Edgar Filing: Vedanta Ltd

FORM 20-F

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F

(Mark One)

☐	Registration statement pursuant to section 12(b) or (g) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

☒	Annual report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For fiscal year ended March 31, 2018

☐	Transition report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

☐	Shell company report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report

From the transition period from to

Commission file number 001-33175

Vedanta Limited

(Exact Name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Republic of India

1^st Floor, ‘C’ wing, Unit 103

Corporate Avenue, Atul Projects,

Chakala, Andheri (East),

Mumbai - 400 093, Maharashtra, India

(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

Prerna Halwasiya

Compliance Officer

DLF Atria, Phase-2, Jacaranda Marg, DLF City

Gurugram - 122002, Haryana, India

(91) 124 4763804

comp.sect@vedanta.co.in

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

American Depositary Shares

each representing four equity shares

par value ₹ 1 per equity share.

New York Stock Exchange

(Title of Each Class)

(Name of Exchange On Which Registered)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.

None

(Title of Class)

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.

None

(Title of Class)

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

As of March 31, 2018, 3,717,504,871 equity shares, par value ₹ 1 per equity share, were issued and outstanding, of which 248,424,696 equity shares were held in the form of 62,106,174 American Depositary Shares or ADSs.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes ☒ No ☐

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes ☐ No ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or an emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.


Large accelerated filer ☒	Accelerated filer ☐	Non-accelerated filer ☐
		Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards† provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

† The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

US GAAP ☐

International Financial Reporting Standards as issued

by the International Accounting Standards Board ☒

Other ☐

If “Other” has been checked in the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

Item 17 ☐ Item 18 ☐

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934).

Yes ☐ No ☒

TABLE OF CONTENTS


		PAGE
PART I			4
ITEM 1.	IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS		4
ITEM 2.	OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE		4
ITEM 3.	KEY INFORMATION		4
ITEM 4.	INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY		33
ITEM 4A.	UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS		127
ITEM 5.	OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS		127
ITEM 6.	DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES		163
ITEM 7.	MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS		183
ITEM 8.	FINANCIAL INFORMATION		189
ITEM 9.	THE OFFER AND LISTING		205
ITEM 10.	ADDITIONAL INFORMATION		206
ITEM 11.	QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK		249
ITEM 12.	DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES		249

PART II			251
ITEM 13.	DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES		251
ITEM 14.	MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS		251
ITEM 15.	CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES		251
ITEM 16A.	AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT		253
ITEM 16B.	CODE OF ETHICS		253
ITEM 16C.	PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES		253
ITEM 16D.	EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES		254
ITEM 16E.	PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS		254
ITEM 16F.	CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT		254
ITEM 16G.	CORPORATE GOVERNANCE		255
ITEM 16H.	MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE		255

PART III			256
ITEM 17.	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS		256
ITEM 18.	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS		256
ITEM 19.	EXHIBITS		256

SIGNATURES			265

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS			F-1

CONVENTIONS USED IN THIS ANNUAL REPORT

In this Annual Report, we refer to information regarding the zinc, oil and gas, iron ore, copper, aluminium and power industries and our competitors from market research reports, analyst reports and other publicly available sources. Although we believe that this information is reliable, we have not independently verified the accuracy and completeness of the information. We caution you not to place undue reliance on this data.

On February 25, 2012, Vedanta Resources Plc (“Vedanta”), the parent company of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited (“Sterlite” or “SIIL”), Sesa Goa Limited (“Sesa Goa”), Vedanta Aluminium Limited (“Vedanta Aluminium”), Sterlite Energy Limited (“Sterlite Energy”), Cairn India Limited (“Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business”) and The Madras Aluminium Company Limited (“MALCO”) announced an all-share merger of majority owned subsidiaries, Sesa Goa and SIIL, to create Sesa Sterlite Limited (“Sesa Sterlite” or “SSL”) and a consolidation of various subsidiaries held by Vedanta to effect the consolidation and simplification of Vedanta’s corporate structure through two series of transactions (together the “Re-organization Transactions” consisting of the “Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme” and the “Cairn India Consolidation”). The Re-organization transactions were completed during fiscal year 2014 and the name of the merged entity was changed to Sesa Sterlite Limited with effect from September 18, 2013. The name of Sesa Sterlite Limited was changed to Vedanta Limited, with effect from April 21, 2015. Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) has merged into Vedanta Limited by way of a scheme of arrangement and the Board of Directors of both the companies made the merger operative on April 11, 2017 (the “Cairn India Merger”). All references to Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and its subsidiaries is referred to as “Cairn”. See “Item 4 A. History and Development of our Company”.

Sterlite Energy was a wholly owned subsidiary of SIIL and SIIL, Vedanta Aluminium, Sesa Goa, MALCO and Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) were subsidiaries of Vedanta, the ultimate holding company. Therefore, the Re-organization Transactions and Cairn India Merger fall within the purview of the common control business combination transactions. The accounting policies described in Notes 1 and 3.D—“Business Combinations” of the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report requires that financial statements of the combined entity, Vedanta Limited, be retroactively adjusted, as if the transaction had occurred at the earliest reporting period (or from the date the entity came under common control, where such a date is later).

In this Annual Report, references to the “ADS offering” is to the initial public offering of our equity shares in the form of American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”), each currently representing four equity shares, in the United States (or the “US”) completed in June 2007.

Unless otherwise indicated, our accompanying financial information has been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, or IASB, for fiscal years ended March 31 2016, 2017 and 2018. References to a particular “fiscal” year or “FY” are to our fiscal year ended March 31 of that year. Our fiscal quarters end on June 30, September 30 and December 31. References to a year other than a “fiscal” year are to the calendar year ended December 31.

Our consolidated financial statements are reported in Indian Rupees or “₹”. Unless otherwise specified, translation of amounts for the convenience of the reader has been made in this Annual Report (i) from Indian Rupees to US dollars at the rate of ₹ 65.11 per $ 1 based on the exchange rate quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as of March 31, 2018; (ii) from Australian dollars to US dollars at the rate of AUD 0.77 per $ 1 based on the exchange rate quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as of March 31, 2018; (iii) from South African Rand to US dollars at the rate of ZAR 11.82 per $ 1 based on the exchange rate quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as of March 31, 2018 and (iv) from Namibian dollars to US dollars at the rate of NAD 11.81 per $ 1 based on the exchange rate quoted by Oanda (data available at www.oanda.com) as of March 31, 2018. As of July 20, 2018, the exchange rate between US dollars and Indian Rupees was $ 1 = ₹ 68.74 as quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. All financial information presented in US dollars has been rounded to nearest decimal. Any amount less than US dollar 0.5 million has been presented as “0”.

In this Annual Report, references to “US” or the “United States” are to the United States of America, its territories and its possessions. References to “UK” are to the United Kingdom. References to “India” are to the Republic of India. References to “Namibia” are to the Republic of Namibia. References to “South Africa” are to the Republic of South Africa. References to “Ireland” are to the Republic of Ireland. References to “Sri Lanka” are to the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. References to “UAE” are to the United Arab Emirates. References to “$”, “dollars” or “US dollars” are to the legal currency of the United States. References to “Indian Rupees”, or “₹” are to the legal currency of the Republic of India. References to “AUD”, “Australian dollars” are to the legal currency of the Commonwealth of Australia. References to “NAD” or “Namibian dollars” are to the legal currency of Namibia. References to “ZAR” or “RAND” are to the legal currency of the Republic of South Africa. References to “¢” are to US cents. References to “RMB”, “Renminbi”, “CNY” or “Chinese Yuan” are to the legal currency of the People’s Republic of China. References to “JPY” are to the legal currency of Japan.

References to “lb” are to the imperial pounds (mass) equivalent to 0.4536 kilograms, references to “mt” or “tons” are to metric tons, references to “mmt” are to million metric tons, references to “tpd” are to tons per day, references to “tpa” are to tons per annum, a unit of mass equivalent to 1,000 kilograms or 2,204.6 lb, references to “mtpa” are to million tons per annum, “mmtpa” are to million metric tons per annum, references to “wmt” are to wet metric tons, references to “dmt” are to dry metric tons, references to “oz” are to ounces, with one kilogram being equivalent to 32.1507 oz and one ton equivalent to 32,151 oz, references to “mm” are to millimeters, references to “ha” are to hectares, references to “kms” are to kilometers, a unit of area equal to 10,000 square meters or 107,639 square feet, references to “GW” are to giga watts, references to “kt” are to kilo tons, references to “bbls” are to barrels, references to “blpd” are to barrels of liquid per day, references to “mmboe” are to million barrels of oil equivalent, references to “bboe” are to billion barrels of oil equivalent, references to “mmbopd” are to million barrels of oil per day, references to “kbopd” are to kilo barrels of oil per day, references to “bopd” are to barrels of oil per day, references to “boepd” are to barrels of oil equivalent per day, references to “tcm” are to trillion cubic meters, references to “mmscmd” are to million metric standard cubic meter per day, references to “mscf” are to thousand standard cubic feet, references to “mmscf” are to million metric standard cubic feet, references to “mmscfd” are to million metric standard cubic feet per day, references to “TWh” are to terawatt TWh hours, references to “bcf” are to billion cubic feet, references to “PPA” are to power purchase agreement and references to “TcRc” are to treatment and refining charges. References to net oil and gas production are to the entitlement interest production of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and its subsidiaries, in which the Ravva royalty is not netted off. References to “GoI” are to Government of India.

We conduct our businesses both directly and through a consolidated group of companies that we have ownership interests in. See “Item 4. Information on the Company” for more information on these companies and their relationships to us. Unless otherwise stated in this Annual Report or unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Annual Report to “we”, “us”, “our”, “Vedanta Limited”, “Sesa Sterlite Limited (SSL)”, “Sesa Sterlite”, “our Company”, “the Company” or “our consolidated group of companies” mean Vedanta Limited, its consolidated subsidiaries and its predecessors, collectively, including Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) and its subsidiaries (“Cairn”), Monte Cello BV (“Monte Cello”), Copper Mines of Tasmania Proprietary Limited (“CMT”), Thalanga Copper Mines Proprietary Limited, Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (“BALCO”), Hindustan Zinc Limited (“HZL”), Fujairah Gold FZC, Sterlite (USA), Inc., (“Sterlite USA”), Talwandi Sabo Power Limited (“TSPL”), THL Zinc Ventures Limited, THL Zinc Limited, THL Zinc Holding B.V., THL Zinc Namibia Holdings (Proprietary) Limited (“ Skorpion”), Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited, Skorpion Mining Company (Proprietary) Limited, Namzinc (Proprietary) Limited, Amica Guesthouse (Proprietary) Limited, Rosh Pinah Health Care (Proprietary) Limited, Black Mountain Mining (Proprietary) Limited (“BMM”), Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited (“Lisheen”), Vedanta Lisheen Mining Limited, Killoran Lisheen Mining Limited, Killoran Lisheen Finance Limited, Lisheen Milling Limited, Vedanta Exploration Ireland Limited, Lisheen Mine Partnership, Sterlite Ports Limited, Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited, Paradip Multi Cargo Berth Private Limited, Lakomasko B.V., MALCO Energy Limited (“MALCO Energy”) (formerly known as Vedanta Aluminium), Sesa Resources Limited, Sesa Mining Corporation Limited, Bloom Fountain Limited (“BFL”), Goa Sea Port Private Limited, Twin Star Energy Holdings Limited (“TEHL”), Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Limited (“TMHL”), Western Cluster Limited (“WCL”), Maritime Ventures Private Limited, Sesa Sterlite Mauritius Holdings Limited, Twinstar Energy Holding Limited, Electrosteel Steels Limited (“ESL”) and Avanstrate Inc.(“ASI”) .

Our consolidated financial information does not include our controlling shareholder Vedanta, its shareholders and various companies owned directly or indirectly by it (other than us and our consolidated group of companies described above), including without limitations, Vedanta Resources Holdings Limited (“VRHL”), Konkola Copper Mines Plc, Twin Star Holdings Limited (“Twin Star”), Welter Trading Limited (“Welter Trading”), the Anil Agarwal Discretionary Trust (“Trust”), Conclave PTC Limited (“Conclave”), Sterlite Technologies Limited, Monte Cello Corporation NV, Valliant (Jersey) Limited, Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited, Vedanta Resources Finance Limited, Vedanta Resources Cyprus Limited, Richter Holding Limited (“Richter”), Westglobe Limited (“Westglobe”), Finsider International Company Limited (“Finsider”), Vedanta Resources Jersey Limited, Vedanta Finance (Jersey) Limited, Vedanta Jersey Investments Limited, Vedanta Finance UK Limited, Sesa Sterlite Mauritius Holdings Limited and Sterlite Grid Limited. References to the “Group” is to Vedanta Limited and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis and references to the “Vedanta Group” is to Vedanta and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

In this Annual Report, references to The London Metal Exchange Limited (“LME”) price of zinc, copper, aluminium are to the cash seller and settlement price on the LME for copper, zinc or aluminium for the period indicated. References to primary market share in this Annual Report are to the market that includes sales by producers of metal from copper concentrate or alumina, as applicable, and do not include sales by producers of recycled metal or imports.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report contains “forward-looking statements” as defined in the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about our company and our industry. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “will,” “project,” “seek,” “should” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, the discussions of our business strategy and expectations concerning our market position, future operations, margins, profitability, liquidity and capital resources. We caution you that reliance on any forward-looking statement involves risks and uncertainties, and that, although we believe that the assumptions on which our forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, any of those assumptions could prove to be inaccurate and, as a result, the forward-looking statements based on those assumptions could be materially incorrect. Factors which could cause these assumptions to be incorrect include, but are not limited to:

•

a decline or volatility in the prices of or demand for zinc, oil and gas, iron ore, copper, aluminium or power or increase in supply of zinc, oil and gas, iron ore, copper, aluminium or power;

•

events that could cause a decrease in our production and higher cost of production for zinc, oil and gas, iron ore, copper, aluminium or power;

•

unavailability or increased costs of raw materials for our products;

•

dependence on obtaining and maintaining mining leases for our mining sites and approvals from regulatory authorities for increasing oil and gas production;

•

general risks related to Vedanta Limited’s commercial power business and challenges in operationalization of investment in aluminium and power business;

•

fluctuations in metal prices on LME, ore prices, oil and gas prices or power prices;

•

fluctuations in currency exchange rates;

•

interruptions in the availability of exploration, production or supply equipment or infrastructure and/or increased costs;

•

construction of pipeline and terminal may take longer than planned, may not work as intended and the cost of construction may be greater than forecast;

•

our actual economically recoverable lead-zinc ore, copper ore or bauxite reserves being lower than we have estimated;

•

our ability to expand our business, effectively manage our growth or implement our strategy;

•

our ability to retain our senior management team and hire and retain sufficiently skilled labor to support our operations;

•

regulatory, legislative and judicial developments and future regulatory actions and conditions in our operating areas;

•

increasing competition in the zinc, oil and gas, iron ore, copper, aluminium or power industries;

•

political or economic instability in and around India or around the regions in which we operate;

•

worldwide economic and business conditions;

•

reliance on third party contractors and providers of equipment which may not be readily available and whose costs may increase;

•

compliance with extensive environmental and health and safety regulations;

•

our ability to successfully consummate strategic acquisitions;

•

our ability to simplify our group structure and reduction in non-controlling stake in group companies;

•

the outcome of outstanding litigation in which we are involved;

•

our ability to maintain good relations with respective local communities and our trade unions and avoid protests, strikes and lock-outs;

•

any actions of our controlling shareholder, Vedanta;

•

the future capital requirements of our business and the availability of financing on favorable terms;

•

the continuation of tax holidays, exemptions and deferred tax schemes we currently enjoy;

•

changes in tariffs, royalties, customs duties and government assistance;

•

terrorist attacks and other acts of violence, natural disasters, increasing impact of climate change and other environmental conditions and outbreaks of infectious diseases and other public health concerns in India, Asia and elsewhere ;

•

failure of digital infrastructure and cyber security attacks due to negligence or IT security failures;

•

our ability to discover new reserves, enhance existing reserves or develop new operations in sufficient quantities to maintain or grow the current level of our reserves; and

•

transitioning of zinc and lead mining operations from open pit to underground mining.

These and other factors are more fully discussed in “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors,” “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and elsewhere in this Annual Report. In light of these and other uncertainties, you should not conclude that we will necessarily achieve any plans, objectives or projected financial results referred to in any of the forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we do not undertake to release revisions to any of these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

PART I

ITEM 1.

IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

Not applicable

ITEM 2.

OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not applicable

ITEM 3.

KEY INFORMATION

A. Selected Consolidated Financial Data

The selected consolidated financial data presented below as of March 31, 2017 and 2018 and for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 has been derived from our consolidated financial statements included herein, which have been prepared in conformity with IFRS as issued by the IASB. The consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2017 and 2018 and for the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2018 have been audited by S.R. Batliboi & Co. LLP, India, our independent registered public accounting firm, and included elsewhere in this Annual Report. The consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2016 and for the year ended March 31, 2016 were audited by Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, India, or Deloitte, our former independent registered public accounting firm.

The selected consolidated financial data presented below as of March 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, and for the years ended March 31, 2014 and 2015 has been derived from our consolidated financial statements, which also have been prepared in conformity with IFRS as issued by the IASB, and which have not been included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

Our historical results do not necessarily indicate our expected results for any future period. The translations of Indian Rupee amounts to US dollars presented in the tables below, are solely for the convenience of the reader and are based on the noon buying rate of ₹ 65.11 per $ 1 in the City of New York for cable transfers of Indian Rupees, respectively, as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on March 31, 2018. No representation is made that the Indian Rupee amounts represent US dollar amounts or have been, could have been or could be converted into US dollars at such rates or at any other rates.

You should read the following information in conjunction with “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report.


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2014			2015			2016			2017			2018			2018
	(₹ in millions except shares and per share data)			(₹ in millions except shares and per share data)			(₹ in millions except shares and per share data)			(₹ in millions except shares and per share data)			(₹ in millions except shares and per share data)			(US Dollar) (in millions except shares and per share data)

Revenue		725,243			733,579			639,493			717,207			913,720			14,033

Cost of sales		(557,900	)		(995,968	)		(875,756	)		(533,989	)		(655,908	)		(10,074	)

Gross profit/(Loss)		167,343			(262,389	)		(236,263	)		183,218			257,812			3,959
Other operating income		4,541			4,802			4,785			5,186			5,373			83
Distribution expenses		(12,127	)		(10,078	)		(12,070	)		(16,361	)		(15,553	)		(239	)
Administration expenses		(32,229	)		(31,550	)		(25,274	)		(19,299	)		(24,101	)		(370	)

Operating profit/(loss)		127,528			(299,215	)		(268,822	)		152,744			223,531			3,433
Investment and other income		42,165			51,154			43,998			45,428			30,986			476
Finance and other costs		(72,821	)		(63,398	)		(59,584	)		(61,600	)		(141,182	)		(2,168	)

Profit/(Loss) before tax		96,872			(311,459	)		(284,408	)		136,572			113,335			1,741
Income tax expense		(34,646	)		108,320			103,060			(38,027	)		(66,426	)		(1,020	)

Profit/(Loss) for the year		62,226			(203,139	)		(181,348	)		98,545			46,909			721
Profit/(Loss) attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent		15,466			(128,350	)		(125,153	)		55,033			13,705			210
Non-controlling interest		46,760			(74,789	)		(56,195	)		43,512			33,204			511

Earnings/(Loss) per share

Basic		5.22			(43.29	)		(42.21	)		18.57			3.69			0.06
Diluted		5.22			(43.29	)		(42.21	)		18.56			3.69			0.06

Weighted average number of equity shares used in computing earnings per share

Basic		2,965,004,871			2,965,004,871			2,965,004,871			2,964,333,584			3,709,778,760			3,709,778,760

Diluted		2,965,004,871			2,965,004,871			2,965,004,871			2,965,560,871			3,717,466,311			3,717,466,311

Dividend declared per share⁽¹⁾^,⁽²⁾

Notes:

(1)

On October 28, 2016 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited declared an interim dividend of ₹ 1.75 per equity share for the year ended March 31, 2017. The dividend amounting to ₹ 5,189 million was subsequently paid before the due date. On March 30, 2017 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited declared an interim dividend of ₹ 17.70 per equity share for the year ended March 31, 2017. The dividend amounting to ₹ 65,800 million was subsequently paid.

On March 13, 2018 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited declared an interim dividend of ₹ 21.20 ($ 0) per equity share for the year ended March 31, 2018. The dividend amounting to ₹ 78,810 million ($ 1,210 million) has been subsequently paid before the due date.

On March 13, 2018 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited declared dividend at the rate of 7.5% per annum on the redeemable preference shares as per their terms of issuance of ₹ 2,090 million ($32 million). These preference shares were issued on April 28, 2017 and dividend is payable uptil the end of fiscal year i.e. March 31, 2018.

(2)	Vedanta Limited declared and paid dividend of ₹ 3.25, ₹ 2.35, ₹ 3.50, ₹ 19.45 and ₹ 21.20 per equity share for the years ended March 31, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively.


	As of March 31,
	2014		2015		2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in millions)		(₹ in millions)		(₹ in millions)		(₹ in millions)		(₹ in millions)		(US dollars in millions)
Consolidated Financial Position Data:
Cash and cash equivalents		12,960		8,621		20,870		97,202		42,192		648
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		2,463		4,090		3,367		11,747		2,483		38
Total assets		2,581,939		2,161,704		1,869,255		1,918,861		1,764,429		27,099
Net assets		1,262,343		1,028,608		776,258		713,788		752,930		11,564
Long-term borrowings		547,375		517,852		493,784		332,654		267,888		4,114
Short-term borrowings		161,728		161,233		182,328		413,126		313,700		4,818
Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent		699,570		561,119		411,160		576,538		595,566		9,147


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2014			2015			2016			2017			2018			2018
	(₹ in millions)			(₹ in millions)			(₹ in millions)			(₹ in millions)			(₹ in millions)			(US dollars in millions)
Cash Flow Data:
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities		56,199			125,710			107,352			212,105			348,407			5,351
Investing activities		(52,631	)		(43,939	)		(42,613	)		(79,910	)		(52,153	)		(801	)
Financing activities		(6,280	)		(86,448	)		(52,714	)		(49,123	)		(357,144	)		(5,485	)
Segment Data:
Revenue from external customers:

Zinc India		131,980			144,127			137,945			169,194			217,101			3,334
Zinc International		40,156			35,886			25,631			22,302			34,458			529
Oil and Gas		187,103			146,945			86,559			82,041			95,359			1,465
Iron Ore		16,516			19,039			22,233			40,880			31,154			478
Copper		205,577			225,198			209,239			210,021			247,008			3,794
Aluminium		107,790			126,900			110,781			136,667			230,959			3,547
Power		35,076			33,906			45,523			55,189			55,012			845
Others		1,045			1,578			1,582			913			2,669			41

Total		725,243			733,579			639,493			717,207			913,720			14,033

Operating profit/(loss):
Zinc India		61,696			62,267			59,412			85,491			110,016			1,690
Zinc International		2,484			4,268			831			7,336			12,321			189
Oil and Gas		53,942			(395,146	)		(342,813	)		14,205			117,865			1,810
Iron Ore		(5,476	)		(3,422	)		(15,793	)		8,403			(49,325	)		(758	)
Copper		8,876			14,344			19,660			15,026			11,312			174
Aluminium		4,979			13,752			1,416			11,725			9,566			147
Power		1,494			4,484			8,221			10,757			11,915			183
Others		(467	)		238			244			(199	)		(139	)		(2	)

Total		127,528			(299,215	)		(268,822	)		152,744			223,531			3,433

Segment profit/(loss)
Zinc India		68,642			70,605			66,970			95,499			122,632			1,884
Zinc International		12,829			11,059			4,561			9,181			14,145			217
Oil and Gas		139,453			88,671			34,273			40,892			54,318			835
Iron Ore		(2,700	)		(891	)		4,367			13,091			3,697			57
Copper		11,429			17,385			22,205			16,964			12,919			198
Aluminium		16,131			22,529			8,467			23,200			29,158			448
Power		7,429			8,424			12,659			16,442			16,688			256
Others		(257	)		532			568			114			553			8

Total		252,956			218,314			154,070			215,383			254,110			3,903

Notes:

(1)

Segment profit is presented as required by IFRS 8 and is calculated by adjusting operating profit to exclude depreciation, amortization and impairment. Our segment profit may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies due to potential inconsistencies in the method of calculation. We have included our segment profit because we believe it is an indicative measure of our operating performance and is used by investors and analysts to evaluate companies in our industry. Our segment profit should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, other measures of financial performance and liquidity reported in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. We believe that the inclusion of supplementary adjustments applied in our presentation of segment profit are appropriate because we believe it is an indicative measure of our baseline performance as it excludes certain charges that our management considers to be outside of our core operating results. In addition, our segment profit is among the primary indicators that our management uses as a basis for planning and forecasting future periods. The following table reconciles operating profit to segment profit for the periods indicated:


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2014			2015			2016			2017			2018			2018
	(₹ in millions)			(₹ in millions)			(₹ in millions)			(₹ in millions)			(₹ in millions)			(US dollars in millions)
Zinc India:

Operating profit		61,696			62,267			59,412			85,491			110,016			1,690

Plus: Depreciation and amortization⁽¹⁾		6,946			8,338			7,558			10,008			12,616			194


Segment profit		68,642			70,605			66,970			95,499			122,632			1,884


Zinc International

Operating profit		2,484			4,268			831			7,336			12,321			189

Plus: Depreciation and amortization⁽²⁾		10,345			6,791			3,730			1,845			1,824			28

Segment profit		12,829			11,059			4,561			9,181			14,145			217


Oil and Gas

Operating profit/(loss)		53,942			(395,146	)		(342,813	)		14,205			117,865			1810

Plus: Depreciation and amortization⁽³⁾		85,511			483,817			377,086			26,687			(63,547	)		(975	)

Segment profit		139,453			88,671			34,273			40,892			54,318			835


Iron Ore

Operating profit/(loss)		(5,476	)		(3,422	)		(15,793	)		8,403			(49,325	)		(758	)

Plus: Depreciation and amortization⁽⁴⁾		2,776			2,531			20,160			4,688			53,022			815

Segment profit/(loss)		(2,700	)		(891	)		4,367			13,091			3,697			57


Copper:

Operating profit		8,876			14,344			19,660			15,026			11,312			174

Plus: Depreciation and amortization⁽⁵⁾		2,553			3,041			2,545			1,938			1,607			24

Segment profit		11,429			17,385			22,205			16,964			12,919			198


Aluminium:

Operating profit/(loss)		4,979			13,752			1,416			11,725			9,566			147

Plus: Depreciation and amortization⁽⁶⁾		11,152			8,777			7,051			11,475			19,592			301

Segment profit		16,131			22,529			8,467			23,200			29,158			448


Power:

Operating profit		1,494			4,484			8,221			10,757			11,915			183

Plus: Depreciation and amortization		5,935			3,940			4,438			5,685			4,773			73

Segment profit		7,429			8,424			12,659			16,442			16,688			256


Others:

Operating profit/(loss)		(467	)		238			244			(199	)		(139	)		(2	)

Plus: Depreciation and amortization		210			294			324			313			692			10

Segment profit/(loss)		(257	)		532			568			114			553			8

(1)	Includes reversal of provision for contribution to District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and gratuity charge due to change in limits of ₹ 2,395 million ($ 37 million) in fiscal year 2018

(2)	Includes impairment charge of ₹ 2,873 million in fiscal year 2014.

(3)	Includes impairment charge of ₹ 406,144 million in fiscal year 2015, ₹ 322,998 million in fiscal year 2016 and includes impairment reversal of ₹ 845 million in fiscal year 2017 and ₹ 93,278 million ($ 1,433 million) in fiscal year 2018.

(4)	Includes impairment charge of ₹ 16,054 million in fiscal year 2016 and ₹ 48,599 million ($ 746 million) in fiscal year 2018.

(5)	Includes impairment charge of ₹ 497 million in fiscal year 2016.

(6)

Includes impairment charge of ₹ 668 million in fiscal year 2014, ₹ 294 million in fiscal year 2015 and ₹ 2,007 million in fiscal year 2017. This also includes reversal of provision for contribution to District Mineral Foundation (DMF), gratuity charge due to change in limits and loss on unusable assets under construction of ₹ 2,774 million ($ 43 million) in fiscal year 2018.

Exchange Rates

Substantially all of our revenue is denominated or paid with reference to US dollars and most of our expenses are incurred and paid in Indian Rupees. We report our financial results in Indian Rupees. The exchange rates among the Indian Rupee and the US dollar have changed substantially in recent years and may fluctuate substantially in the future. The results of our operations are affected as the Indian Rupee appreciate or depreciate against the US dollar and, as a result, any such appreciation or depreciation will likely affect the market price of our ADSs in the United States.

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, information concerning the exchange rates between Indian Rupees and US dollars based on the rates quoted on Federal Reserve Bank of New York:


	Period End⁽¹⁾		Average⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾		High		Low
Fiscal Year:
2014		60.00		60.35		68.80		53.65
2015		62.31		61.11		63.67		58.30
2016		66.25		65.39		68.84		61.99
2017		64.85		67.01		68.86		64.85
2018		65.11		64.46		65.71		63.38
Month:
January 2018		63.58		63.65		64.01		63.38
February 2018		65.20		64.43		65.20		63.93
March 2018		65.11		65.05		65.24		64.83
April 2018		66.50		65.67		66.92		64.92
May 2018		67.40		67.51		68.38		66.52
June 2018		68.46		67.79		68.81		66.87
July 2018 (through July 20, 2018)		68.74		68.68		69.01		68.42

Notes:

(1)	The exchange rates quoted by Federal Reserve Bank of New York at each period end and the average rate for each period may have differed from the exchange rates used in the preparation of financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

(2)	Represents the average of the exchange rates quoted on Federal Reserve Bank of New York for all days during the period for all fiscal years presented and the average of the exchange rates quoted on Federal Reserve Bank of New York for all days during the period for all months presented.

Although we have translated selected Indian Rupee amounts in this Annual Report into US dollars for convenience, this does not mean, and no representation is made, that the Indian Rupee represent US dollar amounts or have been, could have been or could be converted to US dollars at any particular rate, the rates stated above, or at all. Unless otherwise stated herein, all translations in this Annual Report from Indian Rupees to US dollars are based on the exchange rate quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on March 31, 2018, which was ₹ 65.11 per $ 1. As of July 20, 2018, the exchange rate between US dollars and Indian Rupees was $ 1 = ₹ 68.74 as quoted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

Not applicable

C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

Not applicable

D. Risk Factors

This Annual Report contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described in the following risk factors and elsewhere in this Annual Report. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could suffer and the trading price of our equity shares and ADSs could decline.

Risks Relating to Our Business

Our operations are subject to governmental, health and safety and environmental regulations, which require us to obtain and comply with the terms of various approvals, licenses and permits. Any failure to obtain, renew or comply with the terms of such approvals, licenses and permits in a timely manner may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations

Numerous governmental permits, approvals and licenses are required for our operations as the industries in which we operate and seek to operate are subject to numerous laws and extensive regulation by national, state and local authorities in jurisdictions including India, South Africa, Namibia, U.A.E, Ireland, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Liberia and any other jurisdictions where we may operate in future. Our operations are also subject to laws, regulations and standards relating to employment, the protection of health and safety of employees as well as the environment, including conservation and climate change. Evolving regulations, standards and stakeholder expectations could result in increased cost, litigation or threaten the viability of operations in extreme cases. For instance, we are required to obtain various environmental and labor-related approvals in connection with our operations in India, including clearances from the Ministry of Environment and Forests (“MoEF”), GoI and from the relevant pollution control boards in various states in India in which we operate in order to establish and operate our facilities. Certain of such approvals are valid for certain specified periods of time and require periodic renewals, such as consents to operate under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, as amended, and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 from the relevant Pollution Control Boards, which are generally granted for a period of one year.

Further, our oil and gas, exploration and mining activities depend on the grant or renewal of various exploration and mining licenses and production sharing contracts and other regulatory approvals that are valid for a specific period of time. In addition, such licenses and contracts contain various obligations and restrictions, including restrictions on assignment or any other form of transfer of a mining lease or on the employment of a person who is not an Indian national. For instance, in connection with our mining operations in India, mining leases are typically granted for a period of 20 to 30 years and stipulate conditions including approved limits on extraction. Similarly, in connection with our oil and gas operations in India, Cairn is required to enter into a production sharing contract and obtain an exploration license, which typically extends to 7 or 8 years following the award of a block before it can commence exploration activities and if exploration is successful, Cairn is then required to procure a petroleum mining lease from the relevant government authority which typically extends for 20 years in order to conduct extraction operations for oil and gas.

Our current oil and gas reserves and production are significantly dependent on the Rajasthan block in India. The current production sharing contract for the block is valid until May 2020. If the production sharing contract does not get extended or gets extended on unfavorable terms, for example, if the GoI seeks a higher profit share, or the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (“ONGC”) seeks higher entitlement in the Rajasthan block, this could result in a substantial loss of value and could have a material and adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. On April 7, 2017, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued a policy for the grant of extension to the production sharing contracts signed by the GoI awarding Pre-New Exploration Licensing Policy (“Pre-NELP”) Exploration Blocks (“Pre-NELP Extension Policy”). The Pre-NELP Extension Policy defines the framework for granting of extension for Pre-NELP blocks including the Rajasthan and Cambay fields. Under the Pre-NELP Extension Policy, the Government’s share of profit petroleum during the extended period of contracts would be at higher rates for the applicable fields. See “Item 8. Financial Information— A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information— Legal Proceedings.” for further details. Furthermore, under the terms of the production sharing contracts, we are obliged to sell our entitlement to crude oil in the domestic Indian market until such time as the total availability of the crude oil and condensate from all domestic petroleum production activities meets the total national demand and India achieves self-sufficiency. There is currently a mismatch between the demand and the supply for crude oil in India, with the demand outweighing the domestic production of crude oil, and this mismatch is expected to continue in the long term. Further, to the extent our Indian blocks yield crude oil that is not suitable for processing by refineries in India, it may be difficult for us to monetize such domestic crude oil reserves and this could have a material adverse effect on our oil and gas business, financial condition and results of operations.

Government approval is also required, generally, for the continuation of mining as well as oil and gas exploration and production activities in India and other jurisdictions, and such approval can be revoked for a variety of circumstances by the GoI, Indian courts or other authorities. Any general suspension of mining activities by the government of a jurisdiction containing our mining operations could have the effect of closing or limiting production from our operations. For example, our total iron ore production declined from 13.8 mmt in fiscal year 2012 to 0.6 mmt in fiscal year 2015 due to the suspension imposed by the state government of Goa on the mining activities in the state of Goa. The suspension orders were withdrawn by the state government in 2015 and operations were recommenced in January 2015. The Supreme Court passed its final order in the matter on February 7, 2018 wherein it set aside the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the state of Goa. The Supreme Court directed all lease holders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (“MMDR”) Act. Our mines in the state of Goa were impacted consequent to the judgement of the Supreme Court.

The state government of Goa had appointed an independent firm in August 2014 to undertake an audit of production levels in excess of environmental clearances of all mining companies operating in the state of Goa, including our Company for the period from fiscal year 2008 to fiscal year 2013. The independent firm submitted its final report to the state Directorate of Mines and Geology (“DMG”) on May 5, 2015. Observations raised by the audit with respect to our Company included production levels to be in excess of environmental clearances for the leases of the Company and whether the royalty can be payable on a dry metric ton (“DMT”) basis instead of wet metric ton (“WMT”) basis. The audit process was based on the formats and procedures specified by DMG and the report was submitted accordingly. The Company has refuted these observations and provided its responses to these observations to the firm based upon a legal opinion of our Indian counsel, and these responses have been filed in the audit report of the Independent firm to the state DMG. In doing so, the Company has reserved its rights without prejudice to its responses and requested an opportunity to furnish further documentation and information as may be appropriate before any further steps in this regard are taken by the state government. We received a show cause notice from DMG on August 5, 2016 to which we filed a reply on November 24, 2016. Hearings before the DMG has been concluded and we have filed our written submissions. If the Company is subject to any subsequent action based upon the recommendations of the audit report, we could be subject to significantly higher royalty payments and / or other penalties. Such an outcome or any other adverse outcome could result in a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Our global presence exposes us to a number of jurisdictions in which regulations or laws have been or are being considered to limit or reduce emissions. The likely effect of these changes will be to increase the cost for fossil fuels, impose levies for emissions in excess of certain permitted levels and increased administrative costs for monitoring and reporting. Increasing regulation of greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions, including the progressive introduction of carbon emissions trading mechanisms and tighter emission reduction targets, is likely to raise costs and reduce demand growth. These regulations in the jurisdictions of our major customers and in relation to international shipping could also have an adverse effect on the demand for our products. Our smelting and mineral processing operations are energy intensive and depend heavily on fossil fuels. Increasing regulation of climate change issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, including the progressive introduction of carbon emissions trading mechanisms and tighter emission reduction targets, may raise energy costs and costs of production over the coming years. Any failure to comply with applicable laws, regulations or recognized international standards, or to obtain or renew the necessary permits, approvals and licenses may result in the loss of the right to operate our facilities or continue our operations, the imposition of significant administrative liabilities, or costly compliance procedures, or other enforcement measures that could have the effect of closing or limiting production from our operations. If we were to fail to meet environmental requirements or to have a major accident or disaster, we may also be subject to administrative, civil and criminal proceedings by governmental authorities, as well as civil proceedings by environmental groups and other individuals, which could result in substantial fines, penalties and damages against us, as well as subject to orders that could limit or halt or even cause closure of our operations, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

For example, in March 2013, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (“TNPCB”) ordered the closure of the copper smelter at Tuticorin due to complaints regarding a noxious gas leak by local residents. The National Green Tribunal thereafter passed an interim order in May 2013 allowing the copper smelter to recommence operations subject to certain conditions, and we recommenced operations in June 2013. However, the TNPCB filed a notice of appeal against the orders of the National Green Tribunal, which is currently pending before the Green bench of the Supreme Court of India. In addition, the expansion of the alumina refinery at Lanjigarh has been on hold since October 2010 because the environmental approval has been withheld by the MoEF. On November 20, 2015, the MoEF granted environmental clearance for the expansion of the Alumina Refinery up to 4 mtpa and environmental clearance up to 6 mtpa will be received as an amendment to existing EC after the completion of the land acquisition of the balance area of 666.03 HA. Further, consent to establish for 4 mtpa and consent to operate 2 mtpa has also been obtained. However the environmental clearance for the expansion of Alumina Refinery at Lanjigarh was challenged by an individual Prafulla Samantra before the National Green Tribunal, wherein MoEF, Odisha State Pollution Control Board and Vedanta Limited have been made parties. We filed our response to challenge and the matter is yet to be heard. In addition, another individual has filed an interlocutory application to be impleaded in the matter before National Green Tribunal, Kolkata, which will be heard with the matter discussed above. See “Item 8. Financial Information— A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information— Legal Proceedings.” for further details.

The TNPCB through its order dated April 9, 2018 rejected the Company’s application for renewal of consent to operate the 400,000 tpa copper smelter plant in Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu, India and operations at the plant have been suspended. The Company has filed an appeal with the TNPCB Appellate authority. During the pendency of the appeal, TNPCB through its order dated May 23, 2018 ordered for electricity supply to the plant to be discontinued and the State Government ordered the closure of the copper smelter plant. Separately, SIPCOT vide its letter dated May 29, 2018, cancelled 342.22 acres of the land allotted to us for the proposed Expansion Project. Further the TNPCB issued orders on June 7, 2018 directing the withdrawal of the Consent to Establish, which was valid till December 31, 2022.

Any prolonged closure of our operations could have a material adverse effect on our businesses, results of operations, financial condition or prospects or may result in the recognition of an impairment of our assets.

We are exposed to the political, economic, legal, regulatory and social risks of the countries in which we operate

We are exposed to the political, economic, legal, regulatory and social risks of the countries in which we operate or intend to operate. These risks potentially include expropriation and nationalization of property, instability in political, economic or financial systems, uncertainty arising from underdeveloped legal and regulatory systems, corruption, civil strife or labor unrest, acts of war, armed conflict, terrorism, outbreaks of infectious diseases, prohibitions, limitations or price controls on hydrocarbon exports and limitations or the imposition of tariffs or duties on imports of certain goods. Countries in which we have operations or intend to have operations have transportation, telecommunications and financial services infrastructures that may present logistical challenges not associated with doing business in more developed locales. Furthermore, we may have difficulty in ascertaining our legal obligations and enforcing any rights that we may have.

For example, under the terms of the shareholders’ agreement between the GoI and us, we were granted two call options to acquire all the shares in HZL held by the GoI at the time of exercise. We exercised the first call option on August 29, 2003. The GoI has disputed and refused to act upon the second call option. Also, GoI has disputed our exercise of the call option to purchase the remaining ownership interest of the GoI in BALCO. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Business—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO.”

Further, during fiscal year 2015, the Board of Directors was made aware that charges have been filed against several persons unconnected with the Group and one employee of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business who was previously arrested and subsequently released, for alleged possession and access to government information. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business has not been named in the charges. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business has in place a comprehensive compliance program and controls. Further, on an annual basis all directors and employees including senior management of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business provide affirmation of compliance of the code of business ethics adopted by the Company. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business also regularly undertakes review of its controls.

Political, legal, economic and commercial instability or community disputes in the countries and territories in which we operate could affect our operations. Some of our current and potential operations are located in or near communities that may regard such operations as having a detrimental effect on their environmental, economic or social circumstances.

The continued success of our existing operations and future projects are in part dependent upon maintaining broad support and a healthy relationship with the respective local communities. Failure to identify and manage local concerns and expectations can give rise to disputes or have a negative impact on relations with local communities, and therefore affect our business and reputation.

For example, we had filed an application on January 31, 2018 with TNPCB to renew our consent to operate, for our existing 400,000 tpa copper smelter plant at Tuticorin, which was due to expire on March 31, 2018. The TNPCB rejected the said renewal application by its order dated April 9, 2018. We have filed an appeal before the TNPCB Appellate Authority challenging this order. See “Item 8. Financial Information— A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information— Legal Proceedings.” for further details.

Any such disputes or issues could have a material adverse impact on our cost, profitability, and ability to finance our operations. Such events could lead to disputes with national or local governments or with local communities and give rise to negative publicity. If our operations are delayed or shut down as a result of political and community instability, our revenue growth may be constrained and the long-term value of our business could be adversely impacted. Once we establish operations in a particular country, it may be expensive and logistically difficult to discontinue such operations should economic, political, physical or other conditions deteriorate subsequently. All of these factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects.

Material changes in the regulations that govern our businesses, or the interpretation of recent legislation, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and result of operations

Mining in India is subject to a complex and comprehensive set of laws and regulatory requirements. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Regulatory Matters — Mining Laws.” These laws and regulatory requirements are subject to change. If we are affected, directly or indirectly, by the application or interpretation of any such statute, enforcement proceedings initiated under it, it may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and result of operations.

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulations) Amendment Act, 2015 (“MMDRA Amendment Act”), notified towards the end of fiscal year 2015, brings greater transparency in the granting of mineral concessions through an e-auction process. It also removes certain uncertainties relating to automatic renewals of mine leases for future periods. However for existing mining leases, the MMDRA Amendment Act notifies an amount not exceeding royalty, to be contributed to the District Mineral Foundation (“DMF”) for the benefit of people affected by mining and an additional 2% of royalties to the National Mineral Exploration Trust. In September 2015, the GoI notified that an amount equal to 30% of royalty fees is required to be contributed to the DMF for the benefit of the people in the area affected by mining.

In addition, our oil and gas business is also subject to complex and comprehensive regulations in India and South Africa. For example, upon the expiry of oil and gas licenses in India, contractors are generally required under the terms of relevant licenses or local law to conduct decommissioning or abandonment activities with regard to the equipment, and wells and generally make good production sites. There can be no assurance that we will not in the future incur decommissioning charges in excess of those currently provided for, since local or national governments may require decommissioning to be carried out in circumstances where there is no express obligation to do so, particularly in case of future oil and gas license renewals.

The provisions of Chapter X-A (sections 95 to 102) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, relating to General Anti-Avoidance Rules (“GAAR”) are applicable with effect from assessment year 2019 (fiscal year 2018). The GAAR provisions propose to identify any arrangement with the primary purpose or one of the main purposes of such arrangement is to obtain a tax benefit, and satisfies at least one of the following tests (i) creates rights, or obligations, which are not ordinarily created between persons dealing at arm’s length; (ii) results, directly or indirectly, in misuse, or abuse, of the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961; (iii) lacks commercial substance or is deemed to lack commercial substance in whole or in part; or (iv) is entered into, or carried out, by means, or in a manner, that is not ordinarily engaged for bona fide purposes. If GAAR provisions are invoked, the tax authorities will have wider powers, including denial of tax benefit or a benefit under a tax treaty. In the absence of any precedents on the subject, the impact of the application of these provisions is uncertain.

The costs, liabilities and requirements associated with complying with existing and future laws and regulations may also be substantial and time-consuming and may delay the commencement or continuation of oil and gas exploration or metal mining and production activities. This and any changes to the regulations could require changes to the manner in which we conduct our business and result in an increase in compliance costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We have significant asset concentration risks, and any interruption in the operations at those assets could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations

Our results of operations have been and are expected to continue to be substantially dependent on the reserves, production and the cost of production at certain of our key assets, and any interruption in the operations, exploration and development activities at those assets for any reason could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

For example, the Rajasthan block produced 85.1% of our average daily net operated production from our oil and gas business in fiscal year 2018 and oil and gas from the Rajasthan block constituted 90.9% of our net aggregate proved oil and gas reserves on a barrel of oil equivalent basis as of March 31, 2018. Our ongoing capital expenditure program has focused on development and exploration activities across all the assets with approximately 74.0% of the capital expenditure for fiscal year 2018 having been invested in the Rajasthan block.

Further, our Rampura Agucha zinc mine produced 55.6% of the total mined zinc metal in concentrate that we produced in fiscal year 2018 and constituted 43.5% of our total proven and probable zinc ore reserves as of March 31, 2018 in India. Any interruption in the operations at these assets could have a material adverse effect on our results of business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

Our business requires substantial capital expenditures and other resources to maintain ongoing operations and to grow our business through projects, expansions and acquisitions, which projects, expansions and acquisitions are subject to additional risks that could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations

Capital requirements. We require capital for, among other purposes, expanding our operations, making acquisitions, managing acquired assets, acquiring new equipment, maintaining the condition of our existing equipment and maintaining compliance with environmental laws and regulations. To the extent that cash generated internally and cash available under our existing credit facilities are not sufficient to fund our capital requirements, we will require additional debt or equity financing, which may not be available on favorable terms, or at all. Future debt financing, if available, may result in increased finance charges, increased financial leverage, and decreased income available to fund further acquisitions and expansions and the imposition of restrictive covenants on our business and operations. In addition, future debt financing may limit our ability to withstand competitive pressures and render us more vulnerable to economic downturns. If we fail to generate or obtain sufficient additional capital in the future, we could be forced to reduce or delay capital expenditures, sell assets or restructure or refinance our indebtedness.

Oil and gas exploration activities are capital intensive and inherently uncertain in their outcome. We or the operators of assets in which we have an interest may undertake exploration activities and incur significant costs in so doing with no assurance that such expenditure will result in the discovery of hydrocarbons in commercially viable quantities.

In addition, there can be no assurance that our planned or any proposed future expansions and projects will be completed on time or within budget, which may adversely affect our cash flow.

Demands on management. Our efforts to continue our growth will place significant demands on our management and other resources and we will be required to continue to improve operational, financial and other internal controls, both in India and elsewhere. Our ability to maintain and grow our existing business and integrate new businesses will depend on our ability to maintain the necessary management resources and on our ability to attract, train and retain personnel with skills that enable us to keep pace with growing demands and evolving industry standards.

Acquisition risks. As part of our growth strategy, we intend to continue to pursue acquisitions to expand our business. There can be no assurance that we will be able to identify suitable acquisition, strategic investment or joint venture opportunities, obtain the financing necessary to complete and support such acquisitions or investments, integrate such businesses or investments, satisfy regulatory requirements for such acquisitions or that any business acquired will be profitable. If we attempt to acquire non-Indian companies, we may not be able to satisfy certain Indian regulatory requirements for such acquisitions and may need to obtain the prior approval of the RBI which we may not be able to obtain. The funding of such acquisitions by us may require certain approvals from regulatory authorities in India. In addition, acquisitions and investments involve a number of risks, including possible adverse effects on our operating results, diversion of management’s attention, failure to retain key personnel, risks associated with unanticipated events or liabilities and difficulties in the assimilation of the operations, technologies, systems, services and products of the acquired businesses or investments. Any failure to achieve successful integration of such acquisitions or investments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

If our planned expansions and new projects are delayed, or if we experience cost overruns in our projects, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected

We have in recent years initiated significant expansion plans for our existing operations and planned greenfield projects, which involve significant capital expenditure. The timing, implementation and cost of such expansion are subject to a number of risks, including the failure to obtain necessary leases, licenses, permits, consents and approvals, or funding for the expansion. We do not currently have all of the leases, licenses, permits, consents and approvals that are or will be required for our planned expansion and new projects. There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain or renew all necessary leases, licenses, permits, consents and approvals in a timely manner.

For example, a writ petition was filed at the High Court of Madras challenging the grant of an environmental clearance for the expansion of our copper smelting unit at Tuticorin, which was dismissed by the High Court of Madras through its order dated April 28, 2016. Further, the expansion of our alumina refinery at Lanjigarh has been on hold since October 2010 because the environmental approval was rendered non-operational by the MoEF. On November 20, 2015, the MoEF granted environmental clearance for the expansion of the Alumina Refinery for up to 4 mtpa and EC up to 6 mtpa will be received as an amendment to existing EC after the completion of the land acquisition of the balance area of 666.03 HA. Further, consent to establish for 4 mtpa and consent to operate 2 mtpa has also been obtained. However the environmental clearance for the expansion of the Alumina Refinery at Lanjigarh was challenged by an individual, Prafulla Samantra, before the National Green Tribunal, where the MoEF, the Odisha State Pollution Control Board and Vedanta Limited have been made parties. We filed our response to challenge and the matter is yet to be heard. In addition, another individual has filed an interlocutory application to be impleaded in the matter before National Green Tribunal, Kolkata, which will be heard with the matter described above. See “Item 8. Financial Information— A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information— Legal Proceedings.” for further details.

Moreover, we are currently undertaking exploration programs in our Rajasthan and other oil blocks and any delays in this exploration program or shortfall in achieving the necessary output levels could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In fiscal year 2013, we announced an expansion of our zinc-lead mines capacity to 1.2 mtpa in a phased manner until fiscal year 2019 in our Zinc India business. This will involve sinking of underground shafts and developing underground mines. Benefits from these growth projects started in fiscal year 2016, even though project activities will continue until fiscal year 2019. Annual capital expenditure towards these projects is expected to be approximately $ 250 million. Any delays in the execution of the expansion plans or any shortfall in achievement of the expansion objectives may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Any delay in completing planned expansions, revocation of existing clearances, failure to obtain or renew regulatory approvals, non-compliance with applicable regulations or conditions stipulated in the approvals obtained, suspension of current projects, or cost overruns or operational difficulties once the projects are commissioned may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition. Further, our decision to undertake or continue any of these projects will be based on assumptions of future demand for our products which may not materialize. As a consequence of project delays, cost overruns, changes in demand for our products and other reasons, we may not achieve the reductions in the cost of production or other economic benefits expected from these projects, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

If we are unable to secure additional reserves of oil and gas, zinc, copper, iron ore and bauxite that can be extracted at competitive costs or cannot extract existing reserves at competitive costs, our profitability and operating margins could decline

If our existing oil and gas, zinc, copper, iron ore and bauxite reserves cannot be extracted at competitive costs or if we cannot secure additional reserves that can be extracted at competitive costs, we may become more dependent upon third parties for the metal ore, or our production volumes will decline. As our reserves decline as we extract the mineral ore or crude oil, our future profitability and operating margins depend upon our ability to access reserves that have geological characteristics enabling extraction at competitive costs. Replacement reserves may not be available when required or, if available, may not be of a quality capable of being extracted at costs comparable to the existing or exhausted mines and fields.

We may not be able to accurately assess the geological characteristics of any reserves that we acquire, which may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operation. Because the value of reserves is calculated based on that part of our mineral and oil and gas deposits that are economically and legally exploitable at the time of the reserve calculation, a decrease in commodity prices may result in a reduction in the value of any reserves that we obtain as less of the deposits contained therein would be economically exploitable at lower prices. For example, during fiscal year 2016, we recorded impairment charge on oil and gas assets of ₹ 322,998 million primarily relating to the Rajasthan block, triggered by the significant fall in crude oil prices. Similarly, with a substantial reduction in iron ore prices we recorded an impairment of ₹ 14,900 million in fiscal year 2016 for our Liberia assets.

Exhaustion of reserves at particular mines or oil fields may also have an adverse effect on our operating results that is disproportionate to the percentage of overall production represented by such mines or oil fields. Further, with depletion of reserves we will face higher unit extraction costs.

Our future production depends significantly upon our success in finding or acquiring and developing additional reserves, adopting and using the appropriate technology. If we are unsuccessful, we may not meet our production targets, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our ability to obtain additional reserves in the future could be limited by restrictions under our existing or future debt agreements, competition from other metal and oil and gas companies, lack of suitable acquisition candidates, government regulatory and licensing restrictions, difficulties in obtaining mining leases and surface rights or the inability to acquire such properties on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. To increase production from our existing mines or oil fields, we must apply for governmental and joint operation partner approvals, which we may not be able to obtain in a timely manner, or at all.

The results of appraising discoveries are uncertain, more so in our oil and gas business, which may result in reductions in projected reserves and production declines and may involve unprofitable efforts, not only from dry wells, but also from wells that are productive but uneconomic to develop. Appraisal and development activities may be subject to delays in obtaining governmental approvals or consents, shut-ins of connected wells, insufficient storage or transportation capacity or exhaustion and depletion of reserves or other geological and mechanical conditions all of which may result in a material increase of our costs of operations or delay anticipated revenues.

Our operations are subject to risks that could result in decreased production, increased cost of production and increased cost of or disruptions in transportation, power generation, mining and oil exploration

We are subject to operating conditions and events beyond our control that could, among other things, increase our mining, transportation or production costs, disrupt or halt operations at our mines and production facilities permanently or for varying lengths of time or interrupt the delivery of our products to our customers. The occurrence of any of these conditions or events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. These conditions and events include:

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Disruptions in extraction and production due to equipment failures, unexpected maintenance problems and other interruptions. All of our operations are vulnerable to disruptions. In particular, our aluminium smelters are vulnerable to disruptions in the supply of power which, even if lasting only a few hours, can cause the contents of the furnaces or cells to solidify, which would necessitate a plant closure and a shutdown in operations for a significant period, as well as involve expensive repairs. The losses from these interruptions include lost production, repair costs and other expenses. For example, in September 2016, 168 pots out of 336 pots were taken out of production at BALCO, due to a pot failure incident, although all pots became fully operational by the end of March 2017. Similarly, the Jharsuguda-I smelter suffered a pot outage incident in April 2017, whereby 228 pots out of the total 608 pots were taken out of production. The impacted pots were repaired and are fully operational in fiscal year 2018.

Further, our oil processing facility in the northern fields of the Rajasthan block designed to separate oil, gas and water may not function as designed over the life of the fields. This may result in the crude oil not meeting sales specifications of pipelines, which may mean that any such crude oil either cannot be sold or will be sold at a significant discount to the agreed crude oil sales price.

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Availability of raw materials. Any shortage of or increase in the prices of any of the raw materials needed to satisfy our businesses’ requirements may interrupt our operations or increase our cost of production. We are particularly dependent on coal, which is used in many of our captive power plants. Our aluminium business, which has high energy consumption due to the energy-intensive nature of aluminium smelting, is significantly dependent on receiving allocations from Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries.

We established our aluminium business in Odisha through an agreement with Odisha Mining Corporation Limited (“OMC”) to establish an aluminium smelter and associated captive power plants in the Lanjigarh and Jharsuguda district in Odisha. A memorandum of understanding with the Government of Odisha (through OMC) provides that the Government of Odisha would supply us 150 million tons of bauxite ore. During fiscal year 2016, OMC has, by a separate action, terminated the joint venture agreement for which the Company is pursuing the appropriate course of action. The matter is pending with the OMC. However, the delay in obtaining captive bauxite supply as per the terms of memorandum of understanding has resulted in our Odisha aluminium business reporting losses since inception. Any further delays in securing assured bauxite supplies for our Odisha aluminium business could continue to adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. However, in April 2018, we entered in to a long term contract with OMC for the supply of bauxite for five years from its Kodingamali bauxite mines.

Further, we may not receive the coal block allocations that we expect or may not be allowed to use such allocations for our commercial power generation business. Any coal block allocations that we receive may not be sufficient for our planned operations and we may not be successful in procuring a sufficient supply of coal at economically attractive prices, or at all. Additionally, we are subject to certain restrictive covenants contained in the coal block allocation agreements including specified end use and submission of mining plans within a specified period.

Our oil processing facility in the northern fields of the Rajasthan block require reliable fuel supply for power generation and heating, to ensure the quality of our crude oil production. Currently, the fuel supply for power generation and heating requirements are being met through associated natural gas from the Mangala field, supplemented as required by natural gas from the Raageshwari Deep gas field. While the current gas supply is adequate to ensure a sufficient fuel supply, there is no guarantee that the current estimates of the future fuel requirements can be supplied from the gas associated with existing and future oil production, supplemented by gas supply from the Raageshwari Deep gas field. In such an event, an alternative energy source would need to be obtained.

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Availability of water. The mining operations of our zinc and aluminium businesses, production from our oil fields, smelter operations of copper business and our captive power plants depend upon the supply of a significant amount of water. Availability of water for our operations is dependent upon adequate rainfall in the catchment areas near our operations. There is no assurance that the water required will continue to be available in sufficient quantities or that the cost of water will not increase. For example, BALCO is currently in a dispute with the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited regarding the right of way for a water pipeline that provides one of BALCO’s captive power plants access to a body of water adjacent to the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited’s premises. An unfavorable decision in this dispute may significantly increase BALCO’s costs of obtaining water for our power plant. However, the Company has a water supply agreement valid for 30 years from July 29, 2011 for 13 million cubic meters for 540 MW and on December 22, 2015 the Company entered into a new water contract valid for 30 years with a local body for 28 million cubic meters per annum for IPP of 600 MW and CPP of 600 MW collectively, which has been fully allotted until March 31, 2018.

We inject hot water to maintain reservoir pressure and to optimize crude oil recovery at our oil fields. The source water for these fields is, and will continue to be provided from water production wells drilled in the Thumbli saline aquifer in the Barmer Basin. Extraction of saline water also requires the approval of the relevant government authorities. There can be no assurance that the estimated impact of the expected water extraction on the flow of groundwater is accurate. A failure to extract the required amount of water during the life of the existing and currently planned developments or an inaccurate prediction of the impact on the flow of groundwater, or delay or cancellation of the approval from the government authorities to extract saline water, may require us to access alternative sources of water. Although the relevant government authority has given its consent for the extraction of saline groundwater from Thumbli, it is possible that we will be perceived to be directly or indirectly responsible for any shortage of fresh water or deterioration in water quality. In such an event, the local authorities may require us to access alternative water sources or holding us responsible for any contamination of the fresh water supply by saline groundwater from the aquifer.

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Disruptions to or increased costs of transport services. We depend upon seaborne freight, inland water transport, rail, trucking, overland conveyor and other systems to transport bauxite, alumina, zinc concentrate, copper concentrate, coal and other supplies to our operations and to deliver our products to customers. There may be disruptions to or increases in the cost of these transport services, including as a result of interruptions that decrease the availability of these transport services or as a result of increases in demand for transport services from our competitors or from other businesses, or failures of these transport services to be expanded in a timely manner to support an expansion of our operations.

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Inadequate plant operating and maintenance procedures. We have in place operating and maintenance procedures to maintain the integrity of our production facilities. However, there is a risk of unplanned events, inadequate application of these procedures or higher levels of corrosion than expected which could cause disruption to production.

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Dependence on third parties. We depend on third parties for the construction, delivery and commissioning of the power facilities, supply and testing of equipment and transmission and distribution of electricity that we generate, which is beyond our control. Several of the major growth projects are under execution through an integrated development approach where end to end project execution is outsourced to a limited number of specialized vendors. These projects have long execution timelines, have interdependencies, are mostly brown-field involving tie-ins with existing facilities and may require use of the appropriate technologies. To execute these projects, our business partners are responsible for the adequacy and timeliness of the resources they deploy and capabilities they bring to a project. In such arrangements, we may have limited control over the standards, operations and compliance of our business partners, their contractors and sub-contractors and thereby have limited influence and control over the risks arising out of such project execution. Ensuring the delivery of services and equipment, executing the projects as per schedule, of the right quality and managing safety and security of personnel and materials at the sites as well as during transportation, and ensuring all regulatory compliances are met, could pose a potential challenge. Any delays in any of these aspects could have an adverse impact on project completion by way of cost and schedule overruns and or our operational and financial performance. Further, our business partners may be unable or unwilling to fully compensate us against costs we may incur on their behalf or on behalf of the joint venture. For instance, the external contractors may not be able to complete construction and installation on time, within budget, or to the specifications set forth in our contracts with them, or the contractors may otherwise cause delays in meeting project milestones or achieving commercial operation by the scheduled completion date, which could in turn cause forecast budgets to be exceeded or result in delayed payment by customers, invoke liquidated damages, penalty clauses or performance guarantees or result in termination of contracts. See “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings- Proceedings against TSPL relating to its delay in commissioning various units of the power plant.” In addition, the demand for contractors with specialist design, engineering and project management skills and services has increased, resulting in a shortage of contractors and increasing costs of services. There can be no assurance that such skilled and experienced contractors will continue to be available at reasonable rates and we may be exposed to risks relating to the cost and quality of their services, equipment and supplies.

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Power purchase agreements. The power purchase agreements and other agreements that we have entered into, or may enter into may require us to guarantee certain minimum performance standards, such as plant availability and generation capacity, to the power purchasers. If our facilities do not meet the required performance standards, the power purchasers with whom we have power purchase agreements may not reimburse us for any increased costs arising as a result of our plants’ failure to operate within the agreed norms.

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Power transmission. Lack of strong power transmission infrastructure could restrict our power generation volumes. For example, the effective plant load factor for all the four units of our commercial power plant at Jharsuguda was constrained at 39% in fiscal year 2015 on account of the limited power transmission infrastructure available in India and the delay in ramp up of Smelter II.

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Regulatory compliance. Power generation in India is a regulated industry. In particular, national and state regulatory bodies and other statutory and government mandated authorities may, from time to time, impose minimum performance standards upon us. Failure to meet these requirements could expose us to the risk of penalties, including, in certain instances, plant shut downs.

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Flow assurance concerns of crude oil. The waxy nature of crude oil at the northern fields of the Rajasthan block requires us to use hot water injection as the recovery technique at these fields. Injection of hot water requires that the temperature of the water is maintained at a certain level to ensure that the temperature of the crude oil is not reduced by the water used in the injection process to the point where solidification may occur. If the temperature of the injection water is not maintained at the required level, the required injection rate may not be able to be maintained, therefore the overall field production rate and ultimate recovery may be adversely impacted. Further, the waxy nature of crude oil requires that the temperature of crude oil transported through the 24 inch insulated oil pipeline and connecting spur lines should be kept at a temperature greater than the temperature of crude oil. Maintaining the temperature of the crude oil above this wax appearance temperature has required the installation of a specialized heating system and heating stations at various points along the pipeline. If the specialized heating system does not perform as expected, or there are problems associated with the performance of the heating stations, there are problems supplying fuel to the power generation systems at these heating stations; the temperature of crude oil may not be maintained, which would have an adverse impact on the rate at which oil can be transported through the pipeline. Any reduction in the crude oil production, ultimate recovery, or in the oil transportation may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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Tailings dam failure. A release of waste material from tailings dams of any of our production facilities may lead to loss of life, injuries, environmental damage, reputational damage, financial costs and production impacts. Tailings dam failure is considered to be a catastrophic risk, which is a very high severity but very low frequency event that must be treated with the highest priority.

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Accidents at mines, oil fields, smelters, refineries, oil processing terminals, cargo terminals and related facilities. Any accidents or explosions causing personal injury, property damage or environmental damage at or to our mines, oil fields, smelters, refineries, oil processing terminals, cargo terminals and related facilities may result in expensive litigation, imposition of penalties and sanctions or suspension or revocation of permits and licenses. Risks associated with our open-pit mining operations include flooding of the open-pit and collapses of the open-pit wall. Risks associated with our underground mining operations include underground fires and explosions (including those caused by flammable gas), cave-ins or ground falls, discharges of gases or toxic chemicals, flooding, sinkhole formation and ground subsidence. Injuries to and deaths of workers at our mines and facilities have occurred in the past and may occur in the future. For example, the production of Skorpion Zinc was stopped for 23 days in January 2015 due to a fire accident in the cell house. We are required by law to compensate employees for work-related injuries and failure to make adequate provisions for our workers’ compensation liabilities could harm our future operating results.

Furthermore, oil and gas exploration and production operations by us or operators of assets in which we have an interest will involve risks normally incidental to such activities, including blowouts, oil spills, gas leaks, explosions, fires, equipment damage or failure, natural disasters, geological uncertainties, unusual or unexpected rock formations and abnormal pressures. Offshore operations are also subject to natural disasters as well as to hazards inherent in marine operations and damage to pipelines, platforms, facilities and sub-sea facilities from trawlers, anchors and vessels. Our producing fields are located in areas that can be subject to extreme weather conditions, flooding, fire, theft, earthquake and other natural disasters. Additionally, we or the operators of assets in which we have an interest may face interruptions or delays in the availability of oil field services, equipment or infrastructure, including seismic survey vessels, rigs, pipelines and storage tanks, on which oil and gas exploration and production activities are dependent.

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Strikes and industrial actions or disputes. The majority of the total workforce of our consolidated group of companies is unionized. Strikes and industrial actions or disputes have in the past and may in the future lead to business interruptions and halts in production. In addition, we may be subject to union demands and litigation for pay raises and increased benefits, and our existing arrangements with the trade unions may not be renewed on terms favorable to us, or at all. For example, Sesa Mining Corporation Limited, a subsidiary of the Company, had suspended the work at Bicholim mines from October 13, 2016 to November 17, 2016 due to union agitation and activism.

We are exposed to competitive pressures in our various business segments in which we operate which could result in lower prices or sales volumes of the products we produce, which may cause our profitability to suffer

The mines and minerals, commercial power generation, and oil and gas industries are highly competitive. We continue to compete with other industry participants in the search for and acquisition of mineral and oil and gas assets and licenses. Competitors include companies with, in many cases, greater financial resources, local contacts, staff and facilities than ours. Competition for exploration and production licenses as well as for other investment or acquisition opportunities may increase in the future. This may lead to increased costs in the carrying out of our activities, reduced available growth opportunities and may have a material adverse effect on our businesses, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

We depend upon third parties for supply of a portion of our raw material requirements, for the continuance of certain iron ore mining leases, and for execution of our projects and supply of equipment and services, as well as for offtake of our production volumes

We source a majority of our copper concentrate and a portion of alumina requirements from third parties. For example, in fiscal year 2018, we sourced approximately 99.0% of our copper concentrate and 65.4% of our alumina requirements from third parties. Profitability and operating margins of our copper and aluminium business depends on the ability of the suppliers to ensure timely delivery of the contracted volumes. Also, profitability and operating margins of our aluminium business depends upon our ability to obtain the required alumina at prices that are low relative to the market prices of aluminium products that we sell and our ability to source these raw materials at a reasonable price.

Further, in common with many exploration and production companies, we and the operators of assets often contract or lease services and equipment from third party providers. Such services and equipment can be scarce and may not be readily available at the times and places required. In addition, the costs of third party services and equipment have increased significantly over recent years and may continue to rise. Scarcity of services and equipment and increased prices may in particular result from any significant increase in regional exploration and development activities, which in turn may be the consequence of increased or continued high hydrocarbon or mineral prices. The scarcity of such services and equipment, as well as their potentially high costs, could delay, restrict or lower the profitability and viability of projects which may have a material adverse effect on our businesses, prospects, financial condition and results of operations.

In our oil and gas business, we had infrastructure and oil sales agreements with the GoI nominated public sector refineries and domestic private sector refineries for expected levels of crude oil production from the Rajasthan block until March 2018. Stoppage of off-take or supply could result if the buyers fail to take delivery of volumes anticipated by these sales agreements. Additionally, two private sector buyers accounted for approximately 47.6% of the total sales of Rajasthan block in fiscal year 2018 and any unforeseen disruption at these buyer’s facilities would affect sales volume and therefore revenue generation. Further, we are subject to the risk of delayed off takes or payment for delivered production volumes or counterparty default. Any of these could have an adverse impact on our crude oil sales and cash flows.

In certain cases, the relevant counterparty, either legally or as a result of geographic, infrastructure or other constraints or factors, is in practice the sole potential purchaser of the relevant production output. This is particularly the case for sales of gas which relies on the availability or construction of transmission and other infrastructure facilities, enabling the supply of gas produced to be supplied to end users. The absence of competitors for the transmission or purchase of gas produced by us may expose us to offtake and production delays, adverse pricing or other contractual terms or may restrict the availability of transmission or other necessary infrastructure.

Such delays or defaults or adverse pricing or other adverse contractual terms or restricted infrastructure availability could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Defects in title or loss of any leasehold interests in our properties could limit our ability to conduct operations on such properties or result in significant unanticipated costs

Our ability to mine the land on which we have been granted mining lease rights and to make use of our other industrial and office premises is dependent on the acquisition of surface rights. Surface rights and title to land are required to be negotiated separately with land owners, although there is no guarantee that these rights will be granted. Any delay outside of the ordinary course of business in obtaining or inability to obtain or any challenge to the title or leasehold rights to surface rights could negatively affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, there may be certain irregularities in title in relation to some of our owned and leased properties. For example, some of the agreements for such arrangements may not have been duly executed and/or adequately stamped or registered in the land records of the local authorities or the lease deeds may have expired and not yet been renewed. Since registration of land title in India is not centralized and has not been fully computerized, the title to land may be defective as a result of a failure on our part, or on the part of a prior transferee, to obtain the consent of all such persons or duly complete stamping and registration requirements. The uncertainty of title to land may impede the process of acquisition, independent verification and transfer of title, and any disputes in respect of land title that we may become party to may take several years and considerable expense to resolve if they become the subject of Court proceedings. Further, certain of these properties may not have been constructed or developed in accordance with local planning and building laws and other statutory requirements, or it may be alleged that such irregularities exist in the construction and development of our built up properties. For example, BALCO has 1,804.67 acres of government land out of which 1,751 acres is situated in forest land, which was given on lease by the state government. The lease deed has not been executed as on date as a petition was filed in the Supreme Court against BALCO in relation to the alleged encroachment of land on which our Korba smelter is situated. The matter is scheduled for hearing on August 6, 2018. Any such dispute, proceedings or irregularities may have an impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Third party interests in our subsidiary companies, restrictions due to stock exchange listings of our subsidiary companies as well as third party interest in assets of our subsidiary companies will restrict our ability to deal freely with our subsidiaries or such assets of our subsidiary companies, which may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition

We do not wholly own all of our operating subsidiaries, although we hold the majority of the total outstanding share capital in all of our subsidiaries. Although we have direct or indirect management control of HZL, BALCO and Black Mountain Mining, each of these companies has other shareholders who, in some cases, hold substantial interests. As a result of the non-controlling interests in our subsidiaries and affiliates and the Indian stock exchanges listings of HZL, these subsidiaries may be subject to additional legal or regulatory requirements, or we may be prevented from taking certain courses of action without the prior approval of a particular or a specified percentage of shareholders and/or regulatory bodies (under shareholders’ agreements, relationship agreements or by operation of law). The existence of minority or other interests in, and stock exchange listings of our subsidiaries may limit our ability to increase our equity interests in these subsidiaries, combine similar operations, utilize synergies that may exist between the operations of different subsidiaries, move funds among the different parts of our businesses or reorganize the structure of our business in a tax efficient manner, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

ONGC is our joint operation partner with respect to all operating assets of our oil and gas business, and we operate all of our oil and gas assets. Accordingly, any mismanagement of an oil and gas asset by us may give rise to liabilities to our joint operation partners in respect of such asset. There is also a risk that other parties with interests in our assets may elect not to participate in certain activities relating to those assets which require such party’s consent. In such circumstances, it may not be possible for such activities to be undertaken by us alone or in conjunction with other participants at the desired time or at all. In addition, other joint operation partners may default in their obligations to fund capital or other funding obligations in relation to the assets. In certain circumstances, we may be required under the terms of the relevant operating agreement to contribute all or part of any such funding shortfall, which could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Proceedings against the GoI which has disputed our exercise of the call option to purchase its remaining ownership interest in BALCO

There are certain proceedings that are currently ongoing with respect to the exercise of a call option to acquire the remaining shares of BALCO held by the GoI, in accordance with the terms of the shareholders’ agreement between the GoI and us. The amount claimed under this proceeding is presently unquantifiable. The arbitration tribunal formed under the directions of the High Court of Delhi declared an award rejecting our claim regarding the exercise of the option on January 22, 2011. According to the award, certain clauses of the shareholders’ agreement were held to be void, ineffective and inoperative as being in violation of sub section (2) of Section 111A of the Companies Act, 1956. We filed an application before the High Court of Delhi to set aside this award under Section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. Our application is scheduled for hearing on November 19, 2018. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Business—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO.” There is no assurance that the outcome of our challenge of the award will be favorable to us. In such an event, we may be unable to purchase the GoI’s remaining 49.0% interest in BALCO or may be required to pay a higher purchase price, should it decide to consummate such purchase, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Proceedings against the GoI which has disputed our exercise of the call option to purchase its remaining ownership interest in HZL

We commenced arbitration proceedings against the GoI with respect to exercise of our call option to acquire the remaining shares of HZL held by the GoI, in accordance with the terms of the shareholders’ agreement between the GoI and us. The GoI denied our right to exercise the option on the basis that the shareholders’ agreement contravenes the provisions of Section 111A of the Companies Act, 1956 and is therefore void. The next date of hearing by the arbitral tribunal is on November 24, 2018 See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Business—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO.” There can be no assurance that the arbitral proceedings will result in a favorable outcome for us. In such an event, we may be delayed in the purchase of, or may be unable to purchase, the GoI’s remaining 29.5% interest in HZL or may be required to pay a purchase price in excess of the market value or fair value of those shares, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Future production from our assets may vary from the forecast

We estimate the annual metal production and the mine life through a detailed mine plan for both open pit and underground mines and the oil and gas production rates and field life through the field development plans. These mine plans and field development plans are prepared based on our estimates of future mine and field performance. Future performance is subject to a number of risks including but not limited to geological conditions being more complex than originally predicted, ore grade being different from estimates, future producer or injector well performance, plant operating efficiencies being less than originally forecasted, inadequate power, water or utility supplies, and other constraints. Any material fall in production from the current production level or from the estimates due to some or all of the risks detailed above may adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In our oil and gas business, plateau production rates from the Rajasthan block may be less than forecast. The estimates of production rates and field life contained in the field development plans for the Mangala, Bhagyam, Aishwariya, Raageshwari and Saraswati fields in the Rajasthan block are based on our estimates of future field performance. Where any estimates of future production rates are in excess of the existing approved field plateau production rates in the case of our oil and gas business, the consent of the joint operation partner, the appropriate regulatory authorities and the GoI will be required before any of our oil fields can produce at these enhanced estimates of future production rates. In the event consent of the joint operation partner is delayed or not obtained, production would be limited to the rate set out in the field development plans, which would have a detrimental impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

If we do not continue to invest in new technologies and equipment, our technologies and equipment may become obsolete and our cost of production may increase relative to our competitors, or such implemented technologies might not achieve the objective, which would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and prospects

Our profitability and competitiveness are in large part dependent upon our ability to maintain a low cost of production as we sell commodity products with prices we are unable to influence. Unless we continue to invest in newer technologies and equipment and are successful at integrating such newer technologies and equipment to make our operations more efficient, our cost of production relative to our competitors may increase and we may cease to be profitable or competitive. Newer technologies and equipment are expensive and the necessary investments may be substantial. Moreover, such investments entail additional risks including whether they will reduce our cost of production sufficiently to justify the capital expenditures to obtain them, or whether they will result in achieving the objective of using such technology.

For example, the field development plans for the northern fields of the Rajasthan block assume the use of enhanced oil recovery techniques to extract an additional incremental percentage of the estimated oil in place in the reservoirs. Enhanced oil recovery screening studies of these northern fields have concluded that polymer flooding or alkaline surfactant polymer flooding, two common enhanced oil recovery techniques, are the preferred enhanced oil recovery options. In terms of scale, the project is one of the largest of its kind across the globe. Risks associated with the project include inadequate processing of produced fluids thereby impacting performance of surface facilities and continuous sourcing of polymer for ongoing operations.

Further, if we fail to maintain the polymer at the correct temperature in the reservoir, it may degrade and not function properly, thereby reducing the incremental amount of crude oil that is expected to be recovered. There is also a risk that the polymer handling facilities at the surface may perform at lower efficiency than designed, which may lead to degradation of the polymer and ultimately its higher consumption. All these factors could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The use of enhanced oil recovery technique may significantly increase the operational expenditure necessary to extract crude oil. The economic viability of such recovery techniques will be determined by the incremental cost of such techniques compared to the then prevailing price of crude oil in the international markets. There can be no assurance that the price of crude oil will allow such techniques to be an economically viable proposition at the time we intend to effect these enhanced recovery techniques. This could have a material adverse effect on our ability to compete, our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our iron ore business is largely dependent on export sales of iron ore to China. As a result, any downturn in the rate of economic growth in China or negative changes in international relations between India and China or negative changes in the Chinese regulatory or trade policies relating to the import of iron ore could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition

Even if we receive appropriate orders for continuation of mining operations in Goa, our iron ore business will remain largely dependent on export sales of iron ore to China. For instance in fiscal year 2018, 95.7% of sales to external customers for Goa was from exports to customers in China. As a result, the performance and growth of our iron ore business is necessarily dependent on the Chinese economy, which may be materially and adversely affected by political instability or regional conflicts, economic slowdown elsewhere in the world or otherwise. In addition, any worsening of international relations between India and China, any negative changes in Chinese regulatory or trade policies relating to the import of iron ore or other limitations or restrictions in our ability to export iron ore to China could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

We are subject to restrictive covenants for the credit facilities including term loans and working capital facilities provided to us and our subsidiaries

There are restrictive covenants in agreements which we have entered into with certain financial institutions for our borrowings and for borrowings by our subsidiaries. These restrictive covenants among others, require us to maintain certain financial ratios and seek the prior permission of these financial institutions for various activities, including, among others, any change in our capital structure, issue of equity, preferential capital or debentures, raising any loans and deposits from the public, undertaking any new project, effecting any scheme of acquisition, merger, amalgamation or reconstitution, implementing a new scheme of expansion or creation of a subsidiary. If the covenants are not complied with, we may be required to repay the amount borrowed from such lenders immediately. Such restrictive covenants may restrict our operations or ability to expand and may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We are involved in several civil and criminal litigation matters, arbitration proceedings and any final judgment against us could have a material adverse effect on our business, result of operations, financial condition and prospects

We are involved in several legal and arbitration proceedings including matters relating to, alleged violations of environmental, tax, Indian laws and regulations, criminal sanctions, property and labor disputes and other related issues. A final judgment against us or our directors in one or more of these disputes may result in damages that we will be required to pay to the other party, injunctions against us any of which may require us to cease or limit our operations and such decisions or judgments may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

For a detailed discussion of material litigation matters pending against us, see “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”

We may be liable for additional taxes if the tax holidays, exemptions and tax deferral schemes which we currently benefit from expire without renewal, and the benefits of the tax holidays, exemptions and tax deferral schemes are limited by the minimum alternative tax

We currently benefit from significant tax holidays, exemptions and tax deferral schemes. These tax holidays, exemptions and tax deferral schemes are for limited periods. For example, HZL’s captive power plant at Dariba, Chanderiya, and Zawar benefits from tax exemptions on the profits generated from transfers of power to HZL’s other units, which are expected to generate substantial savings. We also have wind mills located in states such as Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Rajasthan and refining and processing plants at Pantnagar, which are also eligible for tax exemption. We pay royalties and cess in relation to our oil and gas business, to the state governments and the central government in India at rates determined by the respective governments, linked to the volume/value of oil that we produce. Any adverse changes in these fiscal terms may have an adverse effect on our costs, results of operations and financial condition. Cess earlier being levied on volume was adversely affecting the net realization in a declining oil price scenario. In the budget of fiscal year 2016, levy of cess was made ad valorem basis, which will have an adverse impact on us with increase in prices.

Our captive power plants will continue to have the benefit of any existing tax exemptions, which are available before March 31, 2015 until such tax exemptions expire. The expiry or loss of existing tax holidays, exemptions and tax deferral schemes or the failure to obtain new tax holidays, exemptions or tax deferral schemes will likely increase our tax obligations and any increase could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, we are subject to a Minimum Alternate Tax which sets a minimum amount of tax that must be paid each year based on our book profits. The base Minimum Alternate Tax rate is currently 21.55%. The Minimum Alternate Tax prevents us from taking full advantage of any tax holidays, exemptions or tax deferral schemes that may be available to us.

The GoI may allege a breach of a covenant by us and seek to exercise a put or call right with respect to shares of HZL, which may result in substantial litigation and serious financial harm to our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects

Under the terms of the shareholders’ agreement between the GoI and erstwhile SIIL, we agreed that we would ensure that HZL would implement a 1 mmtpa greenfield zinc smelter plant at Kapasan in the state of Rajasthan (the “Kapasan Project”), within 5 years from April 11, 2002. The shareholders’ agreement provided that if within one year from this date, we reviewed the feasibility of the Kapasan Project and determined that it was not in the best economic interests of HZL, which determination required the report of an independent expert, and the board of directors of HZL confirmed this determination, then we would not be obliged to ensure that HZL implement the Kapasan Project. In 2003, HZL notified the GoI that the Kapasan Project would not be undertaken and that a report of an independent expert may not be required. While we have not received any notice of breach under the provisions of the shareholders’ agreement between the GoI and us with respect to HZL, the GoI may claim that we have breached the covenant related to the Kapasan Project as mentioned in the shareholders’ agreement triggering an event of default. The GoI, under the terms of the shareholders’ agreement, may become entitled to the right, which is exercisable at any time within 90 days from the day it became aware of such event of default, to either sell any or all of the shares of HZL held by the GoI to us at a price equivalent to 150.0% of the market value of such shares, or purchase any or all of the shares of HZL held by us at a price equivalent to 50.0% of the market value of such shares.

The closing market price of HZL’s shares on the NSE, on July 20, 2018 was ₹ 265 ($ 4) per share. Based solely on this price, if GoI became entitled to sell and exercised this right to sell all of its 1,247,950,590 shares of HZL at a price equivalent to 150.0% of their market value, we would be required to pay ₹ 496,528 million ($ 7,626 million) for those shares. Assuming the same July 20, 2018 closing market price of HZL’s shares, if GoI became entitled to purchase all of the 2,743,154,310 shares of HZL held by us at a price equivalent to 50.0% of their market value, we would receive ₹ 363,811 million ($ 5,588 million) for those shares.

If the GoI were to assert that an event of default occurred under the shareholders’ agreement and seek to exercise a put or call right with respect to shares of HZL, we may face expensive and time-consuming litigation over the matter, uncertainty as to the future of our zinc business, an inability to enforce our call option to acquire the GoI’s remaining 29.5% ownership interest in HZL and the possibility of serious financial harm if we were unsuccessful in litigation, any of which may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

Attracting and retaining talent at technical, managerial and leadership level as well as shortage of skilled labor in the natural resources industry could increase our costs and limit our ability to maintain or expand our operations, which could adversely affect our results of operations

Our efforts to execute our business plans will place significant demands on our management and other resources and we will be required to continue to improve operational, financial and other internal controls. Our ability to maintain and grow our business will depend on our ability to attract, train and retain personnel with skills that enable us to keep pace with growing demands and evolving industry standards. We are dependent to a large degree, on the continued service and performance of our senior management team and other key team members in our business divisions. The loss or diminution of services of members of our senior management or other key team members, or our failure to retain our key personnel at various managerial positions could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

Mining, metal refining, metal smelting and fabrication operations and oil and gas extraction, require a skilled and experienced labor force. If we experience a shortage of skilled and experienced labor, our labor productivity could decrease and costs could increase, our operations may be interrupted or we may be unable to maintain our current production or increase our production as otherwise planned, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and business prospects.

Our insurance coverage may prove inadequate to satisfy future claims against us

We maintain insurance, which we believe is typical in the respective industries in which we operate and in amounts which we believe to be commercially appropriate. Nevertheless, we may become subject to liabilities against which we may not have adequate insurance coverage or at all. Our insurance policies contain certain customary exclusions and limitations on coverage which may result in our claims not being honored to the full extent of the losses or damages we have suffered. The exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas is inherently hazardous. A range of factors incorporating natural and man-made factors may result in oil spills, fires, equipment failure, loss of well control, leakage of hydrocarbons or hydrogen sulfide etc., which can result in death, injury and damage to production facilities and the environment. In addition, our operating entities in India can only seek insurance from domestic insurance companies or foreign insurance companies operating in joint ventures with Indian companies and these insurance policies may not continue to be available at economically acceptable premiums. The occurrence of a significant adverse event, the risks of which are not fully covered or honored by such insurers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The Re-organization Transactions may not result in expected benefits

At the time of announcing the Re-organization Transactions, we estimated cost savings arising from the transaction, due to operational and financial synergies. These synergies may not be realized or may be materially lower than estimated and the extent to which any of the other benefits will actually be achieved, if at all, or the timing of any such benefits, cannot be predicted with certainty. If we are unable to realize the estimated cost savings or the other benefits that we expect to achieve through the consolidation, or if we are prevented from taking advantage of the anticipated tax efficiencies, or if we are unable to offset the incremental costs we incur over time as a result of the consolidation with such savings and benefits, there could be a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further, subsequent to the effectiveness of the Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme, a special leave petition challenging the orders of the High Court of Bombay at Goa was filed before the Supreme Court of India by the Commissioner of Income Tax, Goa and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in July 2013 and April 2014, respectively. Further, a creditor and a shareholder challenged the Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme in the High Court of Madras in September 2013. These petitions are pending for hearing and admission.

There is no assurance that the special leave petitions will be determined in our favor, and accordingly, there is no assurance that the Courts will negate the effectiveness of the Re-organization Transactions. In such circumstance, we may not be able to achieve financial, operational, strategic and other potential benefits from the consolidation pursuant to the Re-organization Transactions. See “Item 8. Financial Information— A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information— Legal Proceedings.” for further details.

We may fail to realize the financial flexibility, margin benefits, cost savings and other objectives which we had anticipated from the Cairn India Merger

There is no assurance that the Cairn India Merger will achieve the financial flexibility, cost savings and other objectives we had anticipated. These expected objectives may not develop or may be materially lower than anticipated and other assumptions (including the value of the recoverable assets) upon which we have determined the terms of the Cairn India Merger may prove to be incorrect. As such, the financial flexibility, cost savings and other objectives anticipated by us to result from the Cairn India Merger may not be achieved as expected, or at all, or may be delayed, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, operating results and prospects.

We may incur significant costs or loss of reputation in case of leakage of business sensitive information

The threats to the security of our digital infrastructure continue to evolve rapidly and we rely on digital systems and network technology. Any significant breach or failure of our digital infrastructure and/ or cyber security attacks due to negligence or IT security failure or any other reason could seriously disrupt our operations resulting in loss or misuse of data or sensitive information, disruption to our business, damage to our assets, legal or regulatory breaches and potentially legal liability. These could result in significant costs and/ or reputational consequences.

Risks Relating to Our Industry

Commodity prices and the copper TcRc may be volatile, which would affect our revenue, results of operations and financial condition

Historically, the international commodity prices for copper, zinc, oil and gas, iron ore and aluminium and the prevailing market TcRc rate for copper have been volatile and subject to wide fluctuations in response to relatively minor changes in the supply of, and demand for, such commodities, market uncertainties, the overall performance of world or regional economies and the related cyclicality in industries we directly serve and a variety of other factors. For example, between March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, the average LME prices of silver has decreased by 5.0% and the average LME prices of zinc, lead, copper, dated brent and aluminium increased by 29.0%, 19.0%, 25.0%, 18.0% and 21.0% respectively. Historically, international prices for crude oil and natural gas have fluctuated as a result of many macro-economic, geo-political and regional factors. Substantial or extended declines in international crude oil and gas prices could have an adverse effect on the economics of existing/ proposed projects, capex outlay, business, financial condition and results of operations. For instance, we purchase copper concentrate at the LME price for copper metal for the relevant quotational period less a treatment charge (“Tc”) and refining charge (“Rc”), or TcRc, that we negotiate with our suppliers, but which is influenced by the prevailing market rate for the TcRc. The TcRc has historically fluctuated independently and significantly from the copper LME price. We attempt to make the LME price a pass through for us as both our copper concentrate purchases and sales of finished copper products are based on LME prices. Nevertheless, we are also exposed to differences in the LME price between the quotational periods for the purchase of copper concentrate and sale of the finished copper products, and any decline in the copper LME price between these periods will adversely affect us. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Factors Affecting Results of Operations—Metal Prices, Copper TcRc and Power Tariff.”

Similarly, for the portion of our alumina requirements sourced internally, our profitability is dependent upon the LME price of aluminium, less the cost of production, which includes the cost of mining bauxite, the refining of bauxite into alumina, transportation of bauxite and alumina and smelting of alumina into aluminium. For the portion of our alumina requirements sourced from third parties, our profitability is dependent upon the LME price of aluminium, less the cost of the sourced alumina and the cost of smelting. During fiscal year 2018, 65.4% of our alumina requirement was sourced from third parties. Further, the units of power generated by our commercial power generation business are also subject to price volatility.

The market price of the alumina that we purchase from third parties and the market price of the aluminium metals that we sell have experienced volatility in the past and any increases in the market price of the raw material relative to the market price of the metal that we sell would adversely affect the profitability and operating margins of our aluminium business, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Further for our Rajasthan and Cambay blocks, the crude oil is benchmarked to Bonny Light, West African low sulphur crude that is frequently traded in the region, with appropriate adjustments for crude quality. The implied price realization of crude oil generally lies within the stated guidance of 8%—13% discount to Dated Brent for Rajasthan and 3%—6% to Dated Brent for Cambay, due to the prevailing oil market conditions. Movements in discount affect our revenue realization and any increase in quality differentials may adversely impact our revenues and profits.

