Your Directors have pleasure in presenting the 37th (Thirty Seventh) Annual Report together with the Audited Financial Statements of DiGiSPICE Technologies Limited ('the Company' or 'DiGiSPICE') for FY 2024-25.
Financial Highlights
The consolidated and standalone financial performance of the Company for the financial year ended
31st March, 2025 is summarized below;- . , ,
(Amount In Rs. Lakhs]
|
Particular*
|
Por the Financial Tear ended
31.03.2025
|
Por the Financial Tear ended 31.03.2024
|
|
Consolidated
|
Staudaloa t
|
Consolidated
|
Standalone
|
|
Total revenue from continuing operations
|
44,847.55
|
-
|
43,942.56
|
-
|
|
Other Income
|
2,479.12
|
696.94
|
2,687.91
|
805.15
|
|
Earnings before finance costs, tax, depreciation & amortisation and exceptional items from continuing
operation
|
2143.45
|
(696.87}
|
4,042.77
|
175.28
|
|
Share of (profit)/loss of associates
|
|
|
0.62
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortisation expense
|
588.20
|
120.57
|
712.63
|
107.95
|
|
Finance costs
|
252.58
|
0.94
|
202.06
|
0.62
|
|
Exceptional items
|
3907.61
|
|
(2,874.59)
|
91.94
|
|
Profit/(Loss) before tax from
continuing operations
|
(2,604.94)
|
(818.38)
|
6,002.05
|
(25.23)
|
|
Tax expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
-Current Income Tax
|
520.58
|
|
556.29
|
-
|
|
-Income Tax adjustment for earlier
years
|
37.48
|
-
|
19.95
|
-
|
|
-Deferred tax charge/(credit)
|
90.88
|
-
|
434.86
|
-
|
|
Profit/(Loss) after tax from
continuing operations
|
(3,253.88)
|
(818.38)
|
4,990.95
|
(25.23)
|
|
Profit/(Loss) after tax from
discontinuing operations
|
(634.42)
|
(4543.70)
|
(3,810.79)
|
917.59
|
|
Profit/(Loss) after tax (Continuing operations Discontinuing operations)
|
(3,888.30)
|
(5362.08)
|
1,180.16
|
892.36
|
|
Other comprehensive income for the year
|
67.82
|
(22.32)
|
22.38
|
54.66
|
|
Total comprehensive income for the year
|
(3,820.48)
|
(5,384.40)
|
1,202.54
|
947.02
|
|
Share of Minority in profits / (losses)
|
25.62
|
-
|
28.93
|
-
|
|
Profit / (Loss) for the year attributable to equity shareholders
|
(3,846.10)
|
(5,384.40)
|
1,173.61
|
947.02
|
The Company, at the consolidated level, achieved a total income from continuing operations of Rs. 47,326.67 lakhs during FY 2024-25 as against Rs. 46,630.47 Lakhs for FY 2023-24. The loss after tax at the consolidated level (from Continuing Discontinuing operations) for FY 2024-25 was Rs. 3,888.50 Lakhs as against loss after tax of Rs. 1,180.16 Lakhs in FY 2023-24.
Business, Performance Review and State of the Company Affairs
During FY 2024-25, the business operations of Digital Technology Services got completely discontinued, except for assets held for sale/ disposal. Till 1st quarter of the year, the Company was primarily engaged in Digital Technology Services ('DTS') business, providing Technology solutions and communication platform to domestic/international Telecom Operators and Enterprises.
Strategically, the Company shifted its focus from DTS to financial technology services through its material subsidiary, Spice Money Limited ('SML'). This shift aims to leverage a robust agent network and a comprehensive suite of fintech offerings, including AePS & m-ATM, cash deposit, cosh collection, account opening, lending services, PPI, wollet-based UPI app, bill payment services and other related services. As of March 2025, SML's agent network had grown to over 1.5 million agents across 2.5 lakh villages and 6,475 blocks, facilitating a significant increase in gross transaction value. The company's financial services platform is designed to empower rural India with accessible credit and digital financial solutions.
The status of continued operations and matters related thereto have been provided in detail under the Management Discussion and Analysis Report forming part of this Report.
Scheme of Arrangement
The Company has filed an application with the Stock Exchange(s) for obtaining no-objection under Regulation 37 of the Listing Regulations for the Scheme of Amalgamation by way of Merger between DiGiSpice Technologies Limited ('Transferee Company'), Spice Money Limited, E¬ Arth Travel Solutions Private Limited and Vikasni Fintech Private Limited (Spice Money, E-Arth & Vikasni Fintech are collectively referred as 'Transferor Companies' and their respective
shareholders and creditors, under section 230 to 232 and other applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013. The Stock Exchange observation letter/No-objection letter is still awaited.
