MIRA INFORM REPORT

 

 

Report Date :

17.12.2007

 

IDENTIFICATION DETAILS

 

Name :

PRAJ INDUSTRIES LIMITED

 

 

Registered Office :

"PRAJ HOUSE",, Bavdhan, Pune 411 021, Maharashtra

 

 

Country :

India

 

 

Financials (as on) :

31.03.2007

 

 

Date of Incorporation :

08.11.1985

 

 

Com. Reg. No.:

11-38031

 

 

CIN No.:

[Company Identification No.]

L27101PN1985PLC038031

 

 

Legal Form :

A Public Limited Liability company. The company’s shares are listed on the stock exchanges.

 

 

Line of Business :

Design, Manufacture, Supply and Commissioning of Fermentation and Distillation Equipment for Manufacture of Alcohol, Using latest continuous Fermentation Technology.

 

RATING & COMMENTS

 

MIRA’s Rating :

A

 

RATING

STATUS

PROPOSED CREDIT LINE

56-70

A

Financial & operational base are regarded healthy. General unfavourable factors will not cause fatal effect. Satisfactory capability for payment of interest and principal sums

Fairly Large

 

Maximum Credit Limit :

USD 6300000

 

 

Status :

Good

 

 

Payment Behaviour :

Regular

 

 

Litigation :

Clear

 

 

Comments :

Subject is a well – established company having satisfactory track. Trade relations are fair. General financial position is satisfactory. Payments are usually correct and as per commitments.

 

The company can be considered normal for business dealings at usual trade terms and conditions.   

 

LOCATIONS

 

Registered/Head Office :

"PRAJ HOUSE",, Bavdhan, Pune 411 021, Maharashtra, India 

Tel. No.:

91-20-22951511/22952214/39806666 / 22905000

Fax No.:

91-20-22951718 / 22951515

E-Mail :

info@praj.net

Website :

http://www.praj.net

 

 

INDIA

 

Address 1:

2nd  Floor, City Mall, Ganeshkhind Road, Near National Informatics Centre, Chaturshrungi, Pune-411 016

Tel No.:

91-20-66248400/66248699

Fax No.:

91-20-66248417

Email:

info@praj.net

 

 

Address 2:

201, Sukhdev Vihar, Near Escorts Heart Institute, Opposite - Police Station,  New Delhi - 110 025.

Telfax No.:

91-11-26911583/26911584/26911586

Email:

prajdel@bol.net.in

 

 

Address 3:

No.173, 10th  Cross, 10th  `A` Main, Indira Nagar,IInd  Stage, Bangalore 560 038

Tel No.:

91-80-25251680/25251484

Fax No.:

91-80-25202432

Email:

prajblr@vsnl.net

 

 

Factory 1:

Sanaswadi, Pune 412 207, Maharashtra..

 

 

Factory 2:

Rabale, Navi Mumbai 400 701, Maharashtra.

 

 

Factory 3:

EOU-. Dhanori, Pune 412 105, Maharashtra.

 

 

Factory 4:

Kandla SEZ: Gandhidham, Kutch 370 230, Gujarat.

 

 

 

 

Export Oriented Unit

Gat No. 105, Taluka Khed, District – Pune Alandi Markal Road, Dhanori, Pune 412 105.

 

 

R and D Centre

Matrix - The Innovation Center "PRAJ HOUSE1, Bavdhan, Pune 411 021

 

 

INTERNATIONAL

 

Address:

Calle 70 A, No. 7-36. Apto 502, Edificio Luby, Santafede Bogota, D.C. Colombia, Sur America

Telefax No.:

91-57-1-2122162.

Email:

prajamer@elsitio.net.co

 

 

Address:

Post Box # : 41738 Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

Tel No.:

91-971-6-5263371

Fax No.:

91-971-6-5557302

Email:

praj_mna@eim.ae

praj_mna@emirates.net.ae

 

 

Address:

C/o Darmniti Law Office, 4th  floor, Ni-lert tower, 2/4 Wireless Road. Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

Tel No.:

91-66-2-6553346

Fax No.:

91-66-2-6553347

Email:

prajbkk@mweb.co.th

 

 

Address:

Post Box No. 650847, Benmore, 2010,  Johannesburg Republic of South Africa.

