Including Management Discussion and Analysis Report
To the Members,
Your Directors take pleasure in presenting this 73rd Annual Report
along with the Audited Financial Statement for the financial year ended March 31, 2024.
The Company operates only in one business segment that is, Pharmaceuticals
and this Report covers its pharmaceutical business performance.
DIVIDEND
The Board of Directors at its Meeting held on May 17, 2024, recommended a
dividend of Rs35/- (350%) per equity share for the financial year ended March 31, 2024.
The payout for the said dividend will be Rs160.12 Crores. gin gin
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(RsRs in crore)
Particulars |
Year ended March 31, 2024 |
Year ended March 31, 2023 |
Sales of products |
2,081.04 |
2,337.63 |
Other Operating Income |
112.13 |
87.13 |
Revenue from Operations |
2,193.17 |
2,424.76 |
Other Income |
180.51 |
101.05 |
Profit Before Tax |
746.07 |
824.01 |
Income Tax Expense |
194.74 |
200.08 |
Profit for the year |
551.33 |
623.93 |
Total other comprehensive income (net of tax) |
5.45 |
3.61 |
Total comprehensive income for the year |
556.78 |
627.54 |
Your Company's sales for the financial year ended March 31, 2024, stood at Rs2,081.04
Crores as compared to Rs2,337.63 Crores in the previous year, which represents a decline
of 11%. The sales for the year under review are strictly not comparable with that of
previous year, mainly on account of impact of the voluntary recall of Magnex,
Zosyn and Magnamycin and downward revision in ceiling price scheduled of formulations
pursuant to amendment to the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM 2022). The Profit
before tax for the financial year ended March 31, 2024, was Rs746.07 Crores as compared to
Rs824.01 Crores in the previous year, representing a a decline of 9.45%. The profit after
tax stood at Rs551.33 Crores for the financial year ended March 31, 2024, as compared to
Rs623.93 Crores in the previous year.
KEY FINANCIAL RATIOS
Pursuant to the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements), Regulations
2015, we give below the key financial ratios:
Particulars |
FY 2024 |
FY 2023 |
1 Debtors Turnover Ratio |
12.93 |
17.74 |
2 Inventory Turnover Ratio |
1.86 |
2.02 |
3 Interest Coverage Ratio |
N.A. |
N.A. |
4 Current Ratio |
5.01 |
3.84 |
5 Debt Equity Ratio |
N.A. |
N.A. |
6 Mar OperatingProfit |
26% |
29% |
7 NetProfit |
25% |
26% |
8 Return on Net Worth |
16% |
21% |
The Debtors Turnover Ratio has changed by -27.14% mainly on account of increase in
average collection period in current year. The Current Ratio has changed by 30.45% mainly
on account of increase in funds generated from operating activities and corresponding
reduction in VAT provision.
None of the ratios other than the above have undergone a change of more than 25% as
compared to the previous financial year.
The return on net worth is computed as net income by average shareholders equity. The
change in return on net worth was primarily on account of lower sales during the year
under review.
ECONOMIC OVERVIEW
India's economic landscape reflects a narrative of resilience and growth, underscored
by significant as successful moon missions and hosting the prestigious G20 Summit in 2023.
These milestones have bolstered confidence in India's stability and future prospects,
amplifying its allure as an investment destination.
The industrial manufacturing sector, in particular, has experienced a notable surge,
drawing the interest of global technology giants seeking to expand their supplier networks
within India. This momentum is reinforced by the implementation of state industrial
policies, complemented by sector-specific incentive schemes. Concurrently, substantial
investments in logistics and infrastructure development, including new roads, highways and
rail tracks, signal the government's steadfast commitment to fortifying this vital sector.
India's GDP growth in fiscal expectations, registering a remarkable leap of 8.2%. This
out performance defied market analysts anticipating more conservative figures ranging
between 6.3% and 6.6%.
Looking ahead, the World Bank has maintained its economic growth projection for India
at 6.4% for the fiscal year 2025. This outlook is attributed to robust domestic demand,
increased public infrastructure spending, and strong private-sector credit growth.
However, concerns over high food inflation and diminishing may lead to a tapering off in
private consumption growth.
Despite these challenges, India remains poised for growth, buoyed by expectations of a
synchronized global economic rebound in 2025. The World Bank's biannual
Global Economic Prospects' report indicates that India is expected to sustain the
fastest growth rate among the world's largest economies.
Nonetheless, India's trajectory towards becoming the third-largest economy by 2027
remains steadfast. With a projected GDP of USD 5 trillion, coupled with a burgeoning
middle-income class driving demand and consumption,
India's position as a global economic powerhouse is firmly entrenched, promising a
future brimming with opportunity and prosperity.
CURRENT HEALTHCARE AND PHARMACEUTICALS ENVIRONMENT
Indian Pharmaceutical Market Overview:
The Indian Pharmaceutical Market (IPM) with a turnover of Rs216,092 Crores for the
period April 2023 to March 2024 has registered a growth of 7.6% as against 7.9% in the
previous year (2020-24 CAGR 9.5%). Price increase (4%) continues to be the key growth
driver, followed by growth driven by new introductions for the year (3%). such
Multinational companies hold about 17% market share and have grown at 6%.
Therapeutic Growth:
While Chronic segment has slowed down from 11% to 9.7% over MAT, Acute segment has
maintained its growth at 6.3%. Chronic segment growth was impacted by anti-diabetic, CNS
and respiratory segments. New introductions were the predominant growth contributors in
Chronic segment. Acute segment growth is driven by Gastro-intestinal, Vitamin and Pain /
Analgesics. Price is the predominant growth factor in Acute segment.
Market Prognosis:
As per the IQVIA Prognosis Report for FY 2023-24, the year 2024 has surpassed Indian
Pharmaceutical Market (IPM) is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% (?2.0%) between 2023
and 2028, reaching earlier projections, with
~Rs3,33,000 Crores by 2028. The key drivers for market growth include, recent and
future product launches including innovative new drugs in a wide variety of therapy
classes, rising health awareness and broadening promotional coverage helped by
improvements in the health and transport infrastructure and increase in healthcare
insurance coverage. As per the said Report, the key constraints for market growth could
include impact of -updemand trade generics, continuing downward pressure on pricing under
DPCO following the expansion of NLEM and wider implementation of margin caps for
non-scheduled drugs.
Key Pharma Market Events and Trends
Continued government investments to strengthen Healthcare System: : Under
Ayushman Bharat' policy initiative, launched in 2018, the government continues to
strengthen the healthcare system, in line with the goals set out under the 2017 National
Health Policy. Under the initiative, there is focus on expanding and improving public
health infrastructure, train and recruit more health professionals, expand access to free
or subsidized healthcare provision for the country's poorest and create nation-wide
digital health infrastructure.
Rising health awareness and broadening promotional coverage: Post COVID-19 Pandemic
there is rising healthcare awareness which is fuelling demand not only from metro cities
but also from lower town classes. New Go To Market (GTM) strategies have emerged, like
opting for provisional field force and out licensing of brands (both new and established).
More collaboration is seen in recent times where large field force of Indian companies are
leveraged by Multinational Companies (MNCs') to expand their reach.
Product launches: New product launches are forecasted to drive growth, with key
launches anticipated in cardiac & anti-diabetic segments. As per World Obesity
Federation
5.5% of people aged between 15 49 years in India are clinically obese (BMI 30). It
projects this percentage to rise at an annual rate of 5.2% to reach 11% by 2035.
Encouragement of investment in local research and production: The Government of
India's continued support to the healthcare industry through policy interventions like
Research-linked Incentive Scheme for promotion of R&D in pharma has resulted in
increased domestic manufacturing, attracted investment and promoted higher consumption.
Along with this production linked incentive (PLI) schemes were also rolled out.
The policy is aimed to provide a favorable regulatory and investment environment which
will nurture innovation.
Stricter regulation of marketing practices: The Uniform
Code of Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP') guidelines are now being
enforced rigorously. While breaches previously triggered financial penalties, they can now
lead to prosecution as well. Overall guidelines and the new tax rules are likely to lead
the overall industry towards optimization of medical representatives' visits and ethical
practices while dealing with Healthcare Professionals (HCPs').
AN OVERVIEW OF THE PHARMA OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
The government has been fostering self-reliance in alignment with the Atmanirbhar
Bharat while rekindling the imperative of prioritizing domestic innovation that is
not only sustainable but also aligns with global standards. Multiple initiatives like
Production Linked Incentive
Scheme, Promotion of Research & Innovation in Pharma sector (PRIP) the Scheme,
draft National Pharmaceutical Policy and Patents (Amendment) Rules, 2024 are testimony to
government's envisaged direction for the industry.
The government's draft National Pharmaceutical Policy
prioritizesenhancingregulatoryefficiency as one of the core objectives of this policy in
addition to strengthening domestic capabilities. Towards the regulatory regime, your
Company has been advocating the need for a predictable, time-bound, transparent, and
globally aligned regulatory system which would go a long way in expediting access to
lifesaving drugs and providing confidence on quality as well. Certain operational
challenges around regulatory processes, if resolved, will significantly reduce delays,
ensure alignment with best practices around the world and go a long way in helping deliver
safe and effective medicines in the least amount of time.
Your Company has been advocating for fast-tracking patent applications through a
time-bound mechanism and has also made recommendations for development of a framework
which defines timelines across various levels atthepatent to dispose off frivolous
pre-grant oppositions, ensuring that only genuine and bonafide oppositions are held
maintainable. Notification of Patents (Amendment) Rules, 2024 in March 2024 are a welcome
step in the desired direction. Your Company will continue to impress upon for further
reforms to significantly reduce delays in grant of patents and their enforcement.
Further, the Industry also had multiple discussions with Department of Pharmaceuticals
and National
Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) for developing a consensus around
implementation of Trade Margin Rationalization (TMR). Your Company in-principle supports
rationalization of trade margin while advocating for non-trade supplies to be excluded
from the working calculations of TMR.