Holding Company
As on 31st March, 2025, Spice Connect Private Limited, the holding company, held 72.53% of the issued, subscribed and paid-up share capital of the Company.
Subsidiary Companies, Joint Ventures or Associate Companies
No companies have become or ceased to be subsidiaries and/or associates of the Company during FY 2024-25.
As on 31st March, 2025, the Company had total 18 subsidiaries (6 direct subsidiaries and 12 step down subsidiaries), out of which 14 companies are registered outside India. Additionally, the Company has 2 associate Companies.
During FY 2024-25, Spice VAS Africa Re. Ltd. ('SVA’) has acquired 30% additional stake in DIGISPICE GFIANA LTD. ('DiGiGhana'), an existing subsidiary of SVA Pursuant to above acquisition, DiGiGhana has become a wholly owned subsidiary of SVA and a wholly owned step down subsidiary of the Company.
After closure of FY 2024-25:
* Spice Digital FZCO (a compony incorporated in Dubai and a wholly owned step-down subsidiary compony) wos wound-up and dissolved; and
Ý The Company acquired 8,69,030 Class B shares (100% of class B Shares) in Spice Money Limited.
Highlights of Performance of Subsidiaries, Associates and Joint Ventures
Spice Money Limited, material subsidiary of the Company, achieved a total income of Rs. 46,759.12 Lakhs during FY 2024-25 (FY 2023-24: Rs. 45,977.51 Lakhs). It reported a net profit of Rs.l,482.39 Lakhs during FY 2024-25 (FY 2023-24: net profit of Rs. 1,306.19 Lakhs).
Pursuant to provisions of Section 129(3) of the Act and Indian Accounting Standard - 110, issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and of all the subsidiaries & associate companies has been prepared and presented and forms part of the Annual Report.
The salient features of the performance and financial position of each of the subsidiaries and associate companies are given in Farm AOC-1 annexed to the Consolidated Financial Statements for FY 2024-25 and forms an integral part of the Annual Report. Further, Additional information pursuant to schedule Hi of Companies Act, 2013 i.e. "General instructions for the preparation of consolidated financial statement", has been provided in note 41 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Standalone Financial Statements/Annua! Accounts of each of subsidiary Company have been uploaded on the Company's website at www.digispice.com.
Cash Flow Statement
In conformity with the provisions of the Act and Regulation 34 of the Listing Regulations, the Cash Flow Statement for FY 2024-25 as prepared under the provisions of Indian Accounting Standard - 7 as notified under provisions of Section 133 of the Act is attached as a part of the Financial Statements of the Company.
Share Capital
As on 31st March, 2025, the authorized capital of the Company stood at Rs. 12,405 Lakhs divided into 41,35,00,000 equity shares of Rs. 3/- each.
During FY 2024-25, the Company issued and allotted 14,00,000 equity shares of Rs. 3/- each under DTL ESOP Plan. As on 31st March, 2025, paid- up equity share capital of the Company was Rs. 7008.69 Lakhs (divided into 23,36,23,106 fully paid- up equity shares of Rs. 3/- each).
After the close of FY 2024-25, the Company allotted 23,000 equity shares of Rs. 3/- each under DTL ESOP Plan, till the date of this report. Consequently, the paid-up equity share capital of the Company has increased to Rs. 7009.38 Lakhs (divided into 23,36,46,106 fully paid-up equity shares of Rs. 3/- each) as on date of this report
The shares so allotted rank pari passu with the existing share capital of the Company.
Listing of Securities
The Equity Shares of the Company are presently listed on BSE limited ('BSE') and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited ('NSE'). The Annual Listing Fee for FY 2025-26 has been paid to both the Stock Exchanges.
Transfer of amount to Reserves
The Company has not transferred any amount to the Reserves for FY 2024-25.
Dividend
In view of losses incurred during FY 2024-25, your Directors do not recommend any dividend.