Our reserves estimates are based on a number of assumptions, any changes to which may require us to lower our estimated reserves

There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating crude oil and natural gas reserves. Reservoir engineering follows a subjective process of estimating underground accumulations of crude oil and natural gas. It is well understood that these cannot be measured in an exact manner. These risks are gradually mitigated through enhanced understanding of the reservoirs, achieved by undertaking additional work. Reserves estimation involves a high degree of judgment and it is a function of the quality of the available data and the engineering and geological interpretation. Results of drilling, testing and production may substantially change the reserve estimates for a given reservoir over a period of time. For these reasons, actual results may vary substantially. Such variation in results may materially impact our actual production, revenue and expenditures.

Our metal and oil and gas reserves are estimates and represent the quantity of ore that we believed, as of March 31, 2018, could be mined, processed, recovered and sold at prices sufficient to cover the estimated future total costs of production, remaining investment and anticipated additional capital expenditures. These estimates are subject to numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of reserves and could vary in the future as a result of actual exploration and production results, depletion, new information on geology and fluctuations in production, operating and other costs and economic parameters such as metal prices, smelter treatment charges and exchange rates, many of which are beyond our control. For example, fluctuations in the market price of ore and other commodities reduced recovery rates or increased production costs due to inflation or other factors may render proven and probable ore reserves containing relatively lower grades of mineralization uneconomic to exploit and ultimately result in a restatement of reserves. As a result, you should not place undue reliance on the reserve data contained in this Annual Report. In the event that any of these assumptions turn out to be incorrect, we may need to revise our reserves downwards and this may adversely affect our life-of-mine plans and consequently the total value of our mining asset base, which could increase our costs and decrease our profitability.

Changes in tariffs, royalties, cess, customs duties, export duties and government assistance may reduce our Indian market domestic premium, which would adversely affect our profitability and results of operations

Copper, zinc and aluminium are sold in the Indian market at a premium to the international market prices of these metals due to tariffs payable on the import of such metals. Between March 2003 and February 2011, basic customs duties on imported copper, zinc, lead and aluminium decreased cumulatively from 25.0% to 5.0%, and have remained at 5.0% since February 2011. With effect from March 1, 2016 basic custom duty on imported aluminium increased to 7.5%. The GoI may reduce or abolish customs duties on any of these commodities in the future, although the timing and extent of such reductions cannot be predicted. As we sell the majority of the commodities we produce in India, any reduction in Indian tariffs on imports will decrease the premiums we receive in respect of those sales, which would have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We pay royalties to the state governments of Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan based on our extraction of bauxite and lead-zinc ore, respectively. Most significant of these is the royalty that HZL is required to pay to the state government of Rajasthan, where all of HZL’s mines are located, at a rate of 10.0%, with effect from September 14, 2014, of the zinc LME price payable on the zinc metal contained in the concentrate produced and 14.5% of the lead LME price payable on the lead metal contained in the concentrate produced. Any upward revision to the royalty rates being charged currently may adversely affect our profitability. Additionally, the Department of Mines and Geology of the State of Rajasthan has raised additional demands for payment through several show cause notices to HZL for mining minerals associated with lead and zinc such as cadmium and silver. Similarly, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business pays royalties and cess to the state governments and the Central government in India at rates determined by the respective governments, linked to the volume or value of oil produced. Any adverse changes in these fiscal terms may adversely affect our profitability. Cess earlier being levied on volume was adversely affecting the net realization in a declining oil price scenario. In the budget of fiscal year 2016, levy of cess was made on an ad valorem basis. See “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings—Demands against HZL by Department of Mines and Geology.” We pay royalties to the state government of Tasmania in Australia based on our extraction of copper ore. We also pay royalties to the government from our Zinc International business. In our iron ore business, we pay royalty on iron ore to the state governments of Goa at 15% of the average price declared periodically by the Indian Bureau of Mines and in Karnataka, royalty / Special Purpose Vehicle contribution at 15% is borne by buyer. We used to pay export duty on export of iron ore at the rate of 30% ad valorem on the Free on Board (‘F.O.B”) value of exports with effect from December 30, 2011 (the rate being 20% prior to December 30, 2011) and the GoI had reduced the rate of export duty on iron ore fines of less than 58 grade from 30% to 10% which is effective from June 1, 2015. The duty was further reduced to nil duty effective March 1, 2016, on exports of iron ore less than 58 grade. In April 2014, the Supreme Court of India ordered to create the Iron Ore Goa Permanent Fund, wherein all lease holders have to contribute 10% of sales value to this fund, See “Item 5 — Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Factors Affecting Results of Operations — Government Policy” for details.

Changes in tax laws could also result in additional taxes payable by us. For example, the GoI raised the export duty on iron ore fines twice during 2011, first to 20% with effect from March 1, 2011 and then to 30% with effect from December 30, 2011. Currently, export duty is applicable on above 58 Fe grade iron ore only.

Towards end of fiscal year 2015, the MMDRA is notified which brings greater transparency in granting of mineral concessions through an e-auction process. It also removes certain uncertainties relating to automatic renewals of mine leases for future periods. However, for existing mining leases, it notifies an amount not exceeding royalty, to be contributed to District Mineral Foundation (DMF) for the benefit of people affected by mining and an additional amount equivalent to 2% of royalty to National Mineral Exploration Trust. DMF contribution was notified at 30% of the base royalty rate in September 2015.

Indian exports of copper, aluminium and zinc receive assistance premiums from the GoI, which have been reduced since 2002. These export assistance premiums have been reduced in recent years and may be further reduced in the future. Any reduction in these premiums will decrease the revenue we receive from export sales and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Factors Affecting Results of Operations—Government Policy.”

Further, the GoI has enacted the Goods and Service Tax (“GST”) regime with effect from July 1, 2017, which is a unified, state of art taxation system, intended to integrate the Indian economy into a single unified market. The GST regime replaces the existing indirect tax regime consisting of central excise law and Service Tax law at the central level and respective state value added tax law, entry tax law and luxury tax law at the state level. Pursuant to the GST regime, the central government has enacted and notified in the Official Gazette, the Central Goods and Service Tax Act, 2017, the Integrated Goods and Service Tax Act, 2017, the Goods and Service Tax (Compensation to Sates) Act, 2017 and notifications, clarifications, orders, press releases under the aforementioned laws. Further, the state governments have also enacted and notified the respective state goods and service tax laws including the notifications, clarifications, orders, and press releases under these laws. The enactment of the GST regime and consequent enactments passed by the central and state governments have necessitated changes and alignment in the other laws such as the Legal Metrology Act, foreign trade policies and Tariff rates under Customs Act.

The upstream oil and gas industry is dependent on a limited number of global vendors for key equipment and services

There are a limited number of highly specialized vendors globally catering to the requirements of upstream oil and gas industry for key equipment and services such as rigs and other oilfield equipment and services. Many of these equipment and services involve long lead times to delivery. Inability or delay in sourcing the equipment and services of the required specifications and quality may result in delay of our exploration, development and production projects, and consequently have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

There are particular risks and hazards associated with mining and oil exploration activities

Our mining operations include open-pit and underground mining, both of which involve significant hazards and risks. Hazards associated with our open-pit mining operations include flooding of the open pit, collapses of the open-pit wall, accidents related to the operation of large open-pit mining and rock transportation equipment, accidents related to the preparation and ignition of large scale open pit blasting operations, production disruptions due to weather and hazards related to the disposal of mineralized waste water, such as groundwater and waterway contamination. Hazards associated with our underground mining operations include underground fires and explosions, including those caused by flammable gas, cave-ins or ground falls, discharges of gases and toxic chemicals, flooding, sinkhole formation and ground subsidence and other accidents and conditions resulting from drilling and removing and processing material from an underground mine. If any of these hazards or accidents result in significant injury to employees and damage to equipment or other property, we may experience unexpected production delays, increased production costs, and increased capital expenditures to repair or replace equipment or property, as well as claims from affected employees and environmental and other authorities for any alleged breaches of applicable laws or regulations.

Disruptions to mining and oil extraction, delays and costs on account of such hazards or accidents could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We may be affected by competition law in India and any adverse application or interpretation of the Competition Act could adversely affect its business

The Competition Act, 2002, as amended (the “Competition Act”), regulates practices having an appreciable adverse effect on competition in the relevant market in India. Under the Competition Act, any formal or informal arrangement, understanding or action in concert, which causes or is likely to cause an appreciable adverse effect on competition is considered void and results in the imposition of substantial monetary penalties. Further, any agreement among competitors which, directly or indirectly, involves the determination of purchase or sale prices, limits or controls production, supply, markets, technical development, investment or provision of services, shares the market or source of production or provision of services by way of allocation of geographical area, types of goods or services or number of clients in the relevant market or, directly or indirectly, results in bid-rigging or collusive bidding is presumed to have an appreciable adverse effect on competition. The Competition Act also prohibits abuse of a dominant position by any enterprise. The Competition Commission of India (the “CCI”), has extra-territorial powers and can investigate any agreements, abusive conduct or combination occurring outside India if such agreement, conduct or combination has an appreciable adverse effect on competition in India. Our operations in India are currently not subject to any outstanding proceedings under the Competition Act. However, if our operations in India are affected, directly or indirectly, by the application or interpretation of any provision of the Competition Act, or any enforcement proceedings initiated by the CCI, or any adverse publicity that may be generated due to scrutiny or prosecution by the CCI or if any prohibition or substantial penalties are levied under the Competition Act, it would adversely affect our business, cash flows and results of operation.

Risks Relating to Our Relationship with Vedanta

We are controlled by Vedanta and our other shareholders’ ability to influence matters requiring shareholder approval will be extremely limited

We are a majority-owned and controlled subsidiary of Vedanta. Volcan Investments Limited, or Volcan holds 61.60% of the share capital and 68.62% of the voting rights of Vedanta as of July 20, 2018. Volcan is a holding company, 100% beneficially owned and controlled by the Trust. Conclave is the trustee of the Trust and the sole registered shareholder of Volcan and consequently controls all voting and investment decisions of the Trust. Vedanta shares beneficially owned by Volcan may be deemed to be beneficially owned by the Trust, of which Mr. Anil Agarwal is the protector and with effect from October 16, 2014, one of the beneficiaries. Vedanta, Volcan, the Trust, Conclave and Mr. Anil Agarwal are parties to a relationship agreement that seeks to facilitate the carrying on of Vedanta’s business independently of Volcan, its direct and indirect shareholders, and their respective associates, or as collectively referred to below, the Volcan Parties. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—B. Related Party Transactions—Related Parties—Vedanta.” However, we cannot assure you that Vedanta, and in turn we, will be able to operate completely independently of the Volcan Parties, despite the relationship agreement, lack of independence could have a material adverse effect on the holders of our equity shares and ADSs.

As long as Vedanta, through its subsidiaries, owns a majority of our outstanding equity shares, Vedanta may have the ability to control or influence significant matters requiring board approval and to take shareholder action without the vote of any other shareholder, and the holders of our equity shares and ADSs will not, in such circumstances, be able to affect the outcome of any shareholder vote. Vedanta will have the ability to control all matters affecting us. In the event Vedanta ceases to be our majority shareholder, we will be required to immediately repay some of our outstanding long-term debt.

Vedanta’s voting control may discourage transactions involving a change of control of us, including transactions in which holders of our equity shares and ADSs might otherwise receive a premium over the then current market prices. Vedanta is not prohibited from selling a controlling interest in us to a third party and may do so without the approval of holders of our equity shares and ADSs and without providing for a purchase of our equity shares or ADSs. Accordingly, our equity shares and ADSs may be worth less than they would be if Vedanta did not maintain voting control over us.

Vedanta may decide to allocate business opportunities to other members of the Vedanta Group instead of us, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects

Vedanta’s control of us means it can determine the allocation of business opportunities among us, itself and its other subsidiaries. For example, as of July 20, 2018, Vedanta owned 79.4% of Konkola Copper Mines Plc, an integrated copper producer in Zambia, apart from the control exercised on us, and our subsidiaries, through us. As Vedanta controls Konkola Copper Mines Plc, it determines the allocation of business opportunities among, as well as strategies and actions of, Konkola Copper Mines Plc and us. Vedanta may determine to have Konkola Copper Mines Plc or any other entity instead of us, pursue business opportunities in the zinc, oil and gas, copper, iron ore, aluminium or commercial power generation business, or any other business, or cause such companies or us to undertake corporate strategies, the effect of which is to benefit such companies instead of us and which could be detrimental to our interests. If Vedanta were to take any such actions, our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects could be materially and adversely affected and the value of our equity shares and the ADSs may decline.

We have issued several guarantees as security for the obligations of certain of our subsidiaries and other companies within the Vedanta Group and we will have liability under these guarantees in the event of any failure by such entities to perform their obligations, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition

We have issued several guarantees in respect of the obligations of certain of our subsidiaries and other companies within the Vedanta Group, including guarantees on the issuance of customs and excise duty bonds, performance bank guarantees while bidding for supply contracts or in lieu of advances received from customers, bank guarantees for securing supplies of materials and services etc. Our outstanding guarantees cover obligations aggregating ₹ 22,591 million and ₹ 27,036 million ($ 415 million) as of March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively the liabilities for which have not been recorded in our consolidated financial statements. These are contractual guarantees and are enforceable if the terms and conditions of the contracts are not met and the maximum liability on these contracts is the amount mentioned above. The Group does not anticipate any liability on these guarantees. See Note 29 “Commitments, contingencies, and guarantees” on Notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Any disputes that arise between us and Vedanta or other companies in the Vedanta Group could harm our business operations

Disputes may arise between Vedanta or other companies in the Vedanta Group and us in a number of areas, including:

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intercompany agreements setting forth services and prices for services between us and Vedanta or other companies in the Vedanta Group;

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business combinations involving us;

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sales or distributions by Vedanta of all or any portion of its ownership interest in us; or

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business opportunities that may be attractive to us and Vedanta, or other companies in the Vedanta Group.

We may not be able to resolve any potential conflicts, and even if we do, the resolution may be less favorable than if we were dealing with an unaffiliated party.

Our agreements with Vedanta and other companies in the Vedanta Group may be amended upon agreement between the parties. As we are controlled by Vedanta, Vedanta may require us to agree to amendments to these agreements that may be less favorable to us than the original terms of the agreements.

Some of our directors and executive officers may have conflicts of interest because of their ownership of Vedanta shares, options to acquire Vedanta shares and positions with Vedanta

Some of our directors and executive officers own Vedanta shares and options to purchase Vedanta shares, including through their continued participation in the Vedanta Performance Share Plan or Deferred Bonus Share Plan of Vedanta. In addition, some of our directors and executive officers are directors or executive officers of Vedanta. Ownership of Vedanta shares and options to purchase Vedanta shares and the presence of executive officers of Vedanta on our Board of directors could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest and other issues with respect to their fiduciary duties to us when our directors and officers are faced with decisions that could have different implications for Vedanta than for us.

Our management, including our senior management, is not solely focused on our business and may be distracted by, or have conflicts as a result of, the demands of Vedanta or other businesses within the Vedanta Group, which may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

As a foreign private issuer and a “controlled company” within the meaning of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) rules, we are subject to different NYSE rules than non-controlled domestic US issuers. Consequently, the corporate governance standards which we are required to adhere to are different than those applicable to such companies, which may limit the information available to, and the shareholder rights of, holders of our ADSs

We qualify as a “controlled company” within the meaning of the NYSE rules as Vedanta has effective control of a majority of our equity shares. This will allow Vedanta to, among other things, control the composition of our Board of directors and direct our management and policies.

As a foreign private issuer and a “controlled company,” we are exempt from complying with certain corporate governance requirements of the NYSE, including the requirement that a majority of our Board of directors consist of independent directors. As the corporate governance standards applicable to us are different than those applicable to domestic non-controlled US issuers, holders of our equity shares and ADSs may not have the same protections afforded under the NYSE rules as shareholders of companies that do not have such exemptions. It is also possible that the Agarwal family’s significant ownership interest of us as a result of its majority ownership of Vedanta’s majority shareholder, Volcan, could adversely affect investors’ perceptions of our corporate governance. For a summary of the differences between the corporate governance standards applicable to us as a listed company in India and as a foreign private issuer and “controlled company” in the United States and such standards applicable to a domestic non-controlled US issuer, see “Item 10. Additional Information—B. Memorandum and Articles of Association—Comparison of Corporate Governance Standards.”

Risks Relating to Investments in Indian Companies, Global Economic Conditions and International Operations

A substantial portion of our assets and operations are located in India and we are subject to regulatory, economic, social and political uncertainties in India

We are incorporated in India. Our primary operating subsidiaries, HZL and BALCO, are also incorporated in India. A substantial portion of our assets and employees are located in India and we intend to continue to develop and expand our facilities in India. Consequently, our financial performance and the market price of our equity shares and ADSs will be affected by changes in exchange rates and controls, interest rates, changes in government policies, including taxation policies, social and civil unrest and other political, social and economic developments in or affecting India.

The GoI has exercised and continues to exercise significant influence over many aspects of the Indian economy. Since 1991, successive Indian governments have pursued policies of economic liberalization, including by significantly relaxing restrictions on the private sector. Nevertheless, the role of the Indian central and state governments in the Indian economy as producers, consumers and regulators has remained significant and we cannot assure you that such liberalization policies will continue. The rate of economic liberalization could change, and specific laws and policies affecting metals and mining companies, foreign investments, currency exchange rates and other matters affecting investment in India could change as well. For instance, recently, the GoI and the RBI has declared that ₹ 500 and ₹ 1,000 denominations of bank notes have ceased to be legal tender. Pursuant to this currency demonetization, these high denomination notes have no value and cannot be used for transactions or exchange purposes with effect from November 9, 2016. These notes have been replaced with a new series of bank notes. The process of demonetization and replacement of these high denomination notes has reduced the liquidity in the Indian economy which has significant reliance on cash. These factors had resulted in reduced purchasing power, and altered consumption patterns in general. While the comprehensive and long-term impact of this currency demonetization measure cannot be ascertained at the moment, there has been a slowdown in the economic activities in India, at least in the short term, given the demonetization impacts a majority quantity of the cash currency in circulation. Such a slowdown can adversely affect the Indian economy, in turn affecting the operations of our business in India. Further, protests against privatizations and government corruption scandals, which have occurred in the past, could slow the pace of liberalization and deregulation. Given the changes in government policy on divestments, there can be no assurance that any of the proposed privatizations which we may be interested in pursuing will be implemented or completed in the near future, or at all. A significant change in India’s policy of economic liberalization and deregulation could adversely affect business and economic conditions in India generally and our business in particular, if new restrictions on the private sector is introduced or if existing restrictions are increased.

As the domestic Indian market constitutes the major source of our revenue, the downturn in the rate of economic growth in India or other countries due to the unprecedented and challenging global market and economic conditions, or any other such downturn for any other reason, will be detrimental to our results of operations

In fiscal year 2018, approximately 57.9% of our revenue was derived from commodities that we sold to customers in India. The performance and growth of our business are necessarily dependent on the health of the overall Indian economy. Any downturn in the rate of economic growth in India, whether due to political instability or regional conflicts, economic slowdown elsewhere in the world or otherwise, may have a material adverse effect on demand for the commodities we produce. The Indian economy is also largely driven by the performance of the agriculture sector, which depends on the quality of the monsoon, which is difficult to predict. In the past, economic slowdowns have harmed manufacturing industries, including companies engaged in the copper, zinc, aluminium and power sectors, as well as the customers of manufacturing industries. Any future slowdown in the Indian economy could have a material adverse effect on the demand for the commodities we produce and, as a result, on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, the Indian securities market and the Indian economy are influenced by economic and market conditions in other countries. Although economic conditions are different in each country, investors’ reactions to developments in one country can have adverse effect on the securities of companies in other countries, including India. A loss of investor confidence in the financial systems of other emerging markets may cause volatility in Indian financial markets and, indirectly, in the Indian economy in general. Any worldwide financial instability could also have a negative impact on the Indian economy, including the movement of exchange rates and interest rates in India. Any slowdown in the Indian economy, or future volatility in global commodity prices, could adversely affect the growth of our business in India.

The Indian economy and financial markets are also significantly influenced by worldwide economic, financial and market conditions. Any financial turmoil, especially in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe or China, may have a negative impact on the Indian economy. Although economic conditions differ in each country, investors’ reactions to any significant developments in one country can have adverse effects on the financial and market conditions in other countries. A loss in investor confidence in the financial systems, particularly in other emerging markets, may cause increased volatility in Indian financial markets.

For instance, on June 23, 2016, the United Kingdom held a referendum on its membership of the European Union and voted to leave (Brexit). There is significant uncertainty at this stage as to the impact of Brexit on general economic conditions in the United Kingdom and the European Union and any consequential impact on global financial markets. For example, Brexit could give rise to increased volatility in foreign exchange rate movements and the value of equity and debt investments. A lack of clarity over the process for managing the exit and uncertainties surrounding the economic impact could lead to a further slowdown and instability in financial markets. This and any prolonged financial crisis may have an adverse impact on the Indian economy, thereby resulting in a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations

Terrorist attacks and other acts of violence involving India, the MENA region or other neighboring countries could adversely affect our operations directly, or may result in a more general loss of customer confidence and reduced investment in these countries that reduces the demand for our products, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations

Terrorist attacks and other acts of violence or war involving India or other neighboring countries may adversely affect the Indian markets and the worldwide financial markets. The occurrence of any of these events may result in a loss of business confidence, which could potentially lead to economic recession and generally have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Further, any wars, acts of terrorism and uncertain political or economic prospects or instability in the Middle East and North Africa (“MENA region”) may adversely impact global financial markets and an increase in the price of crude oil. Recent protests in the MENA region may continue and broaden across the region and lead to significant political uncertainties in a number of countries.

In addition, any deterioration in international relations may result in investor concern regarding regional stability which could adversely affect the price of our equity shares and ADSs.

South Asia has also experienced instances of civil unrest, terrorist attacks and hostilities among neighboring countries from time to time, especially between India and Pakistan. Such activity or terrorist attacks in the future could adversely affect the Indian economy by disrupting communications and making travel more difficult and could create the perception that investments in Indian companies involve a high degree of risk. Furthermore, if India were to become engaged in armed hostilities, particularly hostilities that were protracted or involved the threat or use of nuclear weapons, we might not be able to continue our operations.

If natural disasters or environmental conditions in India, including floods and earthquakes, affect our mining and production facilities, our revenue could decline

Our mines and production facilities are spread across India, and our sales force is spread throughout the country. Natural calamities such as floods, rains, heavy downpours (such as heavy downpours in Tuticorin in 2008 which caused the closure of our Tuticorin facilities for two to three days, as well as the rains in Mumbai and other parts of the State of Maharashtra in 2005 and other states in 2006) and earthquakes could disrupt our mining and production activities and distribution chains and damage our storage facilities. Unusually heavy rains during the monsoon season in the years 2006 and 2013 in the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat triggered floods and caused destruction in these states. The area in which the Mangala field is located experienced flooding which directly affected existing well-sites and roads. Other regions in India have also experienced floods, earthquakes, tsunamis and droughts in recent years.

Substantially all of our facilities and employees are located in India and there can be no assurance that we will not be affected by natural disasters in the future. For example, the pipeline to transport crude oil from the northern fields of the Rajasthan block to Salaya, and thereafter to the Bhogat terminal in Gujarat, passes near Bhuj, which was the epicenter of an earthquake measuring 6.9 on the richter scale in 2001 and that resulted in the deaths of approximately 30,000 people as well as damage to the infrastructure in the region. Although our Rajasthan block crude oil production plans assume that the proposed pipeline will withstand damage from fire, earthquakes, floods, storms and similar events, there can be no assurance that the pipeline will withstand damage from such events. In addition, if there were a drought or general water shortage in India or any part of India where our operations are located, the GoI or local, state or other authorities may restrict water supplies to us and other industrial operations in order to maintain water supplies for drinking and other public necessities which would cause us to reduce or close our operations. Our business and operating activities could be disrupted if we do not respond, or are perceived not to respond, in an appropriate manner to any major crisis or if we are not able to restore or replace critical operational capacity.

Currency fluctuations among the Indian Rupee, the US dollar and other currencies could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations

Although substantially all of our revenue is tied to commodity prices that are typically priced by reference to the US dollar, most of our expenses are incurred and paid in Indian Rupees and, to a lesser extent, Australian dollars, Euros, Namibian dollars and South African Rands. In addition, in fiscal year 2018, 42.1% of our revenue was derived from commodities that we sold to customers outside India. The exchange rates between the Indian Rupee and the US dollar and between other currencies and the US dollar have changed substantially in recent years and may fluctuate substantially in the future. See “Item 10. Additional Information—D. Exchange Controls”. Our results of operations or financial condition could be adversely affected if the US dollar depreciates against the Indian Rupee or other currencies. We seek to mitigate the impact of short-term movements in currency on our businesses by hedging our short-term exposures progressively based on their maturity. However, large or prolonged movements in exchange rates may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

If India’s inflation, the prices of oil or other raw materials were to rise, we may not be able to pass the resulting increased costs to our customers and this may adversely affect our profitability or cause us to suffer operating losses

Inflation rates in India have been volatile in recent years, and such volatility may continue in the future. For instance, India has experienced wholesale price inflation in the past compared to historical levels due to higher demand than supply. In addition, international prices of crude oil have experienced significant volatility in the past, including a rise to historical highs that increased transportation costs followed more recently by a significant decline as global economic conditions have deteriorated. Inflation, increased transportation costs and an increase in energy prices generally, which may be caused by a rise in the price of oil, or an increase in the price of thermal coking coal in particular, could cause our costs for raw material inputs required for production of our products to increase, which would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations if we cannot pass these added costs along to customers.

Stringent labor laws in India may adversely affect our profitability

India has stringent labor legislation that protects the interests of workers, including legislation that sets forth detailed procedures for dispute resolution and employee compensation for injury or death sustained in the course of employment, and imposes financial obligations on employers upon employee layoffs. This makes it difficult for us to maintain flexible human resource policies, discharge employees or downsize, which may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Political, economic and social risks associated with investments in countries other than India could have an adverse effect on our business

In addition to operating in India, we currently operate in various other jurisdictions including South Africa, Namibia, U.A.E., Ireland, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Liberia. Certain of these countries are subject to political, economic and social developments that may, individually or in combination, create risks for investors that may be more difficult to predict or measure than would be the case in certain developed economies. Any political instability could have an adverse impact on the economy as a whole. Political disruptions and civil unrest that may occur in any of these countries could potentially have an adverse effect on exports and, consequently, on our business, financial condition and results of operations. For example, the Ebola epidemic in Liberia resulted in stoppage of drilling, exploration work for iron ore during fiscal year 2015. We evacuated staff in Liberia owing to the Ebola risk in 2015. In consideration of the suspension of exploration in Liberia, low iron ore prices, geo-political factors and no plans for any substantive expenditure resulting in continued uncertainty in the project, an impairment charge of US $ 228 million had been recognised, in fiscal year 2016.

Further, the orders of mining suspension were withdrawn by the state government in 2015 and operations were recommenced in January 2015. The Supreme Court passed its final order in the matter on February 7, 2018 wherein it set aside the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the State of Goa. The Supreme Court directed all lease holders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act. Our mines in the State of Goa were impacted consequent to the judgement of the Supreme Court.

Global economic conditions have been unprecedented and challenging and have had, and continue to have, an adverse effect on the Indian financial markets and the Indian economy in general, which has had, and may continue to have, a material adverse effect on our business, our financial performance and the prices of our equity shares and ADSs

Global market and economic conditions have been unprecedented and challenging and have resulted in tighter credit conditions and recession in most major economies in the last several years. Continued concerns about the systemic impact of potential long-term and wide-spread recession, energy costs, geopolitical issues, the availability and cost of credit, and the global housing and mortgage markets have contributed to increased market volatility and diminished expectations across various economies. These conditions, combined with volatile oil prices, declining business and consumer confidence and increased unemployment, have contributed to volatility of unprecedented levels.

As a result of these market conditions, the cost and availability of credit has been and may continue to be adversely affected by illiquid credit markets and wider credit spreads. Concern about the stability of the markets generally and of counterparties specifically has led many lenders and institutional investors to reduce, and in some cases, cease to provide credit to businesses and consumers. These factors have led to a decrease in spending by businesses and consumers alike and corresponding decreases in global infrastructure spending and commodity prices. Continued turbulence in the international markets and economies and prolonged declines in business consumer spending may adversely affect our liquidity and financial condition, and the liquidity and financial condition of our customers, including our ability to refinance maturing liabilities and access the capital markets to meet liquidity needs. These global market and economic conditions have had an adverse effect on the Indian financial markets and the Indian economy in general, which has had, and may continue to have, a material adverse effect on our business, our financial performance and the prices of our equity shares and ADSs. For example, in response to global economic conditions and a decline in commodity prices, we had ceased operations at one of our aluminium smelters at the Korba complex in previous years which had an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operation.

There are certain differences in shareholder rights and protections between the laws of India and the United States and between governance standards for a US public company and a foreign private issuer such as us

We are incorporated in India and investors should be aware that there are certain differences in the shareholder rights and protections between the laws of India and the United States. There are also certain differences in the corporate governance standards for a domestic US issuer and those applicable to a foreign private issuer such as us. See “Item 10. Additional Information—B. Memorandum and Articles of Association—Comparison of Shareholders’ Rights.”

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”) and the various Indian stock exchanges are responsible for improving and setting standards for disclosure and other regulatory standards for the Indian securities markets. SEBI has issued regulations and guidelines on disclosure requirements, insider trading and other matters. Nevertheless, there may be less information made publicly available in respect of Indian companies than is regularly made available by public companies in the United States as a result of differences between the level of regulation and monitoring of the Indian securities markets and of the transparency of the activities of investors and brokers in India compared to the United States. Similarly, our disclosure obligations under the rules of the NSE and BSE Ltd. (“BSE”) on which our equity shares are listed may be less than the disclosure obligations of public companies on the NYSE.

Risks Relating to Our ADSs

Substantial future sales of our equity shares or ADSs in the public market, or the perception of such sales, could cause the market price of our ADSs to fall

If our existing shareholders sell a substantial number of our equity shares in the open market, or if there is a perception that such sale or distribution could occur, the market price of our equity shares and ADSs could be adversely affected. These sales, or the perception that these sales could occur, also might make it more difficult for us to sell securities in the future at a time or at a price that we deem appropriate or pay for acquisitions using our equity securities.

As of March 31, 2018, we had 3,717,504,871 equity shares outstanding, including 248,424,696 equity shares represented by 62,106,174 ADSs. All our 3,717,196,639 outstanding equity shares are freely tradable on the NSE and BSE, pending allotment and listing of 3,08,232 equity shares as they are under dispute. Furthermore, Vedanta, through Twin Star and other investment companies, continued to have effective control over 1,863,458,132 of our total outstanding equity shares (including equity shares representing ADSs), which represented 50.1% of our outstanding share capital as of July 20, 2018.

Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Indian Rupee and the US dollar could have a material adverse effect on the value of our ADSs, independent of our actual operating results

The price of the ADSs is quoted in US dollars. Our equity shares are quoted in Indian Rupees on the NSE and BSE. Any dividends in respect of our equity shares will be paid in Indian Rupees and subsequently converted into US dollars for distribution to ADS holders.

Currency exchange rate fluctuations will affect the dollar equivalent of the Indian Rupee price of our equity shares on the NSE and BSE and, as a result, the prices of our ADSs, as well as the US dollar value of the proceeds a holder would receive upon the sale in India of any of our equity shares withdrawn from the depositary under the deposit agreement and the US dollar value of any cash dividends we pay on our equity shares. Holders may not be able to convert Indian Rupee proceeds into US dollars or any other currency, and there is no guarantee of the rate at which any such conversion will occur, if at all. Currency exchange rate fluctuations will also affect the value received by ADS holders from any dividends paid by us in respect of our equity shares. Holders of our ADSs will bear all of the risks with respect to a decline in the value of the Indian Rupee as compared to the US dollar, which would adversely affect the price of our ADSs and the US dollar value of any dividends we pay that are received by ADS holders.

Transfers of the underlying shares by persons resident outside India to residents of India are subject to certain pricing norms

Under current Indian regulations, subject to certain conditions, no prior regulatory approval is required for the sale of any equity shares, including any equity shares withdrawn from the ADS facilities, by a person resident outside India to a resident of India. However, certain reporting requirements would need to be complied with by the parties to the sale transaction. Also, the prior approval of the RBI would be required in the event of a sale of the equity shares underlying our ADSs by a non-resident investor to a resident investor if the sale price is greater than the maximum price set by the RBI under Indian foreign exchange laws. Any such approval required from the RBI or any other government agency may not be obtained on terms favorable to a non-resident investor, or at all.

Holders of ADSs may be restricted in their ability to exercise preemptive rights under Indian law and thereby may suffer future dilution of their ownership positions

Under the Indian Companies Act, the holders of equity shares of a company incorporated in India have a preemptive right to subscribe and pay for a proportionate number of shares to maintain their existing ownership percentages prior to the issuance of any new equity shares by the company, unless the preemptive rights have been waived by adopting a special resolution passed by 75% of the shareholders present and voting at a general meeting.

Holders of ADSs may be unable to exercise preemptive rights for the underlying equity shares of the ADSs unless a registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act is effective with respect to such rights or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act is available. We are not obligated to prepare and file such a registration statement and our decision to do so will depend on the costs and potential liabilities associated with any such registration statement, as well as any other factors we consider appropriate at the time. No assurance can be given that we would file a registration statement under these circumstances. If we issue any such securities in the future, such securities may be issued to the depositary, which may sell the securities for the benefit of the holders of the ADSs. The value the depositary would receive from the sale of such securities cannot be predicted. To the extent that holders of ADSs are unable to exercise preemptive rights granted in respect of our equity shares represented by their ADSs, their proportional ownership interests in us would be diluted.

We may be classified as a passive foreign investment company, which could result in adverse United States federal income tax consequences to US Holders

Based on the market prices of our equity shares and ADSs and the composition of our income and assets, including goodwill, although not clear, we do not believe we were a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes for our taxable year ended March 31, 2018. However, the application of the PFIC rules is subject to uncertainty in several respects and, therefore, the US Internal Revenue Service may assert that, contrary to our belief, we were a PFIC for such taxable year. Moreover, although the asset test (defined below) is required to be calculated based on the fair market value of our assets, we did not do a valuation of our assets and our belief that we were not a PFIC for our taxable year ended March 31, 2018 is, in part, based on the book value of our assets. A non-United States corporation will be considered a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for any taxable year if either (1) at least 75% of its gross income for such year is passive income or (2) at least 50% of the total value of its assets (based on an average of the quarterly values of the assets during such year) is attributable to assets, including cash, that produce or are held for the production of passive income, or passive assets. In addition, a separate determination must be made after the close of each taxable year as to whether we were a PFIC for that year. Because the aggregate value of our assets for purposes of the PFIC test will generally be determined by reference to the market price of our ADSs and equity shares, fluctuations in the market price of the ADSs and equity shares may cause us to become a PFIC. In addition, changes in the composition of our income or assets may cause us to become a PFIC. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that we will not be a PFIC for the taxable year that will end on March 31, 2018 or any future taxable year. If we were a PFIC for any taxable year during which a US Holder (as defined under “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation—United States Federal Income Taxation”) holds an ADS or an equity share, certain adverse United States federal income tax consequences could apply to the US Holder. See “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation—United States Federal Income Taxation—Passive Foreign Investment Company.”

ITEM 4.

INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

A.	History and Development of our Company

Our Company identification number is L13209MH1965PLC291394. Our registered office is presently situated at 1^st Floor, C wing, Unit 103, Corporate Avenue, Atul Projects, Chakala, Andheri (East), Mumbai-400 093, Maharashtra, India. Our registered office was relocated from the state of Goa to the state of Maharashtra, with effect from February 4, 2017. The telephone number of our registered office is (91) 022 6643 4500. The register of members of the Company is maintained at the registered office of the Company and also at the office of the Company’s Registrar and Transfer Agent, Karvy Computershare Private Limited, Hyderabad. Our website address is http://www.vedantalimited.com. Our agent for service of process in the United States is CT Corporation System and are located at 111 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10011.

Our equity shares are listed and traded on the NSE and the BSE. Our American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) are quoted on the NYSE (NYSE:VEDL). Our equity shares have been included in BSE Sensex, a diversified index of 30 Indian stocks listed on the BSE since July 28, 2008. Our equity shares continue to remain listed in Sensex after the completion of the Re-organization Transactions. Sesa Goa was a part of CNX Nifty (“Nifty”) since October 2010 and after the completion of the Re-organization Transactions, we continue to be a part of Nifty.

Our equity shares are beneficially held by the Twin Star, Finsider, Westglobe and Welter Trading, which are in turn wholly-owned subsidiaries of Vedanta. Twin Star, Finsider, Westglobe and Welter Trading held 37.11%, 10.80%, 1.19%, 1.03%, respectively, of our share capital as of March 31, 2018.

Sterlite Industries (India) Limited (SIIL) was incorporated in Kolkata, the state of West Bengal, India as Rainbow Investment Limited on September 8, 1975 under the laws of India. SIIL’s name was subsequently changed to Sterlite Cables Limited on October 19, 1976 and then to Sterlite Industries (India) Limited on February 28, 1986.

SIIL acquired the aluminium business through the acquisition of a 51.0% interest in BALCO from the GoI on March 2, 2001. The exercise of our call option to purchase the remaining 49.0% of the shareholding of GoI in BALCO is still under dispute.

On April 11, 2002, SIIL acquired, through Sterlite Opportunities and Ventures Limited (“SOVL”), a 26.0% interest in HZL from the GoI and a further 20.0% interest through an open market offer. On November 12, 2003, SIIL acquired through SOVL, a further 18.9% interest in HZL following the exercise of a call option granted by the GoI, increasing SIIL’s interest in HZL to 64.9%. In addition, SOVL has a call option which became exercisable on April 11, 2007 to acquire the GoI’s remaining ownership interest in HZL. The exercise of this option has been contested by the GoI and is still under dispute. As per the order of the High Court of Madras dated March 29, 2012, SOVL merged into SIIL.

In 2007, Vedanta Resources, through its subsidiaries, acquired 51.0% of Sesa Goa Limited from Mitsui Co. Ltd. which was subsequently increased to 55.13% by fiscal year 2013. Sesa Goa was incorporated as a private company under the laws of India in Panaji, state of Goa, India on June 25, 1965 as Sesa Goa Private Limited. It became a public limited company following a public offering of its shares in 1981. On December 8, 2011, Sesa Goa along with its subsidiary Sesa Resources Limited, completed the acquisition of 20.1% of the equity share capital of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business. Prior to the Cairn India Merger with the Company, Vedanta had a total ownership interest of 59.89% in Vedanta Limited (including equity interests held through its other subsidiary, TMHL).

On February 25, 2012, Vedanta announced an all-share merger of Sesa Goa and SIIL to create Sesa Sterlite and to give effect to the consolidation and simplification of Vedanta’s corporate structure through two series of transactions (together the “Re-organization Transactions” consisting of the “Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme” and the “Cairn India Consolidation”).

Pursuant to the share purchase agreement dated February 25, 2012 between BFL, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sesa Goa and VRHL, BFL acquired 38.68% shareholding in Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and an associated debt of $ 5,998 million by way of acquisition of TEHL, for a nominal cash consideration of $ 1 (“Cairn India Consolidation”).

On March 2, 2012, Sesa Goa acquired 100% of the equity share capital of Goa Energy Private Limited engaged in the business of power generation from Videocon Industries. The name was subsequently changed to Goa Energy Limited on January 4, 2013

Pursuant to the Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme effective on August 17, 2013, our name changed to Sesa Sterlite Limited with effect from September 18, 2013.

On August 19, 2013, Sesa Goa furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) a notice, as required under Rule 12g-3(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”) which provided that Sesa Goa was the successor issuer to SIIL under the Exchange Act. The Re-organization Transactions were made effective in the month of August 2013. In accordance with the Re-organization Transactions:

SIIL merged with and into Sesa Goa through the issue of Sesa Goa shares to SIIL shareholders (other than MALCO) on a 3 for 5 basis resulting in the issue of 1,944,874,125 Sesa Goa shares to SIIL shareholders. The holders of SIIL ADSs received 3 Sesa Goa ADSs for every 5 existing SIIL ADSs. The outstanding convertible bonds of SIIL have become convertible bonds of Sesa Goa with equivalent rights and obligations;

ii.

MALCO’s power business was sold to Vedanta Aluminium for cash consideration of ₹ 1,500 million;

iii.

MALCO merged with and into Sesa Goa through the issue of Sesa Goa shares to the shareholders of MALCO on a 7 for 10 basis, resulting in the issue of 78,724,989 Sesa Goa shares to the shareholders of MALCO and therefore MALCO’s holding in SIIL was cancelled;

iv.

Sterlite Energy merged with and into Sesa Goa for no consideration;

Vedanta Aluminium’s aluminium business merged with and into Sesa Goa for no consideration; and

vi.

Through a separate but concurrent amalgamation under Indian and Mauritian law, Ekaterina Limited, a Mauritian company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Vedanta which held Vedanta’s 70.5% ownership interest in Vedanta Aluminium, merged with and into Sesa Goa. SIIL held the remaining 29.5% of the shares of Vedanta Aluminium and upon this concurrent amalgamation scheme becoming effective, Vedanta Aluminium became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sesa Sterlite.

Further, the notice provided that the equity shares of Sesa Goa with a par value of ₹ 1 each, would be traded in the United States in the form of ADSs, where each ADS would represent four equity shares of Sesa Goa and such ADSs would be deemed to be registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act by operation of Rule 12g-3(a) under the Exchange Act. The ADSs of Sesa Goa were registered for trading on the NYSE on September 13, 2013. On September 23, 2013, Sesa Goa submitted to the SEC that the name of Sesa Goa Limited was changed to Sesa Sterlite Limited following the approval from the Registrar of Companies, state of Goa on September 18, 2013 Subsequent to the effectiveness of the Re-organization Transactions, a special leave petition challenging the orders of the High Court of Bombay at Goa was filed by the Commissioner of Income Tax, Goa and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs at the Supreme Court of India. Further, a creditor and a shareholder have challenged the Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme in the High Court of Madras. These petitions are pending for hearing and admission.

With effect from August 26, 2013, TEHL, TMHL and Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business (including all of its subsidiaries) became subsidiaries of Sesa Goa pursuant to the Cairn India Consolidation. As a result, Sesa Sterlite held 58.76% of the total shareholding of Cairn as of August 26, 2013. As of March 31, 2016, Vedanta Limited held 59.89% of the total shareholding of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business. During fiscal year 2015, Goa Energy Limited and Sterlite Infra Limited, wholly owned subsidiaries, merged with the Vedanta Limited. The High Court of Bombay had approved the scheme of amalgamation of the Goa Energy Limited on March 12, 2015 and the High Court of Madras had approved the Scheme of Amalgamation of Sterlite Infra Limited on March 25, 2015.

On April 22, 2015, Sesa Sterlite Limited submitted to the SEC regarding the name change to Vedanta Limited following the approval from the Registrar of Companies, Goa on April 21, 2015.

On June 14, 2015, the Company announced the merger of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business with the Company by way of a Scheme of Arrangement (the “Cairn India Merger”). Thereafter on July 22, 2016, the Company and Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business announced the revised terms to the Cairn India Merger. The National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai Bench approved the Cairn India Merger and their respective shareholders and creditors on March 23, 2017. Thereafter, the board of directors of the Company made the Cairn India Merger operative on April 11, 2017. As per the revised terms of the Cairn India Merger, the Company issued one equity share of face value ₹ 1 each and four 7.5% Redeemable Preference Shares in the Company with a face value of ₹ 10 each to the non-controlling shareholders of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business for each equity share held. No shares were issued to the Company or any of its subsidiaries for their shareholding in Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business. The Company continues to be listed on the BSE and NSE, with ADSs listed on the NYSE.

Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business shareholders who became the shareholders of Vedanta Limited, also received an interim dividend of ₹ 17.70 per equity share as approved by the board of the Company on March 30, 2017.

On December 28, 2017, Vedanta Limited acquired 51.6% equity shares in ASI, a Japanese manufacturer of LCD glass substrate for a cash consideration of ₹ 1 million ($ 0 million) and acquired debts for ₹ 9,640 million ($ 148 million). Additionally, a loan of ₹ 460 million ($ 7 million) was extended to ASI in fiscal year 2018.

Vedanta Limited was declared successful resolution applicant by the committee of creditors on March 31, 2018. Later in an appeal, the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) through its order dated May 30, 2018, allowed us to acquire ESL by depositing the upfront payment subject to the final order allowing that parties may act as per the approved resolution plan and clarified that in case the appeal is ruled against us, then the money shall be refunded. The cash consideration of ₹ 53,200 million has been deposited in an escrow account and we have obtained control of ESL management and hold 90% of the paid up share capital of ESL.

During fiscal year 2018, we have initiated the liquidation of TEHL, TMHL and SSMHL as part of internal restructuring.

B. Business Overview

OUR INDUSTRY

Unless otherwise indicated, all data relating to the zinc industry contained in this Annual Report is primarily derived from Wood Mackenzie, CRISIL and Bloomberg. Unless otherwise indicated, all data relating to the copper industries contained in this Annual Report is primarily derived from Wood Mackenzie. Unless otherwise indicated, all data relating to the aluminum industry contained in this Annual Report is primarily derived from CRU Aluminum Market Outlook (“CRU”). Unless otherwise indicated, all data relating to the oil and gas industry contained herein is primarily derived from World Energy Outlook, 2018 and the US Energy Information Administration. Unless otherwise indicated, all data relating to the iron ore industry contained herein is primarily derived from the World Steel Association and Resources and Energy Quarterly

Unless otherwise indicated, all financial and statistical data relating to the power industry in India in the following discussion is derived from the research presentations of India Brand Equity Foundation and Central Electricity Authority. The data may have been re-classified for the purpose of presentation.

Unless otherwise stated, the years mentioned in this disclosure contained herein are calendar years.

Market Review

Global economy and commodity markets

The global economy strengthened in 2017, registering a 3.8% growth according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Economic Outlook (WEO) April 2018. There was 0.5% increase in 2017 over the previous year and the fastest growth rate since 2011. This global uptick was driven by resilient growth in advanced economies combined with a continued pick-up in growth in emerging markets. Key drivers included an increase in investment spend, supported by an improved outlook and a rise in private consumption.

China’s economy grew at 6.9% in 2017, defying expectations of a slowdown, due to strong global demand and sustained state infrastructure spending. While the IMF expects a softening in growth in 2018, China will continue to play a key role in global metals markets given that it accounts for more than 50% of world metal consumption.

Commodity prices strengthened in 2017 and this continued through first half of 2018. Both demand and supply factors supported the broad-based price increases. The acceleration in global growth led to an increase in demand for commodities, while supply rationalization due to Chinese production cuts supported stronger commodity prices. Key risks to commodities in the short-term include enactment of additional tariffs, production cuts and sanctions.

Opportunities for Vedanta Limited

Global Growth

Global growth is expected to strengthen to 3.9% in both 2018 and 2019, a 0.2% upgrade for both years compared to the IMF’s October 2017 forecast. While growth prospects for advanced economies are likely to remain somewhat subdued going forward, growth in emerging markets and developing economies is expected to continue to increase, from 4.8% in 2017 to 4.9% in 2018, and 5.1% in 2019.

This global growth will lead to higher demand for metals and oil. Vedanta Limited’s diversified portfolio and attractive basket of commodities positions us well to take advantage of this projected uplift.

Tight Mine Supply

Market balance for certain commodities, in particular zinc and copper, is expected to remain tight due to limited investments in new projects, mine closures and higher than expected levels of demand.

Vedanta Limited is well-positioned to take advantage of these supply and demand factors, given the ramp-ups across businesses and the various growth projects underway.

Indian economy

India is a key market for Vedanta Limited and one which we believe has huge growth potential. According to IMF, the Indian economy grew 6.7% in 2017, accelerating from a relatively slower growth in the first half of the year due to the transitory effects of the currency exchange initiative.

A number of major reforms were undertaken in 2017. On July 1, 2017, India launched its biggest tax reform, the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The implementation of GST will help reduce internal barriers to trade and increase efficiency and tax compliance. GST eliminates cascading of taxes and encourages ‘Make in India’, thus driving growth momentum. In a separate reform, major stressed assets were marked for resolution under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016, to ensure a time-bound insolvency resolution, helping corporates clean balance sheets and reduce debt.

These policy measures have improved external confidence in the Indian economy and are set to provide a boost to economic growth. More importantly, they have enabled India to jump 30 places in the World Bank’s ease of doing business rankings and resulted in the first upgrade in its sovereign debt ratings for 14 years to ‘Baa2’ from ‘Baa3’.

Opportunities for Vedanta Limited

An India-focused growth agenda

India is now projected to grow by 7.4% in 2018 and 7.8% in 2019, maintaining its status as one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world, according to the IMF’s WEO of April 2018. In the medium-term, growth is expected to rise gradually as structural reforms continue to be implemented, raising productivity and incentivizing private investment. An amended Mines and Mineral Development and Regulation Act (“MMDRA”) in 2015 has clarified on the licensing arrangements around mining. Key regulatory reforms around opening commercial coal mining to the private sector and the launch of Open Acreage Licensing Policy (“OALP”) in the oil and gas sector to improve exploration are some of steps in the past year towards creating a more favorable mining environment.

Positive demographic factors such as an increasing workforce and urbanization are driving a greater need for infrastructure development. The GoI continues to invest in the infrastructure sector, having increased its spending in the Union Budget 2019. In September 2017, the GoI launched ‘Saubhagya’, a new scheme to ensure electrification of all remaining willing households in the country. In October 2017, the GoI launched ‘Bharatmala’, a new program to optimize efficiency of road traffic by bridging critical infrastructure gaps. Initiatives like these would be a major driver for economic growth.

Looking ahead, we expect to see a continued focus on and further investments in the infrastructure, transportation and power sectors. We also anticipate changes in government policy to incentivize domestic metal and energy production, and to reduce dependence on imports. These initiatives will lead to an increasing demand for domestically produced metals.

Vedanta Limited, as the only diversified natural resources company in India, is uniquely positioned to leverage India’s growth potential by catering to that demand. With such a vast domestic market, everything we produce in India, we aim to sell in India.

Zinc

Supply-side will hold the key

Zinc was one of the leading performers on LME in 2017, with prices increasing 38.0%. The year was marked by a sharp decline in finished goods stocks, which fell to a record low that were the equivalent of around six days of global consumption in 2017 and reduced zinc supply from China for most of the year. The combination of scheduled mine closures, strategic production cuts and the impact of environmental inspections in China depleted global stocks of zinc concentrate. The consequent constraints on refined production ensured that the rally in zinc prices that started in 2016 was sustained in 2017.

Mine supply is expected to increase in 2018 as projects including the Century Tailings project, Glencore’s Lady Loretta, Mineral Metal Group’s Dugald River and Vedanta Limited’s Gamsberg mines, are expected to add approximately 400-500kt of refined zinc this year, totaling about 13.7 million tons. However, zinc market fundamentals remain robust with global zinc consumption expected to grow by 2.5% to 14.8 million tons in 2018. This implies that the concentrate market will remain tight and refined metal stocks could further reduce significantly.

Products and customers

Vedanta Limited is the largest zinc producer in India, with a 78.0% market share in fiscal year 2018. Approximately 68.0% to 75.0% of the refined zinc produced is sold in the Indian market, primarily to steel companies, with the rest being exported to countries in Asia and the Middle East. Over 70.0% of Indian zinc consumption is used for galvanizing steel, predominantly in the construction and infrastructure sectors. We also produce zinc for use in die-casting alloys, brass and oxides and chemicals. Vedanta Limited’s Zinc International operations comprise Namzinc (Proprietary) Ltd in Namibia, which is the largest integrated zinc producer in Africa, as well as BMM in South Africa. Namzinc (Proprietary) Ltd produces refined zinc which is sold within Africa and exported to Europe and China, while concentrate from BMM is exported to traders and refiners internationally.

Market drivers and opportunities

There was a healthy increase in zinc consumption in the three major consuming regions namely Asia, Europe and North America in 2017. Demand growth in China from the real estate and automotive sectors, and the ‘One Belt One Road’ initiatives, was partly offset by the impact of pollution control measures.

Europe recorded a surprising revival in growth in industrial activity in Germany and France, driven by an uptick in domestic consumption along with a major push for technology and engineering product exports. With falling unemployment, rising federal rates and changing trade policies in the US, we are already witnessing higher consumption, along with fresh investments targeted at promoting exports.

In India, zinc consumption in the near-term will benefit from the ongoing restructuring of the steel industry and adherence to newly established IS277 coating standards. The alloys and die casting sector also witnessed robust growth, led by zinc-magnesium alloys. Demand from the automotive sector remains robust due to the rising penetration of galvanized steel in domestic cars.

Over the next five years, zinc demand in India will be a beneficiary of higher construction spending, which is expected to increase at around 10.0% compounded annual growth rate (“CAGR”) with projects under the metro rail, Smart Cities Mission and Swachh Bharat (Clean India) driving investments in urban infrastructure.

African zinc consumption is also significantly driven by the galvanizing industry, with end-use in the mining and construction sectors, and this represents a key market for us.

Production ramp-up at Zinc India and the Gamsberg project will enable us to benefit from the rising demand globally, particularly in India and Africa.

Oil and gas

Boosting Indian oil and gas production will drive future growth

High global demand and curtailed production by members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”), supported crude oil price increase in 2017, outweighing relatively high US crude oil production. As a result, crude oil prices ended in 2017 at US$ 65 per bbl, the highest level since 2015.

Both OPEC and non-OPEC countries have agreed to continue limiting output until the end of 2018. With the US pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal and triggering renewed sanctions on a key oil producing country, oil prices reached levels above $ 75 per bbl in May 2018.

Products and customers

Vedanta Limited’s operations produce crude oil, which is sold to hydrocarbon refineries, and natural gas which is used primarily by the fertilizer industry and power generation sector in India.

Market drivers and opportunities

US crude oil production continues to rise. The US Energy Information Administration (“EIA”) projects average US crude oil production of 10.8 million barrels per day in 2018 and 11.8 million barrels per day in 2019, surpassing the previous record of 9.6 million barrels per day set in 1970. Resilient US production will have an impact on oil prices going forward.

In India, 83.0% of oil consumption and 45.0% of gas consumption is met by imports. However, the GoI recognizes the need to boost domestic production to achieve greater energy security. To this end the GoI is targeting a 10.0% reduction in India’s imports of oil and gas by 2022 and have introduced a number of new policies aimed at attracting investment and boosting production.

In 2017, we saw the launch of OALP in the Indian oil and gas sector, giving companies the option to carve out their own exploration blocks without a formal bid round from the government and providing the opportunity for acreage acquisition for the first time in eight years. This process will help fast-track exploration and production in India.

India is under-explored, with only seven of the 26 sedimentary basins currently producing oil and gas. Further, reassessment of India’s resource base has highlighted an increase in India’s total hydrocarbon resources by close to 50.0%, providing significant growth opportunities.

Vedanta Limited, a strong believer in India’s resource potential has recently bid for all 55 blocks on offer in the first round of oil and gas auctions under the OALP.

As the largest private sector producer of crude oil in India, and with a strong track record and growth pipeline in exploration and development, Vedanta Limited is well positioned to benefit from the government’s desire to boost domestic production and to leverage India’s oil and gas resource potential.

Iron Ore

Growing steel consumption driving iron ore demand

Iron ore prices averaged $ 72 per dmt (62% Fe fines China CFR) in 2017, a rise of over 21.0% year on year, due to high steel margins and robust demand in China. Given high margins and low inventories, there is likely to be a growth in steel production and iron ore demand in the near-term.

The iron ore price is, however, expected to experience volatility in 2018, due to uncertainty regarding the lifting of winter production restrictions in China (which have been slow until now), the increase in low-cost supply from Australia and Brazil, and lower year on year demand growth from China. China’s steel production is sensitive to a range of economic, monetary and environmental policies, which could impact market dynamics and future iron ore prices.

Products and customers

Vedanta Limited was India’s largest private sector exporter of iron ore in fiscal year 2018. Iron ore is a key ingredient in steel production, which ultimately serves the construction, infrastructure and automotive sectors. In fiscal year 2018, approximately 53.0% of Vedanta Limited’s production, from Karnataka and Goa, was sold domestically to Indian steel producers and 47.0%, comprising low grade ore from Goa, was exported, primarily to Chinese steel mills.

Market drivers and opportunities

The pace of global steel production is forecast to slow in 2018 and 2019, as the supply cuts resulting from stringent environmental regulations in China outweigh a pick-up in growth elsewhere in the world.

In the short-term, globally, steel demand is projected to grow by 1.6% by 2019, while Indian steel demand is projected to grow by 6.6% to reach 115 million tons in 2019, driven by investment in infrastructure and construction. India is one of the lowest per capita steel consumers globally and produces only 10.0% of China’s steel production. However, India is on track to become the second largest steel producing country over the next two years, surpassing Japan. The ongoing restructuring and consolidation of the steel industry in India is expected to further support the growth of demand going forward. However, mining at Vedanta Limited’s Goa operations has ceased, effective from March 16, 2018 pursuant to the Supreme Court order dated February 7, 2018. Further we continue to engage with the Government to provide clarity around restarting the mining operations at Goa. Until its resumption, our ability to capitalize on the global demand remains muted.

This growth in Indian steel production represents an opportunity for us to grow our domestic iron ore sales. Vedanta Limited’s mining allocation at Karnataka has been recently increased to 4.5 million tons (from 2.3 million tons previously).

Copper

Consumption in India and China is fueling demand

Refined copper consumption grew by 2.1% in 2017, while demand in China, the largest consumer of copper, grew by 3.2%. Copper prices firmed up on the prospects of the US’s infrastructure plans and increased demand in China for appliances and consumer goods. In India, the refined copper market experienced some volatility during the year but is expected to continue growing on par with growth in the Indian economy.

On the supply side, after five consecutive years of growth, 2017 did not see any significant changes in supply. However, disruptions to production at Escondida, Cerro Verde and Grasberg, and further environmental cutbacks at smaller Chinese mines, led to 995kt of identified supply disruptions in 2017.

Products and customers

Refined copper is predominantly used in manufacturing cables, transformers and motors as well as castings and alloy-based products.

Vedanta Limited, with its 400 kt per annum custom smelter in Southern India, is the market leader in India with a market share for refined copper of approximately 33.0% as per International Copper Association (India). Copper business’s exports accounted for 49.0% of overall sales in fiscal year 2018 and were primarily to China and South East Asia.

Market drivers and opportunities for Vedanta Limited

Vedanta Limited expects to see continued demand growth in India and China in the coming years, driven by population growth, urbanization, the rise of the middle class and supported by government measures and initiatives. Additionally, demand for copper products feeding the electronics and automotive industries will support solid growth in the short to medium term in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.

Currently the copper plant operations at Tuticorin are suspended post the state government order on permanent closure of the plant. The Company is taking all the necessary steps to restart its operations.

Further, the increase in economic activity across the African continent, supported by governments’ desire to attract investments to the region, provides an opportunity to tap regional metal consumption growth. On the supply side, there is the potential for further industrial action at Latin American mines during 2018 as labor contracts are negotiated at Chilean and Peruvian copper mines, possibly leading to a fall in production.

Aluminium

Construction and transportation segments continue to drive demand

Aluminium demand excluding China grew by 4.0% year on year in 2017, while Chinese demand grew by 6.0% supported by the strong economic growth across most of the world economies.

The year 2017 turned out to be good for aluminium prices as a late year rally lifted prices by 33.0%, up $ 558 per ton from January 2017 levels and the second largest annual price increase this century. Aluminium LME prices rose by 21.0% compared to fiscal year 2017 owing to increases in raw material prices, expectations around supply reform in China and the implementation of trade tariffs in the US.

Products and customers

Vedanta Limited has the largest integrated smelter in India, with 2.3 mtpa proposed capacity, and is the market leader in primary aluminium with 40.0% market share. The product range includes ingots, primary foundry alloys, wire rods, billets and rolled products.

In fiscal year 2018, 40.0% of our sales were to the Indian market, specifically for use in the construction, electrical and transportation industries where government policies aimed at providing affordable housing were a significant driver of demand growth. International sales to our established customer base in other key Asian, European and American markets grew by 64.0 % to approximately 1 million tons, compared to fiscal year 2017.

Market drivers and opportunities

Globally, aluminium demand is forecasted to increase by 4.0% in 2018, driven primarily by ongoing demand in the construction and transportation segments. The advent of electric vehicles will further start to provide a new demand stream. In India, initiatives to increase investment and develop infrastructure continue to drive demand. India is also the world’s largest electrical applications market for aluminium and the electrification programmes driven by the government will drive the growth in aluminium consumption by 7.0% next year. The next wave of light weighting in the Indian railways combined with the ‘Make in India’ campaign will herald new growth opportunities for new investments in the aluminium downstream. Uncertainty from trade wars and geo-political events including sanctions on Russia have the potential to impact the aluminium and alumina markets globally.

Vedanta Limited continues to ramp up its Jharsuguda smelter and grow its production in order to take advantage of these opportunities. Vedanta Limited’s wire rod facility, which is the largest in the world is positioned to leverage the aluminium demand from electrification trends.

Power

Growth in Indian demand is driving capacity increases

Vedanta Limited operates a nine GW diversified power portfolio in India consisting of 96.0% thermal power and 4.0% from renewable energy sources.

India has the fifth largest power generation capacity in the world. Between fiscal year 2010 to 2017, electricity production grew at a CAGR of 7.0%, driven by government initiatives and schemes to increase electrification across rural India. A target to connect 18,452 villages to the power grid was achieved in April 2018.

Products and customers

Out of Vedanta Limited’s power portfolio, 40.0% is used for commercial power while 60.0% is for captive use. 92.0% of the power generated for commercial purposes is backed by long-term power purchase agreements with local Indian distribution companies.

Market drivers and opportunities

Demand for power in India is expected to grow rapidly from 1,160.1 TWh in fiscal year 2016 to 1,894.7 TWh by fiscal year 2022, primarily driven by the expansion in industrial activity, a growing population and increasing electricity penetration. The government has also been supportive of growth in the power sector, de-licensing the electrical machinery industry and allowing 100% foreign direct investment. In February 2018 the GoI permitted commercial mining for thermal coal, which will improve India’s self-sufficiency and reduce coal and logistics costs.

As of February 2018, India had total installed capacity of 334 GW, of which thermal constituted 220 GW, nuclear 6.8 GW, hydro 45 GW and renewables 63 GW. Total captive power installed capacity stood at 41GW.

India currently has a power deficit and is targeting an additional total of 100 GW under the GoI’s 13th Five Year Plan (fiscal year 2017-fiscal year 2022). The target for renewable energy has also been increased to 175 GW by 2022. Vedanta Limited’s power portfolio is well positioned to capitalize on India’s growing demand for power.

OUR BUSINESS

Overview

We are a globally diversified natural resources company with low cost operations. Our business is principally located in India. We have operations in India, South Africa, Namibia, U.A.E., Ireland, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Liberia and have over 18,000 employees worldwide. We are primarily engaged in zinc, oil and gas, iron ore, copper, aluminium and commercial power generation businesses and are also developing and operating port operation businesses and infrastructure assets. We have experienced significant growth in recent years through our various expansion projects for our copper, zinc and aluminium businesses and through acquisition of the zinc international and oil and gas businesses. We believe our experience in operating and expanding our businesses in India will allow us to capitalize on attractive growth opportunities arising from India’s large mineral reserves, relatively low cost of operations and large and inexpensive labor and talent pools. We believe we are also well-positioned to take advantage of the significant growth in industrial production and investments in infrastructure in India, China, Southeast Asia and the Middle East, which we expect will continue to generate strong demand for metals, oil and gas and power.

We are the leading and only integrated zinc producer with a 78.0% market share by sales volume of the Indian zinc market in fiscal year 2018, according to the ILZDA, and one of the three primary producers of aluminium with a 40% primary market share by production volume in India in fiscal year 2018, according to the Aluminium Association of India. Together with our joint operation partners, we account for approximately 25% of India’s domestic crude oil production as of March 31, 2018, according to the provisional data published by Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell of MoPNG. We are one of the two custom copper smelters in India with a 33.0% primary market share by sales volume in fiscal year 2018, according to the International Copper Association (India).

Zinc Business

Our fully-integrated Zinc India business is owned and operated by HZL. In 2018, HZL was one of the top four mining companies based on production volumes and in the lowest cost decile in terms of all zinc mining operations worldwide, according to Wood Mackenzie. In addition, HZL’s Rampura Agucha mine was the second largest zinc mine in the world on a production basis and its Chanderiya hydrometallurgical zinc smelter was the third largest smelter in the world on a production basis worldwide in 2018, according to Wood Mackenzie. We have a 64.9% ownership interest in HZL, with the remainder owned by the GoI (29.5%) and institutional and public shareholders (5.6%). We have exercised the second call option to acquire the GoI’s remaining ownership interest in HZL although the exercise is currently subject to dispute. HZL’s operations include five lead-zinc mines, one rock phosphate mine, four hydrometallurgical zinc smelters, two lead smelters, one pyrometallurgical lead-zinc smelter, eight sulphuric acid plants, six captive power plants in northwest India, refining and processing facilities for zinc at Haridwar and processing and refining facilities for zinc and lead, as well as a silver refinery at Pantnagar, both located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. HZL’s mines supply almost all of its concentrate requirements and HZL also exports surplus zinc and lead concentrates. The silver refinery of HZL has been added to the London Bullion Market Association’s (LBMA) good delivery list for silver with effect from April 16, 2018. HZL is India’s third refiner to be listed on LBMA. LBMA lists those refineries whose gold and silver bars have found, when originally tested, to meet the required standard for acceptability in the London bullion market.

Our Zinc International business comprises (i) 100% stake in Skorpion, which owns the Skorpion mine and refinery in Namibia and (ii) 74% stake in Black Mountain Mining, which owns the Black Mountain mine and the Gamsberg project in South Africa.

Oil and Gas Business

Pursuant to the Cairn India Merger which became effective on April 11, 2017, Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) was merged with Vedanta Limited. Our oil and gas business was previously owned and operated by Cairn India Limited. We are a significant contributor to India’s domestic crude oil production, contributing approximately 25% of the country’s production according to provisional data published by Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell of MoPNG as of March 31, 2018. We have a diversified asset base with six production and exploration blocks.

Iron Ore Business

We are engaged in the exploration, mining and processing of iron ore. In India, we owned or had the rights to reserves consisting of 45.9 million tons of iron ore at an average grade of 54.1%, as of March 31, 2018. In addition, we manufacture pig iron and metallurgical coke, and also operate two waste heat recovery plants of 30 MW each in Goa.

Our mining operations are carried out in the states of Goa and Karnataka, both of which became subject to suspension of mining activities due to alleged environmental and other violations by miners, which has adversely impacted our production of iron ore since August 2011. The suspension was imposed by the state government of Goa and this suspension was upheld by the Supreme Court of India on the mining activities in the state of Goa from September 2012 to April 2014 and a suspension imposed by the state government of Karnataka until April 2013. Although we resumed operations in Karnataka after receiving the stage I forest clearance from the state government of Karnataka and a temporary working permission from the Ministry of Environment and Forests (“MoEF”), the temporary working permission expired on July 31, 2014. Karnataka operations were halted for the period from August 1, 2014 to February 27, 2015. We resumed operations in Karnataka after all statutory clearances were in place from February 28, 2015. Following the Supreme Court of India’s order in April 2014, High Court of Bombay at Goa in August 2014 has pronounced the order to renew mining leases in Goa. The MoEF and the state government have also revoked their suspension orders subject to limits imposed by the Supreme Court, for renewal of the leases and consent to operate from the Government of Goa. In August 2015, our mining operations resumed in our principal mines after completion of necessary statutory formalities and fulfillment of conditions annexed by Supreme Court and the state government of Goa. The Supreme Court passed its final order in the matter on February 7, 2018 wherein it set aside the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the state of Goa. The Supreme Court directed all lease holders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (“MMDR”) Act. Our mines in the state of Goa were impacted consequent to the judgement of the Supreme Court.

We had also acquired the WCL iron ore project in Liberia, which is at the exploration stage, comprising Bomi hills, Bea Mountain and Mano river deposits.

Copper Business

Our copper business is principally one of custom smelters. Our assets include a smelter, a refinery, a phosphoric acid plant, a sulphuric acid plant, a copper rod plant and three captive power plants at Tuticorin in Southern India, a refinery and two copper rod plants in Western India, a precious metal refinery that produces gold and silver, a doré anode plant and a copper rod plant at Fujairah in the UAE. According to Wood Mackenzie, our Tuticorin smelter was one of the world’s top ten, in terms of production volumes in fiscal year 2018. We own the Mt. Lyell copper mine in Tasmania, Australia. The operation of Mt Lyell mine was suspended in January 2014, following a mud slide incident. Subsequently, the operations at Mt. Lyell copper mine has been placed under care and maintenance since July 9, 2014 following a rock falling on the ventilation shaft in June 2014.

The Government of Tamil Nadu has issued orders dated May 28, 2018 with a direction to permanently seal the existing copper smelter plant unit at Tuticorin. The Company has filed an appeal before National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench challenging the closure order for sealing of the existing plant. Separately, SIPCOT vide its letter dated May 29, 2018, cancelled 342.22 acres of the land allotted to us for the proposed Expansion Project. Further the TNPCB issued orders on June 7, 2018 directing the withdrawal of the Consent to Establish, which was valid till December 31, 2022.

Aluminium Business

Our aluminium business is based out of Chhattisgarh and Odisha. We operate the business in Chhattisgarh through BALCO, in which we have a 51.0% ownership interest, with the remainder owned by the GoI. BALCO, one of the four primary producers of aluminium in India, had a 22 % primary market share by production volume in India in fiscal year 2018 according to Aluminium Association of India. We have exercised our option to acquire the GoI’s remaining 49.0% ownership interest, although the exercise is currently subject to dispute. BALCO’s operations include two bauxite mines, 1410 MW power plants, a 245,000 tpa aluminium smelter and refining, smelting and fabrication facilities in Central India. BALCO’s operations benefit from relatively cost effective access to power, the most significant cost component in aluminium smelting due to the power-intensive nature of the process. This is to a considerable extent due to BALCO being an energy-integrated aluminium producer. BALCO has also set up a 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter, 84 pots of which commenced commercial production in September 2014. An additional 84 pots commenced commercial production on August 1, 2016 and the remaining 168 pots commenced commercial production on May 1, 2017.

Pursuant to re-auctioning of coal mines as per Coal Mines (Special Provisions), 2014, (now the “Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015”) conducted by the GoI in February 2015, BALCO was successful in securing one coal mine, namely the Chotia coal block.

Our aluminium operations in Odisha were earlier operated through Vedanta Aluminium Limited, which is now merged with Vedanta Limited pursuant to the Re-organization Transactions. The operations include 2.0 million tpa alumina refinery at Lanjigarh with associated 90 MW coal based captive power plant, 0.5 million tpa aluminium smelter together with an associated 1215 MW and 1800 MW (three units of 600 MW) coal based captive power plants at Jharsuguda. The alumina refinery at Lanjigarh was commissioned in March 2010 and second stream was restarted in April 2016 increasing the alumina refinery’s total capacity to 1.4 million tpa. We also capitalized a debottlenecking project for an alumina refinery in March 2017 increasing the refinery’s total capacity to 2 million tpa. We are currently in the process of ramping up our 1.25 million tpa smelter facilities in Jharsuguda. 82 pots were commissioned during fiscal year 2015, out of which 80 pots were capitalized on December 1, 2015 and a further ramp up recommenced on April 1, 2016. A total of 424 pots and 336 pots were capitalized during fiscal year 2017 and 2018 respectively. As of March 31, 2018, 840 pots have been capitalized out of 1,322 pots.

Power Business

We operate multiple power plants across locations in India. Our power business comprises of a 600 MW thermal power plant in Odisha, IPP 600 MW thermal power plants in Chhattisgarh, 274 MW wind power plants across India, 106.5 MW thermal power plant in Tamil Nadu and a 1980 MW thermal power plant in Punjab. We operated the 600 MW thermal coal-based commercial power facility at Jharsuguda through Sterlite Energy, which is now merged with Vedanta Limited pursuant to the Re-organization Transactions. In September 2006, Sterlite Energy entered into a power purchase agreement with Grid Corporation of Odisha Limited, a nominee of the state government of Odisha (“GRIDCO”).

In July 2008, Sterlite Energy succeeded in an international bidding process and was awarded the project for the construction of a 1980 MW (comprising three units of 660 MW each) coal-based commercial thermal power plant at Talwandi Sabo in the State of Punjab in India. The power plant was set up through Vedanta Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary TSPL. The first 660 MW and second 660 MW unit of the Talwandi Sabo power plant were capitalized in fiscal years 2015 and 2016 respectively. The third 660 MW unit was capitalized on September 1, 2016 after the successful completion of trial runs. Our power business also includes 274 MW of wind power plants operated by HZL and 106.5 MW power plant at MALCO situated at Mettur Dam in southern India. The MALCO plant has been put under care and maintenance from May 26, 2017.

In addition, BALCO has set up a thermal coal based power plant with a total capacity of 1200 MW, four units of 300 MW each, at Korba. The first two units are independent power plants and referred to as IPP 600 MW. The first 300 MW unit of the IPP 600 MW was capitalized on August 1, 2015 after the successful completion of trial runs. The second unit was commissioned and commenced commercial production on May 1, 2016.

Strategy

Our strategic goal is to become one of the top diversified natural resources company in the world, and our strategy is based on the following five key pillars:

Delivering profitable production growth across the portfolio

We view strict cost management and increases in productivity as fundamental aspects of our day to day operations and continuously seek to improve efficiency. We were in the lowest cost decile in terms of cost of production in our zinc mining operations worldwide in fiscal year 2018, according to Wood Mackenzie, and we intend to continue to improve our production processes and methods and increase operational efficiencies to further reduce our costs of production in all our businesses. Our current initiatives include:

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seeking improvements in operations to maximize throughput, mining and plant availability to achieve production increases at our existing facilities with minimum capital expenditures to optimize our asset utilization;

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reducing logistics costs through various initiatives;

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reducing energy costs and consumption, including through continued investment in advanced technologies to reduce power consumption in the refining and smelting processes and in captive power plants to provide the required power;

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a strong development and exploration effort seeking to increase reserves, particularly in our zinc and oil and gas business;

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building and managing our captive power plants to supply a majority of the power requirements of our operations;

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gaining access to relatively large and inexpensive labor and talent pools in India;

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increasing automation to reduce the manpower required for a given level of production volume;

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continuing to improve recovery ratios such that more finished product is obtained from a given amount of raw material;

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reducing purchase costs, including by entering into long-term contracts for raw materials, making investments in mining operations and optimizing the mix of raw material sourcing between long-term contracts and the commodities spot markets to address fluctuations in demand and supply;

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to enhance environmental clearance limits in Karnataka, and ramp up to full capacity;

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securing additional sources of coal through coal block allocations and coal linkages, which are long-term supply contracts for delivery of coal, for use in power plants;

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seeking access to bauxite mines for our aluminium business in Odisha;

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full capacity ramp up at the Jharsuguda-II;

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seeking better utilization of by-products, including through adding additional processing capabilities to produce end-products from the by-products that can be sold at higher prices and help lower the cost of production of our core metals. For example, silver and sulphuric acid are by-products of zinc and lead. We are one of the leading silver producers of the world, according to Wood Mackenzie;

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invest in a rich set of project portfolio comprising enhanced oil recovery projects, tight oil projects, tight gas projects and exploration prospects and project execution in partnership with global oil field service companies with a built-in risk and reward mechanism to derive incremental value from schedule and recoveries in oil and gas unit;

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evaluating additional opportunities to expand the exploration portfolio through participation in open acreage licensing policy;

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to deliver the Gamsberg project;

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ramp up production volumes of silver;

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to progress the brownfield expansion of underground mines of Rampura Agucha;

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to execute growth projects at oil and gas business;

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optimizing capex and prioritizing capital to high return, low risks project maximizing cash flows for providing the flexibility to invest further;

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to integrate the operations of Avanstarte Inc acquired during the fiscal year 2018; and

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to integrate the operations of Electrosteel Steels Limited.

Consolidation and simplification of the group structure

We are continuously seeking to increase our direct ownership of our underlying businesses to simplify and derive additional synergies and better align cash flows and debt as an integrated group by consolidating our corporate structure and integrating our operations. For example, during fiscal year 2017, we successfully completed our merger with Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) and during fiscal year 2018, we have initiated the liquidation of TEHL, TMHL and SSMHL as part of an internal restructuring. See “Item 8. Financial Information — B. Significant Changes”.

We own majority ownership interests in BALCO and HZL and have offered to acquire the remaining shares of both BALCO and HZL from the GoI. As on date, these offers have not been accepted by the GoI and therefore there is no certainty that these acquisitions will proceed. See “— Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO.”

Continuing to add reserves and resources for long-term value

Our acquisitions of HZL, BALCO, Sesa Resources Limited, Skorpion, Black Mountain Mining, Sterlite Energy, WCL and Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) have contributed substantially to our growth. We continually seek new growth and acquisition opportunities in the metals and mining and related businesses in India and elsewhere, including through government privatization programs, where we can leverage our skills and experience. We continue to closely monitor the resource markets in our existing lines of business as well as seek out opportunities in complementary businesses such as coal mining. We also intend to continue to seek out new exploration opportunities for future growth. By selecting opportunities for growth and acquisition carefully and leveraging our skills and experience, we seek to continue to expand our business while maintaining a strong balance sheet and good credit profile.

Accelerating cash flows and deleveraging

We aim to increase our cash flows from operations and decrease capital expenditures, and the indebtedness required to fund capital expenditures. As of March 31, 2018, our projects had an estimated total capital expenditure cost of ₹ 732,357 million ($ 11,248 million), of which ₹ 495,552 million ($ 7,611 million) had been incurred as of such date. Net cash from operating activities was ₹ 348,407 million ($ 5,351 million) in fiscal year 2018, a 64.3% increase from ₹ 212,105 million in fiscal year 2017. We paid interest of ₹ 57,880 million ($ 889 million) on our indebtedness in fiscal year 2018, a 6.7% decrease from ₹ 62,048 million in fiscal year 2017.

Protect and preserve license to operate

Health and safety continue to be a high priority for us and we are committed to protect and preserve our license to operate. Our business strategy is about ensuring that growth is maximized in a way that is both sustainable and responsive. The four core pillars—responsible stewardship, building strong relationships, adding and sharing values and strategic communication are designed to support the long term development, ensuring long lasting relationship and providing superior returns to all our stakeholders.

We are leading a ‘zero harm’ culture across the organization and we will continue to strengthen our strategy of responsible stewardship. We aim to focus on zero fatality and reduction in loss time injuries across the businesses.

Basis of Presentation of ore reserves

The reported metal reserves are defined as being either “ore reserves” if reported in accordance with the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and ore reserves, 2004 Edition, prepared by the Joint ore reserves Committee of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and Minerals Council of Australia (the “JORC Code”) or “mineral reserves” if reported in accordance with the South African Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves which sets out minimum standards, recommendations and guidelines for public reporting of exploration results, Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves in South Africa (the “SAMREC Code”). The meanings and definitions are the same. For convenience, we have standardized the term “ore reserves”. The results are reported in compliance with Industry Guide 7 of the US Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC.

The reported ore reserves of each mine are derived following a systematic evaluation of geological data and a series of technical and economic studies by our geologists and engineers.

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The ore reserves of HZL’s Rampura Agucha, Rajpura Dariba, Sindesar Khurd, Zawar and Kayad mines were audited by SRK Consulting (UK) Limited as of March 31, 2018.

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The ore reserves of Skorpion’s Skorpion mine are reviewed by AMC Consultants Pty Ltd as of March 31, 2018.

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The ore reserves of Black Mountain Mining’s Black Mountain mine and Gamsberg mine were derived from management estimates as of March 31, 2018.

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The proved oil, condensate, and sales-gas reserves of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business operated blocks were evaluated by DeGolyer and MacNaughton (“D&M”) as of March 31, 2018.

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The ore reserves of our iron ore mines in India were reviewed by SRK Consulting (UK) Limited as of March 31, 2018.

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The ore reserves of our iron ore mine in Liberia were audited by Roscoe Postle Associates Inc. as of April 6, 2014.

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The ore reserves of BALCO’s Mainpat and Bodai-Daldali bauxite mines were audited by Geo Solutions Private Limited as of March 31, 2018.

An “ore reserve” is the economically mineable part. It includes diluting materials and allowances for losses which may occur when the material is mined. Appropriate assessments and studies have been carried out, and include consideration of and modification by realistically assumed mining, metallurgical, economic, marketing, legal, environmental, social and governmental factors. These assessments demonstrate that at the time of reporting that extraction could reasonably be justified. Ore reserves are sub-divided in order of increasing confidence into probable ore reserves and proven ore reserves.

In addition to the ore reserves we have identified further mineral deposits as either extensions of or additions to our existing operations that are subject to ongoing exploration and evaluation.

Our Zinc India Business

Overview

Our Zinc India business is owned and operated by HZL. HZL’s fully-integrated zinc operations include five lead-zinc mines, one rock phosphate mine, four hydrometallurgical zinc smelters, two lead smelters, one pyrometallurgical lead-zinc smelter, eight sulphuric acid plants and six captive power plants at our Chanderiya, Dariba and Zawar facilities in the state of Rajasthan, processing and refining facilities for zinc at Haridwar and refining and processing facilities for zinc and lead, as well as a silver refinery at Pantnagar, both located in the State of Uttarakhand in northern India. HZL sources all of its concentrate requirements from its mines. HZL’s operations also includes 16.2 MW solar power projects installed at its Debari and Dariba complexes and a 35.4 MW waste heat recovery power plant adjunct to its captive power plants.

We first acquired an interest in HZL in April 2002 and have since then significantly improved its operating performance through expansion and by improving operational efficiencies and reducing unit costs.

HZL pays royalties to the state government of Rajasthan based on its extraction of lead-zinc ore. With effect from September 2014, the royalty rate increased from 8.4% to 10.0% of the LME zinc metal price payable on the zinc metal contained in the concentrate produced and from 12.7% to 14.5% of the LME lead metal price payable on the lead metal contained in the concentrate produced. For silver, HZL pays royalty at a rate of 7% of the silver LBMA price chargeable on silver-metal produced. The royalties we pay are subject to change. Further, the MMDRA Amendment Act, notified towards the end of fiscal year 2015, notifies an amount not exceeding royalty, to be contributed to the DMF for the benefit of people affected by mining and an additional 2% of royalties to the NMET. DMF contribution has now been notified at 30% of base royalty rates. See “Item. 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Industry—Changes in tariffs, royalties, cess, customs duties, export duties and government assistance may reduce our Indian market domestic premium, which would adversely affect our profitability and results of operations”.

We have a 64.9% ownership interest in HZL, with the remainder owned by the GoI (29.5%) and institutional and public shareholders (5.6%). We have exercised the second call option by a letter dated July 21, 2009 to acquire the GoI’s remaining ownership interest in HZL although the exercise is currently subject to dispute. See “—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO—Call Options over shares in HZL”.

Principal Products

Zinc

We produce and sell zinc ingots in all four international standard grades: Special High Grade (SHG—99.995%), High Grade (HG—99.95%), Continuous Galvanising Grade (CGG —99.5%) and Prime Western (PW—98.0%). We sell most of our zinc ingots to Indian steel producers for galvanizing steel to improve its durability. Some of our zinc is also sold to alloy, dry cell battery, die casting and chemical manufacturers.

Lead

We produce and sell primary lead ingots of 99.99% and 99.97% purity primarily to battery manufacturers and to a small extent to chemical manufacturers.

By-products

Sulphuric Acid

Sulphuric acid is a by-product of our zinc and lead smelting operations. We sell sulphuric acid to fertilizer and cement manufacturers and other industries.

Silver

Silver occurs naturally in our zinc and lead ore and is a by-product of our lead smelting operations. We produce and sell silver ingots primarily to industrial users and traders of silver.

Lead-Zinc Mines

HZL normally sources all of the lead-zinc ore required for its business from its Rampura Agucha open-pit and underground mines at Rampura Agucha, Zawar, Rajpura Dariba, Sindesar Khurd and Kayad in the state of Rajasthan in northwest India. Lead-zinc ore extracted from the mines is conveyed to beneficiation plants that process the ore into zinc and lead concentrates. With its good ore mineralogy providing a high metal recovery ratio, the Rampura Agucha mine including its satellite Kayad mine accounted for 61.1% of HZL’s total mined metal in zinc and lead concentrate produced in fiscal year 2018, with the Zawar, Rajpura Dariba and Sindesar Khurd mines accounting for the remaining 8.0%, 4.5% and 26.4%, respectively. The zinc and lead concentrates are then transported by road to the nearby Chanderiya, Dariba and Debari smelters.

Our mining capacities are governed by reserve and resources, mine plan and environmental clearances. Based on such approvals, the capacities are approximately 6.2 mtpa, 4.0 mtpa, 4.5 mtpa, 0.9 mtpa and 1.2 mtpa, for the Rampura Agucha mine, the Zawar mine, the Sindesar Khurd mine, the Rajpura Dariba mine and the Kayad mine respectively, in fiscal year 2018.

Zinc Smelters

HZL has two types of zinc smelters, namely hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical. Four of HZL’s smelters are hydrometallurgical and one is pyrometallurgical.

The hydrometallurgical smelting process is a roast, leach and electrowin (“RLE”) process. Zinc concentrate is first oxidized in the roaster and the gases generated are cleaned and sent to the sulphuric acid plant. The primary output from the roaster, called calcine, is sent to the leaching and purification plant to produce purified zinc sulphate. The purified zinc solution then goes through an electrolysis process to produce zinc cathodes. Finally, the zinc cathodes are further processed and casted into zinc ingots at the processing and refining facilities in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India.

The pyrometallurgical smelter uses the imperial smelting process or ISP^TM, in which process starts with sintering, to remove the sulphur from concentrate and then the generated gases are cleaned and sent to the sulphuric acid plant. The output of the sinter machine is fed into an imperial smelting furnace to smelt with preheated metallurgical coke and air. During the smelting process, molten lead is extracted from bottom of the imperial smelting furnace and zinc rises up as vapor. Then the vapor is condensed in molten lead bath. The molten lead is cooled to separate out the zinc, which is then passed through a refining process to remove impurities and pure zinc metal is casted into ingots. The lead removed through this process is sent to the refinery to produce pure lead metal. In this process, silver is also produced as a by-product which is sent to our facilities in Uttarakhand for refining and casting into silver ingots.

Lead Smelters

HZL has two lead smelters, one in Chanderiya and the other in Dariba. The smelter in Chanderiya uses Ausmelt™ technology and the other smelter in Dariba uses Shuikoushan Smelting Technology or SKS oxygen bottom blowing technology. There is also a lead-zinc smelter at Chanderiya which uses the pyrometallurgical imperial smelting furnace process.

HZL’s lead smelter located in Dariba is based on SKS oxygen bottom blowing technology, where lead concentrate is smelted directly in the SKS furnace along with fluxes. SKS furnace produces lead bullion and slag. SKS furnace slag is then reduced in blast furnace to produce bullion. Lead bullion produced in these processes is then treated in the lead refinery plant to produce high purity electrolytic grade lead cathodes through electrolysis. The lead cathodes are further processed and casted into ingots at the processing and refining facilities in the state of Uttarakhand. Slag from blast furnace is fumed to produce zinc oxide dust. Off-gas containing sulphur dioxide gas is cleaned and treated in the sulphuric acid plant. HZL’s lead smelter located in Chanderiya is based on Top Submerged Lance, or TSL technology where lead concentrate is smelted directly in a vertical furnace along with flux. Lead bullion produced in this process is then treated in the lead refinery plant to produce high purity lead ingots. Off-gas containing sulphur dioxide gas is then cleaned and treated in the sulphuric acid plant.

Finishing and Delivery to Customers

The zinc and lead cathodes are transported from its hydrometallurgical plants in Rajasthan to its facilities in Uttarakhand in northern India where they are further processed into zinc and lead ingots. One of the residues from smelting is anode slime and another is high grade lead material, both of which are also transported to the Uttarakhand facilities and from which silver is processed and casted into silver ingots. The facilities in Uttarakhand process and refine zinc, lead and silver and distribute the finished products nationwide, making it a centralized finished goods center for our customers. Zinc and lead ingots are also shipped from the facilities in Uttarakhand for exports, although some quantities of zinc and lead ingots are also produced in Rajasthan for both domestic and export customers. The sulphuric acid by-product is sold ex-works from its facilities in Rajasthan to customers in India.

Principal Facilities

Overview

The following map shows the locations of HZL’s facilities in the State of Rajasthan:

LOGO

Mines

Rampura Agucha

The Rampura Agucha lead-zinc mine is located near Gulabpura in the North-west State of Rajasthan.

The good ore mineralogy of the mine provides a high metal recovery ratio and a low overall cost of production for zinc concentrate extracted from the mine. The mining and processing facilities are modern and in good condition.

The ore body is currently mined by underground methods. The open pit operation ceased from the end of March 2018. The capacity of the mine and concentrator was expanded between 2003 and 2010 to 6.2 mtpa for mine and 6.5 mtpa for mill through the purchase of additional mining equipment, upgrades to the truck fleet, improvements to the operational efficiency of the plant and the installation of a new semi-autogenous or SAG, mill and ball mill circuit.

Open pit mining at Rampura Agucha is a simple drill and blast, load and haul sequence using 221 metric tons trucks and 34 cubic meter excavators. In the underground mines, the ore body is mined by long hole open stoping with pastefill, cemented rock fill or rock fill method and loading hauling sequence by using 60 ton truck and a 17 ton loader. Ore is fed to the primary crusher and waste is disposed at the waste dump. The mining equipment is largely owner-operated. The processing facility is a conventional crushing, milling and differential lead-zinc floatation plant. Ore from the open-pit and underground is crushed in a series of crushing circuits and then milled in four streams. The zinc and lead concentrates produced are sent to the different smelters of HZL and the tailing portion goes to the tailings dam after thickening.