Tel No.:

91-27-11-8838297

Email:

praj.joburg@mweb.co.za

 

DIRECTORS

 

Name :

Mr. Pramod Chaudhari

Designation :

Chairman

 

 

Name :

Mr. Shashank Inamdar

Designation :

Managing Director

 

 

Name :

Mr. Venkatachala Datar

Designation :

Director

 

 

Name :

Mr. Berjis Desai

Designation :

Director

 

 

Name :

Mr. Sivaramakrishnan Iyer

Designation :

Director

 

 

Name :

Mr. Rakesh Jhunjhunwala

Designation :

Director

 

 

Name :

Mr. Anil Joshi

Designation :

Director

 

 

Name :

Mr. Parimal Chaudhari

Designation :

Director

 

 

Name :

Mr. Daljit Mirchandani

Designation :

Director

Date of Appointment :

18.04.2007

 

KEY EXECUTIVES

 

Name :

Mr. Deepak Mogal

Designation :

Company Secretary

 

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS / SHAREHOLDING PATTERN

 

As on 30.06.2007

 

Names of Shareholders

No. of Shares

Percentage of Holding

Promoters

25801384

28.24

Mutual Funds

6779020

7.42

Banks

36464

0.04

Foreign Institutional Investors

10666298

11.67

Bodies Corporate

9208062

10.08

Indian Public

28318273

30.99

Clearing Members

1029019

1.13

Non-Resident Indians

8723234

9.54

OCB

811125

0.89

 

 

 

Total

91372879

100.00

 

BUSINESS DETAILS

 

Line of Business :

Design, Manufacture, Supply and Commissioning of Fermentation and Distillation Equipment for Manufacture of Alcohol, Using latest continuous Fermentation Technology.

 

 

Products :

Product

Item No.

Distillery Plants Equipment

84194020

Brewery Equipment

84384040

IT Software & IT Enabled Services

85249113

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

 

No. of Employees :

About 1200

 

 

Bankers :

  • Bank of Maharashtra
  • State Bank of India
  • ABN Amro Bank
  • HSBC Limited

 

 

 

Banking Relations :

Satisfactory

 

 

Auditors :

B. K. Khare and Company

Chartered Accountant 

Address:

706/708, Sharda Chambers, New Marine Lines, Mumbai 400 020

 

 

Internal Auditors

G. D. Apte and Company

Chartered Accountants,

1202/17E, Shivajinagar, Off Apte Road, Pune 411 004.

 

 

Associates/Subsidiaries :

  • Pacecon Engineering Projects Limited
  • Praj Far East Pte Limited
  • Yaan Esites Limited

 

CAPITAL STRUCTURE

 

Authorised Capital :

No. of Shares

Type

Value

Amount

 

 

 

 

135,000,000

Equity Shares

Rs. 2/- Each

Rs. 270.000 Millions

 

 

 

 

 

Issued, Subscribed & Paid-up Capital :

No. of Shares

Type

Value

Amount

 

 

 

 

83,900,066

Equity Shares

Rs. 2/- Each

Rs. 167.800 Millions

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCIAL DATA

[all figures are in Rupees Millions]

 

ABRIDGED BALANCE SHEET

 

SOURCES OF FUNDS

 

31.03.2007

31.03.2006

31.03.2005

SHAREHOLDERS FUNDS

 

 

 

1] Share Capital

167.800

162.225

81.113

2] Share Application Money

90.333

0.000

0.000

3] Reserves & Surplus

1314.728

387.292

340.814

4] (Accumulated Losses)

0.000

0.000

0.000

NETWORTH

1572.861

549.517

421.927

LOAN FUNDS

 

 

 

1] Secured Loans

0.000

0.000

0.000

2] Unsecured Loans

0.000

0.000

0.000

TOTAL BORROWING

0.000

0.000

0.000

DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES

41.363

29.978

24.097

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

1614.224

579.495

446.024

 

 

 

 

APPLICATION OF FUNDS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FIXED ASSETS [Net Block]

371.686

270.955

207.214

Capital work-in-progress

82.842

8.067

3.569

 

 

 

 

INVESTMENT

1806.998

387.649

114.445

DEFERREX TAX ASSETS

0.000

0.000

0.000

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS, LOANS & ADVANCES

 

 

 

 

Inventories

971.294
203.534

300.268

 

Sundry Debtors

1236.410
394.580

223.540

 

Cash & Bank Balances

373.844
294.746

201.187

 

Other Current Assets

258.903
107.189

49.822

 

Loans & Advances

313.220
163.738

129.609

Total Current Assets

3153.671

1163.787

904.426

Less : CURRENT LIABILITIES & PROVISIONS

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities

3788.916
1126.625

714.838

 

Provisions

12.057
124.338

68.792

Total Current Liabilities

3800.973

1250.963

783.630

Net Current Assets

[647.302]

(87.176)

120.796

 

 

 

 

MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES

0.000

0.000

0.000

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

1614.224

579.495

446.024

 

PROFIT & LOSS ACCOUNT

 

PARTICULARS

 

31.03.2007

31.03.2006

31.03.2005

Sales Turnover

6074.744

2674.985

2383.232

Other Income

89.328

25.326

0.000

Total Income

6164.072

2700.311

2383.232

 

 

 

 

Profit/(Loss) Before Tax

1103.649

323.871

279.125

Provision for Taxation

238.356

79.746

61.548

Profit/(Loss) After Tax

865.293

244.125

217.577

 

 

 

 

Earnings in Foreign Currency :

 

 

 

 

Export Earnings

1336.295

674.728

0.000

 