TRANSFER OF UNExPIRED LEASEHOLD RIGHTS.
The Company has entered into an Agreement on
November 1, 2023 to transfer and assign Pfizer's unexpired leasehold rights in the land
situated at Thane and sale of structures and buildings constructed thereon, to Zoetis
Pharmaceutical Research Private Limited, for a lumpsum consideration of Rs264.40 Crores
(Rupees Two Hundred Sixty-Four Crores and Forty Lakhs only) subject to requisite approvals
from concerned regulatory authorities.
The Company is awaiting requisite approvals from concerned regulatory authorities to
give effect to the aforementioned agreement.
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS
Business Operations:
Your Company's commercial operations are conducted through business units that focus on
clearly defined therapeutic areas. Between these business units, your Company collectively
addresses 15 therapy areas with a portfolio of over 125 products that include therapeutics
and vaccines.
1. Vaccines:
Vaccines being a vital public health advancement stand as one of the most significant
achievements in public health, having contributed to the control, eradication and
substantial reduction of once-deadly infectious diseases. Your Company's Vaccine division
firmly believes that vaccination is a powerful tool to safeguard individuals of all ages
against infectious illnesses. Our mission is to revolutionize infectious disease
prevention, and help people to live longer and healthier lives.
Your Company's Vaccine division currently focuses on Prevenar 13, a Pneumococcal
Conjugate Vaccine.
This vaccine is approved for administering to infants aged 6 weeks and older during
primary vaccination, as well as toddlers, adolescents, adults, and the elderly against
pneumococcal disease. A severe infection, caused by streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, can
impact the lungs, blood, and brain, leading to pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, and even
deathespecially among children under 5 years old, the elderly, and those with
compromised immune systems. Prevenar 13 targets the most common 13 serotypes of
streptococcus pneumoniae and holds the distinction of being India's firstand only approved
conjugated vaccine for all age groups. Your Company's dominance in the private market
pneumococcal vaccines market is evident, with a unit market share of 52% and a value
market share of 64.8% as of MAT March 2024. Additionally, your
Company has received various accolades, including recognition from the India Book of
Records for the highest number of healthcare professionals pledging to use
Pneumococcal Vaccination and the IHW Patient First Award for our outstanding marketing
initiatives that impacted patient lives.
While your Company continues to strengthen its presence in the Paediatric market, the
Company remains committed to establishing Life course vaccination in India.
The Company's initiatives focus on raising awareness and educating various stakeholders
about vaccine-preventable diseases.
These efforts include fostering healthcare provider conviction through scientific
dissemination, developing Indian consensus guidelines for adult vaccination, forming
partnerships with corporate hospitals to create Centres of Excellence, driving strong
consumer awareness through innovative initiative such as Lung Star Show, Duty@50 Campaign
and collaborating with associations like Economic
Times World (through the VaxFit initiative) to build a robust adult vaccination
ecosystem.
2. Inflammation and Immunology:
Pfizeris a global leader in discovering and developing novel therapeutics for patients
living with chronic autoimmune diseases. Inflammation & Immunology vertical focused on
the next generation of therapies in this space. Your Company's current portfolio includes
two advanced therapies, which cater to patients suffering from diseases related to chronic
immune system such as Rheumatoid Arthritis,
Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Juvenile
Idiopathic Arthritis and Ulcerative Colitis.
Betrecep (Tofacitinib) was launched by your Company in July 2023, for the treatment
of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Ulcerative
Colitis. Betrecep is an India-specific access solution aims to improve affordability and
access for patients in India. As per the latest IQVIA
MAT March 2024 data Betrecep has climbed to 6th rank within first nine
months from launch, in a highly competitive market with more than 50 brands. Apart from
Rheumatologists, your Company has expanded coverage to dermatologists and
gastroenterologists and has driven advocacy for oral advanced therapies for chronic
immunological conditions. The robust scientific data remains the key driver for Betrecep,
which is further fuelled by strong medical and marketing activities focused on experience
sharing among HCPs and disease awareness for public.
Enbrel is the first Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) inhibitor launched across the globe
for chronic indications like Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Ankylosing Spondylitis
(AS), Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), Psoriasis (PsO) and
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). This product is available with pre-filled pen and
syringe options and is applied subcutaneously among pediatric and adult patients. To date,
Enbrel has impacted the lives of over 6 million patients worldwide. Enbrel is backed by
more than 500 clinical trials and more than 7,000 publications.
3. Internal Medicine:
Internal Medicine business of your Company has paved its way in Indian market by
constantly increasing the patient and Healthcare Professionals (HCPs') reach by
adopting transformative models in its way of operations. This is achieved through
increased share of voice by various means like improving the customer visits by the field
colleagues, presence in various congresses and symposia, virtual calling to the HCPs etc.
HCP connect, better distribution capabilities to ensure ease of access, new product
introductions to bridge the patient needs are pivotal in this journey. Internal Medicine
is building the business on 3 main pillars viz:
1. Productivity enhancement through in-clinic excellence, tailored engagements,
improved segmentation, targeting and expansion.
2. Enhanced customer reach through omnichannel promotion, identified government &
private medical college HCPs especially the young HCPs through an independent team and
virtual connect with 10,000 HCPs through tele-calling, 3. Improved distribution and reach
to ensure ease of access through various channel expansion initiatives.
Eliquis: Eliquis (Apixaban) a Factor Xa Inhibitor Anticoagulant is a leading
oral Anticoagulant, predominantly prescribed by cardiologists, neurologists,
physicians/pulmonologists, vascular surgeons, and orthopedic surgeons for the management
of Atrial Fibrillation and Venous
Thromboembolism. After Loss of Exclusivity, many generic brands have increased
competition in the market. Your Company strategized to increase the unit sales and number
of patients benefited with Eliquis significantly, through expanded reach to additional ~
5,000 HCPs. Eliquis continued amongst maintain leadership Non-Vit-K Oral Anticoagulant.
Eliquis has been in the forefront in promoting first-in-class anti-coagulation science
through various public awareness initiatives on Atrial Fibrillation on Radio and
electronic media. Educational programs including case based panel discussions, symposia of
International and National Expert on updates in AF/VTE management reaching to more
than 6,000 HCPs, certification programs aimed at capability building of ~1,000 Consulting
physicians.
Neuroscience and Cardiovascular:
Your Company's Neuroscience portfolio represents multiple brands that are leaders
in their respective segments. Pacitane (Trihexyphenidyl) leads in its therapeutic category
with 67% market share. Ativan (Lorazepam) is one of the largest anxiolytic brands in the
Benzodiazepine Tranquilizer market with 6% market share, despite facing out of stock
situations. Minipress XL continues to hold the leadership position in the uncontrolled
hypertension market with 44% market share and 12% growth. Your Company continued to focus
on increasing awareness, bridging the knowledge gap among physicians and continued its
engagement initiatives in uncontrolled hypertension through medico-marketing initiatives
with physicians, nephrologists, and cardiologists.
Respiratory Portfolio: Your Company has presence in the Respiratory portfolio with
Cough and Oral Corticosteroids therapies. The flagship brand Corex
Dx has maintained its leadership position in the dry cough space with 15% market share.
With greater focus on increasing prescriptions and building prescribers, your Company has
strengthened the HCP connect and improved engagement by driving the science behind cough
management and importance of rational cough combinations.
Women's Healthcare:
Your Company's portfolio in Women's Healthcare spans across important life-stages of
women like pregnancy, menopause, and contraception with established iconic brands across
the continuum of care. Women's Healthcare Portfolio is market leader in the represented
market with 10% market share.
Big brands- Folvite, Ovral L faced significant cut of 11% and 26% respectively due to
revision in the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM').
Despite the value erosion due to price cut, Folvite and Ovral L continue to maintain
their leadership position in the represented market. Other brand under Women's Healthcare
that was impacted due to NLEM revision was Pitocin (18.6%). Omnichannel approach, focus on
HCP engagement and patient awareness helped drive robust prescription growth, with Folvite
being amongst the top 5 brands and
Autrin being amongst the top 100 brands prescribed by gynaecologists. The Key focus in
Nutritional portfolio continues to strengthen Folvite and Autrin and build the Line
extension brands by special focus on HCP segmentation and distinct brand positioning basis
HCP preference in various indications.
With the belief to support to-be-mothers in their pregnancy journey, besides the
nutritional support, your Company launched a Pregnancy care and support digital journey
for to-be-mothers. This journey is available only through HCPs and provides pill plus
support like diet consultation, 24X7 non-clinical query resolution, psychological
counselling, yoga etc. This, along with the various HCP and consumer engagement programs
are well accepted by eminent gynaecologists.
In the Oral Contraceptive space, your Company continues to lead the represented market
share with Ovral L being the market leader. Ovral L expands its indication base with DCGI
approval for 3 more indications in the space of menstrual disorders. The key strategic
imperatives remain increasing brand belief amongst Gynaecologists and GPs (with gyne
practice). Your Company continues its endeavor to increase awareness around Menopause and
its management amongst young gynaecologists through partnership with Indian Menopause
Society. This will be supported through consumer awareness initiatives in-clinic and
through social media platforms to drive women in menopausal age to seek support from
gynaecologists.
Your Company's commitment towards SCIENCE
FIRST is reinforced in the current times by leveraging partnerships with renowned
scientific associations such as Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of
India (FOGSI'), Indian Menopause Society (IMS') and Indian Society of
Perinatology and Reproductive Biology (ISOPARB') to upgrade scientific knowledge of
gynaecologists through innovative digital channels to spread awareness price about women's
health and its management from Menarche to Menopause.
