To, The Members,
Lancer Container Lines Limited
It is with great pleasure that we present to you the 13th Annual Report of Lancer
Container Lines Limited, marking the conclusion of the Financial Year ended March 31,
2024. This report encapsulates the Company's operational performance and financial
accounts since our successful Initial Public Offering (IPO). The PDF Version is also
available on the Company's website: https://lancerline.com/investor-relations#tp1-2
1. Financial Statements and Results
The Company's financial performance for the year under review along with previous
year's figures is given here under:
(Amount in Rs. Lakh.)
|
Standalone |
Consolidated |
Particulars |
Current Year 2023-24 |
Previous Year 2022-23 |
Current Year 2023-24 |
Previous Year 2022-23 |
Revenue from Operations |
44,633.92 |
68,170.03 |
63,340.99 |
83,717.29 |
Other Income |
1,313.47 |
1,108.57 |
1,343.44 |
837.84 |
Total income |
45,947.40 |
69,278.60 |
64,684.43 |
84,555.13 |
Expenses |
42,433.05 |
63,866.27 |
57,719.02 |
77,674.71 |
Profit Before Tax |
3,514.35 |
5,412.33 |
6,965.41 |
6,880.41 |
Net Profit After Tax |
2,513.40 |
3,998.89 |
5,836.62 |
5,373.70 |
Earning Per Share (Diluted) |
1.21 |
1.99 |
2.70 |
2.61 |
Earnings per Share (Basic) |
1.14 |
1.88 |
2.65 |
2.53 |
# EPS numbers are in actuals.
1.1 Brief description of the Company's working during the year on Standalone basis.
During the year under review, we would like to draw your attention to the financial
performance of our Company. Our Standalone total income for the year amounted to Rs
45,947.40 Lakh, a decrease of 33.67% from Rs 69,278.60 Lakh in the previous year.
Similarly, our Net Profit After Tax (PAT) stood at Rs 2,513.40 Lakh, compared to Rs
3,998.89 Lakh in the previous year, reflecting a deflation of 37.15% The primary factor
contributing to this decline has been the reduction in freight rates, which has
significantly impacted both our revenue and PAT. We are actively working on strategies to
address these issues and aim to enhance our financial performance in the coming periods.
The financial parameters of the Company are as listed under: - Revenues at Rs
44,633.92 Lakh, declined by 34.53% YoY.
EBIDTA Rs.4983.71 Lakh declined by 29.93 % due to higher operating expenses. PAT
at Rs. 2,513.40 Lakh, declined by 37.15 % YoY.
1.2 Brief description of the Company's working during the year on Consolidated basis
We are pleased to present the consolidated financial performance of your Company for
the year under review. Our consolidated total income for the year amounted to Rs.
64,684.43 Lakh, reflecting a decrease from Rs. 84,555.13 Lakh in the previous year. This
represents a deflation of 23.50%, primarily due to a reduction in sales volume attributed
to decreased freight rates. Despite these challenges and the prevailing economic
environment, we are pleased to report that our Net Profit After Tax (PAT) stood at Rs.
5,836.62 Lakh, compared to Rs. 5,373.70 Lakh in the previous year. This signifies a
commendable growth of 8.61%, highlighting our ability to enhance profitability even under
difficult conditions.
The financial parameters of the Company are as listed under: - Revenues at Rs
63,340.99 Lakh, declined by 24.34 % YoY.
EBIDTA Rs. 8810.10 Lakh declined by 1.67% due to higher operating expenses. PAT
at Rs. 5,836.61 Lakh, up 8.61 % YoY.
2. Transfer to Reserve
The Net Profit after tax of Rs. 5,836.62 Lakh for the FY 23-24 have been retained in
the Profit and Loss Account.
3. Management's Discussion and Analysis Report
Management's Discussion and Analysis Report for the year under review, as stipulated
under Regulation 34(2) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations
and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, is presented in a separate section,
forming part of the Annual Report.
4. Business Expansions & New Projects
Business Expansions and new projects detailed information is covered in the report on
Management Discussion and Analysis.
5. Change in Capital Structure/ Material Changes
5.1 Conversion of 230 Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds ("FCCB") into equity
shares
Consequent to the aforesaid conversion of 230 Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds
("FCCB") into Equity Shares of Rs. 5/- each, the paid-up equity capital of the
Company has increased. For such converted FCCB into equity shares we have availed listing
approval from the stock exchange; the details of such approval is mentioned below:
Sr. No |
Date on which FCCB's Converted |
No. of FCCCB's Converted into Equity Shares |
Listing Approval by Stock Exchange |
1. |
12th July, 2023 |
25 |
21st July, 2023 |
2. |
26th September, 2023 |
90 |
05th October, 2023. |
3. |
29th September, 2023 |
50 |
10th October, 2023 |
4. |
06th December, 2023 |
35 |
12th December, 2023 |
5. |
13th December, 2023 |
30 |
19th December, 2023 |
|
Total |
230 |
|
5.2. Increase in Authorized Share Capital of the Company and consequent Alteration in
Capital Clause of the Memorandum of Association of the Company
The Old Authorized Capital of the Company stood at Rs. 50,00,00,000/- (Rupees Fifty
Crores only), with a Paid-up Share Capital of Rs. 31,57,21,200 (Rupees Thirty One Crores
Fifty Seven Lakhs Twenty One Thousand Two Hundred only). The Company has decided to
augment its financial flexibility by proposing an increase in its Authorized Capital to
Rs. 1,50,00,00,000/- (Rupees One Hundred Fifty Crores only). The decision to increase the
Authorized Share Capital was ratified by the Members of the Company during the Annual
General Meeting held on 11th September 2023. This resolution was crucial to enable the
issuance of Bonus shares and to accommodate future growth and financial requirements of
the Company.