The 'Dividend Distribution Policy' in terms of the Regulation 43A of the Listing Regulations is available on the Company's website at https:// investorrelations.diaispice.com/ articles/8450Q5173_Dividend%2QDistribution%2QPo licy.pdf
Transfer of unclaimed dividend and equity shares to Investor Education and Protection Fund
Pursuant to provisions of Sections 124 and 125 of the Act read with IEPF Rules, dividend which remains unpaid/unclaimed for a period of seven years from the date of its transfer to the unpaid dividend account is liable to be transferred to the IEPF Authority established by the Central Government of India. Further, all shares in respect of which dividend has not been encashed or claimed by the shareholders for seven consecutive years or more from the date of declaration are also liable to be transferred to the IEPF Authority. As on 31st March, 2025, 8,94,520 (Eight Lakh Ninety Four Thousand Five Hundred and Twenty) shares of the Company were lying in demat a/c of IEPF Authority.
The final dividend declared on 27th September, 2019 for the FY 2018-19 will be transferred to IEPF within 30 days from due date, i.e. 1st November 2026.
During FY 2024-25, the Company was not liable to transfer any unclaimed/unpaid dividend/shares to IEPF Authority.
The shareholders wise details of the unpaid and unclaimed dividend lying with the Company are uploaded and available on website of the Company at the link https:// investorrelations.digispice.com/information.php? page-unciaimed-dividend.
The members are requested to check the details of the unclaimed dividend on the website of the Company and claim their dividend at the earliest to avoid the same being transferred to IEPF Authority.
The shareholders whose dividends /shares have been transferred to IEPF Authority during any previous years, may claim such dividends /shares from IEPF Authority by following the procedure as detailed on website of IEPF: https:// www.iepf.gov.in/bin/dms/getdocument? mds=KqCPvkR7lsbvu5mvLKJAdA%253D%253D&tvp e-open.
Ms. Ruchi Mehta, Company Secretary is the nodal officer of the Company pursuant to Rule 7(2A) of the IEPF Rules. Contact details of nodal officer are available on website of the Company at link https.V/investorrelations.diqispice.cam/ information.php?page=nodal-officer.
Statutory Auditors
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 139 of the Act read with rules made thereunder, S.R. Batliboi & Co. LLP (ICAI Firm Registration No. 301003E/ E300005), have been appointed as the Statutory Auditors of the Company to hold office for a period of five consecutive years from the conclusion of the 35th AGM till the conclusion of 40th AGM of the Company to be held in the calendar year 2028.
Auditors' Report
The Auditors' Reports for FY 2024-25 do not contain any qualification, reservation, adverse remark or disclaimer requiring Board to comment thereon in their report.
This Report is enclosed with the Financial Statements forming part of this Annual Report.
Secretarial Audit
As required under provisions of Section 204(l) of the Act read with Rule 9 of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, as amended and Regulation 24A of the Listing Regulations, the Company appointed M/s. Sanjay Grover & Associates, Company Secretaries, to carry out the Secretarial Audit for FY 2024-25.
The Secretarial Audit Report, as provided by the auditors, does not contain any qualifications, reservations, adverse remarks, or disclaimers. The Report is annexed to this Annual Report and forms an integral part of it.
Pursuant to Regulation 24A of the Listing Regulations, every listed company is required to annex with its annual report the Secretarial Audit Report of its material subsidiaries incorporated in India.
|
1. 16th May 2024
|
2. 9’" July 2024
|
3. 8,h August 2024
|
|
4. 27“‘ Seotember 2024
|
5. 14th November 2024
|
6. 24th December 2024
|
|
7. 14"' February, 2025
|
8. 4th March 2025
|
9. 18th March, 2025
|
In compliance with this provision, the Secretarial Audit Report for FY 2024-25 of Spice Money Limited, a material subsidiary af the Company, has been duiy annexed and forms an integral part of this Annual Report.
Appointment of Secretarial Auditors
After evaluating and considering various factors such as industry experience, competency of the audit team, efficiency in conduct of audit, independence, etc., the appointment of M/s Sanjay Grover & Associates, Company Secretaries, a peer reviewed firm (Firm
Registration Number: P2001DE052900) as Secretarial Auditors of the Company for a term of five consecutive years commencing from FY 2025-26 till FY 2029-30, is proposed, subject to approval of the Members.
The appointment of Secretarial Auditors shall be in terms of the amended Regulation 24A of the Listing Regulations vide SEBI Notification dated 12th December, 2024 and provisions of Section 204 of the Act and Rule 9 of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014.
Annual Secretarial Compliance Report
A Secretarial Compliance Report for the financial year ended 31st March, 2025 on compliance of all applicable SEBI Regulations and circulars/ guidelines issued thereunder, was obtained from M/s Jitendra Kumar & Associates, Company Secretaries.