Gastric Portfolio
Your Company has presence in gastroenterology segment with brands like Neksium, Gelusil
and Mucaine. The focus of our Esomeprazole Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) - Neksium, has been
on delivering excellence by driving strong in-clinic focus on key specialties including
gastroenterologists and orthopedicians. Your Company launched ENDOSURGRE workshop, a
unique and credible educational program for skill upgradation of the gastroenterologists
on the most complex surgical cases and keeping them abreast of the latest advance
gastroenterologists and technologies in surgery in the
Endoscopy domain in coordination with International Associations like American Society
of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). Your Company has intensified focus on nursing homes
and small hospitals that have helped sustain momentum. Your Company has launched a
Hospital Staff Education and Learning Program (HOPE) a module-based content platform
designed especially for the nursing community and paramedic staff. Neksium D, launched in
2019, continues to build growth for the brand and has been positioned to drive
differentiation by targeting patients with symptoms related to Refractory GERD. Your
company also extended the portfolio offering in Gastroenterology by launching a brand of
Tofacitinib in Ulcerative Colitis.
Leading brands such as Gelusil and Mucaine have further entrenched your Company's
dominance in the Antacids segment. Gelusil, a brand trusted for over 5 decades and
consumed by millions of Indians, embodies a legacy that has been built over time.
Unmatched Quality and unshakeable trust are in the DNA of Gelusil that has strengthened
its position in the Antacids market with dominance in the high potential states leading to
a 20% market share.
Mucaine has maintained the leadership position in Antacids market with market share of
15% in liquid antacid market of Rs1000 Crores. Mucaine is driven by robust prescription
across specialties with the prescriber base of 51,000. Identifying the needs of market,
for patients consuming Mucaine for a longer duration, a line extension of Mucaine
400 ml was launched for better treatment adherence. STEP, an online certification
program endorsed by Association of Physicians India (API') was rolled out to 4,000
HCPs to enhance the treatment outcomes and improve advocacy at primary care physicians.
At the digital front GERD talks podcast series was introduced for Physicians &
Gynecologists with a reach of ~8,000 HCPs.
Pain and inflammation Portfolio:
Your Company has a pronounced presence in the pain and inflammation category with
brands Dolonex
(Piroxicam) and Wysolone (Prednisolone). Both are legacy brands with more than 40 years
of presence in India and are leaders in their respective categories, having impacted lives
of more than 10 million patients in the country. Your Company has continued its engagement
activities in osteoarthritis (OA) and L B P capital (LBP) through medico-marketing
initiatives like Back in Action' campaign with Orthopedicians and physicians on
treating OA and LBP. The portfolio expanded in October 2023, with the introduction of
Etorizer (Etoricoxib) for the treatment of osteoarthritis and Etorizer P for acute
exacerbation of chronic pain.
Vitamins Portfolio:
Your Company has established a strong presence in Vitamin market through its iconic
brand Becosules which has legacy over 50+ years. Becosules continues to be the No. 1
selling vitamin brand in India. Your Company is committed to provide new line extensions
of Becosules with currently total 7 SKUs in the market in order to fulfil the consumer
needs. Becosules continues to remain dedicated to its mission of empowering health and
wellness. Becosules has established itself as a household name, synonymous with quality
and efficacy. The consumer-centric solutions have enabled Becosules to touch the lives of
millions, empowering individuals to lead healthier and more vibrant lives. The brand is
committed to continuous innovation, to develop new SKUs that meet the evolving need of
consumers. Our strategic focus includes expanding our reach through digital channels,
enhancing consumer engagements, and fostering partnerships to drive sustainable growth and
impact.
Your Company has recently launched a line extension, Becosules+ Syrup to help patients
especially children to keep away from infections and build strong immunity.
4. Hospitals:
Your Company's Hospital Business Unit (HBU) focuses on institutions including
hospitals and nursing homes through advanced anti-infectives portfolio. Pfizer's
breakthrough innovation, Zavicefta (ceftazidime-avibactam) continued its spectacular
growth driven by high conviction of HCPs, with increased demand across a greater number of
hospitals. This novel drug is indicated for the management of hospital acquired pneumonia
including ventilator-associated pneumonia (HAP/
VAP), complicated intra-abdominal infection (cIAI), complicated urinary infection
(cUTI) and Bacteremia associated or suspected to be associated with any of the three
indications in adults. Zavicefta has created significant positive patient impact in India
and earned accolades in the Pfizer Global arena. With Zavicefta, the team has strengthened
the focus across multiple stakeholders in the value chain such as clinicians and
microbiologists to drive diagnosis and early and appropriate usage of Zavicefta in
eligible patients.
Pfizer's efforts will continue to focus on driving right drug usage and innovative
healthcare solutions for hospitals by partnering with Subject Matter Experts.
Pfizer has pioneered initiatives to boost Diagnostic Stewardship in India by
facilitating knowledge dissemination at large & mid-tier hospitals and supported
access to diagnosis.
The category also has a strong presence across the anti-bacterial continuum, ranging
from beta-lactam/ beta-lactamase-inhibitor (BL/BLI) products to high-end anti-bacterial
products. Amongst these,
Pfizer has successfully reintroduced Magnex 1 gm in the market to treat mild to
moderate Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) & Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTI).
Meronem, an injectable antibiotic indicated for the treatment of serious bacterial
infections which are difficult to treat due to resistant pathogens also posted very strong
volume growth and significantly expanded in new Hospitals with strengthened HCP equity.
Meronem posted very strong unit growth of 71% for MAT March 2024.
Hospitals Business unit continues to build a strong ecosystem of Antimicrobial
Stewardship (AMS) from awareness to implementation to ensure appropriate usage of
anti-infectives in hospital setups. KNOW
Antimicrobial Resistance (KNOW AMR) is an initiative aimed at slowing down
Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR'), through awareness and education. The campaign also
featured #PledgewithPfizer initiative, that urged Healthcare professionals and
public to take a pledge in the fight against AMR.
This year, our efforts were recognized globally, and we won the prestigious GUINNESS
WORLD
RECORDTM for the largest online video album comprising 11,251 oaths
recited by healthcare professions and public. This phenomenal feat saw doctors, nurses,
pharmacists, paramedic staff, other healthcare workers, and the public commit their
support to act responsibly and do their bit in the war against AMR. This initiative
encouraged expert doctors to share their insights to slow down AMR, which was featured
across online channels and many hospitals nationwide. The campaign on various digital
channels has reached several million doctors, nurses, paramedic staff and public across
the country.
By focusing on informing the public and raising awareness about the fatal effects of
AMR among all stakeholders, Pfizer is persevering to empower and strengthen people and
help them battle this looming problem.
MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS
Your Company's manufacturing operations are carried out in full compliance with local
laws and in line with the stringent Global Pfizer Quality, Compliance and Environment
Health & Safety standards.
Your Company has successfully sustained Integrated
Manufacturing Excellence Program (IMEx) throughout the Goa site i.e. Pfizer's internal
production system and is recognized for their achievement of delivering value with all
colleagues working. Your Company is also honoured with the 2023 Pfizer Global Service
Performance Award for the extraordinary efforts in making the site an amazing workplace
for all.
Your Company focusses strongly on environmental sustainability through implementation
of green energy initiatives and waste minimization projects.
People
Over the past year, your Company has sustained a Colleague Resource Group (CRG) at Goa
to improve diversity and inclusion initiatives across the site. The CRG conducted several
programs and initiatives to train and motivate employees to foster a DEI (Diversity,
Equity & Inclusion) culture. Your Company also continued the quarterly Compliance
Champions awards program to strengthen & sustain the compliance and data integrity
culture at the site. IMEx way of working is being followed to deliver best-in-class
performance.
Your Company imparted Six Sigma Yellow, Six Sigma Green, Lean Yellow & Lean Green
and other Operational
Excellence trainings to improve the competency and capability of site colleagues. The
site colleagues have also implemented various Six Sigma and Lean projects.
Environment Sustainability
Your Company follows stringent global safety, environmental health and occupational
hygiene standards. We have created an excellent model for environmental sustainability
with focus on conservation of resources, green energy and waste minimization.
Your Company has continued its journey towards Green Energy and completed Solar Project
Phase VI, VII & VIII of 100 KWp, 800 KWp & 200 KWp respectively, during the year.
Site's total solar power generation during the period was 2060 MWH which is nearly 3.12
times higher compared to 662 MWH generated in 2022-23. Goa Plant's effort towards Green
Energy has ensured that ~38% of the total energy demand for the Manufacturing operation at
our Goa plant come from the site's renewable source. The total carbon footprint of your
Company has reduced by 2,589 Tonnes since initiation of the solar project in 2019.
Your Company has continued its drive towards energy conservation through efficiency
introduction of high packing lines and machineries. The Plant has also reduced their
Greenhouse gases from 3,394 tons (2022-23) to 2,449 tons (2023-24) which is an
27.84% reduction. The carbon footprint per million tablets has also reduced from 0.98T to
0.72T. These initiatives have resulted in significant reduction in energy utilization.
MEDICAL AFFAIRS
During the year under review, your Company's Medical Affairs Team organized more than
13 meetings with healthcare professionals (HCPs) representing various specialities. These
sessions aimed to enhance awareness about vaccination and strengthen advocacy. over 1200
participants were engaged in knowledge-sharing and interactive discussions. Through a
combination of physical, virtual and hybrid interactions, the team successfully engaged
with nearly 2000 doctors. These discussions aimed to construct a robust scientific message
emphasizing the significance of pneumococcal vaccination across various age groups and
risk factors.
The team drove medical communication emphasising on pneumococcal vaccination for
high-risk children and importance of counselling regarding vaccination and also conducted
seminars for budding pediatricians on vaccinology. The medical team also supported patient
awareness activities regarding protection from pneumococcal diseases and completion of
vaccination schedule.