Since 2004, exploration at Rampura Agucha has resulted in significant increases in the reserves at the mine. Following an extensive drilling program to convert mineralized material to reserves, better definition of the ore body boundaries, addition of mineralized material and the conduct of open-pit re-optimization, as well as the commencement of underground mine project work, the reserves were 46.0 million tons as of March 31, 2018 with an average grade of 13.8% zinc, 1.9% lead and 64 ppm silver net off. The drill spacing for the definition of proven reserves were approximately 50 meters by 50 meters while for probable reserves was 100 meters by 100 meters. HZL commenced production at the mine in 1991. Since inception, approximately 79.2 million tons of ore, with an ore grade of 12.4% zinc and 1.8% lead, have been extracted from the open-pit mine and approximately 4.5 million tons of ore, with an ore grade of 11.1% zinc and 1.5% lead, have been extracted from underground mine. As planned, open pit mine operation has ceased from the end of March 2018, and underground mine operations are continuously ramping up in sustaining ore production from Rampura Agucha.

As of March 31, 2018, HZL estimates the remaining mine life at Rampura Agucha to be 10 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan. According to JORC reserves and resources statement, the proven and probable reserves for the Rampura Agucha mine as of March 31, 2018 is 46.0 million tons with 13.8% zinc, 1.9% lead and 64 particles per million silver net off.

In fiscal year 2018, 1.8 million tons of ore at 11.8% zinc and 1.7% lead were mined from the Rampura Agucha open pit, which produced 204,299 tons of mined zinc metal in concentrate and 18,865 tons of mined lead metal in concentrate. Approximately 16.1 million tons of waste was removed giving a strip ratio of 9.1 tons of waste per ton of ore mined. Our Rampura Agucha mine transitioned completely from open pit to underground mine production in end of March 2018. During fiscal year 2018, the Rampura Agucha underground mine produced 2.1 million tons of ore with 11.1% zinc and 1.5% lead. It produced 225,258 tons of zinc metal in concentrate and 18,816 tons of lead metal in concentrate. The main shaft has completed up to a depth of 950 meters as planned with completion of the north and south vent.

The gross book value of the Rampura Agucha mine’s fixed assets and mining equipment (including assets related to the Rampura Agucha’s underground mining operations and the Kayad mine) was ₹ 61,451 million ($ 944 million) as of March 31, 2018. The mining lease of Rampura Agucha mine is valid up to March 2030.

Power is primarily supplied from the HZL’s captive thermal power plants with two backup 5 MW generators on-site.

Rajpura Dariba

Rajpura Dariba is a medium sized underground lead-zinc mine and processing facility located northeast of Udaipur in the Rajsamand district in the state of Rajasthan, northwest India.

Mining at Rajpura Dariba commenced in 1983 and is carried out using the vertical crater retreat method and blasting hole mining method with mined out stopes backfilled with cemented classified mill tailings. In certain areas the ground conditions adversely affect slope stability and dilution. These ground conditions are the result of the weak graphitic nature of the shear zone combined with the dissolution of fractured and sheared dolomites by percolating acidic groundwater derived for overlying adjacent oxidized zones. HZL’s Rajpura Dariba’s mine lease is valid until May 2030. The mine is serviced by two vertical shafts approximately 600 meters deep. The main shaft is 6 meters in diameter and the auxiliary shaft is 4.5 meters in diameter. The main shaft has the capacity to hoist 0.7 mtpa of ore and is equipped with a modern multi-rope koepe winder. All personnel and materials are hoisted in a large counterbalanced cage which is operated by the koepe winder. The surface infrastructure includes ventilation fans, compressors and ore loading facilities. A 2.2 km surface decline was commissioned in September 2013 to increase the ore production.

The ore is crushed underground before being piled on the surface. It is then crushed again and milled before undergoing a lead flotation process to get final lead concentrate. Lead flotation tails are sent to the zinc flotation process to get final zinc concentrate. In one flotation the zinc rougher concentrate is being cleaned in column flotation cells. Then zinc flotation tails proceed to a backfill plant where these are cycloned with the underflow proceeding to intermediate storage where cement is added in preparation for use as underground fill. The cyclone overflow is thickened to recover water ahead of disposal in the tailings dam. The final lead and zinc concentrates are thickened, filtered and stored before they are sent to HZL’s smelters.

Power for the mine is supplied largely from HZL’s 160 MW captive power plants at Dariba and through a contract with a state-owned entity.

The gross book value of the Rajpura Dariba mine’s fixed assets and mining equipment is approximately ₹ 7,435 million ($ 114 million) as of March 31, 2018.

As of March 31, 2018, HZL estimates the remaining mine life at Rajpura Dariba to be around 5 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan. According to JORC reserves and resources statement, the proven and probable reserves for the Rajpura Dariba mine as of March 31, 2018 is 9.3 million tons with 4.9% zinc, 1.7% lead and 49 particles per million silver net off. An exploration program is also underway to identify new resources with the potential to be upgraded to reserves and continues to be focused on maintaining the reserve position after annual mining depletion. The drill spacing for proved reserves was approximately 30 meters while for probable reserves was less than 60 meters.

The average grade for each individual stope was defined using standard parameters for internal waste and dilution and a geological cut-off grade of 3.0% combined lead and zinc, though the mineralization generally has a sharp natural contact. The in-situ quantities and qualities were adjusted by applying a mining loss factor of 10.0%, a dilution factor of between 12.0% and 20.0% depending on ground conditions. These parameters are based on a reconciliation of historical production. Stopes with average grades below this economic cut-off grade were excluded from the reserve estimate. The final reserve estimate is the sum of the stopes with an average grade above the economic cut-off limit. As the stopes are all accessed using the existing infrastructure and as there is sufficient capacity on the tailings dam, the capital expenditure was limited to the replacement of mining equipment and was therefore considered not to have a material impact on the cut-off grade.

In fiscal year 2018, 0.9 million tons of ore at a grade of 4.8% zinc and 1.1% lead ore was mined at Rajpura Dariba mine which produced 35,704 tons of zinc metal in concentrate and 6,721 tons of lead metal in concentrate.

Sindesar Khurd

The Sindesar Khurd mine is a large scale underground mine deposit that was explored during 1992 to 1995. Mine production began at the Sindesar Khurd mine in April 2006 and HZL’s mining permit is valid until March 2049.

The Sindesar Khurd mine lies on the same geological belt as the Rajpura Dariba mine. The mine is approachable from Rajpura Dariba mines by road.

The mineralization has been traced over almost 2.5 kilometers along strike and 1.3 kilometer vertical extension. In the mine area, dip is steep westerly, while the dip turns into easterly direction in the lower-southern part of the deposit. The current “mine block” extends over 1,500 meters along strike and up to 570 meters depth extension.

The deposit has been drilled to a depth of approximately 1300 meters below surface and the ore body is traced over approximately 2 kilometers along the strike with an 1100 meters vertical extension. While the deposit is still open in depth in the southern extension of the present mine block, the area below the mine block and towards the north extension only has narrow and low to moderate grade mineralization intersected.

Exploration at the south part of Sindesar Khurd has been continuing since March 2005 with a drilling program aimed at increasing the size of the ore body. A continuous exploration program from underground is also underway with the aim to upgrade the reserve status so that the stopes planned to be mined out shall be extracted with maximum recovery and thereby reducing mining losses. The drill spacing for proven reserves was 12.5 to 25 meters while for probable reserves was less than 25 to 50 meters.

According to JORC reserves and resources statement, the proven and probable reserves for the Sindesar Khurd mine as of March 31, 2018 is 34.6 million tons with 4.0% zinc and 3.0% lead and 164 particles per million silver net off.

Access to the mine is through an incline shaft and declines (North and South) from the surface while ore is hauled through the declines by low profile dump trucks or LPDTs. The ore body is accessed via horizontal drives on number of levels. The mine currently utilizes blast holes toping with back filling mining method with stope panels varying from 25 to 50 meters in strike.

Ore produced from the mine is treated at 2.0 mmtpa beneficiation plant commissioned in 2011 at Sindesar Khurd. The beneficiation plant underwent debottlenecking in January 2015 to increase its capacity from 2 to 2.8 mtpa at Sindesar Khurd. Lead and zinc concentrates are sent to their respective high rate thickeners installed separately for lead concentrate and zinc concentrate generated from the concentrator. At Sindesar Khurd mine, the new 1.5 mtpa capacity beneficiation plant was commissioned in January 2017 which has increased the mine’s total beneficiation capacity to 4.3 mtpa. Tailing dewatering and disposal section comprises of hydro cyclone, tailing thickener, neutralization tank, pumping of tailing to tailing pond and reclaimed water pumping. Lead and zinc concentrates are thickened, filtered and stored before they are sent to HZL’s smelters.

The gross book value at this mine is approximately ₹ 40,027 million ($ 615 million) as of March 31, 2018.

As of March 31, 2018, HZL estimates the remaining mine life at Sindesar Khurd to be around 6 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan.

Power for the mill and the mine is supplied from HZL’s captive power plant located at Dariba itself.

In fiscal year 2018, 4.5 million tons of ore at a grade of 4.0% zinc and 2.1% lead ore was mined at the Sindesar Khurd mine. From the ore produced at Sindesar Khurd mine, 165,232 tons of zinc metal in concentrate and 84,857 tons of lead metal in concentrate was produced in fiscal year 2018.

Zawar

Zawar consists of four mines namely, Mochia, Balaria, Zawar Mala and Baroi. The deposit is located near Udaipur city, in the state of Rajasthan in northwest India. The deposits lie within a 36.2 square kilometers mining lease granted by the state government of Rajasthan which is valid until March 31, 2030.

The mineralization ranges over 2.5 to 3.0 kilometers each at Mochia, Balaria and Baroi mines each and 0.6 kilometers at Zawarmala mine. The mineralization ranges below 1 kilometer vertically, while the deposit is still open in depth. An exploration program from the surface and underground is ongoing for lateral and depth extension along with upgrading the resource to reserve.

The mines are accessed through adit, shaft and declines from the surface, while ore is hauled through decline by LPDTs, shaft and locomotives. The ore body is accessed through horizontal drives on a number of levels. The mine currently utilizes a sub-level open stoping mining method with stope sizes ranging from 60 to 80 meters in strike.

According to JORC reserves and resources statement, the proven and probable reserves for the Zawar mine as of March 31, 2018 is 10.4 million tons with 3.0% zinc and 2.1% lead and 31 particles per million silver net off.

Ore produced from the mine is treated at a beneficiation plant at Zawar mines for differential or bulk flotation of zinc and lead metals. The beneficiation plant is undergoing debottlenecking to increase its capacity from 1.5 to 2.7 mtpa. The ore is primarily crushed underground and then hoisted to the surface or crushed at the surface and then transported to beneficiation plant. Thereafter the ore is crushed to 12 to 15 mm in size before being milled to 74 microns. Tailing dewatering and disposal section comprises of hydro cyclone, tailing thickener, pumping of tailings to tailing pond and reclaimed water pumping for reuse. Lead and zinc concentrates are thickened, filtered and then stored before they are sent to HZL’s smelters.

In fiscal year 2018, approximately 2.2 million tons of ore mined at 2.5% zinc and 2.0% lead, which produced 41,334 tons of zinc metal in concentrate and 34,337 tons lead metal in concentrate.

The gross book value of the Zawar fixed assets and mining equipment was approximately ₹ 13,176 million ($ 202 million) as of March 31, 2018 and of the 80 MW coal-based thermal captive power plant at Zawar was ₹ 3,245 million ($ 50 million).

Power is supplied through a combination of an 80 MW thermal coal-based captive power plant commissioned in December 2008 and a 6 MW captive power plant.

As of March 31, 2018, HZL estimates the remaining mine life of the Zawar mine to be 3 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan. The focus of underground mine exploration at Zawar is to enhance the ore reserves to expand the mine life by 5 years and to identify new mineralized areas to enhance production capacity. A surface drilling program is underway to locate deeper resources below 100 meter reduce level up to 500 meter reduce level. Underground exploratory drilling is carried out on a grid of between 25 to 30 meters which is then infilled to 12.5 or 15 meters after completing the development for final delineation of ore bodies. Past exploration has outlined additional in-mine mineral resources which require further delineation to add to reserves and further extend the mine life.

Kayad Mine

The Kayad lead-zinc mine is located in Ajmer, in the state of Rajasthan.

The Kayad lead-zinc deposit was initially prospected by Airborne Mineral Survey and Exploration wing of Geological Survey of India and drilling commenced in August 1988 and was completed in December 1991. The detailed exploration of Kayad deposit was commenced by HZL in the month of June 1999 and continues with a total of 178 kilometers in 1,132 drill holes. According to the reserve report, the proven and probable reserves for Kayad mine as on March 31, 2018 was 5.5 million tons at 5.6% zinc and 0.8% lead. As of March 31, 2018, HZL estimates the remaining mine life of the Kayad mine to be over 5 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan.

The ground breaking of the mine commenced on June 11, 2011. The access is through a decline which then divides into two declines at 420 meter reduce level. Development ore production was achieved in the second quarter of fiscal year 2013, and the mine started operations in fiscal year 2014. The mining method practiced in Kayad is long hole open stoping with cemented rock filling or rock filling in the steeper portions of the deposit; while transverse stoping method at flat portion along with cemented rock filling or rock filling. About 47 kilometers of development is planned by 2021. The mining is highly mechanized with twin boom jumbo drills used for face drilling, rock bolting machines used for support and 17 tons and 21 tons diesel load haul dump vehicles coupled with 30 tons, 50 tons and 60 tons low profile dump trucks for loading and hauling. For production, drilling Simba and Solo Drills are being used. The run of mine is stacked in the surface ore stock pile and transported by trucks to the Rampura Agucha mine for beneficiation.

A mine lease of 480.5 hectares was granted to Kayad mine by the state of Rajasthan and is valid until February 2048, subject to further renewal. We have obtained surface land rights over 49.8 hectares. We have also obtained mine plan approval from the Indian Bureau of Mines and received environmental clearance from the MoEF for an increase in lead zinc ore production capacity from 1.0 mtpa to 1.2 mtpa. We have also obtained consents under various environmental laws to operate the mine, including from the State Pollution Control Board.

In fiscal year 2018, 1.2 million tons of ore at a grade of 8.7% zinc and 1.2% lead ore was mined at Kayad mine which produced 101,183 tons of zinc metal in concentrate and 10,777 tons of lead metal in concentrate.

A 33 KV power line was commissioned on February 2, 2012 to meet the constructional power requirements of the mine. Currently, most of the power is being taken from captive power plant in Zawar and some power is taken from state grid. A one megavolt amperes diesel generator is kept as a backup power supply for emergency operations in the event of power failure. For proper power distribution, a two megavolt amperes underground sub-station is commissioned in each of the north and south sections.

Summary of Mine Reserves

The following table sets out HZL’s proven and probable zinc and lead reserves as of March 31, 2018:


	Proven Reserves								Probable Reserves								Total Proven and Probable Reserves								Vedanta Limited Ownership		Reserve Life
Mine	Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver Grade		Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver Grade		Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver Grade
	(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		%		Years
Rampura Agucha		14.2		11.5		1.6		50		31.8		14.9		2.0		70		46.0		13.8		1.9		64				10
Rajpura Dariba		3.7		5.9		1.6		59		5.6		4.3		1.7		42		9.3		4.9		1.7		49				5
Sindesar Khurd		12.8		4.3		3.0		179		21.8		3.8		3.0		155		34.6		4.0		3.0		164				6
Zawar		3.6		2.6		2.6		29		6.8		3.2		1.8		31		10.4		3.0		2.1		31				3
Kayad		4.5		5.9		0.8		21		0.9		4.0		0.6		12		5.5		5.6		0.8		19				5
Total		38.8		7.1		2.1		88		66.9		9.0		2.3		90		105.8		8.3		2.2		89		64.9

References to “g/t” are grams per ton

Additional information:

(1)

The reserve estimates for each of the mines have been prepared by the mining engineer of the respective operation and the same have been audited by SRK Consulting (UK) Limited. The reserves presented for the HZL mines have been adjusted to incorporate losses for mine dilution and mining recovery according to the JORC code.

(2)

The dynamic cut-off grade in terms of zinc equivalent was used for calculating reserves and resources. The zinc equivalent cut-off grade for (i) Rampura Agucha mine is 3.4% for main lens and 2.7% for galena lenses (lead equivalent), (ii) Rajpura Dariba is 2.8%, (iii) Sindesar Khurd is 1.7%, (iv) Zawar is 3.8% and (v) Kayad Mines is 2.7%.

(3)	The metallurgical recovery factor for the following HZL mines is as follows:


Mine	Metallurgical Recovery Factor

Rampura Agucha
Zinc		89.8%
Lead		60.7%
Rajpura Dariba
Zinc		83.9%
Lead		69.8%
Sindesar Khurd
Zinc		90.9%
Lead		87.9%
Zawar
Zinc		78.6%
Lead		74.8%

(4)	The commodity price for zinc, lead and silver considered for the evaluation of reserves is $ 2,200 per ton, $ 1,900 per ton and $ 18 per oz, respectively. The currency conversion factor used to estimate the reserves was US dollar per Indian Rupee 64.6.

(5)	The reserve quantities disclosed are for the entire mine.

Smelters

Overview

The following table sets forth the total capacities as of March 31, 2018 at HZL’s Chanderiya, Debari, Zawar, Dariba and Pantnagar facilities:


	Capacity
Facility	Zinc		Lead		Silver		Sulphuric Acid		Captive Power
	(tpa)		(tpa)		(tpa)		(tpa)		(MW)
Chanderiya(1)		535,000		85,000		—		828,500		247.7
Debari		88,000		—		—		419,000		7.4
Zawar		—		—		—		—		80.0
Dariba		220,000		116,000		—		710,500		174.3
Pantnagar		—		—		600		—		—
Total		843,000		201,000		600		1,958,000		509.4

(1)

The plant at Haridwar is a refining and processing facility for zinc ingots from zinc cathodes produced at the Chanderiya and Dariba smelters. The processing plant at Pantnagar is a refining and processing facility for zinc and lead ingots from zinc and lead cathodes produced at the Chanderiya and Dariba smelters. Therefore, their production capacities do not increase the total production capacity of HZL’s facilities.

Chanderiya

The Chanderiya facility is located approximately 120 kilometers east of Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan. The facility contains 4 smelters, 3 associated captive power plants and 3 sulphuric acid plants:

•

an ISP™ pyrometallurgical lead-zinc smelter with a capacity of 105,000 tpa of zinc and 35,000 tpa of lead that was commissioned in 1991;

•

two RLE hydrometallurgical zinc smelters with a capacity of 170,000 tpa and 220,000 tpa that were commissioned in May 2005 and December 2007. Pursuant to the improvement in operational efficiencies which was completed in April 2008, one of the two zinc smelting capacity of 170,000 tpa increased by 40,000 tpa to 210,000 tpa;

•

an Ausmelt™ lead smelter with a capacity of 50,000 tpa that was commissioned in February 2006;

•

associated 154 MW (2 captive plants of 77 MW each) and 80 MW coal-based captive power plants commissioned in May 2005 and April 2008, respectively;

•

a 14.8 MW fuel based captive power plant transferred from Debari in March 2009 and which was originally commissioned at Debari in March 2003; and

•

3 sulphuric acid plants with a total capacity of 828,500 tpa of sulphuric acid.

Concentrate requirements for the facility are supplied by HZL’s mines. The 154 MW, 80 MW and 14.8 MW captive power plants at Chanderiya provide all of the power for the facility. The captive power plants require approximately 100,000 metric tons of coal at 6,000 gross calorific value per month, which is currently met through imports. The impure silver obtained as a by-product from zinc-lead smelting at this smelter is refined at the Pantnagar plant.

After being denied access to the Hasdev Arand field, HZL continues to import coal from third-party suppliers. HZL had been awarded 1.2 million tons of coal linkage by the Ministry of Coal of the GoI for its Chanderiya plant, but the same was linked to the development of allocated coal block. The access to coal was stopped in September 2012 and there was no linkage coal available for Chanderiya plant and its entire requirement were being met from imported coal. However, we signed a fuel supply agreement in September 2017, thereby resuming access to domestic coal.

Dariba

The Dariba hydrometallurgical zinc smelter is located in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan which was commissioned in March 2010 and has a capacity of 220,000 tpa. The Dariba facility also includes a 306,000 tpa sulphuric acid plant. In July 2011, we commissioned a new 100,000 tpa lead smelter and pursuant to the improvement in operational efficiencies which was completed in March 2018, the capacity increased by 16,000 tpa to 116,000 tpa. It also includes a 98,500 tpa sulphuric acid plant. A majority of the power requirements of the facility is sourced from the 160 MW coal-based captive power plant at Dariba. A new roaster was commissioned in April 2013 in the Dariba facility with an associated sulphuric acid plant capacity of 306,000 tpa. Zinc cathodes are sent to its refining facilities at Pantnagar in Uttarakhand state for refining and processing. The anode slime obtained as a residue from lead smelting at this smelter is refined and processed into silver ingots at the Pantnagar plant.

Debari

The Debari hydrometallurgical zinc smelter is located in the state of Rajasthan. The hydrometallurgical zinc smelter was commissioned in 1968, uses RLE technology and has a capacity of 80,000 tpa which was increased to 88,000 tpa in April 2008, pursuant to improvements made to its operational efficiencies. The Debari facility also includes a 419,000 tpa sulphuric acid plant. A majority of the power requirements of the facility is sourced from the coal-based captive power plant at Chanderiya and the balance is sourced from two on-site liquid fuel-based captive power plants with a combined capacity of 14.8 MW, commissioned in March 2003.

Haridwar

The zinc ingot processing and refining plant in Haridwar in the state of Uttarakhand was commissioned in July 2008. This plant processes and casts zinc ingots from zinc cathodes produced in the Chanderiya smelter and therefore its production capacity does not increase the total production capacity of HZL’s facilities. After expiry of tax holiday benefit, production activities have stopped at the smelter in fiscal year 2018.

Pantnagar

The Pantnagar plant, which is located in the state of Uttarakhand in northwest India, includes a 518 tpa silver refinery that was commissioned in December, 2011, a zinc ingot and a lead ingot refining and processing plant that was commissioned in February 2012. Pursuant to the improvement in operational efficiencies which was completed in March 2018, the zinc smelting capacity increased by 82 tpa to 600 tpa. The Pantnagar plant refines and processes zinc and lead ingots from zinc and lead cathodes that are produced by our Chanderiya and Dariba smelters and also refines the impure silver obtained as a by-product from lead smelting conducted at our Chanderiya and Dariba smelters. Therefore the Pantnagar plant does not increase the total zinc and lead production capacity of HZL’s facilities. Haridwar and Pantnagar facilities are also used for nationwide distribution of finished goods as well as for exports.

Production Volumes

The following table sets out HZL’s total production from its Chanderiya, Debari, Dariba and the Pantnagar facilities for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


			For the Year Ended March 31,
Facility	Product		2016		2017		2018
			(tons, except for silver which is in kgs)
Chanderiya
—ISP^TM pyrometallurgical lead-zinc smelter		Zinc		86,908		83,838		86,424
		Lead		21,517		23,121		23,867
First hydrometallurgical zinc smelter		Zinc		193,639		173,401		196,180
Second hydrometallurgical zinc smelter		Zinc		207,923		178,424		214,441
Ausmelt^TM lead smelter		Lead		23,045		23,352		48,583
Sulphuric acid plants		Sulphuric acid		618,426		545,563		615,409
Dariba
Hydrometallurgical zinc smelter		Zinc		203,704		189,882		217,433
Lead Smelter		Lead		100,357		92,535		95,796
Sulphuric acid plant		Sulphuric acid		499,222		446,997		512,945
Debari
Hydrometallurgical zinc smelter		Zinc		66,764		46,442		76,980
Sulphuric acid plant		Sulphuric acid		224,675		191,636		275,741
Pantnagar
Silver Refinery		Silver		424,578		452,543		557,517
Total		Zinc		758,938		671,987		791,458
		Lead⁽¹⁾		144,919		139,009		168,246
		Silver		424,578		452,543		557,517
		Sulphuric acid		1,342,323		1,184,195		1,404,095

Notes:

(1)	Excludes lead containing a high content of silver (high silver lead) produced from the pyrometallurgical lead-zinc smelter for captive use, which was 6,657 tons, 5,285 tons and 6,946 tons in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively.

The following table sets out HZL’s total ore, zinc concentrate, lead concentrate and bulk concentrate production for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


		Year Ended March 31,
Mine (Type of Mine)	Product	2016		2017		2018
		(tons, except percentages)
Rampura Agucha (Open-pit)	Ore mined		4,481,114		3,321,192		1,764,564
	Ore grade – Zinc		12.1%		13.3%		11.8%
	Lead		1.9%		1.9%		1.7%
	Recovery – Zinc		88.1%		91.9%		90.1%
	Lead		57.7%		63.3%		57.9%
	Zinc concentrate		964,879		769,015		405,375
	Lead concentrate		85,311		61,799		32,052
Rampura Agucha (Underground)	Ore mined		223,521		1,379,746		2,078,623
	Ore grade – Zinc		10.4%		10.2%		11.1%
	Lead		1.4%		1.3%		1.5%
	Recovery – Zinc		88.1%		89.9%		88.1%
	Lead		57.7%		56.4%		53.4%
	Zinc concentrate		42,104		191,123		456,938
	Lead concentrate		3,398		14,688		33,997
Kayad (Underground)	Ore mined		760,100		1,000,000		1,200,000
	Ore grade – Zinc		8.9%		10.0%		8.7%
	Lead		1.1%		1.4%		1.2%
	Recovery – Zinc		93.3%		94.8%		94.5%
	Lead		74.0%		75.0%		75.4%
	Zinc concentrate		151,298		164,332		196,692
	Lead concentrate		12,953		15,597		18,665
Rajpura Dariba (Underground)	Ore mined		668,777		745,534		895,568
	Ore grade – Zinc		5.1%		5.2%		4.8%
	Lead		1.2%		1.2%		1.1%
	Recovery – Zinc		83.4%		83.8%		83.9%
	Lead		70.3%		68.7%		69.8%
	Zinc concentrate		52,351		64,251		76,495
	Lead concentrate		12,407		14,482		18,394
	Bulk concentrate⁽¹⁾		8,941		—		—
Sindesar Khurd (Underground)	Ore mined		2,969,587		3,664,768		4,500,000
	Ore grade – Zinc		3.9%		3.9%		4.0%
	Lead		2.2%		2.1%		2.1%
	Recovery – Zinc		91.0%		90.5%		90.9%
	Lead		89.0%		87.6%		87.9%
	Zinc concentrate		176,761		230,677		326,890
	Lead concentrate		92,611		109,007		146,148
Zawar (Underground)	Ore mined		1,349,850		1,770,000		2,176,111
	Ore grade – Zinc		2.8%		2.8%		2.5%
	Lead		2.1%		2.1%		2.0%
	Recovery – Zinc		90.4%		91.0%		78.6%
	Lead		90.4%		90.9%		74.8%
	Zinc concentrate		—		3,441		51,288
	Lead concentrate		—		3,088		32,849
	Bulk concentrate⁽¹⁾		102,987		113,015		41,697
Total	Ore mined		10,452,949		11,881,240		12,614,866
	Zinc concentrate		1,387,393		1,463,567⁽²⁾		1,513,678
	Lead concentrate		206,680		243,678		282,105
	Bulk concentrate⁽¹⁾		111,928		113,015⁽²⁾		41,697

Note:

(1)	Bulk concentrate is concentrate that contains both zinc and lead.

(2)	The above production excludes Sindesar Khurd mines ore treated at Rajpura Dariba mines and Rampura Agucha mines (129,403 tons and 45,910 tons respectively) and Zawar mines ore treated at Rampura Agucha mines (233,569 tons).

Principal Raw Materials

The principal inputs of HZL’s zinc smelting business are zinc and lead concentrates and power. HZL has in the past been able to secure an adequate supply of the principal inputs for its business.

Zinc and Lead Concentrates

Zinc and lead concentrates are the principal raw material of HZL’s smelters. HZL’s lead-zinc mines have provided all of its requirements for zinc and lead concentrates in fiscal year 2018. We expect HZL’s mines to continue to provide nearly all of its zinc and lead concentrate requirements for the foreseeable future.

Power

Most of HZL’s operations are powered by the coal-based captive power plants at Chanderiya, Dariba and Zawar. HZL imports the required thermal coal from a number of third party suppliers and part of the requirement is sourced by way of linkage with South Eastern Coalfields Limited (a subsidiary of Coal India Limited). HZL was awarded 0.4 million tons of coal linkage by Ministry of Coal. However, due to limited coal availability, Coal India Limited has been supplying only 50.0% of the 0.4 million tons linkage quantity. As of April 2013, the coal supplies to Chanderiya have stopped due to pending decision at Ministry of Coal on the linkages for plants which have been allocated coal blocks. In February 2014 the coal block allocated to the Chanderiya lead zinc smelter captive power plant was deallocated by the Ministry of Coal. As of January 2016, the coal supplies to Dariba captive power plant stopped due to the expiry of the existing fuel supply agreement and further renewal of such agreement has not yet been sanctioned by South Eastern Coalfields Limited. Linkage coal supplies to HZL’s power plants at Zawar are continuing and the linkage quantity for these plants has been restricted to 50.0% of 0.4 million tons. The remaining coal requirements are met through the import of coal from various countries which is currently priced lower than linkage coal on a landed basis.

HZL’s remaining operations source their required power from liquid fuel-based captive power plants or from local power companies. The liquid fuel is sourced from third party suppliers on yearly contracts.

Metallurgical Coke

In addition, HZL’s pyrometallurgical smelter at Chanderiya requires metallurgical coke that is used in the smelting process. HZL currently sources its metallurgical coke requirements from third parties under long-term contracts and the open market.

Distribution, Logistics and Transport

Zinc and lead concentrates from HZL’s lead-zinc mines are transported to the Chanderiya and Debari smelters by road. Zinc and lead ingots, silver and sulphuric acid by-products are transported primarily by road to customers in India directly or via HZL’s depots. Zinc and lead cathodes are mostly transported by rail to its processing and refining facilities in Uttarakhand state in northern India. Zinc and lead ingots are transported for exports to ports in India primarily by rail, from where they are loaded on ships. The facilities in Uttarakhand also serve as finished goods center for nationwide distribution of its finished products.

Sales and Marketing

HZL’s 10 largest customers accounted for approximately 36.5%, 34.0% and 32.6% of its revenue in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively. No customer accounted for greater than 10.0% of HZL’s zinc business revenue in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018.

HZL’s marketing office is located in Mumbai, and it has field sales and marketing offices in most major metropolitan centers in India. In fiscal year 2018, HZL sold approximately 65% of the zinc and lead metal it produced in the Indian market and exported approximately 35.0% of our Zinc India segment revenue.

In fiscal year 2018, HZL accounted for approximately 99.4% of domestic sales of zinc metal under annual contracts and approximately 63.0% of export sales under annual contracts specifying quantity, grade and price, with the remainder sold on the spot market. The contract sales price is linked to prevailing LME price with an additional physical market premium. Thus, the price that HZL receives for its zinc is dependent upon, and subject to fluctuations in the LME price.

Projects and Developments

HZL has been actively conducting exploration, which has resulted in net ore reserves of 105.8 million tons across all mines in fiscal year 2018. Based on long-term evaluation of assets and in consultation with mining experts, we have finalized the next phase of growth, which will involve sinking of underground shafts and developing underground mines. The plan comprises developing a 4.5 mmtpa underground mine at Rampura Agucha mine and expanding the Sindesar Khurd mine from 2.0 mmtpa to 6.0 mmtpa, Zawar mines from 1.2 mmtpa to 4.5 mmtpa, Rajpura Dariba mine from 0.6 mmtpa to 1.5 mmtpa and Kayad mine from 0.4 mmtpa to 1.2 mmtpa. The growth plan will increase mined metal production capacity to 1.2 mmtpa. The estimated cost for these projects amounts to ₹ 108,600 million ($ 1,668 million). HZL spent ₹ 17,180 million ($ 264 million) on these projects in fiscal year 2018. These projects are financed from internal sources.

Market Share and Competition

HZL is the only integrated zinc producer in India and had a market share by sales volume of the Indian zinc market of 78.0% in fiscal year 2018, according to ILZDA. Imports and secondary sources accounted for the remaining 22.0% market share, according to ILZDA. Zinc is a commodity product and HZL competes primarily on the basis of price, time of delivery and location. Zinc metal also faces competition as a result of substitution of materials, including aluminium, stainless steel and other alloys, plastics and other materials being substituted for galvanized steel and epoxies, paints and other chemicals being used to treat steel in place of galvanization in the construction market.

Our Zinc International Business

Our zinc international business comprises Skorpion, which owns the Skorpion mine and refinery in Namibia and Black Mountain Mining, which owns the Black Mountain mine and the Gamsberg project in South Africa.

Skorpion

Overview

THL Zinc Namibia Holdings (Proprietary) Limited (“Skorpion”) was incorporated on June 16, 1998 and is headquartered at the Skorpion Zinc mine site, which is situated 25 kilometers north of Rosh Pinah Namibia. Skorpion’s wholly owned subsidiaries are: Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited, Namzinc (Proprietary) Limited, Amica Guesthouse (Proprietary) Limited and Skorpion Mining Company (Proprietary) Limited. Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited is an investment holding company, owning the entire share capital in Namzinc (Proprietary) Limited and Skorpion Mining Company (Proprietary) Limited. Namzinc (Proprietary) Limited operates a zinc refinery, which procures oxide zinc ore from Skorpion Mining Company (Proprietary) Limited, which in turn extracts the ore from an open pit zinc deposit. Skorpion Mining Company (Proprietary) Limited is a member of the Chamber of Mines in Namibia.

Principal Products

Skorpion produces SHG zinc ingots of LME grade. Skorpion offers the product to customers primarily through short term or spot contracts, covering the sale of all zinc ingots produced at the integrated mine and refinery of Skorpion.

Principal Facilities

The following map shows the location of Skorpion mines in Namibia:

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Mines

Skorpion Mines

The Skorpion Zinc Deposit is located in the southern Namib Desert of Namibia, approximately 20 kilometers north-west of the small mining town of Rosh Pinah, 75 kilometers from the Atlantic coastline, and about 40 kilometers from the perennial Orange River, which forms the border with South Africa. The deposit lies just inside the “Sperrgebiet” or forbidden area, now known as Diamond Area 1. The extracted ore is sent to the refinery for further processing.

As of March 31, 2018, the remaining mine life of the Skorpion mine is approximately 2 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan. The Skorpion mine has an attached electrolytic refinery producing approximately 150,000 tons of SHG zinc ingots annually. Further opportunities to extend the life of the mine are currently being evaluated based on the sulphide ore bodies in the nearby areas. Skorpion is also working for conversion of the refinery from stand-alone oxide ore treatment to sulphide ore treatment also.

Summary of Mine Reserves

The following table sets out the proved and probable zinc reserves as of March 31, 2018:

Proved Reserve

Probable Reserve

Total Proved and
Probable Reserves

Vedanta
Limited
Interest

Reserve
life

Quantity

Zinc
Grade

Quantity

Zinc
Grade

Quantity

Zinc
Grade

(million tons)

(%)

(million tons)

(%)

(million tons)

(%)

(Years)

Skorpion

1.11

7.5

1.63

11.5

2.74

9.9

Total

1.11

7.5

1.63

11.5

2.74

9.9

100

Additional information:

(1)	The estimate of ore reserves were reviewed by AMC Consultants Pty Ltd. in accordance with the principles and guidelines of the Australian Code for reporting of mineral resources and ore reserves (JORC code, 2012 edition).

(2)	The cut-off grade used with our reserve estimate is 3.0%.

(3)	The metallurgical recovery factor for Skorpion mine ranges from 86% to 88.73%.

(4)	The commodity price considered for the evaluation of reserves is $ 2,526 per ton and currency conversion factor that were used to estimate our reserves was Namibian dollar per US dollar 14.

(5)	The reserve quantities disclosed are for the entire mine.

Skorpion Facility

The following table sets out the total capacity of the facility at Skorpion as of March 31, 2018:


	Capacity
Facility	Zinc (tpa)

Skorpion		150,000


Total		150,000

Production Volumes

The following table sets out the total production from Skorpion zinc refinery for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:

Facility

Product

Fiscal Year
2016

Fiscal Year
2017

Fiscal Year
2018

(tons)

Zinc refinery

Zinc

81,938

85,427

84,215

The following table sets out the total ore and zinc concentrate production at the Skorpion mine, for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


Mine (Type of Mine)	Product	Fiscal Year 2016		Fiscal Year 2017		Fiscal Year 2018
		(tons except percentage)
Skorpion (Open-pit)	Ore mined		1,245,198		1,206,176		537,066
	Ore grade - Zinc	7.5%		8.4%		8.2%
	Recovery - Zinc	85.5%		83.9%		81.2%

Principal Raw Materials

The Skorpion mine used 28,031 tons of oxides in fiscal year 2018, of which 100% was imported in bulk and shipped to Namibia through the port of Luderitz.

Power

The maximum power demand of the Skorpion mine is 85 MW and power is supplied from South Africa and is governed by a tri-partite US dollar-denominated contract between Namibia Power Corporation (Proprietary) Limited, Eskom Holdings Limited and Skorpion, that currently links the annual increases in power costs to a US inflationary index. The tri-partite contract expired in January 2018, the Company is in negotiations with NamPower and Eskom for renewal of a contract for a further 3 years.

Distribution, Transport and Logistics

Zinc at the Skorpion mine is cast into ingots and transported from the refinery to the port of Luderitz, approximately 300 kilometers away by trucks each having a maximum capacity of 35 tons. On the return trip from Luderitz, these trucks carry sulphur transported to site, which is imported by ship. All other re-agents and consumables are trucked in by one transport contractor.

Sales and Marketing

Skorpion’s 10 largest customers accounted for approximately, 79.9%, 99.0% and 94.4% of its revenue in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively. Three of Skorpion’s customers accounted for approximately 64%, 86% and 75% of Skorpion’s revenue in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018. Skorpion’s marketing office is located in Rosh Pinah.

Most of the zinc metal that Skorpion produced in fiscal year 2018 was sold under spot or short term contracts. About 13.9% of the metal produced is sold in the Southern African Customs Union market and balance is sold to other regions. The contract sales price is linked to prevailing LME price with an additional market premium. Thus, the price that Skorpion receives for its zinc is dependent upon and is subject to fluctuations in the LME price.

Market Share and Competition

The Skorpion mine produces high-grade, high purity SHG zinc ingots that are registered on the LME.

Black Mountain Mining

Overview

BMM consists of the Black Mountain mine and the Gamsberg Project. We own a 74.0% interest in BMM and Exxaro Resources Limited (through its wholly owned subsidiary, Exxaro Base Metals & Industrial Mineral Holdings (Pty) Ltd) holds the remaining 26.0% interest in BMM.

The predominant mining method is ramp in stope cut and fill and longhole stoping. The planned production rate is 1.8 mtpa plant feed and the shaft hoisting capacity is approximately 1.4 mtpa from Deeps mine and 0.36 mtpa from Swartberg. All production stopes in the Deeps mine are backfilled and waste filled, integrated into the mining sequence.

During fiscal year 2018, 1,605,892 tons of ore at 2.3% zinc and 3.4% lead were mined from the Black Mountain mine, which produced approximately 55,501 tons of zinc concentrate and 65,381 tons of lead concentrate, containing 27,175 tons of zinc and 45,113 tons of lead respectively. In addition, the Black Mountain mine also produced 4,969 tons of copper in concentrate and 42 tons of silver in concentrate.

Principal Products

BMM produces zinc, copper and lead in concentrate and all the zinc and copper concentrate are shipped overseas. A small portion of the lead concentrate is sold locally, with the bulk shipped overseas.

By-products

Silver

Silver is a by-product of our copper and lead concentrate.

Principal Facilities

The following maps shows the specific location of the Black Mountain mine in Northern Cape in South Africa:

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Mines

The zinc mine at Black Mountain is an underground operation, mining a polymetallic ore body, with an attached concentrator producing approximately 27,175 tons of zinc in concentrate and 45,113 tons of lead in concentrate respectively. In addition, the Black Mountain mine also produced 4,969 tons of copper in concentrate and 42 tons of silver in concentrate annually.

The Black Mountain mine is operated pursuant to mining right 58/2008 MR granted pursuant to the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 28 of 2002 of South Africa which entitles us to mine for lead, copper, zinc and associated minerals in, on and under an area in the district of Namaqualand measuring 24,195 hectares for a period of 30 years from 2008 to 2038.

Four major stratiform exhalative sediment hosted base metal deposits are located in a 10 by 30 km area, centered on Aggeneys. The deposits are situated in the supracrustal rocks of the mid-Proterozoic age Bushmanland group of the Namaqualand metamorphic complex. The deeps ore body, which is currently being mined, is considered to start at 166 meters above mean sea level, with a down plunge extent of 1.1 km with the deepest position of the ore body being 1,680 meters below the surface. Mineralization in the deeps is hosted by iron formations, massive sulphide and sulphide quartzite. The massive sulphide rock is either banded, massive or occurs as fine grained mylonite. Banding is expressed as 1-5 m thick sulphide bands alternating with quartz rich bands of similar thickness.

Underground drilling of the deeps ore body was started in December 2000 and were completed in 2012. As of March 31, 2018, BMM estimates the remaining mine life of the Black Mountain mine to be 4 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan.

The predominant mining method is ramp in stope cut and fill and longhole mining. The production rate is 1.8 mtpa plant feed and the shaft hoisting capacity is approximately 150,000 tons per month. All production stopes are backfilled and waste filled, integrated into the mining sequence.

Power at the zinc mine at Black Mountain is supplied from two 40 MVA transformers at the Eskom Aggeneys substation. Water is supplied by the Pelladrift Water Board, which supplies potable water to the mine from the Orange River for both human consumption and industrial water requirements.

Zinc, lead and copper concentrate from the mine are road hauled to the port of Saldanha with delivery terms to export customers on a cost, insurance and freight basis. Since October 2015, there has been a change in strategy to move the concentrate directly to Saldanha by road, with delivery terms to export customers on a cost insurance and freight basis.

Swartberg was mined on a small scale (25,800 tons per month) from 1995 but production was stopped in 2006 in an effort to procure the Deeps mine in full production. Mining at Swartberg was re-introduced in the year 2012 by a diamond drilling campaign to explore the ore bodies on strike. Down-plunge in depth at this mine was started in the same year. Following positive results from this drilling a pre-feasibility study is in progress to investigate the potential of a fully operating mine at Swartberg, which will replace ore from the Deeps mine once it is mined out in the year 2022.

Summary of Mine Reserves

The following table sets out the proved and probable zinc and lead reserves as of March 31, 2018:


	Proved Reserve								Probable Reserve								Total Proved and Probable Reserves								Vedanta Limited ownership		Reserve life
	Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver		Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver		Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver
	(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(%)		(Years)
Black Mountain-Deeps		1.27		3.01		4.0		43		4.29		2.97		1.73		24		5.56		2.98		2.24		28


Total		1.27		3.01		4.0		43		4.29		2.97		1.73		24		5.56		2.98		2.24		28		74		4


	Proved Reserve								Probable Reserve								Total Proved and Probable Reserves								Vedanta Limited ownership		Reserve life
	Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver		Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver		Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver
	(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(%)		(Years)
Black Mountain-Swartberg		—		—		—		—		2.17		0.6		3.33		31		2.17		0.6		3.33		31


Total		—		—		—		—		2.17		0.6		3.33		31		2.17		0.6		3.33		31		74		5


	Proved Reserve								Probable Reserve								Total Proved and Probable Reserves								Vedanta Limited ownership		Reserve life
	Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver		Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver		Quantity		Zinc Grade		Lead Grade		Silver
	(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(million tons)		(%)		(%)		(g/t)		(%)		(Years)
Black Mountain-Gamsberg		44.49		6.8		0.5				8.69		5.9		0.5				53.18		6.6		0.5


Total		44.49		6.8		0.5				8.69		5.9		0.5				53.18		6.6		0.5				74		12

References to “g/t” are grams per ton

Additional information:

Deeps and Swartberg

(1)	The reserve estimates presented incorporate losses for mine dilution and mining recovery according to the JORC code.

(2)	The cut-off rand value used with our reserve estimate is 741 ZAR per ton.

(3)	The metallurgical recovery factor for zinc, lead and copper is 71.4%, 87.4% and 70.1%, respectively.

(4)	The commodity prices for zinc, lead and copper considered for evaluation of reserves were $ 2,526 per ton, $ 2,028 per ton and $ 6,247 per ton, respectively. The average currency conversion factor that was used to estimate our reserves was South African Rand per US $ 14.

(5)	The reserve quantities disclosed are for the entire mine and our share in the reserve quantities is 74.0%.

Gamsberg

(1)	The reserve estimates, were derived from management estimates as of March 31, 2018.

(2)	The zinc cut-off grade used with our reserve estimate is 3.0%.

(3)	The commodity price for zinc considered for evaluation of reserves was $ 2,526 per ton. The average currency conversion factor that was used to estimate our reserves was South African Rand per US $ 14.

(4)	The reserve quantities disclosed are for the entire mine and our share in the reserve quantities is 74.0%.

Production Volumes

The following table sets out the total ore, zinc and lead concentrate production at the Black Mountain mine for each of fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


Mine (Type of Mine)	Product	Fiscal Year 2016		Fiscal Year 2017		Fiscal Year 2018
		(tons, except percentages)
Black Mountain (Underground)	Ore mined		1,579,633		1,590,600		1,605,892
	Ore grade –Zinc		2.5%		2.5%		2.3%
	-Lead		2.6%		3.2%		3.4%
	Recovery - Zinc		75.2%		77.1%		76.4%
	-Lead		84.6%		86.3%		86.9%
	Zinc concentrate		59,006		58,005		55,501
	Lead concentrate		48,091		59,518		65,381

Principal Raw Materials

There are no major raw materials used in Black Mountain Mine, except for chemical reagents which are used in the floatation process to produce zinc and lead concentrates.

Distribution, Logistics and Transport

Zinc concentrate, lead concentrate and copper concentrate from the mine is hauled by road to the port of Saldanha with delivery terms to export customers on a cost, insurance and freight basis.

Sales and Marketing

BMM produces zinc, lead and copper concentrates that are sold in international markets on a spot basis or a frame contract basis. The commercial terms negotiated include taking into account the percentage of payable metals, treatment and refining charges and applicable prices. Some of the customers of Black Mountain mine are Cliveden Trading AG, Ocean Partners UK Limited, Louis Dreyfus Company Metals Suisse SA and Trafigura PTE Limited.

All the zinc and lead metal that BMM produced in fiscal year 2018 was sold under frame or spot contracts specifying quantity, grade and price. The contract sales price is linked to the prevailing LME price with an additional market premium. Thus, the price that BMM receives for its zinc and lead is dependent upon and is subject to fluctuations in the LME price.

Projects and Developments

Gamsberg Project

The Gamsberg ore body is a large undeveloped zinc deposit situated approximately 22 kms from Black Mountain. The Gamsberg Project was officially approved by the Company’s Board in November 2014. In April 2015, the project schedule was revised after optimizing the mining cost. The mining and milling capital costs were reduced primarily due to engineering improvements and negotiations.

During fiscal year 2018, pre-start activities and waste stripping at the project progressed well. We have excavated over 56.0 million tons of waste rock until March 31, 2018, which is 82% of total waste stripping requirement. A water pipeline of 38 km and a 66 KV power line of 20 km with main receiving sub-station were installed in the month of March 2018. The majority of civil foundations for the processing plant and infrastructure were completed. All major equipment and machinery arrived on site with mills, primary crusher, transformers, zinc flotation cells, zinc filter press, tailing thickener, pebble crusher already installed. Ore mining commenced in fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018 and first concentrate production is expected in second quarter of fiscal year 2019 with an expected 9 to 12 months for ramp-up to full production of 250 ktpa.

Lisheen

The Lisheen mine is located in County Tipperary, Republic of Ireland. Mining and milling activities at the Lisheen mine ceased in December 2015 and the mine has closed. Concentrator and other plant infrastructure was sold, rehabilitation of the mine is almost complete and the mine is moving into passive closure.

Our Oil and Gas Business

Overview

Our oil and gas business was previously owned and operated by Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) in which our total ownership interest before the merger was 59.9%. Vedanta Limited and Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) announced the merger which became effective on April 11, 2017. Cairn continues to contribute significantly to India’s domestic crude oil production, approximately 25% along with the joint operation partners to the total production, as per provisional statistics of Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell of MoPNG as of March 31, 2018. Cairn has a world-class resource base, with interests in five blocks in India and one in South Africa. The blocks are located in the Barmer Basin, Krishna-Godavari Basin, the Cambay Basin and Orange Basin.


	Asset	Basin	Cairn’s Interest (%)		Joint Operation partners	Area (in square km)
India
1	Rajasthan	Barmer		70%	ONGC		3,111
2	Cambay	Cambay		40%	ONGC, Tata Petrodyne, ONGC, Ravva Oil		207
3	Ravva	KG Offshore		22.5%	Videocon		331
4	KG-ONN-2003/1	KG Onshore		49%	ONGC		315
5	KG-OSN-2009/3	KG Offshore		100%	—		1,988

International
6	Block 1	Orange, South Africa		60%	Petro SA		19,898

	Total						25,850

Rajasthan, RJ-ON-90/1 block, Barmer Basin (operator, 70% participating interest)

The Rajasthan RJ-ON-90/1 (the “Rajasthan block”) is an onshore block. It is Cairn’s principal production asset where Vedanta Limited along with Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited owns a 70% participating interest pursuant to the production sharing contract that runs until May 2020. Cairn’s joint operation partner, ONGC, has a 30% participating interest. The Rajasthan block is spread over 3,111 square kms in the west of Barmer district, and consists of three contiguous development areas: (i) Development Area 1, primarily comprising the Mangala, Aishwariya, Raageshwari, Guda and Saraswati fields; (ii) Development Area 2, primarily comprising of the Bhagyam, NI and NE and Shakti fields; and (iii) Development Area 3, comprising of the Kaameshwari West fields.

The Mangala field was discovered in January 2004. This was followed by many other discoveries including the Aishwariya and Bhagyam fields. In the Rajasthan block, 38 discoveries have been established, since inception. Exploration activities and studies indicate that the block has further potential for reserves for future growth opportunities.

Cairn also owns and operates significant infrastructure assets to facilitate the processing, transportation, and sale of crude oil produced in the Rajasthan block. For fiscal year 2018, Cairn’s net average daily production was 75,935 boepd from the Rajasthan block.

Cambay, CB/OS-2 block, Cambay Basin (operator, 40% participating interest)

The Cambay CB/OS-2 (the “Cambay block”) is an offshore block which is located in the Cambay Basin of the state of Gujarat in western India. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s operations in the Cambay block are centered on the Lakshmi and Gauri oil and gas fields and the CB-X development area. Based on exploration and development activities undertaken by Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business, the Cambay block has yielded natural gas discoveries in its offshore Lakshmi and Gauri fields and onshore CB-X field and crude oil discoveries in the former two fields. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business commenced its gas production from the Lakshmi gas field in 2002 and from the Gauri field in 2004. Production of co-mingled crude oil, which consists of crude oil plus condensate, from the Gauri field commenced in 2005. The Lakshmi and Gauri offshore fields cover areas of 121.1 square kms and 52.7 square kms, respectively, in the Cambay Basin and lie off the coast of the state of Gujarat in water depths of approximately 20 meters. CB-X is an onshore gas field situated in the Cambay block and covers an area of 33.3 square kms. Currently, there is no production from CB-X field. For fiscal year 2018, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s net average daily production was 2,648 boepd from the Cambay block.

Ravva, PKGM-1 block, Krishna Godavari Basin, Eastern India (operator, 22.5% participating interest)

Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s production operations in the Krishna-Godavari Basin are centered on the Ravva PKGM-1 (the “Ravva block”), lying off the coast of Andhra Pradesh in Eastern India, in water depths up to 40 meters. Developed in partnership with ONGC, Videocon and Ravva Oil Singapore, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business became the operator of Ravva block in 1996. For fiscal year 2018, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s net average daily production was 2,012 boepd from the Ravva block.

KG Onshore, KG-ONN-2003/1, Krishna Godavari Basin (49% participating interest)

The onshore block KG-ONN-2003/1, located in the Krishna Godavari basin in the state of Andhra Pradesh, was awarded in NELP V round to a joint venture between Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) and ONGC. Nagayalanka-1Z was the first discovery in the block. Production from existing well has commenced in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019 and a new campaign to drill three development wells is planned to commence in the second quarter of fiscal year 2019.

KG Offshore, KG-OSN-2009/3, Krishna Godavari Basin (operator, 100% participating interest)

The offshore block KG-OSN-2009/3 covers an area of 1,988 square kms and is located in the Krishna Godavari Basin off the coast of the state of Andhra Pradesh. The block is currently in the initial exploration phase which is extended till December 14, 2018 pursuant to an approval from MoPNG. Two well drilling program was commenced during first quarter of fiscal year 2019.

South Africa, Block 1—Orange Basin, South Africa (operating through a subsidiary, 60% participating interest)

Cairn signed a farm-in agreement with PetroSA, the national oil company of South Africa, for the 19,898 square kms off-shore block 1, located in the Orange Basin in South Africa. Cairn South Africa Proprietary Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Vedanta Limited holds a 60% participating interest in off-shore block 1 and is the operator. Cairn along with the joint operation partner is awaiting clarity on the proposed regulatory changes and fiscal terms as given in the amendment bill of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 in order to enter the second phase.

Principal Products

Oil

Cairn produces crude oil of various grades with different degrees and contents across fields. The crude oil in the majority of fields in the Rajasthan block is medium sweet oil with high pour point. Conversely, the crude oil produced from the Ravva block and Cambay block are light sweet in nature.

Gas

The Rajasthan, Ravva and Cambay blocks produce natural gas, as well as natural gas commingled with crude oil. While Cairn has been historically selling gas from the offshore blocks of Ravva and Cambay, it commenced gas sales in the Rajasthan block in fiscal year 2014, following the regulatory approval in March 2013.

Production

The table below shows oil and gas production results for fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Average Daily Production

Units

2016

2017

2018

% Change
(2017 Vs. 2018)

Net operated

Boepd

91,076

78,259

80,595

Oil

Bopd

89,110

76,906

78,082

Gas

Mmscfd

88%

Estimate of Reserves

Set forth in the table below is certain data regarding the estimates of net reserves from fields within the Rajasthan block, the Ravva block and the Cambay block as of March 31, 2018. Volumes reported in this table are in millions of barrels of oil equivalent.

Domestic Asset

Basin

Exploration
activity

Development
activity

Net Proved
Reserves

Rajasthan block

Barmer

✓

44.72

Cambay block

Cambay

✓

3.88

Ravva block

KG Offshore

✓

0.62

Total

49.22

Technology

The technology landscape is continuously changing at a rapid pace. Such changes create an opportunity to adapt and develop competitive advantage. It is imperative for Vedanta Limited to adapt cutting edge technology in order to generate incremental value. The agility to inculcate technology as part of business has been demonstrated over the years ranging from enhanced oil recovery mechanism, to projects’ concept optimization, hydraulic fracturing, 3D seismic technology etc.

Enhanced oil recovery methods are tertiary recovery methods of producing oil, which is not recovered during the application of primary and/or secondary water-flood recovery methods. Cairn has successfully executed one of the world’s largest polymer flood enhanced oil recovery projects at Mangala. Driven by its encouraging results, Cairn has commenced implementation of polymer flood program at Bhagyam and Aishwariya fields from May 2018.

In addition to the application of polymer flood enhanced oil recovery, Cairn is also implementing the alkaline-surfactant-polymer flood process in the Mangala field. A closely spaced pilot was successfully tested in the Mangala field which demonstrated the suitability of the enhanced oil recovery process. This enables us to increase recovery rates for the Mangala field.

Hydraulic fracturing or fraccing or hydro-frac is the process of providing a conductive path for hydrocarbons to flow from the reservoir to the wellbore, in low permeability reservoirs. The application of this technology is helping in the development of tight gas formation of Raageshwari Deep Gas (“RDG”) field. During fiscal years 2016 and 2017, Cairn fracced multiple wells in RDG field. As a result of the successful application of hydro frac technology and better reservoir characterization, the expected ultimate recovery from the RDG field has been upgraded by over 25%. Use of limited entry technique for hydro-fraccing also reduced per frac time and cost by about 50%. Cairn is also working at developing the tight oil formation of Barmer Hills through fraccing technology.

Cairn has applied an advanced 3D seismic orthorhombic prestack depth imaging technology in the RDG field. The improved imaging and resolution of the seismic data was helpful in utilizing specialized seismic curvature attributes for the characterization of faults and fractures in these tight gas reservoirs. The 3D seismic imaging and reservoir characterization studies provided better understanding of the sweet spot zones in the tight gas formations and will be critical for reducing development drilling risks.

Modified Gas Lift Orifice, was developed in-house to facilitate gas lift in wells which do not have artificial lift jewellery or require deeper gas lift injection in order to increase production. This tool was fabricated and successfully helped in reviving two shut-in wells in the Ravva field, resulting in incremental production. This production enhancement was achieved by allowing deeper gas lift injection with the help of this new tool.

A screen-wash method using injection water was put on trial for the first time in the Ravva block in fiscal year 2016. After successful trials, the method was extended to more producer wells in fiscal year 2017. Screen-wash has helped to unclog the screen face from fines (minute particles) and improve productivity substantially.

Shallow oil bearing late miocene sands were not completed earlier for a well. The cement packer technique was used to access the late miocene sands to add new resources to the Ravva asset. The job involved placing a cement plug in A-Annulus by pumping through the production tubing, cleaning the tubing internal diameter and perforating late miocene sand through tubing, cement, casing and formation. This technology avoided the involvement of a costly rig-based workover.

Acid stimulation was envisaged through fluid based diverter ‘oil seeker’ followed by organic clay acid in oil wells to restore well productivity where acid is diverted preferentially towards the oil zone. Acid stimulation with this technique ensured the formation in the oil zone to be stimulated more effectively, consequently achieving better penetration with minimum damage and thereby obtaining incremental oil production in the Ravva block.

CB-X-1 was a standalone onshore gas producing well in CB-X field of Cambay block which was required to be permanently abandoned, during fiscal year 2017. While conducting permanent well abandonment (“PWA”) procedures by utilizing a rig is a regular practice, a rig-less PWA operation is non-routine. A detailed review of well specific details was conducted to ascertain the well’s suitability for a rig-less PWA operation. A detailed procedure and risk register was developed, and a rig-less PWA was successfully executed by utilizing minimal spread in the cementing and wireline units. An innovative approach aimed at limiting the economic impact was adopted, wherein a digital slickline was utilized with combined capabilities of slickline and e-line units.

Principal Facilities

Overview

The following map shows the locations of Cairn’s blocks in India and South Africa.

LOGO

*	Map not on scale

Rajasthan

Rajasthan Block Production Sharing Contract

Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business along with Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited is working in partnership with its joint operation partner, ONGC in the Rajasthan block. The Rajasthan block production sharing contract (“Rajasthan PSC”) was signed in May 1995 between the GoI and a consortium consisting of ONGC and Shell India Production Development BV.

Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited – oil and gas business) acquired its interest in the Rajasthan PSC in three stages, eventually acquiring a 100.0% beneficial interest in the assets and liabilities as of May 2002 and acquiring legal title to this interest on June 20, 2003. Under the Rajasthan PSC, the GoI has an option to acquire a participating interest of 30.0% in any development area containing a commercial discovery. The GoI exercised their right in all three development areas, specifically, Development Area 1 in 2005, Development Area 2 in 2007 and Development Area 3 in 2009, acting through its nominee ONGC, and acquired a 30.0% participating interest. As of March 31, 2018, ONGC holds 30.0%, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business holds 35.0% participating interest in the Rajasthan block and the remaining 35.0% interest being held by Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited, which is wholly owned by Vedanta Limited through its subsidiaries.

As per terms of the Rajasthan PSC and permissions from the GoI, the crude oil, natural gas and condensate produced from the Rajasthan block is being sold to both, the public sector undertakings refineries and private refineries. As of March 31, 2018, commercial sales arrangements are in place for over 250,000 bopd with public sector undertakings and private refineries.

The Rajasthan PSC established a management committee for the Rajasthan block which consists of four members, two of whom are nominated by and represent the GoI and the licensee, namely ONGC, taken together, and two of whom are nominated by and represent Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited. The management committee must unanimously approve annual work programs, budgets, proposals for the declaration of a discovery as commercial, field development plans, and the delineation of or additions to a development area, while all other matters only require a majority vote, provided that the majority vote includes the vote of the member representing the GoI.

The Rajasthan PSC is valid until May 2020, unless the PSC is terminated in accordance with its terms, but may be extended upon mutual agreement between the parties for upto 5 years, provided in case of commercial production of natural gas which is expected to continue beyond 2020, the PSC shall be extended for a period of 35 years from May 15, 1995. There is also a provision to further extend the production sharing contract by agreement of the parties if production of crude oil or of natural gas is expected to continue after the relevant period. By way of a notification dated April 7, 2017, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (“MoPNG”) issued a policy for the grant of extension to the production sharing contracts signed by the GoI awarding Pre-New Exploration Licensing Policy (“Pre-NELP”) Exploration Blocks (“Pre-NELP Extension Policy”). The Pre-NELP Extension Policy defines the framework for granting extensions for Pre-NELP blocks and covers both the Rajasthan and Cambay fields.

Pre-NELP Extension Policy, amongst others, provides for an increased share of profit petroleum of 10% for the GoI during the extended term of the Rajasthan PSC. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited have filed a writ before the High Court of Delhi seeking necessary directions for the extension of the PSC. The Single Bench of the High Court of Delhi on May 31, 2018 granted extension of the Rajasthan PSC on same terms and conditions of PSC. The decision of Single Bench was appealed by GoI before Division Bench of High Court of Delhi, wherein Court indicated that the application filed by Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business in May, 2018 for seeking extension of Rajasthan PSC for 10 years, shall be decided / processed under the new extension policy of April 07, 2017 (“Policy”) within a period of two months, notwithstanding the time period which is prescribed in the Policy. In case of any further clarification required by GoI, Court directed that the request for the same must be forwarded to Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business within three weeks. Given this, the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (“DGH”) has sought for certain clarifications from Vedanta Limited – oil and gas business and ONGC.

The Rajasthan block had benefitted from a tax holiday of seven years from fiscal year 2009 (the year of commencement of commercial production from the Rajasthan block) to March 31, 2016. However, during the seven year tax holiday, minimum alternate tax rules were applicable which resulted in a taxation of book profits computed in accordance with the generally accepted accounting principles as used in India. Any minimum alternate tax paid can be carried forward for a total period of 15 years from the year of credit and used to reduce corporate tax to be paid in future years in excess of minimum alternate tax payable in those years.

Under the Rajasthan PSC, all sales made to the GoI or Government Companies as well as private buyers are valued at a weighted average F.O.B. selling price per barrel of a basket of international crude oil as agreed by all parties which is quoted in Platts, a provider of energy information. For any delivery period in which sales take place, the price is set at an average price per barrel determined by calculating the average for such delivery period of the mean of the high and low F.O.B prices of the basket for each day adjusted for differences in quality, delivery time, quantity, payment terms and other contract terms to the extent known. In agreeing to an appropriate basket, the parties attempt, so far as is reasonably practicable, to choose a mixture and weighing of crude oils which would produce a quality similar to the quality of crude oil expected to be produced from that development area, and to agree what quality adjustment, if any, to the basket price is appropriate. In determining the quality of crude oil, account is to be taken of all relevant characteristics including gravity, sulphur and metal content, pour point and product yield.

The crude oil produced at the Rajasthan block is benchmarked to Bonny Light, an international low sulphur crude oil published in Platts Crude Oil Marketwire on a daily basis. The pricing formula also adjusts for differences in yield and quality.

In the event of a dispute between the parties to the Rajasthan PSC as to the basis of, or mechanism for, the calculation of the crude oil price, any party may refer the matter to a sole expert, to be appointed by the parties to the dispute jointly, who is to be an independent and impartial person of international standing with relevant qualifications and experience. Under the provisions of the Rajasthan PSC, the decision of the sole expert is final and binding on the parties and not subject to arbitration.

Operations

The Rajasthan block achieved net production of 27.7 mmboe in fiscal year 2018 and a cumulative total gross production of 429.9 mmboe until the end of fiscal year 2018. The net average production was 75,935 boepd for fiscal year 2018, higher by 3% year on year, primarily due to addition of wells as part of Mangala Infill campaign and gas volume ramp up on account of execution of Raageshwari Deep Gas Phase-1 project. The overall uptime of the facilities in the block stood at over 99% for the year.

Development Area 1, primarily comprising the Mangala, Aishwariya, Saraswati , Guda and Raageshwari oil and gas fields, produced a net average 68,320 boepd during fiscal year 2018, up 3% year on year, with the Mangala field being the largest contributor. During fiscal year 2018, Development Area 2, primarily comprising Bhagyam, NE and NI fields, produced a net average of 7,583 boepd, up 4% year on year. Production was commenced from Kaameshwari in Development Area 3 during the year and averaged at 33 barrels of oil per day in fiscal year 2018.

The Rajasthan block received approval from the GoI to begin selling natural gas in March, 2013. The eight inch gas pipeline which runs along the oil pipeline is being used to supply gas to domestic buyers. This is an efficient application diligent usage of resources in an environmentally friendly way. During fiscal year 2018, the average gas production from Raageshwari deep gas field was 37 mmscfd and average sales were 22 mmscfd. The production was higher due to the ramp up of Raageshwari deep gas under Phase 1.

The following table sets out the net average oil and gas daily production from the Rajasthan block for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


Average Daily Production	Units	2016		2017		2018		% Change (2018 vs 2017)
Net operated	Boepd		85,083		73,655		75,935		3%
Oil	Bopd		83,898		72,912		74,172		2%
Gas	Mmscfd		7		4		11		175%
Net Development Area 1	Boepd		74,986		66,392		68,320		3%
Net Development Area 2	Boepd		10,097		7,263		7,583		4%
Net Development Area 3	Boepd		—		—		33		—

Mangala

The Mangala field commenced production in August 2009 and continues to be the largest contributor to production from the Rajasthan asset. To increase the ultimate oil recovery and support for production volumes, Cairn has embarked on an enhanced oil recovery project, which was successfully executed with encouraging results during fiscal year 2016.

The alkaline surfactant polymer enhanced oil recovery pilot commenced during fiscal year 2015 and has shown positive results with better mobilization of unswept oil. Preliminary analysis suggested that the alkali surfactant polymer pilot wells produced approximately 10-15% incremental oil of the pilot stock tank of oil in place over polymer flood.

In order to accelerate recovery from the Mangala field, an infill drilling campaign consisting of 15 wells was carried out during fiscal year 2018. Further, during fiscal year 2019, we plan to drill additional 45 infill wells.

Bhagyam

Bhagyam, the second largest field in Rajasthan, forms part of Development Area 2 and commenced production in January 2012.

Cairn is looking to replicate the success of the Mangala enhanced oil recovery program to enhance recovery from the Bhaygam field through the execution of polymer flooding. The field development plan for the Bhagyam polymer enhanced oil recovery project has been approved and the drilling of wells has commenced in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019.

Aishwariya

Aishwariya, the third largest discovery in Rajasthan, commenced production in March 2013. It is the fifth oil producing field from the block. Cairn is replicating the success of the Mangala enhanced oil recovery program to enhance recovery from the Aishwariya field through the execution of polymer flooding. The field development plan for the Aishwariya polymer enhanced oil recovery project has been approved and the drilling of wells has commenced in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019.

South Satellite fields including Raageshwari, Saraswati, Guda and Kaameshwari

The Raageshwari oil field commenced production in March 2012, while the Saraswati field commenced production in May 2011. Kaameshwari and Guda oil fields commenced production in May and June 2017, respectively.

Availability of the integrated processing and evacuation facility has reduced operating costs and has therefore made these fields economically viable.

Facilities

Mangala Processing Terminal

The Mangala processing terminal is spread over an area of 1.6 square kms and is a core asset. The Mangala processing terminal processes crude oil produced from various oil fields in the Rajasthan block. The Mangala processing terminal is currently operational with three oil processing trains. The overall liquid handling nameplate capacity of the oil processing trains is 800 kblpd. The oil processing train primarily consists of slug catchers, production heaters, a production separator and settling tank for oil water separation and degassing. Stabilized crude after meeting export crude specification is transported to refineries through a 24-inch diameter continuously heated and insulated pipeline. The Mangala processing terminal’s integrated production facilities support the field development plan approved production, which is in line with Cairn’s unified Rajasthan block offtake capability.

Raageshwari Gas Processing Facility

The Raageshwari gas terminal about 70 kms from the Mangala processing terminal, comprises facilities to remove condensable hydrocarbon liquids and water from the gas produced from Raageshwari gas terminal wells. Gas produced and processed at Raageshwari gas terminal was supplied solely to Mangala processing terminal and to the heating stations along the oil export pipeline from Mangala processing terminal. In March 2013, Cairn commenced the commercial sale of gas from the Raageshwari deep gas field. This was the first step towards unlocking the natural gas potential of the Rajasthan assets. An ongoing drilling programme with surface upgradation project is expected to increase natural gas production and sales from the field. The upgrade of the facility is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2020. The upgraded facility will have the capacity to process approximately 150 mmscfd of gas from adjoining gas fields. On the pipeline front, Cairn signed an agreement with GSPL India Gasnet Limited for constructing eighteen-inches diameter pipeline connecting Raageshwari Gas Terminal to Pali and thereon connecting Mehsana to Bhatinda to Palanpur, in accordance with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (“PNGRB”) approval.

Power facilities

At the Rajasthan block, captive power is generated at the Mangala processing terminal via steam turbine generators and Raageshwari gas terminal via gas engines. The total power capacity across Mangala processing terminal and Raageshwari gas terminal aggregates to 63.3 MW. The gas used as fuel is the associated gas from the fields at Rajasthan. For power requirements exceeding the power generation capacity, which is based on associated gas availability, Cairn taps into the Rajasthan state grid power or buys it through open access from the energy exchanges at lower rates.

Mangala Development Pipeline

The Mangala development pipeline is designed to evacuate the crude oil and transport gas from the Rajasthan block. Beginning at the Mangala processing terminal and Raageshwari terminal respectively, the 24 inch crude oil and 8 inch gas pipeline passes through eight districts across two states, Rajasthan and Gujarat. The pipeline ends at Bhogat near Jamnagar on the western coast of India. There are buffer crude storage terminals at Radhanpur and Viramgam for sales to Indian Oil Corporation and off-take lines at Salaya for sales to the Reliance India Limited and Essar Oil refineries in Jamnagar.

Since its commissioning, total cumulative crude oil sales of 446 million barrels have been achieved through the existing pipeline facilities up to March 31, 2018. With the use of drag reducing agents, the proven dispatch capacity of the Mangala development pipeline has been enhanced to around 250,000 bbls per day. Given its length, the Mangala development pipeline incorporates a pipeline intrusion detection system to provide surveillance along its entire length by using fibre optics. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s pipeline operations received accreditation of both OHSAS: 18001 and ISO: 14001 systems in fiscal year 2018.

In fiscal year 2014, gas sales commenced through the 8 inches gas line. Capacity was further enhanced through installation of higher capacity gas compressors at Raageshwari and Viramgam terminals to nearly double gas sales capability; as well as modification of impellers of the mainline booster pumps at Viramgam. During fiscal year 2016, stabilization of the compressors and optimization of plant operations aided production.

In November 2015, the Salaya-Bhogat pipeline and terminal at Bhogat were commissioned and the first cargo of 500,000 barrels of Rajasthan crude oil was successfully loaded in December 2015 through the Bhogat terminal for Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (“MRPL”). The terminal has provided access to a larger market for Rajasthan crude. This should enable Cairn to diversify customer mix and reduce dependence on limited number of customers.

Bhogat Terminal Facilities

The Bhogat terminal in the Jamnagar district, Gujarat, is a 160 hectare site located eight kms from the Arabian Sea coast. The terminal will facilitate the storage and evacuation of crude oil by sea. The terminal consists of tankages with storages capacity of around 2.1 million barrels of Rajasthan crude. It also has associated facilities for the operation of terminal and marine export of crude. The evacuation facility includes two 24 inch sub-sea export pipelines from the Bhogat landfall point to the single point mooring system to enable crude transfer and a single point mooring system and sub-sea pipeline end manifold in deep sea to enable tanker berthing and loading. The terminal was commissioned in November 2015 and the dispatch of Rajasthan crude to MRPL has commenced.

Exploration

Cairn is rejuvenating its oil and gas exploration efforts in the prolific Barmer Basin. An integrated contract has been awarded for exploration and appraisal drilling campaign of 7 to18 exploration and appraisal wells. Well spud is expected by second quarter of fiscal year 2019.

Ravva

Ravva Block Production Sharing Contract

The production sharing contract for the exploration, development and production of the Ravva block (the “Ravva PSC”) was signed on October 28, 1994 (“Effective Date”) between GoI and a consortium consisting of ONGC, Videocon Industries Limited (formerly Videocon Petroleum Limited), Ravva Oil and Cairn Energy India Pty Limited (formerly known as Command Petroleum (India) Pty Limited) (“Command Petroleum”) with Command Petroleum being designated as the operator. In 1996, Cairn Energy Plc acquired Command Petroleum, including its interest in the Ravva block, and subsequently Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business (since merged with Vedanta) became the operator.

As at March 31, 2018, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business holds a 22.5% working interest in the Ravva block with the remaining interests currently held by ONGC (40%), Videocon Industries Limited (25%) and Ravva Oil (12.5%) (together the “Ravva Joint Operating Partners”). Ravva PSC is valid until October 27, 2019, unless the Ravva PSC is terminated earlier in accordance with its terms, but may be extended by GoI for a further period not exceeding five years, provided that in the event of commercial production of non-associated natural gas the PSC may be extended for a period not exceeding 35 years from the Effective Date. The MoPNG, through a notification dated March 28, 2016 issued a policy for the grant of an extension to the production sharing contracts signed by the GoI awarding small, medium sized and discovered fields to private joint ventures (the “Ravva Extension Policy”). The Ravva Extension Policy defines the framework for granting of the extension and covers 28 small and marginal fields, including the Ravva field.

The Ravva Extension Policy, amongst others, provides for an increased share of profit petroleum of 10% for the GoI during the extended term of the Ravva PSC. According to the terms of the Ravva Extension Policy, the joint operation partners have applied to the GoI seeking extension of the Ravva PSC by 10 years. Under the Ravva PSC, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business is entitled to recover 100% of exploration, development and costs of production from crude oil and natural gas sales before any profit is allocated among the parties.

As per the terms of the Ravva PSC, the crude oil and condensate produced from the Ravva block is being sold to both the public sector undertakings refineries and private refineries. As of March 31, 2018, commercial sales arrangements are in place for over 25,000 bopd with public sector undertakings and private refineries. All sales to the GoI nominees are to be valued at a F.O.B. selling price per barrel in US dollars, ascertained on Platts, of one or more crude oils of similar characteristics and quality or through the spot market for such crude oil, whichever price is determined by the parties to reflect more truly the current value of the sale.

The Ravva PSC also provides that royalties and cess are payable on production and sales respectively. The royalty rate on crude oil and casing head condensate is set at ₹ 481 per metric ton ($ 1.0 per barrel), regardless of the value of the crude oil. A levy on the production of crude oil under the provisions of the Oil Industry (Development) Act, 1974 of India (the “OIDA Cess”) is set by the Ravva PSC at ₹ 900 per metric ton of crude oil production ($ 1.8 per barrel).

The royalty payable on natural gas is set at 10% of the wellhead value of the natural gas (typically 9% of natural gas revenue). OIDA Cess is not payable on natural gas production. Royalties and OIDA Cess are capped by the Ravva PSC at these levels regardless of the generally prevailing royalty and cess rate. Payment of royalty and OIDA Cess payments are recoverable under the Ravva PSC before any profit is allocated among the parties. As ONGC originally discovered the Ravva block, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and other members of the Ravva Joint Operating Partner are obliged to make a series of production payments to ONGC based on cumulative crude oil production. The method of calculating the production payments is set out below.


	Gross Payment Owed to ONGC		Net Payment by Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business
	($ million)
For every 25 million barrels produced up to 75 million barrels		9.0		3.4
For every 5 million barrels produced between 75-100 million barrels		1.8		0.7
For every 5 million barrels produced between 100-225 million barrels		1.7		0.6
For every 5 million barrels produced between 225-250 million barrels		1.4		0.5
For every 5 million barrels produced over 250 million barrels		0.9		0.3

Disputes have arisen between the Ravva Joint Operating Partners over the interpretation of the Ravva PSC which have required arbitration. For example, a dispute arose between the GoI and Ravva Joint Operating Partners on the issue of excess cost recovery made by Ravva joint operation partners against the base development cost as mentioned in the Ravva PSC which has limited the escalation of such costs for cost recovery purposes.

The Ravva joint operation partners (excluding ONGC) initiated arbitration proceedings and the arbitral tribunal announced its award on January 18, 2011 broadly allowing companies including Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business to recover base development cost spent amounting to $ 278 million and disallowed an over-run of $ 22 million spent in respect of base development cost and directed 50.0% legal cost on the GoI. The High Court of Kuala Lumpur, on August 30, 2012, dismissed the GoI’s application for setting aside the award with costs. Further appeal by the GoI before the Court of Appeal, Kuala Lumpur and the Federal Court of Malaysia were also dismissed. The arbitration award in base development matter was in favour of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business, Videocon Industries and Ravva Oil Singapore and has attained finality, in so far as the Malaysian proceedings are concerned. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business, Videocon Industries and Ravva Oil Singapore have filed an application for enforcement of the said award before the High Court of Delhi as an additional measure of caution and the matter is listed for August 7, 2018. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business, Videocon Industries also initiated an arbitration proceeding against the GoI to determine the costs to be considered for cost recovery purposes, in connection with the ONGC carry. See “Item 8. Financial Information – Consolidated Statements and other Financial Information – Legal Proceedings” for further details.

Additionally, on August 14, 2015, GoI filed a suit and obtained an ex-parte stay-order from the High Court of Delhi against the determination of ‘quantum of costs’ by the arbitral tribunal. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business filed an appeal before the Court against the stay-order. The same appeal has been allowed by the Court through its order dated May 3, 2016 and the aforesaid stay-order obtained by the GoI in this matter has been set aside by the Division Bench of the High Court. The GoI filed a special leave petition against the Division Bench’s order, which will be heard by the Supreme Court at a date which will be made available by the Court. The next hearing before the Court in the GoI’s civil suit is scheduled for August 10, 2018.

Operations

During fiscal year 2018, the Ravva block produced 2,012 boepd, with a plant uptime of over 99%. The production of Ravva block decreased from 2,296 boepd in fiscal year 2017 to 2,012 boepd in fiscal year 2018, the decrease of 284 boepd in production was due to natural field decline.

The following table sets out the net average daily production of oil and gas from the Ravva block for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


Average Daily Production	Units	2016		2017		2018		% Change (2017 Vs. 2018)
Net operated	Boepd		3,448		2,296		2012		(12	%)
Oil	Bopd		3,015		2,047		1,722		(16	%)
Gas	Mmscfd		3		1		2		100	%

Facilities

Currently, there are eight unmanned offshore platforms and a 225-acre onshore processing facility at Surasaniyanam, Andhra Pradesh, for processing the natural gas and crude oil produced from the offshore field. The Ravva onshore terminal operates under internationally recognized environmental standard (ISO 14001) and occupational health and safety standard (OHSAS18001). The onshore facility has the capacity to handle 90,000 barrels per day of liquid, 95 mmscfd of natural gas, and 110,000 bbls of water injection per day. The terminal also has the capacity to store 1.0 mmbbls of crude oil and captive power generation capacity of 10 MW.

Cambay

Cambay Block Production Sharing Contract

Exploration, development and production of the Cambay block is governed by a production sharing contract between the GoI and a consortium consisting of ONGC, Tata Petrodyne Limited (“Tata”) and Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business (the “Cambay Joint Operating Partners”) which was signed on June 30, 1998 (“Effective Date”) (the “Cambay PSC”) and runs until 2023 unless the Cambay PSC is terminated earlier in accordance with its terms and may be extended for a further period of not exceeding 5 years, provided that in the event of commercial production of non-associated natural gas the Cambay PSC may be extended for period not exceeding 35 years from the Effective Date. By way of a notification dated April 7, 2017, the MoPNG issued a policy for the grant of extension to the production sharing contracts signed by the GoI awarding Pre-NELP Extension Policy. The Pre-NELP Extension Policy defines the framework for granting extensions for Pre-NELP blocks and covers both the Rajasthan and Cambay fields. The Pre-NELP Extension Policy, amongst others, provides for an increased share of profit petroleum of 10% for the GoI during the extended term of the Cambay PSC. The extension application for the Cambay block shall be due for filing in 2021. Vedanta’s participating interest in the Cambay Basin joint operation consists of a 40% interest in the Lakshmi, Gauri and CB-X development areas. The remaining interests in these development areas are held by ONGC (50%) and Tata (10%).

Operations

The Cambay block started production in calendar year 2002. During fiscal year 2018, the block produced 2,648 boepd with an uptime of over 99%. Production was supported by successful execution of infill drilling campaign which commenced in December, 2017 and was completed by May, 2018.

The following table sets out the net average oil and gas daily production from the Cambay block for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


Average Daily Production	Units	2016		2017		2018		% Change (2017 Vs. 2018)
Net operated	Boepd		2,546		2,308		2,648		15	%

Oil	Bopd		2,197		1,946		2,189		13	%

Gas	Mmscfd		2		2		3		50	%

Facilities

An 82-acre onshore processing facility at Suvali, processes natural gas and crude oil from the Lakshmi and Gauri fields. This facility has a capacity to process 150 mmscfd of natural gas and 10,000 bopd of crude oil and includes a three stage separator oil processing train, four storage tanks of combined capacity of 40,000 bbls as well as 4.8 MW captive power generation capacity. As part of the asset’s long term facility augmentation plan, a storage tank to expand the crude storage capacity at Suvali terminal and an offshore gas lift compressor package to provide artificial lift to the wells have been commissioned during fiscal year 2016. The processing plant and offshore infrastructure are certified to ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 standards.

Power Generation facilities

Cairn’s current power generation facilities are set up to address the captive power requirements to run its routine business operations. The total installed capacity across upstream and midstream operations are 165 MW. The following table sets forth information relating to the existing power capacity as of March 31, 2018:


Fiscal year commissioned	Capacity (MW)	Location	Fuel used
2010 and 2014	60.0	Rajasthan Mangala processing terminal	Steam turbine

2010	3.3	Rajasthan Raageshwari gas terminal	Gas based

2010	14.4	Gujarat Viramgam terminal	Gas Based

2015	39.0	Gujarat Bhogat Terminal	Gas Based

2010	33.8	Pipeline Above Ground Installations (AGI’s)	Gas Based

2003	4.8	Cambay	Gas based

1999 and 2003	10.0	Ravva	Gas based

Development

KG Onshore

KG-ONN-2003/1, Krishna Godavari Basin (49% participating interest)

The onshore block KG-ONN-2003/1, located in the Krishna Godavari basin in the state of Andhra Pradesh, was awarded in NELP V round to a joint venture between Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and ONGC. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and ONGC entered into a production sharing contract on September 23, 2005 (the “KG-ONN-2003/1 PSC”). Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business has 49% ownership interest in the block. Nagayalanka-1Z was the first discovery in the block. Following this discovery, the joint operation (with ONGC) for the block opted to enter phase-II of the exploration license. The second exploration well, Nagayalanka-SE-1, was drilled which resulted in a light oil discovery in the onshore part of the KG basin.

The Declaration of Commerciality for the two Nagayalanka discoveries (Nagayalanak-1z and Nagayalanka SE-1) was approved at the management committee meeting held in July 2014. Operatorship was then transferred to ONGC as per the KG-ONN-2003/1 PSC. Production from the existing well has commenced in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019 and a new campaign to drill three development wells is planned to commence in the second quarter of fiscal year 2019.

Exploration

In addition to the Rajasthan, Ravva and Cambay blocks, exploration activity was carried out in the year across other blocks in our portfolio. The main basins include the Orange Basin and the Krishna Godavari Basin.

KG Offshore

KG-OSN-2009/3, Krishna Godavari Basin (operator, 100% participating interest)

The offshore block KG-OSN-2009/3 covers an area of 1,988 square kms and is located in the Krishna Godavari Basin off the coast of the state of Andhra Pradesh. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business is the operator and holds a 100% interest in the block. Block KG-OSN-2009/3 is a shallow water block with water depths within the block ranging between near shore to 400 meters. The production sharing contract was signed on June 30, 2010 and the petroleum exploration license was granted in August 2010. The block is currently in the initial exploration phase which is extended until December 14, 2018 pursuant to an approval from MoPNG.

Interpretation of the seismic volumes has identified robust drillable prospects and a number of leads over different play types. A two-well exploratory drilling campaign commenced during the first quarter of fiscal year 2019 to establish the potential of the block.

Palar-Pennar

Palar-Pennar Basin (operator, 35% participating interest) (Relinquished)

The block is located in the Palar Pennar basin, south of the Krishna Godavari basin and north of the Cauvery basin off the east coast of India. Water depths in the block range from a few meters (near shore) to 400 meters at the eastern boundary of the block. The block covers an area of approximately 9,417 square kms. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business has a 35% ownership interest in the block and are the operator, while the consortium members ONGC and Tata hold interests of 35% and 30%, respectively.

The block was under force majeure since fiscal year 2010 as the location was falling within the prohibited zone notified by government authorities and permission to carry out exploration and petroleum operations in this area was not considered appropriate by the Department of Space, GoI. However, the application for the shift of the restricted boundary has been accepted by government authorities paving the way for further exploration activity. Approval for a special dispensation period in the block was granted for 30 months effective from January 1, 2015 and date of the expiry of Phase-1 completed on June 30, 2017. A three-well exploratory drilling campaign in the frontier block started in February 2017 and was completed on April 16, 2017.

All three commitment wells were drilled, plugged and abandoned as dry wells. The wells targeted different play types, which have been successful in the adjacent Krishna-Godavari and Cauvery Basins. The lack of hydrocarbons in these wells due to absence of source rock in the basin, which was envisaged as the principal risk in pre-drill prognosis, led to the decision on relinquishment of the same. All the formalities relating to the relinquishment were completed during the second quarter of fiscal year 2018.

Mumbai Offshore

Mumbai Offshore Basin (operator, 100% participating interest) (Relinquished)

This block was awarded under the NELP VIII licensing round and is located in the Mumbai Offshore Basin. The processing of the acquired 2,128 line km of 2D broadband seismic was completed in fiscal year 2015. During fiscal year 2016, regional prospectively analysis was completed, together with interpretation of the newly acquired PSTM processed broadband 2D seismic data. Due to poor prospects and high levels of risk revealed through the analysis, during fiscal year 2017, we had applied for the relinquishment. The first exploration phase expired on April 16, 2016 and all related formalities related to the relinquishment were completed in fiscal year 2018.

South Africa

Block 1—Orange Basin, South Africa (operating through a subsidiary, 60% participating interest)

Cairn signed a farm-in agreement with PetroSA, the national oil company of South Africa, for the 19,898 square kms off-shore block 1 (“Block 1”), located in the Orange Basin in South Africa. Cairn South Africa Proprietary Limited, which is wholly owned by Vedanta Limited through its subsidiaries, holds a 60% participating interest in Block 1 and is the operator.

Following farm-in and assignment of participating interest in the block in early calendar year 2013, Cairn acquired 1,981 square km of 3D seismic data in fiscal year 2014. Additionally, acquisition of 3,000 line km of 2D seismic data was concluded in early March, 2014. Both the 3D seismic and 2D seismic surveys were completed without incident and on time to fulfill the work program commitments for the first renewal phase.

A robust inventory of exploration prospects has been identified based on fiscal year 2014 3D seismic survey, which covers the outboard portion of Block 1. The outboard region is interpreted as oil-prone, constituting a play fairway that has not been tested by historical exploration drilling. Cairn along with the joint operation partner has deferred its entry to the second renewal phase awaiting clarity on the proposed regulatory changes and fiscal terms as given in the amendment bill of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002.

Sales and Marketing

Cairn’s ten largest customers accounted for approximately 100% of its revenue in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively. Four of Cairn’s customers accounted for approximately 90.0% of its business revenue in fiscal year 2016, 87% in fiscal year 2017 and 89.8% in fiscal year 2018.

In fiscal year 2018, Cairn sold 100% of the oil and gas it produces in the Indian market.

100% of the oil and gas that Cairn produced in fiscal year 2018 was sold under annual/monthly contracts specifying quantity and price. For Rajasthan and Cambay blocks, crude oil price in fiscal year 2018 was benchmarked to Bonny Light, West African low sulphur crude that is frequently traded in the region, with appropriate adjustments for crude quality. Similarly, for Ravva block, crude oil price in fiscal year 2018 was benchmarked to Tapis and Minas, South Asian crude. The crude oil price benchmarks are based on crude oil sales agreement.

Projects and Developments

Vedanta Limited plans to spend $ 600 to $ 800 million on oil and gas projects in fiscal year 2019. The oil and gas portfolio comprises of rich set of options ranging from enhanced oil recovery projects, tight oil and tight gas projects and exploration prospects.

In order to execute the projects, the Vedanta Limited – oil and gas business has devised a model to partner with world class oil field service companies for the end to end integrated execution of its projects. The scope of the project involves end to end turn-key development including exploration and appraisal, reservoir establishment, well construction and surface facilities development. The contracts are being awarded with built in risk-reward mechanism for early execution. The rewards (bonus) over and above the base costs are primarily linked to schedule adherence, reserve accretion and health, safety and environment performance as per the respective contracts for the projects.

Some of Vedanta Limited – oil and gas business’s principal projects are set out below:

Enhanced Oil recovery – Polymer in Bhagyam and Aishwariya fields and Alkaline Surfactant Polymer in Mangala, Bhagyam and Aishwarya Fields

The success of the polymer enhanced oil recovery at Mangala is being replicated at Bhagyam and Aishwariya fields to increase recovery rates. The contracts for the enhanced oil recovery projects have been awarded. Drilling has commenced during the first quarter of fiscal year 2019.

In addition, Cairn is commencing a 45 infill wells drilling campaign in the prolific Mangala field to accelerate near term production. The drilling has commenced from the first quarter of fiscal year 2019.

The Alkaline surfactant polymer project at Mangala shall enable incremental recovery from the prolific Mangala field. We have successfully tested the pilot project in the Mangala field which has created opportunities for Cairn to implement the alkaline surfactant polymer project. The project shall entail drilling of wells and developing infrastructure facilities at Mangala processing terminal.