Consequent upon the approval, Clause V (a) of the Memorandum of Association of the
Company has been duly altered to reflect the revised Authorized Share Capital. This
alteration ensures that the Company's governing documents accurately represent its
financial capabilities and comply with regulatory requirements.
The increase in Authorized Share Capital allows the Company greater flexibility in
financing its operations expansions. It enhances the Company's ability to respond to
market opportunities, fund strategic initiatives, and reward shareholders through Bonus
share issuances without needing to amend the Memorandum of Association repeatedly.
5. 3 Change in Capital structure due to Issue of Bonus at 2:1
With the objective of rewarding existing equity shareholders, enhancing the liquidity
of Equity Shares, and expanding the retail shareholders' base, the Board of Directors of
the Company convened a meeting on August 10, 2023. During this meeting, they considered
and approved the issuance of bonus shares by capitalizing a portion of Free Reserves
and/or securities premium, as per the Audited Financial Statements for the Financial Year
ended March 31, 2023.
The Board's decision to issue bonus shares was aimed at utilizing Rs. 63,14,42,400/-
from Free Reserves and/ or securities premium to increase the Issued, Subscribed, and
Paid-up Share Capital of the Company to Rs. 94,71,63,600/-. This capitalization would
enable the issuance of fully paid bonus shares to existing shareholders, thereby
distributing additional equity without requiring cash outflow.
The Members of the Company ratified this decision on September 11, 2023, during the
Annual General Meeting The approval was in accordance with the Articles of Association of
the Company, which governs the capitalization of Free Reserves and/or securities premium
for the issuance of bonus shares.
The fully-paid Bonus Shares were allotted to the Members whose names appear in the List
of Beneficial Owners as received from the National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL)
and Central Depository Services (India) Limited (CDSL) in respect of shares held in
dematerialized form, as on the Record Date, in the ratio of (2) Two Equity Shares of Rs.
5/- each for every (1) One fully paid Equity Share of Rs. 5/- each held as on a Record
date decided for this purpose.
Following the issuance of bonus shares, the Paid-Up Capital of the Company stands at
Rs. 94,71,63,600. This capital is represented by 18,94,32,720 shares, each having a face
value of Rs. 5.
The paid-up capital of the Company as on March 31, 2024 stands at Rs.1,14,27,33,600
comprising of 22,85,46,720 equity shares of Rs. 5/- each.
5.4 Acquisition
The Company has executed Share Subscription and Shareholders' Agreement on 20.11.2023
for acquisition of 60% Equity Share Capital of Transco Logistix Worldwide Private Limited,
subject to certain conditions precedent. The object of the said acquisition is to add
vertical business line of the Company in the field of Logistics Industry.
5. 5 Unlisted Material Subsidiary
As per the Audited financials received from the auditor of Lancia Shipping LLC for
FY 23-24, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lancer Container Lines Limited which is Dubai based
has been announced as a unlisted material subsidiary on 12th August 2024 Board Meeting and
for which the board has duly adopted the policy for determining material subsidiary
(Enclosed Annexure-B) and Mr. Suresh Babu Sankara, Independent Director of Lancer
Container Lines Limited has been appointed as manager in Lancia Shipping LLC as per
Federal Decree Law no (32) of 2021 on Commercial Companies, United Arab Emirates in
accordance to Regulation 24(1) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015
6. Disclosures under the Companies Act, 2013 and Listing Regulations
6.1 Extract of Annual Return:
Pursuant to Section 92(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Rule 12(1) of the Companies
(Management and Administration) Rules, 2014, Annual Return in MGT 7 for the FY 2023-24 can
be accessed at our website www. lancerline.com under the tab of Investor Relations >
Annual Report
6.2 Committees:
6.2.1 Audit Committee
The Audit Committee comprises Mr. Suresh Babu Sankara as Chairman, Mr. Narayanan M.
Variyam, Mr. Praful Jain and Ms. Ameeta Ramesh as the members. The Committee is assigned
role, powers and responsibilities as provided under Regulation 18 of the SEBI (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 Agreement and Section 177 of
the Companies Act, 2013. There is no such incidence where Board has not accepted the
recommendation of the Audit Committee during the year under review. During the year under
review, 4 (Four) Audit Committee meetings were held i.e. May 25, 2023, August 10, 2023,
November 8, 2023 and February 12, 2024.