Medical Affairs supported creation of Adult Vaccination Centres of excellence (CoE) and
drove implementation of departmental protocols for adult vaccination in 12 hospitals
across 5 cities with discussions ongoing in further 22 hospitals. Medical Affairs also
took lead to collaborate with microbiologists focusing on advancing the diagnosis and
detection of pneumococcus by connecting and empowering the regional microbiology centers
in the country.
The Medical Affairs team conducted focused medical education programs across the
portfolios for therapy areas such as cardiology and gynecology with C-CON, Gynecology
Connexion and EKG educating ~1000 HCPs. The team continued our partnerships with medical
institutes with Gujarat University of Transplantation Sciences in collaboration with Asian
Institute of Gastroenterology educating 172 HCPs & a national webinar with DFSI that
reached to 1549 HCPs. The Novel Oral Anticoagulants (NOAC') handbook was published
in association with API & launched at APICON 2024 with distribution of nearly 1500
copies on a reactive basis. The partnership with Indian Menopause Society (IMS')
helped to reach more than 1100+ HCPs to educate them on the effective management of
menopause and its associated symptoms with midlife matters project. Medical Affairs took a
lead in patient centric initiatives such as creation of the BLOOM booklet and its regional
translations in 10 Indian regional languages in association with IMS and ISOPARB, for
awareness on menarche to menopause, which reached more than 7000 patients. The team also
conducted HCP education activities in government medical institutes in the space of
research methodology with the flagship project m-LEAP reaching 900+ emerging opinion
leaders.
In the gastroenterology and rheumatology portfolio, we focused on updating
Rheumatologists and gastroenterologists through cross talk forums educating more than 500
clinicians on immunological disorders and role of advanced therapies like tofacitinib in
management of IBD (inflammatory bowel diseases) and (AS) Ankylosing spondylitis.
Your Company's Medical Affairs Team continued to monitor the trends in resistance and
the susceptibility of antibiotics in the country through our surveillance program,
Antimicrobial Testing Leadership and Surveillance (ATLAS). The Medical Affairs team
periodically publishes the data in various national and international forums and journals.
The Team was also able to support 2 national associations active in the area of
infection management, the Indian Society of critical care medicine and Clinical Infectious
Diseases Society (CIDS),India, as they focused on various educational initiatives. The
team supported the introduction of 3 month certificate specialists on infection
management, that was attended by 100 HCPS with ISCCM. With CIDS, we were able to support
the introduction of fungal helpline, a platform, where HCPs can learn about serious fungal
infection management and seek guidance and advice from the ID experts of CIDS.
The Medical Affairs Team partnered with multinational diagnostic company, Biomerieux,
to raise awareness about rapid diagnostic tests, essential in the management of serious
bacterial infections, and were able to host 4 webinars that educated > 3000 HCPs.
PEOPLE ExPERIENCE (Px)
Your Company's People Experience Team amidst a challenging year of 2023-24 had a sharp
focus on creating a differentiated Colleague Experience to facilitate individual and
organizational growth. The PX team led multiple initiatives to drive simplicity, create a
culture of inclusion and psychologically safe work environments, introduced several new
benefits plans to bolster our employee value proposition and service the aspirations and
requirements of an evolving workforce.
Across its remit of talent hiring, talent management and engagement, the PX team is
leveraging data & analytics to enable businesses to make informed decisions and shape
best-in-class talent practices.
Colleague Engagement: In 2023, your Company reported favorable scores in its annual
Pulse Survey (Employee
Satisfaction Survey), which is designed to measure and track key areas of the overall
colleague experience and equip leaders with actionable insights. On an average, 89% of
employees surveyed reported feeling engaged and proud to be part of Pfizer, while 90% of
the employees demonstrated their alignment to Pfizer's Purpose Blueprint & Values and
rated the organization highly on integrity and ethics. The Pulse Survey indicated the need
to focus on simplification across our Ways of Working and create more opportunities for
colleague recognition. Your Company has embarked on several initiatives to address both
areas of focus.
Bespoke Talent Management initiatives: At Pfizer, our approach to Talent Management
is steeped in the principles of collective ownership of talent, offering diverse
experiences through talent trading, providing constructive feedback to top talent, and
fostering their growth in alignment with their aspirations. Guided by data-driven
insights, which serve as our north star in establishing best-in-class talent practices,
your Company launched the Visier' platform, with an aim to empower managers to make
informed and data backed people decisions.
Through Structured Talent Review discussions, our Leadership Team is committed to
collective ownership of enterprise talent as well as strengthening the succession pipeline
by emphasizing the accelerated development of our Fast and Far' Talent. Through
tailor-made development plans and by proactively providing new, unconventional career
paths, our endeavour is to build more enterprise leadership talent.
We continue to emphasize a culture where careers are viewed as a series of enriching
experiences, aligning with our philosophy of non-linear career progression. In 2023-24, we
saw the career lattice come alive, with 200+ talent moves in 2023-24, a nearly 2x increase
over 2021-22. Endorsing our zigzag growth philosophy, we saw several non-linear
career moves including shifts from the Marketing to the Health Solutions Partner Team and
Business Operations to Business Analytics.
Our Growth Architecture framework enables sales colleagues to navigate through varied
career paths in Pfizer, strengthening the availability of talent for future leadership
roles. It has enabled the organization to nimbly find the right talent, groom them through
continuous inputs and to be able to proactively create a pipeline for critical roles. In
addition, it has been supplemented with a learning architecture to provide differential
experiences to this high-potential talent pool through structured learning interventions
and key projects.
Breakthrough Benefits
At Pfizer we believe that the collective passion, customer, and patient-centricity of
our people enables us to stay steadfast to our purpose of bringing Breakthroughs that
change patients' lives. To ensure our employees are thriving and able to live Pfizer's
purpose every day, your Company offers a strong and differentiated Benefits Proposition
that has helped us attract, engage, and retain strong talent.
In early 2023, your Company introduced a slew of Breakthrough Benefits designed
to help employees fully cherish life's important moments, balance work and personal
responsibilities, promote well-being and ultimately, thrive in the workplace. These
breakthrough benefits include the 12-week paternity policy for new fathers, enhanced
Hospitalization (sum insured and C-section limit) & Life Insurance policy, and new
Outpatient Department (OPD) coverage under our medical benefits amongst others.
Taking cognisance that employees thrive best when they have adequate personal time and
fully savour life's moments, our new leave policy is designed to ensure employees can
optimise their time off and avail their leaves with flexibility and ease. Some notable
changes include excluding intervening weekly offs or public holidays from Privileged
Leaves so employees can choose a wider range of leaves spread across the year, an
additional Saturday off for our field employees, the introduction of Caregiver Leave to
take care of ailing family members or dependents and allowing colleagues to choose
elective leaves in line with their cultural and religious preferences. In 2023, our
Paternity Leave policy saw 59 new fathers avail the 6-week time-off to cherish the time
with their newborns and share responsibilities at home.
Keeping in mind the increasing cost of reliable childcare and further support our
working mothers, we increased the reimbursable amount permitted under our cr?che
allowance. Under our medical benefits, we onboarded a new digital health partner, Visit,
to offer a wide suite of medical services including teleconsultations, diagnostics, dental
and vision services, that can be availed at the click of a button. New resources were also
introduced under our Healthy Pfizer Living initiatives fitness app Exos.
These new benefits were introduced under a strong campaign titled InWINcible
You, which aims at showcasing how your Company is enabling every individual to win in the
workplace through adequate personal support. The benefits campaign is an extension of the
2024 vision and strategy introduced by the Leadership Team, InWINcible
Growing Together.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)
In 2023-24, your Company continued to prioritize building a diverse and inclusive
workplace, with gender diversity as the cornerstone of our DEI efforts. Thanks to
several important measures taken by the Leadership Teams to build gender-diverse teams,
our diversity metrics have seen sharp gains over the years. This is reflected by
representation of more than 25% women leaders on our Board of Directors and Leadership
Team.
In 2023, across our talent hiring and talent growth verticals, we took intentional
strides to lift the diversity profile both, field and non-field roles. We hired 55% women
while expanding our Adult Vaccination Team. At the Head Office, our efforts at hiring more
in Teams with equal gender ratios, with a few teams with diversity ratios as high as 60%.
Our Women's Resource Group Abha also made significant progress through the year.
Established in 2023 as a community for the empowerment, recognition, and celebration of
women across their life-stages, Abha strives to address critical issues on women's health,
growth
& development and steer important conversations on diversity, equity, and
inclusion. Today, we have 400+ women colleagues in Pfizer who are a part of this network,
and this is only increasing. Throughout the year, Abha hosted several important
initiatives for all colleagues including workshops on Emotional Resilience, Financial
Literacy, Healthy Lifestyle and Fine Balance.
In 2024, the focus of Abha will be on mentoring exceptional women colleagues. The
Pay-it-Forward
Mentoring Program inaugurated on the eve of this year's International Women's Day is a
step in this direction. In its first mentoring as a growth enabler to our Customer Facing
women colleagues, who will be mentored by a batch of mentees inducted under the program.
The program aims at enabling a synergistic relationship between the mentor and mentees to
enable women colleague's growth and build strong connections within the broader
organization.
lifestyleand LEGAL
Your Company's Legal Division is committed to providing pragmatic solutions in line
with the legal and commercial interests of the Company. Being a specialized department,
the Legal Division works proactively with the business to drive compliant and innovative
business ideas, strategies and programs right from inception and thereby promotes
Pfizer's commitment to Patients First. Your Company's Legal Lead also serves as the
Risk Counsellor Lead (RCL) and acts as the primary risk management interface for all
functions in India. In this capacity, the RCL provides comprehensive risk management
advice and counsel to the business and enabling functions, with strong support partnership
and in consultation with in-market Compliance and other risk management functions, as
appropriate.
The Legal Division continues to spearhead solutions with the business, especially
pertaining to digital initiatives to enhance reach to physicians and increase awareness
among patients by leveraging technology. It plays a leadership role in the following
areas: our organization by hiring more women in
1. Compliance with laws and regulations: Ensures that the Company complies with laws
relating to haveresulted employment, contracts, intellectual property privacy and other
areas.