Reporting of frauds
During FY 2024-25, no incidence of fraud as defined under provisions of Section 143(12) of the Act, which is required to be disclosed under
Section 134(3)(ca) of the Act, has been reported by the Statutory Auditors and Secretarial Auditors to the Audit Committee or Board.
Internal Auditors
The Board, on the recommendation of Audit Committee, in its meeting held on 23rd May, 2025, re-appointed T R Chadha & Co LLP, Chartered Accountants, as Internal Auditors of the Company for the FY 2025-26.
The Internal Auditors directly report to the Audit Committee.
Number of Board meetings - Nine(9) meetings of the board of directors were held during FY 2024-25, as under:
Meeting held on 8th August, 2024 was adjourned and the adjourned meeting was also commenced and concluded the same day t.e, on 8th August, 2024. The details of attendance of the Directors in said meetings are given in CGR, which forms part of the Annual Report.
Directors and Key Managerial Personnel ('KMP')
At present, Mr. Rohit Ahuja, Executive Director, Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, Chief Financial Officer (interim) and Ms. Ruchi Mehta, Company Secretary and Compliance Officer are designated as the KMP of the Company in compliance with provisions of Section 203 of the Act.
The changes in Directors and KMP during FY 2024-25, were as under:
1. Mr. Venkatromu Jayanthi was designated as an Executive Director effective 1st April 2024;
2. Mr. Venkatramu Jayanthi resigned as an Executive Director effective 28th February, 2025 and continued as Non-Executive Director thereafter;
3. Mr. Vinit Kishore, CFO resigned effective end of business hours on 18th May 2024;
4. Mr. Vineet Mahajan was appointed as CFO with effect from 10th July 2024;
5. Mr. Mayank Jain (DIN: 00251609) was re¬ appointed as a Non-Executive Independent Director of the Company for another term of five consecutive years w.e.f. 1st October, 2024;
6. Mr. Pankaj Vaish was appointed as a Non¬ Executive Independent Director with effect from 1st October, 2024 and his appointment was approved by the Members on 22nd December, 2024;
7. Dr. (Ms.) Rash mi Aggarwal, Non-Executive Independent Director of the Company resigned w.e.f. 3rd February 2025;
8. Ms. Veena Vikas Mankar was appointed as Non-Executive Independent Director w.e.f. 14th February 2025; and
9. Mr. Vineet Mahajan, CFO, resigned effective end of business hours on 28th February, 2025.
After closure of the FY 2024-25,
1. Mr. Subramanian Murali resigned from the Board w.e.f. 30th April, 2025;
2. Mr. Ramesh Venkataraman has been appointed as Non-Executive Non-Independent Director, on 12th May, 2025;
3. Mr. Venkatramu Jayanthi resigned from the Board on 6th August, 2025; and
4. Mr. Mayank Jain resigned from the Board effective 12th August, 2025.
Mr. Rohit Ahuja, who is liable to retire by rotation at the ensuing AGM, being eligible, has offered himself for re-appointment
As required under Regulation 36 of the Listing Regulations, the relevant provisions of the Act and Secretarial Standard on General Meetings, a brief resume, nature of expertise/details of experience and other Directorships etc. of Mr. Rohit Ahuja , forms part of the Notice convening the 37th AGM.
Pursuant to the Regulation 34 read with Schedule V of the Listing Regulations, the Company has obtained a certificate from a company secretary in practice that none of the directors on the board of the Company have been debarred or disqualified from being appointed or continuing as directors of companies by SEBl/MCA or any such statutory authority, and said certificate forms a part of this annual report.
Independent Directors
The Company has received declarations from all the Independent Directors of the Company confirming that they meet the criteria of independence as prescribed under provisions of Section 149(6) of the Act; as amended. In accordance with the requirements of Regulation 25 of the Listing Regulations, the Independent Directors have also confirmed that they meet the criteria of independence as provided in the Regulation 16(l)(b) of the Listing Regulations and are not aware of any circumstance or situation, which exist or may be reasonably anticipated, that could impair or impact their ability to discharge their duties with an objective independent judgment and without any external influence.
The Board is of the opinion that the Independent Directors (including those appointed during FY 2024-25) possess the attributes of integrity, expertise, experience and proficiency and are independent of the management of the Company.