Consultancy ad Others

1.125

35.150

0.000

 

IT Software and IT enables Services

517.584

160.468

1259.539

Total Earnings

1855.004

870.346

1259.539

 

 

 

 

Imports :

 

 

 

 

Raw Materials

518.066

189.665

201.901

 

Components

258.722

79.884

0.000

Total Imports

776.788

269.549

201.901

 

 

 

 

Expenditures :

 

 

 

 

Cost of Operations

4,398.702

1,995.457

0.000

 

Personnel Expenses

286.190

171.265

0.000

 

Other Expenses

341.406

177.907

2104.107

 

Finance Charges

2.517

5.309

0.000

 

Depreciation

31.608

26.502

0.000

Total Expenditure

5,060.423

2,376.440

2104.107

 

QUARTERLY RESULTS

 

PARTICULARS

 

 

30.06.2007

30.09.2007

Type

 

1st Quarter

2nd Quarter

Sales Turnover

 

1384.900

1703.000

Other Income

 

197.900

114.300

Total Income

 

1582.800

1817.300

Total Expenditure

 

1191.300

1567.800

Operating Profit

 

391.500

249.500

Interest

 

0.200

0.000

Gross Profit

 

391.300

249.500

Depreciation

 

9.800

14.100

Tax

 

98.000

[35.500]

Reported PAT

 

283.500

270.900

 

KEY RATIOS

 

PARTICULARS

 

31.03.2007

31.03.2006

31.03.2005

Debt-Equity Ratio

0.00

0.00

0.07

Long Term Debt-Equity Ratio

0.00

0.00

0.00

Current Ratio

0.84

0.99

1.15

TURNOVER RATIOS

 

 

 

Fixed Assets

13.71

7.89

8.53

Inventory

8.10

8.24

11.01

Debtors

7.65

8.81

10.56

Interest Cover Ratio

44.11

14.11

15.03

Operating Profit Margin(%)

18.60

13.78

13.48

Profit Before Interest And Tax Margin(%)

18.10

12.80

12.65

Cash Profit Margin(%)

14.37

9.94

10.04

Adjusted Net Profit Margin(%)

13.86

8.96

9.21

Return On Capital Employed(%)

111.15

71.77

77.27

Return On Net Worth(%)

85.17

50.26

59.96

 

LOCAL AGENCY FURTHER INFORMATION

 

History

 

Incorporated as subject in November 1985 and subsequently converted into a public limited company with its present name in March 1993, Subject was promoted by Pramod Chaudhari, Shashank Imandar and Associates. Currently, Pramod Chaudhari is the Chairman and Managing Director. 

 
The company is in the business of design, manufacture, supply and commissioning of fermentation and distillation equipment for manufacture of alcohol, using latest continuous fermentation technology. It has a technical collaboration with Vogelbusch, Austria; Reheat, Sweden; Dab Brav Consult, Germany and Mcbain Consultancy, UK.

 
The subsidiaries of subject are Pacecon Engineering Projects Limited, Praj Far East Private Limited, Yaan eSites Limited and Process IT LLC 

 
Subject came out with its initial public issue in January 1994, comprising 0.775 Millions equity shares at a premium of Rs. 70 each, aggregating Rs. 62.000 Millions. The public issue highlighted setting up independent marketing design and engineering facilities at Pune and modernising the existing manufacturing equipment.  


Subject has been awarded ISO Certification from TUV Cert, for its hi-flux range of plate heat exchangers. The growing demands of the process industry for effective systems, and cost-effective solutions are a key to the company's growth in the future.

  
The company has made diversification in the areas of dairy plant and equipment, fruit processing and bio-technology. It has sought international collaboration in the field of dairy engineering and has already entered into an agreement with 'Packo' of Belgium

 
The company was awarded ISO 9002 during 2000 for its manufacturing facility.

 
During August 2005 the company has sub-divided its equity share face value from Rs.10 per share to Rs.2 per share. Further the company has also issued bonus equity shares to its equity shareholders in the ratio of 1:1. 

 

The company has merged Praj Engineering Limited (PEL) with itself. According to the Scheme of Merger the company has issued 54 equity shares of Rs.10/- each to the shareholders of PEL for every 10 equity shares of Rs.10/- held by them in PEL. 

Financial Performance 

In the year under review, the company has recorded a total income of Rs. 6,164 million (previous year Rs. 2,700 million). This represents an increase of over 128% when compared to the previous financial year. Profit Before Tax also increased from Rs. 325 million in FY 2005-06 to Rs. 1104 million in FY 2005-06. There is a decided upward mobility in the key performance parameters. The Quantum Growth Strategy employed by the management has resulted into this performance level in the very first year.

In addition, the management has shown great flexibility in seizing opportunities in new (overseas) markets where larger capacity plant orders have resulted into better realization per transaction. The composition of orders in terms of technology and services has also been significant. 