2. Legal advice and representation: The legal division provides legal advice and
representation to the Company and its employees. This includes providing advice on legal
issues related to the Company's operations, negotiating and drafting contracts, and
representing the organization in legal disputes.
3. Risk management: The Legal Division plays a key role in risk management for the
organization. By identifying potential legal risks and developing strategies to mitigate
those risks the Legal Division helps the Company to deal with legal issues.
It plays a leadership role in the following areas:
Spearheading proactive litigation against infringers and protecting the IP rights and
entitlement of the Company.
Constant support for business development projects across divisions and enabling
functions.
Mitigation of risks associated with the Company's business operations and intellectual
property rights.
Defending the Company against litigation as well as pro-actively initiating litigation,
wherever necessary, to ensure that the Company is insulated from operational risk.
BIOPHARMA OPERATIONS GROUP
Your Company's Biopharma Operations Group encompass a wide range of activities within a
business to support sales, marketing and medical. This function elevates business
performance by bringing forward and seamlessly integrating their expertise, solutions and
capabilities into the commercial model. The Commercial
Operations Group works in close partnership with the business to ensure delivery of key
services with enhanced The over goal is to drive speed, proficiency& savings and
contribute to the overall success of the business.
Over the last year Biopharma Operations Group has delivered over 5,000 services which
includes Content asset management, samples management, Incentive design & payout,
field deployments, pre call planning, management of CRM tool, etc. Currently 64% of our
services in India are delivered between 1-5 days, our Goal is to reach 75% by end of 2024.
The Key Objectives of Biopharma Operations Group are:
Enable seamless integration of modern marketing capabilities into the commercial model
Drive efficient and effective execution of sales and marketing operations.
Defineand enable best-in-class sales and marketing at scale
Support adoption of new technology, platforms, and processes
Providing oversight, optimization, and governance
Activating new agency model to deliver better, more personalized creative
To operationalize and optimize Critical Marketing and Customer Fulfillment Center (CFC)
enablers
While driving such large-scale operations, this group brings diverse capabilities &
leadership to encompass both technical and execution rigor. It is this collective
advantage of the group that has led to strong cross functional partnerships; thereby
helping Pfizer to deliver breakthroughs that change patients' lives.
SUPPLY CHAIN
At Pfizer, the objective of Supply Chain is to deliver breakthroughs that change
patients' lives through interventions that enhance our services across the value chain.
In our efforts to stay ahead of the curve, we have created a framework to capture the
voice of our customers and use the inputs to enhance their experience with Pfizer.
Predictive analytics to anticipate customer purchase patterns, disease profiles, value
added services etc. have been a few of the new initiatives. We have also created a
calendar for educating our first paying customers on best practices for safety and
handling of temperature-controlled products. All these interventions thereby form pillars
in our journey to drive Customer Delight.
Your Company's Supply Chain has taken significant in keeping sustainability at the
forefront while delivering essential medicines. Pfizer Supply Chain conducts regular
training sessions for value chain partners outlining the formulation of Environmental,
Social, and Governance (ESG) and Sustainability blueprint, setting a clear direction for
global and India-specific initiatives. A crucial step on this front has been shifting from
air to ocean mode of transport for supplies from our global manufacturing sites that
includes marquee Pfizer vaccines. This, in turn, contributes to a significant reduction in
Further, to improve efficiencies and in keeping with evolving customer needs, we have
embarked on digitization and automation journey in the customer service operations.
Automation of sales order creation process and printing of QR codes on secondary packs
providing product details are the initial initiatives successfully launched in this space.
Also, to further strengthen these initiatives, a differentiated logistics network strategy
is in place to widen our reach to customer segments beyond our current footprint.
To summarize, all these efforts have enable your Company to evolve into an agile and
sustainable customer supply chain organization that is constantly and successfully
developing a talent pool to provide supply chain solutions in India.
PFIZER HEALTHCARE ExPERIENCE STUDIO (PHEx)
Your Company's Patient & Healthcare Experience (PHEX) India team is at the
forefront of healthcare innovation, leveraging digital media to transcend traditional
boundaries and usher in a new era of possibilities. Harnessing the power of digital media,
where every click, tap and scroll becomes an opportunity to inspire, educate and empower,
this team embarked on a quest to transform and elevate brand, customer experiences.
This dynamic team has quickly established itself as a driving force for innovative
solutions for your Company.
From facilitating new product launches to enhancing field force productivity and
executing impactful awareness campaigns, the team consistently enables business functions
to achieve their goals.
Reflecting on the past year, notable achievements include the creation of a connected
healthcare ecosystem program to enhance patient and healthcare professional
(HCP) engagement, the successful ideation and execution of a Pneumococcal Disease
awareness campaign, which garnered prestigious industry awards, and the development of a
search engine optimization (SEO)-based strides content strategy and website to amplify
brand presence for Becosule.
Additionally, advancements in the AI and behavior science-based solution for Customer
Facing Colleagues
(CFCs), Smart Sales Buddy', have shown promising results, while the
implementation of an omni-channel customer engagement model has enabled data-driven
decision-making. They have also established outcome-focused partnerships with retail
aggregators and driven emissions. Customer Experience Management (CXM) initiatives.
Together, PHEX India and its business counterparts are driving transformative change in
healthcare, shaping the future one breakthrough at a time.
DIGITAL
The pharmaceutical industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by
digital trends that are revolutionizing various aspects of the industry including Drug
Development, Manufacturing, Healthcare Professional (HCP') engagement, Patient care
and beyond.
This Digital transformation is essential for the industry to keep pace with
technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors and regulatory requirements.
Your Company has made significant enhancing digital engagement with HCPs over the past
year with Websites, WhatsApp based Bots. Your Company implemented various technology-based
solutions to improve patient awareness, such as developing dedicated websites focused on
educating patients about health conditions and treatment options. Additionally, your
Company has created scientific knowledge-sharing platforms tailored for HCPs to stay
updated on the latest research and medical advancements.
Your Company has been diligently focusing on improving colleague productivity by
implementing Generative AI tools. These innovative tools leverage large language model to
produce content which benefit colleagues by enhancing productivity and collaboration.
Company continued to have robust, enhanced Cyber Security controls Globally to protect
Information from external threats.
By prioritizing innovation and aligning digital strategy with overarching business
strategy, Company continues to be at the forefront of digital innovation, driving
transformative solutions that enhance patients' health outcomes, accelerate access to the
medicines and advance groundbreaking therapies for patients.
FINANCE
The Finance Division has been a strong and effective business partner to provide
guidance and leadership while upholding the highest standards for internal controls and
corporate governance. The division has been instrumental in driving performance, managing
risks and opportunities, in rolling out new GTM strategies, change management and leading
various enterprise-wide initiatives.
During the year under review, your Company's Finance team partnered strongly with each
business units to develop and execute various key projects. The Finance team played a key
role in execution of agreement to transfer the unexpired leasehold rights in the Thane
Land
& Building to Zoetis Pharmaceutical Research Private
Limited.
In addition to partnering strongly with business, the
Finance division played a pivotal role in ensuring fiduciary integrity, upholding high
corporate governance standards, developing governance policies, maintaining good investor
relations, institutionalizing effective internal controls and consistently driving strong
business performance and financial prudence.
Internal Control Systems, their adequacy and Compliance:
The Compliance Controls and Risk (CCR) Lead from Risk Management and Compliance
(RM&C) function is progress in responsible for ensuring adequacy and effectiveness of
internal controls through continuous monitoring.
CCR's objective is to give senior management, Risk
Management Committee and the Audit Committee, an independent and reasonable assurance
on the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company's risk management, controls, and
governance processes. Your Company has an internal audit function which is supported by an
independent Chartered Accountancy firm audit reviews.
Your Company had laid down adequate system of internal controls based on risk-based
approach and framework.
The control environment comprises a mix of preventive and detective controls which are
manual, semi-automated and automated in nature. While structuring the system of
Internal Financial Controls, your Company has followed requirements of the Companies
Act, 2013 and is in line with globally accepted risk-based framework as issued by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) of the Treadway Commission. The purpose of
the control system is to ensure
1. Orderly and Efficient conduct of the business operations
2. Compliance with applicable laws, regulations, polices etc.
3. Safeguarding of its assets
4. Accuracy and completeness of the accounting records
Risk Management and & Compliance function an integrated Enterprise Risk Management
(ERM') framework to obtain a holistic view of Company risks across all its business
areas. Our Enterprise Risk Management approach focuses on the identification of key
strategic, business, and operational risks and aims to mitigate these risks effectively.
Keeping in mind our purpose Breakthroughs that change patients' lives', our constant
effort is to ensure patient first' while we identify risks and define risk
mitigation measures. During Risk assessment process, our focus is to include fundamental
principles of risk management, proactive identification, timely risk conversations and
robust implementation of mitigation measures in internal processes.
The CCR conducts periodic risk assessments during the year wherein all the risks to
Company's objectives are assessed, and mitigating plans are recorded in the risk register.
This risk register includes operational, financial, regulatory, legal, business and
compliance risks. During the Risk Assessment exercise, current as well as emerging risks
which may impact your Company's objective achievements are considered and assessed based
on their likelihood and impact. All the key risks along with mitigating plans are
presented and discussed twice a year/ semiannually with the Risk Management Committee and
the Audit Committee
COMPLIANCE AND ETHICS to BUILDING TRUST WITH COMPLIANCE AND ETHICS conduct
Pfizer is committed to do everything to build trust in science and promote accurate
science-based information.
These are key priorities for us, and we are advancing them through our digital channels
and collaboration with healthcare organizations and key stakeholders.