In terms of provisions of Section 150 of the Act read with rule 6 of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, as amended, Independent Directors of the Company have confirmed that they have registered themselves with the Independent Director's Databank as maintained by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs, Manesar ('IICA'),
Mr. Mrutyunjay Mahapatra, Mr. Pankaj Vaish and Ms. Veena Vikas Mankar are exempted from the requirement to undertake online proficiency self¬ assessment test, and Mr. Mayank Jain and Mr. Ram Nirankar Rastogi have successfully completed the test.
Meeting of Independent Directors
A separate meeting of the Independent Directors was held on 27th March, 2025, without the presence of Non-Independent Directors and the members of management. Independent Directors discussed, inter-alia, the performance of Non¬ Executive Non-Independent Directors including
the Chairman of the Company, Executive Director and the Board as a whole, and also the quality, quantity and timeliness of flow of information between the Company Management and the Board.
The Independent Directors gave their detailed feedback on the Board evaluation and performance of the directors evaluated by them and made suggestions for further improvement
In addition to this meeting, two other meetings of Independent Directors were held on 8th August, 2024, and 27th September, 2024, to consider and recommend the proposed Scheme of Arrangement by way of Merger between DiGiSpice Technologies Limited, Spice Money Limited, E-Arth Travel Solutions Private Limited and Vikasni Fintech Private Limited and their respective shareholders and creditors.
Committees of the Board of Directors
As on 31st March, 2025, there were Five (5) Committees of the Board of Directors constituted in accordance with the provisions of the Act and/ or Listing Regulations, viz. Audit Committee, Nomination and Remuneration Committee, Stakeholders Relationship Committee, Risk Management Committee, and Corporate Social Responsibility Committee.
In addition to above, the Board constituted Vdrious other Committees to deal with and consider the matters as delegated pursuant to the terms of reference approved by the Board. The details of the terms of reference, meetings held during FY 2024-25, attendance of directors/ members and other matters of the Audit Committee, Nomination and Remuneration Committee, Stakeholders Relationship Committee and Risk Management Committee are provided in CGR, which forms part of the Annual Report. No meeting of CSR Committee was held during the year. The constitution of Audit Committee during FY 2024-25, and changes thereafter, had been as under;
Audit Committee ('AC')
In compliance with the provisions of Section 177 of the Act and Regulation 18 of the Listing Regulations, the Company has a duly constituted AC. The AC comprised of the following Members during FY 2024-25:
|
Nome of Directors
|
Designation
|
Category
|
|
Mr. Mrutyunjay Mahapatra
|
Chairman
|
Non-Executive Independent
|
|
Mr. Pankaj Vaish1
|
Member
|
Non-Executive Independent
|
|
Dr. (Ms.) Roshmi Aggarwal2
|
Member
|
Non-Executive Independent
|
|
Mr. Subramanian Murali
|
Member
|
Non-Executive
Non-Independent
|
'Mr. Panfcaj Vaf&h became member of the AC effective 15" November, 2024;
’Dr. Rashmi Aggarwal terved as member of the AC till 3^ February 2025,
After closure of FY 2024-25,
1. Mr. Subramanian Murali ceased to be member effective 30th April, 2025.
2. Ms. Veena Vikas Mankar was appointed as a member of the AC w.e.f. 19th May, 2025.
During FY 2024-25, the AC has made several recommendations including quarterly Financial Results and Findncial Statements, appointment of Internal Auditors, Statutory Auditors, Secretarial Auditors and other statutory matters and the Board accepted all the recommendations made by the AC.
Risk Management
The Compdny has a Risk Management Policy in place, which establishes a structured and disciplined approach to risk management, in order to guide management on risk related issues. The policy lays down the principles and procedures to identify, evaluate, monitor and minimize the risk associated with the business of the Company. As a good practice, the management regularly identifies the risks associated with operations of the Company and implements the risk control system and processes.
The Company has constituted a Risk Management Committee which has been
entrusted with responsibility of monitoring and reviewing the Risk Management Policy and framework, ensuring that appropriate methodologies, processes and systems are in place and recommending to the Board any amendments or modifications thereof. The constitution of the Risk Management Committee has been provided in the CGR,
The Board, on recommendation of the AC and RMC, reviews the major risks associated with the business of the Company and ensures that appropriate systems/frameworks for risk management are in place.
The AC also evaluates and oversees risk management framework relating to financial reporting process, disclosures of financial information, internal controls, compliance, financial and risk management policies.
A detailed disclosure on various Risk factors associated with businesses of the Company Is given in Management Discussion and Analysis Report.