Acquisitions 
In September 2006, the company acquired C. J. Schneider Engineering Company

 

Inc, based in Omaha, Nebraska, USA. 

 

During the year under review the company has invested in a Thai Company, Praj Far East Company Limited 

Assignment 
During the year the erstwhile subsidiary of the company process IT LLC USA, which was engaged in development and marketing of IT enabled client information system and related engineering package for ethanol industry, is dissolved. As per the understanding with the other stakeholders, the IPR relating to the software system mentioned above have been assigned to praj for the value of Rs 20.12 Million. 

Management Discussion and Analysis 

 

Financial Review 

 
In the financial year 2006-07, turnover more than doubled at Rs.6164 mln (Rs. 2700 mln) with EBIDTA margin of 18% (13%) 

 

Earnings Per Share was at Rs. 10.38 (Rs. 3.01) on a Rs. 2/- share. 

 
Return on Net worth is at 59% on an increased equity base (together with converted warrant options). 

 
Return on Net worth is at 59% on an increased equity base (together with converted warrant options). 

Overall Review 

The Year 2006-07 as the year in which Praj changed its trajectory.

In their consolidation year during 2005-06, they have been building the blocks for quantum growth. And now in 2006-07, they have finally made the transition into a global entity in every sense of the word. In 2006-07, they have demonstrated several initiatives which will show them differently in years to come. 

Operating Environment and Opportunities 

They present here the dynamics in their two main business lines - Ethanol Technology and Brewery Plant and Engineering. 


Ethanol Technology, Plants & Equipment 

Distillery (Ethanol) plants and equipment and related wastewater treatment systems continue to form more than 85% of the revenues. Brewery and other process equipment account for the balance 15%. 

Ethanol is here to stay. This is borne out by the fact that it has a wider spread, with many more countries adopting ethanol programmes than before, and that many countries have demonstrated their commitment by supporting R and D programmes for newer raw materials and enhanced technologies. 

The growth drivers for ethanol are multifarious, as is well known. However, environment scores the highest when it comes to ethanol blending. This is borne out by the fact that countries which are not very high gasoline consumers like Peru and 

Colombia in South America, Philippines and Indonesia in Asia or even OPEC countries like Nigeria have announced ethanol programmes. Large users of gasoline like USA, China, Japan and EU nations, continue to promote ethanol despite the volatile crude oil prices and concerns about availability of energy crops. 
 
One of the explanations for this phenomenon is the fact that as ethanol becomes more prevalent in its use, so does the potential to produce it more competitively by investing into research and development. They already see this trend wherein companies, including Praj, are investing into identifying newer energy crops like sweet sorghum and the next frontier of ethanol, cellulosic raw materials, new micro-organisms, new plant models which will be more energy efficient. The business model will become more sustainable as more and more fronts open up and more companies become active in driving this sustainability. Moving forward, they will see per acre (hectare) cost of ethanol production moving down, per litre cost of ethanol production moving down and other initiatives which will make ethanol an integral part of the fuel barrel. It will be perhaps more competitive and less fraught with strife than hydrocarbon fuels. 

The other explanation comes from the fact that ethanol is user-friendly and easy to adopt. 

·         Ethanol is a much more viable option for blending with gasoline (petrol) as it is easily miscible. 

·         Most part of the infrastructure from farm to dispensing unit is well-understood. 

·         Production of ethanol will always have a lower learning curve. New technologies will enhance the performance across the delivery chain and thus make it more sustainable. 

Praj has a good brand image as technology provider for ethanol plants, globally. 

Beer Plant and Equipment 

Beer consumption in India is slated to grow YOY basis at 20%. India has the lowest per capita consumption which is likely to move up to 0.8-1.0 by 2010. This presents a clear opportunity for beer capacities to go from current 100 mln cases to beyond 200 mln cases by 2010.

Growth in working population as also, changing life style, greater disposable income and influx of business and tourist groups has also led to the boom in this sector. Some states have come up with a policy which promotes beer production thereby attracting investment opportunities in new production facilities. It is expected that further significant growth is still to be witnessed in this sector. 

Modernization as well consolidation of brewery plant ownership will see clear opportunities for refurbishment and greenfield breweries. Currently, Subject has about 50% of the market share in India. They will aim to increase the marketshare. 
 
In an effort to offer technologies in line with international practices, Subject has entered into an association with Meura, Belgium for advanced filtration systems which enhance performance of the brewhouse, the key section of a brewery. As capacities grow, there will be more business for such equipment. 

New Business, New Markets 

The quantum strategy involves pursuit of both, organic and inorganic growth avenues.

Entry into Bio-diesel Technology, Plant and Equipment 

Praj's entry into bio-diesel is an organic growth model which will extend Subject ethanol technology leadership to bio-diesel technology solutions. 

Nearly 60% of world's transport fuel growth will come from diesel. Not only transport, but certain static machines also utilize diesel which can be easily replaced with bio-diesel. This opens up vistas of opportunity.