Our Purpose and values guide our ethical decision-making and how we deliver
breakthroughs. Through proactive, business-led risk management, Pfizer prioritizes
integrity, safety, and quality as we advance innovation for patients and seek to improve
global health. Your Company operates ethically and thoughtfully in everything that we do,
driven by our responsibility to change lives for the better.
Your Company has a robust Compliance framework with lightspeed approach. This helps to
identify and mitigate emerging compliance risks by adopting a thoughtful risk-taking and
leadership accountability approach.
During the year under review, the Compliance team introduced various innovative
compliance programs to further enhance a culture of ethics and integrity at the grassroot
level and implemented a proactive, and robust risk and compliance governance framework.
The team enhanced the use of digital technology in developing and implementing strong
control and governance frameworks, which has led to more effective monitoring and helped
dealing with risks at early stages. With the new GTM strategy, we proactively identify
emerging risks and implemented a mitigating framework of controls and governance. The
compliance and business processes, tools and system have been further simplified with the
use of new technology which has also led to better compliance adherence.
Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practice (UCPMP) :
Government issued a notification on March 12th, 2024 mandating all the
associations to ensure their members follow UCPMP which governs the promotional
practices of pharmaceutical products to healthcare professionals
(HCP). Your Company is fully committed to comply with the UCPMP requirements in
true letter and spirit and also leading the conversation in OPPI and within Industry
peers.
Simplification & Culture
With the Vision and Objective set forth by your Company for the future, it is important
to ensure operational efficiency. We recognize that of the policies and processes is
paramount in achieving the operational efficiency. introduced two initiatives under
Project SimpliPfi i.e. a) Triage Risk Approval Forum is set up to provide all
risk functions approvals for business initiatives and innovative programs at one place. A
consolidated guidance is then given by the forum to Initiator which eliminates the time
taken by project owner and b) Policy point A share drive is set up containing all the
Local and global policies at one place. This is of tremendous help for all the colleagues,
specially new joiners, to find policy or guidance on any topic at a simple click.
Your Company has a well-defined policy covering interaction with Healthcare
Professionals and Government officials called My Anti-Corruption Policy &
Procedures' (MAPP). The policy addresses both local legal requirements while also
leveraging the best practices followed in other markets. The right tone from the top
leadership and regular training and awareness also provides frequent reinforcement of
Pfizer's compliance and ethics values. We continue to enhance and update our policies
keeping in mind the evolving environment and emerging risks.
As a way of reinforcing ethics and integrity, your Company has identified around 60
colleagues from various teams as Compliance Champions. They act as the first
point of contact for colleagues when they have policy related questions. These measures
have ensured that your
Company is well placed to drive the spirit of compliance across its stakeholders.
Compliance cultural is an integral part of your Company's value system. Our culture
initiatives like Compliance Day celebrations', Anytime
Compliance Ready' and Compliance messaging during
POA meetings and townhalls' helped inculcate compliance learning with Joy. With 60
Compliance champions on field, the acclaimed framework of the Compliance Champion League
(CCL) has gone a long way in ensuring phenomenal success and scripted an unparalleled
compliance driven culture for Pfizer India.
Office of the Ombuds
Your Company offers Office of the Ombuds' and unlike any other resource
atPfizer,it provides a safe place where any colleague can reach out and have a completely
private, confidential and unbiased discussion regarding any work-related issue, question
or concern. the Ombuds also provides insights, perspectives and points of view that can
help colleagues develop strategies and potential options to resolve workplace concerns or
questions. Office of Ombuds' is available to all colleagues regardless of title and
role. simplification and clarity
CORPORATE AFFAIRS
The Corporate Affairs Division works in the domains this in mind, we of Government
Relations, Public Policy, External Communications, Patient Advocacy and Corporate
Social Responsibility. During the year under review, the division undertook numerous
policy advocacy initiatives; stakeholder engagement outreach; campaigns to build corporate
and therapy area reputation and community and colleague engagement programs.
Your Company undertook direct advocacy with the Government and engaged stakeholders
through industry associations such as Organization of Pharmaceutical
Producers of India (OPPI), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry
(FICCI), US India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and US India Business Council
(USIBC) on matters of priority for the business.
Some of the key issues which we advocated included regulatory modernization for
expediting drug approvals, strengthening the existing Intellectual Property Right
(IPR) regime to incentivize innovation and research, exemption of our
patented/breakthrough drugs from the instructions relating to the Global Tender Enquiry
(GTE) issued by the Government, inclusion of innovative therapies under Government
programs, pricing and other matters which came up from time to time.
Your Company played a pivotal role in driving multiple initiatives with the Government
including the areas mentioned above which covered specific recommendations/representations
on the existing challenges and suggestions based on best practices towards policy scope
and operational efficiency among others. Your Company continued to participate and play an
active role in leading the dialogue with relevant government stakeholders and contributing
recommendations on the above-mentioned policy level issues.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
At Pfizer, we seek to make quality healthcare available to those in need across India.
To achieve this, we draw inspiration from our Purpose Breakthroughs that Change Patients'
Lives. Our flagship CSR programs aim to nurture science and innovation, reduce the threat
of disease, strengthen healthcare capacity, ensure access to
qualitycare,addressimmediatedisasterandhumanitarian of health needs, and enhance Pfizer's
community outreach.
This year, the team continued to identify and work on projects that are aligned to
Pfizer's CSR priorities as listed below:
Promote Indian innovation and Indian intellectual property with a focus on healthcare;
Undertake awareness and access programs in partnership with NGOs, government and
healthcare providers in areas such as women and child health, among others;
Support Government, national and/or state programs and priorities with linkages to
healthcare; and Participate in disaster relief activities. Your Company's flagship CSR
initiatives undertaken during the year under review gained significant momentum leading to
high-impact outcomes.
Pfizer along with NGO partner, Americares India Foundation (AIF) rolled out two major
projects to combat India's AMR challenges.
1. Project Parivartan focusses on addressing the current Infection
Prevention and Control (IPC) challenges in healthcare facilities. In this multi-year
project, your Company is supporting the development of a model for Institutional
Capacity Building' to deliver facility-based IPC and Anti-Microbial Stewardship among 11
small and mid-size hospitals across India. The project has now completed 2 years
reflecting marked positive impact on the IPC & AMS practices across the 11 shortlisted
hospitals.
2. Pfizeralong with an NGO partner, launched an online learning program called OPEN-AMR
for healthcare workers to offer access to quality training on IPC across India. The
project provides AMPS/ IPC module as per the WHO guidelines. The platform is accessible
free of cost with certification in six languages (English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu,
Malayalam, and Marathi). It is implemented by Americares India Foundation (AIF) with
Trained Nursing Association of India (TNAI) as a certificate partner. 22,000 + nurses have
enrolled on to the platform. The program is highly appreciated amongst the nurses adding
to their skills on AMS &
IPC.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)- Pfizer collaboration aims at enhancing
the existing AMR Stewardship Program with a focus on awareness. The project helps address
the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India.
3. The Pfizer-ACF (Tata Trusts) Cancer Care Project has been set up to work
with the high-risk population that requires healthcare attention. Overall, this project
aims to serve as a one-stop, information and support center for patients and families at
Tata
Trusts? key cancer hospitals. Alamelu Charitable Foundation (ACF) was established by
Tata Trusts to support the setup of a comprehensive healthcare network across India. The
program is in the first phase of its operation and includes the following:
Health and wellness kiosks in Ranchi, Diphu, Silchar and Tirupati. The kiosks provide
services such as counselling and interactive sessions on preventing cancer and
lifestyle-related disorders to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCD),
counselling sessions for smoking cessation and prevention, screening for Oral, Cervical
and Breast cancer, general physician examination and basic laboratory investigation
including haemotological, serological and bio- chemical tests, etc.
Community outreach and early detection for NCD, screening of catchment population and
referral to the nearest center. Set-up and operationalization of a patient referral and
tracking platform.
Manage and operate a virtual patient helpdesk, complemented by one on-site patient
navigator in OPD and day care centers in the four locations.
The project has positively impacted lives of over 500,000 beneficiaries and over 3000+
healthcare workers. This project is a breakthrough in providing access and high-quality
consistent care as the primary objective of the program.
4. As a part of the Company's CSR initiative, your
Company has partnered with NGO Doctors for You to set up physical help desks at
14 high burden cancer hospitals across India. 4 of the 14 Aastha help desks have been
launched in this financial year. The aim of the initiative is to improve the treatment
experience for cancer patients throughout their journey by hand holding them and their
caregivers through the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation phases.
200,000 + patients and their caregivers supported through the help desk.
Pfizer's Healthcare Innovation
Pfizer INDovation program is our contribution towards shaping the health-tech space in
India all for better access to quality healthcare.
We, along with esteemed partners such as IIT-D, Niti Ayog, NIPER- Ahmedabad, Social
Alpha, are looking to address the challenges start-ups face after crossing the early-stage
product development so that many of these unique ideas and solutions can take shape as
viable solutions.
As part of this program, we have supported 40 startups in the space of Oncology,
Digital Health, Devices and Diagnostics with incubation and IP filing.
The startups who have been a part of the inaugural edition of this program, have
received upto Rs65 lakhs over 2 years. They have also received mentorship support on
product development, fundraising support, clinical fitment workshops, and have been
introduced to clinical partners and potential customers.
During the year under review Company through Pfizer INDovation program, identified two
promising startups tackling serious health threats
Pragmatech solutions and AI Health Highway.
Cervical Cancer has always been a big concern for women. Pragmatech has developed
Cervicheck , a self-sampling kit for molecular testing of high-risk HPV infection that
enables women to self-collect cervical and vaginal cells by themselves enabling
easier screening for Cervical Cancer.
AI Health Highway:
AI Health Highway's AI Steth is an advanced digital stethoscope that aims to
aid a non-specialist in screening patients for Valvular Heart Disorders. Deployed in 18
Primary Healthcare Centers in
Satara, Maharashtra, as a part of their Chronic noncommunicable diseases screening, AI
Steth was used to screen over 3,850 individuals.