The contract for drilling in the alkaline surfactant polymer project has been awarded, whereas, the contract for facilities in the project is yet to be awarded.

Barmer Hill and Satellite field development

The development of Barmer Hill and Satellite fields is a key growth driver for Cairn, with a focus on increasing production through the development of these fields. The Barmer Hill formation can be classified into two major development opportunities namely, Barmer Hill North consisting of oil prone porcellanite rocks and Barmer Hill South consisting of muddy porcellanites.

The Aishwariya Barmer hill is the first tight oil project being monetized. Aishwariya Barmer hill stage I production from seven existing wells commenced during second quarter of fiscal year 2018. Aishwariya Barmer hill stage II consists of drilling and fracking of 39 new wells, new surface facilities including well hook-ups, pipeline augmentation and installation of de-gassing facility. The contract for Aishwariya Barmer hill wells and facilities has been awarded. Work is ongoing on surface facility for Aishwariya Barmer hill while the drilling has commenced in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019.

Cairn has made 38 discoveries in the Rajasthan Block to date (out of which discoveries comprise of complex tight oil reservoirs). In order to monetize, these appraisal activities through global technology partnership will be carried out in the coming next 12 to 15 months, prior to conceptualizing and developing a full field development plan.

Raageshwari Deep Gas development

Gas development in the Raageshwari Deep Gas field continues to be a strategic priority. Phase I of the project is to ramp up the production to 45 mmscfd was completed in December 2017. Phase II of the project is being executed through an integrated development approach to ramp up overall Rajasthan gas production to 150 mmscfd and condensate production of 5 kboepd. Contracts for the drilling of wells as well as gas terminal have been awarded. The drilling of wells commenced from the first quarter of fiscal year 2019.

Surface facility upgrade at Mangala Processing Terminal

In order to maximize oil production, Cairn is focusing on increasing liquid handling capacity by 30% at the Mangala processing terminal. A series of measures are being planned to increase the liquid handling and water injection capacities in a phased manner.

Reserves and Other Oil and Gas Information

The definitions used for proved, proved developed and proved undeveloped oil and gas reserves are in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 4-10 of Regulation S-X. Proved oil and natural gas reserves are those estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids that geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be economically producible in future years from known reservoirs, under existing economic and operating conditions including a 12-month average price prior to the end of the reporting period, unless prices are defined by contract, and cost at the date of estimation.

DeGolyer and MacNaughton performed an independent evaluation of our 100% estimated reserves base as of March 31, 2018. See the reserves appraisal report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton, dated May 5, 2018, included as exhibit to this Annual Report.

All the proved reserves presented herein are based on production sharing contracts with the GoI. As such, all net reserves are based on an entitlement calculation which converts Cairn’s share of cost recovery and profit petroleum under each contract to a volume equivalent of net reserves in accordance with SEC guidance on calculating net reserves subject to these agreements. For further information on our proved reserves, see “Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production” on page F-122.

Proved Reserves

Proved reserves estimates are based on the requirement of reasonable certainty with technical and commercial assessments based on conventional industry practices. Only technologies that have been tested in the field and have been demonstrated to provide reasonably certain results with consistency and repeatability in the formation being evaluated or in an analogous formation are applied. To determine a reasonable certainty of commercial recovery, the process involves a general method of reserves assessment that relies on the integration of three types of data:

Well data used to assess the local characteristics and conditions of reservoirs and fluids.

Field-scale seismic data to allow the interpolation and extrapolation of these characteristics within and outside the immediate area of the local well control.

Data from relevant analogous fields. The data includes appraisal wells or sidetrack holes, full logging suites, core data, and fluid samples.

In the fields in which estimates of proved reserves have been prepared, reserves have only been estimated from those quantities of oil or gas in place that are above a penetrated hydrocarbon contact or above a lowest known hydrocarbon elevation. In the estimation of reserves associated with improved recovery operations, reserves are based on existing field performance parameters or from the performance of an analogous reservoir located in an adjacent field producing from the same geologic formation, in the same environment of deposition, with a similar geologic structure, containing the same drive mechanism, and containing in aggregate reservoir properties no more favorable than the reservoir of interest. In the estimation of reserves associated with enhanced oil recovery, estimates of reserves have been prepared on the basis of the performance of a pilot project that has exhibited a positive production response located within the field and reservoir in which the reserves have been attributed.

The table below sets forth our estimated net proved developed and undeveloped reserves of crude oil and natural gas by region as of March 31, 2018, based on average fiscal year 2018 prices:


	Reserves
Reserve category	Oil (mmbbls)		Natural Gas (bcf)		Total oil and gas products (mmboe)
Proved developed
India		38.59		9.87		40.23
South Africa		—		—		—

Proved undeveloped

Reserves

Reserve category

Oil
(mmbbls)

Natural Gas
(bcf)

Total oil and gas
products (mmboe)

India

8.77

1.30

8.99

South Africa

—

Total proved reserves

47.36

11.16

49.22

Note: Gas is converted to oil equivalent using a factor of 6,000 cubic feet of gas per 1 barrel of oil equivalent.

The table below summarizes information about the changes in total proved reserves for 2016, 2017 and 2018:

Total Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves


	Oil (mmbbls)			Natural gas (bcf)			Total oil and gas products (mmboe)
Reserves quantity information for the year ended March 31, 2016
March 31, 2015		90.09			4.89			90.91
Revisions of previous estimates		20.62			4.94			21.44
Improved recovery		—			—			—
Purchases or (sales) of minerals		—			—			—
Extensions and discoveries		—			—			—
Production		(32.61	)		(4.32	)		(33.33	)

March 31, 2016		78.10			5.51			79.02
Reserves quantity information for the year ended March 31, 2017
March 31, 2016		78.10			5.51			79.02
Revisions of previous estimates		7.53			3.16			8.05
Improved recovery		—			—			—
Purchases or (sales) of minerals		—			—			—
Extensions and discoveries		—			—			—
Production		(28.07	)		(2.96	)		(28.56	)

March 31, 2017		57.56			5.71			58.51
Reserves quantity information for the year ended March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017		57.56			5.71			58.51
Revisions of previous estimates		15.11			10.95			16.94
Improved recovery		2.96			—			2.96
Purchases or (sales) of minerals		—			—			—
Extensions and discoveries		0.23			—			0.23
Production		(28.50	)		(5.50	)		(29.42	)
March 31, 2018		47.36			11.16			49.22

Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves

Total proved reserves as at March 31, 2017 was 58.51 mmboe. For the year ending March 31, 2018, total revisions of 16.94 mmboe comprised an increase of 18.62 mmboe based on technical revisions due to improved production performance and the approval of proved undeveloped projects, and a decrease of 1.68 mmboe due to revisions based on commodity prices. These total revisions comprise 2.70 mmboe for Cambay block (CB/OS-2), 14.01 mmboe for Rajasthan block (RJ-ON-90/1), and 0.23 mmboe for Ravva block (PKGM-1). In fiscal year 2018, improved recovery of 2.96 mmboe were added from approved polymer injection project in Aishwariya field. Extensions and discoveries of 0.23 mmboe were on account of inclusion of the Guda and Kaameshwari West-2 fields which were approved for development. After adjusting the production of 29.42 mmboe, the total proved reserves as at March 31, 2018, were 49.22 mmboe.

Proved developed reserves as at March 31, 2017 were 57.87 mmboe. For the year ending March 31, 2018, total revisions of 11.55 mmboe comprised technical revisions of 12.74 mmboe which were due to improved production performance, primarily in the Rajasthan block. These positive technical revisions were offset by a decrease in 1.19 mmboe due to revision of commodity prices. These total revisions comprise 2.79 mmboe for Cambay Block, 8.55 mmboe for Rajasthan block and 0.21 mmboe for Ravva block. The improved performance of the waterfloods in Aishwariya and Bhagyam fields and the improved response to the polymer-augmented waterflood in the Mangala field represented the majority of the upward technical revision. In fiscal year 2018, extensions and discoveries of 0.23 mmboe were on account of inclusion of the Guda and Kaameshwari West-2 fields which were approved for development. After adjusting the production of 29.42 mmboe, the total proved developed reserves at March 31, 2018, were 40.23 mmboe. There was no progression from proved undeveloped to proved developed reserves during fiscal year 2018 and no related corresponding capital expenditure was incurred during the year.

Proved undeveloped reserves as at March 31, 2017, were 0.64 mmboe. In fiscal year 2018, total revisions of 5.39 mmboe comprised technical revisions of 5.88 mmboe associated with the addition of approved development projects for Aishwariya, Mangala, N-E, N-I, and Ravva fields. These positive technical revisions were offset by a decrease of 0.49 mmboe due to changes in commodity prices. These total revisions comprised a decrease of 0.09 mmboe in Cambay block, an increase of 5.46 mmboe in Rajasthan block and an increase of 0.02 mmboe in Ravva block. In fiscal year 2018, improved recovery of 2.96 mmboe were added from approved polymer injection project in Aishwariya field. The proved undeveloped reserves as of March 31, 2018, were 8.99 mmboe. There are no material amounts of proved undeveloped reserves that remain undeveloped for five years or more.

Internal controls over reserves estimation process

Cairn maintains an internal staff of petroleum engineers, geoscientists and economists who work closely with our independent reserves engineers to ensure the integrity, accuracy and timeliness of data furnished to our independent reserves engineers in their estimation process and who have knowledge of the specific properties under evaluation. All the activities of reserves estimation are being coordinated by our Reserves Manager and our Chief Reservoir Engineer who are primarily responsible for overseeing the preparation of our reserves estimates and for the internal control over our reserves estimation. The Chief Reservoir Engineer has more than 26 years of industry experience in the exploration and production sectors as a practicing reservoir engineer, with broad experience in reserves assessment, field development and management.

During each fiscal year, our technical team meets with DeGolyer and MacNaughton (D&M) who are provided with full access to complete and accurate information pertaining to the properties to be evaluated and all applicable personnel. In addition, other pertinent data is provided such as seismic information, geologic maps, well logs, production tests, material balance calculations, well performance data, operating procedures and relevant economic information.

Independent reserves estimation

Reserves estimates presented herein for our Indian assets are based on the D&M Reserves Reports, completed on May 5, 2018, a copy of which has been filed as an exhibit to this Annual Report.

D&M, a Delaware corporation with offices in Dallas, Houston, Calgary, Moscow and Algiers, has been providing consulting services to the oil and gas industry for more than 75 years. The firm has more than 150 professionals, including engineers, geologists, geophysicists, petro physicists and economists that are engaged in the appraisal of oil and gas properties, the evaluation of hydrocarbon and other mineral prospects, basin evaluations, comprehensive field studies and equity studies related to the domestic and international energy industry. D&M restricts its activities exclusively to consultation and does not accept contingency fees, nor does its own operating interests in any oil, gas or mineral properties, or securities or notes of its clients. The firm subscribes to a code of professional conduct, and its employees actively support their related technical and professional societies. The firm is a Texas Registered Engineering Firm.

Thomas C. Pence, Senior Vice President with D&M was responsible for the preparation of the D&M Reserves Report. Mr. Pence studied at the Texas A&M University and graduated as a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering in the year 1982. He is a registered professional engineer in the State of Texas and a member of the International Society of Petroleum Engineers. He has more than 35 years of experience in oil and gas reservoir studies and reserves evaluations.

The D&M Reserves Report covered 100% of our total proved reserves. In connection with the preparation of the D&M Reserves Report, D&M prepared its own estimates of our proved reserves. In the process of the reserves evaluation, D&M did not independently verify the accuracy and completeness of information and data furnished by Cairn with respect to ownership interests, oil and gas production, well test data, historical costs of operation and development, product prices, or any agreements relating to current and future operations of the fields and sales of production. However, if in the course of the examination something came to the attention of D&M that brought into question the validity or sufficiency of any such information or data, D&M did not rely on such information or data until it had satisfactorily resolved its questions relating thereto or had independently verified such information or data. D&M independently prepared reserves estimates to conform to the guidelines of the SEC, including the criteria of “reasonable certainty,” as it pertains to expectations about the recoverability of reserves in future years, under existing economic and operating conditions, consistent with the definition in Rule 4-10(a) of Regulation S-X. D&M issued the D&M Reserves Report based upon its evaluation. D&M’s primary economic assumptions in estimates included oil and gas sales prices determined according to SEC guidelines, future expenditures and other economic assumptions (including interests, royalties and taxes) as provided by Cairn. The assumptions, data, methods and procedures used, including the percentage of our total reserves reviewed in connection with the preparation of the D&M Reserves Report were appropriate for the purpose served by such report, and D&M used all methods and procedures as it considered necessary under the circumstances to prepare such reports.

However, uncertainties are inherent in estimating quantities of reserves, including many factors beyond our and our independent reserves engineers’ control. Reserves engineering is a subjective process of estimating subsurface accumulations of oil and natural gas that cannot be measured in an exact manner, and the accuracy of any reserves estimate is a function of the quality of available data and its interpretation. As a result, estimates by different engineers often vary, sometimes significantly. In addition, physical factors such as the results of drilling, testing and production subsequent to the date of an estimate, economic factors such as changes in product prices or development and production expenses, and regulatory factors, such as royalties, development and environmental permitting and concession terms, may require revision of such estimates. Cairn’s operations may also be affected by unanticipated changes in regulations concerning the oil and gas industry in the countries in which Cairn operates, which may impact our ability to recover the estimated reserves. Accordingly, oil and natural gas quantities ultimately recovered will vary from reserves estimates.

Oil and gas production, production prices and production costs

The following tables set forth our production of crude oil and natural gas on entitlement interest basis, by geographic area for the years ended March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018:

Hydrocarbon production by geographic area


	For the year ended March 31,
	2016						2017						2018
	Crude Oil (mmbbls)		Natural Gas⁽¹⁾ (bcf)		Total (mmboe)		Crude Oil (mmbbls)		Natural Gas⁽¹⁾ (bcf)		Total (mmboe)		Crude Oil (mmbbls)		Natural Gas⁽¹⁾ (bcf)		Total (mmboe)

India⁽²⁾		32.61		4.32		33.33		28.07		2.96		28.56		28.50		5.50		29.42

Mangala⁽³⁾		21.33		—		21.33		20.01		—		20.01		20.28		—		20.28

Others		11.28		4.32		12.00		8.06		2.96		8.55		8.22		5.50		9.14
Sri Lanka⁽⁴⁾		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—

South Africa⁽⁵⁾		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—

Total		32.61		4.32		33.33		28.07		2.96		28.56		28.50		5.50		29.42

Notes:

(1)	Natural gas production figures are the production volumes of natural gas available for sale, excluding flared and re-injected gas and gas consumed in operations.

(2)	For the computation of EI production, Ravva royalty fees have not been netted off.

(3)	Mangala field is separately included as it contains more than 15% of our total proved reserves.

(4)	The Sri Lanka Block was relinquished as at March 31, 2016.

(5)	Cairn’s South Africa operations are still in exploration stage.

The following table sets forth our average sales prices by geographic area and by-product type for the last three years:


	India (US $)
During the year ended March 31, 2016
Average sale prices
Oil, (per barrel)		40.8
Natural gas, (per mscf)		7.1
During the year ended March 31, 2017
Average sale prices
Oil, (barrel)		43.3
Natural gas, (mscf)		7.7
During the year ended March 31, 2018
Average sale prices
Oil, (barrel)		50.7
Natural gas, (mscf)		7.2

The following table sets forth our average production costs by geographic area for the last three fiscal years:

For the Year Ended March 31,

Unit of Measurement

2016

2017

2018

India

Oil and gas

($ per boe)

21.8

20.4

21.5

The cost of production for oil and gas business consists of:

•

expenditure incurred towards the production of crude oil and natural gas including statutory levies, such as cess, royalties (except Rajasthan block) and production payments payable pursuant to the production sharing contracts as well as operational expenditures such as costs relating to manpower, repairs and maintenance of facilities, power generation and fuel for such facilities, water injection, insurance, storage, transportation and freight of crude oil and natural gas, among others. The total production cost is divided by the net interest quantity of oil and gas produced to determine the cost of production per barrel of oil equivalent See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects – Factors Affecting Results of Operations—Royalty and cess payments” for further details.

Drilling and other exploratory and development activities

The following table sets forth the number of net productive and dry exploratory and development wells drilled for the last three fiscal years. For more information about our on-going exploration and production activities, see “Information on the Company — Business Overview—Our Business — Our Oil and Gas Business — Principal Facilities”.

Net Productive and Dry Exploratory and Development Wells


	2016		2017		2018
	(Number of wells)
Net productive exploratory wells drilled
India		—		—		—
Sri Lanka		—		—
South Africa		—		—		—

Total productive exploratory wells drilled		—		—		—
Net dry exploratory wells drilled:
India		—		0.4		0.7
Sri Lanka		—		—
South Africa		—		—		—

Total dry exploratory wells drilled		—		0.4		0.7
Total number of net exploratory wells drilled		—		0.4		0.7
Net productive development wells drilled:
India		20.3		—		13.7
Sri Lanka		—		—
South Africa		—		—		—

Total productive development wells drilled		20.3		—		13.7
Net dry development wells drilled:
India		—		—		—
Sri Lanka		—		—
South Africa		—		—		—
Total dry development wells drilled		—		—		—

Total number of net development wells drilled		20.3		—		13.7

Present activities

The following table summarizes the number of wells in the process of being drilled as of March 31, 2018.

Number of Wells Being Drilled as of March 31, 2018


	Gross		Net
	(Number of wells)
Wells drilling
India		2		1.1
South Africa		—		—

Total wells drilling		2		1.1

Oil and gas properties, wells, operations and acreage

Cairn’s blocks containing proved reserves have leases which currently expire in May 14, 2020 for Rajasthan block, October 27, 2019 for Ravva block and June 29, 2023 for Cambay block. Estimates of proved reserves disclosed as of March 31, 2018, and all preceding periods for each block represent only those quantities that were estimated to be recoverable prior to the expiration date of the respective PSC. No reserves were estimated or included for quantities that may be recoverable after the expiration date of the PSCs.

The following tables show the number of gross and net productive oil and natural gas wells and total gross and net developed and undeveloped oil and natural gas acreage in which Cairn had interests as of March 31, 2018.

Gross and Net Productive Wells and Gross and Net Developed and Undeveloped Acreage

As of March 31, 2018

Oil

Natural gas

Gross

Net

Gross

Net

(Number of wells)

Gross and net productive wells⁽¹⁾

India

462

324.70

47.00

31.30

South Africa

—

Total gross and net productive wells

462.00

324.70

47.00

31.30


	As of March 31, 2018
	Gross (acres)		Net (acres)
Gross and net developed acreage⁽²⁾
India		40,315		20,350
South Africa		—		—

Total gross and net developed acreage		40,315		20,350


	As of March 31, 2018
	Gross (acres)		Net (acres)
Gross and net undeveloped acreage⁽³⁾
India		1,430,508		1,086,045
South Africa		4,916,826		2,950,096

Total gross and net undeveloped acreage		6,347,334		4,036,141

Notes:

(1)	A gross well or acre is a well or acre in which a working interest is owned, while a net well or acre is deemed to exist when the sum of fractional ownership working interests in gross wells or acres equals one.

(2)	Developed acreage is acreage assignable to productive wells; productive wells include producing wells and wells mechanically capable of producing.

(3)

Undeveloped acreage encompasses those leased acres on which wells have not been drilled or completed to a point that would permit the production of economic quantities of oil or gas regardless of whether such acreage contains proved reserves. Users of this information should not confuse undeveloped acreage with undrilled acreage held by production under the terms of the lease.

Cairn’s lease holdings comprise five blocks in India of which the largest is the Rajasthan block in terms of acreage which accounts for approximately 52% of the total acreage. KG Offshore, being the second largest block constitutes approximately 33% of the total acreage. Cairn also has one block in South Africa.

Delivery Commitments

Crude Oil

Cairn sells crude oil from its various operating fields under production, under a variety of contractual obligations. Prior to start of every fiscal year under the various production sharing contracts between Cairn and GoI, GoI nominates volumes that would be up-lifted by its nominee refinery based upon the expected production from the field during the year. Cairn is free to tie-up with other domestic refineries (including private refineries) for the surplus available volume that is not nominated by GoI.

For fiscal year 2019, GoI has nominated approximately 95 kbpd of Rajasthan block and 14 kbpd of Ravva block. Cairn has reasonable endeavor crude oil sales agreements and there is no minimum committed quantity, thus, resulting in no financial implication.

Natural Gas

For Rajasthan block, GoI allocates gas to consumers from time to time. The delivery commitments for Cairn’s share of gas sales (participating interest) for the month of July 2018 is approximately 5.4 mmscf per day which is based on estimated gas production from the fields.

For Cambay block, Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s share of gas sales commitment (participating interest) for the month of July 2018 and August 2018 is approximately 3.1 mmscf per day and 1.6 mmscf per day respectively. For Ravva block, there is no annual commitment for gas sales for fiscal year 2019.

Cairn believes its domestic proved reserves will be sufficient to deliver the above mentioned contracted volumes. In case the actual delivered gas quantity does not meet committed gas quantity, then the financial implications are a discount of up to a maximum of 20% on the gas price offered to buyers based on the provisions of the respective gas sales agreement.

Distribution, Logistics and Transport

Rajasthan

The Mangala processing terminal has been designed as a centralized hub facility to handle crude oil production from the fields in the Rajasthan block that have been discovered by Cairn. Once crude oil reaches the Mangala processing terminal, generally via the pipeline, it is processed and transported to public-sector customers or private refineries that have purchased it. See “— Facilities – Mangala Processing Terminal” for more details.

Cambay

The 82-acre onshore processing facility at Suvali, processes natural gas and crude oil from the Lakshmi and Gauri fields. It has a capacity to process 150 mmscfd of natural gas and 10 kbopd of crude oil and includes a three stage separator oil processing train, four storage tanks of combined capacity of 37,700 bbls as well as 4.8 MW captive power generation capacity. The processing plant and offshore infrastructure are certified to ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 standards.

The crude oil produced from Suvali Onshore Terminal is transported via truck tankers approximately 15 km to Adani Hazira Port Private Limited. Thereafter, the crude cargo is sold to coastal refineries via sea tankers.

The processed natural gas is sold through the Gujarat State Petronet Limited pipeline facility to CLP India Private Limited and Gujarat Gas Corporation Limited.

Ravva

Currently, there are eight unmanned offshore platforms and a 225-acre onshore processing facility at Surasaniyanam for processing the natural gas and crude oil produced from the offshore field. The Ravva onshore terminal operates as per the internationally recognized environmental standard (ISO 14001) and the occupational health and safety standard (OHSAS18001). Onshore facility has the capacity to handle 70kbopd of crude oil, 95 mmscfd of natural gas and 110,000 bbls of water injection per day. The terminal also has the capacity to store 1.0 mmbbls of crude oil.

The crude produced from the wells in the Ravva block is sent to the onshore processing terminal via subsea pipelines. The oil is processed and stored in the storage tanks at the terminal. Thereafter, the crude oil is transported to local refineries (nominated by GoI) via 20 inch export line (approximately 16 km long) from the terminal to a ship tanker, which is moored to the single point mooring buoy located in the field. The single point mooring buoy and associated equipment are together termed as tanker mooring and loading facility.

Natural gas from the wells after treatment is transported to buyer’s (GAIL) pipeline.

Market share and Competition

The oil and gas exploration and production industry in India is competitive. Acreages to explore and exploit hydrocarbon resources are put up for bidding by the MoPNG under HELP policy, for Vedanta Limited – oil and gas business faces competition from Indian companies, including ONGC and Reliance Industries Limited, and major integrated and large independent multinational companies. The GoI has launched special bid rounds for small discoveries, thereby further enhancing competition to acquire acreage. The GoI has a major stake in ONGC, which has been awarded the majority of the exploration blocks offered by the GoI in the nine NELP licensing rounds held so far. Many of these competitors have access to financial or other resources substantially in excess of those available to Vedanta Limited – oil and gas business and accordingly may be better positioned to acquire and exploit prospects, hire personnel and market production. In addition, many of our competitors may be better able to withstand the effect of external changes in industry conditions such as worldwide crude oil and natural gas prices and levels of supply and the application of government regulations, which affect our business and which are beyond our control.

Cairn is a significant contributor to India’s domestic crude oil production, operating approximately 25% as derived from the provisional data published by Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell of MoPNG statistics as of March 2018.

Seasonality

Our oil and gas business is not subject to seasonality as demand for oil and gas is consistent throughout the year.

Our Iron Ore Business

Overview

Our iron ore business is carried out in the states of Goa and Karnataka. Our iron ore business includes exploration, mining and processing of iron ore. In fiscal year 2018, we produced approximately 7.1 million dmt of saleable iron ore fines and lumps. The sales for fiscal year 2018 were at 7.6 million dmt (including sales of ore purchased through an e-auction of the ore confiscated by the government prior to the suspension of 2012) as compared to sales of 10.1 million dmt in fiscal year 2017.

We currently operate a metallurgical coke plant with an installed rated capacity of 522,000 tpa and a pig iron plant with a rated capacity of 832,000 tpa. We manufacture pig iron through the blast furnace route. We have a patent for the technology for the manufacture of energy recovery based metallurgical coke.

In August 2011, the iron ore mining activities in Karnataka were temporarily suspended by the Supreme Court of India due to alleged environmental violations. The suspension was subsequently lifted in April 2013 and operations resumed in December 2013 after obtaining the necessary statutory clearances. Although we resumed operations in Karnataka after receiving the stage I forest clearance from the state government of Karnataka and a temporary working permission from the MoEF, the temporary working permission expired on July 31, 2014. Karnataka operations were suspended for the period from August 1, 2014 to February 27, 2015. From February 28, 2015, the operations in Karnataka were resumed after all statutory clearances are in place.

On August 22, 2011, we acquired a 51.0% ownership interest in WCL, a Liberian iron ore exploration company which was a wholly owned subsidiary of Elenilto Minerals & Mining LLC, for a cash consideration of $ 90 million. On December 20, 2012, we acquired the remaining 49.0% of the outstanding common shares of WCL from Elenilto Minerals & Mining LLC for a cash consideration of $ 34 million.

In fiscal year 2016, the Supreme Court of India also imposed an interim restriction on the maximum annual excavation from the mining leases in the state of Goa to 20 million tons subject to determination of final capacity by an expert committee appointed by the Court. Further, in its order, the Court held that all mining leases in Goa including ours expired in 2007, and no mining operations were carried out until August 2014, when the High Court of Bombay at Goa pronounced an order to renew mining leases in Goa. The MoEF and the state government also revoked their suspension orders subject to limits imposed by the Supreme Court of India. Registration of mining leases in Goa was completed and the Goa State Pollution Control Board in their meeting on July 10, 2015 considered renewal of consent to operate under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. On August 10, 2015, operations at the Codli mine resumed and operations at the remaining mines resumed from the second half of fiscal year 2016 after receiving the consent to operate and the approval of our mining plan applications.

The Supreme Court passed its final order in the matter on February 7, 2018 wherein it set aside the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the state of Goa. The Supreme Court directed all lease holders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (“MMDR”) Act. Our mines in the State of Goa were impacted consequent to the judgement of the Supreme Court.

In October 2015, we proposed to the state government of Jharkhand to set up a 1 mtpa pig iron plant in Jharkhand, for Dhobil mining lease. On May 6, 2016, Stage-I Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) was signed between the state government of Jharkhand and Vedanta Limited to set up a 1 mtpa hot metal plant. Further on November 1, 2017, Stage II MoU was signed. The exploration drilling in our lease area commenced in May 2017 and report was submitted to the state government of Jharkhand in October 2017. The exploration report was examined by a technical committee comprising experts from Geological Survey of India, IBM and state geology and mining departments. In March 2018, the technical committee approved report for the purposes of issuing a letter of intent to Vedanta Limited for the grant of a mining lease for the Dhobil iron ore mine. We are still awaiting for the letter of intent to further carry on the process.

Principal Products

Iron ore

Our iron ore reserves consist of both lump and fine ore. As of March 31, 2018, the percentage of lump ore in the reserves was approximately 20.0% in Karnataka. The mines in Karnataka are of higher grade deposits, ranging between 56.0% to 60.0% iron. We sell lump ore from our mines in Karnataka primarily to domestic pig iron or steel producers. The majority of other iron ore produced by Goan mines was sold to purchasers in China.

Pig iron

We produce basic, foundry and nodular grade pig iron in various sub grades for steel mills and foundries.

Metallurgical coke

We also produce metallurgical coke, which is primarily used for captive consumption for producing pig iron in India.

Principal Facilities

Overview

The following map shows details of the locations of our iron ore business in India and around the world:

LOGO

Mines

Goa mines

Our iron ore operations in Goa consisted of four major iron ore mines, namely Codli, Sonshi, Bicholim and Surla. In addition, we derived ore production from several satellite mines in North Goa. Our Goa leases were originally granted as mining concessions by the government during the Portuguese regime from 1955 onwards, and in 1987 these concessions were converted to mining leases. Before operations were suspended in September 2012, we operated a total of twenty one mining leases in Goa representing an area of approximately 1,690 hectares (includes one third-party lease on contract, representing an area of approximately 62 hectares). In January 2015, the state government of Goa revoked the mining suspension order, and in March 2015 MoEF has likewise revoked the suspension of environmental clearances. Subsequently, the lease deeds were executed and registered as of August 2015 to resume production for all working leases. The Supreme Court passed its final order in the matter on February 7, 2018 wherein it set aside the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the State of Goa. The Supreme Court directed all lease holders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act.

We carried out exploration in grid patterns of 100 meters by 100 meters at the initial stage of exploration, followed by grid patterns of 50 meters by 50 meters. Core samples were analyzed and used to interpret the ore body for the preparation of geological cross sections and the classification of the ore as either crude ore, sub-grade ore or mineral reject. Drill core sampling was undertaken on entire holes and the drill core material was sampled at the sample preparation facilities.

The gross value of fixed assets for our Goa operations, including capital works-in-progress, was ₹ 5,634 million ($ 87 million) as of March 31, 2018.

(i) Codli mines:

The Codli group of mines is situated in south of Goa, approximately 600 kms south of Mumbai and 50 kms east of Panaji, the capital of Goa. It is an open-pit operation and the nearest railway stations, Curchorem and Margao, are approximately 15 kms and 40 kms, respectively, from the mine. There is an airport 55 kms from the mine at Dabolim. The river loading points at Sanvordem (Capxem) and Curchorem are approximately 12 kms and 14 kms, respectively, from the Codli mines while the port is approximately 40 nautical miles from the river loading point.

The Codli mines cover an area of approximately 340 hectares and were operated under the terms and conditions stipulated in four contiguous leases, three of which were owned by us with the remaining lease being owned by a third-party. We owned an additional two mining leases to the northwest of the current Codli mine operations where exploration was undertaken.

Exploration at the Codli mines began in 1966 and the mine first commenced production in 1973. Production at the mine reached 3 mmtpa by 1995. This mine had environmental clearance for a production level of 7 mmtpa untill the date of order passed by Supreme Court of India to discontinue the mining operations.

At the Codli mines, the lower grade iron formation was folded and subsequently eroded into basinal areas amenable to open-pit mining. Economically mineable material occurred over an area of about 3.1 kms by 1.6 kms and was located between 84 meters above sea level and 50 meters below sea level. The formations showed a general northwest-southeast trend with shallow to moderate dips towards the northeast with local reversals. The footwall comprised manganiferous clay and decomposed quartzites and the stratigraphy of the ore body is cross cut by altered dolerite dykes and sills which were manifested by pink clayey zones in the mine area.

The Codli mines are multi-pit, multi-lease fully mechanized mining units. The open-pits have a bench height of 7 meters, haulage roads of 25 meters width and an overall pit slope of 26 degrees. The Codli mines have 14 basins, of which 5 pits were exhausted. The lateritic overburden was removed either by ripping or dozing, and loaded by excavators and/or wheel loaders into heavy earth moving machinery such as rigid dumpers and articulated dumpers. Hauling within the mine was also done by rigid and articulated dumpers. An ore stockpile was maintained at all times to continuously feed the processing plants.

We had extensive ore processing facilities for upgrading the ore, which included crushing, dry screening, scrubbing, log washing, classifying, hydrocycloning, and magnetic separation with a wet high- intensity magnetic separator. The four Codli processing plants were between 1 and 18 years old and throughput capacity of the four Codli processing plants was 10 mmtpa. The processed ore was transported by road to a riverhead jetty by 10 ton tipper trucks and then further transported by barges to the Goa ports or transhipper for onward shipment. One plant was provided with a dry circuit to process high grade ore, while the remaining four wet plants process low grade ores. The Codli processing plants underwent regular maintenance and annual repairs were conducted during the monsoon season.

During fiscal year 2018, we had undertaken an exploration and evaluation program at the Codli mines which involved drilling a total of 79,379 meters in depth in 1,181 holes. The Codli mine deposits were extensively sampled.

Power at the Codli mines was supplied through a government grid supply network with a maximum contracted demand of 5,000 kVA. The site’s full water requirements were met from the rainwater accumulated in exhausted pits. In fiscal year 2018, 2.4 million wmt of crude ore was produced from the Codli mines.

The economic cut-off grade at the Codli mines was determined by the requirement to meet various sales contracts. We operate on a 50.0% iron operational cut-off grade in practice, as compared to the statutory cut-off grade of 45.0% iron.

We operated the Gauthona Dusrifal mine, the lease of which was held by M/s Timblo Private Limited, as an ore raising contractor since 1989. This mining concession was granted in 1958 to M/s Timblo Private Limited, which owned and operated the mine until 1988. Since 1983, we had a common boundary working agreement with M/s Timblo Private Limited and, in 1989, we acquired control of 40.8 hectares of the leasehold area. This mine is contiguous to the Codli mines. The mining method at the Gauthona Dusrifal mine was the same as that of the Codli mines described above. During fiscal years 2017 and 2018, there was no ore production from the Gauthona Dusrifal mine.

(ii) Sonshi mine

The Sonshi mine is situated in the north of Goa, approximately 34 kms from Panaji and approximately 40 kms north of the Codli mines. It comprises an open-pit mine. The area is well connected by metaled roads and the nearest railway station is at Tivim, approximately 25 kms from the Sonshi mine. The river loading point, Amona, is nine km from the site and the port is approximately 35 nautical miles from the river loading point. The airport is approximately 50 kms from the Sonshi mine.

The leasehold area of the Sonshi mine is 62 hectares. The Sonshi mine was operating under deemed consent until the temporary suspension of mining activities relating to iron ore by the state government of Goa. Due to the narrow width of the leasehold area, we had entered into common boundary working agreements with adjoining lessees to facilitate mining operations. The original mining concession was granted in 1953 to Cosme Costa & Sons. Production at the mine commenced in 1958. The agreements entered into by us with Cosme Costa & Sons for the raising and sale of iron ore were in place till March 31, 2018. The Sonshi mine had environmental clearance for a production level of 3.0 mmtpa till the date of order of Supreme Court of India to discontinue the mining operations.

The area surrounding the Sonshi mine is covered with laterite capping underlain by lumpy ore zone. The ore deposit at the Sonshi mine forms the northern limb of the northwest-southeast trending syncline. The formations dip 50 degrees to 60 degrees northeast. The principal deposit of the Sonshi mine comprises three distinct ore bodies that are folded into a syncline. The youngest ore body has a width of 50 meters, while the other ore bodies dip steeply to the northeast and have widths of approximately 20 meters to 25 meters. The intervening parting between the ore bodies comprised 50 meters of manganiferous clay and a 30 meter wide limonitic zone separating one ore body from the footwall phyllite. The depth extent of these bands has been outlined with deep drilling. Hematite is the major economic mineral in each of the bands.

The open-pit mining operations at the Sonshi mine were fully mechanized. The hard laterite capping is loosened either by drilling, blasting or ripping/dozing. The soft sub-lateritic zone was excavated and transported to respective laterite, clay and ore stacks. The material was then reloaded into smaller 10-ton trucks and transported to the plants for processing and beneficiation, which involved crushing, scrubbing, log washing, classifying, double stage cycloning and thickening. The waste was transported to a dump stockpile six to seven km away. Processing operations for the Sonshi mine were similar to those of the Codli mines described above. The processed ore was transported to the Amona jetty, loaded in barges and sent to Mormugao port approximately 35 nautical miles away.

There was no processing plant on-site. The extracted ore was transported by a fleet of contractors with 10-ton trucks to the processing plants at Amona (approximately 9 kms away), the Surla Mine beneficiation plant (approximately 4 kms away) and at Cudnem (approximately 6 kms away). The combined throughput capacity of the processing plants was 8.4 mmtpa till the date of order passed by Supreme Court to discontinue the mining operations. The plants underwent regular maintenance and annual repairs were carried out during the monsoon season.

No exploration activity was carried out in the mine during fiscal year 2018. The Sonshi mine was sampled in vertical and inclined drill holes with a total of 66,766 meters being drilled in 644 holes as of March 31, 2018.

Power at the mine was supplied through a government grid supply network and the maximum contracted demand was 1,000 KVA. A 625 KVA diesel generator was also available to supply power. In fiscal year 2018, 0.25 million wmt of crude ore was produced from the Sonshi mine.

The economic cut-off grade at the Sonshi mine was determined by the requirement to meet various sales contracts and the need to maintain stockpiles to meet the contract. We operated on a 50.0% iron operational cut-off grade in practice, as compared to the statutory cut-off grade of 45.0% iron.

We acquired an adjoining mining lease for the Mareta Sodo mine in 2004 from Pandurang Timblo Industries. This mining concession was granted in 1955 and was operated intermittently until the mine was transferred to us in November 2004. This mine had environmental clearance by the MoEF for production of 1 mmtpa till the date of order of Supreme Court to discontinue the mining operations. As of March 31, 2018, 17,886.8 meters have been drilled in 114 boreholes on the leased area. The mining method of the Mareta Sodo mine was the same as that of the Sonshi mine described above.

In fiscal year 2018, 0.31 million wmt crude ore was produced from this mine.

(iii) Sesa Resources Limited, Bicholim and Surla:

Sesa Resources Limited and its subsidiary Sesa Mining Corporation Limited extracted iron ore from 11 mining leases spread across a total of approximately 970 hectares in Goa. Sesa Resources Limited’s operations consisted of two major iron ore mining areas, one in Bicholim and the other in Surla, both located in North Goa and which together accounted for approximately 90.0% of Sesa Resources Limited’s total estimated iron ore reserves as of March 31, 2018. However, the Supreme Court has directed all leaseholders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations in Goa with effect from March 16, 2018 until mining leases and environmental clearances are granted afresh in accordance with the provisions of the MMDR Act. The Bicholim mine consisted of five contiguous mining leases covering an area of 478.5 hectares in the north of Goa. The Surla mine consisted of three contiguous mining leases covering an area of 254.5 hectares in the recognized iron ore belt of Pale-Velguem-Bicholim-Shirgao in the north of Goa. Mining operations started at the Bicholim mine and the Surla mine in 1958. Processed ore from the Bicholim and Surla mines was transported by Sesa Resources Limited to loading jetties at Sarmanas and Surla/Sinori in north of Goa, and then loaded into barges and sent to Mormugao port in Goa, India, where it was shipped to customers. Sesa Resources Limited’s mining assets included processing plants, barges, jetties, transhippers and loading capacities at the Mormugao port. In fiscal year 2018, the combined production of the Bicholim and Surla mines was 1.3 million wmt of crude ore.

(iv) Shipbuilding Division:

We also have a ship building division which commenced operations in 1984 for the construction and repair of inland mini bulk carriers owned by us as its primary activity as well as supporting our core activities including the export of iron ore and the import of coke and coal.

The facilities of the ship building division comprises a slipway, several sheds, cranes, a quayside with water depth of 3 meters, gas manifold system and docking equipment. The ship building division has designed and built various types of vessels such as barges, pusher tugboats, oil recovery vessels and landing crafts. The ship building division was the first to design and build hatch covers for barges in Goa for shipment of fines during the monsoon season. As of March 31, 2018, the ship building division was certified ISO 9001-2000 Quality Management System in 2000, ISO 14001-2004 Environment Management System in 2004 and OHSAS 18001-2007 for Occupational Health Management System. This division has not constructed any ships during fiscal year 2018.

(v) Other leases/mines

In addition to the Codli mines and right to the third-party mining lease at the Sonshi mine, we had 11 additional mining leases, of which five were non-operative leases. The operative mines were the Sanquelim mines with three contiguous leases with an environmental clearance of 0.2 mmtpa, the Orasso Dongor mine of 0.2 mmtpa, the Botvadeacho Dongor mine of 0.5 mmtpa and the Mareta sodo mine of 1.0 mmtpa till the date of order of Supreme Court of India to discontinue the mining operations.

The economic cut-off grade at these other mines was determined by the requirement to meet various sales contracts and the need to maintain stockpiles to meet the contracts. We operated on a 50.0% iron operational cut-off grade in practice, as compared to the statutory cut-off grade of 45.0% iron.

Karnataka

A. Narrain

Our main operations in Karnataka are at the A. Narrain mine which is located approximately 200 kms northwest of Bangalore. The open-pit mine is operated by us and is well connected by rail, with the nearest stations, Sasalu and Amruthapura, and M/s Mineral Enterprises server by Chikkajajur (MMEC) railway siding located 16 kms, 17 kms and 4 kms respectively, from the A. Narrain mine. The nearest port at Mangalore is approximately 430 kms from the mine and the nearest airport is located at Bangalore, approximately 230 kms from the mine.

The leasehold area of the mine is 160.6 hectares, which is classified into two blocks, namely the south block, which is 123.5 hectares, and the north block, which is 37.1 hectares. These two blocks are joined by a narrow stretch of land approximately 30 meters in width and 660 meters in length along the eastern side of the leasehold area. We have operated the mine since 1994. The MoEF granted us the environmental clearance for production of 6.0 mmtpa in fiscal year 2009 but due to conditions introduced by the Supreme Court, the production capacity of the mine was reduced to 2.29 mmtpa. However in April 2018, district cap was induced on pro rata basis by Supreme Court and Central Empowered Committee enhanced the production capacity of the mine to 4.51mmtpa.

The geological formation of this region belongs to the Archean-Proterozoic age. The geology of the A. Narrain mine consists of Archean formations locally termed “Dharwars” which contain rich and large iron ore deposits. The leasehold area forms part of the Chitradurga-Tumkur schist belt and part of a regional isoclinal fold. The strike direction of the ore body dips westerly at an angle of about 60 degrees to 70 degrees. Hematite is the principal ore mineral and limonite, goethite and magnetite constitute the associated minor minerals of the mine. The mineralized horizon extends over a length of about two km. The footwall comprised decomposed quartzite and phyllite, and the stratigraphy is cross cut by late dolerite dykes and sills which are manifested by pink clayey zones in the mine area.

Currently, the north and the south block of the A. Narrain mine have mechanized mining operations. The open-pit mines have a bench height of seven meters, haulage roads of 12 meters to 15 meters in width and an overall pit slope of less than 26 degrees. The A. Narrain mine is equipped with dry process facilities for processing all grades of ore.

The lateritic overburden is removed either by blasting or ripping/dozing, loaded onto and transported by 30 ton trucks. The ore mined is processed at the mine’s processing facilities, which involves crushing and dry screening processes. The processed ore is then transported by road to the railway yard, for onward transport to customers in Karnataka, Goa and other places. Ore produced in Karnataka ranges from 56.0% to 62.0% iron content and comprises 82.0% fines and 18.0% lumps.

Since the mine was taken over by us, exploration at the A. Narrain mine involved the drilling of a total of 61,857 meters in 628 boreholes as of March 31, 2018. The A. Narrain deposit is extensively sampled in vertical and inclined drill hole grid intervals in side direction of 50 meters and in cross section average of 25 meters with most of the holes covering a depth of 50 meters to 200 meters. Power at the mine is supplied by a 725 KV and 320 KV generator. All power supplied to the mine and plant is through generators.

The gross value of fixed assets, including capital works-in-progress, was ₹ 12,312 million ($ 189 million) as of March 31, 2018.

On August 26, 2011, the Supreme Court of India passed an order suspending mining activities in the Chitradurga and Tumkur districts of Karnataka. In view of this order, our activities at this mine were stopped with immediate effect. On April 18, 2013, this suspension was lifted by the Court and in December 2013, the operations were resumed after getting necessary regulatory clearances. Although we resumed operations in Karnataka based on the stage I forest clearance from the state government of Karnataka and a temporary working permission from the MoEF, the temporary working permission expired on July 31, 2014. Karnataka operations were halted for the period from August 1, 2014 to February 27, 2015. We resumed our operations in Karnataka after all statutory clearances were in place from February 28, 2015. The economic cut-off grade at the A. Narrain mine is determined by the requirement to meet various sales contracts and the need to maintain stockpiles to meet the contract specifications.

The reserves in proved reserve category at the Karnataka mines are estimated based on drilled boreholes spaced at 50 meters along predefined section lines and occasionally off of the section lines, the probable reserves are estimated based on drilled boreholes spaced at 50 meters from the proved reserves and the possible reserves are estimated based on drilled boreholes spaced at 25 meters from the probable reserves. As the area is drilled at approximately 50 meter by 50 meter grids, the physical continuity of the ore is well demonstrated.

WCL

WCL comprises of three concession areas (Bomi Hills, Bea Mountain and Mano River). In consideration of the suspension of exploration in Liberia in fiscal year 2015 due to an ebola epidemic, low iron ore prices, geo-political factors and no plans for any substantive expenditure resulting in continued uncertainty in the project, an impairment charge of $ 228 million was recognized in fiscal year 2016.

The table below sets out proved and probable iron ore reserves as of March 31, 2018 at mines that we own or have rights to:

Proved Reserves

Probable Reserves

Total Proved and
Probable Reserves

Quantity

Iron
Grade

Quantity

Iron
Grade

Quantity

Iron
Grade

(Million

tons)

(%)

(Million

tons)

(%)

(Million

tons)

(%)

Karnataka - A. Narrain

33.1

57.0

12.8

46.4

45.9

54.1

Total iron ore reserves

33.1

57.0

12.8

46.4

45.9

54.1

Additional Information

For India

(a)

The reserve estimates have been prepared by the Geologists and Mining Engineers at Vedanta Limited and SRK reviewed in accordance with JORC code. The estimates were independently audited by SRK in 2018.

(b)

Ore reserves are estimated at a variable cut-off grade based on ore type; the minimum cut-off grade was 30% Fe for Siliceous Ore and 45% Fe for normal ore.

(c)

The ore bodies are of relatively significant size with good continuity of the mineralized zones and little internal dilution, the contacts are well constrained, free digging and diluting material can also carry grade, a mining recovery of 98%; a mining dilution of 2%; is considered.

During the year ended March 31, 2016, the Group recognized an impairment charge in respect of the exploratory assets in West Africa (Western Cluster, Liberia) on account of low iron ore prices, geo-political factors, and also due to the fact that there are no plans for any substantive expenditure given the continued uncertainty in the project. Therefore, the Company did not receive any certification of reserves and resources for the current period.

Amona plant

We commenced operations at the Amona plant in Goa in 1992 and have been engaged in the manufacture and sale of pig iron since then. Our metallurgical coke plant at Amona produces a range of coke fractions from over 70 mm for foundries, 20 mms to 60 mms for blast furnaces and 6 mms to 25 mms for the ferrous alloy industry. Approximately 80.0% to 90.0% of the total production of metallurgical coke is consumed by us for our pig iron production and the remainder is sold to customers primarily located in India. The cost of the input coal blend is the single most important cost component for the production of coke. Our production consists primarily of low ash coking coal and we import 100.0% of low ash coking coal each year. In order to ensure a stable raw material supply, we have long-term supply contracts for the procurement of such coal. Electric power for us is supplied by our power unit which generates power from the waste heat of our metallurgical coke plant and the blast furnace gas from us.

The following table sets out the total rated capacities as of March 31, 2018 at our Amona facility:

Rated capacity

Metallurgical Coke

Pig Iron

Power (mw)

(tpa)

Amona Plant

522,000

832,000

Production

The table below sets out our total production of saleable ore for fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018:


		Year Ended March 31
Mine/Mine Type	Product	2016		2017		2018
		(Millions Dry Metric tons)
Goa (open-pit)⁽¹⁾	Iron ore		2.0		7.8		3.8
Sesa Resources Limited (open-pit)⁽¹⁾	Iron ore		0.2		1.0		1.1
A. Narrain (open-pit)	Iron ore		3.0		2.1		2.2
Liberia⁽²⁾	Iron ore		0.0		0.0		0.0

Total iron Ore	Iron ore		5.2		10.9		7.1
Amona Plant	Metallurgical coke		0.48		0.48		0.44
	Pig iron		0.66		0.71		0.64

Note:

(1)

On April 21, 2014, the Supreme Court of India lifted the suspension with certain exceptions. We have worked with the state government and obtained the necessary clearances and have resumed our operations in fiscal year 2016. The Supreme Court passed its final order in the matter on February 7, 2018 wherein it set aside the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the State of Goa. The Supreme Court directed all lease holders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act.

(2)	Our iron ore mines in Liberia are in the exploration stage and therefore there has been no production from these mines in the last three fiscal years.

Principal Raw Materials

Iron ore operations

There are no direct raw materials used in our iron ore mining and processing operations. Indirect raw materials include power, fuel and lubricants. We procure these indirect materials from various vendors. The electricity required for our operations is supplied by the government grid and supplemented by our owned and hired diesel generator sets. The prices of fuel and necessary lubricants are volatile and the price of power is dependent on tariffs imposed by state governments.

Pig iron operations

The principal raw materials for the manufacture of pig iron are iron ore, metallurgical coke, limestone and dolomite.Iron ore is largely sourced from mines in Karnataka and Goa. The iron ore is transported from Karnataka by truck and railway rakes and from Goa by truck barges. Iron ore requirements are met through supplies from our own mines, and through purchases from other mines in Karnataka and Goa. Our metallurgical coke requirements are met by supplies from our metallurgical coke division. Limestone and dolomite are purchased from mines in Karnataka and transported to us by trucks.

Metallurgical coke

The principal raw materials for the manufacture of metallurgical coke are hard and semi-hard coking coals. These raw materials are imported from various international suppliers primarily from Australia.

Power

Electricity for our metallurgical coke and pig iron manufacturing operations is supplied by captive power plant, which generates power from the waste gases of our metallurgical coke plant and the blast furnace.

Distribution, Logistics and Transport

Our mining operations are advantageously located in Goa and are complemented by an efficient transportation network. In order to achieve higher volume and loading capacities and vessels with higher drafts, we and Sesa Resources Limited own and operate transfer vessels, which are used for mid-stream loading at Goa. We ship our products from ports on the west coast of India and so, the annual monsoon season in Goa impacts our distribution operations from June to September. We maintain a network of rail cars, barges and transhippers that are primarily used to facilitate the export of our ore to foreign customers. Our fleet includes 33 barges with capacities between 1,600 to 2,500 tons per barge. We also have one transhipper and a floating crane station with a combined rated capacity of up to 54,000 ton per day.

Sales from our Karnataka mines to Indian domestic customers take place on an ex-mine basis, and the transportation is handled by the customer.

Sales and Marketing

At present, China is our major buyer in the export market, and high iron ore inventories at Chinese major ports are being looked at as a catalyst that will change the course for fiscal year 2019 and the year next for iron ore prices.

Pig iron. Currently, the majority of the pig iron produced by us is sold within India to foundries and steel mills. The sale of pig iron is generally done on a spot basis with prices valid for a month. The prices of pig iron are fixed on a delivered basis, with material being sent on a freight-to-pay and prepaid basis.

Metallurgical coke. Approximately 80.0% to 90.0% of our total metallurgical coke production during fiscal year 2018 was used for the production of pig iron. The balance was sold in the domestic Indian market to foundries, pig iron producers, ferrous alloys producers and cement plants.

The sale of metallurgical coke to other customers is done on a spot basis with prices valid for a month. Contracts with some ferrous alloy producers are on a quarterly or bi-monthly basis, where the quantity, grade and price are fixed.

We have a marketing office at Panaji in Goa with indenting agents to sell our pig iron and metallurgical coke products. Our sales and chartering needs are managed from the office at Goa.

Our ten largest customers accounted for approximately 28.5%, 39.7% and 43.6% of revenue for iron ore business in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively. No customer accounted for greater than 10.0% of our revenue in fiscal year 2016 and 2017. One of the customer accounted for more than 10% of our revenue in fiscal year 2018.

Market Share and Competition

The primary export market for Goa iron ore is China. The total sales of iron ore for fiscal year 2018 was 7.6 million dmt. Domestic sales of iron ore for fiscal year 2018 was 4.0 million dmt, and total exports for fiscal year 2018 was 3.6 million dmt. Out of the total sales in fiscal year 2018, 28.4% was from Karnataka mines and the remaining 71.6% was from Goa. The limit set by the environmental clearances is 20 MT for Goa and 30 MT for Karnataka.

Our primary competitors in both the public and private sectors in India include National Mineral Development Corporation, Metals and Minerals Trading Corporation of India Limited, Rungta Mines Limited, Mineral Sales Private Limited and Essel Mining and Industries Limited. In addition, our international competitors include Fortescue Metal Group, Sierra Leone, Vale, BHP Billiton Limited, and Rio Tinto.

Total sales including sales of confiscated ore purchased through e-auction, was 10.1 million dmt in fiscal year 2017 and 7.6 million dmt in fiscal year 2018.

Seasonality

Our iron ore mining operations are affected by changes in weather conditions, particularly heavy rains. Goa, where the majority of our iron ore mining operations are located, experiences monsoon seasons, which usually occurs from early June to early October. During the monsoon season, restricted barge movements result in significantly lower exports through the Mormugao port in Goa, where our iron ore is shipped to customers. We attempt to mitigate the effects of the monsoon season by concentrating on mine development and extracting larger quantities of overburden waste during the monsoon season in order to permit speedier extraction of iron ore during the dry season. In addition, during the monsoon season, we typically conduct annual maintenance at our processing plants and our other mining machinery.

Our Copper Business

Overview

Our copper business is principally one of custom smelting and includes a smelter, a refinery, a phosphoric acid plant, a sulphuric acid plant, a copper rod plant and three captive power plants at Tuticorin in southern India, a refinery and two copper rod plants at Silvassa in western India, a precious metal refinery, a doré anode plant and a copper rod plant, at Fujairah in the UAE. In addition, we own the Mt. Lyell copper mine in Tasmania, Australia.

As a custom smelter, we buy copper concentrate at LME-linked prices for copper less a TcRc that is negotiated with suppliers. We sell refined copper at LME-linked prices in the domestic and export markets. We receive a discount from our suppliers, in the form of a TcRc, which is influenced by global copper concentrate demand, supply of copper anode and copper cathode, LME trends and other factors. We source our copper concentrate from various global suppliers.

In recent years, we have improved the operating performance of our copper business by improving operational efficiencies and reducing unit costs, including reducing power costs by setting up a captive power plant at Tuticorin.

The Government of Tamil Nadu has issued orders dated May 28, 2018 directing the closure of the copper smelter plant unit in Tuticorin permanently. The Company has filed an appeal before National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench challenging this order. Separately, SIPCOT vide its letter dated May 29, 2018, cancelled 342.22 acres of the land allotted to us for the proposed Expansion Project. Further the TNPCB issued orders on June 7, 2018 directing the withdrawal of the Consent to Establish, which was valid till December 31, 2022.

Principal Products

Copper Cathode

Our copper cathodes are square shaped with purity levels of 99.9% copper. These cathodes meet international quality standards and are registered as LME “A” grade. The major uses of copper cathodes are in the manufacture of copper rods for the wire and cable industry and copper tubes for consumer durable goods. Copper cathodes are also used for making alloys like brass, bronze and alloy steel, with applications in transportation, electrical appliances and machines, defense and construction.

Copper Rods

Our copper continuous cast rods meet all the requirements of international quality standards. Our copper rods are currently used primarily for power and communication cables, transformers and magnet wires.

Sulphuric Acid

We produce sulphuric acid at our sulphuric acid plant through conversion of sulphur dioxide gas that is generated from the copper smelter. A significant amount of the sulphuric acid produced at the Tuticorin smelter is consumed by our phosphoric acid plant in the production of phosphoric acid, and the remainder is sold to fertilizer manufacturers and other industries.

Phosphoric Acid

We produce phosphoric acid at our phosphoric acid plant by chemical reaction of sulphuric acid and rock phosphate, which we import. Phosphoric acid is sold to fertilizer manufacturers and other industries.

Anode Slime

We produce anode slimes from the copper refining process that contain gold and silver which we currently sell primarily to Fujairah and balance to third parties. We sell the anode slimes to Fujairah Gold FZC as the doré anode plant has been shifted to our precious metal refinery at Fujairah.

Other By-products

Gypsum and slag are by-products of our copper smelting operations which we sell to third parties.

Supply of Copper Concentrate

As a custom smelter, we source a significant majority of our copper concentrate from third party suppliers at the LME price less a TcRc. During fiscal year 2018, no copper concentrate was sourced from our own mine in Tasmania, Australia. All of the copper concentrate used in our operations, whether from our own mine or from third party suppliers, is imported through the port of Tuticorin and transported by road to our smelter at Tuticorin.

Delivery to Customers

The copper cathodes, copper rods, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid and other by-products such as gypsum are shipped for export or transported by road to customers in India.

Principal Facilities

Our Copper Mine

The following map shows the location of the Mt. Lyell mine in Tasmania:

LOGO

Overview

The Mt. Lyell mine is located at Queenstown, Australia. It comprises of an underground copper mine and a copper processing facility and is owned and operated by CMT. The Mt. Lyell mine is owned and operated under the terms and conditions as stipulated in mining leases 9M/2013 (previously 1M95) and 10M/2013 (previously 5M95) granted by the state government of Tasmania. Mining lease 9M/2013 was granted on January 1, 1995 for a period of 15 years and the mining lease 10M/2013 was granted on February 1, 1995 for a period of 14 years and 11 months. Both leases have been renewed for a period of 18 years and are valid up to December 30, 2027. The mine is also covered by the Copper Mines of Tasmania (Agreement) Act 1999, which, in conjunction with an agreement between the state government of Tasmania and CMT entered into pursuant to that Act, limits CMT’s environmental liabilities to the impact of current operations, thereby insulating CMT from any historical legacy claims. The operation of Mt Lyell mine was suspended in January 2014, following a mudslide incident.

Monte Cello acquired CMT in 1999 from Mt. Lyell Mining Company Limited when Mt. Lyell Mining Company Limited entered into voluntary administration due to hedging difficulties. We acquired Monte Cello, and CMT, from Twin Star’s subsidiary in 2000.

The principal deposits in the Mt. Lyell region are all of the volcanic disseminated pyrite-chalcopyrite type, which accounts for 86.0% of the known ore in the region. The geology of the Mt. Lyell mine consists of a series of intercalated felsic to mafic-intermediate volcanics. Lithologies are highly altered quartz-sericite-chlorite volcanics with individual units delineated largely by the relative abundance of phyllosilicates. Volcaniclastic and rhyolitic lithologies occur sporadically throughout the sequence, as does pervasive iron mineralization in the form of haematite, magnetite and siderite.

Chalcopyrite is the principal ore mineral and occurs chiefly in higher grade lenses enveloped by lower grade halos. The overall structure of Mt. Lyell is that of a steeply dipping overturned limb of a large anticline. The hanging wall (stratigraphic footwall) of the ore body consists of weakly mineralized chloritic schists with disseminated pyrite. The footwall is sharply defined by the Great Lyell Fault—Owen Conglomerate contact which truncates the ore body at its southern end.

The Mt. Lyell mine is under care and maintenance following a rock falling on the ventilation shaft in June 2014. The western tharsis deposit lies to the west of the Prince Lyell ore body. Additional targets include Tasman and Crown, Glen Lyell, Copper Clays and NW Geophysics. The tailings dam is a valley-fill type and excess water is discharged via a spillway. The water quality is sampled before the water is released from the site. The tailings dam was raised as CMT’s accepted closure plan is to flood the tailings.

The processing plant is approximately 30 years old and has been partially refurbished following CMT’s acquisition with the addition of crushers, a float cell and a regrind mill at the surface. The condition of the process plant is ageing but is well maintained to ensure it remains in safe and efficient condition.

Power at the mine is supplied through an electricity supply agreement with Aurora Energy Proprietary Limited and Hydro Tasmania Proprietary Limited.

The net value of fixed assets, including capital work-in-progress was approximately AUD 4.5 million ($ 6 million) respectively, as of March 31, 2018.

At the time of finalization of reserve statement as on March 31, 2018, no mineral reserves have been determined due to government statutory restrictions imposed post the mud slide incident in January 2014.

Our Smelter and Refineries

Overview

The following table sets forth the total capacities as of March 31, 2018 at our Tuticorin and Silvassa facilities:

Capacity

Facility

Copper
Anode⁽¹⁾

Copper
Cathode⁽²⁾

Copper
Rods⁽²⁾

Sulphuric
Acid⁽³⁾

Phosphoric
Acid⁽³⁾

Captive
Power

(tpa)

(MW)

Tuticorin⁽⁴⁾

400,000

246,000

96,000

1,300,000

230,000

191.5

Silvassa

—

216,000

172,000

—

Total

400,000

462,000

268,000

1,300,000

230,000

191.5

Notes:

(1)	Copper anode is an intermediate product produced by copper smelters and is not sold to customers. It is used for the production of copper cathode by copper refineries. Approximately one ton of copper anode is required for the production of one ton of copper cathode.

(2)	Copper cathode is used as a starting material for copper rods. Approximately one ton of copper cathode is required for the production of one ton of copper rods.

(3)	Sulphuric acid is used as a starting material for phosphoric acid. Approximately 2.8 tons of sulphuric acid are required for the production of one ton of phosphoric acid.

(4)	Currently the operations are suspended as detailed below.

Tuticorin

Our Tuticorin facility, established in 1997, is located in Tamil Nadu in southern India. Our Tuticorin facility currently consists of a 400,000 tpa copper smelter, a 246,000 tpa copper refinery, a 96,000 tpa copper rod plant, a 1,300,000 tpa sulphuric acid plant, a 230,000 tpa phosphoric acid plant and three captive power plants with capacities of 7.5 MW, 24.0 MW and 160.0 MW. The coal based power plant of 160 MW is primarily used for captive consumption.

Presently, the captive power plants have a total capacity of 191.5 MW, excluding the 15 MW power generating power plant shifted to HZL for the Pantnagar operations. Further, we also have a 5 MW of power generated from a smelter waste heat boiler. Coal for the 160 MW power plant is imported, and our other captive power plants at Tuticorin operate on furnace oil.

The smelter at the Tuticorin facility utilizes IsaSmelt^TMfurnace technology. The refinery uses IsaProcess^TMtechnology to produce copper cathode and the copper rod plant uses Properzi Continuously Cast and Rolled, copper rod technology from Continuus-Properzi S.p.A., Italy, to produce copper rods.

In March 2013, the TNPCB ordered the closure of the copper smelter at Tuticorin due to complaints regarding a noxious gas leak by local residents. On April 1, 2013 we filed a petition in the National Green Tribunal challenging the order of the TNPCB on the basis that the plant’s emissions were within permissible limits. The National Green Tribunal passed an interim order in May 2013 allowing the copper smelter to recommence operations subject to certain conditions. We recommenced operations on June 16, 2013. The expert committee constituted by the National Green Tribunal submitted a report on the operation of the plant on July 10, 2013 stating that the plant’s emissions were within the prescribed standards and based on this report, the National Green Tribunal ruled on July 15, 2013 that the copper smelter could remain open and reserved its final order. The National Green Tribunal has also directed the company to comply with the recommendations made by the committee to further improve the working of the plant within a time bound schedule. However, the TNPCB filed a civil appeal before the Supreme Court of India against the interim order of the National Green Tribunal. On August 8, 2013, the National Green Tribunal upheld its interim order of May 31, 2013, and allowed our smelter to continue operation subject to implementing all the recommendations and suggestions given by the National Green Tribunal. We have implemented all the recommendations during fiscal year 2013. However, the TNPCB filed a notice of appeal against the orders of the National Green Tribunal.

TNPCB through its order dated May 23, 2018 ordered the disconnection of electricity supply and closure of the existing copper Smelter plant with immediate effect. TNPCB passed the said closure order without any prior notice. Thereafter, the Government of Tamil Nadu, proclaiming and endorsing TNPCB’s Rejection Order, issued orders dated May 28, 2018 with a direction to seal the existing Copper Smelter plant unit permanently, without providing any prior notice. The Company has filed an appeal before National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench challenging the closure order passed by TNPCB and the subject government order for sealing of the existing plant. See “Item 8. Financial Information - A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information – Legal Proceedings - Writ petitions filed against us alleging violation of certain air, water and hazardous waste management regulations at our Tuticorin plant” for additional information.

Silvassa

Our Silvassa facility, established in 1997, is located in the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli in western India. Our Silvassa facility currently consists of a 216,000 tpa copper refinery and two copper rod plants with a total installed capacity of 172,000 tpa of copper rods. Its refinery uses IsaProcess^TM technology in the production of copper cathode and its copper rod plants use Properzi copper cathode rods technology. Our Silvassa facility draws on the state power grid to satisfy its power requirements. A new copper rod mill plant with installed capacity of 258,000 tpa is under construction in Silvassa which is expected to be completed by the end of December 2018.

Fujairah

Fujairah Gold FZC is located in the Fujairah Free Zone 2. Our Fujairah facility is strategically located on the coast of the Arabian Sea. The precious metal refinery was commissioned in March 2009 and began production in April 2009, with a capacity of 20 tons of gold and 105 tons of silver. Outotec oyj, Finland, supplied the technology for the precious metal refinery. Fujairah Gold FZC commissioned a copper rod plant at a project cost of $ 13 million, with an annual capacity of 12.5 tons per hour with production having commenced in May 2010 and generated a production of 88,091 metric tons of rod, 7,687 kilograms of gold and 72,513 kilograms of silver in fiscal year 2018. Continuus Properzi S.p.A., Italy, has supplied the rod mill equipment for this project, and the copper cathode required for the copper rod plant is being sourced from the smelters of the Vedanta Group and third parties. The doré anode plant that was shifted from Tuticorin to Fujairah was commissioned in June 2012 for smelting of “anode slime” to “doré anode” which is the raw material for the precious metal refinery.

Production Volumes

The following table sets out our total production from Tuticorin and Silvassa for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:

For the Year Ended March 31,

Facility

Product

Units

2016

2017

2018

Tuticorin⁽⁴⁾

Copper anode⁽¹⁾

tons

387,016

400,620

328,076

Sulphuric acid⁽²⁾

tons

1,070,786

1,043,802

1,033,249

Phosphoric acid⁽²⁾

tons

198,779

200,119

191,746

Copper cathode⁽³⁾

tons

201,864

216,119

216,749

Copper rods⁽³⁾

tons

68,685

71,178

67,207

Silvassa

Copper cathode⁽³⁾

tons

182,183

186,611

186,418

Copper rods⁽³⁾

tons

142,115

136,352

135,332

Total

Copper anode

tons

387,016

400,620

328,076

Copper cathode

tons

384,047

402,730

403,167

Copper rods

tons

210,799

207,530

202,539

Sulphuric acid

tons

1,070,786

1,043,802

1,033,249

Phosphoric acid

tons

198,779

200,119

191,746

Fujairah

Rod

metric ton

86,654

83,278

88,091

Gold

8,622

6,373

7,687

Silver

82,418

77,514

72,513

Notes:

(1)	Copper anode is an intermediate product produced by copper smelters and is not sold to customers. It is used for the production of copper cathode by copper refineries. Approximately one ton of copper anode is required for the production of one ton of copper cathode.

(2)	Sulphuric acid is used as a starting material for phosphoric acid. Approximately 2.8 tons of sulphuric acid are required for the production of one ton of phosphoric acid.

(3)	Copper cathode is used as a starting material for copper rods. Approximately one ton of copper cathode is required for the production of one ton of copper rods.

(4)	Currently the operations are suspended as detailed above.

Since Mt. Lyell mine has been placed under care and maintenance following a rock falling on the ventilation shaft in June 2014, there was no copper extraction from these mines for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Principal Raw Materials

Overview

The principal inputs of our copper business are copper concentrate, rock phosphate, power, fuel and sulphuric acid. Other inputs include coke, lime, reagents and oxide ore. We have in the past been able to secure an adequate supply of the principal inputs for our copper production.

Copper Concentrate

Copper concentrate is the principal raw material of our copper smelter. In fiscal year 2018, we sourced 99.02% of our copper concentrate requirements from third party suppliers, either through long-term contracts or on spot markets. The remainder of our copper concentrate requirements was fulfilled from Konkola Copper Mines. We purchase copper concentrate at the LME price less a TcRc that we negotiate with our suppliers but which is influenced by the prevailing market rate for the TcRc. We expect the quantity we purchase from third party suppliers to also increase in future periods to the extent we seek to increase our copper smelting and refining capacity.

In general, our long-term agreements run for a period of three to five years, and are renewable at the end of the period. The quantity of supply for each contract year is fixed at the beginning of the year and terms like TcRc and freight differential are negotiated each year depending upon market conditions. In fiscal year 2018, we sourced approximately 78.3% of our copper concentrate requirements through long-term agreements.

We also purchase copper concentrate on a spot basis to fill any gaps in our requirements based on production needs for quantity and quality. These deals are struck on the best possible TcRc during the period and are specific for short-term supply. In fiscal year 2018, we sourced approximately 21.7% of our copper concentrate requirements through spot purchases.

Rock Phosphate

In fiscal year 2018, the majority of rock phosphate was sourced from Jordan at spot prices.

Power

The electricity requirements of our copper smelter and refinery at Tuticorin are primarily met by the on-site captive power plants. This plant uses coal that is imported from third parties. Our other captive power plants at Tuticorin operate on furnace oil that is procured through long-term contracts with various oil companies. We have outsourced the day-to-day operations and maintenance of our captive power plants at Tuticorin. Our Silvassa facility relies on the state power grid for its power requirements.

Distribution, Logistics and Transport

Copper concentrate sourced from third parties is received at the port of Tuticorin and then transported by road to the Tuticorin facility.

Once processed at the Tuticorin facility, copper anodes are either refined at Tuticorin or transported by road to Silvassa. Copper cathodes, copper rods, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid and other by-products are shipped for export or transported by road to customers in India.

Sales and Marketing

The 10 largest customers of our copper business accounted for approximately 30.6%, 47.8% and 56.8% of our copper business revenue in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively. None of our customers accounted for greater than 10.0% of copper business revenue in fiscal years 2016 and 2017. One of our customers accounted for greater than 10.0% of copper business revenue in fiscal year 2018.

Our copper sales and marketing head office is located in Mumbai, and we have field sales and marketing offices in most major metropolitan centers in India. We sell our copper rods and cathodes in both the domestic and export markets. In fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, exports accounted for approximately 38.0%, 55.5% and 52.3% of the revenue of our copper business, respectively. Our export sales were primarily to China, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Europe, Turkey, UAE, Mexico and Taiwan. We also sell phosphoric acid and other by-products in both the domestic and export markets.

Domestic sales are normally conducted on the basis of a fixed price for a given month that we determine from time to time on the basis of average LME price for the month, as well as domestic supply and demand conditions. The price for copper we sell in India is normally higher than the price we charge in the export markets due to the tariff structure on costs, smaller order sizes that domestic customers place and the packaging, storing and truck loading expenses that we incur when supplying domestic customers.

Our export sales of copper are made on the basis of both long-term sales agreements and spot sales. The sales prices of our copper exports include the LME price plus a producer’s premium. We do not enter into fixed price long-term copper sales agreements with our customers.

Market Share and Competition

We own one of the two custom copper smelters in India and had a 33% primary market share by sales volume in India in fiscal year 2018, according to International Copper Association (India). The other major custom copper smelter in India is owned by Hindalco Industries Limited, with the remainder of the primary copper market in India primarily served by imports and Hindustan Copper Limited.

Copper is a commodity product and we compete primarily on the basis of price and service, with price being the most important consideration when supplies of copper are abundant. Our metal products also compete with other materials, including aluminium and plastics that can be used in similar applications by end-users. Copper is sold directly to consumers or on terminal markets such as the LME. Prices are established based on the LME price, though as a regional producer we are able to charge a premium to the LME price which reflects the cost of obtaining the metal from an alternative source.

Projects and Developments

We have ongoing expansion projects to setup a copper smelter plant at Tuticorin to increase its total copper capacity to 800,000 tpa, which costs ₹ 44,240 million ($ 679 million). However, the expansion of the smelter was temporarily put on hold due to pending environmental clearances. We received environmental clearance from MoEF in May 2015 and consent to establishment from TNPCB for the copper smelter in November 2016. On the basis of clearances and consents received, we are in the process of restarting the project activities for the copper smelter plant.

In December 2017, we restarted the construction activities of the proposed expansion project and the same were in progress. In the meantime, the Madurai Bench of the High Court of Madras in a Public Interest Litigation filed against the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) and us, held vide its order dated May 23, 2018 that the application for renewal of the Environmental Clearance for the Expansion Project shall be processed after a mandatory public hearing and the said application shall be decided by the competent authority on or before September 23, 2018. In the interim, the High Court ordered us to cease construction and all other activities on site for the proposed Expansion Project with immediate effect. Separately, SIPCOT vide its letter dated May 29, 2018, cancelled 342.22 acres of the land allotted to us for the proposed Expansion Project. Further the TNPCB issued orders on June 7, 2018 directing the withdrawal of the Consent to Establish, which was valid till December 31, 2022. We would be taking appropriate legal measures to address the matters.

We incurred ₹ 9,932 million ($ 153 million) on these projects as of March 31, 2018. We funded these projects primarily from the proceeds of the convertible senior notes issued in fiscal year 2010.

Our Aluminium Business

Our aluminium business is in Chhattisgarh and Odisha. We operate the business in the state of Chhattisgarh through BALCO, in which we have a 51.0% ownership interest, whereas our aluminium operations in Odisha were previously operated through Vedanta Aluminium, which was merged into Vedanta Limited pursuant to the Re-organization Transactions.

(a)

BALCO

Overview

Our aluminium business is owned and operated by BALCO. BALCO’s partially integrated aluminium operations are comprised of two bauxite mines, the Chotia coal block, 1410 MW power plants, an alumina refinery, the operations of which have been suspended since September 2009, a 245,000 tpa aluminium smelter and a 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter and a fabrication facility, all of which are located in Korba in the State of Chhattisgarh in central India. BALCO’s operations benefit from relatively cost effective access to power, the most significant cost component in aluminium smelting due to the power intensive nature of the process. This is, to a considerable extent, as a result of BALCO being an energy-integrated aluminium producer.

BALCO’s Bodai-Daldali bauxite mines provide a majority of the bauxite required for BALCO’s smelters. The bauxite is transferred to our alumina refinery in Lanjigarh, which converts bauxite to alumina and supplies the alumina back to BALCO, for payment of a conversion price by BALCO to us, which is based on our actual cost of production plus a reasonable margin. The remainder of BALCO’s alumina requirements is sourced from third parties.

BALCO’s other bauxite mine is the Mainpat bauxite mine, which is an open-pit bauxite mine located in the Surguja district of the state of Chhattisgarh. The Mainpat mine has been in production since 1993. The mining lease of Mainpat mine has been renewed and is valid until July 8, 2042.

We own a 51.0% ownership interest in BALCO and have management control of the company. On March 19, 2004, we exercised an option to acquire the remaining ownership interest in BALCO, which is owned by the GoI. The exercise of this option has been contested by the GoI. See “- Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO” for more information.

Principal Products

Primary Aluminium

Primary aluminium is produced from the smelting of metallurgical grade alumina. BALCO produces primary aluminium in the form of ingots and wire rods for sale. Ingots are used extensively for aluminium castings and fabrication in the construction and transportation industries. Wire rods are used in various electrical applications, especially in the form of electrical conductors and cables.

Rolled Products

Rolled products, namely coils and sheets, are value-added products that BALCO produces from primary aluminium. Rolled products are used for a variety of purposes in different industries, including aluminium foil manufacturing, printing, transportation, consumer durables, building and architecture, electrical and communications, packaging and general engineering industries.

Delivery to Customers

Ingots, wire rods and rolled products are transported by trucks to customers in India and to ports for export.

Principal Facilities

Overview

The following map shows details of the locations of BALCO’s facilities in the State of Chhattisgarh:

LOGO

Bauxite Mines

Chhattisgarh Mines – Mainpat and Bodai-Daldali

BALCO has two captive bauxite mines, namely the Mainpat bauxite mine and the Bodai-Daldali bauxite mine, in the state of Chhattisgarh in central India. The Mainpat mine is an open-pit bauxite mine located in the Surguja district of Chhattisgarh. The Mainpat mine has been in production since 1993 and has a leased hold area of 6.39 square kilometers. The bauxite extraction limit for the mine granted by MoEF is 750,000 tpa. The mining lease of Mainpat mine has been renewed until July 8, 2042, and environmental clearances for the Mainpat mine has been renewed by the MoEF and is valid until September 16, 2038. BALCO had applied for a renewal of forest clearances for the forest land co-terminus with the mining lease period, which is valid until July 8, 2042.

The Bodai-Daldali deposits are located approximately 260 kilometers from Korba in the Kawardha district of the state of Chhattisgarh. Bodai-Daldali was commissioned in 2004 by BALCO with a lease hold area of 6.3 square kilometers renewable mining lease that is valid until March 26, 2047. The bauxite extraction limit for Bodai-Daldali Mines granted by MoEF is 1,250,000 tpa.

The Chhattisgarh bauxite deposits are situated over a plateau with steep scarps on both sides, at an elevation of approximately 1,040 meters above the mean sea level for Mainpat, and approximately 940 meters above the mean sea level for Bodai-Daldali. The bauxite is generally one meter to three meters thick and lies within a laterite sequence overlying thick tertiary basalts of the Deccan traps. The cover of laterite and thin topsoil is up to 5 meters thick, but is generally less than 2 meters. The bauxite outcrops around much of the plateau rims.

A typical profile of the Chhattisgarh deposits comprises topsoil and soft overburden above the laterite. The upper laterite consists of hard, loose or indurated bauxite pebbles and boulders with a clear contact with the underlying hard bauxites. The bauxite occurs in discontinuous lenses up to four meters in thickness with laterite infilling joints and fractures with the bauxite. The contact with the softer lower laterite is usually gradational and irregular.

The bauxite ranges from hard to very hard with a natural moisture content of 5.0% to 10.0%, an in-situ density of 2.3 tons to 2.4 tons per cubic meter. It comprises primarily gibbsite with bohemite and minor diaspore. The reactive silica content is low and iron is present in the form of hematite and aluminous goethite. The average grade of the bauxite is approximately 43.1% aluminium oxide and silica levels of 4.8% as of March 31, 2018.

All mining and transportation at both mines are undertaken by contractors. One thin top soil layer is removed by an excavator and is either transported to an adjacent storage point or an area that is being backfilled. The laterite layer is drilled and blasted. The overburden is then removed by backhoe, excavators and 15-ton dumpers. Broken ore is hand-sorted, leaving waste material behind. Ore productivity is around 2 to 3 tons per person per day in the dry season which decreases to 1.25 to 1.75 tons per person per day in the wet season.

The exploration drilling program has been completed and the entire area is covered based on a 50-meter square pattern and is reduced to a 25-meter centers for detailed mine planning. Sampling is normally in 0.4 meter lengths and core is currently split and retained for future reference. Bauxite samples are tested for silica and aluminium oxide at laboratories situated on site and at the Korba plant. Selected sample are re-assayed as part of a quality control program.

Since the commencement of operations, the Mainpat mine has produced approximately 8.1 million tons of bauxite. During fiscal year 2018 there was production totaling approximately 589,320 tons at 43.5% aluminium oxide. Power and water requirements at Mainpat are minimal and can be supplied by small on-site diesel generators and from boreholes in the mine.

As of March 31, 2018, BALCO estimates reserves at Mainpat to be 5.2 million tons and the remaining mine life of the Mainpat mine to be approximately 6 to 7 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan.

Total production at the Bodai-Daldali mine since the commencement of production has been 7.6 million tons of bauxite, with production in fiscal year 2018 totaling approximately 581,920 tons at 45.5% aluminium oxide. Power is supplied by on-site diesel generators and ground water provides the water requirements for the mine.

As of March 31, 2018, BALCO estimates the reserves at Bodai-Daldali to be 2.8 million tons and the remaining mine life to be approximately 2 to 3 years based on (i) reserves; and (ii) planned production which is determined on the basis of a life-of-mine plan. The cut-off grade used to define the reserves at BALCO’s mines was 38.0%.

In fiscal year 2018, all mining and transportation of the bauxite was done by contractors and the total cost for this was ₹ 2,713 ($ 42) per ton of bauxite.

Based on current costs and historical prices, BALCO’s operations are forecasted to remain profitable and therefore the deposits at the Mainpat and Bodai-Daldali mines fulfill the requirements for being classified as reserves. The reserves as of March 31, 2018 at BALCO’s mines at Mainpat and Bodai-Daldali have been determined by verifying that the integrated operation is economic at an aluminium price of $ 1,775 per ton.

100

The mining recovery factors applied to determine the reserves for both mines are 65.0%. The grade dilution factor is reconciliation between the actual mined / dispatched grades obtained and in-situ grade values. The grade correction / dilution factors applied for Mainpat and Bodai-Daldali mines are Al2O3 – 97%, SiO2 – 103% and Al2O3 – 97%, SiO2 – 103% respectively. The parameters for Mainpat are derived from the reconciliation of actual production against the geological model, while the parameters for Bodai-Daldali are based on estimates.

In fiscal year 2018, the stripping ratio at the Mainpat mine was 1:1.45, while the stripping ratio at the Bodai-Daldali mine was 1:1.14. The stripping ratio for the remaining reserves at Mainpat is 2.15 tons of waste per ton of ore, while at the Bodai-Daldali mine, it is 2.16 tons of waste per ton of ore. Stripping ratio is the ratio of the volume of waste material required to be handled in order to extract some volume of ore.

Summary of Bauxite Mine Reserves

The following table sets out BALCO’s proven and probable bauxite reserves as of March 31, 2018:


Mines	Proven Reserves						Probable Reserves						Total Proven and Probable Reserves						SSL Interest		Reserve Life
	Quantity		Alumina		Silica		Quantity		Alumina		Silica		Quantity		Alumina		Silica		%		(years)
	(in million tons)		(%)		(%)		(in million tons)		(%)		(%)		(in million tons)		(%)		(%)
Mainpat		5.22		43.24		4.26		—		—		—		5.22		43.24		4.26		—		6-7
Bodai-Daldali		2.84		42.83		5.67		—		—		—		2.84		42.83		5.67		—		2-3


Total		8.06		43.10		4.76		—		—		—		8.06		43.10		4.76		51		—

Additional information:

(1)	The estimate of reserves, was audited by Geo Solutions Private Limited, which incorporate the losses for mine dilution and mining recovery as required by the JORC code.

(2)	The cut-off grade used with our reserve estimates for bauxite is 38.0%.

(3)	The metallurgical recovery factor for bauxite at both Mainpat and Bodai-Daldali is 65.0%.

(4)	The commodity price for evaluation of reserves is $ 1,775 per ton for bauxite and the currency conversion factor that was used to estimate our reserves was ₹ 65.64 per US dollar.

(5)	The reserve quantities disclosed are for the entire mine and our share in the reserve quantities is 51.0%.

Korba Facility

Overview

BALCO’s Korba facility is located at Korba in the state of Chhattisgarh and consists of a 245,000 tpa aluminium smelter and a 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter, 1410 MW power plants, and an alumina and fabrication facility. During fiscal year 2017, CPP 600 MW was commissioned and 270 MW power plant was transferred from power business to aluminum business on April 1, 2016. The following table sets forth the total capacities as of March 31, 2018 at BALCO’s Korba facility:

Capacity

Facility

Alumina

Aluminium

Power plant

(tpa)

(MW)

Korba

200,000

245,000

1,140

Korba (New smelter)

—

325,000⁽¹⁾

—

Notes:

(1)	For the 325,000 tpa smelter, 84 pots were operationalized during fiscal year 2015. An additional 84 pots were operationalized during fiscal year 2017 and the remaining 168 pots commenced commercial production from May 1, 2017.

Refinery

Commissioned in 1973, uses the conventional high pressure Bayer process and has a capacity of 200,000 tpa of alumina. The operations of the refinery have stopped since September 2009.

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Smelters

The smelter uses pre-baked GAMI technology and has a capacity of 245,000 tpa, was commissioned in November 2006. BALCO has set up a 325,000 tpa smelter at the Korba facility, of which 84 pots commenced commercial production in September 2014. An additional 84 pots were operationalized in August 2016 and the remaining 168 pots commenced commercial production on May 1, 2017.

Fabrication Facility

The fabrication facility at Korba has two parts, a cast house and a sheet rolling shop.

Cast House

The cast house uses continuous rod casters from Continuus-Properzi S.P.A and has a foundry which has twin-roll continuous casters with a SNIF degasser and hydraulically driven semi-continuous ingot casting machine to produce ingots and wire rods.

Sheet Rolling Shop

The sheet rolling shop has three parts: a hot rolling mill with a capacity of 75,000 tpa, an older cold rolling mill with a capacity of 30,000 tpa and a newer cold rolling mill commissioned in 2004 with a capacity of 36,000 tpa. Molten metal is cast into slabs and then either hot-rolled and sold as hot-rolled sheets or converted into cold-rolled sheets in the cold rolling mills. Alternatively, molten metal is directly used in strip casting and then fed to the cold rolling mills to convert it into cold-rolled sheets or coils.

Power Plants

Smelting requires a substantial continuous supply of power and interruptions can cause molten metal to solidify and damage or destroy the pots. Power for the Korba facility is mostly provided by the coal-based 540 MW captive power plant commissioned in March 2006. The surplus generation from the power plant is supplied to the State Electricity Board and other customers. 270 MW power plant was transferred from power business to aluminium business on April 1, 2016. BALCO constructed a CPP 600 MW coal-based thermal power facility in the state of Chhattisgarh. The power generated from CPP 600 MW units is being utilized in the 325,000 tpa smelter.

Thermal coal is a key raw material required for the operation of BALCO’s captive power plants. On October 7, 2016, BALCO entered into another fuel supply agreement of 325,000 tpa and on August 5, 2017, another fuel supply agreement of 0.91 mtpa for 1140 MW captive power plant (comprising CPP 540 MW and CPP 600 MW) for a term of five years. BALCO realized 71% and 82% of contracted coal quantity of IPP 600 MW and CPP 1140 MW each. Further, BALCO was successful in securing the Chotia coal block as part of an auction process conducted by the GoI.

Production Volumes

The following table sets out BALCO’s total production from its Korba facility for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:

For the Year Ended March 31,

Facility

Product

2016

2017⁽²⁾

2018

(tons)

Korba

Ingots/Busbar/Billets

93,442

202,769

318,585

Rods

217,650

205,277

223,983

Rolled products

20,526

19,033

26,483

Total⁽¹⁾

331,618

427,079

569,051

Notes:

(1)	Reflects total of ingots, rods and rolled products.

(2)	Includes production of 46,716 tons from the trial run of 325,000 tpa smelter.

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The following table sets out the total bauxite ore production for each of BALCO’s mines for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


			For the Year Ended March 31,
Mine (Type of Mine)	Product		2016		2017		2018
			(tons, except for percentages)
Mainpat (Open-pit)		Bauxite ore mined		455		73,170		589,320
		Ore grade		47.7%		43.6%		43.5%
Bodai-Daldali (Open-pit)		Bauxite ore mined		1,033,300		1,065,300		581,920
		Ore grade		46.9%		46.7%		45.5%


Total				1,033,755		1,138,470		1,171,240

Principal Raw Materials

The principal inputs of BALCO’s operations are alumina, power, carbon and certain other raw materials. BALCO has in the past been able to secure an adequate supply of the principal inputs for its business.

Alumina

Alumina is the primary raw material used in the production of aluminium. Our Lanjigarh refinery supplies substantial portion of the alumina requirements (after converting the bauxite supplied by BALCO to the Lanjigarh refinery). BALCO currently sources all of its remaining alumina from third-party suppliers in international markets. The alumina sourced externally is metallurgical grade calcined alumina with a minimum alumina content of 98.6% on a dry basis. In fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, BALCO purchased 299,375 tons, 447,883 tons and 766,457 tons of alumina at an average price of $ 323, $ 314 and $ 425 per ton, respectively, on a cost, insurance and freight or CIF basis at the port of Vizag, Kakinada and Gangavaram, India.

Power

Smelting primary aluminium requires a substantial, continuous supply of electricity. As a result, power is a key input at BALCO’s Korba facility, where it is provided by three coal-based captive power plants of 270 MW, 540 MW and CPP 600 MW. Our captive power plant has historically been dependent upon coal allocations from Coal India Limited. The company received another coal block known as the Chotia coal block through an e-auction. The total reserves at the Chotia block are 17.2 million tons with an annual production capacity of one million tons. BALCO’s total coal requirement at full capacity is approximately 10 million tons. Hence, the Chotia coal block can meet 10% of the total coal requirement.

Power for BALCO’s mines is provided by on-site diesel generators. BALCO has constructed a CPP 600 MW coal-based thermal power facility which was commissioned during fiscal year 2016. The power generated from CPP 600 MW is utilized in the 325,000 tpa smelter.

Water

Water is also an important input for BALCO’s captive power plants. BALCO sources its water requirements at Korba from a nearby canal, with the water transported by pipelines. BALCO is currently in a dispute with the National Thermal Power Corporation regarding the right of way for its water pipeline that supplies water to its 270 MW captive power plant, which has been built through National Thermal Power Corporation premises. Arbitration proceedings commenced in 2009 and the order was reserved on June 30, 2014. BALCO and National Thermal Power Corporation submitted a joint survey report to the arbitrator. On the issue of easmentary rights, the arbitrator issued an award dated January 11, 2016 in favor of BALCO and rejected all counter claims of the National Thermal Power Corporation. The National Thermal Power Corporation has challenged the award by filing an application under section 34 before the High Court of Delhi which was listed for admission on May 5, 2016 and the court has ordered for issuance of notice. The next hearing will take place on September 20, 2018. BALCO has also filed the application under section 34 before the High Court of Delhi with respect to claims which were rejected by the arbitrator which is to be listed in due course. In addition, BALCO has a water supply arrangement of 13 million cubic meters per annum for the 540 MW power plant and 28 million cubic meters per annum for the 1200 MW power plant, of which full allotment has been received until March 31, 2018. See “Item 3. Key Information -D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business- Our operations are subject to risks that could result in decreased production, increased cost of production or disruptions in transportation, which could adversely affect our revenue, results of operations and financial condition.”