Details in respect of adequacy of Internal Financial Controls with reference to the Financial Statements
The Company has robust internal financial control ('IFC') system which are commensurate with its size and nature of its operations to ensure proper recording of financial and operational information and compliance of various internal controls and other regulatory and statutory compliances. Self-certification exercise is also conducted by which senior management certifies effectiveness of the internal control system of the Company.
Findings of the Internal Audit Report are reviewed by the top management and by the Audit Committee invariably and proper follow up actions are ensured, wherever required.
The Audit Committee ensures that the Company maintains effective risk management and internal
control systems and processes. It provides its feedback and recommendation on the relevant matters to the Board.
The Statutory Auditors and Internal Auditors also evaluate the system of Internal Controls of the Company and report to the Audit Committee. Appropriate steps are taken to bridge the gaps observed by them. In opinion of the Statutory Auditors, the Company has, in all material respects, an adequate internal financial controls system with reference to financial statements and such internal financial controls with reference to financial statements were operating effectively as at 31st March, 2025.
Corporate Social Responsibility ('CSR')
The Company had constituted a CSR Committee which had following constitution during FY 2024-25:
|
1
|
Mr. Dilip Modi
|
Chairman
|
|
2
|
Mr. Subramanian Murali
|
Member
|
|
3
|
Mr. Mayank Jain
|
Member
|
After closure of the year, Mr. Murali ceased to be member of the Committee w.e.f. 30th April, 2025 and Ms. Veena Vikas Mankar was appointed as member of the Committee w.e.f. 19th May, 2025.
During FY 2024-25, provisions of CSR including Section 135 of the Act were not applicable. The CSR Committee has been discontinued effective 12th August 2025.
Performance Evaluation of the Board, its Committees and Individual Directors
Pursuant to applicable provisions of the Act and relevant provisions of the Listing Regulations, the Board, in consultation with NRC, has formulated a framework containing, inter-alia, the criteria for performance evaluation of the entire Board of the Company, its Committees and individual Directors, including Independent Directors. During the year, the said criteria were reviewed by the
NRC and the Committee decided to continue with the same criteria for evaluation purpose.
A structured questionnaire has been prepared, covering various aspects of the functioning of the Board and its committees, such as, adequacy of the constitution and composition of the Board and its committees, discharge of role and responsibilities by the Board and its committees, succession plan for Board Members and Senior Management, frequency of the meetings, regulatory compliances and Corporate Governance, etc. Similarly, for evaluation of individual director's performance including for Independent Directors, the questionnaire covers various aspects like his/ her attendance at the meetings of Board and its committees, contribution in the Board and committee meetings, execution and performance of specific duties, obligations, regulatory compliances and governance, adequate and timely disclosures, etc.
The Board has carried out formal annual evaluation for FY 2024-25 of performance of every director including the Executive Director, its own performance and those of its committees, by way of internal assessment. The performance evaluation of the Independent Directors has been done by the entire Board, excluding the Director being evoluated on the basis of performance and fulfillment of the independence criteria as specified under the Act and the Listing Regulations.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 134(3)(c) and 134(5) of the Act, the Directors would like to state and confirm that executive management has assured the board that:
a) In preparation of the financial statement for the financial year ended 31st March, 2025, applicable accounting standards had been followed along with proper explanation relating to material departures, if any;
b) Such accounting policies had been selected and applied consistently and judgments and estimates made that are reasonable and prudent so as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company as at 31st March 2025
and of the loss of the Company for that period;
c) Proper and sufficient care has been taken for the maintenance of adequate accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 for safeguarding the assets of the company and for preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities;
d) The annual accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis;
e) Internal financial controls had been laid down and followed by the company and that such internal financial controls are adequate and were operating effectively; and
f) Proper systems had been devised to ensure compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating effectively
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Indian Accounting Standards (ind-AS) prescribed under provisions of Section 133 of the Act read with rules made thereunder.
These affirmations are based on the system of Company on internal control and compliance, the report of internal, statutory and secretarial auditors, including the audit of internal financial controls over financial reporting by the statutory auditors and the reviews performed by management and the relevant board committees, including the oudit committee.
Management Discussion and Analysis Report
In terms of Regulation 34 of the Listing Regulations, Management Discussion and Analysis ('MDA') Report is presented in a separate section, forming part of the Annual Report.
Business Responsibility & Sustainability Report (‘BRSR')
The provisions of BRSR are presently not applicable to the Company, however, the Company is aligned with the significance of environmental, social and governance issues and continues to align its operations accordingly.