Matrix, their R and D centre is ready with the technology and equipment package which is totally home grown. With Europe and even USA now pursuing bio-diesel earnestly, they hope to capitalize on their presence in the region.

JV for Europe 

Praj has been active in European markets for bioethanol technology solutions for over two years, where Subject has already contracted a number of orders. Subject and Aker Kvaerner Netherlands BV had earlier entered into an alliance for Europe. 

With Europe getting ready to follow a binding guideline of 10% biofuels blending by 2020, the opportunity matrix for biofuel plants will expand.

Looking at this opportunity, the two companies have now proposed to extend their association and position themselves for greater gains in Europe, by forming a JV. 

The Boards of both the companies have given consent to implement the JV to be located in Netherlands. Praj will hold 60% and Aker Kavaerner will hold 40% of the shareholding in this JV. Aker Kvaerner is a leading global provider of engineering and construction services, technology products and integrated solutions. The JV will also combine the technological expertise of Praj with the execution capabilities of Aker Kvaerner and their knowledge of European work regulations, etc. 

Subsidiary in USA 

During the year, Subject acquired 100% shares of C J Schneider Engineering Company

Inc, an engineering company based in Omaha, Nebraska, USA. The Company is active in the field of detailed engineering for ethanol plants (other than in Praj scope). Their role complements that of Subject. 


Research, Development and Innovation 

R and D facility, Matrix-The Innovation center, is under a major upgradation.

Keeping in view the critical role of R and D in strengthening Praj's prospects, a capex of Rs. 400 million has been allocated. Land for an entirely new facility, measuring about 4 acres, supporting biofuels as well as industrial biotech (white biotech) related R and D, has been purchased.

Work is already underway at the site. Meanwhile, programmes already on hand will continue at the current location. 
 
Manufacturing 
 
Apart from the existing facilities, Subject has added two more manufacturing facilities including a unit in SEZ. Focus is on deploying modern tecquniques in the units to build in more efficiency. 

The total area under manufacturing is now at over 4,50,000 sq. ft. subject will be in a position to handle double the manufacturing load as compared to the previous year. 

Processes and Systems 

The company selected mySAP ERP ECC 6.0 system which includes Project Life Cycle Management, Corporate Performance and ERP and HR Management Systems.

The system has 'gone live' in April 2007. Full benefit of the system will be seen in the coming financial years. PwC is the implementation partner. 

Pride Human Resources 

Recruitment and Retention are key parts of Praj's HR strategy. The company intensified its talent seek programme, adding 50% to its staff. Today, they have more than 600 personnel, making them one of the largest resource for biofuels. In future also, the company will continue to seek manpower at various levels to make its hierarchy more robust. Recruitment is continuing at all levels. 

As an equal opportunity employer, the company is seeking more candidates from the pool of trained professional women. The first batch has been recruited under this policy in order to widen women in workplace. 

 The company's engineering / technical staff forms 80% of the workforce.

The Employee Stock Option Plan, launched in 2005, has been well received.

The first option was exercised in October 2006. 

The Grievance Committee to review and settle cases under 'Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy' did not receive any complaints. 

Corporate Social Responsibility 

Subject Foundation has been actively working towards fulfilling social responsibilities of the company.

Many initiatives were undertaken during the year which includes areas like environment, education, health and art. 
 
The Nalla Park project is awaiting clearances from local authority. The blueprint is ready. The project is expected to progress in this financial year. As mentioned before, the project envisages construction of an eco-friendly park which will also serve as a demonstration project for such programmes. 

Future Outlook 

By 2010, fuel ethanol production will cross 90 bln litres per annum from the current 59 bln litres. Quantum growth is largely being seen in Brazil, USA and Europe. 

Subject has covered pretty much all fronts in terms of geography. 

They are exploring ways to present PRAJ in these markets. The picture will be clearer on the Brazil front, very soon with plans to set up operations through the acquisition route. 

The company is also exploring the possibility locating of overseas sourcing hubs, wherein China will play a critical role. 
 
Awards, Certification and Recognition 

Pramod Chaudhari, Chairman, Subject, was conferred an award for 'Outstanding Contribution through Innovation' for leading the company in the development of technology for production of renewable fuel ethanol from Sweet Sorghum.

The award was conferred by Chemtech Foundation. 

Recognition for Innovation was also received from Pune Alumni Cell of IIT Bombay together with The Indus Entrepreneur. 
 
As a member of premier forums in the world, including the Global Growth Company's (part of World Economic Forum), Praj will continue to take its brand equity to higher levels. 

As member of CII and other institutions and through his personal involvement with various other institutes of public interest, Chairman, Pramod Chaudhari represents subject civic responsibilities. 

Subject participation in world's leading biofuel forum through its sponsorships has seen Subject gain in brand value. Subject is one of the few companies in this field who represent India in biofuel technologies. 