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Carbon

Carbon is an important raw material to the aluminium smelting process. Carbon is used in the process of electrolysis, in the form of cathodes and anodes, with the latter the biggest component of BALCO’s carbon costs. Anodes are made up of carbonaceous material of high purity. For pre-baked anodes, green carbon paste made of calcined petroleum coke and coal tar pitch is compacted or pressed into the required form. These anodes are baked before their use in electrolytic cells, or pots.

BALCO has in-house facilities to manufacture carbon anodes to meet its entire carbon anode requirements. Calcined petroleum coke, coal tar pitch and fuel oil, which are the key ingredients for the manufacture of carbon anodes, are sourced primarily from the Indian market. There is an adequate supply of these raw materials in India, though their prices are generally determined by movements in global prices. At times, based on commercial comparison, orders for import are also placed.

Other Raw Materials

BALCO also uses other raw materials such as fluorides and other chemicals. For these raw materials, there are several sources of supplies in the domestic markets and BALCO does not foresee any difficulty in securing supplies when needed.

Distribution, Logistics and Transport

Bauxite mined from the Mainpat and Bodai-Daldali mines is transported by road to BALCO’s Korba facility. The alumina purchased from third party suppliers is transported to the Korba facility by rail and ships. BALCO’s aluminium products are transported from the Korba facility to domestic customers through a combination of road and rail, and shipped for export.

Sales and Marketing

BALCO’s 10 largest customers accounted for approximately 58.4%, 59.7% and 65.4% of its revenue for aluminium business in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively. Two of the BALCO’s customers accounted for greater than 11% of BALCO’s revenue in fiscal year 2018. One of the BALCO’s customers accounted for greater than 16% of BALCO’s revenue in fiscal year 2017 and two of BALCO’s customers accounted for greater than 23.19% of BALCO’s revenue in fiscal year 2016.

BALCO’s sales and marketing head office is located in Mumbai, and it has field sales and marketing offices in most major metropolitan centers in India. Currently, BALCO sells its products primarily in the Indian market, with limited focus on exports. However, with the further commissioning of the new 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter, a significant part of the additional production is being in the export market. BALCO’s key customers include conductor manufacturers, state road transport corporations, railways, defense contractors, electrical equipment and machinery manufacturers.

Domestic sales of primary aluminium are based on the London Metal Exchange (“LME”) aluminium cash settlement price and primarily Japanese port premiums. The majority of sales is from long term contracts and Memorandum of Understanding with end users. Our objective is to achieve LME of the month of the scheduled shipment average. Customers book the monthly quantity by the first day of the month and we hedge the same on LME. BALCO’s export sales of aluminium are currently on a spot and long term contract basis at a price based on the LME price plus a premium.

Projects and Developments

On October 7, 2006, BALCO entered into a memorandum of understanding with the state government of Chhattisgarh, India, and the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Board, under which, among other things, feasibility studies will be undertaken to build a thermal coal-based 1200 MW power facility, along with an integrated coal mine in the state of Chhattisgarh at an estimated cost of ₹ 46,500 million ($ 714 million). The project was disrupted in September 2009 due to the collapse of a chimney under construction during heavy rains and lightning at Korba. There were 40 fatalities in the accident and SEPCO Electric Power Construction Corporation, our contractor and the sub-contractor Gamon Dunkerley and Company Limited, are the subject of an investigation by the Chhattisgarh government. The matter is scheduled to be heard on October 23, 2018. We instituted an enquiry which was conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology Rourkee, an expert in the civil engineering field in India. The project was resumed in January 2010. BALCO has constructed 1200 MW (300 MW x 4) thermal power plant. Three units of 300 MW each were commissioned during fiscal year 2016 and the last unit was commissioned and commenced commercial production on May 1, 2016.

In addition, on August 8, 2007, BALCO entered into a memorandum of understanding with the state government of Chhattisgarh for a potential investment to build an aluminium smelter with a capacity of 650,000 tpa at Chhattisgarh at an estimated cost of ₹ 81,000 million ($ 1,244 million). The first of two phases of this project commenced with the setting up of a 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter at an estimated cost of ₹ 38,000 million ($ 584 million), which uses pre-baked GAMI technology. BALCO has received environmental clearances for both phases of the project. Construction has commenced and trial production started in February 2014 from the 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter and 84 pots started commercial production from September 2014. During fiscal year 2017, company started commercial production from another 84 pots from August 1, 2016. Balance 168 pots are operationalized from May 1, 2017.

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As of March 31, 2018, the estimated cost of building the 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter and 1200 MW power facility is ₹ 107,500 million ($ 1,651 million). As of March 31, 2018, ₹ 100,251 million ($ 1,540 million) was spent.

Market Share and Competition

BALCO is among the four primary producers of aluminium in India and together with our aluminium business in Odisha, has a combined primary market share of 40% in fiscal year 2018, according to Aluminium Association of India. BALCO’s key competitors (and their respective primary market shares by volume in India in fiscal year 2018) are Hindalco Industries Limited (39%) and National Aluminium Company Limited, a GoI enterprise (21%).

Aluminium ingots, wire rods and rolled products are commodity products and BALCO competes primarily on the basis of price and service, with price being the most important consideration when supplies are abundant. Aluminium competes with other materials, particularly plastic, steel, iron, glass, and paper, among others, for various applications. In the past, customers have demonstrated a willingness to substitute other materials for aluminium.

Coal mining operations

Thermal coal is a key raw material required for the operation of BALCO’s captive power plants. In September 2014, the Supreme Court of India canceled all the coal blocks that had been awarded to companies in India by the Ministry of Coal between 1992 and 2012. Consequently, in February 2015, the GoI conducted an auction to award mining rights to successful bidders for all such coal blocks. During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2015, BALCO was successful in securing one coal mine known as the Chotia coal block in the GoI coal block auctions. The Chotia coal block was acquired to support BALCO’s captive power plants. BALCO was also successful in its bid for the Gare Palma IV/1 coal block, but the GoI challenged and rejected the award and BALCO does not intend to file any further petitions to appeal for its bid on the coal block.

The Chotia coal block is located in Korba district in the state of Chhattisgarh. The total reserves at the Chotia block are 17.2 million tons with an annual production capacity of one million tons.

The following tables contain details of our coal mining operations.

The Chotia coal mine is divided into two sub-blocks, Chotia I and Chotia II. Both of these blocks are assigned to the existing captive power facilities at our BALCO operations. The estimates provided below are based on the DMT report.


Blocks	Gross CV range (Min – Max)	Sulphur (%)
	Kcal/kg
Chotia I	3,565 - 6,476	0.30-0.60 (Total)*
Chotia II	3,967 - 6,152	0.30 (Total)*

Sulphur data is not available for all seams. Total is based only on available seam data.

This coal, which is thermal grade coal, would be blended with low GCV coal before being fed to the Boiler.

The extractable coal indicated is considering all losses. This number reflects the final tonnage of the mine. There is no plan of putting wash plant either at the mine site or at the plant as the coal is of high GCV.

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Mine and

Location

Means of

Access

Ownership

Operator

Title, leases

or Options

History

Mine type and

mineralization

style

Power

source

Facilities, use

and condition

Chotia Coal Mine, Tehsil-Podiuprodha

District Korba

State Chhattisgarh

Public road

Coal transported by road to BALCO plant in Korba District

Distance between mines and BALCO plant is 73 Km

BALCO-

100%

MDO-Mode

Dhansar Engineering Company Private Limited

Mining lease granted.

Mining lease is valid for 20 years

Lease executed on October 16, 2015

Valid untill-October 15, 2035

Mines commenced coal production in 2006

Open Cast and Underground

Opencast is operational since 2006

No infrastructure is developed by prior allottee for underground hence no coal production from underground mine

Thermal coal is mined from barakar formation of permian age of Gondwana supergroup

One single product is there which is low moisture thermal coal

Electricity is available from Rural Feeder of Chhattisgarh State Electricity Board

Site office, explosive magazine, diesel pump, store, weigh bridge, residential complex is available at site

We source coal from the following principal sources:

•

Our Own Coal Mine – BALCO sources coal from its own coal mine which has annual coal production capacity of one million tons and BALCO produced 0.18 million tons and nil million tons during fiscal year 2017 and 2018 respectively.

•

Other Sources – BALCO sources coal from other sources such as the GoI’s coal mining companies, long-term coal supply agreements with various state governments under power purchase agreements (‘PPA’s) and from imports. In fiscal year 2018, the total coal purchased from these other sources was 7.5 million tons.

The total volume of coal consumed annually by our coal-fueled power plants is largely dependent on the amount of generation and ranges between 9 million to 10 million tons.

For the year ended March 31, 2018, Vedanta Limited did not produce coal from our only coal mine which is situated in Korba.

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Set forth below is a map depicting the location of our coal properties for our coal mining operations:

LOGO

Set forth below are maps depicting access to Chotia coal blocks:

LOGO

(b) Our Aluminium Business in Odisha

Overview

Our aluminium business in Odisha was previously operated by Vedanta Aluminium Limited, which was merged with us pursuant to the Re-organization Transactions. Our Odisha aluminium operations include a 2.0 million tpa alumina refinery at Lanjigarh, with an associated 90 MW captive power plant. In addition, we have a greenfield 500,000 tpa aluminium smelter (“Plant 1”), together with an associated 1215 MW (nine units with a capacity of 135 MW each) coal-based captive power plant in Jharsuguda. We are also setting up another 1,250,000 tpa aluminium smelter (“Plant 2”) in Jharsuguda. 84 pots from the first line of this smelter were commissioned during fiscal year 2015 and of which 80 pots were capitalized on December 1, 2015 and a further ramp up commenced from April 1, 2016. A total of 424 pots and 336 pots were capitalized during fiscal year 2017 and 2018 respectively. As of March 31, 2018, 840 pots have been capitalized out of 1,322 pots.

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The alumina refinery at Lanjigarh was commissioned in March 2010 and produced 1,209,436 tons of alumina in fiscal year 2018. Greenfield smelter project of 500,000 tpa at Jharsuguda was implemented in two phases of 250,000 tpa each. Phase 1 was completed on November 30, 2009 and Phase 2 was completed on March 1, 2010. The metal production for fiscal year 2018 was 441,295 tons from Plant 1 and 610,096 tons production from Plant 2 and the net generation was 6,770 million units and 8,955 million units from the 1215 MW power plant and 1800 MW power plant respectively.

Principal Products

Primary aluminium is produced from the smelting of metallurgical grade alumina. We produce primary aluminium in the form of ingots, billets and wire rods for sale. Ingots are used extensively for aluminium castings and fabrication in the construction and transportation industries. Billets are used extensively in construction (windows and door frames), transportation, engineering, consumer durables, automotive forgings and many other applications. Wire rods are used in various electrical applications especially in the form of electrical conductors and cables.

Delivery to Customers

Ingots, billets and wire rods are transported by trucks and rake to customers in India and by rakes to ports for export.

Principal Facilities

Overview

The following map shows the details of the locations of the aluminium segment’s facilities in the State of Odisha:

LOGO

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The following table sets forth the capacities as on March 31, 2018 at our Lanjigarh and Jharsuguda facilities:


	Capacity tpa
Facility
Lanjigarh Alumina Refinery		2,000,000
Jharsuguda Aluminium Smelter		500,000
Jharsuguda Aluminium Smelter (partially completed)		1,250,000

Lanjigarh

Alumina refinery and captive power plant

The Lanjigarh alumina refinery is located in the Lanjigarh district in the state of Odisha, which is located approximately 450 km from BALCO’s Korba facility in the state of Chhattisgarh. In March 2007, we began the progressive commissioning of a 1 mtpa greenfield alumina refinery, expandable to 1.4 mtpa of installed capacity and an associated 75 MW captive power plant, expandable to 90 MW. The captive power plant is fully operational and can meet the power requirements of the refinery. The second production stream of the Lanjigarh alumina refinery was commissioned in March 2010. Production of alumina at the refinery at Lanjigarh was temporarily suspended since December 5, 2012, due to inadequate availability of bauxite and the plant recommenced operations on July 12, 2013. We are currently in discussions with government authorities for sourcing adequate supply of bauxite. Production at the alumina refinery does not affect production at the smelters.

We planned to expand our alumina refining capacity at Lanjigarh to 5 mtpa by constructing a second alumina refinery, with a refining capacity of 3 mtpa along with an associated 210 MW captive power plant. The expansion of the alumina refinery and related mining operations in and around the Niyamgiri was put on hold in October 20, 2010, when the MoEF directed us to hold from further expansion. Environmental clearance for the Lanjigarh expansion project was received on November 20, 2015 for up to 4 mtpa, and an additional environmental clearance for up to 6 mtpa will be received after the completion of land acquisition of the balance area of 666.03 HA. Further, a consent to establish for 4 mtpa and a consent to operate for 2 mtpa was also obtained. However, construction activities continue to be on hold and the management is evaluating the timing for resuming construction activities in Lanjigarh. As approvals for expansion from 2 mtpa to 4 mtpa of the Lanjigarh refinery has been received, second stream operations commenced at the alumina refinery from April 2016 and the debottlenecked capacity has reached 2 mtpa (although this is contingent on the bauxite quality). We continue to explore the feasibility of expanding our alumina refinery capacity, from 2 to 4 mtpa and then up to 6 mtpa, subject to bauxite availability and regulatory approvals. See “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information – Legal Proceedings” for further details.

Jharsuguda

Aluminium smelter and Captive Power Plant

The Jharsuguda aluminium smelter is located in Jharsuguda in the state of Odisha in India. Operations in the Jharsuguda facility were implemented in two phases. The first phase has a production capacity of 250,000 tpa and was completed in November 2009. The second phase was commissioned in June 2010. A total of 9 units of the associated 1215 MW coal-based thermal captive power plant of 135 MW each have been commissioned. The captive power plant units meet the power requirements of the Jharsuguda smelter and all other power requirements of this facility. We are also setting up a 1,250,000 tpa aluminium smelter and capitalized 80 pots also during fiscal year 2016. A total of 424 pots and 336 pots were capitalized during fiscal year 2017 and 2018 respectively. As of March 31, 2018, 840 pots have been capitalized out of 1,322 pots. Power to the new smelter will be provided by our 1800 MW power plant in Jharsuguda.

Production Volumes

The following table sets out total production from our Lanjigarh and Jharsuguda facilities for fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018:


			For the year ended March 31
			(tons)
Facility	Product		2016		2017		2018
Lanjigarh		Calcined alumina		970,893		1,207,957		1,209,436

Jharsuguda		Ingots		333,249		474,288		590,375
		Billets		110,400		146,023		315,537
		Wire rods		139,184		119,471		155,865
		Hot metal		8,892		46,541		44,257

				591,725		786,323		1,106,034

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Principal Raw Materials

The principal inputs of the aluminium operations are bauxite, alumina, power, carbon and certain other raw materials.

Bauxite

Currently, we do not have any dedicated mining source and are in the process of identifying bauxite mining sources across India. Currently, bauxite is being sourced primarily through imports (29.7%), from the domestic market in the west coast (5.4%), BALCO mines (28.8%) and the remaining from Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Andhra Pradesh. During April 2018, we have entered into a long term linkage agreement with Odisha Mining Corporation Limited (“OMC”) to supply 70% of saleable bauxite from Kodingamali mine.

Alumina

Alumina is the primary raw material used in the production of aluminium. We currently source alumina largely from third-party suppliers in international markets. The alumina sourced externally is metallurgical grade calcined alumina with a minimum alumina content of 98.6% on a dry basis. In fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, we purchased 0.47 million tons, 0.77 million tons and 1.37 million tons of alumina at an average price of $ 353 per mt, $ 311 per mt and $ 388 per mt, respectively, on a cost, insurance and freight basis at the port situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

Power

Smelting primary aluminium requires a substantial and continuous supply of electricity. As a result, power is a key input at our Jharsuguda facility, where power is provided by nine coal-based captive power plants of 135 MW each. To meet the additional power requirements of the second Smelter, three thermal power plant units of 600 MW each at Jharsuguda has been converted to captive power plants based on an order issued by the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission with effect from April 1, 2015. We have been sourcing coal through coal linkage from Mahanadi coal field, imports, e-auction and from washeries. The linkage coal quantity from Mahanadi coal field is transported through bottom discharge wagons.

The power plant at Jharsuguda sources coal from sources such as the GoI’s coal mining companies, long-term coal supply agreements with various state governments under PPAs and from imports. In fiscal year 2018, the total coal purchased from these other sources was 6.23 million tons for 135 x 9 MW and 7.10 million tons for 600 x 3 MW power plants.

The total volume of coal consumed annually by coal-fueled power plants is largely dependent on the amount of generation. During fiscal year 2018, total coal consumed by 135 x 9 MW and 600 x 3 MW power plants was 5.94 million and 7.27 million tons respectively.

Water

Water is also an important input for our captive power plants. We source our water requirements at Jharsuguda from Hirakud Dam situated over a distance of 33 km, with the water transported by pipelines. Water from the dam is stored at water reservoir inside the plant, from where the water is purified in a demineralize plant to make it fit for use in the power plant.

Carbon

We have our in-house facilities to manufacture carbon anodes to meet our entire carbon anode requirements. Calcined petroleum coke, coal tar pitch and fuel oil, which are the key ingredients for the manufacture of carbon anodes, are sourced primarily from the domestic Indian market. There is an adequate supply of these raw materials in India, though their prices are generally determined by movements in global prices. At times, based on commercial comparison, orders for import are also placed.

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Other Raw Materials

We also use other raw materials such as fluorides and other chemicals. For these raw materials, there are several sources of supplies in the domestic markets and we do not foresee any difficulty in securing supplies when needed.

Distribution, Logistics and Transport

The alumina purchased from third party suppliers is transported to the Jharsuguda facility by rail and ports. Our aluminium products are transported from the Jharsuguda facility to domestic customers through a combination of road and rail, and shipped for export.

Sales and Marketing

Our 10 largest customers of our Odisha aluminium business accounted for approximately 53.4%, 63.1% and 70.0% of Odisha aluminium business in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively. One of our Odisha aluminium business customers accounted for 12.2% and 10.2% of Odisha aluminium business revenue in fiscal year 2016 and 2017, respectively. Two of our customers accounted for greater than 10% of aluminium business revenue in fiscal year 2018.

The sales and marketing head office is located in Mumbai and we have field sales and marketing offices in most major metropolitan centers in India. Currently, our aluminium business sells only primary products and has equal focus on both the Indian and the exports market. Our key customers include cables and conductor manufacturers, transport sector and electrical equipment and machinery manufacturers.

Domestic sales are normally conducted on the basis of domestic supply and demand conditions with the pricing methodology as LME based pricing, where the LME on the day of order confirmation by the customer forms the basis for billing. The domestic price for aluminium is normally higher than the price charged in the export markets due to the tariff structure, smaller order sizes that domestic customers place and the packaging, storing and truck loading expenses incurred when supplied to domestic customers.

Our aluminium export sales are currently on both spot and long term basis at a price based on the LME price plus a premium. Long term contracts range from three months to one year and sales are maximized in focus markets though we are trying to establish our presence in all markets to minimize geo-political risks.

Projects and Developments

We plan to invest ₹ 106,000 million ($ 1,628 million) to expand our alumina refining capacity at Lanjigarh to 5 mtpa by (i) constructing a second alumina refinery with a capacity of 3 mtpa; and (ii) constructing an associated 210 MW captive power plant. The expansion of the alumina refinery at Lanjigarh was on hold since October 20, 2010 due to the order passed by the MoEF’s restricting us from any further expansion of this refinery.

Against this order, we filed a writ petition in the High Court of Odisha and the Court dismissed our petition. We subsequently made an application to the MoEF to reconsider the grant of the environmental clearance for our alumina refinery. The MoEF by its letter dated February 2, 2012, issued fresh terms of reference to us for preparation of the Environment Impact Assessment report. We submitted the Environment Impact Assessment report to the Odisha Pollution Control Board and simultaneously submitted various representations to the MoEF as well as the Project Monitoring Group established under the Cabinet Committee on Investments. The expert appraisal committee of the MoEF reconsidered the project and revalidated the terms of reference for 22 months effective January 2014. Therefore the ban imposed on the expansion of our alumina refinery was lifted and we are pursuing the matter with the state government. The public hearing was held on July 30, 2014 subsequent to which the expert appraisal committee, in its meeting held on January 9, 2015, has recommended the project for environmental clearance and for the further expansion of our Lanjigarh refinery. In respect of the Lanjigarh Expansion project, environmental clearance for the Lanjigarh expansion project was received on November 20, 2015 for up to 4 mtpa, and an additional environmental clearance for up to 6 mtpa will be received after the completion of land acquisition of the balance area of 666.03 HA. Further, a consent to establish for 4 mtpa and a consent to operate for 2 mtpa has also been obtained. However, construction activities continue to be on hold and the management is evaluating the timing for resuming construction activities in Lanjigarh. As approvals for expansion of the Lanjigarh refinery to 4 mtpa has been received, second stream operations have commenced at the Alumina refinery from April 2016, the debottlenecked capacity has reached 2 mtpa (although this is contingent on the bauxite quality). We continue to explore the feasibility of expanding our alumina refinery capacity, from 2 to 4 mtpa and then up to 6 mtpa, subject to bauxite availability and regulatory approvals. See “Item 8. Financial Information - A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information – Legal Proceedings” for details. As of March 31, 2018, we spent ₹ 59,014 million ($ 906 million) on the Lanjigarh expansion project.

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We are also investing an estimated ₹ 145,000 million ($ 2,227 million) to set up a second 1,250,000 tpa aluminium smelter. Power for the new smelter will be provided by our 1800 MW commercial power plant at Jharsuguda. As of March 31, 2018, we spent ₹ 140,570 million ($ 2,159 million) on this project.

Our Commercial Power Generation Business

Overview

We have been building and managing power plants since 1997. As of March 31, 2018, the total power generating capacity of our thermal power plants, wind power plants and gas based plants was 9,000 MW, which includes our fourteen thermal coal-based captive power plants with a total power generation capacity of 5,239.6 MW. The following table sets forth information relating to our existing power plants as of March 31, 2018:


Fiscal Year Commissioned	Capacity		Location	Fuel Used
	(MW)
1988⁽¹⁾		270.0	Korba	Thermal Coal
1997		24.0	Tuticorin	Liquid fuel
1999		75.0	Mettur Dam	Thermal Coal
2003		7.4	Debari	Liquid fuel
2003		6.0	Zawar	Liquid fuel
2003		14.8	Chanderiya ⁽²⁾	Liquid fuel
2003		4.8	Cambay	Gas based
1999 and 2003		10.0	Ravva	Gas based
2005		7.5	Tuticorin	Liquid fuel
2005		15.0	Pantnagar	Liquid fuel
2005		154.0	Chanderiya	Thermal coal
2006		540.0	Korba	Thermal coal
2007		75.0	Lanjigarh	Thermal coal
2007		107.2	Gujarat and Karnataka	Wind ⁽³⁾
2007		30.0	Amona	Gas based
2008		80.0	Chanderiya	Thermal coal
2009		80.0	Zawar	Thermal coal
2009		16.0	Gujarat and Karnataka	Wind ⁽³⁾
2009		675.0	Jharsuguda	Thermal coal
2009		25.0	Mettur Dam	Thermal coal
2010		540.0	Jharsuguda	Thermal coal
2010		3.3	Rajasthan Raageshwari Gas terminal	Gas based
2010		14.4	Gujrat Viramgam Terminal	Gas based
2010		32.5	Pipeline Above Ground Installations	Gas based
2011		1200.0	Jharsuguda	Thermal coal
2011		48.0	Rajasthan and Karnataka	Wind
2011		174.3	Dariba	Thermal coal
2012		103.0	Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu	Wind ⁽³⁾
2012		600.0	Jharsuguda	Thermal coal
2012		30.0	Amona	Gas based
2013		600.0	Jharsuguda	Thermal coal
2013		80.0	Tuticorin	Thermal coal
2013		6.5	Mettur Dam	Thermal coal
2014		80.0	Tuticorin	Thermal coal
2010 and 2014		60.0	Rajasthan Mangala Processing terminal	Thermal coal
2015		31.3	Gujrat Bhogat terminal	Thermal coal
2015		660.0	Mansa- Talwandi Sabo Road, Mansa, Punjab	Thermal coal
2016		660.0	Mansa- Talwandi Sabo Road, Mansa, Punjab	Thermal coal
2016		900.0	Korba	Thermal coal
2017		660.0	Mansa- Talwandi Sabo Road, Mansa, Punjab	Thermal coal
2017		300.0	Korba	Thermal coal


	9,000.0

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Notes:

(1)	Commissioned by BALCO prior to our acquisition of BALCO in 2001. The 270 MW power plant was transferred from power business to aluminium business on April 1, 2016.

(2)	Transferred from Debari to Chanderiya in March 2009.

(3)	Our wind power plants are not for captive use.

Power production volumes

The following table sets out total power production volumes in MU for the last three fiscal years:


	For Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
Facility	2016		2017		2018

BALCO 270 MW⁽¹⁾		169		0		0
BALCO 600 MW⁽²⁾		1,025		2,609		1,536

Jharsuguda coal based independent thermal power plant⁽¹⁾		7,319		3,328		1,172

HZL Wind Power Plant		415		448		414
MALCO – 106.5 MW coal based thermal power plant⁽³⁾		402		190		4
TSPL		2,792		6,339		7,915


Total		12,122		12,914		11,041

(1)	Three Jharsuguda 600 MW power plants and BALCO 270 MW power plant were transferred from the power to aluminium business on April 1, 2016.

(2)	BALCO 600 MW production figure represents external wheeling excluding internal consumption.

(3)	MALCO plant has been put under care and maintenance from May 26, 2017.

Jharsuguda Power sale excludes power transfer of 145 MU, 4,757 MU and 10,038 MU to its smelting facilities in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Commercial power plants

We previously had a 2400 MW coal based thermal power plant facility (comprising of four units of 600 MW each) in Jharsuguda in the state of Odisha. The power plant was earlier operated through Sterlite Energy and is now a part of Vedanta pursuant to the Re-organization Transactions. The plant has been built with an estimated investment of approximately ₹ 82,000 million ($ 1,259 million). The first unit of commercial operation commenced in November 10, 2010. The second unit was operational on March 30, 2011 and the third unit was operational in August 19, 2011. The fourth unit was operational on April 26, 2012. On June 17, 2015, we petitioned to OERC to convert the 2400 MW independent power plant into a captive generating plant to cater to the power needs of the 1.25 mtpa smelter at Jharsuguda and consequently, the OERC issued an order of conversion of three units into captive generating plants with effect from April 1, 2015, while retaining the IPP status of one unit to fulfill the obligations under the PPA with GRIDCO. As a result, three of the four 600 MW units were converted to captive generating plants during fiscal year 2017.

The coal based thermal power plant facility requires approximately 3.5 million tpa of coal. We have applied to the Ministry of Coal for allotments of coal blocks and long term coal linkages, which are long term supply contracts for delivery of coal meeting specific contract specifications for captive use. In January 2008, the Ministry of Coal jointly allocated the coal blocks in the Rampia and Dip Side Rampia in the state of Odisha to six companies, including Sterlite Energy. The six companies entered into an agreement to jointly promote a new company called Rampia Coal Mine and Energy Private Limited, or RCMEPL, which was incorporated in February 2008.

The Company invested in M/s Rampia Coal Mines and Energy Private Limited, a joint venture incorporated in India that was set up for the purpose of developing coal blocks. The Company acquired ₹ 24.3 million equity shares of ₹ 1 each, representing 17.39% of the total equity shares. However, due to the cancellation of coal blocks by the Supreme Court of India, an impairment loss of ₹ 24.3 million was recognized in respect of such investment.

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Power plants in Odisha source coal from sources such as the GoI’s coal mining companies, long-term coal supply agreements with various state governments under PPAs and from imports. In fiscal year 2018, the total coal purchased from these sources was 1.87 million tons.

The total volume of coal consumed annually by Odisha’s coal-fueled power plants is largely dependent on the amount of generation and ranges between 2 million to 3.5 million tons.

Additionally, we have been allotted a coal linkage of 2.6 mmtpa for the Jharsuguda project to meet the coal requirements of the 600 MW unit, for which fuel supply agreement was entered into with Mahanadi Coalfields Limited with an assurance of supplying 90% of the total quantity.

In September 2006, Sterlite Energy entered into a power purchase agreement with GRIDCO, which was amended in August 2009 and further amended in December 2012, in which GRIDCO was granted the right to purchase upto 25.0% of the power sent out from the power plant after adjustments for auxiliary consumption by us, for approximately up to 561 MW from this project. Further, GRIDCO shall at all times have the right on behalf of the state government of Odisha to receive from the Jharsuguda power project, 7.0% of the power generated (after adjustments for auxiliary consumption by the power plant), up to approximately 157 MW of power at variable cost, if the coal block is allocated within the state or 5.0% of the power generated (after adjustments for auxiliary consumption by the power plant), up to approximately 112 MW of power at variable cost, if the coal block is allocated outside the state as determined by the Orissa Electricity Regulatory Commission (“OERC”). GRIDCO will have the right to purchase power from us for a period of 25 years from the date of commercial operation of the last unit. The tariff for the PPA is revised once every five years. This right is an option to purchase rather than a binding commitment of GRIDCO.

In the event GRIDCO decides not to avail part or whole of the above mentioned right during any five year period, it shall give six months’ notice of the same to us prior to the commencement of such period. Power from the power plant to be purchased by GRIDCO will be evacuated by GRIDCO from the bus bar (which is the discharge point of the power plant) of the project. For the evacuation of the remaining power, we have constructed a 400 KV Loop-In-Loop-Out I (“LILO I”) and a 400 KV Loop-In-Loop-Out II (“LILO II”) transmission line. Sterlite Energy entered into an agreement with Power Grid Corporation India Limited (“PGCIL”) in July 2010 to build the dedicated transmission system required for evacuating power from the power plant to the pooling units of PGCIL. The PGCIL lines (Rourkela-Raigarh Line) where LILOs were connected achieved Commercial operation date (“COD”) on March 1, 2013. SEL had been injecting power through the aforesaid LILO-II and LILO-I has been abandoned due to tower collapse. Further, LILO I extended upto Jharsuguda pooling station as dedicated transmission line (400 KV) and achieved COD as on November 6, 2017 and joint inspection has been completed in May 2018. Pursuant to commissioning of dedicated transmission line, PGCIL has disconnected LILO-II.

The tariff for the sale of power by us to GRIDCO will be determined by the OERC as follows:

For the sale of power up to 25.0% of the installed capacity:

(i)

a fixed capacity charge which shall be determined by the OERC as per the terms and conditions of tariff issued from time to time and will be related to target availability. Recovery of fixed capacity charges below the level of target availability shall be done on a pro rata basis and calculated proportionately to the capacity requisitioned to GRIDCO; and

(ii)

a variable energy charge, which shall comprise fuel cost and shall be calculated on the basis of the ex-bus energy scheduled to be sent out from the generating station. The energy charges shall be calculated as per the methodology prescribed by the OERC from time to time.

For the sale of power for 7% or 5% depending on the allocation of coal blocks within the state of Odisha a variable energy charge is applicable, which shall comprise fuel cost and shall be calculated on the basis of the ex-bus energy scheduled to be sent out from the generating station. The energy charges shall be calculated as per the methodology prescribed by the appropriate commission, from time to time.

On June 12, 2013, the Orissa Electricity Regulatory Commission pronounced a decision and working methodology on tariff determination in relation to the procurement of power by GRIDCO for the period from November 2010 to March 2014. Aggrieved by the order, the Company filed a review petition before the OERC that was nevertheless disposed by the OERC on September 25, 2013.

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Subsequently, we filed an appeal against the OERC’s decision with the appellate tribunal for electricity (“APTEL”) on October 28, 2013. APTEL in its interim order dated March 28, 2014 recognized the fact of transmission line constraints and directed the state load dispatch center for the re-computation of the plant availability factor (PAF) and advised to schedule the power of GRIDCO for transmission line constraint considerations in the future. Subsequently, GRIDCO filed a stay appeal in the Supreme Court against the order of the appellate tribunal that was dismissed by the Supreme Court on March 16, 2015. Consequently, APTEL directed GRIDCO to pay the amount due of ₹ 1,640 million. In compliance with the order, GRIDCO made the payment in fiscal year 2016.

Additionally, GRIDCO filed an appeal against the OERC tariff order dated June 12, 2013 in APTEL on the transmission constraint issue. This appeal was dismissed by APTEL on May 10, 2016, as it upheld the decision on transmission constraints as passed in the original OERC order. Simultaneously, APTEL also dismissed our appeal filed on October 28, 2013, while upholding the issue of transmission constraints.

In September 2016, we received a notice from GRIDCO for the recovery of ₹ 1,640 million paid consequent to the orders of APTEL and Supreme Court, as our main appeal got dismissed by APTEL. Against GRIDCO’s demand for recovery, we filed an appeal for clarification with APTEL and same was dismissed for the reason that its previous order was self-explanatory. Aggrieved by this dismissal, we filed a civil appeal in Supreme Court, but later withdrew the appeal on March 10, 2017.

The OERC through its order dated April 17, 2017 allowed that, for calculating plant availability factor achieved during the month (“PAFM”) of the IPP, the carrying capacity of the line at 400 MW in a sustainable mode should be taken into consideration. Accordingly, while calculating the PAFM of the installed capacity of Unit-II of IPP should be taken as 400 MW or actual injection whichever is higher. The aforesaid mechanism should be adopted for the period from November, 2010 untill the transmission line constrain was resolved. The said order confirmed the findings of transmission line constraint and provided for a mechanism for calculating PAFM and thus claiming higher Annual Fixed Charge.

Aggrieved by the aforesaid order by OERC, GRIDCO filed an application to review the order. The hearings in review petition have been concluded and order has received on May 16, 2018 in which OERC dismissed the review petition of GRIDCO.

The entire amount payable by GRIDCO withheld beyond the due date shall accrue a late payment surcharge at the rate of 1.25% per month from the due date to the actual date of payment. The Company has not made any accruals towards the said amount in the books.

On September 12, 2016, GRIDCO raised a demand for payment towards Environment Management Fund (“EMF”) as per the data available to GRIDCO. The State Government notified the levy of a contribution towards EMF by Thermal Power Plant (“TPP”) at the rate of 6 paisa per unit of energy sold outside the state. The Company has challenged such notification on the ground that it has not been backed by any legislation and is a policy decision of the government that has no legal basis. GRIDCO has started recovering ₹ 30 million ($ 0 million) per month from December 2016 onwards towards arrears of EMF. To date, GRIDCO has kept ₹ 270 million ($ 4 million) on hold. The Company has made a provision in this respect. Further, in interim order dated November 7, 2017, the High Court of Odisha has granted the stay on payment of EMF levy.

OERC through its order dated February 27, 2018 has approved the claim of the Company in relation to the revised debt equity structure post its merger with Sesa Goa in 2013. The OERC in its order has allowed GRIDCO to pay the total amount in six half yearly instalments without interest. The Company has filed review petition with OERC in May 2018, primarily on the limited issue of non-grant of interest to it. The Company, based on legal advice, firmly believes that its right to interest (time value of money) is protected under the Electricity laws and OERC has erred in allowing interest-free payment to GRIDCO.

The Company also filed Multi Year Tariff (“MYT”) petition for fixation of tariff for the period starting fiscal year 2015 to fiscal year 2019. The hearing on the matter has concluded and the order has been issued by OERC on June 29, 2018. The tariff has been approved as per the CERC Tariff Regulation, 2014-2019 till October 9, 2014 and beyond this period based on OERC Generation Tariff Regulation, 2014. The order deos not have any significant impact on the basis of revenue recognition in the books. However, the Company is still in the process of detailed evaluation of the said order.

The ten largest customers of our Odisha power business accounted for 100% of Odisha power business in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018. Three of the top customers accounted for 68%, 100%, and 100% of our Odisha power business in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018.

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Talwandi Sabo

In July 2008, Sterlite Energy succeeded in an international bidding process and was awarded the project for the construction of a 1980 MW coal-based thermal commercial power plant at Talwandi Sabo in the state of Punjab in India. The project was bid as Case-2 tariff based competitive bidding, implying that the developer had to quote for capacity charges and efficiency. Fuel costs subject to quoted efficiency was to be a pass-through. All necessary approvals for the project have been obtained and commissioning of this project was carried out in stages. The estimated cost of the project was ₹ 115,460 million ($ 1,773 million). The boiler light up and synchronization of the first unit was achieved in fiscal year 2014, and coal logistics were established in fiscal year 2014.

The first and second 660 MW units of the Talwandi Sabo power plant were capitalized in fiscal years 2015 and 2016 respectively. The third 660 MW unit was capitalised on September 1, 2016 after successful completion of trial runs.

In May 2008, Sterlite Energy entered into an on-shore and offshore engineering, procurement and construction contract with SEPCO Electric Power Construction Corporation (“SEPCO”), for Sterlite Energy’s Talwandi Sabo thermal power project for ₹ 66,560 million ($ 1,022 million). A novation agreement in favor of TSPL was executed in November 2009. The contract was revised upwards by $ 74 million on November 15, 2012 to reflect the set-up and commissioning of three units of power at the Talwandi Sabo thermal power plant.

SEPCO’s obligations under the contract include testing and delivery of plant and equipment, system design and engineering of plant and equipment in accordance with technical specifications, supervision of civil, structure and manufacturing work, custom clearance, port clearance, inland transportation of offshore as well as onshore plant and equipment, unloading, storage and preservation for all equipment and material required, ash disposal among others within the period specified in the contracts. The fixed contract price is payable in multiple installments according to a fixed payment schedule. SEPCO has provided performance guarantees with respect to various parameters, for instance, net unit heat rate of 2,222.80 kwph/kcal and net unit electric output of 611.82 MW. On February 3, 2016, TSPL terminated the SEPCO EPC contract, due to delays in setting up the project, and for certain defects and deviations not being resolved in a timely manner. However, on April 16, 2016 the parties reached an agreement for the settlement of the EPC contract issues. The revised value of the contract stands at USD 1,041.8 million for offshore supply and service, and ₹ 21,371 million for onshore supply and service.

As of March 31, 2018, ₹ 116,837 million ($ 1,794 million) was spent on this project. This project is financed by internal sources and through debt financing.

After commencing all units, TSPL requires around 10 million tpa of coal. TSPL has been allotted the linkages from Mahanadi Coal Fields Limited, Odisha for 7.72 million tpa. According to the fuel supply agreement with Mahanadi Coal Fields, 80% of the letter of assurance quantity is 6.17 million tpa, of which 5.01 million tpa is to be supplied through domestic sources and the remaining 1.16 million tpa is supplied through imported sources. The balance coal shall be procured through other sources. The linkage coal quantity will be transported from a distance of approximately 1600 km by rail.

TSPL sources coal from sources such as the GoI’s coal mining companies, long-term coal supply agreements with various state governments under PPA’s and from imports. In fiscal year 2018, the total coal purchased from these sources was 5.61 million metric tons.

The total volume of coal consumed annually by our coal-fueled power plants is largely dependent on the amount of generation and ranges between 6.99 million to 8.16 million metric tons for PLF ranging from 60% to 70%.

In TSPL, there is only one customer which accounted for 100% of TSPL power business in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018.

BALCO

BALCO’s power business includes a 270 MW power plant at BALCO’s Korba facility. The 270 MW power plant was transferred from power business to aluminium business on April 1, 2016. BALCO has constructed an IPP 600 MW coal-based thermal power facility in the state of Chhattisgarh which had received approval to operate on January 14, 2015 from the regulatory authorities. One unit of 300 MW was commissioned during fiscal year 2016, and the second unit was commissioned and commenced commercial production on May 1, 2016.

HZL—Wind Power Plants

As of March 31, 2018, wind power plants with a combined power generation capacity of 274 MW have been commissioned in the States of Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Rajasthan in India at a total cost of ₹ 14,540 million ($ 223 million). The electricity from these wind power plants is sold to State Electricity Boards.

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MALCO Energy Limited – Mettur Power Plant

Mettur power plant is a 106.5 MW coal based thermal power plant operated by MALCO Energy Limited in the state of Tamil Nadu.

The plant has been set up in stages, with the first 75 MW set up in the year 1999 to cater to the requirements of the aluminium smelter operated by MALCO. The aluminium operations were closed since November 2008. An additional 25 MW unit was added in 2009. Further, a 6.50 MW steam turbine generator was added in 2013, increasing the total capacity to 106.5 MW.

MALCO entered into an energy purchase agreement with Tamil Nadu Electricity Board in January 2009 for the supply of power until April 2009 and entered into an agreement with Power Trading Corporation Limited for the supply of power to Tamil Nadu Electricity Board from April 2009 until May 2011, which was subsequently re-entered with Tamil Nadu Electricity Board from June 2011 until May 31, 2016. MALCO had entered into an agreement with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited for supply of power (66.3 MW) to Telangana State Southern Power Distribution Company Limited from June 2016 to May 2017. The tariff for power supply is as provided in the energy purchase agreement. Currently, MALCO does not have any energy purchase agreement for the supply of power. Due to prevailing business conditions, the MALCO plant has been put under care and maintenance from May 26, 2017.

MALCO sources entire coal through imports (from various countries including Indonesia, Russia and South Africa). In fiscal year 2018, no coal was purchased from these sources.

The total volume of coal consumed annually by our coal-fueled power plants is largely dependent on the amount of generation and ranges between 0.5 million to 0.55 million tons at 100% PLF.

MALCO’s 10 largest customers accounted for approximately 78.5%, 100.0% and 100.0% of revenue for MALCO’s power business in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively. One of MALCO’s customers accounted for 71.1%, 42.7%, and 100.0% of MALCO’s revenue in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Other Opportunities in Power

We also sell any excess power generated from our captive power plants to third parties pursuant to commercial arrangements. For example, Vedanta Aluminium entered into a letter of intent dated November 16, 2011 that was revised on September 14, 2012, with GRIDCO for the sale of excess power from its captive power plant at Jharsuguda. We also have an arrangement for the sale of excess power from our captive power plant at Tuticorin.

Other Business

Port Business

We have a 100% interest in Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited, which won the bid to mechanize the coal handling facilities and upgrade the general cargo berth for handling coal at the outer harbor of Vishakhapatnam port located on the east coast of India. The capacity of the upgraded berth is 10.2 mmtpa.

Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited has entered into an agreement on June 10, 2010 with the port authority, Vishakhapatnam Port Trust, to mechanize the coal handling facilities and upgrade the general cargo berth on a build-operate-transfer basis for 30 years commencing on the date of award of concession. The company started commercial operations effective as of March 15, 2013. Vishakhapatnam Port Trust receives a royalty of 38.1% of the gross revenue chargeable by Vizag General Cargo Berth Limited as per Tariff Authority for Major Ports which is based on the pre-determined tariff we receive for cargo handling activities as set out in the concession agreement. Sterlite Ports Limited, a 100% subsidiary of Vedanta Limited has received an award of letter dated March 31, 2016, for redevelopment of berths 8, 9, barge berths and mechanical ore handling plant at the Port of Mormugao, Goa on a design-build-finance-operate-transfer basis for 19 mmtpa capacity multi-cargo port terminal. A special purpose company, “Goa Sea Port Private Limited” was incorporated on July 5, 2016 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Sterlite Ports Limited. Goa Sea Port Private Limited entered into an agreement on September 22, 2016 with the Mormugao Port Trust, to operate the berth on a build-finance-operate-transfer basis for 30 years commencing on the date of award of concession. The date for fulfillment of condition precedents for commencement of the concession has been mutually extended till August 15, 2018 as Mormugao Port Trust is in process of obtaining environment clearance, which is one of the condition precedent.

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Glass substrate business

On December 28, 2017, the Group acquired 51.63% equity stake in AvanStrate Inc. (ASI) for a cash consideration of ₹ 1 million ($ 0 million) and acquired debts for ₹ 9,832 million ($ 151 million). Additionally, a loan of ₹ 469 million ($ 7 million) was extended to ASI. ASI is involved in the manufacturing of glass substrate. The financial results of ASI from the date of acquisition to March 31, 2018 have been included in the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

As per the shareholding agreement entered with the other major shareholder holding 46.6% in ASI, the Group has call option, conversion option to convert part of its debt given to ASI into equity of ASI as well as it has issued put option to the other majority shareholder. These are exercisable as per the terms mentioned in the shareholding agreement.

The fair values and business combination has been accounted for on a provisional basis under IFRS 3, as it relates to property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets, and the resultant bargain gain of ₹ 335 million ($ 5 million) has been recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Exploration and Development Activities

We are engaged in ongoing exploration and development activities to locate additional ore bodies in India, Australia, South Africa, Namibia and Ireland. We spent approximately ₹ 10,513 million ($ 161 million) in fiscal year 2018 on exploration.

The focus of our exploration has been sediment hosted zinc deposits in India and oil and gas exploration in India and South Africa.

Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO

Call Options Over Shares in HZL

On April 11, 2002, we acquired a 26.0% interest in HZL from the GoI through our subsidiary, SOVL (which merged with us with effect from April 1, 2012). At the time of the acquisition, we owned 80.0% and Sterlite Technologies Limited owned the remaining 20.0% in SOVL. In February 2003, Sterlite Technologies Limited transferred its 20.0% interest to us. We subsequently acquired a further 20.0% interest in HZL through an open market offer. The total cash consideration paid by us for the acquisition of the 46.0% interest in HZL was ₹ 7,776 million ($ 119 million at the time of acquisition). Upon our acquisition of the 26.0% interest in HZL, we and the GoI entered into a shareholders’ agreement to regulate, among other things, the management of HZL and dealings in HZL’s shares.

Under the shareholders’ agreement, the GoI granted us two call options to acquire all the shares in HZL held by the GoI at the time of exercise. We exercised the first call option on August 29, 2003 and acquired an additional 18.9% of HZL’s issued share capital at a cost of ₹ 3,239 million ($ 50 million) on November 12, 2003, increasing our interest in HZL to 64.9%.

The shareholders’ agreement provides that prior to selling shares in HZL to a third party, either party must first issue a sale notice offering those shares to the other party at the price it intends to sell them to the third party. However, a transfer of shares, representing not more than 5.0% of the equity share capital of HZL, by the GoI to the employees of HZL is not subject to such right of first refusal by us. The GoI has transferred shares representing 1.5% of HZL’s share capital to the employees of HZL. The shareholders’ agreement also provides that if the GoI proposes to make a sale of its shares in HZL by a public offer prior to the exercise of our second call option, then we shall have no right of first refusal.

The second call option provides us a right to acquire the GoI’s remaining 29.5% shareholding in HZL, subject to the right of the GoI to transfer up to 3.5% of the issued share capital of HZL to employees of HZL, in which case the number of shares that we may purchase under the second call option will be reduced accordingly. This call option became exercisable on April 11, 2007 and remains exercisable for as long as the GoI has not sold its remaining interest pursuant to a public offer of its shares. Under the shareholders’ agreement, upon the issuance of a notice of exercise of the second call option by us to the GoI, we shall be under an obligation to complete the purchase of the shares, if any, then held by the GoI, within a period of 60 days from the date of such notice. The exercise price for the second call option will be equal to the fair market value of the shares as determined by an independent appraiser. In determining the fair market value of the shares, the independent appraiser may take into consideration a number of factors including, but not limited to, discounted cash flows, valuation multiples of comparable transactions, trading multiples of comparable companies, SEBI guidelines and principles of valuation, the minority status of the shares, the contractual rights of the shares and the current market price of the shares. Based solely on the market price of HZL’s shares on the NSE on July 20, 2018 of ₹ 265 ($ 4) per share, and not including the other factors that the independent appraiser may consider, one possible estimation of the exercise price to acquire all of the GoI’s 1,247,950,590 shares in HZL would be ₹ 331,019 million ($ 5,084 million).

By a letter dated July 21, 2009, we exercised the second call option. The GoI disputes the validity of the call option and has refused to act upon it. Consequently, we invoked arbitration and filed a statement of claim. The arbitral proceedings are under progress and will be next heard on November 24, 2018.

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On January 9, 2012, we offered to acquire the GoI’s interests in HZL for ₹ 154,920 million ($ 2,379 million). We have, by way of letters dated April 10, 2012 and July 6, 2012, sought to engage with the GoI on the same terms as the offer. This offer was separate from the contested exercise of the call options, and we proposed to withdraw the ongoing litigation in relation to the contested exercise of the options should the offer be accepted. To date, the offer has not been accepted by the GoI and therefore there is no certainty that the acquisition will proceed.

Call Options over shares in BALCO

On March 2, 2001, we acquired a 51.0% interest in BALCO from the GoI for a cash consideration of ₹ 5,533 million ($ 85 million). On August 28, 2012, we entered into a shareholders’ agreement with the GoI and BALCO to regulate, among other things, the management of BALCO and dealings in BALCO’s shares. The shareholders’ agreement provides that as long as we hold at least 51.0% of the share capital of BALCO, we are entitled to appoint one more director to the board of BALCO than the GoI and are also entitled to appoint the managing director. There are various other matters reserved for approval by both the GoI and us under the shareholders’ agreement, including amendments to BALCO’s articles of association, the commencement of a new business, non-pre-emptive issues of shares or convertible debentures and the provision of loans or guarantees or security to other companies under the same management as BALCO.

Under the shareholders’ agreement, if either we or the GoI wish to sell its shares in BALCO to a third party, the selling party must first offer the shares to the other party at the same price at which it is proposing to sell the shares to the third party. The other party shall then have the right to purchase all, but not less than all, of the shares so offered. If a shareholder does not exercise its right of first refusal, it shall have a tag along right to participate in the sale pro rata and on the same terms as the selling party, except that if the sale is by the GoI by way of a public offer, the tag along right will not apply. However, a transfer of shares representing not more than 5.0% of the equity share capital of BALCO by the GoI to the employees of BALCO is not subject to such right of first refusal by us.

The GoI also granted us an option to acquire the remaining shares in BALCO held by the GoI at the time of exercise. The exercise price is the higher of:

•

the fair value of the shares on the exercise date, as determined by an independent valuer; and

•

the original sale price (₹ 49 per share) ($ 1 per share) together with interest at a rate of 14.0% per annum compounded half yearly from March 2, 2001 to the exercise date, less all dividends received by the GoI since March 2, 2001 to the exercise date.

On March 19, 2004, we exercised our option to acquire the remaining 49.0% of BALCO’s issued share capital held by the GoI at that time. Thereafter, the GoI sought several extensions to complete the sale of the shares. On June 7, 2006, the GoI contended that the clauses of the shareholders’ agreement relating to our option violated the provisions of section 111A of the Companies Act, 1956 by restricting the right of the GoI to transfer its shares and that as a result the shareholders’ agreement was null and void. The GoI has also expressed an intention to exercise its right to sell 5.0% of BALCO to BALCO employees.

Subsequently, the dispute was referred to arbitration and the arbitration tribunal rendered award rejecting our claim. We filed an application to the High Court of Delhi to set aside this award and the next date of hearing is on November 19, 2018.

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Employees

As of March 31, 2018, we had 18,146 employees. The number of employees as of March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 is as follows:


Company		Location		Primary Company Function		Total employees for the year ending March 31,
Company		Location		Primary Company Function		2016		2017		2018
Zinc
	— HZL		India		Zinc and lead production		4,652		4,421		4,383
Zinc International
	— Black Mountain		South Africa		Zinc and lead Mining		791		789		803
	— Skorpion		Namibia		Zinc and lead Mining and refining		782		708		711
	— Lisheen		Ireland		Zinc and lead Mining		33		—		—
Oil and gas	— Cairn		India		Oil and Gas		1,478		1,479		1,523
Iron Ore	— Western Cluster (Liberia)		Liberia		Iron Ore		—		—		—
	— Vedanta Limited		India		Iron Ore		2,903		2,878		2,795
Copper
	— Vedanta Limited		India		Copper smelting and refining		1,011		1,022		1,083
	— CMT		Australia		Copper mining		24		22		16
	— Fujairah Gold FZC		UAE		Precious metal refinery		49		92		87
Aluminium
	— BALCO		India		Aluminium production		2,468		2,477		2,487
	— Vedanta Limited		India		Aluminium production		2,480		3,291		3,920
Power
	— Vedanta Limited		India		Commercial power generation		109		109		109
	— TSPL		India		Commercial power generation		240		234		86
	— MALCO Energy Limited		India		Commercial power generation		75		71		20
Others							126		135		123

Total							17,221		17,728		18,146

The majority of our workforce is unionized. Employees of HZL and BALCO are members of registered trade unions such as Bharat Aluminium Mazdoor Sangh for BALCO and Hindustan Zinc Workers Federation for HZL, and are affiliated with national trade unions such as the Indian National Trade Union Congress. We believe that relations with our employees and unions are good, though we have in the past and may in the future experience strikes and industrial actions or disputes. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Our operations are subject to risks that could result in decreased production, increased cost of production and increased cost of or disruptions in transportation, which could adversely affect our revenue, results of operations and financial condition”

Our sustainable development model is integral to Vedanta Limited’s core business strategy. In addition to delivering high-quality assets and low-cost operations, it helps us conduct business in line with our values.

Our sustainable development model is made up of four pillars: responsible stewardship, building strong relationships, adding and sharing values and strategic communications. Further, we have created a sustainable development framework to help us institutionalize the sustainable development model at each of our businesses. It points to global best practice standards as well as our own policies and guidance notes for the most critical issues. We are committed to ensuring that the framework is followed and managed in all our operations and new projects as part of our sustainability journey.

During fiscal year 2018, we continued to strengthen our sustainable development framework with the release of performance standards on safety and environment. We are using the Vedanta sustainability assurance program (“VSAP”) to ensure framework compliance, including a program of audits.

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In a geographically diverse business like ours, fostering a culture of zero harm is a challenge to which we are committed and through which we will eliminate fatal accidents and harm. During fiscal year 2018, we unfortunately had seven fatal accidents. Each was investigated and reported to Vedanta Limited’s board of directors, with the lessons learned advised to all our operating businesses including action plans to prevent such incidents. We also released three new safety standards to be implemented in the Group and these were immediately included in our Vedanta sustainability assurance program and audit program. We are seeing tangible outcomes of our safety approach with an overall reduction in incidents and lost time injuries. The corporate team along with the business units are implementing various capacity building and behavioral based programs to entrench a culture of safety and risk awareness. Further, over 500,000 hours of safety training were delivered to employees and contractors during fiscal year 2018.

In fiscal year 2017, we released a tailings management standard for the Group. During an unfortunate incident, an ash dyke at our aluminum operations breached the tailings management standard in the fiscal year 2018. We immediately undertook a third party assessment of all our tailing dams and ash dykes against the Company’s standards to analyze the gaps and develop plans for corrective measures at each business.

We manage our environmental footprint to the most rigorous global standards and have developed specific objectives and targets, particularly with regard to water and energy management. We also have many control programs in place across our businesses, for example, all our operations are ISO 14001 certified; systems to reduce water and energy consumption, minimize land disturbance, minimize waste production and contain pollution are in place; Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business has developed their biodiversity action plan; and we are working on new and innovative ways to recycle waste from our operations including fly ash, red mud, phosphor and gypsum.

Insurance

We maintain property insurance which protects against losses relating to our assets arising from fire, business interruption, earthquakes or terrorism and freight insurance which protects against losses relating to the transport of our equipment, product inventory and concentrates. We do not have insurance for certain types of environmental hazards, such as pollution or other hazards arising from our disposal of waste products or fraud, which is being evaluated. The occurrence of a significant adverse event, the risks of which are not fully covered by insurance, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. Moreover, no assurance can be given that we will be able to maintain existing levels of insurance in the future at the same rates. See “Item 3. Key Information -D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business- Our insurance coverage may prove inadequate to satisfy future claims against us.”

We and our directors and officers are subject to US securities and other laws. In order to attract and retain qualified board members and executive officers, we have obtained directors’ and officers’ liability insurance. There can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain directors’ and officers’ liability insurance at a reasonable cost, or at all.

Regulatory Matters

Mining Laws

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2015 (“MMDR Amendment Act”) was promulgated on March 27, 2015 to amend The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (“MMDR Act”), the Mineral Concession Rules, 1960, as amended (“MC Rules”), and the Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 1988, as amended (“MCD Rules”), and it governs mining rights and the operations of mines in India. The MCD Rules outline the procedures for obtaining a prospecting license or the mining lease, the terms and conditions of such licenses and the model form in which they are to be issued. The GoI announced the National Mineral Policy in 1993. The MMDR Amendment Act has brought about significant changes in the legal regime for the mining sector including defining bauxite, iron ore, limestone and manganese ore as notified minerals, creation of a new category of mining license i.e. the prospecting license-cum-mining lease, grant of mining lease for a period of 50 years for all minerals other than coal, lignite and atomic minerals, establishment of District Mineral Foundation (“DMF”), auction of notified and other minerals by competitive bidding, including e-auction etc. The MMDR Act was further amended by the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 which permits the transfer of captive mine leases (granted before January 12, 2015) without having to go through an auction process and also allows the dumping of waste outside of the mining area by including dumping sites within the definition of lease area. The amendment received presidential assent on May 6, 2016.

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Grant of a Mining Lease

Only the government of the applicable state may grant a mining lease. The mining lease agreement governs the terms on which the lessee may use the land for the purpose of mining operations. If the land on which the mines are located belongs to private parties, the lessee must acquire the surface rights relating to the land from such private parties. If a private party refuses to grant the required surface rights to the lessee, the lessee is entitled to inform the state government and deposit with the state government compensation for the acquisition of the surface rights. If the state government deems that such amount is fair and reasonable, the state government has the power to order a private party to permit the lessee to enter the land and carry out such operations as may be necessary for the purpose of mining. For determining what constitutes a fair amount of compensation payable to the private party, state governments are guided by the principles of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2014 or Land Acquisition Act, which generally governs the acquisition of land by governments from private individuals. In case of land owned by the government, the surface right to operate in the lease area is granted by the government upon application as per the norms of that state government. If the mining operations in respect of any mining lease results in the displacement of any persons, the consent of such affected persons, and their resettlement and rehabilitation as well as payment of benefits in accordance with the guidelines of the applicable state government, including payment for the acquired land owned by those displaced persons, needs to be settled or obtained before the commencement of the mining project. The maximum term of a mining lease is 30 years and the minimum term is 20 years. A mining lease may be renewed for further periods of 20 years or less at the option of the lessee. The MC Rules provide that if a lessee uses the minerals for its own industry, then such lessee is generally entitled to a renewal of its mining lease for a period of 20 years, unless it applies for a lesser period. However, with the changes brought in by way of the MMDR Amendment Act, for all minerals other than coal, lignite and atomic minerals, mining leases shall now be granted for a period of 50 years. All mining leases granted for such minerals before the MMDR Amendment Act shall be valid for 50 years. On expiry of the lease, instead of being renewed, the leases shall be put up for auction. The MMDR Amendment Act specifies that any lease granted before the commencement of the MMDR Amendment Act, shall be extended: (i) up to March 31, 2030 for minerals used for captive purposes (specific end-use) and up to March 31, 2020 for minerals used for other than captive purposes, or (ii) until the completion of renewal period, or (iii) for a period of 50 years from the date of grant of such lease, whichever is later. This provision shall not apply to mining leases for which renewal has been rejected, granted, or lapsed.

Protection of the Environment

The MMDR Act also deals with the measures required to be taken by the lessee for the protection and conservation of the environment from the adverse effects of mining. The National Mining Policy emphasizes that no mining lease would be granted to any party without a proper mining plan, including an environmental plan approved and enforced by statutory authorities and which provides for controlling environmental damage, restoration of mined areas and for planting trees according to prescribed norms. The MMDR Amendment Act now also provides for the creation of a DMF and a National Mineral Exploration Trust (“NMET”). The DMF is to be established by the state government for the benefit of persons in districts affected by mining related operations. The NMET was established by the central government for regional and detailed mine exploration through Notification No. G.S.R 633(E) dated August 14, 2015. Licensees and lease holders shall pay the DMF an amount not more than one-third of the royalty prescribed by the central government, and the NMET two percent of royalty.

Labor Conditions

Working conditions of mine laborers are regulated by the Mines Act, 1952, as amended from time to time. The Act sets forth standards of work, including number of hours of work, leave requirements, medical examination, weekly days of rest, night shift requirements and other requirements to ensure the health and safety of mine workers.

Royalties

Royalties on the minerals extracted or a dead rent component, whichever is higher, are payable to the relevant state government by the lessee in accordance with the MMDR Act. The mineral royalty is payable in respect of an operating mine from which minerals are removed or consumed and is computed in accordance with a prescribed formula. The GoI has been granted broad powers to modify the royalty scheme under the MMDR Act, but may not do so more than once every three years. In addition, the lessee must pay the occupier of the surface land over the mining lease an annual compensation determined by the state government. The amount depends on whether the land is agricultural or non-agricultural.

Mines Bill

The Mines (Amendment) Bill, 2011 proposes several amendments to the Mines Act, 1952, including significant enhancement to the monetary penalties and terms of imprisonment for violations.

Oil and Gas Laws

Regulation of Exploration and Production

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) is the principal regulator of oil and natural gas exploration and production in India. The MoPNG established the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons in 1993 to promote the sound management of Indian petroleum and natural gas resources with due regard to the environmental, safety, technological and economic aspects of petroleum activities. The Directorate General of Hydrocarbons is responsible for, inter alia, ensuring correct reservoir management practices, reviewing and monitoring exploratory programs, the development plans of oil companies, and monitoring the production and the optimal utilization of gas fields.

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The MoPNG oversees the Oil Industry Safety Directorate, which develops standards for safety, fire-fighting, training programs and information dissemination, and conducts periodic safety audits of all petroleum-handling facilities. It also oversees the Oil Industry Development Board, which provides financial and other assistance for the conductive development of the oil industry. The safety standards prescribed by the Oil Industry Safety Directorate, and the safety regulations prescribed by the Directorate General of Mines Safety in respect of onshore petroleum mining installations, must be complied with.

The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948

The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948 provides for the regulation of oilfields and for the development of mineral oil resources. The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act empowers the GoI to frame rules on the granting of mining leases and petroleum exploration or prospecting licenses, the conservation and development of mineral oils, the production of oil, and the regulation of oilfields.

Petroleum Exploration License and Petroleum Mining Lease under the Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules, 1959

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules provide the framework for the granting of petroleum exploration licenses and petroleum mining leases. Rule 4 of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules prohibits the prospecting or exploitation of any activity unless a petroleum exploration license or petroleum mining lease has been granted under the Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules. A Petroleum Mining Lease entitles the lessee to an exclusive right to extract oil and gas petroleum from the relevant contract area. Petroleum Exploration Licenses and Petroleum Mining Leases are granted by the MoPNG for offshore areas and by the relevant state governments, with the prior approval of the Government, for onshore areas. In 2006, the Government amended the Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules so that a licensee or lessee is obligated to provide all data obtained under the license or lease. Such data shall be the property of the Government, provided that the licensee or lessee shall have the right to make use of such data, free of cost, for the purposes of petroleum operations under the license or lease. The Government also has the right to disclose to the public all non-proprietary data without the consent of the licensee. The Government has the sole authority to determine what is proprietary.

The Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and other Maritime Zones Act, 1976

The Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and other Maritime Zones Act, 1976 regulates the exploration and exploitation of resources of the continental shelf and exclusive economic zone.

The Essential Commodities Act, 1955

The Essential Commodities Act, 1955 makes provisions controlling the production, supply and distribution of certain essential commodities, which include petroleum and petroleum products.

The Petroleum Act, 1934 read with the Petroleum Rules, 2002

The Petroleum Act, 1934 regulates the law relating to the import, transport, storage, production, refining and blending of petroleum and other inflammable substances. The Petroleum Rules, 2002 now regulate these activities.

Mines Act, 1952 read with Oil Mines Regulation, 2017

The newly enacted Oil Mines Regulations 2017, provides for greater focus on safety and precautionary measures to be adhered in conducting the petroleum operations namely compliance with specific Oil Industry Safety Directorate standards, recommended practices, guidelines and Indian Standards, preparation and implementation of a safety management plan, carrying out safety audits in mines and additional obligations of owners, agents or managers of mines.

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act, 2006

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act, 2006 provides for the establishment of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board. The board regulates the refining, processing, storage, transportation, distribution, marketing and sale of petroleum products and natural gas (excluding production of crude oil and natural gas). It strives to protect the interests of consumers and entities engaged in specific activities relating to petroleum, petroleum products and natural gas and to ensure uninterrupted and adequate supply of petroleum, petroleum products and natural gas in all parts of the country and to promote competitive markets.

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The Petroleum and Minerals Pipelines (Acquisition of Right of User in Land) Act, 1962

The Petroleum and Minerals Pipelines (Acquisition of Right of User in Land) Act, 1962 provides the framework governing the acquisition of right of user in land for laying pipelines for the transportation of petroleum and minerals and other matters connected therewith. This law is limited to the acquisition procedure, restrictions on use of land and compensation payable to the persons interested in the land.

Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas through its notification O-32011/4/2013-ONG-I dated March 30, 2016 introduced a new exploration and licensing policy named Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (“HELP”). This is a fundamental change in the Indian oil and gas sector, which introduces a new contractual and fiscal model for the award of hydrocarbon acreages. Four main facets of HELP are: single license, open acreages, revenue sharing model and marketing and pricing freedom. The uniform license will enable the contractor to explore conventional as well as unconventional oil and gas resources including shale gas/oil, tight gas and gas hydrates under a single license. The concept of Open Acreage Policy (“OALP”) will enable exploration and production companies to choose the blocks from the designated area. Vedanta has bid for 55 Blocks under the OALP.

Marketing including pricing freedom for the gas to be produced from Discoveries in Deepwater, Ultra Deepwater and High Pressure-High Temperature areas

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas through its notification No. O-22013/27/2012-ONG-D-V(Vol-II) dated March 21, 2016 introduced the policy for marketing including pricing freedom for the gas to be produced from discoveries in deepwater, ultra-deepwater and high pressure temperature areas. This policy is applicable to all discoveries in deep water/ultra-deep water/high temperature-high pressure areas which are yet to commence commercial production as of January 1, 2016 and to all future discoveries in such areas. As per the policy the producers will be allowed marketing freedom including pricing freedom subject to a ceiling price on the basis of landed price of alternative fuels.

Regulations pertaining to our oil and gas blocks located in South Africa

Petroleum Resources Development Act - South Africa

The Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act is the law governing exploitation of minerals and petroleum in South Africa. An exploration license has been granted to Cairn South Africa Pty Limited for exploration of petroleum resources in South Africa under the law. Petroleum Agency SA (“PASA”) is the nodal agency for all approvals. Cairn South Africa Pty Limited has not yet entered into the second phase of exploration, and accordingly the Deed for extension has not been executed. PASA has notified that the exploration right has expired.

Environmental Laws

Our business is subject to environmental laws and regulations. The applicability of these laws and regulations varies from operation to operation and depends on jurisdiction in which we operate. Our operations require environmental and other permits covering, amongst other things, water use and discharges, stream diversions, solid waste disposal and air and other emissions. Major environmental laws applicable to our operations include The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, or Forest Act and the Forest Conservation Rules, 2003, Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989, Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, The Coal Mines (Nationalization) Act, 1973, or Coal Nationalization Act, Coking Coal Mines (Nationalization) Act, 1972, Coal Mines (Taking Over of Management) Act, 1973, Coking Coal Mines (Emergency Provision) Act, 1971, Coal Bearing Areas (Acquisition and Development) Act, 1957, Coal Mines (Conservation and Development) Act, 1974 and the New Coal Distribution Policy, 2007.

The Environmental Protection Act, 1986, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 provide for the prevention, control and abatement of pollution. Pollution control boards have been set up in states in India to exercise the powers under these statutes for the purpose of preventing and controlling pollution. Companies must obtain the clearance of state pollution control boards before emitting or discharging effluents into the environment. All new projects or activities and expansion and modernization of existing projects, require an environment clearance.

The Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989 define waste oil and oil emulsions as hazardous wastes and impose an obligation on each occupier and operator of any facility generating hazardous waste to dispose of such hazardous wastes properly. It also imposes obligations in respect of the collection, treatment and storage of hazardous wastes. Each occupier and operator of any facility generating hazardous waste is required to obtain an approval from the relevant state Pollution Control Board for collecting, storing and treating the hazardous waste.

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In addition, the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 provides for liability in respect of loss or damage caused outside the ship by contamination resulting from the escape or discharge of oil from the ship, wherever such escape or discharge occurs.

Power Sector

Licensing Requirements

Under the Electricity Act, 2003 (“Electricity Act”), the transmission, distribution of, and trading in electricity require licenses from the appropriate Central or State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (respectively, “CERCs” and “SERCs”, and collectively, “ERCs”), unless exempted, however generation of electricity does not require a license.

Employment and Labor Laws

We are subject to various labor, health and safety laws which govern the terms of employment of our laborers at our mining and manufacturing facilities, their working conditions, the benefits available to them and the general relationship between our management and such laborers. These include the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, Factories Act, 1948, Contract Labor (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970, Employee State Insurance Act, 1948, Payment of Wages Act, 1936, Minimum Wages Act, 1948, Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923, Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, Payment of Bonus Act, 1965, and Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952.

Other Laws

The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, or Land Acquisition Act.

The Land Acquisition Act was notified with effect from January 1, 2014. The law replaces the 120 year old legislation the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 and is a unified legislation for acquisition of land and adequate rehabilitation mechanisms for all affected persons. As per the provisions of the Land Acquisition Act, the central government or appropriate state government is empowered to acquire any land from private persons for ‘public purpose’ subject to payment of compensation to the persons from whom the land is so acquired. There is also a mandatory requirement under the Act for social impact assessment accompanying every land acquisition, to consider the social costs and benefits arising of such acquisition and a participative process has been prescribed for such acquisition by imposing the condition of obtaining consent of the requisite majority prescribed under the Act i.e. consent of up to 80% of people whose land is acquired for private projects and of 70% of the landowners in the case of public-private partnership projects and discussions and objections at every stage of the acquisition proceedings. It also provides for compensation as high as four times more than the existing practice in rural areas and two times in urban areas. In December 2014, an ordinance (The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (Amendment) Ordinance, 2014) was promulgated to amend the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. The ordinance was re-promulgated in a modified form in April 2015, and again in May 2015. Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015 was introduced in Lok Sabha on May 11, 2015 to replace the April ordinance and was referred to a joint Parliamentary Committee for detailed examination.

Companies Act, 1956 and Companies Act, 2013

The Companies Act, 2013 to replace the Companies Act, 1956 which currently governs the formation, financing, functioning and winding up of companies, received assent in August 2013 and the 470 section legislation has been partially notified. The Companies Act, 2013 seeks to consolidate and amend the law relating to the companies and intends to improve corporate governance and to further strengthen regulations for corporates. The major features introduced by the 2013 Act include formulation of a corporate social responsibility policy and spending towards such activities, increased responsibility of independent directors and setting up of a National Financial Reporting Authority. Some new concepts such as one-person company, small companies, dormant company, class action suits, and registered valuers have also been included.

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C. Organizational Structure

The following diagram summarizes the corporate structure of our consolidated group of companies and our relationship with Vedanta and other key entities as of March 31, 2018:

LOGO

*50% of the share in the RJ Block is held by a subsidiary of Vedanta Ltd

(1)	We have exercised the second call option to acquire the GoI’s remaining ownership interest in HZL on July 21, 2009 although the exercise is currently subject to dispute. See “— B. Business Overview — Our Business — Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO” for more information.

(2)

We have exercised our option to acquire the remaining 49.0% of BALCO owned by the GoI on March 19, 2004. The exercise of this option has been contested by the GoI. The GoI has the right and has expressed an intention to sell 5.0% of BALCO to BALCO employees. See “— B. Business Overview — Our Business — Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO” for more information.

The principal members of our consolidated group of companies are as follows:

Vedanta Limited. The company was originally incorporated in Goa on February 5, 1954 under the Portuguese Commercial Code as a private limited company and on June 25, 1965 under the name “Sesa Goa Private limited” under the Companies Act 1956. It became a public limited company on April 16, 1981 pursuant to fresh certificate of incorporation issued by the Registrar of Companies, Goa, Daman and Diu. Thereafter the name of the company was changed from “Sesa Goa Limited” to “Sesa Sterlite Limited” pursuant to a fresh certificate of incorporation issued by the Registrar of Companies on September 18, 2013 pursuant to the Re-organization Transactions and the name of the Company changed from “Sesa Sterlite Limited” to Vedanta Limited pursuant to a fresh certificate of incorporation issued by the Registrar of Companies on April 21, 2015. Our ADSs are listed on the NYSE. Vedanta, through its subsidiaries, owned 50.1 % of our issued share capital as on March 31, 2018, and controls our management. The remainder of our share capital i.e. 49.9% is held by PTC Cables Private Limited, Tax Recovery Officer, Life Insurance Corporation of India, Employee benefit trust and other institutional and public shareholders. Vedanta Limited and Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) announced the Cairn India Merger which became operative on April 11, 2017. All substantive approvals for effecting the merger of Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) with Vedanta Limited were received on March 27, 2017.

BALCO. BALCO is incorporated in New Delhi, State of Delhi, India and is headquartered at Korba in the State of Chhattisgarh. We own 51.0% of BALCO’s share capital and have management control of the company. The GoI owns the remaining 49.0%. We exercised an option to acquire the GoI’s remaining ownership interest in BALCO on March 19, 2004, which has been contested by the GoI. Further, the GoI retains the right and has expressed an intention to sell 5.0% of BALCO to BALCO employees. See “—B. Business Overview—Our Business—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO” for more information. BALCO owns and operates our aluminium business.

HZL. HZL is incorporated in Jaipur, State of Rajasthan, India and is headquartered in Udaipur in Rajasthan. HZL is listed on the NSE and BSE. We own 64.9% of HZL’s share capital through our wholly-owned subsidiary SOVL. SOVL was merged into SIIL with effect from April 1, 2011 pursuant to a merger approved by the High Court of Madras. The remainder of HZL’s share capital is owned by the GoI (29.5%) and institutional and public shareholders and employees of HZL (5.6%). We have management control of HZL, which owns and operates our zinc business, and a call option to acquire the GoI’s remaining ownership interest at a fair market value to be determined by an independent appraiser. We have exercised the second call option to acquire the GoI’s remaining ownership interest in HZL although the exercise is currently subject to dispute. See “- B. Business Overview—Our Business—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO” for more information.

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Skorpion. Skorpion, officially known as THL Zinc Namibia Holdings (Proprietary) Limited, previously Anglo Base Namibia Holdings (Proprietary) Limited, previously Ambase Exploration (Namibia) Proprietary Limited was incorporated on June 16, 1998. The company has its headquarters at the Skorpion Zinc mine site, which is situated 25 km north of Rosh Pinah Namibia. The company’s registered office is situated at 24 Orban Street, Klein Windhoek, Namibia. Vedanta Limited holds the entire share capital in the Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited. Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited is an investment holding company, which holds the entire share capital in Namzinc (Proprietary) Limited and Skorpion (Proprietary) Limited. Namzinc operates a zinc refinery, who procures oxide zinc ore from Skorpion, who in turn extracts the ore from an open pit zinc deposit.

BMM. BMM is an underground mining operation located at Aggeneys in the Northern Cape. It produces zinc, lead and copper concentrates which are predominantly exported to international customers through the port of Saldanha. The Company holds 74% and Exxaro Resources (through its wholly owned subsidiary, Exxaro Base Metals & Industrial Mineral Holdings (Pty) Ltd) holds the remaining 26.0% interest in BMM.

Talwandi Sabo Power Limited: TSPL was incorporated as a special purpose vehicle by Punjab State Power Corporation Limited for development of 1980 MW on build-own-operate basis. TSPL has a 1980 MW coal based thermal power plant facility (comprising of three units of 660 MW each) in Mansa in the state of Punjab. The first 660 MW and second 660 MW unit of the Talwandi Sabo power plant were capitalized in fiscal year 2015 and 2016 respectively. The third 660 MW unit was capitalized on September 1, 2016 after successfully completing trial runs.

Volcan is the key entity that controls us. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—A. Major Shareholders

D. Property, Plants and Equipment

See “- B. Business Overview—Our Business—Our Copper Business—‘Principal Facilities’ and ‘Projects and Developments’,” “- B. Business Overview—Our Business—Our Zinc Business—‘Principal Facilities’ and ‘Projects and Developments’,” “- B. Business Overview—Our Business—Our Aluminium Business—‘Principal Facilities’ and ‘Projects and Developments’,” and “- B. Business Overview—Our Business—Our Zinc International Business—‘Principal Facilities’ and ‘Projects and Developments’,”.

ITEM 4A.

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

Not Applicable

ITEM 5.

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

The following discussion of our business, financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report. Some of the statements in the following discussion are forward-looking statements that reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, such as those set forth under “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report. Our consolidated financial statements and the financial information discussed below have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB.

Overview

We are a diversified natural resource company engaged in exploring, extracting and processing minerals and oil and gas. We produce zinc, lead, silver, oil and gas, copper, aluminium, iron ore, glass substrate and commercial power and have a presence across India, South Africa, Namibia, U.A.E., Ireland, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Liberia. We have experienced significant growth through various expansion projects, acquisition of our zinc and aluminium businesses in 2002 and 2001 respectively, through the GoI’s disinvestment programs, the acquisition of the zinc business of Anglo American Plc in Namibia, South Africa and Ireland in fiscal year 2011, acquisition of oil and gas business in 2012 and by successfully growing our acquired businesses. We have further strengthened our presence across commodities through an all share merger with Sesa Goa in August 2013 through the Re-organization Transactions. We believe our experience in operating and expanding our business in India will allow us to capitalize on attractive growth opportunities arising from India’s large mineral reserves, relatively low cost of operations and large and inexpensive labor and talent pools.

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Our revenue increased from ₹ 639,493 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 717,207 million in fiscal year 2017, representing an increase of 12.2% and increased to ₹ 913,720 million ($ 14,033 million) in fiscal year 2018, representing an increase of 27.4%. An operating loss of ₹ 268,822 million in fiscal year 2016 decreased to an operating profit of ₹ 152,744 million in fiscal year 2017, representing a decrease of 156.8%. Operating profit for fiscal year 2018 was ₹ 223,531 million ($ 3,433 million), representing an increase of 46.3% as compared to fiscal year 2017.

The following tables are derived from our selected consolidated financial data and set forth:

•

the revenue from external customers for each of our business segments as a percentage of our revenue on a consolidated basis;

•

the operating profit for each of our business segments as a percentage of our operating profit on a consolidated basis; and

•

the segment profit for each of our business segments as a percentage of our segment profit on a consolidated basis.


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2016			2017			2018
	(in percentages)
Revenue:

Zinc – India		21.6			23.6			23.8
Zinc – International		4.0			3.1			3.8
Oil and Gas		13.5			11.4			10.4
Iron Ore		3.5			5.7			3.4
Copper		32.7			29.3			27.0
Aluminium		17.3			19.1			25.3
Power		7.1			7.7			6.0
Other		0.3			0.1			0.3

Total		100.0			100.0			100.0

Operating Profit / (loss):

Zinc – India		22.1			56.0			49.2
Zinc – International		0.3			4.8			5.5
Oil and Gas		(127.5	)		9.3			52.8
Iron Ore		(5.9	)		5.5			(22.1	)
Copper		7.3			9.8			5.1
Aluminium		0.5			7.7			4.3
Power		3.1			7.0			5.3
Other		0.1			(0.1	)		(0.1	)

Total		100.0			100.0			100.0
Segment Profit /(loss)⁽¹⁾:

Zinc – India		43.5			44.3			48.3
Zinc – International		3.0			4.3			5.6
Oil and Gas		22.2			19.0			21.3
Iron Ore		2.8			6.1			1.5
Copper		14.4			7.9			5.1
Aluminium		5.5			10.7			11.4
Power		8.2			7.6			6.6
Other		0.4			0.1			0.2

Total		100.0			100.0			100.0

Note:

(1)

Segment profit is presented as required by IFRS 8 and is calculated by adjusting depreciation, amortization and impairment from operating profit. Our segment profit may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies due to potential inconsistencies in the method of calculation. We have included our segment profit because we believe it is an indicative measure of our operating performance and is used by investors and analysts to evaluate companies in our industry. Our segment profit should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, other measures of financial performance and liquidity reported in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. We believe that the inclusion of supplementary adjustments applied in our presentation of segment profit are appropriate because we believe it is an indicative measure of our baseline performance as it excludes certain charges that our management considers to be outside of our core operating results. In addition, our segment profit is among the primary indicators that our management uses as a basis for planning and forecasting of future periods. See “Item. 3—Key Information—A. Selected Consolidated Financial Data” for a table reconciling operating profit to segment profit for the periods presented.

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Factors Affecting Results of Operations

Our results of operations are primarily affected by commodity prices, input commodity inflation and deflation, our cost of production, our production output, government policy in India and exchange rates.

Metal and Oil Prices, Copper TcRc and Power Tariff

Overview

Our results of operations are significantly affected by the commodity prices of natural resources that we produce, which are based on LME / LBMA prices in our zinc and aluminium businesses, other benchmark prices in our oil, gas and iron ore businesses and by the TcRc of copper in our copper business. The TcRc of copper, the commodity prices of the metals that we produce and the benchmark price of oil, gas and iron ore can fluctuate significantly as a result of changes in the supply of and demand for zinc, lead, silver, oil, gas, iron ore, copper and aluminium among others. While natural resources producers are unable to influence the market rate of the TcRc or commodity prices directly, events such as changes in smelting or commodity production capacities, temporary price reductions or other attempts to capture market share by individual natural resources producers including our consolidated group of companies, may have an effect on market prices. Moreover, the prices realized by us can, to some extent, be affected by the particular terms we are able to negotiate for the contractual arrangements we enter into with buyers. Price variations and market cycles, have historically influenced, and are expected to continue to influence our financial performance.

During the year ended March 31, 2018, the increase in commodity prices positively impacted our revenue and operating profit. During fiscal year 2018, average prices increased by 29.1% for zinc, 25.2% for copper, 21.2% for aluminium, 18.7% for lead, 18.3% for Brent while the average price of silver decreased by 5.0%.

Global growth and commodity demand remains volatile and emerging markets continue to be the key drivers of growth. We are well positioned to capitalize on emerging market growth with a significant portion of our assets in India and Africa. With favorable demographics and urbanization driving consumption growth in India, we are well placed to meet the growing demand. For a further discussion of global market and economic conditions and the risks to our business, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Investments in Indian Companies, Global Economic Conditions and International Operations—Global economic conditions have been unprecedented and challenging and have had, and continue to have, an adverse effect on the Indian financial markets and the Indian economy in general, which has had, and may continue to have, a material adverse effect on our business, our financial performance and the prices of our equity shares and ADSs.” Despite a series of economic and political events during the year which resulted in volatility in global markets, the commodity index was 25% higher at the end of fiscal year 2018 as a result of improved macroeconomic conditions. This global uptick was driven by resilient growth in advanced economies combined with a continued increase in growth in emerging markets. Key drivers included an increase in investment spend, supported by an improved outlook and a rise in private consumption. Commodities prices strengthened during fiscal year 2018. Both demand and supply supported the broad-based price increases. The acceleration in global growth led to an increase in demand for commodities while supply rationalization due to Chinese production cuts supported stronger commodity prices.

Zinc and Aluminium

The revenue of our zinc and aluminium businesses fluctuate based on the volume of our sales and the respective LME prices of zinc, lead and aluminium and the LBMA price of silver. Our zinc business is fully integrated and its profitability is dependent upon the difference between the LME price of zinc and lead, LBMA price of silver and our cost of production, which includes the costs of mining and smelting. For the portion of our aluminium business where the bauxite is sourced from BALCO’s own bauxite mines, profitability is dependent upon the LME price of aluminium less our cost of production, which includes the costs of bauxite mining or purchase of bauxite from third parties, transportation costs, the refining of bauxite into alumina and the smelting of alumina into aluminium. For the portion of our aluminium business where alumina is sourced from third parties, profitability is dependent upon the LME price of aluminium less the cost of the sourced alumina and our cost of production.

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During fiscal year 2018, 66.0% of BALCO’s alumina requirement and 61.8% of our Odisha Aluminium business’ alumina requirement were imported from third parties, with the rest supplied by our Lanjigarh alumina refinery. The following table sets forth the daily average zinc and aluminium LME prices for each of the last three fiscal years:


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2016		2017		2018
	(in US dollars per ton/ounce)
Zinc LME		1,829		2,368		3,057
Aluminium LME		1,590		1,688		2,046
Lead LME		1,768		2,005		2,379
Silver LBMA *		15.2		17.8		16.9

*	silver is denominated in $/ ounce

Crude oil and natural gas

Movements in the price of crude oil and discounts to oil prices based on quality parameters significantly affect oil and gas business results of operations and declines in crude oil prices may adversely affect our revenues and profits. Historically, international prices for oil have been volatile and have fluctuated widely due to many factors that are beyond our control, including, but not limited to overall economic conditions, supply and demand dynamics for crude oil and natural gas, political developments, the ability of petroleum producing nations to set and maintain production levels and prices, the price and availability of other energy sources and weather conditions. Lower oil prices may also reduce the economic viability of planned projects planned or those in early stages of development.

The following table sets out the average price of Brent, an international benchmark oil blend, according to the US Energy Information Administration, for each of last three fiscal years:

For the Year Ended March 31,

2016

2017

2018

(US$ per barrel)

European Brent

47.5

48.6

57.5

Realization discount to Brent

The prices of various crude oil are based upon the price of the key benchmark crude oil such as Dated Brent, West Texas Intermediate, and Dubai/Oman. The crude oil prices move based upon market factors such as demand and supply. The regional producers price their crude oil on a premium or discount over the benchmark crude oil based upon differences in quality and competitiveness of various grades.

For Rajasthan and Cambay blocks, the crude oil is benchmarked to Bonny Light, a West African low sulphur crude oil that is frequently traded in the region, with appropriate adjustments for crude quality. For fiscal year 2018, the discount to Dated Brent averaged $ 7.2/bbl for Rajasthan and $ 1.2/bbl for Cambay, due to the prevailing oil market conditions. Dated Brent reflects the values of North Sea cargo loading within the next 10-25 days, it incorporates the Brent, Forties, Oseberg and Ekofisk crude oil with the most competitive grade setting the price. European Brent spot prices and dated Brent prices are almost similar.

With effect from April 1, 2018, Ravva crude benchmark has been changed from Tapis and Minas crude grades (South Asian Crudes) to Bonny Light and the discount averaged $ 1.8 per bbl to Dated Brent in fiscal year 2018. The crude oil price benchmarks are based on crude oil sales agreements. Movements in the discount range affect our revenue realization and any increase in quality differentials may adversely impact our revenues and profits.

Iron Ore

The revenue of the iron ore business fluctuates based on the volume of sales and the market price of iron ore. The prices for iron ore are significantly dependent on the global and regional imbalances between the demand and supply of iron ore, worldwide steel-making capacity and transportation costs. The profitability of the iron ore business is dependent on its selling price, grade and cost of production which includes cost of extracting, processing iron ore and royalty.

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The following table sets forth the daily average iron ore prices (62% iron) for each of the last three fiscal years:


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2016		2017		2018
	(in US dollar per dmt)
China imported iron ore fines (62% iron, cost and freight Tianjin Port)	$	51.5	$	67.8	$	68.4

Copper

The revenue of our copper business fluctuates based on the volume of our sales and the LME price of copper. However, as our copper business is primarily one of custom smelting and refining, the profitability of our copper business is significantly dependent upon the market rate of the TcRc. We purchase copper concentrate at the LME linked price for the relevant quotational period less a TcRc that we negotiate with our suppliers but which is influenced by the prevailing market rate for the TcRc. The market rate for the TcRc is significantly dependent upon the availability of copper concentrate, worldwide copper smelting capacity and transportation costs. The TcRc that we are able to negotiate is also substantially influenced by the TcRc terms established by certain large Japanese custom smelters. The profitability of our copper business as to the portion of our copper business where we source copper concentrate from third parties, which accounted for 99.02% of our copper concentrate requirements during fiscal year 2018, is thus dependent upon the amount by which the TcRc we are able to negotiate exceeds our smelting and refining costs. The profitability of our copper operations is also affected by the prices we receive upon the sale of by-products, such as sulphuric acid and gypsum and precious metals, which are generated during the copper smelting and refining process. The prices we receive for by-products can vary significantly, including as a result of changes in supply and demand and local market factors in the location the by-product is produced. The following table sets forth the average TcRc that we have realized for each of the last three fiscal years:

For the Year Ended March 31,

2016

2017

2018

(in US cents per pound)

Copper TcRc

24.1

22.4

21.3

For the Year Ended March 31,

2016

2017

2018

(in US dollars per ton)

Copper LME

5,211

5,152

6,451

Power

Under the Electricity Act, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission or the CERC determines tariffs for the supply of electricity by a generating company. In case of shortage of electricity supply, the CERC may fix the minimum and maximum tariff for sale or purchase of electricity, pursuant to an agreement entered into between a generating company and licensees, for up to one year. Under the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Power, the determination of the tariff for a particular project depends on the mode of participation in the project (i) through signing a memorandum of understanding, based on tariff principles prescribed by CERC (cost plus basis, comprising capacity charge, energy charge, unscheduled interchange charge and incentive payments) or (ii) competitive bidding, where the tariff is market based.

Our tariffs are based on the memorandum of understanding route for contracted quantity. The tariff for supply of power from our Jharsuguda power plant to GRIDCO according to the PPA is determined on the basis of principles laid down under the tariff regulation notified by the CERC. The MALCO plant has been put under care and maintenance from May 26, 2017. In case of our 1980 MW thermal power plant at Talwandi Sabo, the project was set up through a tariff based competitive bidding process and therefore the capacity charges and efficiency have been determined in line with the bidding process and in accordance with guidelines set out in the PPA with Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (“PSPCL”). Fuel cost subject to quoted efficiency will be a pass-through. Further, surplus power sold to multiple customers is based on the pricing determined by demand and supply of the power markets. The average power realization price (excluding TSPL) for the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2018 was ₹ 2.8 and ₹ 2.9 per unit respectively. The average power realization price for TSPL for the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2018 was ₹ 3.3 and ₹ 3.5 respectively per unit based on Plant Availability Factor. In fiscal year 2016, Jharsuguda power unit of 2400 MW was part of power business in which there was an option for sale in open access. Since April 2016, 1800 MW (three units of 600 MW each) has been converted to CPP in aluminium business. Balance IPP 600 MW power supply does not include open access therefore there is decrease in power rate realization based on PPA rate under long term contract.