6.2.2 Stakeholders' Relationship Committee
The Stakeholders' Relationship Committee comprises Mr. Suresh Babu Sankara as Chairman,
Mr. Narayanan M. Variyam and Ms. Ameeta Ramesh as the members. The Committee is
constituted to supervise and ensure Share Transfer related matters and to look after the
Stakeholder's Grievances. During the year under review, 5 (Five) meetings of Stakeholders
Relationship Committee were held i.e. July 12, 2023, September 26, 2023, September 29,
2023, December 06, 2023, and December 13, 2023.
6.2.3 Nomination and Remuneration Committee
The Nomination and Remuneration Committee comprises Mr. Suresh Babu Sankara as
Chairman, Mr. Narayanan M Variyam and Ms. Ameeta Ramesh as the members. The Committee is
formed for the purpose of recommending the Nomination and Remuneration and evaluation of
the Directors' performance. During the year under review, 4 (Four) meetings of Nomination
and Remuneration Committee were held on April 24, 2023, May 25, 2023, June 26, 2023 and
August 10, 2023.
6.2.4 Corporate Social Responsibility Committee
The Corporate Social Responsibility Committee comprises of Abdul Khalik Chataiwala as
Chairman, Praful Jain, Narayanan Moolanghat Variyam and Suresh Babu Sankara as members.
As mandated under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 the Company was required to
spend towards CSR activities in the FY 2023-24 an amount of Rs. 68,57,507/- The details of
the expenditure are mentioned is CSR report annexed to the report. During the year under
review, 1 (One) meeting of Corporate Social Responsibility Committee was held on February
12, 2024.
6.2.5 Independent Directors Meeting
As required under Clause VII (1) of Schedule 4 to the Companies Act 2013, a meeting of
the Independent Directors without the attendance of Non-Independent Directors and the
members of the management was held on February 12, 2024.
6.3 Board Meetings:
The Board of Directors met 14 times during the year as follows: -
Sl. No. |
Date of Meeting |
Board Strength |
No. of Directors Present |
1 |
24.04.2023 |
6 |
4 |
2 |
25.05.2023 |
6 |
6 |
3 |
31.05.2023 |
6 |
4 |
4 |
26.06.2023 |
6 |
4 |
5 |
12.07.2023 |
6 |
4 |
6 |
10.08.2023 |
6 |
5 |
7 |
25.09.2023 |
6 |
3 |
8 |
26.09.2023 |
6 |
4 |
9 |
29.09.2023 |
6 |
4 |
10 |
08.11.2023 |
6 |
5 |
11 |
06.12.2023 |
6 |
3 |
12 |
07.12.2023 |
6 |
3 |
13 |
13.12.2023 |
6 |
3 |
14 |
12.02.2024 |
6 |
5 |
6.4 Details of Directors and Key Managerial Personnel
The Board of Directors & Key Managerial Personnel as on 31st March, 2024 comprised
of the following :-
Sr. No. |
Name of Directors & Key Managerial Personnel |
DIN/PAN |
Category cum designation |
No. of shares held as on March 31, 2024 |
1 |
Mr. Abdul Khalik Chataiwala |
01942246 |
Chairman & Managing Director |
7,67,76,036 |
2 |
Mr. Suresh Babu Sankara |
02154784 |
Non-Executive - Independent Director |
600 |
3 |
Ms. Ameeta Ramesh |
03368136 |
Non-Executive - Independent Director |
Nil |
4 |
Mr. Narayanan Moolanghat Variyam |
08109682 |
Non-Executive - Independent Director |
Nil |
5 |
Mr. Amol Mohan Shirke |
08681663 |
Whole-Time Director |
Nil |
6 |
Mr. Praful Jain |
08000808 |
Whole-Time Director |
Nil |
8 |
Ms. Ranjana Sandeep Shinde (Resigned from the position of CFO w.e.f. 1st
August 2024) |
AIGPG1277P |
Chief Financial Officer |
2,774 |
9 |
Ms. Miti Tailong |
AJGPT2650L |
Company Secretary and Compliance Officer |
Nil |
10 |
Ms. Shruthi Rajiv Nair |
BFEPP2549M |
Chief Executive Officer |
2,073 |
Note:- Changes in Directors & Key Managerial Personnel upto the date of this
report.
Mr. Mahendra Gupta Resigned as a Company Secretary and Compliance Officer of the
Company w.e.f. April 24, 2023 and in his place, Ms. Miti Tailong was appointed as a
Company Secretary and Compliance Officer of the Company w.e.f. 24th April 2023.
Mr. Narayanan Moolanghat Variyam, whose term as Independent Director Non-Executive
expired on 14th April 2023, has been reappointed for a second term of five years. This
decision was formalized during the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held on 10th July
2023, where Mr. Narayanan Moolanghat Variyam was duly regularized to continue his role as
an Independent Director of the Company
The Company has re-appointed Mr. Abdul Khalik Chataiwala (DIN: 01942246) as a Managing
Director of the with effect from 24th June, 2023 for 2 consecutive years upto 23rd June
2025.
Ms. Shruthi Rajiv Nair has been appointed as the CEO of our Company, effective from
26th June, 2023. This appointment follows the vacancy created by the resignation of Mr.
Narayanan Kutty from the position of CEO in March 2023.