 ASME and ISO 

In addition to ASME H and U accredition for the existing facility at Sanaswadi, Subject also received accredition for its Rabale facility. The facility was established during the year and within a short span of six months it received recognition from ASME. Subject has supplied many equipment under CE marking.  

Concerns and Challenges 

As the company is moving deeper into different geographies, Scaling Up is no. 1 challenge. Not only in terms of resources, but also knowledge of industries and applicable standards. However, with the recent gains in USA and Europe, it is prudent to say that this phase is also taken up in right earnest and confidence in its ability is at a high. 
 
Cultural Ethos and business practices can vary according to different regions. Also, the company is actively looking at making its employee base more culturally diverse. The European JV and the US acquisition is one way in which the company will aim to assimilate culturally. 

Geo-Political Risk Management is top on the agenda. The company has initiated Enterprisewide Risk Management Exercise which will focus on geo-political risks but as also other business related risks. 

Whilst investments into the sector continue, some areas of concern have remained. A major input in the manufacture of equipment, stainless steel prices continued to spiral. The Company had adopted a policy of inventory build-up to hedge against increased prices. However, some impact is sure to be present, depending upon the project execution cycle. 

Employee Retention is another area which will continue to pose a challenge as the trained pool of talent is becoming smaller. However, the company is looking at multi-pronged approach to retaining and recruiting talent. The company grew its manpower pool by more than 50% during the last year. 

Forward Looking Statement 

Statements in this report particularly those which relate to Management Discussion and Analysis, describing the company's future plan, projections, estimate and expectations may constitute into 'Forward Looking Statements' within the meaning of applicable laws and regulations. Actual results might differ materially from those either expressed or implied. 

In case of accounts receivable and payable where statements of account have been received, book balances have been generally reconciled and adjusted appropriately. In other cases balances have been taken as per books of accounts.

 

Sundry debtors include retention amount Rs.366.539 millions (Previous year Rs. 89.343 millions)

 

The company has raised Rs. 380.397 millions through preferential allotment of equity shares and warrants during

the year. Out of this, Rs. 316.574 million is deployed towards expansion of R and D, other manufacturing facilities and acquisition of US based company. The balance of Rs. 63.823 millions is invested in liquid mutual funds and banks.

 

Erstwhile subsidiary of the company Process IT LLC USA which was engaged in development and marketing of IT enabled client information system and related engineering package for ethanol industry, is dissolved during the year. As per the understanding with the other stakeholders, the IPR relating to the software system mentioned above have been assigned to the company for the value of Rs 20.12 million.

 

 

Fixed Assets

 

·         Land Freehold

·         Building

·         Plant & Machinery

·         Furniture and Fixture

·         Computer

·         Office Equipment

·         Vehicles

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Praj successfully commissions British Sugar Bioethanol Plant

 

Written by vinci   

Tuesday, 11 December 2007

Pune – December 5, 2007

 

Praj awarded global recognition

Subject leaders in biofuels technology, has been awarded the Forbes ‘Best Under A Billion Company’ in Asia. Praj is amongst the 17 companies from India who have made it to the list having demonstrated its performance in terms of sales, profitability and returns for shareholder.

The Forbes list draws from over 22,500 publicly listed mid-sized companies in Asia and the Pacific. Those with less than $1 billion in sales are vetted for consistent growth of both sales and profits over three years.  Praj has done this in an emerging field like biofuels technology where there has been no precedence.

 “The award represents our performance for the last three years and it feels good to be recognized.  It is a reward deserved by all the Prajites and I am truly happy to receive it on their behalf, said Pramod Chaudhari, Chairman Subject at the recently held award ceremony in Singapore.

Subject is also proud to be included on the world economic forum’s official list of founding members of the community of global growth companies. Subject was chosen by because of its constant drive for innovation, its sustainable solutions for an emerging technology like biofuels and it’s ability to scale up in a new and challenging business like green technology and its demonstrated leadership. 

“By joining the group of Global Growth Companies, we look forward to learning and sharing experiences in order to scale up quickly as well as to incorporate global best practices. The world is very dynamic and we hope this participation will help us cross-fertilize ideas for the larger good of our planet,” added Pramod Chaudhari.

World Economic Forum Founder and Executive Chairman Klaus Schwab said, “This is a truly global community made up of companies destined to join the ranks of the multinationals in the next five to ten years. They are successful because they are able to challenge the status quo and drive their industry forward while nurturing the values of global corporate citizenship which the World Economic Forum is built upon.”