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India Market Premium

Generally, our products in India are sold at a premium to the LME market price due to a number of factors including the customs duties levied on imports by the GoI, the costs to transport metals to India and regional market conditions. See “Government Policy.” As a result, we endeavor to sell large quantities of our products in India.

Hedging

We engage in hedging strategies to a limited extent to partially mitigate our exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices, as further described in Note 23 “Financial Instruments” in the Notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Costs of Production

Our results of operations are, to a significant degree, dependent upon our ability to efficiently run our operations and maintain low costs of production. Efficiencies relating to recovery of metal from the ore, oil and gas extraction, process improvements, by-product management and increasing productivity help drive our costs down. Costs associated with mining and metal production include energy costs, ore extraction and processing costs at our captive mines, labor costs and other manufacturing expenses. Costs of production also include cost of alumina for our aluminium business.

The cost of production of our oil and gas business include expenditure incurred towards the production of crude oil and natural gas including statutory levies, such as cess, royalties (excluding the Rajasthan block) and production payments payable pursuant to the production sharing contracts. Cess forms a major component of the cost of production and any change in the rate of the cess will impact the result of the operations.

The cost of production of copper for our custom smelting and refining operations consists of cost of converting copper concentrate into copper cathodes, but does not include the cost of copper concentrate. We purchase copper concentrate at the LME price for copper metal for the relevant quotational period less a TcRc that we negotiate with our suppliers, but which is influenced by the prevailing market rate for the TcRc. We attempt to make the LME price a pass through for us as both the copper concentrate purchases and sales of finished copper products are based on LME prices. The profitability of the copper custom smelting and refining business is therefore dependent upon the amount by which the TcRc that we negotiate with our external suppliers exceeds our smelting and refining costs.

Energy cost is the most significant component of the cost of production in our metal production businesses. Most of our power requirements are met by captive power plants, which are primarily coal fueled. Thermal coal, diesel fuel and fuel oil, which are used to operate our power plants, and metallurgical coke, which is used in the zinc smelting process, are currently sourced from a combination of long term and spot contracts. Our iron ore business meets its power requirement through its 60 MW captive power plant and from the grid run by the electricity department of the government and in the event the requirement of power is not satisfied through the grid, then we use generators. Our aluminium business, which has high energy consumption due to the power intensive nature of aluminium smelting operation, sources approximately 40% of its thermal coal requirement through linkage route from Mahanadi Coalfields Limited and South Eastern Coal Fields Limited, subsidiaries of Coal India Limited. We entered into five-year supply agreements in 2008 for five units of 135 MW each, in 2009 for two additional units of 135 MW each and in 2014 for additional two units of 135 MW each for the Jharsuguda 1,215 MW captive power plant. The remaining coal is sourced through open market purchases and imports. The contract entered in 2008 was further renewed in 2014 until 2018 and two agreements were renewed in 2014 until 2019. Shortages of domestic coal requires a greater amount of higher priced imported coal be utilized. During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2015, BALCO was successful in securing one coal mine in coal block auctions conducted by the GoI, namely the Chotia coal block. The total reserves at the Chotia block are 17.2 million tons, with the annual production capacity of one million tons.

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For our zinc and iron ore business and the portion of our aluminium business where we source the ore from our own mines, ore extraction and processing costs affect our cost of production. In our iron ore businesses, the ore extraction and processing costs to produce concentrates are generally a small percentage of our overall cost of production of the finished metals. In our aluminium business, the bauxite ore extraction cost is not significant but the refining cost to produce alumina from bauxite ore including transportation costs represents approximately one-third of the cost of production of aluminium. In iron ore, logistics represents approximately 25 % to 30 % of the total cost of production in the case of exports. In addition, a significant cost of production in our zinc and iron ore business is the royalty that HZL pays on the lead-zinc ore that is mined, which royalty is a function of the LME prices of zinc and lead and the iron ore pays on extraction of iron ore at the rate declared by the Indian Bureau of Mines. See “Government Policy—Taxes, royalties and cess payments.”

In the commercial power generation business, production costs are primarily coal costs and the coal is largely sourced from the domestic market. Labor costs are principally a function of the number of employees and increases in compensation from time to time. Improvements in labor productivity in recent years have resulted in a decrease in the per unit labor costs.

We outsource a majority of BALCO’s mining operations, a substantial portion of HZL’s and iron ore’s mining operations, oil and gas operations and a limited number of functions at our copper, zinc and aluminium smelting operations to third party contractors. The operations and maintenance activities at the Jharsuguda 2400 MW power facilities, BALCO’s 1200 MW and 540 MW and TSPL 1980 MW power facilities are substantially outsourced to third party contractors.

Other manufacturing expenses include, among other things, additional materials and consumables that are used in the production processes and routine maintenance to sustain ongoing operations. None of these represents a significant portion of our costs of production.

Cost of production as reported for our metal products includes an offset for any amounts we receive upon the sale of the by-products from the refining or smelting processes. We present costs of production for our metal products on the following basis: (i) cost of production before by-product revenue, which represents the direct costs relating to production and conversion costs of metal (such as energy costs, ore extraction costs and processing costs at our captive mines, labor costs and other manufacturing expenses); excluding depreciation, impairment charges and finance costs, and (ii) cost of production net of by-product revenues which represents cost of production before by-product revenue offset by any amounts we receive upon sale of by-products from such operations. Offsetting by-product revenues is useful to the management and investors to compare our cost competitiveness with our peers in the industry as it is a common metric used by our peers in the industry. Cost of production before by-product revenue and net of by-product revenue is divided by the daily average exchange rate for the year to calculate US dollar cost of production per lb or per ton of metal as reported.

The following table sets forth our average realized TcRc and cost of production for each of our metals, power, oil and gas for each of the last three fiscal years:


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	Unit of Measurement	2016		2017		2018
	(in US dollars per ton, except as indicated)
TcRc ⁽¹⁾	¢/lb		24.1		22.4		21.3

Cost of production before by-product revenue⁽²⁾
Zinc India⁽³⁾	$		1,151		1,259		1,479
Zinc International⁽⁴⁾	$		1,548		1,610		1,875
Oil and Gas⁽⁵⁾	$/boe		21.8		20.4		21.5
Iron ore⁽⁶⁾	$		24.6		18.0		21.9
Copper smelting and refining⁽⁷⁾	¢/lb		11.3		11.9		14.1
Aluminium⁽⁸⁾	$		1,589		1,466		1,888
Power – Jharsuguda 600 MW plant	₹/unit		2.1		2.0		2.8

Cost of production net of by-product revenue⁽²⁾
Zinc India⁽³⁾	$		1,046		1,154		1,365
Zinc International⁽⁴⁾	$		1,432		1,417		1,603
Oil and Gas⁽⁵⁾	$/boe		21.8		20.4		21.5
Iron ore⁽⁶⁾	$		24.6		18.0		21.9
Copper smelting and refining⁽⁷⁾	¢/lb		3.2		5.0		5.7
Aluminium⁽⁸⁾	$		1,573		1,463		1,887
Power - Jharsuguda 600 MW plant	₹/unit		2.1		2.0		2.8

Notes:

(1)	Represents our average realized TcRc for the year.

(2)

Cost of production per unit is not a recognized measure under IFRS as issued by the IASB. We have included cost of production as it is a key performance indicator used by the management to assess the performance of our operations. We also believe it is a measure used by investors and analysts to evaluate companies in our industry. Our results of operations are, to a significant degree, dependent upon our ability to efficiently run our operations and maintain low costs of production. Efficiencies relating to recovery of metal from the ore, process improvements, by-product management and increasing productivity help drive our costs down. Our computation of cost of production should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for other measures of financial performance and liquidity reported in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. Cost of production is a measure intended for monitoring the operating performance of our operations. This measure is presented by other metal companies, though our measure may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

133

(3)

Cost of production of zinc before by-product revenue increased from ₹ 84,441 per ton for fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 95,288 per ton for fiscal year 2018. The increase was primarily driven by higher input commodity prices (primarily imported coal, diesel and metallurgical coke), lower overall grades due to change in mine mix and higher royalty due to higher LME. Royalty rates for zinc and lead in India are the highest in the world and much higher compared to other base metals. In addition, a further amount of royalty was provided with effect from January 12, 2015 for District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET), DMF contribution has now been notified at 30% of the base royalty rate. The increase is also driven by clean energy cess, electricity duty and other taxes. The cost of production of zinc net of by-product revenue increased from ₹ 77,391 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 87,971 per ton in fiscal year 2018. The increase was due to increase in costs as explained above and lower acid price realisation.

(4)

Cost of production net of by-product credit increased from $ 1,417 per ton to $ 1,603 per ton, an increase of 13.1%. This was primarily driven by higher stripping cost of Pit 112 due to early ore production at Skorpion, higher maintenance cost and lower copper credit at BMM and unfavourable local currency appreciation. Higher cost of production is partly offset by better energy cost and TcRc savings.

(5)	Cost of production for oil and gas, increased to $ 21.5 per net boe in fiscal year 2018 from $ 20.4 per net boe in fiscal year 2017, primarily on account of increased cess on ad-valorem basis.

(6)	Cost of production for iron ore, increased to $ 21.9 per ton in fiscal year 2018 from $ 18.0 in fiscal year 2017. This was primarily due to lower production from Goa due to low pricing environment.

(7)

Cost of production, when compared before offsetting the by-product and free copper revenue increased by 2.2 ¢/lb to 14.1¢/lb from 11.9 ¢/lb in fiscal year 2017, primarily due to increased coal and petro prices. When computed net of by-product and free copper revenue, the cost 5.0 ¢/lb in fiscal year 2017 increased to 5.7 ¢/lb in fiscal year 2018, primarily due to higher coal and fuel prices and currency appreciation which was partially offset by higher by-product credits.

(8)

Cost of production before adjusting by-product revenue increased from ₹ 98,379 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 121,649 per ton in fiscal year 2018. The increase was primarily due to input commodity inflation (imported alumina and carbon), higher power cost due to coal shortage and currency appreciation. The cost of production net of by-product credit increased from ₹ 98,147 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 121,595 per ton in fiscal year 2018, primarily due to the reasons discussed above.

We present below the cost of production for our metal products on the following basis:

(i) cost of production before by-product revenue, which represents the direct costs relating to production and conversion costs of metal (such as energy costs, ore extraction costs and processing costs at our captive mines, labor costs and other manufacturing expenses), excluding depreciation, impairment charges and finance costs, and

(ii) cost of production net of by-product revenues which represents cost of production before by-product revenue offset by any amounts we receive upon sale of by-products from such operations. Offsetting by-product revenues is useful to the management and investors to compare our cost competitiveness with our peers in the industry as it is a common metric used by our peers in the industry.

We explain the cost of production for each metal as set forth below:

•

In the case of Zinc India operations, where we have integrated operations from production of zinc ore to zinc metal, cost of production before by-product revenue is the cost of extracting ore and conversion of the ore into zinc metal ingots. Payment of royalty and provision towards contribution to DMF and NMET is included in determining the cost of production. Cost of production net of by-product revenue represents cost of production before by-product revenue, net of revenue earned from the by-product sulphuric acid, which is deducted from the cost of production consistent with the industry practice. The total cash cost before by-product revenue and net of by-product revenue is divided by the total number of tons of zinc metal produced to calculate the cost of production before by-product revenue and net of by-product revenue per ton of zinc metal. Our Zinc India segment primarily consists of zinc ingot production and lead is only a co-product of zinc while silver is a by-product arising from lead smelting process. Accordingly, the cost of production presented for Zinc India operations is only for zinc ingot production and the cost of production of lead and silver are not presented.

134

•

Our Zinc International operations consist of the Skorpion mine and refinery in Namibia, Black Mountain mine in South Africa and the Lisheen mine in Ireland which ceased operations in December 2015. Skorpion produces special high grade zinc ingots. As a result, the cost of production before by-product revenue with respect to the Skorpion mine consists of the total direct cost of mining zinc ore and producing zinc in the refinery through a leaching, refining and electrowinning process. Skorpion mine does not produce any material by-products. Cost of production before by-product revenue of zinc at Black Mountain mine consists of direct mining costs, concentrate costs, TcRc and direct services cost. Cost of production net of by-product revenue represents cost of production before by-product revenue, net of revenue from copper consistent with the industry practice. At Black Mountain mine lead is only a co-product of zinc while silver is a by-product of lead. Accordingly, the cost of production presented for Black Mountain mine is only for zinc production and the cost of production of lead and silver are not presented. The Lisheen mine which ceased operations in December 2015, produced zinc and lead concentrate. Therefore, the cost of production before by-product revenue with respect to the Lisheen mine consisted of direct mining costs, mill processing costs, other overhead costs, treatment charges and other direct cash costs. Cost of production net of by-product revenue represents cost of production before by-product revenue, net of revenue from lead and silver consistent with the industry practice. Royalties paid are also included in the cost of production. The total cash cost before by-product revenue and net of by-product revenue is divided by the total number of tons of zinc metal produced or zinc metal in concentrate produced to calculate the cost of production before by-product revenue and net of by-product revenue per ton of zinc metal produced or zinc metal in concentrate produced.

•

The cost of production in our oil and gas business consists of expenditure incurred towards the production of crude oil and natural gas including statutory levies, such as cess, royalties (except the Rajasthan block) and production payments payable pursuant to the production sharing contracts as well as operational expenditures such as costs relating to manpower, repairs and maintenance of facilities, power generation and fuel for such facilities, water injection, insurance, and storage, transportation and freight of crude oil and natural gas, among others. The total production cost is divided by the entitlement interest quantity of oil and gas produced to determine the cost of production per barrel of oil equivalent. Cost of production before by-product revenue and net of by-product revenue is divided by the daily average exchange rate for the year to calculate US dollar cost of production per lb or per ton of metal or per barrel of oil equivalent as reported.

•

In the case of iron ore, cost of production relates to the iron ore mining and processing cost. Payment of royalty fees and provision towards contribution to DMF and NMET are included in determining the cost of production at Goa, whereas at Karnataka iron ore business royalties are under scope of buyer. The total cost is divided by the total number of tons of iron ore produced to calculate the cost of production per ton of iron ore. Our iron ore segment also includes met coke and pig iron. However, the cost of production presented for iron ore operations does not include met coke and pig iron.

Our iron ore operations in Goa were recommenced in August 2015, after receiving necessary approvals from the state government. Our iron ore operations had been suspended till fiscal year 2015 due to the continued mining ban in the state of Goa. Our cost of production of iron ore shows a significant decrease as the cost of production of fiscal year 2016 also factors in fixed administrative costs incurred in our Goa operations and Karnataka operations which was spread over to larger production compared to last year. The Supreme Court passed its final order in the matter on February 7, 2018 wherein it set aside the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the State of Goa. The Supreme Court directed all lease holders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act.

•

In the case of copper, cost of production before by-product and free copper revenue relates only to our custom smelting and refining operations (and not for our mining operations), and consists of the cost of converting copper concentrate into copper cathodes, including the cost of freight of copper anodes from Tuticorin to Silvassa. Cost of production net of by-product and free copper revenue represents cost of production before by-product and free copper revenue, net of revenue earned from the sale of by-product, sulphuric acid and copper metal recovered in excess of paid copper metal are deducted from the cash costs, in line with the cost reporting practice of custom smelters globally. The total cash costs before by-product and free copper revenue and net of by-product and free copper revenue are divided by the total number of pounds of copper metal produced to calculate the cost of production before by-product and free copper revenue and net of by-product and free copper revenue per pound of copper metal produced. In an order dated May 23, 2018, TNPCB ordered the disconnection of electricity supply and closure of the existing copper smelter plant with immediate effect. Thereafter, the Government of Tamil Nadu, proclaiming and endorsing TNPCB’s Rejection Order, issued orders dated May 28, 2018 with a direction to seal the existing Copper Smelter plant unit permanently, without providing any prior notice.

135

•

Cost of production of aluminium includes the average cost of production in the BALCO and Odisha aluminium businesses. The cost of production before by-product revenue includes cost of purchased alumina, the cost of producing bauxite and conversion of bauxite/alumina into aluminium metal. Cost of production net of by-product revenue represents cost of production before by-product revenue, net of revenue earned from the sale of by-products, such as vanadium, which is consistent with the industry practice. The total cash cost before by-product revenue and net of by-product revenue is divided by the total quantity of hot metal produced to determine the cost of production before by-product revenue and net of by-product revenue per ton of aluminium hot metal produced. Hot metal production output is used instead of the cast metal production output disclosed elsewhere in this Annual Report in calculating this measure. This is because, the hot metal production, which excludes the value added cost of casting, is the measure generally used in the aluminium metal industry for calculating measures of cost of production.

•

Cost of production of power for Jharsuguda 600 MW power plant (and excluding 274 MW HZL power plant, the TSPL 1980 MW, the 270 MW and IPP 600 MW BALCO power plant and the 106.5 MW MALCO’s power plant) includes the cost of coal and other liquid fuels used for generating power and other overhead costs such as operating, maintenance and manpower costs. The total cost is divided by the total net units generated to calculate the cost of production per unit of energy produced.


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2014			2015			2016			2017			2018
	(₹ in millions, except Production output and Cost of production)
Zinc—India:
Segment revenue	₹	132,811		₹	144,127		₹	137,945		₹	169,400		₹	217,101
Less:
Segment profit		(68,642	)		(70,605	)		(66,970	)		(95,499	)		(122,632	)

		64,169			73,522			70,975			73,901			94,469
Less:
Cost of tolling including raw material cost		—			—			—			(3,364	)		—
Cost of intermediary product sold		(3,461	)		(3,230	)		(2,348	)		(1,771	)		—
Cost of lead metal sold		(8,115	)		(8,991	)		(10,264	)		(10,677	)		(15,027	)
Others ^(c)		(4,146	)		(6,773	)		(1,185	)		(1,347	)		(4,026	)

Total before adjusting for by-product revenues	₹	48,447		₹	54,528		₹	57,178		₹	56,743		₹	75,416

By-product revenue		(3,821	)		(4,692	)		(5,234	)		(4,737	)		(5,791	)

Total after adjusting for by-product revenues	₹	44,626		₹	49,836		₹	51,944		₹	52,006		₹	69,625

Production output (in tons)		749,167			733,805			758,938			671,987			791,461
Cost of production before by-product revenue (per ton) ^(a)	$	1,069		$	1,215		$	1,151		$	1,259		$	1,479
Cost of production net of by- Product revenue (per ton) ^(a)	$	985		$	1,111		$	1,046		$	1,154		$	1,365
Cost of production net of by- Product revenue (per ton) ^(a)	₹	59,568		₹	67,914		₹	68,442		₹	77,391		₹	87,971
Zinc—International:
Segment revenue	₹	40,156		₹	35,886		₹	25,631		₹	22,302		₹	34,458
Less: Segment profit		(12,829	)		(11,059	)		(4,561	)		(9,181	)		(14,145	)

		27,327			24,827			21,070			13,121			20,313
Less:
TcRc		4,191			4,943			3,757			973			332
Cost of lead metal sold		(4,631	)		(4,486	)		(3,859	)		(4,038	)		(3,160	)
Others ^(c)		(2,900	)		(894	)		(2,419	)		2,275			(4,027	)

Total before adjusting for by-product revenues	₹	23,987		₹	24,390		₹	18,549		₹	12,331		₹	13,458

By-product revenue		(2,464	)		(2,230	)		(1,390	)		(1,479	)		(1,950	)

Total after adjusting for by-product revenues	₹	21,522		₹	22,160		₹	17,159		₹	10,852		₹	11,508

Production output (in tons)		304,945			260,106			183,035			114,135			111,390
Cost of production before by-product revenue (per ton) ^(a)	$	1,300		$	1,533		$	1,548		$	1,610		$	1,875
Cost of production net of by-product revenue (per ton) ^(a)	$	1,167		$	1,393		$	1,432		$	1,417		$	1,603

136


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2014			2015			2016			2017			2018
	(₹ in millions, except Production output and Cost of production)
Oil and Gas
Segment revenue		187,103			146,945			86,559			82,041			95,359
Less:
Segment profit		(139,453	)		(88,671	)		(34,273	)		(40,892	)		(54,318	)

		47,650			58,274			52,286			41,149			41,041
Less:
Unsuccessful Exploration Cost		(653	)		(7,867	)		(294	)		(407	)		(1	)
Other income		379			103			176			70			—
Pre award cost		(242	)		(1	)		(71	)		—			—
Others^(c)		(5,575	)		(5,619	)		(4,606	)		(1,671	)		(273	)

Total before adjusting for by-product revenues	₹	41,560		₹	44,890		₹	47,491		₹	39,141		₹	40,767

By-product revenue		—			—			—			—			—

Total after adjusting for by-product revenues	₹	41,560		₹	44,890		₹	47,491		₹	39,141		₹	40,767

Net Production (in mmboe)		32.89			32.01			33.33			28.55			29.42
Cost of production before by-product revenue (per boe)^(a)	$	20.9		$	22.9		$	21.8		$	20.4		$	21.5
Cost of production net of by-product revenue (per boe)^(a)	$	20.9		$	22.9		$	21.8		$	20.4		$	21.5
Iron Ore
Segment revenue		16,558			19,963			22,774			41,290			31,417
Less:
Segment profit/(loss)		2,700			891			(4,367	)		(13,091	)		(3,697	)

		19,258			20,854			18,407			28,199			27,720
Less:
Cost of Intermediary product sold		(16,340	)		(15,953	)		(11,652	)		(12,880	)		(12,501	)
Export Duty		—			—			(250	)		(1	)		(1,298	)
Others ^(c)		810			214			1,810			(2,097	)		(3,969	)

Total before adjusting for by-product revenues		3,728			5,115			8,316			13,221			9,952

By-product revenue		—			—			—			—			—

Total after adjusting for by-product revenues		3,728			5,115			8,316			13,221			9,952

Production output (in million dmt)		1.51			0.62			5.17			10.9			7.1
Cost of production before by-product revenue (per dmt) ^(a)	$	40.9		$	134.9		$	24.6		$	18.0		$	21.9
Cost of production net of by-product revenue (per dmt) ^(a)	$	40.9		$	134.9		$	24.6		$	18.0		$	21.9

137


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2014			2015			2016			2017			2018
	(₹ in millions, except Production output and Cost of production)
Copper:
Segment revenue	₹	205,879		₹	226,298		₹	209,262		₹	210,176		₹	247,008
Less:
Segment profit		(11,429	)		(17,385	)		(22,205	)		(16,964	)		(12,919	)

		194,450			208,913			187,057			193,212			234,089
Less:
Purchased concentrate/rock		(182,399	)		(196,428	)		(177,067	)		(179,803	)		(221,176	)
Cost for downstream products		(3,354	)		(3,441	)		(1,533	)		(1,931	)		(2,009	)
Others ^(c):		(1,295	)		(2,220	)		(2,181	)		(4,397	)		(2,832	)

Total before adjusting for by-product and free copper revenues	₹	7,402		₹	6,824		₹	6,276		₹	7,081		₹	8,072

By-product revenues		(1,208	)		(2,215	)		(2,377	)		(2,020	)		(2,502	)
Free Copper net sale		(2,385	)		(2,559	)		(2,138	)		(2,085	)		(2,287	)

Total after adjusting for by-product and free copper revenues	₹	3,809		₹	2,050		₹	1,761		₹	2,976		₹	3,283

Production output (in tons)		294,434			362,373			384,047			402,730			403,168
Cost of production before by-product and free copper revenue ^(a)	¢/lb	18.8		¢/lb	14.0		¢/lb	11.3		¢/lb	11.9		¢/lb	14.1
Cost of production net of by-product and free copper revenue ^(a)	¢/lb	9.7		¢/lb	4.2		¢/lb	3.2		¢/lb	5.0		¢/lb	5.7
Aluminium:
Segment revenue		107,989			127,130			110,910			136,862			231,212
Less:
Segment profit		(16,131	)		(22,529	)		(8,467	)		(23,200	)		(29,158	)

		91,858			104,601			102,443			113,662			202,054
Cost for downstream products		(4,230	)		(4,611	)		(3,998	)		(4,105	)		(5,722	)
Others ^(c):		(7,540	)		(7,707	)		(7,707	)		(3,115	)		(668	)

Total before adjusting for by-product revenues	₹	80,087		₹	92,283		₹	90,738		₹	106,442		₹	195,664

By-product revenue		(281	)		(223	)		(903	)		(252	)		(76	)

Total after adjusting for by-product revenues	₹	79,807		₹	92,060		₹	89,835		₹	106,190		₹	195,588

Production output (hot metal) (in tons)		795,728			843,219			872,591			1,081,955			1,608,420
Cost of production before by-product revenue (per ton) ^(a)	$	1,664		$	1,790		$	1,589		$	1,466		$	1,888
Cost of production net of by-product (per ton) ^(a)	$	1,658		$	1,785		$	1,573		$	1,463		$	1,887
Cost of production net of by-product (per ton) ^(a)	₹	100,294		₹	109,177		₹	102,953		₹	98,147		₹	121,595

Power
Segment revenue		37,638			41,186			49,826			56,079			56,518
Less:
Segment profit		(7,429	)		(8,424	)		(12,659	)		(16,442	)		(16,688	)

		30,209			32,762			37,167			39,637			39,830

Less:
Cost of power at TSPL, BALCO, HZL and MALCO Energy		(9,456	)		(13,725	)		(19,284	)		(33,228	)		(36,139	)
Others ^(c):		(4,710	)		(3,589	)		(2,287	)		80			(381	)

Total	₹	16,043		₹	15,448		₹	15,596		₹	6,490		₹	3,310

Production output (in MU)^(b)		7,625			7,216			7,464			3,328			1,172
Cost of production before by-product revenue (per unit)	₹	2.1		₹	2.1		₹	2.1		₹	2.0		₹	2.8
Cost of production net of by-product revenue (per unit)	₹	2.1		₹	2.1		₹	2.1		₹	2.0		₹	2.8

Notes:

138

(a)	Exchange rates used in calculating cost of production were based on the daily Reserve Bank of India (“the RBI”), reference rates for the years ended March 31, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 of ₹ 60.50, ₹ 61.15, ₹ 65.46, ₹ 67.09 and ₹ 64.45 per $ 1 respectively.

(b)	Production does not include units generated from the TSPL 1980 MW, the 274 MW HZL wind power plant, the 270 MW and IPP 600 MW BALCO power plant and MALCO Energy’s 106.5 MW power plant.

(c)

“Others” include head office expenses, administration expenses, selling and distribution expenses, and exploration costs that have been expensed, changes in inventory, foreign exchange fluctuations, and expenses incurred for large corporate social responsibility initiatives undertaken, such as building hospitals and other operating income. These costs are indirect costs and not related to the direct cash cost of production and hence have been excluded from calculating cost of production.

Production Volume and Mix

Production volume has a substantial effect on our results of operations. We are generally able to sell all of the products which we produce, so the revenue generally fluctuates as a result of changes in our production volumes. Production volumes depend on our production capacities, which have increased in recent years across all of our businesses. For our mining operations, production volumes also depend upon the quality and consistency of the ore. Per unit production costs are significantly affected by changes in production volumes in that higher volumes of production generally reduce the per unit production costs. Therefore, our production volumes are a key factor in determining our overall cost competitiveness. The following table summarizes our production volumes for our primary products for the last three fiscal years:


		For the Year Ended March 31,
	Product	2016		2017		2018
		(tons except where otherwise stated)
Zinc India	Zinc		758,938		671,987		791,461
	Lead		144,919		139,008		168,247
	Silver (kilograms)		424,578		452,543		557,517
Zinc International
— Skorpion	Zinc		82,029		85,427		84,215
— BMM	Copper⁽¹⁾		4,729		5,016		4,969
	Zinc⁽¹⁾		29,272		28,708		27,175
	Lead⁽¹⁾		34,114		41,769		45,113
— Lisheen	Zinc⁽¹⁾		71,825		—		—
	Lead⁽¹⁾		8,726		—		—
Oil and gas (on net basis) ⁽²⁾
	Crude Oil (mmbbls)		32.6		28.0		28.5
	Natural Gas (bcf)		4.3		3.0		5.5
Iron ore	Saleable Ore Production (million dmt)		5.2		10.9		7.1
Copper	Copper cathode⁽³⁾		384,047		402,730		403,168
	Copper rods		210,799		207,530		202,539
Aluminium⁽²⁾	Ingots⁽⁴⁾		426,691		671,885		908,959
	Value Added Products⁽⁴⁾⁽⁵⁾		487,760		494,977		721,869
	Hot Metal		8,892		46,541		44,257
Power	Power (million units)		12,121		12,914		11,041

Notes:

(1)	Refers to mined metal content in concentrate.

(2)	While computing EI production, Ravva royalty fees have not been netted off.

(3)	Copper cathode is used as a starting material for copper rods. Approximately one ton of copper cathode is required for the production of one ton of copper rods.

(4)	Includes production capitalized in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018 of 51 kt, 142 kt and 78 kt respectively.

(5)	Value added products of Aluminium include production of billets, rods and rolled products.

139

Periodically, our facilities are shut down for planned and unplanned repairs and maintenance which temporarily reduces our production volume. In addition, the mix of products we produce can have a substantial impact on our results of operations as we have different operating margins in each of our businesses, and within each business our operating margins vary between the lower margins of primary metals and the higher margins of value-added products such as copper rods and aluminium rolled products. For example, copper cathodes are converted in our copper rod plant into copper rods, a value-added product which has a higher margin than copper cathodes. As copper rods have higher margins, we endeavor to sell as large a percentage of copper rods as possible. As the production volume of our various products fluctuate primarily based on market demand and our production capacity for such products, the percentage of our revenue from those products will also fluctuate between higher and lower margin products, which will in turn cause our operating profit and operating margins to fluctuate.

Profit Petroleum

The GoI is the owner of the hydrocarbons wherein it has assigned the responsibility to the joint operation (contractor) to explore, develop and produce the hydrocarbons. Contractor is entitled to recover out of petroleum produced, all the costs incurred according to the production sharing contracts in exploring, developing and producing the hydrocarbons, which is known as “cost petroleum”. Excess of revenue (value of hydrocarbons produced) over and above the cost incurred as above, is called “profit petroleum”, which is shared between the GoI and contractor parties as per procedure laid down in production sharing contracts.

Profit petroleum sharing between the GoI and the contractor is determined by post- tax rate of return method in case of Ravva and CB-OS/2 and on the investment multiple method in case of Rajasthan block as defined in their respective production sharing contracts.

The share of profit petroleum, in any year, is calculated for the contract or development area on the basis of the post-tax rate of return investment multiple actually achieved by the companies at the end of the preceding year for the contract/development area.

The following table summarizes the current government share of profit petroleum for various blocks and development areas:


Block/Development Area	Government share of profit petroleum as at March 31,
	2016		2017		2018
Ravva		60%		60%		60%
Cambay – Lakshmi		45%		45%		45%
Cambay – Gauri		55%		55%		55%
Cambay – CB-X		60%		60%		60%
Rajasthan – Development Area1		40%		40%		40%
Rajasthan – Development Area2		40%		40%		40%

With the increase in the operations and revenue in each block, the above mentioned percentage is subject to increase, leading to a higher government share of profit petroleum. This will have an adverse impact on our result of operations as it will lead to an increase in our share of profit petroleum expense to be paid to the GoI.

Government Policy

India Customs Duties

We sell our products in India at a premium to the LME price, due to a part to the customs duties payable on imported products. Our profitability is affected by the levels of customs duties as we price our products sold in India generally on an import-parity basis. We also pay a premium on certain raw materials that we import or which are sourced locally but which are priced on an import-parity basis as a result of customs duties, with copper concentrate, petroleum products, alumina, carbon and caustic soda being the primary examples. The following table sets forth the customs duties that were applicable for the periods indicated:


	August 13, 2013 to February 29, 2016		March 1, 2016 to Present
Copper		5.0%		5.0%
Copper concentrate		2.5%		2.5%
Zinc		5.0%		5.0%
Lead		5.0%		5.0%
Silver		10.0%		10.0%
Aluminium		5.0%		7.5%

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We are also liable to pay an additional duty of customs, countervailing duty or CVD, of 12.5% (for the period from April, 2013 to February 28, 2015, the CVD was 12%) of the assessable value and basic custom duty, which is levied on imports in India. In addition, special additional duty is also levied at a rate of 4.0% on imports in India.

Further, social welfare surcharge as a duty of customs has been introduced through the Finance Bill 2018 on imported goods at a rate of 10.0% on basic custom duty (rate of social welfare surcharge on silver is 3.0%). However, education cess and secondary education cess that was together levied at a rate of 3.0% on imported goods were abolished.

The GoI may reduce or abolish customs duties on copper and aluminium in the future, although the timing and extent of such reductions cannot be predicted. As we sell the majority of the commodities we produce in India, any further reduction in Indian tariffs on imports will decrease the premiums we receive in respect of those sales. Our profitability is dependent to a small extent on the continuation of import duties and any reduction would have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

The import duty at the rate of 2.5% is levied on copper concentrate and rock phosphate. Excise duty at the rate of 2.0% is also imposed on coal in the event cenvat credit is not availed. However, if cenvat credit is availed, then the excise duty rate on coal becomes 6%.

Goods imported for the purposes of “petroleum operations” are exempt from customs duty under Notification No 12/2012 - Customs dated 17-03-2012, sr. no. 358 and 359, condition no 42 and 43 respectively (further amended by Notification No 12/2016- Customs dated 01-03-2016, sr. no. 357A, condition no 40a). Goods which are imported for purposes other than petroleum operations such as software, IT related goods or any other material required for office purposes are liable to customs duty as per the applicable rates in force which may vary from approximately 24.0% to 27.0% depending upon the classification of goods as mentioned in the customs tariff 2016-17.

Export Incentives

The GoI provides a variety of export incentives to Indian companies. Exports of copper, aluminium and zinc from India receive assistance premiums from the GoI. Export incentives do not outweigh the Indian market price premiums. Accordingly, notwithstanding the export incentives, we endeavor to sell large quantities of our products domestically.

In fiscal years 2017 and 2018, exports accounted for 26.0% and 27.0% respectively, of our zinc India business’ revenue. The following table sets forth the export assistance premiums, as a percentage of the F.O.B value of exports, on zinc concentrate, zinc ingots and lead concentrate for the periods indicated:


	November 22, 2014 to November 11, 2016 (percentage of F.O.B value of exports)		November 11, 2016 to present (percentage of F.O.B value of exports)
Zinc concentrate		1.0%		Nil
Zinc ingots		1.9%		1.5%
Lead concentrate		1.0%		Nil

In fiscal years 2017 and 2018, exports accounted for 55.5% and 52.3%, respectively, of our copper business revenue. The following table sets forth the export assistance premiums, in the form of Marked Linked Focus Product Scheme as a percentage of the F.O.B value of exports, on copper cathode and copper rods for the period indicated:


	October 1, 2011 to March 31, 2015 (percentage of F.O.B value of exports)
Copper cathode		2.0	%
Copper rods#		2.0	%

#	Applicable for export to Czech Republic only.

Further, with effect from April 1, 2015, the New Merchandise Exports from India Scheme was introduced in place of Marked Linked Focus Product Scheme. In this scheme, no export incentive was notified for copper products.

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In fiscal years 2017 and 2018, exports accounted for 47.0% and 59.7% respectively, of our aluminium business’ revenue. The following table sets forth the export assistance premiums, as a percentage of the F.O.B value of exports, on aluminium ingots, aluminium rods and aluminium rolled products for the periods indicated:


	November 22, 2014 to November 14, 2016		November 15, 2016 to Present
Aluminium ingots		1.9%		1.0%
Aluminium rods		1.9%		1.5%
Aluminium billets		1.9%		1.0%
Aluminium rolled products		0%		1.5%

In the case of sales to specified markets (as defined herein), export assistance premiums for these products would extend to 2% of the F.O.B value of exports made to the countries specified under the Merchandise Export from India Scheme (“MEIS”). The MEIS was implemented under the Foreign Trade Policy of India in 2015-20. The purpose of this scheme is to provide Indian exporters certain incentives such as tax benefits, and thereby enhance India’s export competitiveness in certain specified markets, including, but not limited to Argentina, Austria, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Chile, and New Zealand (“specified markets”). The GoI may further reduce export incentives in the future, which would adversely affect our results of operations.

In fiscal year 2015, export assistance premiums on aluminium rolled products were eliminated and duty exemption scheme of duty free import authorization was introduced to enable duty free import of inputs required for export production pursuant to Chapter 4 of the Foreign Trade Policy whereby advance authorization for inputs and exports items was given under the Standard Input Output Norm (“SION”) policy scheme.

India export duties

The GoI levies duty on the export from India of certain products mentioned under the second schedule of the Customs Tariff Act 1975, including iron ore and concentrates, at a specified rate (ad valorem on the free on board value of exports). The GoI levied export duty on iron ore fines and lumps at a rate of 20.0% on FOB value and further increased to 30.0% with effect from December 31, 2011 to April 29, 2015. Effective from April 30, 2015, the export duty on iron ore fines with Fe content less than 58.0% is 10.0% and equal to or more than 58.0% Fe, duty rate is 30.0% and for iron ore lumps it is 30.0%. Effective from March 01, 2016, the export duty on iron ore fines and lumps with Fe content less than 58.0% is nil and equal to or more than 58.0% Fe, duty rate is 30.0%.

Taxes, royalties and cess payments

Income tax on Indian companies during fiscal year 2017 was charged at a statutory rate of 30.0% plus a surcharge of 12.0% on the tax and has an additional charge of 3.0% on the tax including surcharge, which results in an effective statutory tax rate of 34.6%. The education and secondary higher education cess has been replaced in Finance Act 2018 with health and education cess at a rate of 4.0% effective from 1 April 2018. Non-resident companies were charged at a statutory rate of 40.0% plus a surcharge of 5.0% on the tax and has an additional charge of 3.0% on the tax including surcharge, which results in an effective statutory tax rate of 43.3% during fiscal year 2018.

Profits of companies in India are subject to either regular income tax or Minimum Alternate Tax (“MAT”), whichever is greater. The effective MAT rate during fiscal year 2017 for Indian companies was 21.34% which has increased to 21.5% from April 2018. For non-resident companies the MAT rate was 20.0% of the book profit as prepared under generally accepted accounting principles in India, or Indian GAAP. The excess of amounts paid as MAT over the regular income tax amount during the year may be carried forward and applied towards regular income taxes payable in any of the succeeding fifteen years (as amended by Finance Act 2017) subject to certain conditions.

The tax rates imposed on us in respect of dividends paid in prior periods have varied. According to the Finance Act, 2014, dividend distribution tax is to be levied on gross distributable surplus amount instead of amount paid net of taxes. This has resulted in an increase in the dividend distribution tax to more than 20% from 16.995% in the earlier year. Further, the Finance Act 2015 has increased the surcharge from 10.0% to 12.0%, which results in effective tax rate of 20.35% with effect from fiscal year 2016. The Finance Act, 2018 increased the rate of cess from 3.0% to 4.0% which will result in an effective dividend distribution tax rate of 20.6% from April 1, 2018. This tax is payable by the company declaring distributing or paying the dividends. Dividends from our Indian subsidiaries to us are also subject to this tax, though we do not pay income tax upon the receipt of any such dividends. The Income Tax Act provides that if a company receives a dividend from any of its Indian subsidiaries during the year and such subsidiary has paid a tax on its dividends, then the dividend distributed by the parent company to the extent of dividend received from the Indian subsidiary shall not be subject to dividend tax.

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Previously service tax was applicable at 14.0% with effect from June 1, 2015 until July 1, 2017. Further, an additional ‘Swachh Bharat Cess” at 0.5% with effect from November 14, 2015 and “Krishi Kalyan Cess” at 0.5% with effect from June 1, 2016 on the value of taxable services were applicable until July 1, 2017. Accordingly, the effective service tax rate until July 1, 2017 was payable at 15.0%.

We paid service tax as a service provider and service recipient.

Service Provider: we paid service tax as a service provider at a rate of 12.4% to 14.5% under the following categories:

•

Business support services;

•

Oil transfer services;

•

Port services; and

•

Management consultant services.

Service Recipient- we paid service tax as a service recipient under following categories:

•

Foreign service providers: we are responsible to pay service tax directly to tax authorities in case of foreign service providers who are not having any permanent establishment in India. In case service providers having a permanent establishment in India, they are responsible to recover the applicable service taxes and pay to tax authorities. We are also paying service tax as recipient of services on the parent company overheads payable to ultimate parent company, Vedanta Resources Plc;

•

Service tax on fees payable to directors of company: We are paying service tax on the fees payable to non-executive/independent directors. The fee includes director sitting fee and/or any commission payable to the directors;

•

Other services: In case of services received from any goods transport agency and payments towards any sponsorship, we are responsible to pay service tax directly to tax authorities as per the applicable rates; and

•

Domestic Service Providers: In case of certain services received from non-company domestic service providers, liability of payment of service tax has been casted on the recipient of services with effect from July 1, 2012 under Notification No. 30/2012-service tax dated June 20, 2012 as per the applicable rates.

We paid an excise duty of 12.5% with effect from March 1, 2015 until July 1, 2017 (for the period from March 17, 2012 to February 28, 2015, the excise duty was 12% and an additional charge of 3.0% on the excise duty based on all of our domestic production intended for domestic sale up to February 28, 2015). We charged the excise duty and additional charge to our domestic customers. We paid excise duty on metallurgical coke at the rate of 6.0% and on pig iron of 12.5%. HZL paid excise duty on silver at the rate of 8.5% effective from March 1, 2016 (8.0% prior to that) and an additional charge of 3.0% on the excise duty has been eliminated with effect from March 1, 2015. Goods procured for the purposes of “Petroleum Operations” and which were exempt from customs duty were also exempt from excise duty under notification 12 /2012-Central Excise dated March 17, 2012, Sr. No 336 provided conditions as provided have been satisfied, all goods supplied under international competitive bidding and were exempt from customs duty.

Goods and Service Tax: Effective from July 1, 2017, the present indirect tax regime envisages levy of multiple federal and state taxes with respect to the operations undertaken by businesses. The transition from the previous regime to goods and service tax (“GST”) regime is a tax reform, which is aimed at addressing the existing anomalies and strengthening the concept of unified market. GST is a supply driven concept and would therefore apply on supply of goods and services. On the whole, most central and state levies (such as excise duty, service tax, CVD and special additional duty, central sales tax and value added tax have been subsumed into GST). Therefore, the existing taxable events have been replaced by a single taxable event of supply of goods and services under GST. Basic customs duty (BCD) and related customs cess continue to be applicable on import of goods.

Taxes under GST apply as follows:

•

Central goods and service tax and state goods and services tax are simultaneously levied on intra-state supply of goods and services.

•

Integrated goods and service tax are levied on imports and inter-state supply of goods and services.

•

In addition, GST compensation cess also applies on certain specified goods and services.

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The general rate of GST on our output supplies is 18.0%. However, supply of iron ore attracts GST at the rate of 5.0%, whereas silver attracts GST at 3.0%. Further, crude oil and natural gas will be subject to GST from the date to be notified by GST council and therefore, until the time GST council notifies inclusion of these products in GST, they would continue to attract existing indirect tax levies. Goods imported for the purposes of “petroleum operations” are subject to integrated goods and service tax at 5.0% as per Notification No. 50/2017-Customs, dated June 30, 2017, S.No- 404 condition no-48. BCD continues to be exempt. Similar exemption notifications for domestic procurements have been issued to tax inter-state and intra-state supplies of goods for petroleum operations at an effective rate of 5.0%. Procurement of coal attracts GST compensation cess at ₹ 400 per ton in addition to the GST rate of 5.0%. Effective July 1, 2017, CVD and SAD has been subsumed in integrated goods and service tax which is applicable at the rates as mentioned in below table:


	Integrated Goods and Service Tax rate from July 1, 2017
Copper		18.0%
Copper concentrate		5.0%
Zinc		18.0%
Lead		18.0%
Silver		3.0%
Aluminium		18.0%
Iron ore		5.0%

We are also subject to government royalties. We pay royalties to the state governments of Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Goa and Karnataka in India based on extraction of bauxite, lead-zinc and iron ore. The most significant of these is the royalty that HZL is required to pay to the state government of Rajasthan, where all of HZL’s mines are located at a rate of 10% with effect from September 01, 2014 (the rate was 8.4% from August 13, 2009 to August 31, 2014), of the zinc LME price payable on the zinc metal contained in the concentrate produced, 14.5% (the rate was 12.7% from August 13, 2009 to August 31, 2014) of the lead LME price payable on the lead metal contained in the concentrate produced and at a rate of 7.0% of silver LME price chargeable on silver-metal produced. In addition, a further amount of royalty effective from January 12, 2015, for DMF at 30% of base royalty and NMET at 2% of base royalty, has been notified. The royalties paid by BALCO on the extraction of bauxite are not material to our results of operations. The royalty payable for our iron ore business is at 15% of pit mouth value (PMV) declared by the Indian Bureau of Mines.

Royalty is also payable at Cairn to the state government of Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh for the extraction of crude oil and natural gas. We also pay cess to the GoI. Generally in respect of oil and gas operations, royalty and cess payments are made by the joint operation partners in proportion to their participating interest and are cost recoverable.

For the Rajasthan block, entire royalty payments are made by ONGC at the rate of 20.0% of well-head value for crude oil and 10% of well-head value for natural gas and are cost recoverable. Until February 2016, cess is paid at the rate of ₹ 4,500 per mt for crude oil; pursuant to amendments in the Finance Act 2016, cess is paid at the rate of 20.0% ad-valorem from March 2016 onwards. National Calamity Contingent Duty (NCCD) is paid at the rate of ₹ 50 per mt. Sales tax payments are made at the rate of 2.0% (central sales tax) on sale of both crude oil and natural gas.

For the Ravva block, royalty is ₹ 481 per mt and cess is fixed at ₹ 900 per mt on crude oil. Royalty on natural gas is 10.0% of well-head value of gas. Sales tax payments stand at 2.0% (central sales tax) or 5.0% (value added tax) on crude oil and 14.5% on natural gas.

For the Cambay block, the entire royalty and cess payments are made by ONGC and are not cost recoverable. We only participate in the payment of NCCD at the rate of ₹ 50 per mt. Sales tax payments (central sales tax) are made at a rate of 2.0% on crude oil and 15.0% (value added tax) on natural gas.

Our royalties in Zinc International business are as follows:

•

3.0% of sale value of the products for Skorpion;

•

7.0% of turnover for BMM. The royalty rate applied on the turnover is 0.5% if the adjusted earnings before interest and tax (“adjusted EBIT”) is negative, and in the event the adjusted EBIT is positive, the royalty rate applied on the turnover is 0.5% plus the rate computed at 100/9 times the adjusted EBIT upon turnover. In any event, the maximum royalty rate is capped at 7.0%; and

•

3.5% of turnover for Lisheen. The turnover is identified as gross revenue less smelter deductions, treatment charges, freight and marine insurance charges on a semi-annual basis.

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Tax Incentives

Certain businesses of the Group within India are eligible for specified tax incentives. Most of such tax exemptions are relevant for the companies operating in India. These are briefly described as under:

The location based exemption

In order to boost industrial and economic development in undeveloped regions, provided certain conditions are met, profits of newly established undertakings located in certain areas in India may benefit from a tax holiday. Such a tax holiday works to exempt 100.0% of the profits for the first five years from the commencement of the tax holiday, and 30.0% of profits for the subsequent five years. This deduction is available only for units established up to March 31, 2012. However, such undertaking would continue to be subject to the Minimum Alternative tax (‘MAT’). The Group has such types of undertakings at Haridwar and Pantnagar, which are part of HZL. In the current year, Haridwar and Pantnagar units are eligible for deduction at 30.0% of taxable profits.

Sectoral Benefit - Power Plants and Port Operations

To encourage the establishment of infrastructure certain power plants and ports have been offered income tax exemptions of upto 100.0% of profits and gains for any ten consecutive years within the 15 year period following commencement of operations subject to certain conditions. The Group currently has total operational capacity of 8.4 GW of thermal based power generation facilities and wind power capacity of 274 MW and port facilities. However, such undertakings would continue to be subject to MAT provisions. The Group has power plants which benefit from such deductions, at various locations of HZL (where such benefits has been drawn), Talwandi Sabo Power Limited, Vedanta Limited and Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (where no benefit has been drawn) and port facilities at Vizag General Cargo Berth Limited (where no benefit has been drawn).

Sectoral benefit – Oil and gas

Provided certain conditions are met, profits of newly constructed industrial undertakings engaged in the oil and gas sector may benefit from a deduction of 100% of the profits of the undertaking for a period of seven consecutive years. This deduction is only available to blocks licensed prior to March 31, 2011. However, such businesses would continue to be subject to the MAT provisions. In the Group, Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) and Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited benefited from such deductions till March 31, 2016.

Special Economic Zone – SEZ

Provided certain conditions are met, profits of newly established undertakings located in SEZ may benefit from a tax exemption. Such a tax exemptions works to 100.0% Income Tax exemption on export income for SEZ units under Section 10AA of the Income Tax Act for first 5 years, 50.0% for next 5 years thereafter and 50.0% of the ploughed back export profit for next 5 years.

Investment Allowance under Section 32 AC of the Income Tax Act

Incentive for acquisition and installation of new high value plant or machinery to manufacturing companies by providing an additional deduction of 15.0% of the actual cost of plant or machinery acquired and installed during the year. The actual cost of the new plant or machinery should exceed ₹ 250 million to be eligible for this deduction. The deduction under section 32AC is available up to financial year March 31, 2017.

In addition, the subsidiaries incorporated in Mauritius are eligible for tax credit to the extent of 80.0% of the applicable tax rate on foreign source income.

Exchange Rates

We sell commodities that are typically priced by reference to US dollar prices. However, a majority of our direct costs in our zinc, iron ore, aluminium and power businesses and our smelting and refining costs in our copper business are incurred in Indian Rupees and to a much lesser extent in Australian dollars, South African Rand and Namibian dollar. Also, all costs with respect to imported material for all our businesses are generally incurred in US dollars. As a result, an increase in the value of the US dollar compared to the Indian Rupee, and to a lesser extent the Australian dollar, South African Rand and Namibian dollar, is generally beneficial to our results of operations, except to the extent that the increase results in increased costs of copper concentrate, alumina and other imported materials for our businesses. A decrease in the value of the US dollar relative to the Indian Rupee, Australian dollar, South African Rand and Namibian dollar has the opposite effect on our results of operations. For more information on the fluctuations in the value of the Indian Rupee against the US dollar, see “Item 3A. Selected Consolidated Financial Data—Exchange Rates.”

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Critical Accounting Estimates

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. In the course of preparing these financial statements, our management has made judgments, estimates and assumptions, that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income, expenses and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of these consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the years presented. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions and conditions. For a discussion of our significant accounting policies, see Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised and future periods affected.

We believe the critical accounting estimates are those that are both important to reflect our financial condition and results and require difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.

See “Note 3. W. “Critical accounting judgments and estimation uncertainty” of Notes to the Consolidated financial statements” for a detailed discussion on the critical accounting estimates.

Results of Operations

Overview

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss

The following table is derived from our selected consolidated financial data and sets forth our historical operating results as a percentage of revenue for the periods indicated:


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2016			2017			2018
	(in percentages)
Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss:
Revenue		100.0			100.0			100.0
Cost of sales		(136.9	)		(74.5	)		(71.8	)

Gross profit		(36.9	)		25.5			28.2
Other operating income		0.7			0.7			0.6
Distribution expenses		(1.9	)		(2.3	)		(1.7	)
Administration expenses		(4.0	)		(2.6	)		(2.6	)

Operating profit		(42.1	)		21.3			24.5
Investment and other income		6.9			6.3			3.4
Finance and other costs		(9.3	)		(8.6	)		(15.5	)

Profit before taxes		(44.5	)		19.0			12.4
Income tax expense		16.1			(5.3	)		(7.3	)
Profit/(loss) for the year		(28.4	)		13.7			5.1
Profit attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent		(19.6	)		7.6			1.5
Non-controlling interest		(8.8	)		6.1			3.6

Net revenue by Geographic Location

The primary markets for our products are India and China. Other markets include number of countries mostly in the Asia, Middle East and Europe. We endeavor to sell as large a quantity of our products as possible in India due to the Indian market premium that we receive on sales in India. The following table sets forth our revenue from each of our primary markets and our revenue from each of our primary markets as a percentage of our total revenue for the periods indicated:


	2016				2017				2018
	(₹ in million)		% of revenue		(₹ in million)		% of revenue		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in millions)		% of revenue
India		443,287		69.3		441,954		61.6		528,768		8,121		57.9
China		34,556		5.4		61,179		8.5		84,138		1,292		9.2
UAE		32,759		5.1		48,070		6.7		35,028		538		3.8
Others⁽¹⁾		128,891		20.2		166,004		23.2		265,786		4,082		29.1

		639,493		100.0		717,207		100.0		913,720		14,033		100.0

Notes:

(1)	Other markets primarily include Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Qatar, South Korea, Spain, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, South Africa, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, UK, UAE, and USA.

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Customer Concentration

The following table sets forth for the periods indicated:

•

the percentage of our revenue accounted for by our 10 largest customers on a consolidated basis; and

•

for each of our segments, the percentage of the revenue of such business accounted for by the 10 largest customers of such business.


	Year Ended March 31,
	2016		(%) 2017		2018
Consolidated		25.4		30.3		28.0
Zinc – India		37.0		37.4		35.5
Zinc – International		87.6		95.9		87.3
Oil and Gas		100.0		100.0		99.1
Iron Ore		30.3		40.1		44.0
Copper		30.6		46.0		57.8
Aluminium		40.7		45.7		50.1
Power		88.0		99.1		94.1

No single customer accounted for 10.0% or more of our revenue on a consolidated basis in any of the years.

Comparison of years ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018

Revenue and Operating Profit

Consolidated

Revenue increased from ₹ 717,207 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 913,720 million ($ 14,033 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 196,513 million, or 27.4%. Revenue increased in fiscal year 2018 primarily due to the ramp up of capacities at our aluminium operations, higher volume at Zinc India and improved commodity prices partially offset by currency appreciation.

Operating profit increased from ₹ 152,744 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 223,531 million ($ 3,433 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 70,787 million or 46.3%. The increase in operating profit in fiscal year 2018 was primarily due to increase in revenue and reversal of previously recorded non-cash impairment of ₹ 93,278 million ($ 1,433 million) of oil and gas assets in fiscal year 2018 following the progress on our key growth projects. This increase was partly offset by impairment charge at our Iron ore business of ₹ 48,599 million ($ 746 million) as a result of a judgement of the Supreme Court of India cancelling all mining lease at Goa with effect from March 16, 2018. The improvement in operating profit excluding non-cash impairment was primarily due to the volume ramp up at our aluminium business, higher volume at Zinc India and cost efficiencies achieved across our businesses and improved commodity prices.

Contributing factors to our consolidated operating profit were as follows:

•

Cost of sales increased from ₹ 533,989 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 655,908 million ($ 10,074 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 121,919 million, or 22.8%. The increase is primarily due to increase in production volume at Aluminium and Zinc India business, inflation in commodity prices of alumina, coke, coal and other major consumables, increase in royalty in line with increase in commodity prices. The Company deployed several measures to optimize cost spends including clean-sheet-costing for negotiations, alternate materials, new sources of supply, improving efficiencies in logistics and quality control.

•

Other operating income increased from ₹ 5,186 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 5,373 million ($ 83 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 187 million, or 3.6%.

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•

Distribution expenses decreased from ₹ 16,361 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 15,553 million ($ 239 million) in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of ₹ 808 million, or 4.9%. As a result, distribution expense as a percentage of revenue decreased from 2.3% in fiscal year 2017 to 1.7% in fiscal year 2018. The decrease is primarily due to lower sales in iron ore business and lower spend in copper business partly offset by increase in expense in Aluminium and Zinc India business due to increase in volume.

•

Administration expenses increased from ₹ 19,299 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 24,101 million ($ 370 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 4,802 million, or 24.9% primarily due to contribution to Vedanta Medical Research Foundation and increase in insurance expense at aluminium business. As a percentage of revenue, administration expenses is marginally lower at 2.6% in fiscal year 2018 compared to 2.7% in fiscal year 2017.

Zinc India

Revenue in the Zinc India segment increased from ₹ 169,194 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 217,101 million ($ 3,334 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 47,907 million, or 28.3%. This increase was primarily driven by higher integrated metal and silver volume and higher commodity prices of zinc, lead, silver partially offset by currency appreciation. The share of mined metal production from underground mines increased to 76%. Sindesar Khurd outperformed and achieved the target of 5.0 million tons of production in fiscal year 2018 ahead of plan. Consequently, our silver production has also benefitted from higher volumes from this mine and recorded integrated production of 17.9 ounces, with a 23.2% increase year-on-year. Specifically:

•

Zinc ingot production increased from 671,987 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 791,461 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 17.8%. This increase was primarily due to higher ore production from underground mines. This increase was partly offset by lower ore production from open cast mine and decline in overall ore grades due to mine mix. Zinc ingot sales also increased in line with the higher production, from 696,000 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 792,691 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 13.9%.

•

Zinc ingot sales in the domestic market increased from 472,824 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 514,511 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 8.8%. Our domestic sales as a percentage of total sales decreased from 67.9% in fiscal year 2017 to 64.9% in fiscal year 2018. We endeavor to sell large quantities of our products domestically, where we receive an Indian market premium however due to demonetization and implementation of Goods and Service Tax Act, 2018, domestic sale were impacted in fiscal year 2018. Our export sales increased from 223,176 tons of zinc in fiscal year 2017 to 278,180 tons of zinc in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 24.6%.

•

The daily average zinc cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 2,368 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to $ 3,057 per ton in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 29.1%.

•

Lead ingot production increased from 139,008 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 168,247 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 21.0% in line with mined metal production. Lead ingot sales increased from 138,253 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 168,766 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 22.1%, is in line of increased production.

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The daily average lead cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 2,005 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to $ 2,379 per ton in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 18.7%.

•

Silver ingot production increased from 452,543 kilograms in fiscal year 2017 to 557,517 kilograms in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 23.2% on account of higher grade, conversion of inventory and higher production from Sindesar Khurd mine. Sale of silver ingots increased from 448,891 kilograms in fiscal year 2017 to 557,539 kilograms in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 24.2% in line with silver production.

•

The daily average silver London Bullion Market Association prices decreased from $ 17.8 per ounce in fiscal year 2017 to $ 16.9 per ounce in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of 5.0%.

Operating profit in the Zinc India segment increased from ₹ 85,491 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 110,016 million ($ 1,690 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 24,525 million, or 28.7 %, whereas operating margin also increased from 50.5% in fiscal year 2017 to 50.7% in fiscal year 2018. Operating profit was positively affected by higher metal volumes and higher zinc, lead and silver prices. However, these were marginally offset by higher costs of production majorly driven by input commodity inflation and Indian rupee appreciation. Operating profit is also positively impacted by ₹ 2,914 million ($ 45 million) in fiscal year 2018 related to reversal of provision of royalty (DMF) effective from January 12, 2015 in line with favorable judicial order by the Supreme Court of India on October 13, 2017. The cost of production of zinc (net of by-product revenue) increased from ₹ 77,391 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 87,971 ($ 1,351) per ton in fiscal year 2018 and cost of production of lead (net of by-product revenue) increased from ₹ 73,996 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 85,772 ($ 1,317) per ton in fiscal year 2018 due to high input raw material prices (primarily imported coal, diesel and metallurgical coke), lower overall grade due to mine mix and currency appreciation which was partially offset by higher production. An increase in depreciation by ₹ 5,003 million in fiscal year 2018 as compared to fiscal year 2017 partially offset the impact of operating profit margins.

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Zinc International

Revenue from external customers in the Zinc International segment increased from ₹ 22,302 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 34,458 million ($ 529 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 12,156 million or 54.5%. The increase in revenue was primarily due to higher sales volume and higher commodity prices of zinc and lead. Specifically:

•

Production of refined zinc metal at Skorpion registered decrease from 85,427 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 84,215 tons in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of 1,212 tons or 1.4%. This was primarily due to planned shutdown at acid plant during first quarter of fiscal year 2018.

•

Production of zinc metal in concentrate from the BMM mines decreased from 28,708 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 27,175 tons in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of 1,533 tons or 5.3%. Production of lead metal in concentrate increased from 41,769 tons to 45,113 tons, an increase of 3,344 tons or 8.0%. This overall increase in mined metal production was primarily due to better ore grades driven by improved drilling accuracy and higher recoveries from plant floatation optimization.

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The daily average zinc cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 2,368 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to $ 3,057 per ton in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 29.1%.

•

The daily average lead cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 2,005 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to $ 2,379 per ton in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 18.7%.

Operating profit in the Zinc International segment increased from ₹ 7,336 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 12,321 million ($ 189 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 4,985 million or 68.0%, largely on account of higher sales volume and higher prices of zinc and lead partly offset by higher cost of production primarily driven by higher stripping cost of Pit 112 due to early ore production at Skorpion, higher usage of purchased oxides and Sulphur at Skorpion, higher maintenance cost at BMM, lower than planned copper credits at BMM and unfavourable local currency appreciation, higher cost of production is partly offset by better energy cost and TcRc savings. Operating margin increased from 32.9% in fiscal year 2017 to 35.8%% in fiscal year 2018.

Oil and Gas Business

Revenue from external customers in the oil and gas segment increased from ₹ 82,041 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 95,359 million ($ 1,465 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 13,318 million or 16.2%. The increase in revenue was primarily contributed by higher Brent price realization partially offset by currency appreciation. Specifically:

•

The daily average Brent oil price realization increased from $ 43.3 per boe, in fiscal year 2017 to $ 50.7 per boe, in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 17.2%.

•

Entitlement interest sales increased from 77,759 boepd in fiscal year 2017 to 80,263 boepd in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 2,504 boepd or 3.2%.

Operating profit in the oil and gas segment increased from ₹ 14,205 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 117,865 million ($ 1,810 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 103,660 million, or 729.7%. The increase in operating profit was primarily due to non-cash impairment reversal of ₹ 93,278 million ($ 1,433 million) was recognized in fiscal year 2018. Sales increased by ₹ 13,318 million ($ 205 million) on account of increase in Brent price realization coupled with increase in entitlement interest sales.

Iron Ore

Revenue from external customers decreased from ₹ 40,880 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 31,154 million ($ 478 million) in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of ₹ 9,726 million, or 23.8%. The decrease was primarily due to lower production volume at Goa and Pig iron and lower realizations at Goa which was partly offset by higher realizations at Karnataka. Specifically.

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Saleable iron ore production decreased from 10.9 million tons in fiscal year 2017 to 7.1 million tons in fiscal year 2018 a decrease of 3.8 million tons due to low pricing environment. The Supreme Court of India through its judgement dated February 7, 2018 have directed us to stop all mining operations in the State of Goa with effect from March 16,2018 which has impacted our Goa operations in fiscal year 2018. As a result, our mining operations have stopped. The closing stock of 0.9 million tons will be sold in fiscal year 2019. In Karnataka, production was in line with the allocated Environmental clearance (“EC”) limits. The Supreme Court has increased the mining cap in Karnataka from 30 to 35 million ton and accordingly our mining cap limit has been increased from 2.3 to 4.5 million ton in May 2018.

•

The production of pig iron was lower by 8.8% from 708,341 tons to 645,823 tons and the production of metallurgical coke was also reduced from 481,218 tons to 442,785 tons, or by 8.0%. During the year, production of pig iron was low due to lower metallurgical coke availability because of weather related supply disruptions in Australia and a local contractor’s strike during the year.

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Operating profit in the iron ore segment decreased from ₹ 8,403 million in fiscal year 2017 to operating loss of ₹ 49,325 million ($ 758 million) in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of ₹ 57,728 million. The operating loss in fiscal year 2018 is primarily due to the impairment charge of ₹ 48,599 million ($ 746 million) pursuant to the judgement passed by Supreme Court of India on February 7, 2018 directing all mining operations in the state of Goa were to cease with effect from March 16, 2018.

Copper

Revenue from external customers increased from ₹ 210,021 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 247,008 million ($ 3,794 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 36,987 million, or 17.6%. The increase was primarily due to higher copper prices. Specifically:

•

Copper cathode production increased from 402,730 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 403,168 tons in fiscal year 2018, a marginal increase of 0.1%. In fiscal year 2018, production was at a record level, through in-house technological upgrades and debottlenecking, albeit with a few unplanned outages spread over the year. This represents consistent improvement in operational efficiencies and record production year after year. Our plant achieved average utilization of 95% throughout the year. Copper cathode sales increased from 192,200 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 200,236 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 4.2%.

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Production of copper rods decreased from 207,530 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 202,539 tons in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of 2.4%. Copper rod sales decreased from 207,073 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 202,676 tons in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of 2.1% in line with the decrease in production.

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Sales of copper in the Indian market decreased from 233,699 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 201,862 tons in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of 13.6%, and our exports increased from 165,575 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 201,080 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 21.4%. Our domestic sales as a percentage of total sales decreased from 58.5% in fiscal year 2017 to 50.1% in fiscal year 2018.

Operating profit in the copper segment decreased from ₹ 15,026 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 11,312 million ($ 174 million) in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of ₹ 3,714 million, or 24.7%. Operating margin also decreased from 7.2% in fiscal year 2017 to 4.6% in fiscal year 2018. The decrease in operating profit was primarily due to lower TcRc, lower premia, higher coal and fuel prices, currency appreciation which was partly offset by higher by-product credit. In particular:

•

TcRc rates decreased from an average of 22.4¢/lb realized in fiscal year 2017 to an average of 21.3¢/lb realized in fiscal year 2018.

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Cost of production net of by-product and free copper revenue, which consists of cost of smelting and refining costs, increased from 5.0 ¢/lb in fiscal year 2017 to 5.7 ¢/lb in fiscal year 2018, primarily due to higher coal and fuel prices, currency appreciation partly offset by higher by-product credit.

Aluminium

Revenue from external customers in the aluminium segment increased from ₹ 136,667 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 230,959 million ($ 3,547 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 94,292 million, or 69.0%. This increase was primarily due to a ramp up in volume and higher average LME prices of aluminium. Specifically:

•

Aluminium production increased from 1,213,402 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 1,675,085 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 38.0%. Production of value added products increased from 40.8% in fiscal year 2017 to 43.1% in fiscal year 2018.

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Aluminium sales increased from 1,209,416 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 1,672,424 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 38.3% in line with the ramp up of additional pots at Jharsuguda-II and complete ramp up of Korba smelter during the first quarter of fiscal year 2018. Sales of aluminium ingots increased from 676,571 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 904,800 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 33.7%. Wire rod sales increased from 323,439 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 380,878 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 17.8%, and rolled product sales increased from 17,996 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 26,606 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 47.8%. Billets sales increased from 144,871 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 315,883 tons in fiscal year 2018, representing an increase of 118.0%. Hot metal sales during fiscal year 2018 were 44,257 tons.

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•

Aluminium sales in the domestic market marginally increased from 635,951 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 673,920 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 6.0%. Our aluminium exports increased from 573,465 tons in fiscal year 2017 to 998,503 tons in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 74.1%.

•

The daily average aluminium cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 1,688 per ton in fiscal year 2017 to $ 2,046 per ton in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 21.2%.

Operating profit in the aluminium segment decreased from ₹ 11,725 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 9,566 million ($ 147 million) in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of ₹ 2,159 million or 18.4%. The decrease in operating profit was primarily due to higher input commodity inflation (primarily imported alumina and carbon), higher power cost due to disruptions in domestic coal supply from Coal India resulting procurement of coal and power from alternate sources at higher prices and Indian rupee appreciation, partly offset by higher production volume and higher sales realization resulting from an increase in average LME prices of aluminium.

Power

Revenue from external customers in the power segment decreased from ₹ 55,189 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 55,012 million ($ 845 million) in fiscal year 2018, a marginal decrease of ₹ 177 million or 0.3%. Power sales decreased from 12,914 million units in fiscal year 2017 to 11,041 million units in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of 14.5%. This was primarily due to fire incident at TSPL resulting plant shutdown for 65 days in first quarter of fiscal year 2018 and lower power sales from Jharsuguda and Balco power plant due to disruptions in domestic coal supply. Malco power plant is under care and maintenance since May 26, 2017 due to low demand in southern India. Effective from April 1, 2016, the Jharsuguda 1800 MW and BALCO 270 MW units have been moved from the power segment to the aluminium segment. Specifically:

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Talwandi Sabo power plant, operated at record 93% availability during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018 and 74% in fiscal year 2018. It supplied 7,915 million units compare to 6,339 million units in fiscal year 2017 to the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. (PSPCL) in fiscal year 2018. TSPL’s PPA with PSEB compensates according to the availability of the plant.

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The Jharsuguda 600 MW power plant operated at a lower Plant Load Factor (PLF) of 25% during fiscal year 2018, 68% in fiscal year 2017, due to disruptions in domestic coal supply.

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At BALCO, the 600 MW IPP unit of the 1200MW power plant operated at PLF of 44% in fiscal year 2018, 58% in fiscal year 2017, due to temporary coal shortage and weak power market. The second unit of 300 MW IPP commenced commercial production from May 1, 2017.

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The average power realization increased from ₹ 2.83 per unit in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 2.88 per unit in fiscal year 2018, a marginal increase of 1.9%.(excluding power from TSPL 1980 MW power plant). Since April 2016, 1800 MW (three units of 600 MW each) has been converted to CPP in aluminium business. Balance IPP 600 MW power supply does not include open access. The increase in power realization is due to better realization at Balco 600 MW IPP.

•

Cost of generation at the power business (excluding power from the TSPL 1980 MW power plant) increased from ₹ 2.1 per unit in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 2.4 in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 12.1%.

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The average power realization at Talwandi Sabo power plant increased from ₹ 3.3 per unit in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 3.5 per unit and cost of generation increased from ₹ 2.28 per unit in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 2.54 in fiscal year 2018, an increase of 11.4% due to increased coal prices and coal shortage during the year.

Operating profit in the power segment increased from ₹ 10,757 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 11,915 million ($ 183 million) in fiscal year 2018, an increase of ₹ 1,158 million or 10.8%, primarily due to one off revenue recognition of ₹ 315 million ($ 5 million) at Jharsuguda IPP and lower depreciation charge by ₹ 912 million ($ 14 million). Operating margin increased from 19.5% in fiscal year 2017 to 21.7% in fiscal year 2018.

Other

Operating loss in our other business segments decreased from ₹ 199 million in fiscal year 2017 to 139 million ($ 2 million) in fiscal year 2018 primarily due to acquisition of Avanstrate Inc (“ASI”) on December 28, 2017. The financial results of ASI from the date of acquisition to March 31, 2018 have been included in the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

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Investment and Other income

Investment and other income decreased from ₹ 45,428 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 30,986 million ($ 476 million) in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of ₹ 14,442 million or 31.8%, primarily due to lower investment and special dividend payout by HZL, deleveraging during the year, lower return on investments due to sharp rise in G-Sec yields resulting in mark-to-market losses at investments.

Finance costs

Finance costs increased from ₹ 61,600 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 141,182 million ($ 2,168 million) by ₹ 79,582 million or 129.2% in fiscal year 2018. This includes ₹ 81,315 ($ 1,249 million) million on account of reclassification of foreign currency translation reserve relating to subsidiary investment companies under liquidation and on account of the delivering of balance sheet and lower interest rates during fiscal year 2018 partially offset by dividends on preference shares issued to the shareholders of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business pursuant to the merger with the company in April 2017, interest cost on temporary borrowings at Zinc India and capitalization of pots at Aluminium business. The proportion of Indian Rupee borrowings is 93% and USD borrowing is 7% in fiscal year 2018 in comparison to 12% in fiscal year 2017.

Tax expense

Tax expense increased from ₹ 38,027 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 66,426 million ($ 1,020 million) in fiscal year 2018. Our effective income tax rate, calculated as tax expense divided by our profit or loss before taxes, was 27.8% in fiscal year 2017 as compared to credit of 58.6% in fiscal year 2018. The effective tax rate has increased by 30.8%. The tax expense has increased primarily due to increase in profits and due to phasing out of investment allowance claims, change in cess rate from 3% to 4% as per the Finance Act 2018 and change in profit mix.

Non-controlling interest

On account of above mentioned factors, profit for the year decreased from ₹ 98,545 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 46,909 million ($ 721 million) in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of ₹ 51,636 million or 52.4%.

Profit attributable to non-controlling interest decreased from ₹ 43,512 million in fiscal year 2017 to ₹ 33,204 million ($ 511 million) in fiscal year 2018, a decrease of ₹ 10,308 million or 23.7%. Non-controlling interest as a percentage of profit or loss increased from 44.2% in fiscal year 2017 to 70.8% in fiscal year 2018.

Comparison of years ended March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2017

Revenue and Operating Profit

Consolidated

Revenue increased from ₹ 639,493 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 717,207 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 77,714 million, or 12.2%. Revenue increased in fiscal year 2017 primarily due to the ramp up of capacities at our aluminium and power business, recommencement of iron ore operations and improved commodity prices.

Operating loss of ₹ 268,822 million in fiscal year 2016 turned to an operating profit of ₹ 152,744 million in fiscal year 2017. The operating profit in fiscal year 2017 was primarily due to lower amortization of ₹ 323,861 million following the impairment of oil and gas assets in fiscal year 2016, lower depreciation charges for our oil and gas business of ₹ 26,556 million due to lower entitlement interest volumes and an increase in reserves estimates and partially offset by closure of operations at Lisheen mine. These were partially offset by higher amortization of ₹ 2,450 million on account of mining expenses resulting from increased ore excavation volumes at Zinc India and higher depreciation of ₹ 3,623 million due to capitalization of new capacities at our aluminium and power business. The improvement in operating profit excluding impairment was primarily due to the volume ramp up for our aluminium and power operations, recommencement of iron ore operations, cost efficiencies achieved across our businesses and improved commodity prices.

Contributing factors to our consolidated operating profit were as follows:

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Cost of sales decreased from ₹ 875,756 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 533,989 million in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of ₹ 341,767 million, or 39.0%. The decrease is primarily due to lower impairment charge of ₹ 1,162 million in fiscal year 2017 in comparison to ₹ 339,549 million in fiscal year 2016. Cost of sales excluding impairment for fiscal year 2017 was ₹ 535,151 million, compared to cost of sales excluding impairment of ₹ 536,207 for fiscal year 2016, a decrease of ₹ 1,055 million, or 0.2%. The Company deployed several measures to optimize cost spends including clean-sheet-costing for negotiations, alternate materials, new sources of supply, improving efficiencies in logistics and quality control.

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Other operating income increased from ₹ 4,785 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 5,186 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 401.0 million, or 8.4%.

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Distribution expenses increased from ₹ 12,070 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 16,361 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 4,291 million, or 35.6%, primarily due to ramp up of iron ore following the recommencement of operations in Goa during fiscal year 2016. As a result, distribution expense as a percentage of revenue increased from 1.9% in fiscal year 2016 to 2.3% in fiscal year 2017.

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Administration expenses decreased from ₹ 25,274 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 19,299 million in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of ₹ 5,975 million, or 23.6% primarily due to lower personnel and administration expenses. As a percentage of revenue, administration expenses decreased from 4.0% in fiscal year 2016 to 2.6% in fiscal year 2017.

Zinc India

Revenue in the Zinc India segment increased from ₹ 137,945 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 169,194 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 31,249 million, or 22.7%. This increase was primarily driven by higher commodity prices of zinc, lead, silver and higher premiums realized. The increase was partially offset by lower integrated metal volumes. Our Rampura Agucha mine was in the midst of transition from open pit to underground mine production. The share of mined metal production from underground mines increased to 52%. Sindesar Khurd outperformed and achieved the target of 3.75 million tons of production in fiscal year 2017 ahead of plan. Consequently, our silver production has also benefitted from higher volumes from this mine and recorded integrated production of 14.55 ounces, with a 7.3% increase year-on-year. Specifically:

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Zinc ingot production decreased from 758,938 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 671,987 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 11.5%. This decrease was primarily due to lower availability of mined metals in the first half of fiscal year 2017, caused by the cyclical pattern of the Rampura Agucha Open cast mine plan for the year. Substantially higher mined metal production in the second half of fiscal year 2017 resulted in an increase in mined metal inventory, despite metal in concentrate sales of 26,000 tons during fourth quarter of fiscal year 2017. The closing stock of metal in concentrate was approximately 80,000 tons, which will be converted into refined metal in fiscal year 2018. Zinc ingot sales also decreased in line with the lower production, from 760,400 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 696,000 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 8.5%.

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Zinc ingot sales in the domestic market decreased from 525,763 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 472,824 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 10.1%. Our domestic sales as a percentage of total sales decreased from 69.1% in fiscal year 2016 to 67.9% in fiscal year 2017. We endeavor to sell large quantities of our products domestically, where we receive an Indian market premium. Our export sales also decreased from 234,637 tons of zinc in fiscal year 2016 to 223,176 tons of zinc in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 4.9%.

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The daily average zinc cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 1,829 per ton in fiscal year 2016 to $ 2,368 per ton in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 29.5%.

•

Lead ingot production decreased from 144,919 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 139,008 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 4.1% in line with mined metal production. Lead ingot sales decreased from 145,417 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 138,253 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 4.9%, due to a decrease in production.

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Silver ingot production increased from 424,578 kilograms in fiscal year 2016 to 452,543 kilograms in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 6.6% on account of higher grade and higher production from Sindesar Khurd mine. Sale of silver ingots increased from 425,685 kilograms in fiscal year 2016 to 448,891 kilograms in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 5.5% in line with silver production.

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The daily average lead cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 1,768 per ton in fiscal year 2016 to $ 2,005 per ton in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 13.4%.

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The daily average silver London Bullion Market Association prices increased from $ 15.2 per ounce in fiscal year 2016 to $ 17.8 per ounce in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 16.9%.

Operating profit in the Zinc India segment increased from ₹ 59,412 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 85,491 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 26,079 million, or 43.9 %, whereas operating margin also increased from 43.1% in fiscal year 2016 to 50.5% in fiscal year 2017. Operating profit was positively affected by higher zinc, lead and silver prices, higher realized premiums and Indian Rupee depreciation. However, these were marginally offset by lower metal volumes and higher costs of production. The cost of production of zinc (net of by-product revenue) increased from ₹ 68,442 per ton in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 77,391 per ton in fiscal year 2017 and cost of production of lead (net of by-product revenue) from ₹ 67,497 per ton in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 73,996 per ton in fiscal year 2017. An increase in depreciation by ₹ 10,662 million in fiscal year 2017 as compared to fiscal year 2016 partially offset the impact of operating profit margins.

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Zinc International

Revenue from external customers in the Zinc International segment decreased from ₹ 25,631 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 22,302 million in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of ₹ 3,329 million or 13.0%. The decrease in revenue was primarily due to the closure of the Lisheen mine in Ireland in December 2015 after 17 years in operation, maintenance shutdown and delay in concentrate shipment at Black Mountain Mines. This was partially offset by higher realized prices. Specifically:

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Production of refined zinc metal at Skorpion registered an increase from 82,029 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 85,427 tons in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 3,398 tons or 4.1%. This was primarily due to improved mine grades and recoveries. This was partially impacted by material handling challenges due to ore being wetter than anticipated and breakdowns at the acid plant which has undergone a 30 day maintenance shutdown in June 2017 to return to its original capacity.

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Production of zinc metal in concentrate from the Lisheen and BMM mines decreased from 101,097 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 28,708 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 71.6%. Production of lead metal in concentrate also decreased from 42,840 tons to 41,769 tons, a decrease of 1,071 tons or 2.5%. This decrease was primarily due to the closure of the Lisheen mine in December 2015 whereas BMM mined metal production was higher by 11.2% due to better ore grades and higher recoveries driven by improved efficiencies in backfill, long hole blasting and better availability of ore hoisting. During the year, we made significant progress in shifting the mining methodology from cut-and-fill method to the more effective long-hole massive mining method.

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The daily average zinc cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 1,829 per ton in fiscal year 2016 to $ 2,368 per ton in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 29.5%.

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The daily average lead cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 1,768 per ton in fiscal year 2016 to $ 2,005 per ton in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 13.4%.

Operating profit in the Zinc International segment increased from ₹ 831 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 7,336 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 6,505 million or 782.8%, largely on account of higher zinc and lead prices, lower TcRc’s, a one-off insurance claim refund at Scorpion zinc and a royalty refund at Black Mountain Mine. These were partially offset by the Lisheen mine closure and the delay of a concentrate shipment at Black Mountain Mine. Operating margin increased from 3.2% in fiscal year 2016 to 33.0%% in fiscal year 2017.

Oil and Gas Business

Revenue from external customers in the oil and gas segment decreased from ₹ 86,559 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 82,041 million in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of ₹ 4,518 million or 5.2%. The decrease in revenue was primarily contributed by the fall in entitlement interest sales volumes, which was partially offset by higher average Brent price realization and higher average exchange rate. Specifically:

•

The daily average Brent oil price realization increased from $ 40.9 per boe, in fiscal year 2016 to $ 43.3 per boe, in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 5.9%.

•

Entitlement interest sales decreased from 90,788 boepd in fiscal year 2016 to 77,759 boepd in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 13,029 boepd or 14.5%.

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Average exchange rate increased by 2.5% from ₹ 65.5 per $ 1.0 in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 67.1 per $ 1.0 in fiscal year 2017.

Operating loss in the oil and gas segment declined from ₹ 342,813 million in fiscal year 2016 to a profit of ₹ 14,205 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 357,018 million, or 104.1%. The increase in operating profit was primarily due to cost optimization initiatives taken during the year, better Brent prices, reduced cess on ad-valorem basis. In fiscal year 2016, an impairment loss of ₹ 322,998 million was charged to income statement whereas in fiscal year 2017, ₹ 845 million impairment reversal was recognised. Sales decreased by ₹ 4,518 million on account of a drop in entitlement interest sales. Depletion and decommissioning charges were lower by ₹ 26,055 million primarily due to reduction in reserves and cost to complete.

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Iron Ore

Revenue from external customers increased from ₹ 22,233 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 40,880 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 18,647 million, or 83.9%. The increase was primarily due to resumption of mining in Goa, higher iron prices and an increase in pig iron production, which was partially offset by a decrease in lower production volumes from Karnataka.

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Saleable iron ore production increased from 5.2 million tons in fiscal year 2016 to 10.9 million tons in fiscal year 2017 a sharp increase of 5.7 million tons due to the removal of a mining ban in the state of Goa during fiscal year 2016 and an additional allocation of 2.6 million tons in fiscal year 2017. In Karnataka, production recommenced on February 28, 2015, and in Goa production started slowly from August 2015 following the receipt of all requisite clearances and approvals.

•

The production of pig iron was higher by 8.2% from 654,360 tons to 708,341 tons whereas the production of metallurgical coke was reduced from 485,054 tons to 481,218 tons, or by 0.8%. During the year, production of pig iron ramped up to a record production level with higher plant availability and available rated capacity of 785,000 tons. The reduction in metallurgical coke production was primarily due to breakdown in plants.

Operating loss in the iron ore segment decreased from ₹ 15,793 million in fiscal year 2016 to an operating profit of ₹ 8,403 million in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of ₹ 24,196 million. The increase in operating profit was primarily due to the production increase from Goa, increase in pig iron volume and higher prices which was partly offset by higher metallurgical coke prices.

Copper

Revenue from external customers increased from ₹ 209,239 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 210,021 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 782.4 million, or 0.4%. This marginal increase was primarily due to higher volume, partially offset by lower prices and TcRc. Specifically:

•

Copper cathode production increased from 384,047 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 402,732 tons in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 4.9%. In fiscal year 2017, production was at a record level, through in-house technological upgrades at the refinery that raised the previous design level density of 310 ampere/m2 to 350 ampere/m2. This was partially offset by lower copper grades and a few unplanned outages spread over the year. Copper cathode sales increased from 166,957 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 192,200 tons in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 15.1%.

•

Production of copper rods decreased from 210,799 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 207,530 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 1.6%. Copper rod sales decreased from 210,285 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 207,073 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 1.5% in line with the decrease in production.

•

Sales of copper in the Indian market decreased from 238,916 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 233,699 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 2.2%, and our exports increased from 138,326 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 165,575 tons in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 19.7%. Our domestic sales as a percentage of total sales decreased from 63.3% in fiscal year 2016 to 58.5% in fiscal year 2017.

Operating profit in the copper segment decreased from ₹ 19,660 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 15,026 million in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of ₹ 4,634 million, or 23.6%. Operating margin also decreased from 9.4% in fiscal year 2016 to 7.2% in fiscal year 2017. The decrease in operating profit was primarily due to lower TcRc, higher petro prices and lower by-product credit, the clean energy cess on coal consumed in thermal power plants and a one off benefit of the target plus export incentive scheme which was recognized in fiscal year 2016. In particular:

•

TcRc rates decreased from an average of 24.1 ¢/lb realized in fiscal year 2016 to an average of 22.4 ¢/lb realized in fiscal year 2017.

•

Cost of production net of by-product and free copper revenue, which consists of cost of smelting and refining costs, increased from 3.2 ¢/lb in fiscal year 2016 to 5.0 ¢/lb in fiscal year 2017, primarily due to lower by-product credit, higher petro prices and an increased clean energy cess on coal.

Aluminium

Revenue from external customers in the aluminium segment increased from ₹ 110,781 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 136,667 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 25,886 million, or 23.4%. This increase was primarily due to a ramp up in volume and higher average LME prices of aluminium. Specifically:

•

Aluminium production increased from 923,343 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 1,213,402 tons in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 31.4%. Production of value added products decreased from 52.8% in fiscal year 2016 to 40.8% in fiscal year 2017.

155

•

Aluminium sales increased from 926,950 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 1,209,416 tons in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 30.5% in line with the increase in production from new smelter in Korba and Jharsuguda. Sales of aluminium ingots increased from 429,335 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 676,571 tons in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 57.6%. Wire rod sales decreased from 357,203 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 323,439 tons in fiscal year 2017, and rolled product sales decreased from 20,660 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 17,996 tons in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 12.9%, due to a temporary suspension of high-cost rolled product facility at BALCO in fiscal year 2016, which recommenced in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. Billets sales increased from 110,859 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 144,871 tons in fiscal year 2017, representing an increase of 30.7%. Hot metal sales during fiscal year 2017 were 46,541 tons.

•

Aluminium sales in the domestic market marginally increased from 635,192 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 635,951 tons in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 0.1%. Our aluminium exports increased from 291,758 tons in fiscal year 2016 to 573,465 tons in fiscal year 2017. Our domestic sales as a percentage of total sales decreased from 68.5% in fiscal year 2016 to 52.6% in fiscal year 2017.

•

The daily average aluminium cash settlement price on the LME increased from $ 1,590 per ton in fiscal year 2016 to $ 1,688 per ton in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 6.2%.

Operating profit in the aluminium segment increased from ₹ 1,416 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 11,725 million in fiscal year 2017, a sharp increase of ₹ 10,309 million. The increase in operating profit was primarily due to higher volume and higher sales realization resulting from an increase in average LME prices of aluminium.

Power

Revenue from external customers in the power segment increased from ₹ 45,523 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 55,189 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 9,666 million or 21.2%. Power sales increased from 12,121 million units in fiscal year 2016 to 12,915 million units in fiscal year 2017, an increase of 6.5%. This was primarily due to the commencement of additional units at TSPL and BALCO during fiscal year 2017. With these units, our entire 9,000 MW of power capacity became operational as of March 2017. Effective from April 1, 2016, the Jharsuguda 1800 MW and BALCO 270 MW units have been moved from the power segment to the aluminium segment. Specifically:

•

At the Talwandi Sabo power plant, the third 660MW unit commenced commercial production in August 2016. The operating units operated at record 85% availability and supplied 6,339 million units to the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd. (PSPCL). TSPL’s PPA with PSEB compensates according to the availability of the plant.

•

The Jharsuguda 600 MW power plant operated at a lower Plant Load Factor (PLF) of 68% during fiscal year 2017, due to a weak power market. During fiscal year 2017, power from one 600MW unit is being supplied to the grid and the remaining 1,800MW (comprising three 600 MW units) was supplied to the Jharsuguda II smelter with surplus power sold in the open market.

•

At BALCO, the 600 MW IPP unit of the 1200MW power plant operated at PLF of 58% in fiscal year 2017, due to weak power market. The second unit of 300 MW IPP commenced commercial production from May 1, 2017.

•

The average power realization decreased from ₹ 2.91 per unit in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 2.83 per unit in fiscal year 2017, a decrease of 3.0%.(excluding power from TSPL 1980 MW power plant). In fiscal year 2016, Jharsuguda power unit of 2400 MW was part of power business in which there was an option for sale in open access. Since April 2016, 1800 MW (three units of 600 MW each) has been converted to CPP in aluminium business. Balance IPP 600 MW power supply does not include open access therefore there is decrease in power rate realization based on PPA rate under long term contract.

•

Cost of generation at the power business (excluding power from the TSPL 1980 MW power plant) decreased from ₹ 2.15 per unit in fiscal years 2016 to ₹ 2.0 in fiscal year 2017, marginal decrease of 2.1%.

Operating profit in the power segment increased from ₹ 8,221 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 10,757 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 2,536 million or 30.8%, primarily as a result of sales from commissioned additional units at TSPL and BALCO. Operating margin increased from 18.1% in fiscal year 2016 to 19.5% in fiscal year 2017.

Other

Operating profit in our other business segments decreased from operating profit of ₹ 244 million in fiscal year 2016 to operating loss of ₹ 199 million in fiscal year 2017.

156

Investment and Other income

Investment and other income increased from ₹ 43,998 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 45,428 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 1,430 million or 3.3%, primarily due to significant mark-to-market (MTM) gains partially offset by lower investment at Zinc India on account of a special dividend payout.

Finance costs

Finance costs increased from ₹ 59,584 million in fiscal year 2016 to ₹ 61,600 million by ₹ 2,016 million or 3.4% in fiscal year 2017. This was primarily on account of the increase in the proportion of Indian Rupee borrowings from 52% of total borrowings in fiscal year 2016 to 86% of total borrowings in fiscal year 2017, decrease in the proportion of USD borrowings from 48% of total borrowings in fiscal year 2016 to 12% of total borrowings in fiscal year, partially offset by a reduction in interest rates.

Tax expense

Tax credit changed from ₹ 103,060 million in fiscal year 2016 to tax credit of ₹ 38,027 million in fiscal year 2017. Our effective income tax rate, calculated as tax credit divided by our loss before taxes, was credit of 36.2% in fiscal year 2016 as compared to credit of 27.8% in fiscal year 2017. The effective tax rate has decreased by 8.4%. The tax charge has increased primarily due to increase in profits; however, the effective tax rate has decreased due to increase in benefit arising on account of investment allowance and increase in non-taxable income which was partially offset by phasing out of tax holiday benefits at Zinc India and Oil and Gas.