Mr. Manoj Sharma has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer (Interim) of
our Company, effective 01st August, 2024 till the time new Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
is appointed by the Board. This appointment follows the vacancy created by the resignation
of Ms. Ranjana Sandeep Shinde from the position of CFO w.e.f. 01st August, 2024
6.5 Related Party Transactions:
All related party transactions that were entered into during FY 2023-24 were on an
arm's length basis and were in the ordinary course of business and disclosed in the
financial Statements. There were no materially significant related party transactions made
by the Company with Promoters, Directors, KMPs or Body Corporate(s), which had a potential
conflict with the interest of the Company at large. Accordingly, the disclosure of related
party transactions as required under the provisions of Section 134(3)(h) of the Act in
Form AOC-2 is not applicable, Annexure-2 enclosed. Also, the Directors draw attention of
the members to notes to Financial Statements which sets out related party disclosures. All
Related Party transaction are uploaded on Company's website and same has been intimated to
Stock exchange for period ended March 31, 2024 and the link for the same is below: Company
Website: RPT Policy Link for Reference, mentioned below-
https://www.lancerline.com/uploadsinvestor/08434e8bae6db4a08456d349171e243e.pdf RPT PDF
file Link till 31st March 2024, mentioned below- As on 30th September 2023
https://www.lancerline.com/uploads/investor/371880449bd052cda56053537d004fa4.pdfAs on 31st
March 2024 https://lancerline.com/uploads/investor/371880449bd052cda56053537d004fa4.pdf As
on 31st March 2024
https://lancerline.com/uploads/investor/fe7d1ddf2a885f5c5aaa6cb94b993b18.pdf Bombay
Stock Exchange Website link mentioned below:
https://www.bseindia.com/stock-share-price/lancer-container-lines-ltd/lancer/539841/qtrid/121/related-party-transactions-new/Mar-2024/
6.6 Policy on Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
There was no case filed during the year, under the Sexual Harassment of Women at
workplace (Prevention, Prohibition & Redressal) Act, 2013. Further the Company ensures
that there is a healthy and safe atmosphere for every women employee at the workplace and
made the necessary policies for safe and secure environment for women employees. Further
your Company has complied with constitution of Internal Complaint Committee.
6.7 Corporate Governance
The Company has complied with the corporate governance requirements under the Companies
Act, 2013 and the Listing Regulations. A separate section on corporate governance, along
with a certificate from the statutory auditors confirming compliance is annexed and forms
part of the Annual Report.
6.8 Adequacy of Internal Financial Controls:
The Company has adequate internal financial controls in place with reference to
financial statements. These are continually reviewed by the Company to strengthen the same
wherever required. The internal control systems are supplemented by internal audit carried
out by Internal Auditor of the Company "M/s. Ganesh Natarajan & Associates,
Chartered Accountants bearing Firm Registration Number 141940W" an independent firm
and periodical review by the Management. The Audit Committee of the Board addresses issues
raised by both, the Internal Auditors and the Statutory Auditors.
6.9 Risk Management/Risk Management Policy
The Risk Management Policy with reference to Section 134 (3) (n) and Section 177 (4)
(vii) of the Companies Act, 2013, the guidelines prescribed for risk management committee
is not applicable to the Company but company has voluntarily adopted this policy on 12th
August 2024, which is approved by the Board Enclosed Annexure B. Nevertheless, the Company
does assess the various risks faced by it in its various areas of operations and mitigates
them from time to time.
6.10 Prevention from Insider Trading
The Board has adopted a Code of Prevention of Insider Trading based on the SEBI
(Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulation, 2015. The same has been placed on the website
of the Company https://www.lancerline.com/investor-relations#tp1-7 . All the Directors,
senior Management employees and other employees who have access to the Unpublished Price
Sensitive Information of the Company are governed by this Code. During the year Under
Report, there has been compliance with the said code of conduct for prevention of Insider
Trading.
6.11 Structure Digital Database Compliance (Pursuant to Securities and Exchange Board
of India (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015)
For the purpose of comply with the PIT regulation & In the interest of general
public, fair trading in securities markets and to prohibit insider trading in corporates
and other organizations, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has enacted SEBI
(Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015,(hereafter referred to as "PIT
regulations") which sets clear rules and procedures for dealing in securities by the
Promoters, Directors, Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) and other Designated Persons those
who have access to Unpublished Price Sensitive Information(UPSI information which is not
published, but which may affect the share price when it gets published) in an
Organisation, We are aware of the compliance requirement of Structured Digital Database
(SDD) pursuant to provisions of Regulation 3(5) and 3(6) of Securities and Exchange Board
of India (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015 (PIT Regulations) and certify
that) :
S.No. |
Compliance Requirement |
Yes/No |
Observation/Remark |
1 |
The Company has a Structured Digital Database in place |
Yes |
The Company has its structured Digital Database |
2 |
Control exists as to who can access the SDD |
Yes |
The absolute control exists as the user name & Password is captured by the system |
3 |
All the UPSI disseminated in every quarter for FY 23-24 have been captured in the
Database |
Yes |
All the UPSI disseminated in every quarter for FY 23-24 have been captured in the
Database |
4 |
The system has captured nature of UPSI along with date and time |
Yes |
We have captured the nature of UPSI along with date and time |
5 |
The database has been maintained internally and an audit trail is maintained |
Yes |
The database has been maintained internally on audit trail exists |
6 |
The database is non-tamperable and has the capability to maintain the records for 8
years. |
Yes |
The database is non-temperable |
7. Managing the Risks of Fraud, Corruption and Unethical Business Practices
7.1 Vigil Mechanism/Whistle-Blower Policy
Your Company believes in promoting a fair, transparent, ethical and professional work
environment. The Board of Directors of the Company pursuant to the provisions of Section
177 of the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)
Regulations, 2015, has framed "Vigil Mechanism" for Directors and employees of
the Company for reporting the genuine concerns or grievances or cases of actual or
suspected, fraud or violation of the Company's code of conduct and ethics policy. The
Vigil Mechanism Policy has been uploaded on the website of the Company at
www.lancerline.com under https://lancerline.com/uploads/
investor/683b5d66339902b17675e26bb3d23cb7.pdf
7.2 Code of Conduct
The Company has laid down a robust Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, which is based
on the principles of ethics, integrity and transparency. More details about the Code is
given in the Corporate Governance Report.
