board of
Directors with respect to auditing and accounting matters. It also supervises the
Company's internal control, financial reporting process and vigil mechanism.
26. Particulars of contracts or arrangements with related parties referred to in
Section 188(1) of the Act:
All contracts / arrangements / transactions entered by the Company during the Financial
Year under review with related parties were in the ordinary course of business on arm's
length basis and are entered into based on considerations of various business exigencies,
such as synergy in operations, their specializations etc. and to further the Company's
interests.
No materially significant related party transactions were made by the Company with
Promoters, Directors or Key Managerial Personnel etc. which may have potential conflict
with the interest of the Company at large or which warrants the approval of the members of
the Company.
All contracts / arrangements / transactions entered by the Company during the Financial
Year under review with related parties were in ordinary course of business on arm's length
basis. However, the Company had no material transactions with related parties hence, the
Company is not required to furnish disclosure of material related party transactions as
required under Section 134(3)(h) of the Act in Form AOC-2 for the Financial Year under
review.
All Related Party Transactions are presented to and approved by the Audit Committee /
Board. In accordance with the provisions of Regulation 23 of the Listing Regulations, the
Company has adopted the policy on related party transactions and the same is available on
the Company's website at www.caravelabeachresortgoa.com/investorrelations.
27. Information on sexual harassment of women at workplace:
The Company has zero tolerance towards sexual harassment at the workplace and towards
this end, has adopted a policy in-line with the provisions of Sexual Harassment of Women
at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 and the Rules made
thereunder. All employees (permanent, contractual, temporary, trainees) are covered under
the said policy. An Internal Committee has been set up to redress any complaints received
on sexual harassment.
The Company has complied with the provisions relating to the constitution of the
Internal Committee as required under Section 4 of the Sexual Harassment of Women at
Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. During the Financial Year
under review, there was no complaint filed before the said Committee and there was no
complaint pending at the beginning or end of the Financial Year under review.
28. Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF):
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 124(5) of the Act read with the IEPF Authority
(Accounting, Audit, Transfer and Refund) Rules, 2016 (the Rules'), all Unpaid or
Unclaimed Dividends are required to be transferred by the Company to the IEPF established
by the Government of India after the completion of seven years. Further, according to the
said Rules, the shares on which Dividend remained unpaid or unclaimed by the shareholders
for seven consecutive years or more shall also be transferred to the demat account of the
IEPF Authority. Accordingly, during the Financial Year 2023 2024, the Company
transferred 11,342 Equity Shares on May 4, 2023 and 19,616 Equity Shares on October 9,
2023 to the demat account of the IEPF Authority as per the requirements of the IEPF Rules
for the dividend remained unclaimed / unpaid upto Financial Years 2016-17.
In terms of the provisions of Sections 124(5) and 125 of the Act and said Rules, during
the Financial Year 2023 2024, an amount of 1,96,404, being remained Unpaid /
Unclaimed Dividend (1st Interim Dividend for the Financial Year 2016
2017) was transferred to the IEPF Authority.
Further the Unpaid and Unclaimed Dividend amount lying with the Company for Financial
Year 2017 2018 is due for transfer to the IEPF in the month of January 2025. The
details of the same are available on the Company's website viz. https://www.
caravelabeachresortgoa.com/.
Mr. Vikram Soni, Company Secretary & Compliance Officer of the Company ceased to be
the Nodal Officer w.e.f December 20, 2023 and Mr. Ajay Vichare, Chief financial Officer of
the Company was appointed as Nodal Officer w.e.f January 29, 2024 to ensure compliance
with the IEPF Rules.
Mr. Deepesh Joishar, Company Secretary & Compliance Officer of the Company has been
appointed as Nodal Officer to ensure compliance with the IEPF Rules w.e.f. May 22, 2024.
29. Transfer of Unclaimed Shares to Unclaimed Suspense account of the Company:
The details relating to transfer of shares to the unclaimed Suspense account as
specified in Schedule VI of the SEBI Listing Regulations and the number of shares
transferred from the Unclaimed suspense account to the respective shareholders are
provided in the Corporate Governance Report, which forms part of this Annual Report.
30. Other Disclosures:
Your directors state that no disclosure or reporting is required with respect of the
following matters as there were no transactions on these matters during the financial year
under review:
3 The Company is a debt free Company and has not obtained credit ratings during the
Financial Year 2023 2024.
3 Details relating to deposits covered under Chapter V of the Act.
3 Issue of equity shares with differential rights as to dividend, voting or otherwise
3 No significant or material orders were passed by the Regulators or Courts or
Tribunals which impact the going concern status and Company's operations in future.
However, members' attention is drawn to the Statement on Contingent Liabilities in the
Notes forming part of the Financial Statements.
3 There has been no change in the nature of business of the Company.
3 There were no material changes and commitments affecting the financial position of
the Company between the end of the Financial Year to which the Financial Statements relate
and the date of this report.
3 No proceeding are initiated & pending under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code,
2016.
3 There was no instance of one-time settlement with any Bank or Financial Institution.
31. Acknowledgements:
I am immensely grateful to our Board of Directors for its continuous support and advice
to me all these years. A special thanks to our Shareholders, Tour Operators, Travel
Agents, Booking.com, Make My Trip. Our repeat guests have been the pillar of our strength
and resilience over the years. We are extremely grateful to our Employees, Bankers and
Government officials in the Ministry of Finance, Home, Commerce, External Affairs,
Tourism, Civil Aviation, Labour, Road Transport and Niti Aayog. We are thankful to the
Government of Goa, especially the Honourable Chief Minister. We also thank the Village
Panchayat of Varca for their continuous support.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of
Advani Hotels & Resorts (India) Limited
|
Sunder G. Advani |
Place: Mumbai |
Chairman & Managing Director |
Date: August 14, 2024 |
DIN: 0001365 |