Non-controlling interest

On account of above mentioned factors, loss for the year decreased from ₹ 181,348 million in fiscal year 2016 to profit of ₹ 98,545 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 279,893 million or 154.3%.

Loss attributable to non-controlling interest decreased from loss of ₹ 56,195 million in fiscal year 2016 to profit of ₹ 43,512 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 99,707 million or 177.4%. Non-controlling interest as a percentage of profit or loss increased from 31.0% in fiscal year 2016 to 44.2% in fiscal year 2017.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The following table is derived from our selected consolidated financial data and sets forth our cash flow for fiscal years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018:


	For the Year Ended March 31,
	2014		2015		2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in millions)										(US$ in millions)
Cash Flow Data:
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities		56,199		125,710		107,352		212,105		348,407		5,351
Investing activities		(52,631)		(43,939)		(42,613)		(79,910)		(52,153)		(801)
Financing activities		(6,280)		(86,448)		(52,714)		(49,123)		(357,144)		(5,485)

Liquidity

As of March 31, 2018, we had cash and short term investments (excluding restricted cash and cash equivalents) totaling ₹ 358,188 million ($ 5,502 million), and near-term debt redemption obligations of ₹ 94,188 million ($ 1,447 million), and we had, on a standalone basis, cash and short term investments (excluding restricted cash and cash equivalents) totaling ₹ 70,449 million ($ 1,082 million). We expect that our current cash, short term investments and our cash flows from operations together with refinancing of some of our debt will be our principal sources of cash to satisfy our capital requirements for the next few years.

Capital Requirements

Our principal capital requirements include:

•

capital expenditures, towards expansion of capacities in existing businesses including modernization of facilities, development of discovered oil fields and to sustain production or for enhanced recovery from reservoir and towards exploration and other ancillary business activities;

157

•

the establishment of our commercial power generation business;

•

consolidation of our ownership in our various subsidiaries; and

•

acquisitions of complementary businesses that we determine to be attractive opportunities.

We continue to consider increasing capacities of our existing businesses through greenfield and brownfield projects and through acquisitions as one of our major growth strategies, though we are actively monitoring global market and economic conditions and the outlook for commodity prices, as well as our current and anticipated liquidity positions, as we constantly evaluate our desired rate of growth in pursuing this strategy.

Our business is heavily dependent on plant and machinery for the production of our copper, zinc, oil and gas, iron ore and aluminium products, as well as investments in our mining and exploration operations and our commercial power generation business. Investments to maintain and expand production facilities are, accordingly, an important priority and have a significant effect on our cash flows and future results of operations. Our capital expenditures in fiscal year 2016, 2017 and 2018 were ₹ 60,473 million, ₹ 53,752 million and ₹ 75,605 million ($ 1,161 million), respectively, largely due to our capacity expansion and new projects across our oil and gas, copper, zinc, aluminium and power businesses.

HZL has expansion projects in the amount of approximately ₹ 108,600 million ($ 1,668 million) to be spent on the expansion of its existing underground mines together with the development of the underground mine at Rampura Agucha, expansion of Sindesar Khurd, Zawar, Rajpura Dariba and Kayad mines. As of March 31, 2018, ₹ 72,900 million ($ 1,120 million) has been spent on the expansion projects. Based on a long-term evaluation of assets and in consultation with global experts, the Company is evaluating plans to increase its mined metal capacity from 1.2 mtpa to 1.5 mtpa. The Board has approved the Phase I of this expansion which will increase mined metal and smelting capacity from 1.2 mtpa to 1.35 mtpa through brownfield expansion of existing mines at an estimated capital expenditure of around ₹ 45,000 million ($ 691 million)

We commenced exploration campaigns in Rajasthan in our oil and gas business to test prospective reserves. To unlock the potential of the prospective reserves, we are carrying out exploration drilling, seismic activities construction activities and studies. The estimated cost of this project is ₹ 53,041 million ($ 815 million) and the capital expenditure spent on the exploration campaign as of March 31, 2018, is ₹ 43,970 million ($ 675 million).

We have ongoing projects in the amounts of approximately ₹ 354,348 million ($ 5,442 million) set up on the existing producing fields at Mangala, Bhagyam and Aishwariya. The plan involves ramping up or sustaining the production from all the fields for which additional wells and related surface facilities are being drilled and constructed. Further, we continue to focus on infrastructure creation and prudent reservoir management for water flood and enhanced oil recovery implementation. As of March 31, 2018, net ₹ 247,029 million ($ 3,794 million) was spent on the ongoing projects at Mangala, Bhagyam and Aishwariya.

The Mangala Development pipeline is designed to evacuate the crude oil produced from the Rajasthan assets and provide access to markets. The pipeline ends at the coastal location of Bhogat. The entire length of the pipeline from the Mangala processing terminal to Bhogat is ready to receive crude oil. The estimated gross cost of developing the pipeline is ₹ 83,053 million ($ 1,276 million). As of March 31, 2018, the project is completed and amount has been spent on developing the Mangala Development pipeline.

We planned to invest ₹ 45,644 million ($ 701 million) to upgrade the existing Raageshwari gas terminal to provide increased capacity and also to unlock the opportunities in Mangala and Aishwariya Barmer hill development. We are also looking at the options to construct a new gas pipeline to monetize the additional gas potential in the block. As of March 31, 2018, ₹ 3,108 million ($ 48 million) has been spent.

We have ₹ 44,240 million ($ 679 million) of ongoing expansion projects to set up a 400,000 tpa copper smelter plant. Specifically, the proposed capacity expansion at Tuticorin had been delayed since December 2009 due to a writ petition filed before the High Court of Madras which has been dismissed by an order dated April 28, 2016. We legitimately expect necessary approvals for setting up the project. We received environmental clearance from MoEF in May 2015 and a consent to establish from TNPCB for the smelter in November 2016 and we are in the process of restarting the project activities for the copper smelter plant. In December 2017, we restarted the construction activities of the proposed expansion project and the same were in progress. In the meantime, the Madurai Bench of the High Court of Madras in a Public Interest Litigation filed against the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) and us, held vide its order dated May 23, 2018 that the application for renewal of the Environmental Clearance for the Expansion Project shall be processed after a mandatory public hearing and the said application shall be decided by the competent authority on or before September 23, 2018. In the interim, the High Court ordered us to cease construction and all other activities on site for the proposed Expansion Project with immediate effect. Separately, SIPCOT vide its letter dated May 29, 2018, cancelled 342.22 acres of the land allotted to us for the proposed Expansion Project. Further the TNPCB issued orders on June 7, 2018 directing the withdrawal of the Consent to Establish, which was valid till December 31, 2022. We would be taking appropriate legal measures to address the matters. We have incurred ₹ 9,932 million ($ 153 million) on these ongoing expansions as of March 31, 2018.

158

BALCO has set up a 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter and 1200 MW power facility at an estimated cost of ₹ 107,500 million ($ 1,651 million) which uses pre-baked technology from the Guiyang Aluminium Magnesium Design & Research Institute, or GAMI, of China. The first metal tapping from the 325,000 tpa aluminium smelter started in fiscal year 2015, and commercial production started during fiscal year 2015. The capital expenditure spent on these projects as of March 31, 2018 is ₹ 100,251 million ($ 1,540 million).

We planned to invest ₹ 111,260 million ($ 1,709 million) to expand our alumina refining capacity at Lanjigarh to 6 mmtpa and constructing an associated 210 MW captive power plant. The expansion of the alumina refinery at Lanjigarh had been on hold since October 2010, the date of the MoEF’s direction to us to cease further construction. In the last quarter of fiscal year 2016, environment clearance was received for the Lanjigarh expansion project and environmental clearance up to 6 mtpa will be received as an amendment to existing environmental clearance on the acquisition of required land. Further, a consent to establish for 6 mtpa and consent to operate for 2 mtpa was also obtained. We continue to explore the feasibility of expanding our alumina refinery capacity, from 2 to 4 mtpa and then up to 6 mtpa, subject to bauxite availability and regulatory approvals. See “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information – Legal Proceedings” for details. As of March 31, 2018, we have spent ₹ 59,014 million ($ 906 million).

The first 660 MW and second 660 MW unit of the Talwandi Sabo power plant were capitalized in fiscal year 2015 and 2016 respectively. The third 660 MW unit was capitalized on September 1, 2016 after successfully completing trial runs. As of March 31, 2018, ₹ 116,837 million ($ 1,794 million) was spent on this project.

In fiscal year 2017 and fiscal years 2018 to 2019, we have scheduled loan repayment obligations, denominated in a mix of Indian Rupees and US dollars of ₹ 314,537 million ($ 4,831 million) and ₹ 151,940 million ($ 2,334 million), respectively, for various outstanding long-term loans. We plan to finance our capital expenditures and our loan repayment obligations out of our cash flows from operations and financing activities. Our failure to make planned expenditures could adversely affect our ability to maintain or enhance our competitive position and develop higher margin products.

Consistent with our strategy to consolidate our ownership interests in our key subsidiaries, we had exercised the second call option to acquire the GoI’s remaining ownership interest in HZL although the exercise is currently subject to dispute. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Business—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO” for more information. The option value will be the fair market value determined by an independent appraiser, and will entail significant capital requirements. Based solely on the market price of HZL’s shares on the NSE on July 20, 2018 of ₹ 265 ($ 4) per share, and not including the other factors that the independent appraiser may consider, one possible estimation of the exercise price to acquire all of the GoI’s 1,247,950,590 shares in HZL would be ₹ 331,019 million ($ 5,084 million). If the GoI sells its remaining ownership interest in HZL through a public offer, we may look into alternative means of increasing our ownership interest in HZL.

In addition, we have exercised our option to acquire the GoI’s remaining 49.0% ownership interest in BALCO, although the exercise of this option has been contested by the GoI and the GoI retains the right and has expressed an intention to sell 5.0% of BALCO to BALCO employees. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Business—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO” for more information.

We may in the future make acquisitions of mines, plants or minerals and metals businesses that complement or enhance our existing businesses.

We have consistently paid dividends including tax on dividend amounting to ₹ 32,220 million in fiscal year 2016, ₹ 96,726 million in fiscal year 2017 and ₹ 163,651 ($ 2,513) million in fiscal year 2018.

Capital Resources

We plan to finance our capital requirements through a mix of cash flows from operating and financing activities. We do not depend on off-balance sheet financing arrangements. We believe that our working capital requirements can be sufficiently funded through our internal accruals and undrawn line of credit.

159

Comparison of Years Ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018

Net Cash from Operating Activities

Net cash from operating activities was ₹ 348,407 million ($ 5,351 million) in fiscal year 2018 compared to net cash from operating activities of ₹ 212,105 million in fiscal year 2017, an increase of ₹ 136,302 million. The net increase in cash from operating activities was primarily due to the following reasons:

•

net proceeds of short term investments was ₹ 197,509 million ($ 3,033 million) in fiscal year 2018 compared to net proceeds of short term investments of ₹ 96,762 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

income tax paid was ₹ 36,461 million ($ 560 million) in fiscal year 2018 compared to outflow of ₹ 53,067 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

the cash used in operating assets and liabilities (working capital) in fiscal year 2018 was ₹ 27,508 million ($ 422 million) compared to cash generated of ₹ 2,364 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

interest paid was ₹ 57,880 million ($ 889 million) in fiscal year 2018 compared to outflow of ₹ 62,048 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

interest received was ₹ 14,142 million ($ 217 million) in fiscal year 2018 compared to inflow of ₹ 11,315 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

dividend received was ₹ 111 million ($ 2 million) in fiscal year 2018 compared to inflow of ₹ 7 million in fiscal year 2017.

We believe our current working capital is sufficient to meet our present capital requirements.

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities was ₹ 52,153 million ($ 801 million) in fiscal year 2018 and ₹ 79,910 million in fiscal year 2017. The net cash used in investing activities in fiscal year 2018 reduced primarily due to:

•

more cash used towards expansion projects and exploration across our zinc, oil and gas, iron ore, copper, aluminium and power businesses of ₹ 72,237 million ($ 1,109 million) in fiscal year 2018 as compared to ₹ 53,752 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

net cash inflow was ₹ 24,582 million ($ 378 million) in fiscal year 2018 as compared to net cash outflow from short term deposits of ₹ 25,118 million in fiscal year 2017.

Net Cash used in Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities was ₹ 357,144 million ($ 5,485 million) in fiscal year 2018 and ₹ 49,213 million in fiscal year 2017, primarily on account of:

•

net cash outflow from long-term and short-term debts (other than working capital and related party debt) was ₹ 133,228 million ($ 2,046 million) in fiscal year 2018 as compared to cash inflow of ₹ 155,174 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

net cash outflow from acceptances was ₹ 19,134 million ($ 294 million) in fiscal year 2018 as compared to cash inflow of ₹ 12,564 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

net cash outflow for payment of dividend (including deemed dividend and payment of dividend by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests) of ₹ 163,651 million ($ 2,513 million) in fiscal year 2018 as compared to ₹ 96,726 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

net cash flow from loans from related parties was nil in fiscal year 2018 as compared to cash outflow of ₹ 125,248 million in fiscal year 2017.

•

net cash outflow from working capital loans was ₹ 39,453 million ($ 606 million) in fiscal year 2018 as compared to cash inflow of ₹ 6,123 million in fiscal year 2017.

160

Comparison of Years Ended March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2017

Net Cash from Operating Activities

Net cash from operating activities was ₹ 212,105 million in fiscal year 2017 compared to net cash from operating activities of ₹ 107,352 million in fiscal year 2016, an increase of ₹ 104,753 million. The net increase in cash from operating activities was primarily due to the following reasons:

•

net proceeds of short term investments was ₹ 96,762 million in fiscal year 2017 compared to net purchases of short term investments of ₹ 50,697 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

income tax paid was ₹ 53,067 million in fiscal year 2017 compared to outflow of ₹ 24,539 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

the cash generated from operating assets and liabilities (working capital) in fiscal year 2017 was ₹ 2,364 million compared to cash used of ₹ 65,645 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

interest paid was ₹ 62,048 million in fiscal year 2017 compared to outflow of ₹ 55,372 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

interest received was ₹ 11,315 million in fiscal year 2017 compared to inflow of ₹ 13,061 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

dividend received was ₹ 7 million in fiscal year 2017 compared to inflow of ₹ 4 million in fiscal year 2016.

We believe our current working capital is sufficient for our present capital requirements.

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities was ₹ 79,910 million in fiscal year 2017 and ₹ 42,613 million in fiscal year 2016. The net cash used in investing activities in fiscal year 2017 was higher primarily due to:

•

lower cash used towards expansion projects and exploration across our zinc, oil and gas, iron ore, copper, aluminium and power businesses of ₹ 53,752 million in fiscal year 2017 as compared to ₹ 60,473 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

net cash outflow was ₹ 25,118 million in fiscal year 2017 as compared to net cash inflow from short term deposits of ₹ 17,139 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

net cash outflow on account of loans to related parties was nil in fiscal year 2017 as compared to net cash outflow of ₹ 631 million in fiscal year 2016.

Net Cash used in Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities was ₹ 49,123 million in fiscal year 2017 and ₹ 52,714 million in fiscal year 2016, primarily on account of:

•

net cash inflow from long-term and short-term debts (other than working capital and related party debt) was ₹ 155,174 million in fiscal year 2017 as compared to cash inflow of ₹ 22,945 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

net cash inflow from acceptances was ₹ 12,564 million in fiscal year 2017 as compared to cash inflow of ₹ 1,757 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

net cash outflow for payment of dividend (including deemed dividend and payment of dividend by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests) of ₹ 96,726 million in fiscal year 2017 as compared to ₹ 32,220 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

net cash outflow from loans from related parties was ₹ 125,248 million in fiscal year 2017 as compared to cash outflow of ₹ 47,326 million in fiscal year 2016.

•

net cash inflow from working capital loans was ₹ 6,123 million in fiscal year 2017 as compared to cash inflow of ₹ 2,130 million in fiscal year 2016.

Outstanding Loans

See Note 17. “Borrowings” of Notes to the consolidated financial statements.

161

Export Obligations

See Note 29. “Commitments, contingencies and guarantees - Commitments and contingencies - Export Obligations” of Notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Guarantees

See Note 29. “Commitments, contingencies and guarantees - Guarantees” of Notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Capital Expenditure and Commitments

Our principal financing requirements primarily include:

•

capital expenditures, towards expansion of capacities in existing businesses including modernization of facilities;

•

the establishment of our planned commercial power generation business;

•

consolidation of our ownership in our various subsidiaries; and

•

acquisitions of complementary businesses that we determine to be attractive opportunities.

The following table shows our capital expenditures in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018:

For Year Ended March 31,

2016

2017

2018

(in millions)

(US dollars in millions)

Capital Expenditure

60,473

53,752

72,237

1,109

Capital Commitments

See Note 29. “Commitments, contingencies and guarantees” in the Notes to the consolidated financial statements for disclosures on capital commitments.

Contingencies

See Note 29. “Commitments, contingencies and guarantees” in the Notes to the consolidated financial statements for disclosure on contingent liabilities.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

See “Note 29 of Notes to the consolidated financial statements.”

Contractual Obligations

The following table sets out our total future commitments to settle contractual obligations as of March 31, 2018:


	Payment Due by Period (in millions)
																	More than
	Total				Less than 1 Year				1-3 Years				3-5 Years				5 Years
	(₹)		(US$)		(₹)		(US$)		(₹)		(US$)		(₹)		(US$)		(₹)		(US$)
Bank loans and borrowings		5,86,923		9,015		3,14,537		4,831		1,51,940		2,334		62,717		963		57,729		887
Interest commitments⁽¹⁾		89,429		1,374		32,356		497		28,957		445		11,449		176		16,667		256
Other non-current liabilities⁽²⁾		2,69,314		4,137		2,63,867		4,053		2,479		38		2,968		46		—		—
Capital commitments		123,157		1,892		92,044		1,414		31,113		478		—		—		—		—

Total		1,068,193		16,418		702,804		10,795		214,489		3,295		77,134		1,185		74,396		1,143

(1)	Interest payments for long-term fixed rate debts have been calculated based on applicable rates and payment dates. Interest payments on floating rate debt have been calculated based on the payment dates and rates as applicable on March 31, 2018 for each relevant debt instrument.

(2)	Other non-current liabilities consist of security deposits and retentions.

162

Our total future commitments to settle contractual obligations as of March 31, 2018 were ₹ 1,068,193 million ($ 16,406 million), representing a ₹ 102,109 million decrease as compared to our total future commitments to settle contractual obligations as of March 31, 2017.

We also have commitments to purchase copper concentrate for our copper custom smelting operations. These commitments are based on future copper LME prices which are not ascertainable as of the date of this Annual Report.

Safe Harbor

See “Special note regarding forward-looking statements”

Foreign exchange effects

See Note 23 “Financial instruments - Financial risk - Foreign exchange risk” in the Notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Recently issued accounting pronouncements

See Note 3.X “Recently issued accounting pronouncements” in the Notes to the consolidated financial statements.

ITEM 6.

DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

A. Directors and Senior Management

Our board of directors consists of nine directors.

The following table sets forth the name, age and position of each of our chairman emeritus, directors, executive officers and significant employees as of the date hereof:


Name	Age		Position

Anil Agarwal⁽¹⁾		66	Chairman Emeritus

Directors
Navin Agarwal⁽²⁾		57	Executive Chairman and Whole Time Director*
Lalita D. Gupte⁽³⁾		69	Non-Executive Director
Ravi Kant⁽⁴⁾		74	Non-Executive Director
Krishnamurthi Venkataramanan⁽⁵⁾		73	Non-Executive Director
Aman Mehta⁽⁶⁾		71	Non-Executive Director
Priya Agarwal⁽⁷⁾		28	Non-Executive Director
Upendra Kumar Sinha⁽⁸⁾		66	Non-Executive Director
Tarun Jain⁽⁹⁾		58	Whole Time Director*
GR Arun Kumar⁽¹⁰⁾		47	Whole Time Director* and Chief Financial Officer

Other Executive Officers
Kuldip Kaura		71	Interim Chief Executive Officer
Dilip Golani		52	Director, Group Management Assurance
Mansoor Siddiqi		66	Group Director, Projects
Samir Cairae		54	Chief Executive Officer - Diversified Metals (India)
Suresh Bose		50	Head – Group Human Resources
Philip Turner		61	Head - Group Health, Safety, Environment and Sustainability
Rajagopal Kishore Kumar		56	Director, Strategy and Business Development
Arun Arora		55	Head - Corporate Communications
Scot Caithness		58	Director, Exploration
Anup Agarwal		45	Senior Vice President, Corporate Finance

Other Significant Employees

Zinc India
Sunil Duggal		56	Chief Executive Officer, HZL and Lead Base Metals Group
Amitabh Gupta		56	Chief Financial Officer, HZL

163


Name	Age		Position

Zinc International
Deshnee Naidoo		42	Chief Executive Officer, Africa Base Metals
Pushpender Singla		33	Chief Financial Officer, Zinc International Division and CMT

Oil and Gas
Sudhir Mathur		56	Chief Executive Officer, Oil and Gas Business
Pankaj Kalra		42	Chief Financial Officer, Oil and Gas Business

Iron Ore
Naveen Kumar Singhal		55	Chief Executive Officer, Iron Ore Business
Azad Shaw		40	Chief Financial Officer, Iron Ore Business

Copper
P. Ramnath		60	Chief Executive Officer, Copper Operations at Tuticorin and Silvassa
Amit Agarwal		42	Chief Financial Officer, Copper Operations at Tuticorin and Silvassa

Aluminium and Power
Abhijit Pati		54	Chief Executive Officer, Aluminium Jharsuguda
Vikas Sharma		54	Chief Executive Officer, BALCO
Ajay Kumar Dixit		59	Chief Executive Officer, Alumina
Bharat Goenka		42	Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Aluminium Business

Notes:

A “Whole Time Director” is a director who is employed full-time in rendering services to our Company with respect to which he is a director. An individual can be a Whole Time Director with respect to only one company, although he or she may accept the position of Non-Whole Time Director in other companies.

(1)	Anil Agarwal was appointed as the Chairman Emeritus of our Company with effect from April 1, 2014. He ceased to be a member of the Board with effect from April 1, 2014.

(2)

Navin Agarwal was re-appointed as Executive Chairman with effect from April 1, 2014. He is a member of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee. Navin Agarwal was appointed as Whole Time Director with effect from August 17, 2013 to July 31, 2018. He was reappointed as Whole Time Director with effect from August 1, 2018 to July 31, 2023 subject to shareholders approval at the ensuing Annual General Meeting.

(3)

Lalita D. Gupte was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from March 29, 2014. Subsequently her appointment as an Independent Director was fixed for a period of three years effective as of January 29, 2015 to January 28, 2018. Lalita D. Gupte was re-appointed as an Independent Director for a second and final term effective January 29, 2018 to August 10, 2021, subject to shareholders approval at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. Lalita D. Gupte is the Chairperson of the Audit Committee, is the Chairperson of the Stakeholders Relationship Committee effective April 1, 2017 and is a member of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee.

(4)

Ravi Kant was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from January 28, 2014. Subsequently his appointment as an Independent Director was fixed for a period of three years effective as of January 29, 2015 to January 28, 2018. Ravi Kant was re-appointed as an Independent Director for a second and final term effective January 29, 2018 to May 31, 2019, subject to shareholders approval at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. Ravi Kant is a member of the Audit Committee, Nomination and Remuneration Committee and was appointed as Chairperson of the Corporate Social Responsibility Committee with effect from July 12, 2017.

(5)

Krishnamurthi Venkataramanan was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from April 1, 2017. He was appointed as an Additional Director and Independent Director for a term of three years effective as of April 1, 2017 to March 31, 2020 which was approved by the shareholders of the Company at the Annual General Meeting held on July 14, 2017. Krishnamurthi Venkataramanan is a member of the Stakeholders Relationship Committee and Corporate Social Responsibility Committee effective April 1, 2017.

(6)

Aman Mehta was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from May 17, 2017. He was appointed as an Independent Director for a term of three years effective as of May 17, 2017 to May 16, 2020 which was approved by the shareholders of the Company at the Annual General Meeting held on July 14, 2017. Aman Mehta is a member of the Audit Committee, Corporate Social Responsibility Committee and Chairperson of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee effective July 12, 2017.

(7)

Priya Agarwal was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from May 17, 2017. She was appointed as a Non-Independent Director for a term of three years effective as of May 17, 2017 to May 16, 2020 which was approved by the shareholders of the Company at the Annual General Meeting held on July 14, 2017. Priya Agarwal is a member of the Corporate Social Responsibility Committee effective July 12, 2017.

(8)

Upendra Kumar Sinha was appointed as a Non-Executive Director with effect from March 13, 2018 till August 10, 2021, subject to shareholders approval at the ensuring Annual General Meeting. Upendra Kumar Sinha is a member of the Audit Committee, Corporate Social Responsibility Committee and Stakeholders Relationship Committee effective March 28, 2018.

(9)

Tarun Jain was appointed as a Whole Time Director with effect from April 1, 2014. Tarun Jain was reappointed as Whole Time Director with effect from April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019 subject to shareholders approval at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. Tarun Jain is a member of the Corporate Social Responsibility Committee, the Risk Management Committee and Stakeholders Relationship Committee.

164

(10)

GR Arun Kumar was appointed as Chief Financial Officer with effect from October 1, 2016. He was appointed as a Whole Time Director with effect from November 22, 2016 to November 21, 2019 which was approved by the shareholders of the Company at the Annual General Meeting held on July 14, 2017. GR Arun Kumar is a member of the Risk Management Committee effective November 22, 2016 and is a member of Stakeholders Relationship Committee effective July 12, 2017.

Chairman Emeritus

Anil Agarwal, who founded the Vedanta group in 1976 was appointed as our Chairman Emeritus with effect from April 1, 2014. Anil Agarwal is based in the United Kingdom. Anil Agarwal is also the executive chairman of Vedanta and a director of Sterlite Technologies Limited. Anil Agarwal was previously our Chairman and Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer from 1980 until the expiration of his term in October 2004, and was our Non-Executive Chairman until March 2014. Anil Agarwal was also the Chief Executive Officer of Vedanta from December 2003 to March 2005. He has over 43 years of experience as an industrialist and has been instrumental in the growth and development of the Company since its inception. He is the son of Dwarka Prasad Agarwal and is the brother of Navin Agarwal. The business address of Anil Agarwal is 75 Nehru Road, Vile Parle (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099, India.

Directors

Navin Agarwal was appointed as our Executive Chairman with effect from April 1, 2014. Prior to this he was the executive vice chairman of SIIL. Navin Agarwal plays a key role in developing strategic thinking and the governance framework of the Group, and provides leadership for long-term planning, business development and capital planning. He has been part of the Group for the last 36 years and has extensive experience in the natural resources industry. Navin Agarwal plays a key role in the strategic and governance framework of the Group and provides leadership for its long-term planning, business development and capital planning. He has been instrumental in the growth of the Group, through world-scale organic projects as well as acquisitions. Navin Agarwal is also the deputy executive chairman of Vedanta and a non-executive director of HZL, Sterlite Iron & Steel Company Limited and Hare Krishna Packaging Private Limited. He has over 32 years of experience in general management and commercial matters. Navin Agarwal has completed the Owner/President management program at Harvard University and holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Sydenham College, Mumbai, India. Navin Agarwal is the son of Dwarka Prasad Agarwal and is the brother of Anil Agarwal. The business address of Navin Agarwal is 75 Nehru Road, Vile Parle (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099, India.

Lalita D. Gupte is one of our independent directors and was appointed to our Board with effect from March 29, 2014. She is the former joint managing director of ICICI Bank and was the chairperson of ICICI Venture Funds Management Company Limited until October 2016. Lalita D. Gupte joined the board of ICICI Limited in 1994 as the executive director and remained on the board as the joint managing director until 2002 when it merged with ICICI Bank. She was the joint managing director of ICICI Bank from 2002 until 2006. She has more than three decades of experience in the financial sector and has held various leadership positions in areas of leasing, planning and resources and corporate banking. She serves as a director on the board of several companies including Godrej Properties Limited, Bharat Forge Limited, Kirloskar Brothers Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited and Chairperson of India Infradebt Limited. She holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and a master’s degree in business management. She completed her advanced management program from INSEAD. The business address of Lalita D. Gupte is Mhaskar Building, 153 C Matunga, Sir Bhalchandra Road, Mumbai—400019, Maharashtra, India.

Ravi Kant is one of our independent directors and was appointed to our Board with effect from January 28, 2014. Ravi Kant has approximately five decades of experience in various companies. He was previously the managing director and vice chairman of Tata Motors Limited. He joined Tata Motors in 1999 and has been associated with Jaguar and Land Rover, Tata Daewoo Commercial Vehicles, Korea and Tata Motors, Thailand. Ravi Kant retired as the vice-chairman of Tata Motors Limited with effect from May 31, 2014. Prior to joining Tata Motors Limited, Ravi Kant was the director of Phillips India Limited, overseeing the consumer electronics division. He has also worked with LML Limited, Titan Watches and other consumer and metal companies in senior positions. He is the chairman of the Indian Institute of Management, Rohtak and Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad and a visiting faculty member at China Europe International Business School in Shanghai. He is also on the advisory board of Accenture India and also served as Chairman Advisory Board of Akhandhyoti Eye Hospital. He serves on the board of Antar India Private Limited, Hawkins Cooker Limited and KONE Limited, Helsinki. Ravi Kant studied at Mayo College, Ajmer, the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur and Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom, from where he completed his master’s degree in management in industry. He was conferred with an honorary doctorate of science by Aston University in Birmingham in July 2008. He is an Honorary Industrial Professor at the University of Warwick, United Kingdom. The business address of Ravi Kant is 114 B, NCPA Apartments, Nariman Point, Mumbai – 400 021, Maharashtra, India.

165

Krishnamurthi Venkataramanan is one of our independent directors and was appointed to our Board with effect from April 1, 2017. He was the chief executive officer and managing director of Larsen & Toubro Limited from April 2012 and also served on the Board of Larsen & Toubro Limited from May 1999 until his retirement in September 2015. During his four decades of experience at Larsen & Toubro Limited, his responsibilities included leading a team of engineers and consultants and overseeing its engineering, procurement and construction value chain. He is a graduate in chemical engineering and also a distinguished alumni awardee from Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. K. Venkataramanan also serves as a director on the boards of several companies including Kirloskar Pneumatic Company Limited, Nilkamal Limited, Larsen & Toubro Employees Welfare Foundation Private Limited and Larsen & Toubro Welfare Company Limited, as Non-Executive Chairman of Larsen & Toubro Hydrocarbon Engineering Limited and as a trustee in Larsen & Toubro Employee Welfare Foundation. The business address of Krishnamurthi Venkataramanan is 401 Varsha, Janki Kutir, Juhu, Mumbai—400049, Maharashtra, India.

Aman Mehta is one of our independent directors and was appointed to our Board with effect from May 17, 2017. He has over 35 years of experience in various positions with HSBC group from where he retired in January 2004 as chief executive officer, Asia Pacific. Aman Mehta occupies himself primarily with corporate governance, with board and advisory roles in a range of companies and institutions in India as well as overseas. Formerly, he has been a supervisory board member of ING Group NV and a director of Raffles Holdings, Singapore. He is also a member of the governing board of the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad, India and a member of the international advisory board of Prudential of America. He is an economics graduate from Delhi University. Aman Mehta also serves as director on the boards of several companies including Wockhardt Limited, Tata Consultancy Services Limited, Tata Steel Limited, Godrej Consumer Products Limited, Max Financial Services Limited, PCCW Limited, and Hong Kong Telecommunications Limited. The business address of Aman Mehta is 115 A, 2nd Floor, Jor Bagh, New Delhi – 110 003, India.

Priya Agarwal is one of our Non-Executive directors and was appointed to our Board with effect from May 17, 2017. She brings with her experience in public relations with Ogilvy and Mather and in human resources with Korn Ferry International, Vedanta Resources and HDFC Bank and in strategic planning with Rediffusion Dentsu Young & Rubicam Private Limited. She holds a bachelor’s degree in science, psychology and business management from the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom. She is the daughter of Anil Agarwal. The business address of Priya Agarwal is 75 Nehru Road, Vile Parle (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099, India.

Upendra Kumar Sinha is one of our independent directors and was appointed to our Board with effect from March 13, 2018 subject to shareholders approval at the ensuring Annual General Meeting. He has over three decades of experience and has served as the Chairman of Securities and Exchange Board of India from February 2011 to March 2017. Under his leadership, Securities and Exchange Board of India introduced significant regulatory amendments to the various acts enhancing corporate governance and disclosure requirements and has been instrumental in bringing about key capital market reforms. Prior to joining the Securities and Exchange Board of India, he was the Chairman and Managing Director of UTI Asset Management Company Private Limited. Upendra Kumar Sinha has also worked for the Department of Economic Affairs under the Ministry of Finance, India. Upendra Kumar Sinha also serves as director on the boards of several companies including Saumitra Research & Consulting Private Limited, Havells India Limited and Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited. The business address of Upendra Kumar Sinha is K 94, 2nd Floor, Hauz Khas Enclave, New Delhi – 110 016, India.

Tarun Jain was appointed to our Board as a Whole Time Director with effect from April 1, 2014. He was the director of finance of SIIL. Tarun Jain joined the Group in 1984 and has over 35 years of experience in the corporate finance, audit and accounting, tax and secretarial practice. He is responsible for our strategic financial matters, including corporate finance, corporate strategy, business development and mergers and acquisitions. Tarun Jain is a graduate of the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India and a Fellow Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and the Institute of Company Secretaries of India. Tarun Jain is also a director of Sterlite USA, BALCO, Vedanta Medical Research Foundation, Vedanta Star Limited and Rajtaru Charity Foundation. The business address of Tarun Jain is 75 Nehru Road, Vile Parle (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099, India.

GR Arun Kumar is our Chief Financial Officer with effect from October 1, 2016 and was appointed as a member of the Board effective November 22, 2016. GR Arun Kumar joined Vedanta in 2013 as chief financial officer of Vedanta Aluminium in May 2013 and was appointed as deputy chief financial officer of Vedanta in December 2013. In 2014, he moved into the role of executive vice president finance and deputy chief financial officer, as part of which he was responsible for enhancing the capability of the finance function in the areas of accounting, risk management, driving value creation, strategic planning, re-financing, board reporting and governance and direct taxation. As a chartered accountant, GR Arun Kumar has over 23 years of experience at global companies such as Hindustan Unilever and General Electric. Prior to joining Vedanta Aluminium, he was the chief financial officer—Asia Pacific (Appliances and Lighting) for General Electric, based out of Shanghai. He is also on the board of BMM, Sesa Community Development Foundation, Skorpion, Namzinc (Proprietary) Limited, Skorpion Mining Company (Proprietary) Limited, Vedanta Lisheen Mining Limited, Killoran Lisheen Mining Limited, Lisheen Milling Limited, Vedanta Exploration Ireland Limited, Sesa Resources Limited, Sesa Mining Corporation Limited, CMT, Thalanga Copper Mines Proprietary Limited, Konkola Copper Mines, Plc, Sterlite Ports Limited, Maritime Ventures Private Limited, Paradip Multi Cargo Berth Private Limited, Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited, Vedanta Star Limited and Goa Sea Port Private Limited. GR Arun Kumar holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Loyola University, Chennai and is a fellow member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The business address of GR Arun Kumar is DLF Atria, Phase 2, Jacaranda Marg, DLF City, Gurugram – 122002, Haryana, India.

166

Executive Officers

Kuldip Kaura was appointed as the Interim Chief Executive Officer effective September 1, 2017. Prior to this, he rejoined the group in May 2016 as President, Chairman’s Office. He has more than four decades of experience across engineering and mining roles. Kuldip Kaura has served at senior levels in various reputable companies, including Vedanta as Chief Executive Officer, Managing Director at ASEA Brown Boveri India, India and Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of a cement major in India, ACC Limited (LafargeHolcim). Mr. Kaura holds a honours bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, Rajasthan and an executive education from the London Business School and Swedish Institute of Management, Stockholm, Sweden. The business address of Kuldip Kaura is 16 Berkley Street, London WIJ 8DZ, United Kingdom.

Dilip Golani currently heads the Group’s Management Assurance Services function. He previously headed the sales and marketing division for HZL and group performance management function. Prior to joining the group in April 2000, Dilip Golani was member of the Unilever corporate audit team responsible for auditing Unilever group companies in Central Asia, Middle East and Africa region. Prior to that, he was responsible for managing operations and marketing functions for one of the exports businesses of Unilever India. Dilip Golani has 30 years of experience and has previously worked with organizations such as Union Carbide India Limited and Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited. Dilip Golani holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and has completed his post-graduate studies in industrial engineering and management from National Institute of Industrial Engineering, Mumbai, India. The business address of Dilip Golani is 75 Nehru Road, Vile Parle (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099, India.

Mansoor Siddiqi was appointed as the Group Director in-charge of projects in September 2011 and is currently in contracting capacity with Vedanta since February 2017. He was formerly chief executive officer, Aluminium and led the establishment of the Group’s large aluminium and power projects including BALCO smelters and captive power plants. He also played a key role in setting up the Group’s copper smelter at Tuticorin and copper refinery at Silvassa. Mansoor Siddiqi joined our Group in 1991. Prior to joining our Group, Mansoor Siddiqi held senior positions at Hindustan Copper Limited and has 42 years of experience in various areas of operations and project management. Mansoor Siddiqi holds a bachelor’s degree in technology from the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, and a post graduate diploma in management from the All India Management Association, Delhi. The business address of Mansoor Siddiqi is 16 Berkeley Street, London W1J 8DZ, United Kingdom.

Samir Cairae was appointed as Chief Executive Officer, Diversified Metals (India) in January 2016. Currently, he provides operational and strategic leadership for Vedanta Limited’s aluminium and power divisions. Prior to his appointment at Vedanta Limited, Samir Cairae held senior leadership positions in Group Lafarge and Schlumberger and Accor. He has wide experience in a number of corporate roles in strategy, mergers and acquisitions, industrial operations, in managing profit and loss roles in both growth and turnaround situations in India, China, Philippines, France and has held senior positions in several complex businesses, including heading listed companies. In his last role before joining Vedanta Limited, he was heading the global industrial function for Lafarge’s 150 cement operations in over 45 countries and was based in Paris. Samir Cairae holds a graduate degree in electrical engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, and a master’s degree in management from the Hautes Etudes Commercials School of Management, Paris. The business address of Samir Cairae is DLF Atria, Phase 2, Jacaranda Marg, DLF City, Gurugram – 122002, Haryana, India.

Suresh Bose was appointed as the Head of Group Human Resources with effect from September 2015. Suresh Bose has 26 years of extensive experience in human resources, of which 16 years have been with the Vedanta Group where he has worked across different business units (including aluminium, copper and corporate) in human resource specialist roles. Prior to joining Vedanta Limited, Suresh Bose has been associated with HMT Limited, Larsen & Toubro Limited, Ford India Private Limited and Mahindra & Mahindra Limited. He also brings international human resource work experience of four years from Armenia Gold Recovery Company, Armenia. Suresh Bose has a dual master’s degree in personnel management and industrial relations from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai and Institute of Social Studies, Hague, Netherlands. The business address of Suresh Bose is DLF Atria, Phase 2, Jacaranda Marg, DLF City, Gurugram – 122002, Haryana, India.

Philip Turner was appointed as Head of Group Health, Safety, Environment and Sustainability with effect from July 2017. He joined us as Head of Group Health and Safety in September 2014. He has over 36 years of experience within mining, heavy engineering and manufacturing organizations. He was previously General Manager Risk and Sustainability of JK Tech Pty Limited, Australia. He has also previously held a number of senior corporate and operational roles at Rio Tinto Group, Australia, Canada and United Kingdom including responsibility for health, safety, environment and sustainability assurance. He has held senior roles at mining companies, North Limited and at BHP Petroleum’s offshore operations. He has a Master of applied science in risk engineering from Ballarat University, Australia, bachelor’s degree in science from Deakin University, Australia, graduate diploma in occupational hygiene from Deakin University, Australia and graduate diploma in occupational hazard management from Ballarat C.A.E. The business address of Philip Turner is DLF Atria, Phase 2, Jacaranda Marg, DLF City, Gurugram – 122002, Haryana, India.

167

Rajagopal Kishore Kumar was appointed as the Director of Strategy and Business Development effective January 17, 2018. Prior to this, he was the Chief Executive Officer of our iron ore business since February 2, 2015 and the Chief Executive Officer (Base metals) Africa with Konkola Copper Mines Plc, Zinc International business and CMT since August 2013. He was earlier appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of our Zinc International Division with effect from February 2011. Prior to this, Rajagopal Kishore Kumar headed our copper business at Konkola Copper Mines Plc since 2008 and Sterlite Copper India Limited since 2006. He has more than 33 years of experience in accounting, marketing, supply chain management, merger and acquisitions and business turnaround. Rajagopal Kishore Kumar joined our Company in April 2003 as vice president of marketing for HZL and became senior vice president of marketing for our copper division from June 2004 to December 2006, where he was responsible for copper marketing and concentrate procurement. Prior to joining our Company, Rajagopal Kishore Kumar was employed by Hindustan Unilever Limited for 12 years. Rajagopal Kishore Kumar holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce, Kolkata University and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The business address of Rajagopal Kishore Kumar is 4th Floor, Core 6, Scope Office Complex, New Delhi 110003 India.

Arun Arora was appointed as the Head of Corporate Communications with effect from December 18, 2017. Arun Arora joined the Group on November 17, 2014 as Chief Communication Officer, Cairn. He was given charge of the Group Communications in September 2017. Prior to joining Vedanta, he has worked with companies like Escorts Limited and Maruti Suzuki India Limited and headed communication functions of organizations like Delhi International Airport Limited, Jindal Steel and Power Limited and GVK Industries Limited, encompassing sectors like automobiles, airports, infrastructure, power, roads, steel, mining and oil and gas. He has 30 years experience in various facets of communications including branding, advertising, media, social and digital media, publications, crisis communication and internal communication with employees and various stakeholders. Arun Arora has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from R.V. College of Engineering, Bangalore, masters in business administration in marketing and advertising from International Management Institute and a post graduate diploma in journalism from Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, New Delhi. The business address of Arun Arora is DLF Atria, Phase 2, Jacaranda Marg, DLF City, Gurugram – 122002, Haryana, India.

Scot Caithness was appointed as Director of Exploration in September 2017. Prior to this, he was the Head of Exploration for HZL since November 2015. Scot Caithness has over 30 years of experience within the exploration industry. Prior to joining the Group, he co-founded and was the Managing Director of Indian Pacific Resources Limited, an unlisted Australian exploration company. He spent 18 years with Rio Tinto in the exploration department in various senior corporate and operational roles in Australia, Papua New Guinea and India, which included establishment of Rio Tinto’s first exploration office in India. In addition, Scot Caithness held senior roles at Indophil Resources NL and the Australian Trade Commission. He was also associated with Vedanta as Head of Exploration in the year September 2004 and November 2006. Scot Caithness has a bachelor’s degree of applied science in Geology from RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. The business address of Scot Caithness is Central Research and Development Laboratory, Debari, Rajasthan - 313024, India.

Anup Agarwal was appointed as the Senior Vice President of Corporate Finance in January 2018. Prior to this, he was the Chief Financial Officer of our copper operations in Tuticorin and Silvassa since January 2015. He has 21 years of post-qualification experience in the manufacturing industry and joined Vedanta group in 2002. He has handled various roles in our Group including leadership positions in finance verticals at BALCO, Jharsuguda and Talwandi Sabo Power Limited before moving to our copper operations in Tuticorin and Silvassa. Anup Agarwal is a bachelor of commerce from S. P. Mahavidyalaya, Bijainagar, Rajasthan, a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India. The business address of Anup Agarwal is DLF Atria, Phase 2, Jacaranda Marg, DLF City, Gurugram – 122002, Haryana, India.

168

Other Significant Employees

Zinc India Business

Sunil Duggal was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer and Whole Time Director of HZL in October 2015. He was additionally given the responsibility of leading the Base Metal Group comprising of zinc, copper and iron ore businesses. He joined HZL in August 2010 as executive director, became chief operating officer in the April 2012 and was deputy chief executive officer from April 2014, before becoming chief executive officer and whole time director of HZL. He has over 32 years of experience of leading high performance teams and more than 19 years in leadership positions. He is also serving as vice chairman of International Zinc Association, president of Indian Lead Zinc Development Association, chairman of FIMI Non Ferrous Metals Committee and co-chair of the FICCI Non-Ferrous Metals Committee 2017. Recently, he has been appointed as chairman, Skill Council for Mining Sector, India. Sunil Duggal holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala. He has participated in a leadership development and management development program at the International Institute for Management Development, Lausanne, Switzerland and the Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata, India.

Amitabh Gupta was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of HZL in November 2011 and is responsible for its finance and accounting, legal and secretarial, treasury and investor relations, direct and indirect tax and information technology. Prior to this, he was the chief financial officer of Moser Baer Solar Limited. He has over 30 years of experience in finance and has worked at various companies including Cargill India, TeleTech India (Bharti Group) and Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited. He has a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Shriram College of Commerce, New Delhi. He was awarded the Best Chief Financial Officer in the metal sector in India by CNBC-TV18 in 2014. Amitabh Gupta is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and the Institute of Cost Accountants of India.

169

Zinc International Business

Deshnee Naidoo was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Africa Base Metals with effect from May 14, 2018. Prior to this, she was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Zinc International and Copper Mines of Tasmania (CMT) in February 2015. Deshnee Naidoo has over 21 years of experience in the resources industry including platinum, thermal coal and manganese. Prior to joining the Group, she was with Anglo American as chief financial officer - Thermal Coal in South Africa. She had previously held various technical and commercial positions across Anglo American. She was awarded the JCI/Anglo Platinum bursary in 1994 to receive a bachelor’s degree in science (chemical engineering) at University of Natal, Durban, South Africa. She joined Anglo American in 1998 as a trainee metallurgist at the precious metals refinery and over a 16 year span she held various roles including process engineering (corporate office), process control, strategic long-term planning, corporate finance, chief executive officer’s office and chief financial officer - thermal coal at Anglo American in which her responsibilities entailed management of two commodity groupings (thermal coal and manganese) across three regions (South Africa, South America and Australia).

Pushpender Singla was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of zinc international division and CMT in October 2016. He was earlier appointed as the Deputy Chief Financial Officer of zinc international division and CMT in November 2015. He has over 11 years of experience in the mining and metal industry across aluminium, power, copper and zinc business in India, Australia and Africa. He joined the Group in February 2007. During his tenure within the Group, he has handled various functions including project finance, treasury, trade finance, business and financial control, commercial, marketing, legal, information technology and advocacy. He is the Chairman as well as Director of International Zinc Association, Africa and Director of Lisheen, Vedanta Exploration Ireland Limited, Skorpion and Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited. Pushpender Singla has a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Maharaja Ganga Singh University, Bikaner, Rajasthan and is an associate member of the Institute of Chartered Accountant of India.

Oil and Gas

Sudhir Mathur was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of our oil and gas business with effect from November 13, 2017. Prior to this, he was appointed as the Chief Financial officer of our oil and gas business in September 2012. On May 20, 2016, he was appointed as the acting Chief Executive Officer of oil and gas business with effect from June 5, 2016. He has over 32 years of experience working in various industries such as telecommunications, manufacturing, infrastructure and consulting. He began his career with PricewaterhouseCoopers in 1986. Prior to joining the Group, he was the chief financial officer, Aircel Cellular Limited and was responsible for strategy, finance, supply chain management and regulatory affairs. He has substantial expertise, knowledge and experience in several key areas of finance and strategic planning, with a proven track record in deploying significant capital to enable value creation. He has also played a pivotal role in his previous assignments in accelerating business growth. He has previously also held senior executive positions in Delhi International Airport Limited, Idea Cellular, Ballarpur Industries Limited and Price Waterhouse Coopers India. Sudhir Mathur holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Shri Ram College of Commerce and a master’s degree in business administration from Cornell University.

Pankaj Kalra was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of our oil and gas business in November 2017. Prior to this, he was working as Deputy Chief Financial Officer of our oil and gas business. Prior to joining the Group, he was the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President for Reliance Infocomm Limited and was responsible for finance, strategy, mergers and acquisitions and regulatory affairs. He has also held senior leadership positions at various multinational companies including Idea Cellular, American Towers Corporation, Ernst and Young and Sprint R&G. Pankaj Kalra brings over 21 years of experience across key verticals in finance and strategic planning. He has been instrumental in his previous assignments in enabling business growth. Pankaj Kalra holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Shri Ram College of Commerce and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and Institute of Company Secretaries of India.

Iron Ore

Naveen Kumar Singhal was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of our iron ore business effective February 6, 2018. Naveen Kumar Singhal possesses over three decades of experience, out of which 22 years has been in the natural resources arena handling various portfolios in metals and mining and cement industry. He joined Vedanta in 2003 and has been instrumental in driving the growth projects in HZL from conceptualization to commissioning through the best-in-class mining and smelting technologies, mechanization and automation alongside effective stakeholder management. Prior to joining Vedanta, he had served in leadership roles at Swaraj Mazda Limited, Jay Engineering Company Limited and Andhra Cements Limited. Naveen Kumar Singhal has played pivotal role in the areas of supply chain management, assets acquisition, business turnaround strategy, general management and project management. Naveen Kumar Singhal has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical and industrial engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand and a post graduate diploma in industrial engineering and management from National Institute of Industrial Engineering, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Azad Shaw was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of our iron ore business in October 2016. He has 18 years of post-qualification experience and joined Vedanta group in 2001. He has handled various roles in our Group including leadership positions in finance verticals at BALCO and HZL before moving to our iron ore business. Azad Shaw is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

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Copper Business

P. Ramnath was appointed the Chief Executive Officer of our copper operations in Tuticorin, Silvassa and Fujairah Gold FZC in September 2011 and has over 31 years of experience in chemicals, specialty chemicals, manufacturing and paper industries. Prior to joining our Group, he worked at Jubilant Life Sciences, Praxair India, SNF Ion Exchange, Bakelite Hylam Limited and Reliance Industries Limited. He is also a director of Malco Energy Limited. Prior to joining us, he was the chief operating officer of JK Paper Limited. P. Ramnath holds a bachelor’s degree in technology from Osmania University, Hyderabad and holds a post graduate diploma from the Indian Institute of Management, Bengaluru.

Amit Agarwal was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of our copper operations in Tuticorin and Silvassa in January 2018. He has 17 years of post-qualification experience and joined Vedanta group in 2001. He has handled various roles in our Group including leadership positions in finance verticals at TSPL and BALCO before moving to our copper business. Amit is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

Aluminium and Power Business

Abhijit Pati was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of our aluminium business, Jharsuguda in March 2015. Prior to this role, he was the president and chief operating officer of our aluminium and power business at Odisha since April 2012. He has over 30 years of experience in aluminium industry. Prior to joining us, he was the vice president with Hindalco Industries Limited. He started his career as a budding engineer with Indian Aluminium Company in the year 1989. He was awarded with the ‘Exceptional Contributor Award’ from the Aditya Birla Group Chairman, Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla for significant contribution to turn around Hirakud Aluminium Smelter in the year 2006 and won the prestigious British Sword of Honor for the Hirakud Smelter in the year 1999. He is a member of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under Ministry of Power, GoI. He is also holding the position of Vice President in Aluminium Association of India and member of Governing body. He is two times gold medalist from prestigious institutes like Calcutta University and International Management Institute, New Delhi. Abhijit Pati has a first class honours bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Calcutta University and a master’s in business administration from International Management Institute, New Delhi.

Vikas Sharma was appointed the Chief Executive Officer of BALCO in March 2017. Vikas Sharma has experience of over 30 years in various national and multi-national companies. He has experience of serving HMT Watches Limited, Su-Raj Diamonds India Private Limited, AMP India Private Limited, Praxair India Private Limited, Jindal Praxair Oxygen Company Limited and JSW Steel Limited in various key positions. Vikas Sharma joined as location head of Chanderiya of HZL in 2012 and was gradually elevated to the chief operating officer of smelters division of HZL in June 2014. During his tenure at HZL, he played integral role in the growth of the company and made significant contribution in smelter production. Vikas Sharma holds bachelor’s degree with honors in mechanical engineering from Engineering College Kota, University of Rajasthan and a master’s in business administration in marketing from Sikkim Manipal University, Gangtok, India.

Ajay Kumar Dixit was appointed the Chief Executive Officer of Alumina since February 2017. He is also supporting in the TSPL business. He joined the Group as chief executive officer of our power business in May 2015. He has 38 years of experience in the power industry and joined Vedanta Limited in May 2015. Prior to this, he was the Chief Executive Officer – Energy with Siemens, responsible for the overall operations of South Asia. He has wide experience in the field of entire energy chain comprising of power generation, automation, transmission and distribution. He also has experience in manufacturing and setting up plants in South Asia, Middle East and Africa. Ajay Kumar Dixit holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Delhi College of Engineering.

Bharat Goenka was appointed as Deputy Chief Financial Officer of our aluminium business in July 2017 taking care of the overall finance function for the aluminium business. Prior to joining us, Bharat has worked with Hindustan Unilever Limited. He has more than 20 years of experience in various roles across different countries covering the core finance areas of accounting, planning, information technology, controllerships, finance business partnering in areas of supply chain, procurement and customers. Bharat Goenka is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

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B. Compensation

Compensation of Executive Directors, Executive Officers and Significant Employees

The aggregate compensation we paid our executive directors, executive officers and significant employees for fiscal year 2018 was ₹ 1,341 million ($ 21 million), which includes ₹ 1,026 million ($ 16 million) paid towards salary, bonuses, allowances and other cash payments, ₹ 259 million ($ 4 million) paid and payable for the fair value of share options granted to our executive directors, executive officers and significant employees, and ₹ 56 million ($ 1 million) paid towards benefits such as contributions to the provident fund and superannuation fund. The total compensation paid to our most highly compensated executive director, executive officer or significant employees during fiscal year 2018 was ₹ 210 million ($ 3 million) of which ₹ 133 million ($ 2 million) comprised salary, bonuses, allowances and perquisites ₹ 62 million ($ 1 million) comprised fair value of share options granted and ₹ 15 million ($ 0 million) comprised benefits such as contribution to the provident fund and superannuation fund.

The following table sets forth the compensation paid to our executive directors, executive officers and significant employees in fiscal year 2018, where the disclosure of compensation is required on an individual basis in India or is otherwise publicly disclosed by us:


Name	Salary, Bonuses,		Fair Value of Share Options granted		Contribution to
	Allowances and				Provident and
	Perquisites				Superannuation Funds
	(₹ in millions)
Navin Agarwal		133		62		15
Tom Albanese⁽¹⁾		72		60		2
Kuldip Kaura⁽²⁾		50		4		—
Tarun Jain		95		25		9
GR Arun Kumar		39		8		2
Dilip Golani		35		9		2
Mansoor Siddiqi		16		4		—
Roma Balwani⁽³⁾		19		2		—
Samir Cairae		97		8		8
Suresh Bose		12		3		1
Philip Turner		39		2		—
Rajagopal Kishore Kumar		43		10		4
Arun Arora⁽⁴⁾		4		0		0
Scot Caithness⁽⁵⁾		13		0		—
Anup Agarwal		13		3		1
Sunil Duggal		42		11		2
Amitabh Gupta		33		6		1
Deshnee Naidoo		35		5		4
Pushpender Singla		16		2		—
Sudhir Mathur		59		3		2
Pankaj Kalra⁽⁶⁾		6		0		0
Naveen Kumar Singhal⁽⁷⁾		4		6		0
Azad Shaw		9		2		1
P. Ramnath		33		6		—
Amit Agarwal⁽⁸⁾		1		0		0
Abhijit Pati		27		8		2
Vikas Sharma		23		4		1
Ajay Kumar Dixit		46		6		—
Bharat Goenka		11		1		1

Notes:

(1)	Until August 31, 2017

(2)	Appointed on September 1, 2017

(3)	Until September 30, 2017

(4)	Appointed on December 18, 2017

(5)	Appointed on September 21, 2017

(6)	Appointed on November 13, 2017

(7)	Appointed on February 6, 2018

(8)	Appointed on January 31, 2018

The aggregate compensation paid or payable to our non-executive directors for fiscal year 2018 was ₹ 36 million ($ 1 million), which comprised ₹ 4 million ($ 0 million) in sitting fees and ₹ 32 million ($ 0 million) in commissions.

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The Vedanta Performance Share Plan was launched in November 2014 and December 2015. Under this scheme, the vesting of options is based on the company’s performance as against its industry competitors and based on total shareholder return, for which the vesting percentage is determined over a three year performance period from the date of grant. During fiscal year 2016, Vedanta introduced the Deferred Share Bonus Plan, under which a portion of the annual bonus is deferred into shares and the awards granted under this scheme are not subject to any performance conditions and the vesting schedule is staggered over a period of two or three years. The Vedanta Performance Share Plan 2016 and 2017 was launched in November 2016 and November 2017, respectively, with the same performance conditions as the Vedanta Performance Share Plans covering only executive directors. In December 2016, Vedanta Limited introduced an Employee Stock Option Scheme by awarding Vedanta Limited options to its selected employees. Under this scheme, the vesting of options is based on the company’s performance as against its industry competitors and based on total shareholder return, for which the vesting percentage is determined over a three year performance period from the date of grant. In September 2017, the Employee Stock Option Scheme was launched with an additional performance condition of sustained earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (‘EBITDA’) for which the vesting percentage is determined over a three year financial year performance period. The Vedanta Cash Plan was introduced in March 2017 and is linked to Vedanta’s share price for the selected employees who are not covered under the Vedanta Performance Share Plan and Vedanta Limited’s Employee Stock Option Scheme. The Vedanta Cash plan is based on the same performance conditions as the Vedanta Performance Share Plans and the employees covered under the plan receive cash as per vesting and performance conditions instead of shares for which the vesting percentage is determined over three-year performance period from the date of grant of such units. The Vedanta Cash Plan introduced in November 2017 with an additional performance condition of sustained EBITDA for which the vesting percentage is determined over a three year financial year performance period.

Additionally, Cairn provided the Cairn India Performance Option Plan for national employees (wherein options are vested post achievement of vesting and performance conditions). Under the Cairn India Performance Option, the options will vest and become exercisable at the end of the performance period which has been set by the remuneration committee at the time of grant, although such period will not be less than three years. However, the percentage of an option which vests on this date will be determined by the extent to which pre-determined performance conditions have been satisfied. Pursuant to the Cairn India Merger, the Cairn India Performance Option Plan have been converted to Cash Award which are based on the TSR performance and Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) share price as of March 27, 2017. This award was concluded in July 2017 with no additional grant to any employee. The relevant employees were covered under the Vedanta Limited Employee Stock Option Scheme.

Outstanding Awards or Options

As of March 31, 2018, our directors, executive officers and significant employees as a group held options under the Vedanta Performance Share Plan and Deferred Share Bonus Plan to acquire an aggregate of 3,525,673 ordinary shares of Vedanta representing approximately 0.09% of Vedanta’s share capital. The awards are exercisable at the end of the three-year performance period commencing from the date of each grant at an exercise price of $ 0.10 per ordinary share. The awards expire six months after their date of vesting. For more information, see “- Vedanta Performance Share Plan and Deferred Share Bonus Plan.”

As of March 31, 2018, our directors, executive officers and significant employees as a group held options under the Vedanta Limited Employee Stock Option Scheme to acquire an aggregate of 1,843,140 ordinary shares of Vedanta Limited representing approximately 0.05% of Vedanta Limited’s share capital. The awards are exercisable at the end of the three-year performance period commencing from the date of each grant at an exercise price of ₹ 1 per ordinary share. The awards expire six months after their date of vesting. For more information, see “- Vedanta Limited Employee Stock Option Scheme.”

As of March 31, 2018, our executive officers and significant employees as a group held options under the Vedanta Cash Based Plan to acquire an aggregate of 205,270 units converted to cash. The employees shall be eligible for the awards at the end of the three year performance period commencing from the date of each grant. For more information, see “- Vedanta Cash Based Plan”

Employee Benefit Plans

We maintain employee benefit plans in the form of certain statutory and welfare schemes covering substantially all of our employees. As of March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, the total amount set aside by us to provide pension, retirement or similar benefits was ₹ 1,893 million and ₹ 2,748 million ($ 42 million), respectively.

Provident Fund

In accordance with Indian law, all of our employees in India are entitled to receive benefits under the provident fund, defined contribution plan and defined benefit plan (owned trust) to which both the Company and the employee contribute monthly at a pre-determined rate (currently 12.0% of the employee’s base salary). These contributions are made to the provident fund and we also participate in defined contribution schemes in Australia, Namibia, South Africa and Ireland. We have no further obligation under these schemes apart from our regular contributions, except in case of funds classified as defined benefit plan. We contributed an aggregate of ₹ 1,195 million and ₹ 1,029 million ($ 16 million) to all these schemes in fiscal years 2017 and 2018, respectively.

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Gratuity

In accordance with Indian law, we provide for gratuity pursuant to a defined benefit retirement plan covering all of our employees in India. The gratuity plan provides a lump sum payment to vested employees at retirement, disability or termination of employment, in an amount based on the employee’s last drawn salary and the number of years of employment with us. The assets of the plan, to the extent the plan is funded, are held in separate funds managed by the Life Insurance Corporation and a full actuarial valuation of the plan is performed on an annual basis. Our liability for the gratuity plan was ₹ 1,280 million and ₹ 2,073 million ($ 32 million) as at the end of fiscal years 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Post-Retirement Medical Benefits

The scheme is framed with a view to provide medical benefits to the regular employees of BALCO and BMM and their spouses subsequent to their retirement on completion of tenure including retirement on medical grounds and voluntary retirement on contributory basis. This scheme is unfunded. Our liability for the post retirement medical benefits was ₹ 613 million and ₹ 675 million ($ 10 million) as at the end of fiscal years 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Superannuation Fund

It is our current policy for all of our non-unionized employees in a managerial position and above to pay into a superannuation fund a sum equal to 15.0% of their annual base salary which is payable to the employee in a lump sum upon his retirement or termination of employment. We contributed an aggregate of ₹ 213 million and ₹ 201 million ($ 3 million) in fiscal years 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Compensated Absence

Our liability for compensated absences is determined on an undiscounted basis for short term liabilities and on an actuarial basis for long term liabilities, for the entire unused vacation balance standing to the credit of each employee at each calendar year-end. Contributions to such liability are charged to income in the year in which they accrue. Liability for the compensated absences was ₹ 1,213 million and ₹ 1,483 million ($ 23 million) as at the end of fiscal years 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Vedanta Performance Share Plan (“Vedanta PSP”) and Deferred Share Bonus Plan (“DSBP”)

We are a participating company in the Vedanta PSP and DSBP which was adopted by Vedanta to grant share options to its employees or employees of its subsidiaries. Awards under the plan may be granted to any employee of Vedanta or any of its subsidiaries who is not within six months of such employee’s normal retirement date.

The awards are indexed to and settled by Vedanta shares. The awards provide for a fixed exercise price denominated in Vedanta’s functional currency at 10 US cents per share. Vedanta is obligated to issue the shares upon achieving a satisfactory performance as per the applicable scheme. In accordance with the terms of agreement between Vedanta and us, the grant date fair value of the awards is recovered by Vedanta from us. The amount recovered by Vedanta has been recognized as compensation expense over the requisite service period of three years.

The Vedanta PSP is consistent with our reward philosophy, which aims to provide superior rewards for outstanding performance, and to provide a high proportion of “at risk” remuneration for executive directors and senior employees. The maximum value of Vedanta ordinary shares which may be conditionally awarded in any financial year to a participant in the Vedanta PSP who is an executive director is restricted to 150% of that executive director’s annual base salary.

The Vedanta PSP 2015 shall vest three years from the date of the grant based on the Group’s relative TSR performance against the peer group of resource companies and continued employment with the Group. These options will be awarded to employees under the PSP with effect from December 30, 2015 for which the vesting condition will be the performance period of 36 months from December 30, 2015 to December 29, 2018. The Vedanta PSP 2016 shall vest three years from the date of the grant based on the Group’s relative TSR performance against the peer group of resource companies and continued employment with the Group. These options will be awarded to employees under the PSP with effect from November 11, 2016 for which the vesting condition will be the performance period of 36 months from November 11, 2016 to November 10, 2019. The Vedanta PSP 2017 shall vest three years from the date of the grant based on the Group’s relative TSR performance against the peer group of resource companies and continued employment with the Group. These options will be awarded to employees under the PSP with effect from November 14, 2017 for which the vesting condition will be the performance period of 36 months from November 14, 2017 to November 13, 2020. The DSBP is not subject to any performance conditions and the vesting schedule is staggered over a period of two or three years.

174

Vedanta Limited Employee Stock Option Scheme (“Vedanta Limited ESOS”)

The shareholders of the Company by way of postal ballot on March 30, 2015 approved the Vedanta Limited ESOS and issue of securities to the employees of the Company and its holding or subsidiary companies. No options were granted to the employees under such scheme. Thereafter, the shareholders of the Company by way of postal ballot on December 12, 2016 approved a revised scheme, Vedanta Limited ESOS 2016 and issue of securities to the employees of the Company and its holding or subsidiary companies. Awards under the plan may be granted to any employee of Vedanta Limited or any of its holding or subsidiary companies who is not within six months of such employee’s normal retirement date. The awards are indexed to and settled by Vedanta Limited shares. The awards provide for a fixed exercise price denominated in Vedanta Limited’s functional currency at ₹ 1 per share. The Vedanta Limited ESOS 2016 is consistent with the reward philosophy, which aims to provide superior rewards for outstanding performance, and to provide a high proportion of “at risk” remuneration for the employees. The Vedanta Limited ESOS 2016 shall vest three years from the date of the grant based on the Group’s relative TSR performance against the peer group of resource companies and continued employment with the Group. These options will be awarded to employees under the ESOS with effect from December 15, 2016 for which the vesting condition will be the performance period of 36 months from December 15, 2016 to December 14, 2019. The Vedanta Limited ESOS 2017 shall vest three years from the date of the grant based on the Group’s relative TSR performance against the peer group of resource companies, sustained EBITDA over the three financial years falling within the performance period and continued employment with the Group. These options will be awarded to employees under the Vedanta Limited ESOS with effect from September 1, 2017 for which the vesting condition will be the performance period of 36 months from September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2020.

Vedanta Cash Based Plan (“Vedanta CBP”)

The grant under the long term Vedanta CBP is a combination of individual contribution and business performance. The vesting of such units will be a factor of pre-determined performance criteria based on Vedanta’s performance relative to the competition and continued employment with the Company. The Vedanta CBP shall vest three years from the date of grant based on Group’s relative TSR performance against the peer group of resource companies and continued employment with the Group. These options will be awarded to employees under the Vedanta CBP with effect from March 2, 2017 for which the vesting condition will be the performance period of 36 months from March 2, 2017 to March 1, 2020. The options under the Cash Based Plan for 2017 will be awarded to employees under the Vedanta CBP with effect from November 14, 2017 for which the vesting condition will be the performance period of 36 months from November, 14, 2017 to November 13, 2020.

Cairn India Performance Option Plan (including Phantom Cairn India Performance Option Plan) (“CIPOP”)

Cairn provided the CIPOP to its eligible employees or eligible employees of its subsidiaries. The CIPOP is consistent with Cairn’s total compensation philosophy, which aims to attract, motivate and retain world class talent. Rewards are commensurate with share price performance and achievement of key performance metrics and aligning the management’s interests with shareholder returns and long-term performance of the company.

Awards under the CIPOP in July 2014 were vested on the third anniversary of the grant based on the vesting and performance condition of relative TSR (performance of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s ordinary share price against the peer group of oil and gas companies and NSE Nifty index), employee performance rating and continued employment with Cairn. These options were awarded to employees with effect from July 22, 2014 which vested on the third anniversary (July 22, 2017). Pursuant to the Cairn India Merger, the CIPOP have been converted to cash award based on the TSR performance and Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) share price as of March 27, 2017. The cash awards were paid on the third anniversary of the grant. This award was concluded in July 2017 with no additional grant to any employee. The relevant employees were covered under the Vedanta Limited Employee Stock Option Scheme.

As of March 31, 2018, our executive directors, executive officers and significant employees as a group held options under the Vedanta PSP to acquire an aggregate of 1,233,540 equity shares of Vedanta representing approximately 0.03% of Vedanta’s share capital. The following table summarizes, as of March 31, 2018, the options granted to our directors, executive officers and significant employees under the Vedanta PSP Scheme:


	Shares Underlying the Vedanta PSP Schemes Grant date
Name	December 30, 2015⁽¹⁾		November 11, 2016⁽²⁾		November 14, 2017⁽³⁾		Total
Navin Agarwal		130,000		125,000		122,440		377,440
Tom Albanese		200,000		140,000		—		340,000
Kuldip Kaura		—		—		—		—
Tarun Jain		85,000		—		—		85,000
GR Arun Kumar		30,000		—		—		30,000
Dilip Golani		30,000		—		—		30,000
Mansoor Siddiqi		—		—		—		—
Roma Balwani		13,000		—		—		13,000
Samir Cairae		32,000		—		—		32,000
Suresh Bose		15,000		—		—		15,000
Philip Turner		12,000		—		—		12,000
Rajagopal Kishore Kumar		40,000		—		—		40,000
Arun Arora		—		—		—		—
Scot Caithness		—		—		—		—
Anup Agarwal		10,000		—		—		10,000
Sunil Duggal		40,000		—		—		40,000
Amitabh Gupta		25,000		—		—		25,000
Deshnee Naidoo		25,000		—		—		25,000
Pushpender Singla		3,600		—		—		3,600
Sudhir Mathur		—		—		—		—
Pankaj Kalra		—		—		—		—
Naveen Kumar Singhal		25,000		—		—		25,000
Azad Shaw		8,000		—		—		8,000
P. Ramnath		30,000		—		—		30,000
Amit Agarwal		5,000		—		—		5,000
Abhijit Pati		35,000		—		—		35,000
Vikas Sharma		17,500		—		—		17,500
Ajay Kumar Dixit		35,000		—		—		35,000
Bharat Goenka		—		—		—		—
Total		846,100		265,000		122,440		1,233,540

Notes:

(1)	The underlying shares shall vest three years from the date of grant i.e. on December 30, 2018, based on the TSR ranking as well as tenure served by employees as per the scheme. The options shall expire after six months from the date of vesting.

(2)	The underlying shares shall vest three years from the date of grant i.e. on November 1, 2019, based on the TSR ranking as well as tenure served by employees as per the scheme. The options shall expire after six months from the date of vesting.

(3)	The underlying shares shall vest three years from the date of grant i.e. on November 13, 2020, based on the achievement of performance conditions and completion of tenure with the Group. The options shall expire after six months from the date of vesting.

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The following table summarizes, as of March 31, 2018, the options granted to our directors, executive officers and significant employees under the Vedanta Limited ESOS Scheme:


Name	Shares Underlying the Vedanta Limited ESOS Scheme December 15, 2016⁽¹⁾		Vedanta Limited ESOS Scheme September 1, 2017⁽²⁾
Navin Agarwal		—		—
Tom Albanese		—		—
Kuldip Kaura		—		—
Tarun Jain		183,000		111,980
GR Arun Kumar		75,000		66,070
Dilip Golani		75,000		52,030
Mansoor Siddiqi		—		—
Roma Balwani		26,500		—
Samir Cairae		90,000		57,970
Suresh Bose		32,200		22,470
Philip Turner		—		—
Rajagopal Kishore Kumar		72,000		55,150
Arun Arora		—		22,440
Scot Caithness		—		—
Anup Agarwal		29,600		23,670
Sunil Duggal		100,000		75,550
Amitabh Gupta		70,900		49,880
Deshnee Naidoo		—		—
Pushpender Singla		—		—
Sudhir Mathur		—		66,330
Pankaj Kalra		—		34,690
Naveen Kumar Singhal		70,900		46,250
Azad Shaw		23,900		19,820
P. Ramnath		—		45,600
Amit Agarwal		16,200		11,240
Abhijit Pati		76,000		52,310
Vikas Sharma		45,000		38,070
Ajay Kumar Dixit		65,000		46,430
Bharat Goenka		—		17,450
Total		1,051,200		915,400

Notes:

(1)	The underlying shares shall vest three years from the date of grant (December 14, 2019), based on the TSR ranking as well as tenure served by employees as per the scheme. The options shall expire after six months from the date of vesting.

(2)	The underlying shares shall vest three years from the date of grant (August 31, 2020), based on the TSR ranking, Sustained EBITDA as well as tenure served by employees as per the scheme. The options shall expire after six months from the date of vesting.

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The following table summarizes, as of March 31, 2018, the options granted to our directors, executive officers and significant employees under the Vedanta CBP:


	Shares Underlying the Vedanta CBP Schemes Grant date
Name	March 2, 2017⁽¹⁾		November 14, 2017⁽²⁾		Total
Navin Agarwal		—		—		—
Tom Albanese		—		—		—
Kuldip Kaura		25,900		34,580		60,840
Tarun Jain		—		—		—
GR Arun Kumar		—		—		—
Dilip Golani		—		—		—
Mansoor Siddiqi		22,290		19,190		41,480
Roma Balwani		—		—		—
Samir Cairae		—		—		—
Suresh Bose		—		—		—
Philip Turner		13,370		11,640		25,010
Rajagopal Kishore Kumar		—		—		—
Arun Arora		—		—		—
Scot Caithness		—		12,920		12,920
Anup Agarwal		—		—		—
Sunil Duggal		—		—		—
Amitabh Gupta		—		—		—
Deshnee Naidoo		19,490		23,600		43,090
Pushpender Singla		8,920		8,310		17,230
Sudhir Mathur		—		—		—
Pankaj Kalra		—		—		—
Naveen Kumar Singhal		—		—		—
Azad Shaw		—		—		—
P. Ramnath		22,290		—		22,290
Amit Agarwal		—		—		—
Abhijit Pati		—		—		—
Vikas Sharma		—		—		—
Ajay Kumar Dixit		—		—		—
Bharat Goenka		—		—		—
Total		112,260		110,240		222,500

Notes:

(1)	The underlying cash based units shall vest three years from the date of grant (March 1, 2020), based on the TSR ranking as well as tenure served by employees as per the scheme

(2)	The underlying cash based units shall vest three years from the date of grant (November 13, 2020), based on the TSR ranking as well as tenure served by employees as per the scheme.

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Limitations on Liability and Indemnification Matters

The Companies Act, 2013 provides an enabling provision for providing indemnity to directors and officers. The terms of the service contract with the Whole Time Directors provides that the Company shall indemnify and keep the director indemnified from and against all claims, demands, actions, suits and proceedings, penalties and punitive damages, attorney’s fees and such reasonable expenses arising out of any claim / litigation whatsoever that may be brought or made against the Director in relation to performance of duties assigned or arising out of normal course of the business of the Company.

The Companies Act, 2013 also provides that where any insurance is taken by a company on behalf of its Managing Director, Whole Time Director, Manager, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer or Company Secretary for indemnifying any of them against any liability in respect of any negligence, default, misfeasance, breach of duty or breach of trust for which they may be guilty in relation to the company, the premium paid on such insurance shall not be treated as part of the remuneration payable to any such personnel; provided that if such person is proved to be guilty, the premium paid on such insurance shall be treated as part of the remuneration.

C. Board Practices

Compensation of the Board

Under the Indian Companies Act, our shareholders must approve the salary, bonus and benefits of all directors at an annual general meeting of the shareholders or through a postal ballot.

Navin Agarwal is entitled to be paid a fixed salary inclusive of Base Pay, commission and retirement benefits (Provident Fund, Gratuity and Superannuation) in addition to which he is eligible for performance incentives (based upon the scheme) to be determined by our Board and perquisites including a housing allowance, medical and insurance reimbursement, club membership fees reimbursement and leave travel concessions for himself and his family and also a commission based on our net profits for a particular fiscal year as determined by our Board, subject to a maximum allowable under Indian Law.

Tom Albanese was entitled to be paid a base pay, pension allowance of 20% on base pay, in addition to which he was eligible for performance incentives (based upon the scheme) to be determined by our Board and perquisites including rent free accommodation, club membership, travel trip with spouse, medical and other benefits as per the executed service agreement.

Tarun Jain is entitled to be paid a fixed salary inclusive of base pay, house rent allowance, personal allowance, and retirement benefits (provident fund, gratuity and superannuation), in addition to which he is eligible for performance incentives (based upon the scheme) to be determined by our Board and perquisites including medical and insurance reimbursement, club membership fees reimbursement and leave travel concessions for himself and his family. Tarun Jain is entitled to receive a bonus equal to 20% of his base pay.

GR Arun Kumar is entitled to be paid a basic salary, house rent allowance, personal allowance, and retirement benefits (provident fund, gratuity and superannuation), in addition to which he is eligible for performance incentives (based upon the scheme) to be determined by our Board and perquisites including medical and insurance reimbursement, club membership fees reimbursement and leave travel concessions for himself and his family. GR Arun Kumar is entitled to receive a bonus equal to 20% of his basic salary.

Composition of the Board

Our Board currently consists of nine directors. Five of our nine directors, namely, Ravi Kant, Lalita D. Gupte, K. Venkataramanan, Aman Mehta and Upendra Kumar Sinha satisfy the “independence” requirements of the NYSE rules. Naresh Chandra another Independent Director ceased to be member of the Board on his demise effective July 9, 2017.

Navin Agarwal entered into a service contract with us, which will expire on July 31, 2018. Navin Agarwal was re-appointed as a Whole Time Director with effect from August 1, 2018 to July 31, 2023, subject to shareholders approval at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. With effect from April 1, 2014, Tom Albanese and Tarun Jain were appointed on our Board. Tom Albanese entered into a service contract with us, which expired on March 31, 2017. Tom Albanese was re-appointed from April 1, 2017 to August 31, 2017 and entered into a service contract accordingly. Tom Albanese ceased to be member of the Board with effect from August 31, 2017. Tarun Jain entered into a service contract with us, which expired on March 31, 2018. Tarun Jain was re-appointed from April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019, subject to shareholders approval at the ensuing Annual General Meeting and entered into a service contract accordingly. Either we or the director may terminate the respective service contract upon 90 days’ notice to the other party or payment in lieu of the notice period. None of the service contracts provide for benefits upon termination of their employment. Ravi Kant and Lalita D. Gupte were appointed for a fixed term of three years effective as of January 29, 2015 to January 28, 2018. Lalita D. Gupte was re-appointed for an additional term of three years with effect from January 28, 2018 to August 10, 2021 and Ravi Kant was re-appointed for a second term with effect from January 28, 2018 to May 31, 2019, both subject to shareholders approval at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. Naresh Chandra ceased to be member of the Board on his demise with effect from July 9, 2017. GR Arun Kumar was appointed on our Board as a Whole Time Director with effect from November 22, 2016 for a period of three years up to November 21, 2019. Krishnamurthi Venkataramanan was appointed as an Additional Director effective April 1, 2017 and as Non-Executive Director for a fixed term of three years with effect from April 1, 2017 to March 31, 2020. Aman Mehta was appointed as an Additional Director effective May 17, 2017 and as Non-Executive Independent Director for a fixed term of three years with effect from May 17, 2017 to May 16, 2020. Priya Agarwal was appointed as an Additional Director effective May 17, 2017 and as Non-Executive Director for a fixed term of three years with effect from May 17, 2017 to May 16, 2020. K. Venkataramanan, Aman Mehta and Priya Agarwal appointment was approved by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting held on July 14, 2017. Upendra Kumar Sinha was appointed as an Additional Director for a fixed term from March 13, 2018 to August 10, 2021 subject to shareholders approval at the ensuing Annual General Meeting. They serve as directors on our Board until their resignation or removal from office by a resolution of our shareholders, until they cease to be directors by virtue of the provision of law or they are disqualified by law or under our articles of association from being directors. Ravi Kant, Lalita D. Gupte, K. Venkataramanan, Aman Mehta, Upendra Kumar Sinha and Priya Agarwal do not have any service contracts with the Company.

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Committees of the Board

Our equity shares are currently listed and traded on the NSE and the BSE, and our ADSs are currently listed and traded on the NYSE. In addition to compliance with the NYSE corporate governance rules applicable to us as a foreign private issuer, we maintain our corporate governance arrangements in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (“SEBI (LODR) Regulations 2015”) and the Indian regulations as per the requirements of Companies Act, 2013. In particular, we have established an Audit Committee, a Nomination and Remuneration Committee, a Corporate Social Responsibility Committee, a Stakeholders Relationship Committee, Risk Management Committee and a Share and Debenture Transfer Committee in accordance with the Indian corporate governance requirements. The composition and general responsibilities of each of these committees are described below.

Audit Committee

During fiscal year 2018, the Audit Committee held 5 meetings.

The Audit Committee currently consists of Lalita D. Gupte as the Chairperson and Ravi Kant, Aman Mehta and Upendra Kumar Sinha as members.

Lalita D. Gupte was appointed the Chairperson of the Audit Committee with effect from March 29, 2014. Ravi Kant was appointed as a member of the Audit Committee with effect from March 29, 2014. The Committee has been re-constituted on July 12, 2017 with Lalita D. Gupte continuing to be the Chairperson and Ravi Kant and Aman Mehta as members. The Committee was further re-constituted on March 28, 2018 with Lalita D. Gupte continuing to be the Chairperson and Ravi Kant, Aman Mehta and Upendra Kumar Sinha as members.

Each of Lalita D. Gupte, Ravi Kant, Aman Mehta and Upendra Kumar Sinha satisfy the “independence” requirements of Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act and the NYSE rules. Lalita D. Gupte is designated as our “audit committee financial expert”, within the requirements of the rules promulgated by the SEC relating to listed-company audit committees.

The principal duties and responsibilities of our Audit Committee are as follows:

•

to serve as an independent and objective party to monitor our financial reporting process and internal control systems;

•

to review and appraise the audit efforts of our independent accountants and exercise ultimate authority over the relationship between us and our independent accountants; and

•

to provide an open avenue of communication among the independent accountants, financial and senior management and the board of directors.

The Audit Committee has the power to investigate any matter brought to its attention within the scope of its duties. It also has the authority to retain counsel and advisors to fulfill its responsibilities and duties.

Nomination and Remuneration Committee

During fiscal year 2018, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee held 6 meetings.

The Nomination and Remuneration Committee comprises of Aman Mehta as the Chairman and Lalita D. Gupte, Ravi Kant and Navin Agarwal as members. Naresh Chandra was appointed as the Chairman of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee with effect from March 29, 2014. Naresh Chandra ceased as a member of the Committee effective July 9, 2017 on his demise. The Nomination and Remuneration Committee has been re-constituted on July 12, 2017 with Aman Mehta as Chairman and Lalita D. Gupte, Ravi Kant and Navin Agarwal as members of the Committee.

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Section 178 of the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI (LODR) Regulations 2015, requires a Nomination and Remuneration Committee to consist of three or more non-executive directors out of which not less than one half of the members shall be Independent Directors, provided the Chairperson of the Company is appointed as a member of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee and shall not chair such Committee. Our Nomination and Remuneration Committee complies with this requirement which comprises of four members of which three members are Independent Directors and one is an Executive Director who is our Executive Chairman. The chairperson of the Committee is a Non-Executive Independent Director. The principal duties and responsibilities of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee are as follows:

•

to formulate criteria for determining qualifications, positive attributes and independence of a Director and recommending policies relating to the remuneration of the Directors, Key Managerial Personnel and other employees to the Board of Directors;

•

to identify persons who are qualified to become Directors and who may be appointed in senior management, and recommend their appointment and/or removal to the Board of Directors;

•

to formulate criteria for evaluating the performance of Independent Directors and the Board of Directors;

•

to consider whether to extend or continue the term of appointment of the Independent Directors, on the basis of the performance evaluations of such Independent Director; and

•

to devise a diversity policy for the Board of Directors;

Under the NYSE listing standards, listed companies must have a remuneration committee composed entirely of independent board members as defined by the NYSE listing standards. However, foreign private issuers such as us, are permitted to follow their respective home country rules in this regard. As a foreign private issuer, we are permitted to follow home country corporate governance practices and since we comply with the Indian regulations in relation to the independence requirements of the remuneration committee, we are not required to follow the NYSE listing standards for an all independent remuneration committee. The broad terms of reference of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee are to appraise the performance of Managing and/or Executive Directors, determine and recommend to the Board the compensation payable to them. This committee is responsible for recommending the fixation and periodic revision of remunerations (including commissions and/or incentives, etc.) of whole-time directors and executive directors. This is done after taking into account our profits and performance, external competitive environment and our growth plans and the company policy on rewarding achievements and performance. Payment of remuneration to the Executive Chairman and Whole Time Director is governed by the respective agreements executed between them and the Company and are governed by the board and shareholder resolutions. The remuneration structure comprises of salary, commission linked to profits, perquisites and allowances, retirement benefits (pension, superannuation and gratuity) and performance incentives (based upon the scheme) to be determined by our Board.

Share and Debenture Transfer Committee

During fiscal year 2018, the Share and Debenture Transfer Committee held 18 meetings.

The transfer of equity shares of the Company is approved by the Share and Debenture Transfer Committee, which meets regularly to approve share transfers. The Share and Debenture Transfer Committee consisted of GR Arun Kumar, Pooja Yadava and Bhumika Sood as members. This Committee was re-constituted on June 26, 2018 with GR Arun Kumar, Anup Agarwal, Pooja Yadava and Jagdeep Singh as members.

Corporate Social Responsibility Committee

During fiscal year 2018, the Corporate Social Responsibility Committee held 2 meetings.

Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 along with Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014 mandates companies with revenue, net worth or profitability beyond a prescribed limit to form a corporate social responsibility committee. This committee should comprise of three or more directors with at least one of them being an independent director. The Corporate Social Responsibility Committee re-constituted effective July 12, 2017 with Ravi Kant as the Chairman and Aman Mehta, K. Venkataramanan, Tarun Jain and Priya Agarwal as members. The Corporate Social Responsibility Committee further re-constituted on March 28, 2018 with Ravi Kant as the Chairman and Aman Mehta, K. Venkataramanan, Tarun Jain, Priya Agarwal and Upendra Kumar Sinha as members. We comply with this rule as three of the five members of this committee (all of whom are directors on the Board) are independent directors.

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The principal duties and responsibilities of our Corporate Social Responsibility Committee are as follows:

•

to formulate and recommend to the Board a corporate social responsibility policy which shall indicate the activities to be undertaken by the company as specified in Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013;

•

to recommend the amount of expenditure to be incurred on the activities referred above;

•

to review the performance of the company in the area of corporate social responsibility;

•

to provide guidance on the impact of business activities on environment and society; and

•

to monitor the corporate social responsibility policy of the company from time to time.

Stakeholders Relationship Committee

During fiscal year 2018, the Stakeholders Relationship Committee held 1 meeting.

The Stakeholders Relationship Committee comprises of Lalita D. Gupte as the Chairman and K. Venkataramanan, Tarun Jain, GR Arun Kumar and Upendra Kumar Sinha as members. The Stakeholders Relationship Committee was re-constituted on April 1, 2017 with Lalita D Gupte as Chairperson and K. Venkataramanan and Tarun Jain as members. This Committee was further re-constituted effective July 12, 2017 with Lalita D Gupte continuing to be the Chairperson and K. Venkataramanan, Tarun Jain and GR Arun Kumar as members. This Committee was further re-constituted effective March 28, 2018 with Lalita D Gupte continuing to be the Chairperson and K. Venkataramanan, Tarun Jain, GR Arun Kumar and Upendra Kumar Sinha as members.

Three of the members are Independent Directors and the other two members are Whole Time Directors. The principal duties and responsibilities of the Stakeholders Relationship Committee are to oversee the reports received from the registrar and transfer agent and to facilitate the prompt and effective resolution of complaints from our shareholders and investors and carrying out any other function as prescribed in the SEBI Listing Regulations.

Risk Management Committee

During fiscal year 2018, the Risk Management Committee held 3 meetings.

Pursuant to regulation 21 of the LODR Regulations 2015, the Company has constituted a Risk Management Committee. The Risk Management Committee currently consists of three members, including two Executive Directors and one member from the Senior Management/ Executive Committee namely Tarun Jain, GR Arun Kumar and Dilip Golani.

The purpose of the Risk Management Committee is to assist the Audit Committee and the Board in fulfilling its corporate governance oversight responsibilities with regard to the identification, evaluation, and mitigation of operational, strategic and external environment risks. The RMC has overall responsibility for monitoring and approving the risk policies and associated practices of the Company.

The principal duties and responsibilities of our Risk Management Committee are as follows:

•

to annually review and approve the risk management policy and associated frameworks, processes and practices of the Company and to recommend to the Audit Committee or the Board for approval or changes;

•

to ensure that the Company is taking appropriate measures to achieve prudent balance between risk and reward in both ongoing and new business activities;

•

to evaluate significant risk exposures of the Company and assess management’s action to mitigate the exposures in a timely manner;

•

to establish and implement a comprehensive reporting system; and

•

to assess risk on an ongoing basis and minimizing the procedures.

D. Employees

See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Business—Employees.”

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E. Share Ownership for Directors, Executive Officers and Significant Employees:

The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of our equity shares as of July 20, 2018 by each of our directors, executive officers and significant employees and all our directors, executive officers and significant employees as a group. As used in this table, beneficial ownership means the sole or shared power to vote or direct the voting or to dispose of or direct the sale of any security. A person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of securities that can be acquired within 60 days upon the exercise of any option, warrant or right. Equity shares subject to options, warrants or rights that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days are deemed outstanding for computing the ownership percentage of the person holding the options, warrants or rights. The amounts and percentages as of July 20, 2018 are based on an aggregate of 3,717,508,471 equity shares outstanding as of that date.


	Number of Shares Beneficially Owned
	As of July 20, 2018
Name of the Beneficial owner	Number		Percent
Anil Agarwal⁽¹⁾		1,863,458,132		50.13	%
Navin Agarwal		—		—
Tom Albanese		—		—
Kuldip Kaura		—		—
Ravi Kant		—		—
Lalita D. Gupte		—		—
Tarun Jain		—		—
Krishnamurthi Venkataramanan		—		—
Aman Mehta		—		—
Priya Agarwal		—		—
Dilip Golani		600		*
Mansoor Siddiqi		—		—
Roma Balwani		—		—
GR Arun Kumar		8,000		*
Suresh Bose		865		*
Samir Cairae		—		—
Philip Turner		—		—
Rajagopal Kishore Kumar		—		—
Arun Arora		—		—
Scot Caithness		—		—
Anup Agarwal		475		*
Amitabh Gupta		—		—
Sunil Duggal		—		—
Deshnee Naidoo		—		—
Pushpender Singla		900		*
Sudhir Mathur		22,948		*
Pankaj Kalra		—		—
Naveen Kumar Singhal		1,240		*
Azad Shaw		—		—
P. Ramnath		60		*
Amit Agarwal		380		*
Abhijit Pati		—		—
Vikas Sharma		—		—
Ajay Kumar Dixit		1,000		*
Bharat Goenka		—		—
All our directors, executive officers and significant employees as a group		1,863,494,600		50.13	%

Notes:

*	Represents beneficial ownership of less than 1.0%.