8 Board of the Directors & Key Managerial Personnel:
8.1 Retirement by Rotation
In accordance with the provisions of Companies Act 2013 and Articles of Association of
the Company, Mr. Amol Mohan Shirke (DIN: 08681663), Whole time Executive Director of the
Company is liable to retire by rotation at the ensuring Annual General Meeting of the
Company and being eligible, have offered himself for re-appointment. The Board recommends
their re-appointment.
More details about the directors are either given in the Corporate Governance Report or
in the Notice of the ensuring Annual General Meeting being sent to the shareholders along
with the Annual report.
8.2 Declaration of Independent Directors
The Independent Directors have submitted the Declaration of Independence, stating that
they continue to fulfil the criteria of independence as required pursuant to section 149
of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulations 16 of the Listing Regulations. This section
requires companies to have at least one-third of the total number of Directors as
Independent Director and the Company complies with this requirement. There has been no
change in the circumstances affecting their status as Independent Directors of the
Company. The profile of the Independent Directors forms part of the Corporate Governance
Report in the Board's opinion, the Independent Directors are persons of high repute,
integrity and possess the relevant expertise and experience in their respective fields.
8.3 Board Evaluation:
In compliance with the provisions of Companies Act, 2013 and listing compliances, the
Board carried out an annual evaluation of its own performance and individual Directors. It
also evaluated the performance of its committees. The evaluation inter alia covered
different aspects viz. composition of the Board and its Committees, qualifications,
performance, inter-personal skills, submissions done by the Director in varied disciplines
related to the Company's business.
8.4 Remuneration policy and criteria for selection of candidates for appointment
as Directors, key managerial personnel and senior leadership positions:
The Company has in place a policy for remuneration of Directors, Key Managerial
Personnel and Employees of senior leadership Position as well as well-defined criteria for
the selection of candidates for appointment to the said positions which has been approved
by the Board. The Policy broadly lays down the guiding principles, philosophy and the
basis for payment of remuneration to the executive and non-executive Directors (by way of
sitting fees), Key Managerial Personnel. The criteria for selection of candidates for the
above positions cover the various factors and attributes which are considered by the
Nomination & Remuneration Committee and the Board of Directors while making a
selection of the candidates. The above policy along with the criteria for selection is
available at the website of the Company at
https://www.lancerline.com/investor-relations#tp1-7 .
8.5 Internal Financial Controls
The key internal financial controls have been documented, automated wherever possible
and embedded in the respective business processes. Assurance to the Board on the
effectiveness of internal financial controls is obtained through 3 Lines of Defence which
include:
a) Management reviews and self-assessment;
b) Continuous controls monitoring by functional experts; and
c) Independent design and operational testing by the Group Internal Audit function.
The Company believes that these systems provide reasonable assurance that the Company's
internal financial controls are adequate and are operating effectively as intended.
9 Auditors & Auditors' Report 9.1 Statutory Auditor
M/ s. Praneti Yadav & Co, Chartered Accountants, having Firm Registration No.
137534W, was appointed as the Statutory Auditor of the Company to hold office from the
conclusion of 11th Annual General Meeting held on 30th September 2022 till the conclusion
of the 16th Annual General Meeting and at a remuneration as may be mutually agreed to,
between the Board of Directors and M/ s. Praneti Yadav & Co, plus applicable taxes,
out-of-pocket expenses, travelling and other expenses.
The Auditors have confirmed that they are not disqualified from continuing as the
Auditors of the Company.
Auditors Reports and Board's Comments thereon
M/ s. Praneti Yadav & Co, Chartered Accountants, having Firm Registration No.