Sharing our INDovation story with India and the world:
We proudly showcased INDovation at the 2nd Health Working Group meeting in Goa and at
Innovation Marketplace, World Health Assembly, Geneva, with the start-ups highlighting
their cutting-edge solutions, in tune with the theme of digital health.
Shortfall in CSR Spend
The CSR funds were earmarked for fivekey projects AMR Parivartan Hospital
Transformation Project in partnership with Americares, Pfizer-Tata Trusts Cancer Care
project, Village Transformation Project (BAIF), Pfizer INDovation and IP Programs and
Cancer helpdesks by Doctors for You.
Given the scale and scope of these projects, the programs could not utilize the full
funds earmarked for the financial year under review for some of these projects. These CSR
projects are long term and continuing projects which would be supported by the Company
during subsequent years. Accordingly, the said CSR funds are being released in a phased
manner according to the progress on the projects.
As per the provisions of the Companies Act, the unspent CSR amount of Rs4.86 Crores in
respect of ongoing projects for the financial year ended March 31, 2024 has been
transferred to Pfizer Limited - Corporate Social Responsibility Unspent Account FY 2023 24
and will be subsequently spent on the Company's ongoing CSR projects within a period of
three years.
A brief outline of the initiatives undertaken during the year and details of CSR
projects undertaken by your Company during the financial year under review are provided in
the Corporate Social Responsibility Report which forms part of this Report and annexed
herewith as Annexure - A.
WHISTLE BLOWER / VIGIL MECHANISM
Your Company has established a Whistle Blower/Vigil Mechanism through which its
Directors, Employees and Stakeholders can report their genuine concerns about unethical
behavior, actual or suspected fraud or violation of the Company's code of conduct or
ethics policy. The said Policy provides for adequate safeguards against victimization and
direct access to higher level supervisors. The e-mail ID for reporting genuine concerns
is: corporate.compliance@pfizer.com?. In appropriate and exceptional cases,
concerns may be raised directly to the Chairman of the Audit Committee at Chairman.
IndiaAuditcom@pfizer.com? . No person has been denied access to the Audit Committee
Chairman. A quarterly report on the whistle blower complaints received and action taken
thereon is placed before the Audit Committee for its review.
PREVENTION OF SExUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and
Redressal) Act, 2013? (the Act') seeks to protect women colleagues against sexual
harassment in their workplace. Your Company has specially designed training modules to
help all colleagues and contingent associates understand what constitutes sexual
harassment in the workplace, how to address it and Pfizer's role in preventing it. Your
Company has
Internal Complaints Committees constituted under the purview of the Act and has ensured
adherence to the Act. The details of complaints filed and disposed of during the Financial
Year under review are as under:
Particulars |
Number of Complaints |
1. Number of Complaint pending as on beginning of FY 2023-24 |
NIL |
2. Number of complaints filed during FY 2023-24 |
1 |
3. Number of complaints disposed of during the FY 2023-24 |
1 |
4. Number of Complaints pending as on end of FY 2023-24 |
NIL |
DIRECTORS
Upon completion of 5 year team as a wholetime Director, Mr. Milind Patil (DIN:
02546815), ceased to be the Executive Director Finance of the Company with effect from
close of business on November 13, 2023. Mr. Patil retired as the Chief Financial Officer
of the Company with effect from November 30, 2023.Mr. Samir Kazi (DIN: 07184083), resigned
as an Executive. Executive Director Legal of the Company with effect from close of
business on September 12, 2023.
Your Directors wish to place on record their appreciation of contributions made by Mr.
Milind Patil and
Mr. Samir Kazi during their tenure as the Executive Director Finance & Chief
Financial Officer and Executive Director Legal respectively, of the Company.
The Board of Directors of the Company at their Meeting held on February 9, 2023,
pursuant to the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee, appointed
Ms. Meenakshi Nevatia (DIN: 08235844) as an Additional
Director and Managing Director of the Company, for a period of 5 (five) years with
effect from April 3, 2023. The said appointment was approved by the shareholders on
May 27, 2023 through postal ballot. Ms. Nevatia being a British citizen, the Company
had sought approval of the Central Government for her appointment as the
Managing Director of the Company, and the same was received during the year under
review.
The Board of Directors of the Company at their
Meeting held on October 28, 2023, pursuant to the recommendation of Nomination
and Remuneration
Committee, appointed Mr. P. Rengan (DIN: 10362899) as an Additional Director of the
Company designated as Executive Director Plant Operations, for a period of 5 (five)
years with effect said appointment was approved by the shareholders on January 6, 2024
through postal ballot.
The Board of Directors of the Company at their Meeting held on January 22, 2024,
pursuant to the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee, appointed
Mr. Amit Agarwal(DIN: 10465938) as an Additional
Director of the Company designated as Executive Director
Finance & Chief Financial Officer, for a period of 5 (five) years with effect from
February 26, 2024 subject to the approval of members.
The Board of Directors of the Company at their Meeting held on February 9, 2024,
pursuant to the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee, reappointed Ms.
Meena Ganesh (DIN: 02546815) as an Independent Director with effect from March 8, 2024 for
a term of 5 (five) years subject to the approval of members. The said appointment of Mr.
Amit Agarwal as Executive Director Finance & Chief Financial Officer, for a period of
5 (five) years with effect from February 26, 2024 re-appointment of Ms. Meena Ganesh as an
Independent
Director with effect from March 8, 2024 for a term of 5 (five) years were approved by
the shareholders on March 30, 2024 through postal ballot.
In accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, Mr. P. Rengan, (DIN:
10362899) retires by rotation at the ensuing Annual General Meeting, and being eligible,
offers himself for re-appointment.
The Board of Directors of the Company at their Meeting held on July 29, 2024, pursuant
to the recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee, appointed
Mr. Lakshmanan Krishnakumar (DIN: 00423616) and Ms. Sonia Singh (DIN: 07108778) as
Independent Directors
(Additional Directors) of the Company for a term of 5 years with effect from July 29,
2024 subject to the approval of the members at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. Mr.
Pradip Shah's second term as an Independent Director would be expiring on November 9,
2024. The Board of Directors of the Company at their Meeting held on July 29,
2024, pursuant to recommendation of Nomination and Remuneration Committee appointed Mr.
Pradip Shah as a Non-Executive Non Independent Director of the Company, liable to retire
by rotation, subject to the approval of the members at the ensuing Annual General Meeting.
All Independent Directors have given the declaration that they meet the criteria of
independence as laid down under Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI
(Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. from October28, 2023.
The Board Performance Evaluation
The Company has devised a Performance Evaluation
Framework and Policy, which sets a mechanism for the evaluation of the Board, Board
Committees and Directors. Performance Evaluation of the Board, Committees and Directors
was carried out through an evaluation mechanism in terms of the aforesaid Performance
Evaluation Framework and Policy.
The performance evaluation of each individual Director, the Board and Committees was
carried out through deliberations. The said performance evaluation was done based on the
parameters stated in the templates designed under the aforesaid framework and after taking
into consideration the guidance note issued by the Securities and Exchange Board of India
(SEBI).
Independent Directors' Meeting
During the year under review, one Meeting of the Independent Directors was held on May
15, 2023, without thepresenceoftheExecutiveDirectors.AtthesaidMeeting, the Independent
Directors carried out performance evaluation of Non-Independent Directors and the Board of
Directors as a whole, performance of Chairman of the Company, the quality, content and
timeliness of flow of information between the Management and the Board, based on the
Performance Evaluation framework of the Company. All the Independent Directors were
present at the aforesaid Meeting.
FAMILIARIZATION PROGRAM FOR INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
Your Company has in place a Familiarization Program for Independent Directors to
provide insights into the Company's business to enable them to contribute significantly to
its success. The Executive Directors and Senior Management make presentations periodically
to familiarize the Independent Directors with the strategic operations and functions of
the Company. Your Company also circulates news and articles related to the industry and
provides specific regulatory updates to the Independent
Directors on a regular basis.
A summary of the major Familiarization Programs carried out during the year for the
Independent Directors is given below:
Particulars of the Programs / Presentations |
Date |
No. of Hours |
1. Pharma Market, Industry Performance and Regulatory changes update. (Duration one
hour each) |
15.05.2023 11.08.2023 28.10.2023 09.02.2024 |
4 care |
2. Interactive session on Pfizer01.02.2024 Inc.'s India Growth story |
1 |
|
3. Presentation on Internal Medicine Business |
11.08.2023 |
1 |
4. Presentationontechnologies for the manufacturing, formulation development and ESG
initiatives. |
09.02.2024 |
0.5 |
5. Presentation on Risk Management Framework and Key Business Risks |
11.08.2023 08.12.2023 |
1.25 |
6. Presentation on Risk Management Framework and Key Business Risks |
11.08.2023 09.02.2024 |
1.25 |
NOMINATION AND REMUNERATION POLICY
The Board has, on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee,
framed a policy for selection and appointment of Directors,
Senior Management, Key Managerial Personnel and their remuneration. The Nomination and
Remuneration
Policy forms part of this Report annexed herewith as
Annexure - B.
MEETINGS OF THE BOARD
The details of the meetings of the Board and Committees are provided in the Corporate
Governance Report which forms part of this Report and annexed herewith as
Annexure - G.
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Your Directors make the following statements in terms of Section 134(3)(c) of the
Companies Act, 2013: that in the preparation of the annual financial statements for the
year ended March 31, 2024 the applicable accounting standards have been followed along
with proper explanation relating to material departures, if any; that such accounting
policies as mentioned in Notes
2 and 3 of the Notes to the Financial Statements have been selected and applied
consistently and judgments and estimates have been made that are reasonable and prudent so
as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company as on the Company
for March31,2024 and of the profit the year ended on that date; sufficienthas been taken
for that properand 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; that the annual financial statements prepared on a going
concern basis; that proper internal financial controls were in place and that the
financial controls were adequate and were operating effectively; and that systems to
ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws were in place and were
adequate and operating effectively.