Corporate Governance Report
A separate report on Corporate Governance ('CGR') is enclosed as part of this Annual Report.
Annual Return
In accordance with the provisions of Sections 92(3) and 134(3)(a) of the Act, the Annual Return (Form MGT-7) for FY 2024-25, is available on the Company's website at link https:// investorrelations.diaispice.com/documents/ annuahreturn-2024-25.pdf
Particulars of Loans, Guarantees or Investments
The details of Loons, Guarantees or Investments made under provisions of Section 186 of the Act are provided in the Note 40 of the Standalone Financial Statements.
Maintenance of cost records
Business activities of the Company are not covered under the ambit of Section 148 of the Act read with the Companies (Cost Records and Audit) Rules, 2014, hence, the Company is not required to maintain cost records as specified by the Central Government under above said provisions.
Public Deposits
During FY 2024-25, the Company has neither accepted nor renewed any deposits in terms of Chapter V of the Act and no amount of interest or principal was outstanding as on 31st March, 2025.
Particular of Contracts or Arrangements with Related Parties
All related party transactions, undertaken during FY 2024-25, are in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Act and the Listing Regulations.
As required under Regulation 23 of the Listing Regulations, all related party transactions are placed before AC for its approval. The AC has granted Omnibus approval for related party transactions which are repetitive in nature and fall within the criteria laid down for the purpose.
The details of transactions with related parties are placed at the Audit Committee quarterly for its review.
The 'Policy on Related Party Transactions' dealing with such transactions and 'Policy for determining Material Subsidiaries' are uploaded on the website of the Company viz, www.digispice.com.
There were no related party transactions entered into by the Company with Directors, KMPs or other related parties which may have a potential conflict with the interest of the Company.
During FY 2024-25:
• All contracts/arrangements/transactions with related parties were at arm's length basis and all contracts/arrangements with related parties were in the ordinary course of business; Ý No material contracts/arrangements/ transactions were entered into with any of the related parties exceeding 10% of the annual consolidated turnover as per the last audited financial statements of the Company.
Though all the transactions with related parties were in ordinary course of business and at arm's length, certain transactions for which approval of shareholders had been taken are disclosed in Form AOC-2, which is attached as Annexure- A and forms part of this report. The details of the transactions with related parties are provided in Note 33 of stondaione financial statements and Note 39 of the consolidated financial statements. Disclosures of transactions with Spice Connect Private Limited ('Promoter') who hold 10% or more shareholding in the Company, are provided in the Note 33 of the Standolone Financial Statements.
Vigil Mechanism
Pursuant to provisions of Section 177 of the Act, Regulation 22 of the Listing Regulations and Regulotion 9A(6) of the PIT Regulations, the Company has established 'Vigil Mechanism/ Whistle Blower Policy' for Directors and Employees and other stakeholders.
This Policy has been established with a view to provide a tool to directors and employees of the Company and other stakeholders to report, to the
management genuine concerns including unethical behavior, actual or suspected fraud or violation of the Code of Conduct of the Company. This Policy outlines the procedures for reporting, handling, investigating and deciding on the course of action to be taken in case inappropriate conduct is noticed or suspected.
This Policy also provides far adequate safeguards against victimisation of director(s) or employee(s) or any other person who avails of the mechanism and also provides for direct access to the Chairman of the Audit Committee in exceptional cases. The Audit Committee is authorized to oversee the Vigil Mechanism/ Whistle Blower Policy in the Company. The Company has not received any concerns/ grievances under the said policy during the year under review.
The Vigil mechanism/Whistle Blower Policy is available on the Company's website at the link https://investarrelations.digispice.com/files/SML- WBP-01-04-2019.pdf
Company's policy on Directors' appointment and Remuneration and other matters provided under Section 178(3) of the Act
Assessment and appointment of members to the Board is based on a combination of criteria that includes ethics, personal and professional stature, domain expertise, gender diversity and specific qualifications required for the position. For appointment of an Independent Director, the independence criteria defined in Section 149(6) of the Act and Regulation 16(l)(b) of the SEBI Listing Regulations are also considered.
The Board of Directors, on the recommendation of the NRC of the Company, had framed a Policy for nomination and appointment of Directors. As required under provisions of Section 178(3) of the Act and Regulation 19 read with Schedule II of the Listing Regulations, the NRC also recommended to the Board the policy on remuneration, including stock options to Directors (excluding Independent Directors), KMP, SMP and other employees af the Company, which was duly approved by the board
The policy in terms of Section 178(3) of the Act is available at
https.//investorrelations.digispice.com/
information.php?page=policies.