137534W, Chartered Accountants is the Statutory Auditor for the year under review. In the
recent audit for FY 23-24, there has been a qualification or adverse remarks highlighted
by our auditors. We take these observations seriously and are actively working to provide
the necessary context and transparency on the issues raised. Our management team is
currently reviewing the specifics of the audit findings to ensure a comprehensive
understanding. This highlighted qualification is mentioned below :-
Auditors comment:- "The Group's investment in Transco Logistix Worldwide
Pvt Ltd', an associate Company acquired during the year has not been accounted for by
equity method, is carried at Rs. 50 lakhs on the consolidated balance sheet as at March
31, 2024, and Lancer Container Lines Limited's share of Transco Logistix Worldwide
Pvt Ltd's' net income is not included in Lancer Container Lines Limited's income for the
year ended March 31, 2024. We were unable to obtain sufficient and appropriate audit
evidence about the carrying amount of Lancer Container
Lines Limited's investment in Transco Logistix Worldwide Pvt Ltd' as at March 31,
2024 and Lancer Container Lines Limited's share of net income of Transco Logistix
Worldwide Pvt Ltd' because we were not provided the financial information and the relevant
documents of acquisition of shares in the said associate Company. Consequently, we were
unable to determine whether any adjustments to these amounts were necessary"
Management / Board comment :- "Management would like to inform you about an important
update regarding Transco Logistics. The allotment made by Transco Logistics is slated for
revision in the current Financial Year 2024-25. The Company is actively engaged in
rectifying the filing associated with this process".
9.2 A) Secretarial Auditor
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Act and the Companies (Appointment and
Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, read with regulation 24A of SEBI LODR
regulations 2015 as amended from time to time M/s. Geeta Canabar & Associates (M No.
8702), Company Secretaries in practice, have been appointed to undertake the Secretarial
Audit of the Company.
B) Secretarial Audit Reports and Comments Thereon
There are no qualifications or adverse remarks in the Secretarial Auditors' Report,
which require any clarification/ explanation from board of directors or Company's
management. The Report of the Secretarial Auditor is annexed to the Board's Report as
Annexure I.
As required under SEBI LODR Regulations 2015, a compliance certificate from Practicing
Company Secretary regarding compliance of conditions of Corporate Governance is annexed
herewith, (Annexure II).
9.3 Cost Auditor & Cost Records
The Company is not required to appoint Cost Auditor and maintain Cost Records, as it
does not fall within the purview of Section 148 of the Companies Act, 2013 and rules made
thereunder and hence it is not required to conduct Cost Audit and maintain Cost Records.
9.4 Internal Auditor
The Company has appointed "M/s. Ganesh Natarajan & Associates, Chartered
Accountants bearing FRN 141940W"as the Internal Auditors to carry out the Internal
Audit of various operational areas of the Company.
9.5 Reporting of Fraud
The Auditors of the Company have not reported any fraud as specified under section
143(12) of the Companies Act, 2013.
10 Director Responsibility Statement
The Directors' Responsibility Statement referred to in clause 134(3)(c) of the
Companies Act, 2013, states that
(a) in the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicable accounting standards had
been followed along with proper explanation relating to material departures;
(b) the Directors had selected such accounting policies and applied them consistently
and made judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as to give a true and
fair view of the state of affairs of the Company at the end of the financial year and of
the profit and loss of theompany for that period; C
(c) the Directors had taken proper and sufficient care for the maintenance of adequate
accounting records in accordance with the provisions of Companies Act 2013, for
safeguarding the assets of the Company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other
irregularities;
(d) the Directors had prepared the annual accounts on a going concern basis; and
(e) With respect to section 134(3) (ca) there were no frauds reported by auditors under
sub-section (12) of section 143 other than those which are reportable to the Central
Government.
(f) the Directors have laid down internal financial controls to be followed by the
Company and that such internal financial controls are adequate and were operating
effectively.
(g) the Directors had devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provisions
of all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating effectively.
11 Compliance with Secretarial Standards on Board and Annual General Meetings
The Company has complied with the Secretarial Standards issued by the Institute of
Company secretaries of India on Board Meetings and Annual General Meetings.
12 Details of significant and material orders passed by the Regulators or Courts
or Tribunals impacting the going concern status and Company's operations in future.
There are no material orders passed by the Regulators or Courts or Tribunals impacting
the going concern status and Company's operations in future. We however bring to the
attention of the members, matters which are in the nature of disputes & their
associated claims. For all the below stated matters the Company has or is in the process
of refuting the incorrect and invalid claims. Ref :- Annexure -1
Annexure-1
Sr. No |
Name of the Parties |
Court |
Advocate |
Subject/ Allegation |
Remark |
1. |
Banaras Glasses Pvt. Ltd. Versus M/S Lancer Container Lines Pvt Ltd |
72 - Addl Civil Judge SD Court No 42, Lucknow |
Advocate Jaiswal |
R.S. 335/2018 Case filed by the shipper because Port of destination code wrongly filed
in IGM ICD Chakeri instead of ICD JRY. The claim is of INR 27,41652/ |
Next date of hearing is 28/08/2024. W/S not yet filed. |
2. |
Rahul Goyal (Swan International) Versus M/S Lancer Container Line |
District and Sessions Judge, South-east, Saket |
Advocate Umesh |
CS. (Comm) 511/2019Cargo wet leakage in rooftop. Order passed against us and court
directed to pay INR 6,06320/- |
Deposited security deposit next date of hearing is 02.09.2024. |
3. |
Lancer Container Lines Versus M/s. Bharath Agro foods and others |
Before the Honorable District Legal Services Authority Thoothukudi |
Advocate Vijayalaxmi |
50/2021 This is recovery of due amount of Rs.5,14,836.10/- from the customer. |
Order passed in our favor but execution can only be file after expiry of 60 days. |
4. |
Lancer Container Lines Versus Salient Container Lines Lancer Container Lines |
3rd Jt. Civil Judge, S.D. Panvel Appellate |
Advocate Biju Advocate |
SPL C.S/27/2023 Recovery suit for the amount of Rs. 17,54,646.82/- Penalty Impose
Under Sec-112(a), 114AA, |
23/10/2024 Next date of hearing. Notice not been |
5. |
Versus Shiv Metal Corporation & Others |
Tribunal of The Customs, Ahmedabad |
Jatin Shah |
117 by customs as the misdeclaration of origin of cargo. The penalty amount is
Rs.480,000/- |
served to the company as the case is transfer to single bench judge. Waiting for
hearing date |
6. |
Lancer Container Lines Versus M/s Apocalypse Steel Pvt. Ltd |
Judicial Magistrate at Burdwan |
Advocate Saurabh |
under Section 156(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure for treating the compliant as
FIR for the offences committed under Sections 378/406/408/409/417/418/420 of the Indian
Penal Code 1860; |
Recovery case not yet initiated. |
13 Change in nature of business, if any
There were no changes in the nature of business of the Company during financial year
ending 31st March, 2024.