AUDIT COMMITTEE
The details pertaining to the composition of the Audit Committee are included in the
Corporate Governance
Report, which forms part of this report.
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
The details pertaining to the Risk Management Policy are included in the Corporate
Governance Report, which forms part of this Report.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
All Related Party Transactions that were entered in during the financial year were on
an arm's length basis and were in the ordinary course of business. There are no materially
significant related the Company with Promoters, Directors, Key Managerial Personnel or
other designated persons which may have a potential conflict with the interests of the
Company at large. The Company had entered in materially significant related party
transactions with Pfizer Service Company BVBA, Belgium for purchase of raw materials, bulk
drugs and finished goods. The same is within the limit duly approved by the members at the
65th Annual General Meeting.
All Related Party Transactions are placed on a quarterly basis before the Audit
Committee for approval and before the Board for consideration and noting.
The Policy on Related Party Transactions as approved by the Board is uploaded on the
Company's website www. pfizerltd.co.in. The weblink for the Policy is
www.pfizerltd.co.in/files/ revisedrelatedpartytransactionpolicypfizerwebsite.pdf None of
the Directors have any material pecuniary relationships or transactions vis-?-vis the
Company.
Pursuant to Section 134 of the Companies Act, 2013 and Rules made thereunder,
particulars of transactions with related parties as required under Section 188 (1) of the
Companies Act, 2013, in the prescribed Form AOC- 2 forms part of this Report and annexed
herewith as Annexure - C.
PARTICULARS been OF LOANS, GUARANTEES AND INVESTMENTS
The Company has not granted any loans, guarantees, or investments under Section 186 of
the Companies Act, 2013 for the financial year ended March 31, 2024.
DEPOSITS FROM PUBLIC
During the financial year under review, the Company has not accepted any deposits from
the public and as such, no amount on account of principal or interest on deposits from the
public was outstanding as on the date of the
Balance Sheet.
DISCLOSURES OF ORDERS PASSED BY REGULATORS OR COURTS OR TRIBUNAL
No orders have been passed by any Regulator or Court or Tribunal which can have impact
on the going concern status and the Company's operations in future.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The information on conservation of energy, technology absorption and foreign exchange
earnings and outgo stipulated under Section 134(3)(m) of the Companies Act, party
transactions made by 2013 read with Rule 8 of The Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, forms
part of this Report and annexed herewith as
Annexure - D.
A table containing particulars of employees in accordance with the provisions of
Section 197(12) of the Companies Act, 2013, (the Act) read with Rule 5(1) of
the Companies
(Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, forms part of this
Report and annexed herewith as Annexure - E.
The information required pursuant to Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5(2) of
The Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 in
respect of employees of the Company, forms part of this
Report. However, as per the provision of Sections 134 and 136 of the Act, the Report
and Accounts are being sent to the Members and others entitled thereto, excluding the
information on employees? particulars which is available for inspection by the Members
through electronic mode up to the date of the ensuing Annual General Meeting. Any member
interested in obtaining a copy of such statement may write to the Company Secretary at the
Company's Registered Office.
The Company does not have any subsidiary company or associate company or joint venture
company. Hence, neither the Managing Director nor the Whole-time Directors of your Company
received any remuneration or commission during the year, from any such companies
The details of difference between amount of the valuation done at the time of one-time
settlement and the valuation done while taking loan from the Banks or Financial
Institutions along with the reasons thereof -
Not Applicable.
The details of application made or any proceeding pending under the Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (31 of 2016) during the year along with their status as at the end
of the financial year-Not Applicable.
TRANSFER TO RESERVES
During the year, no amount was transferred to the general reserves.
MATERIAL CHANGES AFFECTING THE COMPANY
There have been no material changes and commitments affecting the financial position of
the Company between the end of the Financial Year and date of this report.
AUDITORS
The Auditors, M/s. B S R & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (Firm Registration No.
101248W/W-100022), were appointed as Statutory Auditors to hold office for a term of 5
(five) years from conclusion of the 71st Annual General Meeting till the
conclusion of the 76th Annual General Meeting.
Accordingly, M/s. B S R & Co. LLP will continue to hold office till the conclusion
of the 76th Annual General Meeting of the Company. M/s. B S R & Co. LLP
have confirmed their eligibility and that they are not disqualified to hold the office of
Statutory Auditor.
The Auditor's Report for the financial year ended March 31, 2024 does not contain any
qualification, reservation or adverse remark.
COST AUDITORS
Pursuant to Section 148 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Companies (Cost
Records and Audit) Rules, 2014, as amended from time to time, the cost audit records
maintained by the Company is required to be audited.
The Board of Directors had, on the recommendation of the Audit Committee, appointed
M/s. M/s. RA & Co., to audit the cost accounts of the Company for the financial year
2023-24 on a remuneration of Rs14,70,000/- (Rupees Fourteen Lakhs Seventy Thousand only).
However, the said Cost Auditors have tendered their resignation on account of
ineligibility to continue as Cost Auditors of the Company consequent to inheritance of
Company's shares by Mr. Rasesh Chokshi, one of the Partners of the firm.
The Board of Directors had, on the recommendation of the Audit Committee, appointed
M/s. Kishore Bhatia &
Associates, to audit the cost accounts of the Company for the financial year 2023-24 on
a remuneration of Rs14,70,000/- (Rupees Fourteen Lakhs Seventy Thousand only) to
fill the casual vacancy caused by the resignation of M/s. R.A. Co.
The Board of Directors, at its meeting held on May 17, 2024, had, on the recommendation
of the Audit Committee, appointed M/s. Kishore Bhatia & Associates, to audit the cost
accounts of the Company for the financial year 2024-
25 on a remuneration of Rs14,70,000/-(Rupees Fourteen
Lakhs Seventy Thousand only)
As required under the Companies Act, 2013, the remuneration payable to the Cost Auditor
is required to be placed before the Members in a general meeting for their
ratification. Accordingly, a Resolution seeking Member's ratification for the Messrs.
Kishore Bhatia & Associates & Co., Cost Auditors for the financial year ended
March 31, 2024 and for the financial year ending March 31, 2025 are included at Item No. 7
and Item No. 8 respectively of the Notice convening the Annual General Meeting.
Your Company is required to maintain the cost records as specified by the Central
Government under subsection (1) of Section 148 of the Companies Act, 2013. Your Company
has accordingly maintained the same and has filed the Cost Audit Report for Formulations
and Compliance Report for the financial year ended March 31, 2023 on October 17, 2023,
which is within the stipulated timeline prescribed under the applicable regulations.
The Cost Audit Report for Formulations for the financial year ended March 31, 2024 is
filedby due to be October 26, 2024.
M/s. Kishore Bhatia & Associates, have confirmed their eligibility to be the Cost
Auditors for the financial years
2023-24 and 2024-25 and have been appointed to conduct Cost Audit of the Company's
records for the financial year ended March 31, 2024 and for the financial year ending
March 31, 2025. The remuneration payable to
M/s/ Kishore Bhatia & Associates is subject to ratification by the shareholders.
SECRETARIAL AUDIT
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Companies Act, 2013 and The Companies
(Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, the Company has
appointed M/s. Saraf & Associates, a firm of Company Secretaries in Practice to
undertake the
Secretarial Audit of the Company. The Secretarial Audit
Report forms part of this Report and annexed herewith as Annexure - F. The
Secretarial Audit Report for the financial year ended March 31, 2024, does not contain any
qualification, reservation or adverse remark.
ANNUAL SECRETARIAL COMPLIANCE REPORT
The Company has undertaken an audit for the financial year 2023-24 for all applicable
compliances as per SEBI Regulations and Circulars/Guidelines issued thereunder. The Annual
Secretarial Compliance Report has been submitted to the stock exchanges within 60 days
from the end of the financial year under review. The Annual Secretarial Compliance Report
is available on the Company's website at www.pfizerltd.co.in
COMPLIANCE WITH SECRETARIAL STANDARDS
Your Directors confirm that the Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of
Companies Secretaries of India, as applicable to the Company and which are mandatory in
nature, have been duly complied with.
ANNUAL RETURN
Pursuant to Section 92(3) read with Section 134(3)(a) of the Companies Act 2013 and
rules made thereunder, the Annual Return of the Company as on March 31, 2024 in
Form MGT-7 is available on the Company's website at www.pfizerltd.co.in
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING
A Report on Corporate Governance along with a Certificate from B S R & Co. with the
conditions of Corporate Governance as stipulated under Regulation 34(3) of SEBI (Listing
Obligations and
Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 forms part of this Report and annexed
herewith as Annexure - G.
A Business Responsibility & Sustainability Report as stipulated under Regulation
34(2) of SEBI (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations,
2015, describing the initiatives taken by your Company from an environmental, social
and governance perspective, forms part of this Report and annexed herewith as Annexure-H.
CAUTIONARY NOTE
Certain statements in respect to Management Discussion and Analysis may be forward
looking and are stated as required by the applicable laws and regulations. The future
performance of the Company may be affected by many factors, which could be different from
what the
Directors envisage in terms of future performance and outlook.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Your Directors would like to place on record their sincere appreciation for the support
and assistance extended by the Company's suppliers and business associates. Your Directors
are thankful to the esteemed shareholders for their continued support and the confidence
reposed in the Company and its Management.
Your Directors wish to place on record their appreciation for the support and guidance
provided by its Parent Company, Pfizer Inc. USA.
For and on behalf of Board of Directors regarding compliance |
Pradip Shah |
|
Chairman |
Mumbai, July 29, 2024 |
DIN: 00066242 |