The Board on the recommendation of the NRC appoints the Senior Management Personnel from time to time.
During FY 2024-25, the Non-Executive Directors of the Company had no pecuniary relationship or transactions with the Company, other than sitting fees to Independent Directors, allotment of shares against options granted under ESOP scheme and reimbursement of expenses, wherever required.
Employees Stock Option Plan
The Company has Employee Stock Option Plan named 'DTL Employees Stock Option Plan - 2018' for the Employees of the Company, and of a group company including subsidiary or its associate company, or of a holding company of the Company. The DTL ESOP Plan is administered by the NRC.
The NRC in its meeting(s) held on 18th September, 2018, 5th February, 2019,1st August, 2022 and 8th August, 2024 had granted Options under DTL Employees Stock Option Scheme - 2018 ('DTL ESOP Scheme') to eligible employees. Details of the said ESOPs have been provided in note 35 of Standalone Financial Statements.
The DTL ESOP Scheme was implemented effective 11th February 2018, pursuant to shareholders approval. The Plan has been amended by NRC by resolution dated 8th August, 2024 and the amendments were further approved by Special Resolution passed by the Shareholders af the Company in 36th AGM held on 28th September, 2024. The amendment included extension of maximum vesting period, change in exercise period etc., the details whereof are available on website of the Company at https.//investorreiations.diaispica.com/ documentsZ792275449 02 DigiSpice Notice 06 0924.pdf
The amended ESOP plan of the company is available at
https.//investorrelations.diaispic0.com/ articles/943665477 Employee-Stock-Option- Scheme-Documents.pdf
The Certificate issued by the Secretarial Auditors of the Company as required under Regulation 13 of the SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021, confirming that the ESOP Scheme has been implemented in accordance with the said Regulations and the resolutions passed by the members, would be made available at the AGM for inspection by members.
The applicable disclosures as on 31st March, 2025, as stipulated under the aforesaid Regulations, with regard to the ESOP Scheme of the Company are available on the website of the Company at
https‘.//investorrelations.digispice.com/
documents/esop-disclosure-2025.pdf
Particulars of Employees
In terms of the provisions of Section 197(12) of the Act read with Rule 5 of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, as amended, the details of remuneration and other details of the Directors, KMP and employees as mentioned under the said rule is annexed as Annexure - B which forms part of this report.
Prevention of Sexual Harassment
The Company has consistently been putting its effort to create a safe working environment for every employee particularly women employees. Towards this effort and as per requirement under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prohibition, Prevention and Redressal) Act, 2013, as amended, ('POSH Act') the Company has put in place a Policy on 'Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace'. The Company has complied with the provisions relating to the constitution of Internal Committee during the FY 2024-25. However, in view of the number of employees falling below the minimum threshold, POSH Act is no longer applicable to the Company.
The details of complaints filed, disposed of and pending as on 31st March, 2025 is provided in the CGR.
Compliance with Maternity Benefit Act
The Company has complied with the provisions relating to the Maternity Senefit Act 1961 during the FY 2024-25.
Significant and Material Orders passed by the Regulators, Courts or Tribunal
No significant ond materia! orders were passed by the Regulators, Courts or Tribunals impacting the going concern status and Company's operations in future.
Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption and Foreign Exchange Earnings and Outgo
The information pursuant to provisions of Section 134 of the Act read with Rule 8(3) of the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, as amended, related to Conservation of Energy, Technology Absorption, Foreign Exchange Earnings and Outgo is as attached as Annexure - C.
Compliance with Secretarial Standards
The Company has complied with the provisions of SS ~ 1 and SS — 2 issued by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India.
Material changes and commitments, if any, affecting the financial position of the Company which have occurred between the end of the financial year of the Company to which the financial statements relate and the date of the Report
No material changes and commitments offecting the financial position of the Company occurred between the end of the financial year to which these financial statements relate and the date of this Report.
Proceedings pending under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (31 of 2016)
There is no proceeding pending against the Company under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Acknowledgements
Your Directors would like to express their grateful appreciation for continued support received from the Banks, Government Authorities, Customers, Vendors and Members during the year under
review. Your Directors also wish to place on record their deep sense of appreciation for the committed services of the employees of the Company and its subsidiaries at all levels.
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors of DiGiSPlCE Technologies Limited
Dilip Modi
Date: 12th August, 2025 Chairman
Place: Noida (DIM-00029062)
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