14 Details of Application /Any Proceeding Pending under the Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Code 2016
Neither any application was made nor any proceeding pending under the insolvency and
Bankruptcy Code 2016.
15. Details of Difference between amount of the valuation done at the time of one-time
settlement and the valuation done while taking loan from Banks or financial institutions
along with the reasons thereof
Company has paid all the outstanding dues against loan from bank and financial
institutions within the due date in the previous year or any of the past year, as Company
has not done one-time settlement during the year under review hence this is not applicable
in our case for FY 23-24.
16. Particulars of loans, guarantees or investments under Section 186 of Companies Act:
The particulars of loans, guarantees and investments as per Section 186 of the Act by
the Company, have been disclosed in the financial statements. The Company has complied
with the provisions of Section 186 of the Companies Act, 2013.
The Company continues to integrate the latest proficient technology, innovations and
improvement as introduced. The Company has invested significant resources in technological
capabilities and has developed a scalable technology system. Your Company has rolled out
EBMS system to keep a track of end to end delivery of services to the client.
17. Conservation of energy, technology absorption and foreign exchange earnings and
outgo:
a) Conservation of Energy
The Company has always been conscious of the need for conservation of energy and has
been sensitive in making progress towards this initiative. Adequate measures are always
taken to ensure optimum utilization and maximum possible saving of energy at the offices
of the Company.
b) Technology Absorption The Company continues to integrate the latest proficient
technology, innovations and improvement as introduced. The Company has invested
significant resources in technological capabilities and has developed a scalable
technology system. Your Company has rolled out EBMS system to keep a track of end to end
delivery of services to the client.
c) Foreign Exchange Earning and Outgo During the period under review the foreign
exchange earnings and outflow were as follows: Foreign Exchange Earnings: $
73,01,502.04 Foreign Exchange Outflow: $ 23,77,001.32
17. Disclosure required under Rule 5(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration
of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014.
1. Ratio of the remuneration of each Director to the median remuneration of the
employees for the FY 2023-24 and percentage change in the remuneration of each Director in
the FY 2023-24:
Name of the Director |
Designation |
Ratio of remuneration of the Director to the median remuneration |
% increase in Remuneration |
Mr. Abdul Khalik Chataiwala |
Chairman & Managing Director |
30.29 |
(16.27) |
Mr. Praful Jain |
Executive Whole Time Director |
11.77 |
18.04 |
Mr. Amol Mohan Shirke |
Executive Whole Time Director |
9.77 |
15.04 |
2. Percentage increase in the remuneration of Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial
Officer and Company in the FY 2023-24: -
Name |
Designation |
% Increase in Remuneration |
Ms. Ranjana Sandeep Shinde |
Chief Financial Officer |
5.71 |
Ms. Shruthi Rajiv Nair |
Chief Executive Officer |
NA |
Mr. Mahendra Gupta |
Company Secretary and Compliance Officer |
NA |
Ms. Miti Tailong |
Company Secretary and Compliance Officer |
NA |
Note :- Ms. Miti Tailong's appointment as a KMP is w.e.f 24th April 2023 Ms. Shruth
Rajiv Nair's appointment as a KMP is w.e.f. 26th June 2023. Mr. Mahendra Gupta's
resignation is w.e.f 24th April 2024.
3. There were 230 permanent employees on payroll of the Company at the end of the FY
2023-24. As compared to previous year, total salary is decreased by 26.93 % (Including
KMPs) due to changes in the employee composition and the departure of some high-salaried
employees from the organization, KMPs salary increased by 22.52% & other employees
salary decreased by 30.90 % salary excluding KMPs.
4. The median remuneration of employees of the Company increased by 18.36 % in the FY
2023 24 compared to the median in FY 2022-23.
5. The increment given to each individual employee is based on the employee's
potential, experience as also their performance and contribution to the Company's progress
over a period of time and also as per market trend.