The community of Global Growth Companies is based on the premise that visionary companies can expand more rapidly at any time in history, helped by new factors such as global financing, instant communications, rapidly scaleable technologies and integrated logistical networks. In this environment, an increasing number of new players are building a global reach and competitive advantage. This group of highly influential companies is reshaping the global business landscape. While Global Growth Companies do not have the size and international reputation of traditional multinationals, they succeed through speed, flexibility and constant innovation. Some of the key indicators of these companies are:

Subject has been gaining a firm footing worldwide.  Starting with acquisition of an Engineering Company in the US, known as Subject Schnieder, it is creating a more on-ground presence to serve customer globally with a deeper local understanding.  It has formed a Joint Venture Company in The Netherlands, BioCnergy Europa B.V., along with Aker Kvaerner, the leading Engineering, Procurement and Construction Company, to offer customized solutions to European biofuels industry.  Subject has entered into Brazil with the intention of creating a larger base to serve the growing brazilian biofuels market Subject is also working in the cellulosic biomass to ethanol processing technology and is investing over US$ 10 million in enhancing its research and technology base in India.

About Praj

Subject a global biofuels technology company, offers innovative solutions to significantly add value to clean technology businesses like bio-ethanol and bio-diesel as well as for  breweries systems for customers, worldwide. Subject is a knowledge based company with expertise and experience in bioprocesses and engineering. It delivers end-to-end solutions including wastewater management. Led by an accomplished and caring leadership, Subject is a socially responsible corporate citizen. Praj is listed on the Bombay and National Stock Exchanges of India with a market capitalization of close to  USD 1 billion.

About the World Economic Forum

The World Economic Forum (http://www.weforum.org), based in Geneva, Switzerland, is an independent organization committed to improving the state of the world. Funded by the contributions of 1,000 of the world's foremost corporations, the Forum acts in the spirit of entrepreneurship in the global public interest to further economic growth and social progress. The Forum serves its members and society by creating partnerships between and among business, political, intellectual and other leaders of society to define, discuss and advance key issues on the global agenda. Incorporated in 1971 as a foundation, the World Economic Forum is impartial and not-for-profit, and is tied to no political, partisan or national interests. In 1995 the Forum was awarded NGO consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

Subject is a successfully commissions British Sugar Bioethanol Plant

 

Written by vinci   

Monday, 05 November 2007

Pune, November 5, 2007

Subject successfully commissions British Sugar Bioethanol Plant - U.K. ’s First Bioethanol Plant commissioned.

Subject global biofuels technology company recently commissioned United Kingdom’s first Bioethanol plant for British Sugar at Wissington, Norfolk.  The plant will produce 70 mln litres fuel grade ethanol from beet sugar syrup. 

We are very pleased to work with British Sugar.  Not only is it their first ethanol plant, but it is also UK’s very first ethanol plant,” said Shashank Inamdar, CEO and MD, Subject

British Sugar, the leading supplier of sugars to U.K., is part of the £6.0 bln Associated British Foods (ABF).  ABF recently entered into an agreement with BP and DuPont on an investment to build a world-scale wheat based biofuel plant in UK. ABF will hold 45% of the JV.  Praj Technology has been selected for the Project while its JV partner Aker Kvaerner is currently carrying out Frond End Engineering and Design (FEED) assignment for this project.

The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) is due to become the UK's primary mechanism to develop a market for transport biofuels as well as delivering the objectives of the Biofuel Directive. The RTFO will require road transport fuel suppliers to ensure that a proportion of the road fuel they supply in the UK comes from renewable sources.  The UK Government is due to introduce the RTFO in April 2008 which will also require suppliers to report against environmental and sustainability measures such as ‘reduction in emissions of GHG, e.g. carbon’.

 “British Sugar selected subject based on their cost competitiveness, expertise in sugar ethanol plants and progressive approach to R and D. Subject have delivered to the design standards required for UK manufacturing”, said Karl Carter, Group Development Director – British Sugar.

Subject is a global Indian company that offers innovative solutions to significantly add value in ethanol, bio-diesel and brewery technology and related wastewater treatment systems for customers, worldwide.Subject is a knowledge based company with expertise and experience in Bioprocesses and engineering. It delivers know how, License, engineering design, plant and equipment, project management, commissioning and customer care and turnkey projects. Led by an accomplished and caring leadership, Subject is a socially responsible corporate citizen. Subject is listed on the Bombay and National Stock Exchanges of India with a market capitalization of close to  USD 1 billion.

 

 


CMT REPORT (Corruption, Money Laundering & Terrorism]

 

The Public Notice information has been collected from various sources including but not limited to: The Courts, India Prisons Service, Interpol, etc.

 

1]         INFORMATION ON DESIGNATED PARTY

No records exist designating subject or any of its beneficial owners, controlling shareholders or senior officers as terrorist or terrorist organization or whom notice had been received that all financial transactions involving their assets have been blocked or convicted, found guilty or against whom a judgement or order had been entered in a proceedings for violating money-laundering, anti-corruption or bribery or international economic or anti-terrorism sanction laws or whose assets were seized, blocked, frozen or ordered forfeited for violation of money laundering or international anti-terrorism laws.

 

2]         Court Declaration :

No records exist to suggest that subject is or was the subject of any formal or informal allegations, prosecutions or other official proceeding for making any prohibited payments or other improper payments to government officials for engaging in prohibited transactions or with designated parties.