6. Average percentile change in the salaries of employees other than managerial
personnel in the 2023-24 increased by 11.74% in comparison to last year and the percentile
change in the managerial remuneration increased by 8.78% in 2023-24.
7. Affirmation: Remuneration paid to Directors, KMP and other employees is as per the
remuneration policy of the Company.
Disclosure required under Rule 5(2) of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of
Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014 is as follows: -
Sr. |
Name |
Designation |
Monthly Remuneration (Amount in Rs) |
Nature of Employment |
Educational Qualification |
Experience |
Date of Joining |
Age of Employee |
Previous Employment |
Equity Shares Held (in%) |
Whether employee is related to the Director |
1 |
Mr. Abdul Khalik Chataiwala |
Chairman & Managing Director |
10,00,000 |
Permanent |
MBA |
34 Years |
07-03-2011 |
59 Years |
NA |
33.59 |
- |
2 |
Mr. Amol Mohan Shirke |
Whole Time Director |
2,44,620 |
Permanent |
B.Com |
20 Years |
13.06.2016 |
40 Years |
Ceyline Logistics |
0.00 |
- |
3 |
Mr. Praful Jain |
Whole Time Director |
3,00,000 |
Permanent |
MBA |
18 Years |
01.11.2019 |
37 Years |
Reliance |
0.00 |
- |
4 |
Mr. Probodh Kumar R. |
Director-Subsidiary |
1,86,768 |
Permanent |
B.Sc. |
31 Years |
16-09-2019 |
54 Years |
Radiant Maritime |
0.00 |
- |
5 |
Mr. Vijayasankar K. Rajha |
Deputy General Manager- Accounts |
1,28,852.8 |
Permanent |
B.Com |
25 Years |
01-10-2018 |
62 Years |
Panlloyd Logistics Pvt. Ltd. |
0.00 |
- |
6 |
Mr. Prabhish Sukumaran |
Director-Subsidiary |
1,22,800 |
Permanent |
MBA(Foreign Trade) |
19 Years |
01-07-2019 |
47 Years |
Maersk |
0.00 |
- |
7 |
Ms. Vimala Wadkar |
Sales Marketing Manager |
1,16,800 |
Permanent |
B.Com Graduate |
26 Years |
21-12-2021 |
49 Years |
Globelink ww india pvt ltd |
0.00 |
- |
8 |
Ms. Shruti More |
Pricing Manager |
1,10,800 |
Permanent |
HSC & B.Com |
13 Years |
11-03-2022 |
37 Years |
Globelink ww india pvt ltd |
0.00 |
- |
9 |
Mr. Sanoj Acharya |
Line Manager |
1,10,000 |
Permanent |
B.SC in computer Science |
14 Years |
18-12-2023 |
39 Years |
ASJS Logistical Services Pvt Ltd. |
0.00 |
- |
10 |
Mr. Sagar Govind Palshetkar |
Senior Manager- Accounts & Finance |
1,02,600 |
Permanent |
B.Com, M.com, CA Appeared for final |
19 Years |
25-09-2023 |
43 Years |
J.M. BAXI & Co |
0.00 |
- |
Note :- Mr. Abdul Khalik Chataiwala had been consistently withdrawing a monthly salary
of 10,00,000 per month up until December 2023. However, due to the emerging Red Sea
crisis, which has significantly impacted shipping companies and created uncertainties
within the shipping industry, Mr. Abdul Khalik Chataiwala decided to halt his salary
withdrawals starting January 2024 till March 2024. Since April 2024, he has been
withdrawing salary of Rs. 3,00,000 per month. This decision was made in light of the
crisis and the associated need for better visibility and financial prudence during these
unpredictable times.
18 Deposits:
During the year, the Company has not accepted any deposits under Chapter V - Acceptance
of Deposits by Companies under the Companies Act, 2013.
19 Subsidiary, Associate and Joint venture:
As per the provisions of Section 129(3) of the Act, a statement containing the salient
features of the financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries and Joint ventures in
Form AOC-1 is attached to the financial statements of the Company (AOC-1 added as an
annexure to the director report).
20 Equal Opportunity Employer:
The Company has always provided a congenial atmosphere for work that is free from
discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment. It has provided equal
opportunities of employment to all without regard to their caste, religion, color, marital
status and sex.
21 Appreciations & Acknowledgements:
The Company wishes to thank its investors, banking community, rating agencies and stock
exchanges for their support. The Company would like to take this opportunity to express
sincere thanks to all its valued customers, vendors, agents and suppliers for their
continued support and patronage. The Directors express their deep sense of appreciation to
all the employees whose outstanding professionalism, commitment and initiative has made
the organization's growth and success possible and continue to drive its progress.
Finally, the Board of Directors wish to express their gratitude to the members for their
trust and support.
And to you, our shareholders, we are deeply grateful for the confidence and faith that
you have always reposed in us.
|
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors |
|
Lancer Container Lines Limited |
|
Sd/- |
|
Abdul Khalik Chataiwala |
Place: Maidenhead, UK |
Chairman & Managing Director |
Date: 12-08-2024 |
(DIN: - 01942246) |