 

3]         Asset Declaration :

No records exist to suggest that the property or assets of the subject are derived from criminal conduct or a prohibited transaction.

 

4]         Record on Financial Crime :

            Charges or conviction registered against subject:                                                  None

 

5]         Records on Violation of Anti-Corruption Laws :

            Charges or investigation registered against subject:                                                          None

 

6]         Records on Int’l Anti-Money Laundering Laws/Standards :

            Charges or investigation registered against subject:                                                          None

 

7]         Criminal Records

No available information exist that suggest that subject or any of its principals have been formally charged or convicted by a competent governmental authority for any financial crime or under any formal investigation by a competent government authority for any violation of anti-corruption laws or international anti-money laundering laws or standard.

 

8]         Affiliation with Government :

No record exists to suggest that any director or indirect owners, controlling shareholders, director, officer or employee of the company is a government official or a family member or close business associate of a Government official.

 

9]         Compensation Package :

Our market survey revealed that the amount of compensation sought by the subject is fair and reasonable and comparable to compensation paid to others for similar services.

 

10]        Press Report :

            No press reports / filings exists on the subject.

 

 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 

MIRA INFORM as part of its Due Diligence do provide comments on Corporate Governance to identify management and governance. These factors often have been predictive and in some cases have created vulnerabilities to credit deterioration.

 

Our Governance Assessment focuses principally on the interactions between a company’s management, its Board of Directors, Shareholders and other financial stakeholders.

 

 

CONTRAVENTION

 

Subject is not known to have contravened any existing local laws, regulations or policies that prohibit, restrict or otherwise affect the terms and conditions that could be included in the agreement with the subject.

 

 

FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATES

 

Currency

Unit

Indian Rupees

US Dollar

1

Rs.39.35

UK Pound

1

Rs.80.36

Euro

1

Rs.57.62

 

 

SCORE & RATING EXPLANATIONS

 

SCORE FACTORS

 

RANGE

POINTS

HISTORY

1~10

7

PAID-UP CAPITAL

1~10

7

OPERATING SCALE

1~10

7

FINANCIAL CONDITION

 

 

--BUSINESS SCALE

1~10

9

--PROFITABILIRY

1~10

6

--LIQUIDITY

1~10

7

--LEVERAGE

1~10

7

--RESERVES

1~10

7

--CREDIT LINES

1~10

7

--MARGINS

-5~5

-

DEMERIT POINTS

 

 

--BANK CHARGES

YES/NO

YES

--LITIGATION

YES/NO

NO

--OTHER ADVERSE INFORMATION

YES/NO

NO

MERIT POINTS

 

 

--SOLE DISTRIBUTORSHIP

YES/NO

NO

--EXPORT ACTIVITIES

YES/NO

YES

--AFFILIATION

YES/NO

YES

--LISTED

YES/NO

YES

--OTHER MERIT FACTORS

YES/NO

YES

TOTAL

 

64

 

This score serves as a reference to assess SC’s credit risk and to set the amount of credit to be extended. It is calculated from a composite of weighted scores obtained from each of the major sections of this report. The assessed factors and their relative weights (as indicated through %) are as follows:

 

Financial condition (40%)            Ownership background (20%)                 Payment record (10%)

Credit history (10%)                    Market trend (10%)                                Operational size (10%)

 


 

RATING EXPLANATIONS

 

RATING

STATUS

 

 

PROPOSED CREDIT LINE

>86

Aaa

Possesses an extremely sound financial base with the strongest capability for timely payment of interest and principal sums

 

Unlimited

71-85

Aa

Possesses adequate working capital. No caution needed for credit transaction. It has above average (strong) capability for payment of interest and principal sums

 

Large

56-70

A

Financial & operational base are regarded healthy. General unfavourable factors will not cause fatal effect. Satisfactory capability for payment of interest and principal sums

 

Fairly Large

41-55

Ba

Overall operation is considered normal. Capable to meet normal commitments.

 

Satisfactory

26-40

B

Unfavourable & favourable factors carry similar weight in credit consideration. Capability to overcome financial difficulties seems comparatively below average.

 

Small

11-25

Ca

Adverse factors are apparent. Repayment of interest and principal sums in default or expected to be in default upon maturity

 

Limited with full security

<10

C

Absolute credit risk exists. Caution needed to be exercised

 

 

Credit not recommended

NR

In view of the lack of information, we have no basis upon which to recommend credit dealings

No Rating

 

 

PRIVATE & CONFIDENTIAL : This information is provided to you at your request, you having employed MIPL for such purpose. You will use the information as aid only in determining the propriety of giving credit and generally as an aid to your business and for no other purpose. You will hold the information in strict confidence, and shall not reveal it or make it known to the subject persons, firms or corporations or to any other. MIPL does not warrant the correctness of the information as you hold it free of any liability whatsoever. You will be liable to and indemnify MIPL for any loss, damage or expense, occasioned by your breach or non observance of any one, or more of these conditions