(1)	Vedanta is the beneficial owner of 1,863,458,132 equity shares of the Company. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions.” for further details on beneficial ownership of our equity shares.

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ITEM 7.

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

A. Major Shareholders

The following table sets forth information regarding beneficial ownership of our equity shares as of July 20, 2018 held by each person who is known to us to have 5.0% or more beneficial share ownership based on an aggregate of 3,717,196,639 equity shares outstanding as of that date.

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the SEC rules and includes shares over which the indicated beneficial owner exercises voting and/or investment power or receives the economic benefit of ownership of such securities. Equity shares subject to options currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days are deemed outstanding for the purposes of computing the percentage ownership of the person holding the options but are not deemed outstanding for the purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person.


Name of Beneficial Owner	Number of Shares Beneficially Owned		Percentage Beneficially Owned
Vedanta ⁽¹⁾		1,863,458,132		50.13	%

Note:

(1)	Vedanta is the beneficial owner of 1,863,458,132 equity shares of the Company, consisting of:

(i)

1,280,084,749 equity shares and 24,823,177 ADSs held by Twin Star representing 99,292,708 underlying equity shares;

(ii)

401,496,480 equity shares held by Finsider;

(iii)

44,343,139 equity shares held by Westglobe; and

(iv)

38,241,056 equity shares held by Welter Trading.

Volcan is the majority shareholder of Vedanta, which in turn is the sole shareholder of VRHL, which in turn is the sole shareholder of each of Twin Star and VRFL. VRFL is the sole shareholder of VRCL, which in turn is the sole shareholder of each of Welter Trading and Richter. Richter is the sole shareholder of Westglobe and the majority shareholder of Finsider. Volcan is wholly beneficially owned by the Trust. Conclave is the trustee of the Trust and the sole registered shareholder of Volcan. Mr. Anil Agarwal, the Executive Chairman of Vedanta and protector of the Trust, may be deemed to have beneficial ownership of securities that are deemed beneficially owned by the Trust and with effect from October 16, 2014, Mr. Anil Agarwal is one of the beneficiaries of the Trust. Vedanta, Volcan, the Trust, Conclave and Mr. Anil Agarwal are parties to a relationship agreement that is intended to ensure that Volcan, as Vedanta’s controlling shareholder, complies with the independence provisions of the UK Financial Conduct Authority’s listing rules. See “B. Related Party Transactions—Related Parties—Vedanta” for more information on relationship agreement.

Significant Changes in Percentage of Ownership

The following table sets forth the significant changes in the shareholding interests of our Company by our principal shareholders in our equity shares in the last three fiscal years. Except as disclosed below, there were no significant changes in the percentage of ownership in our Company in the last three fiscal years. Percentages set forth below are based on the number of equity shares outstanding as of the dates set forth below.


	As of March 31,															As of July 20,
Name and Type of Shares	2016					2017					2018					2018
	Number		Percent			Number		Percent			Number		Percent			Number		Percent
Vedanta
Equity shares		1,863,458,132		62.85	%		1,863,458,132		62.85	%		1,863,458,132		50.13	%		1,863,458,132		50.13	%

As of July 20, 2018 there were approximately 546,487 holders of our equity shares of which 507 shareholders have registered addresses in the US. As of the same date, 260,108,296 equity shares representing 65,027,074 of our ADSs, representing 6.99% of our outstanding equity shares were held by a total of 9 registered holders of record with addresses in and outside of the US. Since certain of these equity shares and ADSs were held by brokers or other nominees, the number of record holders in the US may not be representative of the number of beneficial holders or where the beneficial holders are resident. Each of our equity shares is entitled to one vote on all matters that require a vote of shareholders, and none of our shareholders has any contractual or other special voting rights.

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B. Related Party Transactions

The following is a summary of the material transactions we have engaged with our controlling shareholder, Vedanta, and its subsidiaries and other related parties, including those where our management or we have a significant equity interest. In addition, the following contains a discussion of how we intend to handle conflicts of interest and allocations of business opportunities between us and our affiliates, directors and executive officers. For a further discussion of related party transactions, See Note 31 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

Related Parties

Volcan and the Agarwal Family

As of July 20, 2018 Volcan holds 61.60% of the share capital and 68.62% of the voting rights of Vedanta. Volcan is 100% beneficially owned and controlled by the Trust. Conclave is the trustee of the Trust and sole registered shareholder of Volcan, and consequently controls all voting and investment decisions of the Trust. Mr. Anil Agarwal, the Executive Chairman of Vedanta and our Chairman Emeritus, is the protector of the Trust and with effect from October 16, 2014, is one of the beneficiaries of the Trust. Vedanta, Volcan, the Trust, Conclave and Mr. Anil Agarwal are parties to a relationship agreement that is intended to ensure that Volcan, as Vedanta’s controlling shareholder, complies with the independence provisions of the Financial Conduct Authority’s listing rules in the UK.

Vedanta

Vedanta, Volcan, the Trust, Conclave and Mr. Anil Agarwal are parties to a relationship agreement. The principal purpose of the relationship agreement is to facilitate the carrying on of Vedanta’s business independently of Volcan and its direct and indirect shareholders, and their respective associates, or the “Volcan Parties” as required by the listing rules of the Financial Conduct Authority of the United Kingdom, and to ensure that transactions between the parties to the agreement are conducted at arm’s length and on a normal commercial basis. Any deviation from the agreement is duly approved by the Independent directors of Vedanta. The relationship agreement will terminate in respect of Volcan at such time as each of the Volcan Parties, acting individually or jointly by agreement, cease to be a controlling shareholder of Vedanta for the purposes of the listing rules of the Financial Conduct Authority or if Vedanta is de-listed from the London Stock Exchange (“LSE”). In addition, the relationship agreement will terminate in respect of Conclave and Mr. Anil Agarwal if either of them individually or acting jointly ceases to be a controlling shareholder of Vedanta or Volcan. Currently, a controlling shareholder of a company for the purposes of the listing rules of the UK Financial Conduct Authority is any person (or persons acting jointly by agreement whether formal or otherwise) who is entitled to exercise, or to control the exercise of 30.0% or more of the rights to vote at general meetings of such company or is able to control the appointment of directors who are able to exercise a majority of the votes at Board meetings of such company.

Under the relationship agreement:

•

Volcan and Conclave undertake with Vedanta that:

(a)

no member of the Volcan Group nor any of their associates will take any action that would have the effect of preventing Vedanta from complying with its obligations under the listing rules of the UK Financial Conduct Authority; and

(b)

no member of the Volcan Group nor any of their associates will propose or procure the proposal of a shareholder resolution which is intended or appears to be intended to circumvent the proper application of the listing rules of the UK Financial Conduct Authority.

•

the parties agree to ensure that Vedanta is capable, at all times, of carrying on its business independently of the Volcan Parties as required by the listing rules of the Financial Conduct Authority;

•

Vedanta’s board of directors and nominations committee and any other committee of Vedanta’s Board of directors (other than the audit committee or the remuneration committee or any committee which may be established by the board of directors in connection with a specific transaction, the constitution of which is approved by the board of directors) to which significant powers, authorities or discretions are delegated shall at all times comprise a majority of directors who are independent of the Volcan Parties and who are free from any business or other relationship with the Volcan Parties which could materially interfere with the exercise of the director’s judgment concerning Vedanta;

•

Vedanta’s remuneration committee and audit committee shall at all times consist only of non-executive directors;

•

Volcan is entitled to nominate for appointment to the board of directors of Vedanta such number of persons as is one less than the number of directors who are independent of the Volcan Parties and who are free from any business or other relationship with the Volcan Parties which could materially interfere with the exercise of the director’s judgment concerning Vedanta;

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•

neither Mr. Anil Agarwal nor any non-independent directors shall be permitted, unless the independent directors agree otherwise, to vote on any resolutions of Vedanta’s board of directors or of a committee of the board to approve the entry into, variation, amendment, novation or abrogation or enforcement of any contract, arrangement or transaction with any of the Volcan Parties;

•

Volcan shall not exercise voting rights attaching to its shares in Vedanta or any resolution to approve the entry into, variation, amendment, novation or abrogation of any transactions or arrangements between Vedanta and the Volcan Parties;

•

the Volcan Parties represented and warranted to Vedanta that at the time of the execution of the relationship agreement they did not own, directly or indirectly, any interests in the smelting, refining, mining or sale of any base metals or mineral otherwise than through Vedanta or any member of the Vedanta group;

•

the Volcan Parties agreed to, directly or indirectly, acquire or otherwise invest in any company, business, business operation or other enterprise which engages in the smelting, refining or mining of base metals or minerals only through Vedanta or other member of the Vedanta group. However, this agreement does not prevent, restrict or limit:

(a)

the acquisition or ownership by the Volcan Parties of not more than 5.0% in aggregate of any class of shares, debentures or other securities in issue from time to time of any company which engages in the smelting, refining or mining of base metals or minerals which is for the time being listed on any stock exchange; or

(b)

the acquisition or ownership, directly or indirectly, by the Volcan Parties of any interest in, a base metal or mineral property or asset (together with any associated property, plant and equipment), which is not adjacent or geographically proximate to an existing property or operation of Vedanta group so as to give them operational synergies, where the acquisition cost (including assumed indebtedness), including any related capital expenditures committed at the date of acquisition for the following 12 months, is equal to $ 50 million or less, for which purpose any acquisitions of two or more related or adjacent base metal or mineral properties or assets shall be aggregated when calculating the acquisition cost, provided that the relevant interested party (i) is not an officer or director of a Vedanta group company; and (ii) before acquiring such property or asset, first made the opportunity to acquire such property or asset available to the Vedanta group, with a reasonable period for the independent directors of Vedanta to consider the opportunity, on terms no less favorable than those on which they are proposed to be acquired by the interested party and a majority of the independent directors has determined that the Vedanta group should not make the acquisition; and

•

all transactions, arrangements and relationships between Vedanta and the Volcan Parties must be conducted at arm’s length and on a normal commercial basis.

Key Management Personnel

See “Note 31. Related Party Transactions of Notes to the consolidated financial statements.”

Related Party Transactions

Representative Office Agreement with Vedanta

SIIL entered into a representative office agreement with Vedanta on March 29, 2005 under which Vedanta agreed to provide technical and commercial materials to us to enable us to promote our business or raise funds overseas, and to be our non-exclusive overseas representative, for which we agreed to pay an amount of $ 2 million per year to Vedanta. This agreement expired on March 31, 2013.

Since the effectiveness of the Re-organization Transactions, we renewed this agreement on similar terms with Vedanta on May 20, 2014 for a period of 5 years. Under this renewed agreement, we have agreed to pay an amount of $ 2 million to Vedanta. This agreement was valid until March 2018.

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Consultancy Agreement with Vedanta

SIIL entered into a consultancy agreement with Vedanta on March 29, 2005 under which Vedanta agreed to provide strategic planning and consultancy services to us and our subsidiaries in various areas of business such that we are able to finalize and implement our plans for growth and are able to raise the necessary finances. The terms of this agreement were negotiated by us and Vedanta and we believe them to be fair and reasonable. Under this agreement, Vedanta agreed to make certain of its employees available to us. The anticipated fee used for reference in the agreement, which was based on a relevant proportion of the expected annual budgeted costs for fiscal year 2005 plus the mark-up of 40.0%, was $ 3 million per year. This agreement expired on March 31, 2013.

Since the effectiveness of the Re-organization Transactions, we have renewed this agreement with Vedanta on May 20, 2014 for a period of 5 years on similar terms. This agreement is valid until March 2018. Under this agreement, Vedanta has agreed to make certain of its employees available to us and we have agreed to pay a service fee to Vedanta on the basis of, among other things, the amount of time spent in providing the services and associated costs for which we have agreed to pay an amount of $ 3 million per year.

Outsourcing Services Agreement with Vedanta

SIIL entered into a service agreement with Vedanta on April 1, 2010, under which we agreed to provide accounting, treasury and related services at the request of Vedanta from time to time. In consideration of above, Vedanta agreed to pay us service charges aggregating to an amount of $ 0.2 million per year.

Since the effectiveness of the Re-organization Transactions, we renewed this agreement with Vedanta on May 20, 2014 for a period of 5 years. This agreement is valid until March 2018 and Vedanta has agreed to pay us service charges aggregating to an amount of $ 0.4 million per year with an annual increase of 10.0%. This agreement was further renewed for a period of 5 years from April 1, 2018 and is valid till March 2023. Further, Vedanta has agreed to pay us service charges aggregating to an amount of cost plus arm’s length mark-up per year.

Brand License Agreement with Vedanta

During fiscal year 2018, the Company entered into a brand license agreement with Vedanta under which Vedanta agreed to grant the Company a license to use the trademark “Vedanta” and its logo. In consideration of the grant of license by Vedanta, the Company has agreed to pay 0.75% of revenue of the Company. The agreement is valid until March 2020.

Relationship agreement between Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business), TMHL Vedanta and the Company

Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business), TMHL, Vedanta and the Company entered into a relationship agreement on December 8, 2011. This relationship agreement required each of Vedanta and Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business to exercise all of their respective powers and, so far as they are respectively able to do so, procure that the directors of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business exercise their respective powers to ensure that: (i) the business of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business is at all times carried on independently of any other member of Vedanta; (ii) all dealings between Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business and the rest of Vedanta are approved by the Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business audit committee; and (iii) the business of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business is managed for the benefit of its shareholders as a whole. The parties also agreed to use their reasonable endeavors to ensure that they can comply with their respective obligations under applicable law or under the rules of the stock exchanges on which their securities are traded. This relationship agreement required Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business to provide Vedanta with such information as it may require in order to comply with its legal, regulatory and reporting obligations for so long as Vedanta’s holding in Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business is at least 10% of the issued equity share capital of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business, it is agreed between the parties that, subject to certain limitations and subject to applicable law, Vedanta had the right to require Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business to take such steps as may be reasonably required by it in connection with any sale or disposal of Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business shares by any member of Vedanta. Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business was required to comply with such best practices, principles, standards, policies and provisions that Vedanta reasonably required and approved from time to time. As a result of the Cairn India Merger which became operative on April 11, 2017, the relationship agreement has been terminated.

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Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited and TMHL

During fiscal year 2014, pursuant to executing a deed of assignment between Vedanta and Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited, all the existing rights of the loan agreements mentioned below from (i) to (iii) were assigned to Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited and the new lender in the place of Vedanta is Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited.

(i)

During fiscal year 2011, TMHL entered into a loan facility agreement with Vedanta of $ 100 million which was extended until November 2012 and further extended until November 2013 with amended facility up to $ 350 million. During fiscal year 2014, the amount under this facility agreement has been extended until November 19, 2017 with an interest rate of LIBOR plus 362 basis points. During fiscal year 2016, the entire loan amount under this facility was repaid.

(ii)

During fiscal year 2012, TMHL entered into two loan facility agreements of $ 750 million each with Vedanta. The final repayment dates of the loans are May 24, 2016 and June 24, 2021 respectively, or on demand from the lender with 30 days notice. The loans are unsecured. Interest rates for the two loan facility agreements of $ 750 million are 7.95% and 9.45% per annum. During fiscal year 2015, TMHL repaid $ 750 million bearing an interest rate of 9.45% to Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited. During fiscal year 2016, the repayment date of the balance $ 750 million was extended to May 24, 2018 and $ 578.5 million bearing an interest rate of 9.45% was repaid to Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited. The outstanding balance under this facility at March 31, 2016 was $ 172 million. During fiscal year 2017, the entire loan amount under this agreement was repaid.

(iii)

During fiscal year 2012, TMHL entered into a loan facility agreement of $ 1,625 million with Vedanta. The final repayment date is November 28, 2018 or on demand from the lender with 30 days notice. The loan is unsecured. The interest rate on this loan is 8.15% per annum. During fiscal year 2015, TMHL repaid $ 281 million to Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited and the outstanding balance under this facility at March 31, 2016 was $ 425 million. During fiscal year 2017, the entire loan amount under this agreement has been repaid.

(iv)

During fiscal year 2014, TMHL entered into a loan agreement with Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited for $ 1,200 million and $ 300 million at an interest rate of 7.25% and 8.375% per annum respectively. The final repayment dates are January 31, 2019 and May 31, 2023 or on demand from the lender with 30 days notice. The loans are unsecured. During fiscal year 2015, TMHL repaid the outstanding balance of $ 285 million under the $ 300 million loan agreement to Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited and the outstanding balances of these loans as of March 31, 2016 was $ 1,200 million. During fiscal year 2017, the entire loan amount under this agreement has been repaid.

(v)

During fiscal year 2015, TMHL entered into a loan agreement with Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited for $ 100 million at an interest rate of 3 months LIBOR plus 301 basis points per annum. The final repayment date is August 11, 2016 or on demand from the lender with 5 days notice. The loan is unsecured. During fiscal year 2016, the repayment date of this agreement was extended to August 11, 2018 and the outstanding balance under this facility as of March 31, 2016 was $ 71 million. During fiscal year 2017, the entire loan amount under this agreement has been repaid.

Vedanta Resources Jersey Limited and TMHL

(i)

During fiscal year 2017, TMHL entered into a loan agreement with Vedanta Resources Jersey Limited for $ 200 million at an interest rate of 6.76% per annum. The final repayment date is August 16, 2019 or on demand from the lender with 5 days notice. The loan is unsecured. During fiscal year 2017, the amount advanced under this facility was $ 28 million and the entire loan amount has been repaid.

For a further discussion of related party transactions, see “Note 31. Related Party Transactions of Notes to the consolidated financial statements.”

Twin Star Holding Limited and Lisheen Milling Limited

During fiscal year 2016, Lisheen Milling Limited entered into a loan agreement with Twin Star Holding Limited for $ 10 million at an interest rate of 2.1% per annum. The agreement was valid until March 2018. During the current year, the agreement was renewed and is now valid until March 2019. The loan is unsecured.

Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s production sharing contract guarantee to Government

Vedanta has provided parent company financial and performance guarantees to the GoI for Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s obligation under the production sharing contracts. The guarantee provides for making available financial resources equivalent to Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business’s share for its obligation under production sharing contracts, personnel and technical services in accordance with industry practices and any other resources in case Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business is unable to fulfill its obligations under production sharing contracts. Following the merger of Cairn with the Company, Vedanta has also provided parent company financial and performance guarantee to GoI for the Company’s obligations under the production sharing contracts.

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Conflicts of Interest and Allocations of Business Opportunities

From time to time, conflicts of interest have in the past and will in the future arise between us and our affiliates, including our controlling shareholder, Vedanta, and other companies controlled by Vedanta, our directors and our executive officers. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Relationship with Vedanta.” With respect to transactions between us and our affiliates, directors and executive officers that involve conflicts of interests, we have in the past undertaken and will continue in the future to undertake such transactions in compliance with the rules for interested or related party transactions of the London Stock Exchange on which Vedanta is listed, the NYSE on which our ADSs are listed and the NSE and BSE.

The rules applicable to London Stock Exchange companies, which would apply to transactions between us and the controlling shareholders of Vedanta, namely Volcan and the Agarwal family, require that the details of a related party transaction be notified to a regulatory information service and disclosed to the Financial Conduct Authority as soon as possible after the terms of the transaction are agreed upon. There is also a requirement that a circular containing information about the related party transaction must be sent to all shareholders and that their approval of the related party transaction must be obtained either before the transaction is entered into or, if the transaction is conditional on shareholder approval, before the transaction is completed. The related party and its associates must be excluded from voting on the related party transactions. The requirement of shareholder approval does not apply to transactions where the gross assets of the transaction as a percentage of the gross assets of the listed company, the profits attributable to the assets of the transaction as a percentage of the profits of the listed company, the consideration for the transaction as a percentage of the aggregate market value of all the ordinary shares (excluding treasury shares) of the listed company and the gross capital of the company or business being acquired as a percentage of the gross capital of the listed company, does not exceed 5%. However, the listed company must, before entering into the related party transaction, inform the Financial Conduct Authority of the details of the proposed related party transaction, provide the Financial Conduct Authority with a written confirmation from a sponsor that the terms of the proposed related party transaction with the related party are fair and reasonable as far as the shareholders of the listed company are concerned and undertake in writing to the Financial Conduct Authority to include details of the related party transaction in the listed company’s next published annual accounts, including, if relevant, the identity of the related party, the value of the consideration for the transaction or arrangement and all other relevant circumstances. Related party transactions where all the above percentage ratios are 0.25% or less have no requirements under the rules applicable to London Stock Exchange companies. Where several separate transactions occur between a company and the same related party during a 12-month period, the transactions must be aggregated for the purpose of applying the percentage ratio tests.

As part of our listing with the NYSE, we were required to confirm to the NYSE that we will appropriately review and oversee related party transactions on an ongoing basis. These related party transactions include transactions between us and our controlling shareholder, Vedanta, and its affiliates. The NYSE reviews the public filings of its listed companies as to related party transactions. Under the rules of the NYSE, we are required to have an independent audit committee comprised entirely of independent directors. We have had an independent audit committee comprised entirely of independent directors since our ADS offering in June 2007. One of the functions of the independent audit committee is to review any related party transactions by us or any of our subsidiaries or affiliates. In addition, under the rules of the NYSE, we are required to obtain shareholder approval for any issuance of our equity shares, or securities convertible into or exercisable for our equity shares, to any related party, except that such approval would not be required for sales of our equity shares to our controlling shareholder or its affiliates in an amount not to exceed 5% of the number of our equity shares outstanding prior to such issuance and at a price equal to or greater than the higher of the book or market value of our equity shares.

Under the listing regulations we have entered into with the NSE and BSE, we are required to ensure that our disclosures in relation to material and significant related party transactions in our Annual Reports are in compliance with applicable accounting standards in India. Specifically, we are required to place before the audit committee and publish in our Annual Reports a statement in summary form of the related party transactions entered into by us during the previous fiscal year, providing details of whether such transactions were undertaken in the ordinary course of business and details of material individual transactions with related parties or others which were not on an arm’s length basis, together with our management’s justification for such transactions. Under the listing regulations, 2015, our audit committee is required to review and discuss with the management the disclosures of any related party transactions, as provided in our annual financial statements.

Under the Companies Act, 2013, a company needs approval of the Audit Committee on all related party transactions and including any modifications or amendment on previous transactions. This is irrespective of whether they are in the ordinary course of business and consummated at arm’s length or they do not breach the share capital or transaction value thresholds prescribed in the board rules.

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If the transaction is entered into the ordinary course of business, and is also at arm’s length, neither a board approval nor a shareholders’ resolution of a disinterested shareholder is required. For transactions which are neither in the ordinary course of business nor at arm’s length, the company will need an approval of the board, irrespective of the share capital or transaction value.

The company needs to pass a shareholders’ resolution at a general meeting, if the criteria below mentioned are satisfied. Members of the company, who are related parties, are not permitted to vote on the resolution.

(i)

Related party transactions are neither in the ordinary course of business nor at arm’s length, and

(ii)

The Company’s paid-up share capital is not less than the prescribed limit, or transaction(s) amount exceed a specified threshold.

We also have used and will continue to use independent appraisers in appropriate circumstances to help determine the terms of related party transactions. We have had and will continue to have an audit committee comprised entirely of independent directors which is responsible for reviewing any related-party transaction by us or any of our subsidiaries or affiliates.

We are continually seeking to identify and pursue business opportunities. However, Vedanta, as our controlling shareholder, has the power to determine in its sole discretion what corporate opportunities we may pursue and whether to pursue a corporate opportunity itself or through one of its other subsidiaries, which may benefit such companies instead of us and which could be detrimental to our interests. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Relationship with Vedanta—Vedanta may decide to allocate business opportunities to other members of the Vedanta group instead of to us, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.” Vedanta has in the past allocated and expects in the future to allocate corporate opportunities among itself and its various subsidiaries based on a number of factors, including the nature of the opportunity, the availability of funds at the relevant subsidiary to pursue the opportunity and which subsidiary it believes can most successfully take advantage of the opportunity.

C. Interest of Experts and Counsel

Not applicable

ITEM 8.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

Please see Item 18 for a list of the financial statements filed as part of this Annual Report.

Legal Proceedings

Except as described below, there are no governmental, legal or arbitration proceedings (including any such proceedings, which are pending, or to our knowledge, threatened) which proceedings we believe could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position. See Note 29 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report for more information.

Proceedings against the GoI which has disputed our exercise of the call option to purchase its remaining ownership interest in BALCO

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Proceedings against the GoI which has disputed our exercise of the call option to purchase its remaining ownership interest in HZL

We commenced arbitration proceedings against the GoI with respect to exercise of our call option to acquire the remaining shares of HZL held by the GoI, in accordance with the terms of the shareholders’ agreement between the GoI and us. The GoI denied our right to exercise the option on the basis that the shareholders’ agreement contravenes the provisions of Section 111A of the Companies Act, 1956 and is therefore void. The next date of hearing by the arbitral tribunal is on November 24, 2018. In a related proceeding, the Supreme Court on January 19, 2016 ordered the status quo be maintained with respect to the proposed disinvestment of government interest in HZL until further orders are passed by the Supreme Court. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Business—Options to Increase Interests in HZL and BALCO.”

Legal proceedings related to mining operations in the State of Goa

Pursuant to findings in the Justice M.B. Shah Commission Report dated March 15, 2012 on the allegations of illegal mining in the State of Goa, the state government banned iron ore mining operations in Goa on September 10, 2012 and the Ministry of Environment and Forest (“MoEF”) suspended environmental clearances of all mining leases within the State of Goa. A writ petition was filed before the Supreme Court of India to initiate action based on the Justice M.B. Shah Commission Report and an interim order was passed by the Supreme Court of India on October 5, 2012 suspending mining operations within Goa.

The Supreme Court of India passed an interim order on November 11, 2013 directing that the Directorate of Mines and Geology verify the inventory of the excavated mineral ores and the Monitoring Committee be constituted to sell the materials through an e-auction and proceeds from the auction to be deposited with the state government. The auction of inventorized ore is yet to be completed.

On April 21, 2014, the Supreme Court passed judgment in the matter lifting the ban with certain stipulations, including directions on mining by the lessees after November 22, 2007 as being illegal, and dumping outside the leased area as being impermissible. The Supreme Court also ordered that an interim buffer zone be fixed at one kilometer from the boundaries of National Parks and Sanctuaries, set an ad-hoc cap on annual excavation at 20 million tons other than from dumps until such time as the final report of Expert Committee is submitted, and also ordered the appropriation of the sale value of e-auctioned inventorized ores by the state government as per stipulated conditions, and the payment of 10% of the sale proceeds to the Goan Iron Ore Permanent Fund. The Supreme Court has held that all mining leases in the State of Goa, including those of the Company, had expired in 2007 and consequently, no mining operations can be carried out until renewal/execution of mining lease deeds by the state government. The petition filed by us in May 2014 for the review of the aforesaid judgment in the Supreme Court of India on certain limited issues was subsequently withdrawn by us in September 2014.

On August 13, 2014, the High Court of Bombay, Goa Bench passed a common order directing the State of Goa to renew the mining leases for which stamp duty was collected in accordance with the Goa Mineral Policy (2013) and to decide the other applications for which no stamp duty was collected within three months thereof.

In January 2015, the government of Goa revoked the order suspending mining operations in the State of Goa and MOEF has revoked suspension of environmental clearances in March 2015. Subsequently, the lease deeds for all working leases were executed and registered as of August 2015. We obtained the consent to operate under the Air (Prevention of Pollution) Act and Water (Prevention of Pollution) Act from the Goa State Pollution Control Board and mining plan approval from the Indian Bureau of Mines for these leases, and the Company resumed operations of its mines on August 10, 2015.

On September 10, 2014, the Goa Foundation challenged the High Court order directing the renewal of mining by way of a Special Leave Petition (SLP) before the Supreme Court of India, challenging the judgment of the High Court dated August 13, 2014 directing renewal of mining leases. No stay has yet been granted by the Supreme Court. Another set of SLPs on an identical issue were filed by a local activist. Two writ petitions have also been filed before Supreme Court by Goa Foundation and Sudip Tamankar in September 2015 for setting aside the second renewal of iron ore mining leases in Goa made under section 8 (3) of MMDR Act and challenging the revocation of suspension on mining in State of Goa. The Supreme Court passed its final order in the matter on February 7, 2018 wherein it set aside the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the State of Goa. The Supreme Court directed all lease holders operating under a second renewal to stop all mining operations with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act.

Separately, the Expert Committee has filed their reports on dump handling and ceiling on annual extractions before the Supreme Court recommending the immediate enhancement of the annual extraction ceiling to 30 million MT, and subsequently to 37 million MT after the development of infrastructure. We have filed an application before the Supreme Court of India, requesting clarification on whether any contributions to the Goa Permanent Iron Ore Fund should be made as per the Supreme Court’s orders, as the central government has introduced a provision to set up social fund known as District Mineral Foundation in states for similar objectives. This application has been withdrawn in view of Judgement dated February 7, 2018.The Expert Committee Report is yet to be accepted and the matter is pending before the Supreme Court.

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Certain prosecution proceedings brought by SEBI against us, Mr. Anil Agarwal and Mr. Tarun Jain

In April 2001, SEBI ordered that prosecution proceedings be brought against us, alleging that we have violated the regulations prohibiting fraudulent and unfair trading practices and it also passed an order prohibiting us from accessing the capital markets for a period of two years. This SEBI order was overruled by the SEBI Appellate tribunal on October 22, 2001 on the basis of lack of sufficient material evidence to establish that we had, directly or indirectly, engaged in market manipulation and that SEBI had exercised its jurisdiction incorrectly in prohibiting us from accessing the capital markets. On November 9, 2001, SEBI appealed to the High Court of Bombay. The next date of hearing has not yet been fixed. In addition to the prosecution proceedings, SEBI also initiated criminal proceedings in 2001 before the Court of the Metropolitan Magistrate, Mumbai, against us, Mr. Anil Agarwal and Mr. Tarun Jain (who was the chief financial officer of MALCO at the time of the alleged price manipulation). When SEBI’s order was overruled on October 22, 2001, we filed a petition before the High Court of Bombay to stay those criminal proceedings on the grounds that the SEBI Appellate tribunal had overruled SEBI’s order on price manipulation. An order was passed by the High Court of Bombay in our favor on December 2, 2005, granting an interim stay of the criminal proceedings.

Criminal proceedings against certain directors and employees of BALCO

Criminal proceedings were initiated by Mr. Ajay Padia before the Court of the Judicial Magistrate First Class, Pune against Mr. Anil Agarwal, Mr. Navin Agarwal, Mr. Tarun Jain and certain of our other former directors and employees in 2002 alleging that an assurance that was given by the above mentioned directors regarding payment of all amounts owed to him for the damaged material supplied by BALCO was not honored. An application under Section 482 of the Indian Criminal Procedure Code was filed in the High Court of Bombay for quashing the proceedings in the Judicial Magistrate First Class and to dispose the matter directing that alternative remedies were available before the Sessions Court, Pune, which was the appropriate Court. The High Court of Bombay stayed the criminal proceedings and the application was listed for disposal. The next date of hearing has not been fixed.

Penalties levied by the Enforcement Directorate on certain of our directors and us

On August 3, 2004, the Enforcement Directorate levied penalties on certain of our directors and us aggregating to ₹ 347 million ($ 5 million). It was alleged that we transferred an amount equivalent to $ 49 million to Twinstar Holdings Limited and invested in Sterlite and MALCO through Twinstar Holdings Limited without the permission of the RBI. We have submitted that Twinstar Holdings Limited obtained the required approvals from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (“FIPB”) for the investment. We appealed to the appellate tribunal against the Enforcement Directorate’s order for foreign exchange seeking a waiver of the pre-deposit amount, which was equal to 100% of the penalty levied, which appeal was allowed by the tribunal. The Enforcement Directorate appealed against this decision of the tribunal to the High Court of Delhi, which referred the matter back to the tribunal to consider the issue afresh. The next date of hearing is August 29, 2018.

Criminal proceedings against former directors of Sesa Industries Limited

Ms. Krishna Bajaj filed a complaint against the former directors of Sesa Industries Limited (which has since been amalgamated with Sesa Goa) before the Magistrate at Mumbai in 2000, in relation to shares issued on a preferential basis by Sesa Industries Limited in 1993 to Sesa Goa’s shareholders, alleging that the shares of Sesa Industries Limited were not listed within 12 to 18 months of the offer as stated in the offering document. The four directors appeared before the court on June 16, 2009 and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The four directors filed a criminal application in the High Court of Bombay challenging the Magistrate’s order of framing charges before the High Court of Bombay. The High Court of Bombay admitted the criminal application and stayed the proceedings pending before Magistrate at Mumbai.

Writ petitions filed against us alleging violation of certain air, water and hazardous waste management regulations at our Tuticorin plant

Various writ petitions were filed before the High Court of Madras alleging that sulphur dioxide emissions from our copper smelting operations at Tuticorin were causing air and water pollution and hazardous waste and sought a cancellation of our permits and environmental approval to operate our smelter.

A writ petition was filed in December 2009 before the High Court of Madras challenging the grant of environmental clearance for the expansion of our copper smelter at Tuticorin, however no order or direction for injunction was granted. By way of its order dated April 28, 2016, the High Court of Madras dismissed the petition and rejected the claims of the petitioner.

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Separately, in March 2013, the TNPCB ordered the closure of the copper smelter at Tuticorin due to complaints regarding a noxious gas leak by local residents. On April 1, 2013, we filed a petition with the National Green Tribunal challenging the order of the TNPCB on the basis that the plant’s emissions were within permissible limits. The National Green Tribunal passed an interim order in May 31, 2013 allowing the smelter to recommence operations subject to certain conditions, and consequently we recommenced operations on June 16, 2013. The expert committee constituted by the National Green Tribunal submitted a report on the operation of the plant on July 10, 2013 stating that the plant’s emissions were within the prescribed standards. Based on this report, the National Green Tribunal ordered on July 15, 2013 that the smelter could recommence its operations. On August 8, 2013, the National Green Tribunal confirmed its May 31, 2013 order and held that there was no health impact owing to the operations with directions to comply with the recommendations made by the committee to further improve the working of the plant within a time bound schedule. We implemented all the recommendations during fiscal year 2013. However, the TNPCB filed a civil appeals in 2013 against the National Green Tribunal’s interim order dated May 31, 2013 and the final order dated August 8, 2013. V Gopalaswamy, the General Secretary of a political party, MDMK, also filed civil appeals in 2013, which are pending before the Supreme Court of India.

Proceedings related to the existing copper smelting operations and the proposed expansion project at the Tuticorin plant

The consent to operate for our existing 400,000 TPA copper smelter plant at Tuticorin was due to expire on March 31, 2018. We filed an application dated January 31, 2018, before the TNPCB for renewal of consent to operate, as per procedure established by law. The TNPCB rejected the said renewal application by its order dated April 9, 2018 (Rejection Order). The Company has filed an appeal before the TNPCB Appellate Authority challenging the Rejection Order and the appeal is next listed for hearing on August 21, 2018.

During the pendency of the appeal, TNPCB through its order dated May 23, 2018, ordered the disconnection of electricity supply and closure of the existing copper smelter plant with immediate effect. TNPCB passed the said closure order without any prior notice to us, which was due to be served as per the requirements under Section 21(4) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Rule 34 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Rules 1975. Thereafter, the Government of Tamil Nadu, proclaiming and endorsing TNPCB’s Rejection Order, issued orders dated May 28, 2018, with a direction to seal the existing copper smelter plant unit permanently (‘TN Government Order’), without providing any prior notice to us. The Company has filed an appeal before National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench at New Delhi challenging the closure order passed by TNPCB as well as the TN Government Order for sealing of the existing plant and the matter is listed on August 9, 2018.

Subsequently, the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health issued orders dated May 30, 2018, directing the immediate suspension and revocation of the factory license and the registration certificate for the existing smelter plant.

Separately, our environmental clearance for the proposed copper smelter plant 2 (expansion project) is due to expire on December 31, 2018. Our application for renewal of such environmental clearance was rejected by the MoEF. Thereafter, we made a fresh application dated March 12, 2018, before the Expert Appraisal Committee of the MoEF wherein a sub- committee was directed to visit the expansion project site prior to prescribing the terms of reference.

In the meantime, the Madurai Bench of the High Court of Madras in a public interest litigation filed against us by the MoEF and State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) held through its order dated May 23, 2018, that the application for renewal of the environmental clearance for the expansion project shall be processed after a mandatory public hearing and the said application shall be decided by the competent authority on or before September 23, 2018. In the interim, the High Court ordered us to cease construction and all other activities on site for the proposed expansion project with immediate effect. Separately, SIPCOT through its letter dated May 29, 2018, cancelled 342.22 acres of the land allotted to us for the proposed expansion project. Further, the TNPCB issued orders on June 7, 2018, directing the withdrawal of the consent to establish for the expansion project, which is valid until December 31, 2022.

We will take appropriate legal measures to address the above matters.

The MoEF has rejected the forest clearance granted to the Niyamgiri mining project and our expansion plans of refinery in Lanjigarh are on hold

In 2004, a writ petition was filed by a private individual against us, the Government of Odisha, the Republic of India, the Odisha Mining Corporation (“OMC”), and others before the High Court of Odisha, alleging that the grant of a mining lease by the OMC to us to mine bauxite in the Niyamgiri Hills at Lanjigarh, in the State of Odisha, would violate the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 of India. The petition alleged that the felling of trees, construction of the alumina refinery by us and the development of the mine was in violation of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and would have an adverse impact on the environment. The petition sought, among other things, to restrain the grant of the mining lease to mine bauxite, to declare the joint venture agreement entered into between us and the OMC void, a court direction for the immediate cessation of construction of the Lanjigarh alumina refinery and an unspecified amount of compensation from us for damage caused to the environment. This petition was also filed before the Supreme Court of India by certain non-governmental organizations and individuals. The Supreme Court granted us the clearance to mine in and around the Niyamgiri Mines on terms and conditions as specified in the Court order. Consequent to the order of the Supreme Court, the proceedings before the High Court of Odisha became redundant as the issues were already determined.

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Thereafter, the MoEF on August 24, 2010 declined to grant the forest clearance for the Niyamgiri Mines to the OMC, and rendered the environmental clearance non-operational. On March 8, 2011, the OMC challenged the order of the MoEF by a special leave petition in the Supreme Court of India. The Supreme Court in its order dated April 18, 2013 ordered the Government of Odisha to place any unresolved issues and claims of the local communities under the Forest Rights Act and applicable rules before the Gram Sabha, the council representing the local community. The Gram Sabha was ordered to consider these claims and communicate its decision to the MoEF through the Government of Odisha within three months of the order. The Government of Odisha completed the process of conducting Gram Sabha meetings and submitted its report on the proceedings to the MoEF.

Further the MoEF, based on the report submitted by the Government of Odisha rejected the grant of stage II forest clearance for the Niyamgiri project of OMC on January 8, 2014, which is one of the sources of supply of bauxite to the alumina refinery at Lanjigarh in terms of the joint venture agreement with the government of Odisha (through the OMC). Under the terms of the joint venture agreement, 150 million tons of bauxite was required to be made available to us. We are considering to source bauxite from alternate sources to support the existing and the expanded refinery operations. The OMC issued a show cause notice dated February 20, 2015 on the Company to show reason for why the joint venture agreement for the supply of 150 million tons of bauxite will not be cancelled in view of the failure to achieve certain milestones set out in the joint venture agreement. We replied to the notice substantiating all facts on the project followed by an in-person meeting. We stated that the Company has achieved all its milestones and that the joint venture agreement should not be terminated. During fiscal year 2016, OMC terminated the joint venture agreement for which the Company is pursuing the appropriate course of action.

On October 20, 2010, the MoEF ordered us to maintain the status quo on the expansion of our refinery at Lanjigarh. Against this order, we filed a writ petition in the High Court of Odisha and the High Court dismissed our petition. We made an application to the MoEF to reconsider the grant of the environmental clearance for our alumina refinery. By its letter dated February 2, 2012, the MoEF issued fresh terms of reference to us for preparation of the environment impact assessment report. We submitted this report to the Odisha Pollution Control Board and simultaneously submitted various representations to the MoEF as well as the Project Monitoring Group established under the Cabinet Committee on Investments. The Expert Appraisal Committee of the MoEF reconsidered the project and revalidated the terms of reference for 22 months effective January 2014. Thereafter the suspension imposed on the expansion of our alumina refinery was lifted. The public hearing was held on July 30, 2014 and the expansion of our Lanjigarh refinery was considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee in its meeting dated January 9, 2015 for the grant of environmental clearance. On November 20, 2015, the MoEF granted an environmental clearance in line with the Expert Appraisal Committee’s recommendation for the alumina refinery expansion up to 4 mtpa and environmental clearance of up to 6 mtpa, which will be received as an amendment to the existing environmental clearance after the completion of land acquisition of the balance area of 666.03 HA. Further, a Consent to establish for 6 mtpa and Consent to Operate for 2 mtpa has also been granted.

On February 18, 2016, an individual challenged the environmental clearance granted for the alumina refinery expansion at Lanjigarh before the National Green Tribunal, Kolkata, wherein MoEF, Odisha State Pollution Control Board and we have been made parties. The matter is pending before the National Green Tribunal. In the meantime, another individual has filed an interlocutory application to be impleaded in the matter before the National Green Tribunal, Kolkata.

Proceedings against us challenging environmental consents received for our expansion project of pig iron, metallurgical coke, sinter plants and power plant in Goa

On March 6, 2012, the High Court of Bombay dismissed a public interest litigation filed by Mr. Ramachandra Vaman Naik and others for quashing an approval issued by the MoEF and the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) for the expansion project of a pig iron plant, sinter plant, metallurgical coke plant and power plant in Goa. On July 26, 2012, Mr. Naik challenged this order by filing a special leave petition before the Supreme Court for an interim stay of the order and for a stay on the construction and operation of the plants in Goa. No stay has been granted in these matters and all respondents have filed their counter–affidavits. The Supreme Court, on November 7, 2016, transferred the matter to the National Green Tribunal, New Delhi for a de novo hearing and disposal. The Supreme Court also set aside the order passed by the High Court without expressing any opinion on the merits of the case. On December 4, 2017, National Green Tribunal heard the matter and disposed with directions to the MoEF to examine if any additional conditions are to be added to the environmental clearances and pass orders expeditiously.

Separately, an application was filed by the village panchayat head of Navelim, Goa before the National Green Tribunal against the GSPCB, MoEF, State of Goa, others and us alleging that (i) GSPCB had issued its approval in a piecemeal manner to us, even though the environmental clearance order issued by the MoEF and the approval are for all four plants thereby violating the MoEF order, (ii) the no-objection certificate issued in relation to this project in 2007 was forged and fabricated, and (iii) the CN5 bridge at Maina-Navelim junction falls outside the notified industrial area, and crosses a public road belonging to the village panchayat. The application sought cancellation of the approval and the order of the MoEF. On March 1, 2013, the National Green Tribunal gave directions to issue notices to all the parties. We responded on April 11, 2013, denying all contentions and submissions made by the village head and requested that the application be dismissed. Pleadings in the matter have been completed. Subsequently on February 10, 2014, the matter was transferred from the Principal Bench of the National Green Tribunal at New Delhi to the Western Bench of the National Green Tribunal at Pune, where the matter is yet to be listed.

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Shenzhen Shandong Nuclear Power Construction Co. Limited has commenced arbitration proceedings against us

On February 19, 2012, Shenzhen Shandong Nuclear Power Construction Co. Limited (“SSNP”) filed a petition before the Bombay High Court under section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, alleging non-payment of their dues towards construction of a 210 MW co-generation power plant for a refinery expansion project at Lanjigarh, and filed a claim of ₹ 16,420 million ($ 252 million). This was subsequent to SSNP’s notice for termination of the contract dated February 25, 2011 and legal notice dated February 23, 2012 for recovery of its alleged dues. SSNP also made a request for interim relief. Under the petition, SSNP sought for a restraining order on encashment of the advance bank guarantee, injunction from disposing or creating third party right over plant and machinery at the project site and security for the amount due under the contract. On April 25, 2012, the High Court of Bombay dismissed SSNP’s petition. SSNP appealed against this order and the High Court of Bombay by its order of December 12, 2012 ordered us to deposit a bank guarantee for an amount of ₹ 1,870 million ($ 29 million) until completion of the arbitration proceedings.

On April 9, 2013, we filed a counterclaim for delays in operations caused for which we argued that SSNP was responsible. Subsequently, SSNP filed an application for an interim award of ₹ 2,020 million ($ 31 million) before the arbitral tribunal, which was not granted. The arbitration award has been pronounced, wherein the Tribunal has awarded an aggregate amount of ₹ 2,210 million ($ 34 million) to SSNP along with interest and cost of ₹ 1,180 million ($ 18 million) at the rate of 9% from the date of filing of claim before Arbitral Tribunal. Our challenge to the award under section 34 of Arbitration Act was dismissed by the court, post which the Company filed an appeal before the High Court of Delhi and the order in the appeal is now reserved.

Proceedings against TSPL relating to its delay in commissioning various units of the power plant

TSPL entered into a long term power purchase agreement with the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (“PSPCL”) for supply of power. TSPL has a contractual obligation to complete the commissioning of various units of the power plant according to the scheduled timelines agreed in terms of the agreement. According to the terms of the agreement, there are obligations and performances to be met by both PSPCL and TSPL. PSPCL was obligated to fulfill certain conditions including procuring interconnection and transmission facilities, arranging supply of adequate quantity of fuel for the project etc. However, due to the delay in fulfilment of certain obligations and other force majeure reasons, there were delays in implementing the project as compared to the scheduled timelines under the agreement. TSPL received letter from PSPCL, seeking payment of liquidated damages of ₹ 3,176 million ($ 49 million) for each delay in commissioning of Units I, II and III totaling ₹ 9,529 million ($ 146 million).

Subsequently, PSPCL invoked the bank guarantee of ₹ 1,500 million ($ 23 million) towards payment of the liquidated damages on account of delay in completion of the commissioning of Unit I. TSPL filed a petition with the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (“PSERC”) for quashing of the wrongful claim of liquidated damages and grant of extension of time to complete the commissioning of various units of the power plant. On October 22, 2014, PSERC ordered the matter to be settled through arbitration and allowed the stay on encashment of the bank guarantee until the matter is finally adjudged by the arbitrator. PSPCL submitted an appeal in Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL) against the PSERC order and on May 12, 2015, APTEL disposed the appeal by directing that the matter will be adjudicated by an arbitral tribunal. The arbitral proceedings have concluded on February 15, 2017 and the award was made in TSPL’s favor. Meanwhile, PSPCL has filed an application challenging the award under section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, which is scheduled for hearing on August 23, 2018.

Proceedings against TSPL relating to mega power project benefits

TSPL submitted its bid for setting up a 1980 MW thermal power plant in the state of Punjab under a tariff based international competitive bidding process under a Case-2 Model bidding mechanism in June 2008, which was ultimately awarded to Sterlite Energy Limited (now Vedanta Limited). A PPA was entered between TSPL and PSEB on September 2008, which is now known as PSPCL. According to the PPA, any increase or decrease in the capital cost of the project on the occurrence of any “Change in Law” (as defined therein) after the cut-off date of June 16, 2008, had to be passed on to PSPCL, if it resulted in change in economic position of TSPL.

At the time of bidding, TSPL was not eligible for the ‘mega power project’ status, however towards the end of 2009, the government policy on mega power projects was amended and various conditions were relaxed making TSPL eligible for the grant of mega power project benefits. TSPL was then granted the mega power project status in 2010 in terms of which TSPL has availed customs and excise duty exemption for import of capital goods during construction of the power plant. As TSPL had become entitled to the mega power project status after the cut-off date, according to PSPCL, the mega power project benefits received by TSPL had to be passed on to PSPCL pursuant to the PPA’s “Change in Law” clause. TSPL’s position was that as of the cut-off date, similar benefits were available to it under India’s foreign trade policy as a non-mega power project and accordingly, that its economic position had not altered pursuant to the grant of mega power project status to warrant the passing on of such benefits to PSPCL. TSPL has also produced a number of approval letters issued by various Director General of Foreign Trade offices across India, which extended such benefits to non-mega power projects including government power projects or other public sector undertakings.

PSERC passed a 2:1 majority judgement dated December 2, 2014, holding against TSPL. TSPL thereafter filed an appeal in January 2015 along with a stay application before the APTEL. The appeal was admitted, however, the stay application was rejected by APTEL. Against this rejection of stay application, TSPL filed an appeal in Supreme Court on July 28, 2015. The Supreme Court granted stay order against any recovery of mega power project benefits by PSPCL. The stay granted by the Supreme Court was vacated on February 6, 2017, which led to a deduction of ₹ 2,140 million ($ 33 million) from TSPL’s monthly billing by PSPCL. Upon appeal, Supreme Court directed PSPCL to refund ₹ 500 million ($ 8 million) from the amount deducted from TSPL’s bill subject to final outcome of appeal before APTEL. Following this order, APTEL also granted a stay against further deductions from the monthly billing against a bank guarantee furnished by TSPL.

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APTEL dismissed the appeal filed by TSPL and disallowed TSPL’s contentions in its final judgement order dated July 4, 2017. TSPL filed an appeal before the Supreme Court against the adverse final judgement of APTEL. This appeal was admitted by Supreme Court on July 10, 2017 and a stay order was granted against PSPCL’s proposed deduction of ₹ 900 million ($ 14 million) from TSPL’s bills and against the encashment of bank guarantee amounting to ₹ 380 million ($ 6 million) which was furnished by TSPL to PSPCL under APTEL’s order. TSPL filed a clarification application before the Supreme Court of India, which was allowed and PSPCL was directed to refund INR ₹ 500 million ($ 8 million). The appeal is pending for further hearing and next date is yet to be notified.

TSPL dispute related to Coal GCV measurement and coal washing

Upon PSPCL’s refusal to pay energy charges to TSPL as per the provisions of a PPA between PSPCL and TSPL dated September 1, 2008, TSPL filed a petition on May 22, 2014, in PSERC against PSPCL claiming charges for washing, unloading, surface transportation, transit loss, finance charges, gross calorific value (GCV) loss related to the procurement of coal. PSPCL’s contention was that fuel charges should only include charges billed by the fuel supply company namely Mahanadi Coalfields Limited, whereas TSPL contended that all costs of fuel procurement are to be considered by PSPCL under the PPA, since the obligation to supply fuel for the project is that of PSPCL under Case II Scenario IV bidding procedure of Ministry of Power. PSPCL’s obligation of signing fuel supply agreement with Mahanadi Coalfields Limited and to supply fuel for project was later upheld by APTEL in another case between TSPL and PSPCL and that judgement is subsisting since its operation has not been disturbed in PSPCL’s appeal to Supreme Court of India.

PSERC issued the final order on November 23, 2015 denying all the claims made by TSPL. TSPL filed an appeal before APTEL challenging the order of PSERC. On July 3, 2017, APTEL partially allowed the appeal awarding unloading and shunting charges to TSPL although it ruled against TSPL on other claims. TSPL filed an appeal against the APTEL order before the Supreme Court. On March 7, 2018, the Supreme Court allowed TSPL’s appeal and directed PSPCL to pay charges for washing, surface transportation and to measure GCV of coal at TSPL site. The Supreme Court also dismissed the cross appeal filed by PSPCL, thereby affirming APTEL’s order allowing unloading and shunting charges to be paid by PSPCL. PSERC remand proceedings have commenced pursuant to APTEL’s order dated July 3, 2017, for computation of unloading and shunting charges allowed to TSPL. The matter is listed for hearing on August 8, 2018. The claim amount involved is ₹ 8,020 million ($ 123 million).

Petitions filed against BALCO in relation to the alleged encroachment of land on which our Korba smelter is located

BALCO has 1,804.67 acres of government land out of which 1,751 acres is forest land which were given on lease by the state government. The lease deed has not been executed till date. The High Court of Chhattisgarh on February 2010 held that BALCO is in legal possession of 1,804.67 acres of government land based on which the cabinet of Chhattisgarh recommended the execution of lease deed in favor of BALCO but after approvals for forest land were sought.

With respect to the approvals for forest land, petitions have been filed in public interest before the Supreme Court of India by various individuals and Sarthak, a non-governmental organization alleging that BALCO is using forest land for non-forest activities. The Supreme Court of India referred the matter to the Central Empowered Committee, which recommended an ex post-facto diversion of forest land with payment of net present value of land for which forest compensation was not paid prior to the year 1980. Subsequently, it was alleged that BALCO had cut trees in violation of the Court order and the petitioner filed a contempt petition and the matter was again referred to the Central Empowered Committee. The Central Empowered Committee submitted its report on June 30, 2012 to the Court recommending that a detailed survey should be conducted through Forest Survey of India (MoEF) using high quality remote sensing technique to find out whether any tree felling and/or non-forest use has taken place after February 29, 2008 in the revenue forest land and/or deemed forest in possession of BALCO. In order to expedite the proceedings, BALCO filed an application in the Court seeking direction to pay the net present value of forest land as per the recommendation of the Central Empowered Committee providing an ex-post facto diversion of the 1,751 acres forest land held by BALCO. The matter is scheduled for hearing before the Supreme Court on August 6, 2018.

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Forest development tax levied by the Government of Karnataka

In October 2008, we filed a writ petition in the High Court of Karnataka against the Government of Karnataka and others, challenging the imposition of a forest development tax (“FDT”) at a rate of 8.0% (a subsequent demand was made for the payment of tax at the rate of 12.0%) on the value of iron ore sold by us from the mining leases in the forest area, pursuant to the notification by the Government of Karnataka and the memorandum/common order issued by the Deputy Conservator of Forests. In August 2009, the High Court of Karnataka permitted the Government of Karnataka to levy the forest development tax and ordered that the demand be restricted to 50.0% of the forest development tax as an interim arrangement pending disposal of the writ petition.

We filed an application before the High Court of Karnataka, seeking modification of the order in August 2009. However, the application was not taken up for hearing. Subsequently, we filed a special leave petition before the Supreme Court of India against the High Court’s order. In November 2009, the Supreme Court of India ordered the High Court of Karnataka to dispose the application for modification of the order given in August 2009 and ordered us to furnish a bank guarantee towards payment of the forest development tax. In April 2010, we were ordered by the High Court of Karnataka to pay 25.0% of the demand in cash and furnish a bank guarantee for the remaining 25.0%. On January 3, 2016, the High Court of Karnataka passed its final order quashing the forest development tax notification, holding that the rate of forest development tax levied to be 8% and directing a refund of the amounts collected from mining lessees other than state government owned companies. The state government of Karnataka appealed against the order before the Supreme Court of India, and another mining lessee also filed a counter appeal in the matter. The matter is pending before the Supreme Court and in the interim, the Supreme Court has stayed the refund of the forest development tax amount as ordered by the High Court.

Meanwhile, the Government of Karnataka legislated the Karnataka Forest Development (Amendment) Act, 2016 (the ‘Amendment Act’) to validate the earlier law making certain amendments with retroactive effect. The Amendment Act has also changed the nomenclature of “Forest Development Tax” (“FDT”) to “Forest Development fee (“FDF”)” with retroactive effect, since the court had previously declared that FDT was a tax and not a fee, as claimed by Government of Karnataka. We challenged the validity of the Amendment Act by way of a writ petition before the High Court of Karnataka. The High Court of Karnataka, on October 4, 2017, struck down the Amendment Act directing refund of the amounts collected. On March 13, 2017, the Supreme Court, in the appeal filed by state of Karnataka against the order of the High Court, has stayed the refund of the amount collected as FDF. On March 21, 2018, the Supreme Court directed that appeals against both the FDT and FDF matters will be heard together. The matter will be listed for hearing in due course.

Demands against HZL by Department of Mines and Geology

The Department of Mines and Geology of the State of Rajasthan issued several show cause notices in August, September and October 2006, aggregating ₹ 3,339 million ($ 51 million) to HZL, claiming unlawful occupation and unauthorized mining of associated minerals other than zinc and lead at HZL’s Rampura Agucha, Rajpura Dariba and Zawar mines in Rajasthan, during the period from July 1968 to March 2006. In response, HZL filed a writ petition against these show cause notices. In October 2006, the High Court issued an order granting a stay and restrained the Department of Mines and Geology from undertaking any coercive measures to recover the penalty. In January 2007, the High Court issued another order granting the Department of Mines and Geology additional time to file their reply and also ordered the Department of Mines and Geology not to issue any orders canceling the lease. The next date of hearing has not yet been fixed.

Demand against BALCO for electricity duty

In February 2010, BALCO received a notice from the Chief Electrical Inspector, Government of Chhattisgarh demanding BALCO to pay ₹ 2,404 million ($ 37 million) from June 2005 to March 2009, towards electricity duty for the generation of power by BALCO’s 540 MW power plant. The notice alleged that BALCO did not submit the eligibility certificate required for exemption from payment of electricity duty. The said exemption was claimed pursuant to a memorandum of understanding entered with the state government and according to the industrial policy 2001-2006. The state level committee recommended that an eligibility certificate be issued to us that will exempt us from paying duty on electricity. The application was filed before Directorate of Industries for granting us exemption from electricity duty and is currently under review. The amount of duty on electricity payable for the period subsequent to March 31, 2009 until March 31, 2018 is ₹ 6,951 million ($ 107 million).

Claim against HZL for environment and health cess by the State of Rajasthan

The state of Rajasthan issued a notification in June 2008 notifying the Rajasthan Environment and Cess Rules, 2008, imposing environment and health cess on major minerals including lead and zinc. HZL and other mine operators resisted this notification and the imposition thereunder before the High Court of Rajasthan on the ground that the imposition of such cess and all matters relating to the environment fall under the competence of the central government as opposed to the state government. In October 2011, the High Court of Rajasthan disposed the writ petitions and held the Rajasthan Environment and Cess Rules, 2008 that imposes a levy of cess on mineral as being constitutionally valid. An amount of ₹ 150 per metric ton of ore produced would be attracted under the statute if it is held to be valid. HZL challenged this order by a special leave petition in December 2011 before the Supreme Court of India. The Supreme Court of India issued a notice for stay. The Supreme Court issued further direction on March 23, 2012 not to take any coercive action against HZL for recovery of cess. The matter is still pending and not yet listed for hearing. The state government has rescinded the prospective liability towards environment and health cess by notification dated January 6, 2017.

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Claims for contributions towards the District Mineral Foundation

The District Mineral Foundation was introduced by the MMDRA Amendment Act, whereby all mining lease holders are required to pay contributions towards the District Mineral Foundation. The contribution amounts were to be percentage of royalties as prescribed by the central government and were effective from January 12, 2015. In September 2015, a notification was issued by the Ministry of Mines prescribing the rate for the District Mineral Foundation contribution.

Subsequently, state rules were formulated for Rajasthan with effect from May 2016 and HZL received demand notices for the deposit of contributions to the District Mineral Foundation from January 12, 2015. In its order dated August 8, 2016, the High Court of Rajasthan stayed the demand retroactively for the period under challenge.

On December 16, 2015, the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries also filed a writ petition before the High Court of Delhi, obtaining an order for no coercive action. The writ petition was subsequently transferred to the Supreme Court.

In October 2015, another notification was issued by the Ministry of Coal whereby rates were prescribed for certain minerals such as coal and lignite, although an additional provision also required for the application of such rates from the earlier date of the notification or the respective state rules. Vedanta Limited and Balco challenged the notifications for liability on account of fuel before the High Court of Delhi.

The Supreme Court through order dated October 13, 2017, held that contribution to DMF in case of minerals other than coal shall take effect from September 17, 2015 and in the case of coal from October 20, 2015 or from the date on which the DMF was established by the state, whichever is later. Pursuant to the Supreme Court order, HZL has challenged the demand for payment between the disputed period i.e. from the date when the State of Rajasthan established DMF until the date when the High Court of Rajasthan has granted a stay. In parallel, BALCO has filed a petition before the High Court of Delhi challenging the constitutionality of section 9B(5) and section 9B(6) of the MMDR Act. The matter is listed for hearing on September 7, 2018.

Claim against BALCO for energy development cess

In December 2006, the High Court of Chhattisgarh on a writ filed by BALCO quashed the provisions relating to imposition of energy development cess of ₹ 6,899 million ($ 106 million) on our captive power plants and ordered refund of the cess already collected by the state government. The State of Chhattisgarh filed a special leave petition in the Supreme Court against the order of the High Court. The Supreme Court has issued notice and stayed the refund of the cess already collected pending the disposal of the special leave petition. The matter is listed before the Supreme Court and next hearing date is to be notified.

We received a show cause notice from the Indian tax authorities for not withholding tax on payments made while acquiring a subsidiary

In March 2014, Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) received a show cause notice from the Indian Tax Authorities (“Tax Authorities”) for not deducting withholding tax on the payments made to Cairn UK Holdings Limited (“CUHL”), for acquiring shares of Cairn India Holdings Limited (“CIHL”), as part of their internal reorganization. Tax Authorities have stated in the notice that a short-term capital gain has accrued to CUHL on transfer of the shares of CIHL to Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business), in the financial year 2006-2007, on which tax should have been withheld by Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business). Pursuant to this, various replies were filed with the tax authorities.

Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) also filed a writ petition before the Delhi High Court wherein it has raised several points for assailing the aforementioned Income tax Authority’s order. The matter is next listed for hearing on September 6, 2018 before the High Court of Delhi.

After several hearings, the Income Tax Authority, in March 2015, issued an order holding Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) as ‘assessee in default’ and raised a demand of ₹ 204,947 million ($ 3,148 million) (including interest of ₹ 102,473 million ($ 1,574 million). Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) had filed an appeal before the First Appellate Authority, Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals) which through order dated July 3, 2017 confirmed the tax demand against Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business). Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) has challenged the Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals) order before Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT).

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Separately CUHL, on whom the primary liability of tax lies has received an Order from the ITAT holding that the transaction is taxable in view of the clarification made in the Act but also acknowledged that being a retrospective transaction, interest would not be levied. Hence affirming a demand of ₹ 102,474 million ($ 1,574 million) excluding the interest portion that had previously been claimed. The Department is appealing against this order.

As a result of the above order from ITAT, the Group now considers the risk in respect of the interest portion of claim to be remote. Further, as per the recent attachment notice received from the Tax Recovery Officer appointed for CUHL, the tax officer has adjusted the dividend of ₹ 6,666 million ($ 102 million) which was due to CUHL and was recovered by the Tax department. We have further remitted additional dividend of ₹ 4,415 million ($ 68 million) further reducing the principal liability to ₹ 91,393 million ($ 1,404 million). Accordingly, the Group has revised the contingent liability to ₹ 91,393 million ($ 1,404 million).

Additionally, the Tax department has initiated the process of selling the attached CUHL investment in equity and preference shares of Vedanta Limited valuing ₹ 58,607 million ($ 900 million) based on the quoted price as at March 31, 2018 out of which GoI has sold 6,44,67,715 equity shares of Vedanta Limited till July 13, 2018 for the recovery of tax amount.

In the event, the case is decided against Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business, the potential liability including interest would be ₹ 204,947 million ($ 3,148 million).

Separately but in connection with this litigation, Vedanta has filed a Notice of Claim against the GoI under the UK India Bilateral Investment Treaty (the “BIT”). The International arbitration Tribunal recently passed favorable order on jurisdiction and now the matter would be heard on merits. The hearings are scheduled in the month of April and May 2019. The Government of India has challenged jurisdiction order of Arbitration Tribunal before the High court of Singapore.

The Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme has been challenged by the Indian tax authorities and others

Subsequent to the effectiveness of the Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme, special leave petitions challenging the orders of the High Court of Bombay at Goa were filed before the Supreme Court of India by the Commissioner of Income Tax, Goa and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in July 2013 and in April 2014, respectively. Further, a creditor and a shareholder have challenged the Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme in the High Court of Madras in September 2013. Further, the Ministry of Mines, GoI have challenged the Amalgamation and Reorganisation Scheme before the High Court of Madras and the High Court of Bombay, Goa Bench, respectively. The Supreme Court of India has admitted the special leave petitions and the matter is likely to be listed on August 20, 2018.

Arbitration proceedings on issues related to the cost recovery of the Ravva block

We along with other joint operation partners (the “Contractor Parties”) are involved in a dispute against GoI relating to the recovery of contractual costs in terms of calculation of payments that the Contractor Parties were required to make in connection with the Ravva field.

The Ravva production sharing contract obliges the Contractor Parties to pay a proportionate share of ONGC’s exploration, development, production and contract costs in consideration for ONGC’s payment of costs related to construction and other activities it conducted in Ravva prior to the effective date of the Ravva production sharing contract (the ‘‘ONGC Carry’’). The question as to how the ONGC Carry was to be recovered and calculated, along with other issues, was submitted to an international arbitration tribunal in August 2002 which rendered a decision on the ONGC Carry in favor of the Contractor Parties whereas four other issues were decided in favor of GoI in October 2004 (the “Partial Award”).

The GoI then proceeded to challenge the ONGC Carry decision before the Malaysian courts, as Kuala Lumpur was the seat of the arbitration. On October 11, 2011, the Federal Court of Malaysia adjudicated the matter and upheld the Partial Award. Per the decision of the arbitral tribunal with regards to Partial Award, the Contractor Parties and the GoI were required to arrive at a quantification of the sums relating to each of the issues under the Partial Award. Also, the arbitral tribunal retained the jurisdiction for determination of any remaining issues in the matter.

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Pursuant to the decision of the Federal Court, the Contractor Parties approached the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (“MoPNG”) to implement the Partial Award while reconciling the statement of accounts as outlined in the Partial Award. GoI failed to implement the Partial Award by way of reconciling accounts as provided in the Partial Award ever since the Federal Court of Malaysia adjudicated in the Contractor Parties’ favor.

However, on July 10, 2014, MoPNG issued a show cause notice alleging that since the Partial Award has not been enforced the profit petroleum share of the GoI has been short-paid. MoPNG threatened to recover that amount from the sale proceeds payable by the oil marketing companies to the Contractor Parties. The Contractor Parties replied to the show cause notice taking various legal contentions. On March 9, 2015, a personal hearing took place between MoPNG and the Contractor Parties whereby the Contractor Parties expressed their concerns against such alleged unilateral recoveries and filed further written submissions on March 12, 2015.

Because the Partial Award did not quantify the sums, the Contractor Parties approached the same arbitral tribunal to pass a final award in the subject matter since the arbitral tribunal had retained the jurisdiction to do so. The arbitral tribunal was reconstituted and the final award was passed in Cairn’s favor in October 2016, upholding that no further amounts are due from the claimants. The award specifies that each party should bear costs equally. GoI’s challenge against the final award was dismissed by the High Court of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. GoI has subsequently filed an appeal against the high court’s decision before the Court of Appeal. While the Company does not believe the GoI will be successful in its challenge, if the arbitral award is reversed and such reversal is binding, we could be liable for approximately US $ 64 million ( 4,167 million) plus interest. Meanwhile, Vedanta Limited has filed a petition before the High Court of Delhi for the enforcement of the partial award and final award, which is scheduled for a hearing on September 4, 2018.

Proceedings, notices and enquires initiated by the Central Excise

The Central Excise department of the GoI had issued in July 2010 an ex-parte notice for reversal of Cenvat credit of ₹ 3,150 million ($ 48 million) along with interest of ₹ 88 million ($ 1 million) for the non-compliance of Rules 4(5a) and 4(6) of the Cenvat Credit Rules, in respect of non-return of job work challans for the period March 1, 2009 to September 30, 2009 within a stipulated time. In addition, it also alleged that we violated the advance license conditions from 2005 to 2009. In 2010, we filed four writ petitions WP No. 8123, 8135, 9744 and 9755 in the High Court of Madras against the Central Excise department. An associated contempt petition was also filed by us. All the above petitions were heard on July 29, 2010 and the High Court of Madras in relation to WP No. 8123 remanded the matter to be heard and determined afresh by a new set of officers of the Central Excise department. The High Court of Madras granted a stay in relation to WP No. 8135 in so far as relates to job work challan matter and until a fresh enquiry was made. Further, the High Court of Madras dismissed WP No. 9744, 9755 and the contempt petition.

The Central Excise department deputed the Assistant Commissioner of Central Excise to conduct an enquiry for the alleged non-compliance of Rules 4(5a) and 4(6) of the Cenvat Credit Rules in respect of non-return of job work challans. The Assistant Commissioner of Central Excise served a show cause notice on September 9, 2011. We filed a response before the Assistant Commissioner of Central Excise. After conducting a personal hearing, the Assistant Commissioner passed a favorable order on January 1, 2012 and dropped the entire demand for duty and interest. The department went into appeal before the Commissioner (Appeals) against this order, but the appeal was restricted only to the demand of interest. The Commissioner (Appeals) allowed the appeal on February 25, 2013 on the condition that interest would become applicable only in those cases where goods have not been sent back or cleared from the premises within 180 days from the date of dispatch from the Tuticorin unit. The verification whether any interest is payable or not has been completed and department raised the interest liability of ₹ 2 million ($ 0 million) which we have challenged before Tribunal on April 7, 2015 and the case has yet to be listed for hearing.

We filed two writ appeals no. 704 and 705 of 2011 in the High Court of Madras challenging the orders passed with respect to the writ petitions no. 8135 and 9744 of 2010. The writ petitions were admitted on August 1, 2011 and the Court ordered other party to maintain the status quo. In the meanwhile, the Commissioner of Customs, Tuticorin issued a show cause notice in January 2015 based on alleged violation of advance license conditions from 2005 to 2009 expressly mentioning that this show cause notice shall be kept pending and not be adjudicated unless and until directions are obtained from the High Court enabling such adjudication. We filed writ petition no. 626 of 2015 against this show cause notice, which was tied up with writ appeals no. 704 and 705 of 2011 and heard together. Thereafter, regular hearings took place in the High Court, and on March 12, 2015 the High Court gave an interim order, allowing one of the prayers in writ in form of injunction to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade actions in pursuit of the show cause notice received from customs department. During the course of the hearings, writ appeal no. 704 was withdrawn as it has become infructuous as it relates to the job work challan matter which has already been concluded. Writ appeal no. 705 of 2011 and writ petition no. 626 of 2015 were heard on March 11, 2016 and both were dismissed by the final judgment of the High Court dated August 1, 2016, as the High Court held that it did not find any impediment to customs authorities issuing show cause notice on the basis of materials gathered and input received from excise authorities. The High Court also required the Company to respond to the show cause notice dated January 13, 2015 within two weeks from receipt of the order and directed the Commissioner of Customs to conduct proceedings as expeditiously as possible. We have filed a special leave petition against the High Court’s order before the Supreme Court on August 24, 2016. The stay hearing before the Supreme Court on the special leave petition, took place on April 21, 2017 wherein the Supreme Court held that the commissioner of customs, Tuticorin may pass a final order against the notice but that it had to be kept in sealed cover. During hearing before Commissioner of Customs on September 5, 2017, we requested for cross-examination of witnesses and make available certain relevant documents, which was denied. We have filed an appeal before the Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT) against such rejection. On January 10, 2018, CESTAT allowed cross-examination of witnesses; however, our request to make available relevant documents was rejected. We are exploring to challenge the order of CESTAT before High Court.

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Petitions have been filed in the Rajasthan High Court relating to sales tax

We have filed two writ petitions before the High Court of Rajasthan, seeking to quash the two letters issued by Finance (Tax) department, Jaipur and to set aside the show cause notice issued by the Rajasthan Sales Tax Department, demanding Rajasthan VAT on sales of crude oil alleging that the sales are intra-state sale (as opposed to an inter-state sale). The matter was last heard on May 17, 2016 and the judgement dated July 13, 2016 allowed our petition and held that sale of crude oil should be regarded as interstate sale subject to central states tax and that Rajasthan VAT should not be applicable. Subsequently, the Rajasthan Sales Tax Department filed an appeal before the division bench of the High Court of Rajasthan on September 9, 2016, challenging the previous order. On April 4, 2018, division bench dismissed the petition filed by the Rajasthan Sales Tax Department.

Proceedings related to the Imposition of entry tax

Vedanta Limited and other group companies challenged the constitutional validity of the local statutes in Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Rajasthan levying entry tax on the entry of goods brought into the States from outside and other notifications, as being in violation of certain provisions of the Indian Constitution. Post some contradictory orders of High Courts across India adjudicating on similar challenges, the Supreme Court referred the matters to a nine judge bench. The Supreme Court through its order rejected the compensatory nature of tax as a ground for challenge and left all other issues open for adjudication by regular benches hearing the matter.

Post the order of the nine judge bench, the regular bench of the Supreme Court proceeded with hearing the matters. The regular bench remanded the entry tax matters relating to the issue of discrimination against domestic goods from other States to the respective High Courts for final determination but retained the issue of jurisdiction on levy on imported goods, for determination by regular bench of the Supreme Court. Following the order of the Supreme Court, we filed a writ petition in the High Courts of Rajasthan and Odisha. Hindustan Zinc Limited and BALCO have also filed writ petitions in the High Court of Rajasthan and High Court of Chhattisgarh respectively.

On October 9, 2017, the Supreme Court held that the States have the jurisdiction to levy entry tax on imported goods. With this Supreme Court judgement, imported goods will rank pari passu with domestic goods for the purpose of levy of entry tax. The company and its subsidiaries have amended the writ petitions in State of Odisha and State of Chhattisgarh to include imported goods as well. With respect to Rajasthan, the state government has filed a counter petition in the High Court of Rajasthan, whereby it has admitted that it does not intend to levy the entry tax on imported goods. The issue of discrimination has been remanded back to the High Courts for final adjudication.

In a related matter, the issue pertaining to levy of entry tax on movement of goods into a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) remains pending before the High Court of Odisha. Meanwhile, the Government of Odisha further through its SEZ Policy 2015 and the operational guidelines for administration of this policy dated August 22, 2016, exempted entry tax levy on SEZ operations.

Writ petition filed in the Delhi High Court by Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) relating to extension of tenure of the Production Sharing Contract for the Rajasthan block

Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) filed a writ petition before the High Court of Delhi against the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (“MoPNG”), the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (“DGH”) and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (“ONGC”) regarding the extension of the tenure for the Production Sharing Contract (“PSC”) for the RJ-ON-90/1 Block (“RJ Block”).

The RJ Block PSC is valid until May 14, 2020. Consistent with the terms of the PSC, given that the RJ Block is also producing natural gas, Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) has been requesting an extension of the tenure of the RJ Block PSC for a period of up to 10 years, i.e., until May 14, 2030. ONGC, Cairn’s joint venture partner in the RJ Block, is technically aligned on the recoverable resources potential of the RJ Block beyond the PSC period, until the proposed extension period up to 2030. Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) has been making regular requests to the MoPNG for extension of the tenure of the RJ Block PSC since the past few years. However, apart from seeking further technical and financial details, the MoPNG has not yet made a final decision in the matter.

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With regards to the MoPNG’s delay, a writ petition was filed by Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) on December 11, 2015, seeking relief from the High Court of Delhi. The High Court of Delhi on May 31, 2018 allowed the writ petition, directing GoI to extend the PSC for the RJ Block for a period of ten years beyond the current contract term in accordance with Article 2.1 of the PSC on the same terms and conditions. The decision of the Single Bench was appealed by GOI before the Division Bench High Court of Delhi, wherein Court indicated that the application filed by Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) in May 2018 for seeking extension of the PSC for ten years shall be decided/processed under the new extension policy dated April 7, 2017 (“Policy”) within a period of two months, notwithstanding the time prescribed in the Policy. In case of any further clarification required by GoI, Court directed that the request for the same must be forwarded to Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) within three weeks. The matter is next listed on October 29, 2018.

Writ petition filed in the High Court of Delhi by Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) relating to export of crude oil from RJ Block

Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) has filed a writ petition before the High Court of Delhi against the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (“DGFT”), the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (“MoPNG”), and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (“IOCL”) for the export of crude oil from the RJ Block.

Due to its nature and composition, RJ Block crude has the potential to be valued higher by refineries in other markets, beyond the prices being received from the GoI nominated buyers, namely IOCL and private refiners Reliance Industries Limited and Essar Oil Limited. Since 2009, Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) has been receiving bids from international buyers and refiners offering prices that are an additional US$3-4 per bbl more than the domestic sale prices for RJ Block crude.

In accordance with the provisions of the RJ Block PSC and the applicable GoI policies for crude oil export, Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) repeatedly requested IOCL and MoPNG to allow it to export RJ Block crude oil, to which there has been no firm response. Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) also made written requests to the DGFT to intervene in the matter, which again proved unsuccessful.

In view of the aforesaid, Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) filed a writ petition in the High Court of Delhi on December 11, 2015 to obtain relief in the form of orders to the DGFT, MoPNG and IOCL for approvals and authorizations to permit and facilitate the export of RJ Block crude oil, to the extent GoI nominated buyers are unable to cover the entire production. Through its order dated December 14, 2015, the High Court ordered the MoPNG, DGFT and IOCL to obtain necessary instructions on whether the GoI was willing to pick up the entire crude oil production from the RJ Block, or in the alternative was ready to grant permission to Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) to directly export the crude oil not covered by the GoI nominees.

The GoI’s stance thus far has been to deny Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business)’s request for export, although it has yet to present its complete arguments to the High Court of Delhi justifying such denial. Relying on the lack of consent from the GoI, DGFT also rejected Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business)’s request for export permission on February 16, 2016. During the course of arguments, the High Court of Delhi disagreed with GoI’s observations on the construct of Article 18 and observed that there was no embargo on export in the PSC nor in the policy. On October 18, 2016, the High Court set aside the writ petition on the grounds of it being without merits. Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) filed an appeal against the said order before the division bench of the High Court of Delhi and the matter is now reserved for judgment.

Legal actions by Indian Income tax Authorities for additional income tax

Income tax returns submitted by companies are subject to a comprehensive review and challenge by the tax authorities. There are appellate procedures available to both the tax authorities and taxpayers and it is not uncommon for significant or complex matters in dispute to remain outstanding for several years before they are finally resolved by the High Court or the Supreme Court of India. There are certain income tax legal proceedings which are pending against us. Potential liabilities, if any have been adequately provided for and we do not currently estimate any material incremental tax liability in respect of these matters. The Company and certain of its operating subsidiaries have been issued demands by the income tax authorities, principally in respect of tax holidays and disallowances of expenditures relating to exempt income, amounting to ₹ 63,348 million and ₹ 65,610 million ($ 1,008 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively.

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Legal actions by third parties, Indian sales tax, excise and related tax authorities for additional sales tax, excise and indirect duties

The Group is subject to various claims and exposures which arise in the ordinary course of conducting and financing its business from the excise, indirect tax authorities and others. These claims and exposures mostly relate to the assessable values of sales and purchases or to incomplete documentation supporting the companies’ returns or other claims.

The approximate total value of claims against the Group companies is ₹ 83,339 million and ₹ 67,079 million ($ 1,030 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Dividend Policy

Under Indian law, a company declares dividends (including interim dividends) upon a recommendation by its board of directors and approval by a majority of the shareholders at the annual general meeting of shareholders held within six months of the end of each fiscal year. However, while final dividends can be paid out by a company only after such dividends have been recommended by the board of directors and approved by shareholders, interim dividends can be paid out with only a recommendation by the board of directors, though such action is subject to subsequent sanction by the shareholders at the annual general meeting held within six months from the end of fiscal year. The shareholders have the right to decrease but not to increase the dividend amount recommended by the board of directors.

Under the Companies Act 2013, dividends in respect of a fiscal year may be paid out of the profits of a company in that fiscal year or out of the undistributed profits of previous fiscal years or both, after providing for depreciation in the manner provided for in the Companies Act, 2013. The Companies Act, 2013 and the Companies (Declaration and Payment of Dividend) Rules, 2015 provide that in the event of adequacy or absence of profits in any year, a company may declare dividends out of its free reserves subject to the following conditions:

If profits for that year are insufficient to declare dividends (including interim dividends), the dividends for that year may be declared and paid out from accumulated profits on the following conditions:

•

The rate of dividend declared shall not exceed the average of the rates at which dividend was declared by it in the three years immediately preceding that year;

•

The total amount to be drawn from such accumulated profits shall not exceed one-tenth of the sum of its paid-up share capital and free reserves as appearing in the latest audited financial statement;

•

The amount so drawn shall first be utilized to set off the losses incurred in the financial year in which dividend is declared before any dividend in respect of equity shares is declared;

•

The balance of reserves after such withdrawal shall not fall below 15.0% of its paid up share capital as appearing in the latest audited financial statement.

The Company may, before the declaration of any dividend in any financial year, transfer such percentage of its profits for that financial year as it may consider appropriate to the reserves of the Company.

Dividends (including interim dividends) must be paid within 30 days from the date of the declaration and any dividend which remains unpaid or unclaimed after that period must be transferred within seven days from the date of expiry of the said period of thirty (30) days to a special unpaid dividend account held at a scheduled bank. We must transfer any money which remains unpaid or unclaimed for seven years from the date of such transfer to the Investor Education and Protection Fund established by the GoI.

The tax rates imposed on us in respect of dividends paid in prior periods have varied. According to the Finance Act, 2014, dividend distribution tax is to be levied on gross distributable surplus amount instead of amount paid net of taxes. This resulted in an increase in the dividend distribution tax to more than 20% from 16.995% from October 2014. The Finance Act 2015 increased the surcharge from 10% to 12%, and the applicable tax rate for fiscal year 2016 was 20.358%. Further, the Finance Act 2016 provided that any income earned by an individual, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) or a firm, who is a resident in India, by way of dividend declared, distributed or paid by any domestic company in excess of ₹ 1,000,000 in aggregate shall be chargeable to tax at the rate of 10% on a gross basis on such amount exceeding ₹ 1,000,000. Under Section 115 O (1A) of the Finance Act, 2009, effective April 1, 2009, an Indian company, subject to certain conditions, can set off the dividend income received from its subsidiaries against the amount of dividend income declared by it to its shareholders, thereby reducing the dividend distribution tax to the extent of such set-off.

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Future dividends will depend on our revenue, cash flows, financial condition (including capital position) and other factors. ADS holders will be entitled to receive dividends payable in respect of the equity shares represented by the ADSs. Cash dividends in respect of the equity shares represented by the ADSs will be paid to the depositary in Indian Rupees and, except as otherwise described under the deposit agreement governing the issuance of our ADSs, will be converted by the depositary into US dollars. The depositary will distribute these proceeds to ADS holders. The equity shares represented by the ADSs will rank equally with all other equity shares in respect of dividends. ADS holders will bear all of the currency exchange rate risk of the conversion of any dividends from Indian Rupees to US dollars, and a decline in the value of the Indian Rupee as compared to the US dollar would reduce the US dollar value of any dividends we pay that are received by ADS holders.

The Company’s Board of Directors approved the Dividend Distribution Policy for the Company at its meeting held on May 15, 2017. The Board of Directors shall recommend dividends in compliance with this policy, the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and Rules made thereunder and other applicable legal provisions.

1. Dividend Payout

In every financial year, the Company aims to distribute to its equity shareholders:

The entire dividend income (net of taxes) it receives from its subsidiary, Hindustan Zinc Limited. (this does not apply to any one-time special dividends received from Hindustan Zinc Ltd. which will be at the discretion of the Board); and

ii.

Minimum 30% (including taxes, cess, and levies, if any relating to the dividend) of attributable profit after tax (before exceptional items) of the Company excluding its share of profits in Hindustan Zinc Limited for the year. Such profits will be net of dividend payout to preference shareholders, if any.

2. While considering a dividend, the following financial parameters, and internal and external factors shall also be evaluated by the Board:

While considering a dividend, the following financial parameters, and internal and external factors shall also be evaluated by the Board:

•

Current financial year’s profits and retained earnings

•

Availability of cash and liquid investments to pay dividends

•

Deleveraging plans of the Company

•

Capital expenditures and organic/ inorganic plans of the Company

•

Contingency plans

•

Company’s future prospects including its continued ability to sustain its profits; and

•

External factors such as uncertain or recessionary economic and business conditions, regulatory environment, prevailing and expected commodity prices in the market.

3. Circumstances under which the shareholders of the Company may or may not expect dividends:

Generally, it would be the Company’s policy to pay dividends in the manner specified above. However, the Board may not approve a dividend in certain situations such as:

•

When the Company does not have any profits

•

When there are prolonged strikes or lockouts, natural calamities, regulatory actions, major accidents or other events significantly impacting production volumes;

•

When prices of the Company’s products have fallen suddenly, impacting future profits in substantial manner, or

•

When the Company’s liquidity is jeopardized for any reason, impairing its ability to pay the dividend.

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4. How retained earnings shall be utilized:

The retained earnings may be utilized either for business purposes mentioned in its Memorandum and Articles of Association or shall be distributed to the equity shareholders.

5. Adoption of parameters for dividend payouts with respect to various classes of shares:

•

Presently, the authorized share capital of the Company is divided into equity shares of ₹ 1 each and preference shares of ₹ 10 each.

•

As and when the Company issues other kinds of shares, the Board may suitably amend this Policy

6. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed periodically by the Board and if revised, the Company will announce such changes. This Policy will come into effect from fiscal year 2018.

B. Significant Changes

Acquisition of Electrosteel Steels Limited

See Note 33 (a) “Subsequent Events” in the Notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Suspension of operations at Copper Division

See Note 3 W (xii) with respect to copper operations.

Buy back and delisting of Vedanta’s shares

On July 2, 2018, Volcan and the independent Board of Vedanta announced that they have reached an agreement in principle on the key terms for a possible recommended all cash offer to be made by Volcan at a price of 825 pence per share for the remaining issued and to be issued share capital of Vedanta, not currently owned by Volcan. The terms of this offer were finalized on July 31, 2018. Under the terms of the offer, Vedanta’s shareholders will receive $10.89 per share in cash for each Vedanta’s share. The offer price implies an equivalent value of 825 pence per Vedanta’s share based on the exchange rate of £:US$ of 1.3203 as at June 29, 2018. In addition, Vedanta’s shareholders will be entitled to receive the dividend of $0.41 per Vedanta’s share in respect of the twelve months ended March 31, 2018. It is intended that the offer will be implemented by means of a contractual takeover offer under the Takeover Code in the United Kingdom.

As of July 31, 2018, Volcan Investments and its concert parties hold 188,467,922 Vedanta’s shares representing approximately 66.87 per cent of Vedanta’s total issued share capital. Based on the current interests of Volcan Investments and its concert parties, it is expected that the Delisting Threshold will be met if and when Volcan Investments and its concert parties hold or Volcan Investments has received valid acceptances in respect of the offer relating to, in aggregate, approximately 83 per cent of the issued share capital of Vedanta.

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In case a firm offer is made and is declared wholly unconditional with sufficient acceptances having been received from Vedanta’s independent shareholders, Volcan intends to procure that Vedanta will make an application for the cancellation of its shares on the official list and for the cancellation of their admission to trading on the London Stock Exchange’s main market for listed securities.

ITEM 9.

THE OFFER AND LISTING

A. Offer and Listing Details

The ADSs of SIIL evidenced by American Depositary Receipts, or ADRs, commenced trading on the NYSE on June 20, 2007 at an initial offering price of $ 13.44 per ADS. The ADRs evidencing ADSs were issued by our Depositary, Citibank, N.A., pursuant to a deposit agreement. Our ADSs evidenced by ADRs, commenced trading on the NYSE, on September 9, 2013 at a price of $ 10.25 per ADS, after the Re-organization Transactions became effective on August 17, 2013.

In July 2009, in connection with the offering of ADSs, each representing one equity share of par value ₹ 2, SIIL issued 131,906,011 new equity shares in the form of ADSs, at a price of $ 12.15 per ADS, aggregating approximately $ 1,603 million. Out of 131,906,011 equity shares, 41,152,263 equity shares were issued to Twin Star, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vedanta.

As of March 31, 2018, 3,717,504,871 of our equity shares were outstanding (including the 248,424,696 equity shares underlying our 62,106,174 ADSs outstanding as of such date) after giving effect to the bonus issue and share split which includes 308,232 equity shares pending allotment as they are under dispute. All our equity shares are registered shares.

We have executed a Uniform Listing Agreement with the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. Subsequent to this, we are required to comply with certain regulations in addition to the requirements under the Companies Act 2013. Our outstanding equity shares are currently listed and traded on the NSE and BSE in India. For information regarding conditions in the Indian securities markets, see “Item 3. Key Information – D. Risk Factors – Risks Relating to Investments in Indian Companies, Global Economic Conditions and International Operations.”

The following table shows:

•

the reported high and low trading prices for our ADSs in US dollars on the NYSE; and

•

the imputed high and low trading prices for our equity shares, translated into US dollars, based on the Indian Rupee prices for such equity shares as quoted in the official list of each of the NSE and BSE and the noon buying rate of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on the last business day of each period presented;


	NYSE Price Per ADS				Average NYSE Daily ADS Share Trading		NSE Price Per Equity Share				Average NSE Daily Equity Share Trading		BSE Price Per Equity Share				Average BSE Daily Equity Share Trading
Fiscal Year	High ($)		Low ($)		Volume		High ($)		Low ($)		Volume		High ($)		Low ($)		Volume

2014(1)		13.59		4.76		537,824		3.56		1.17		6,757,850		3.55		1.17		947,611
2015		21.36		11.43		197,421		5.11		2.86		6,112,054		5.11		2.86		778,407
2016		14.43		3.52		226,508		3.52		0.88		12,085,613		3.52		0.88		1,483,779
2017		17.34		5.00		255,136		4.29		1.31		13,400,496		4.29		1.31		1,289,988
2018		21.99		13.78		481,231		5.46		3.34		10,521,105		5.46		3.35		882,330
2017
1st Quarter		7.88		5.00		181,096		1.97		1.26		16,364,315		1.97		1.26		1,723,696
2nd Quarter		10.59		7.78		198,747		2.72		1.99		13,760,158		2.71		1.98		1,424,610
3rd Quarter		14.40		10.57		319,657		3.66		2.55		12,999,902		3.66		2.55		1,142,668
4th Quarter		17.34		12.60		325,404		4.29		3.31		10,477,609		4.29		3.31		871,354
2018
1st Quarter		17.19		13.78		511,800		4.29		3.37		12,887,198		4.30		3.37		1,147,010
2nd Quarter		20.92		15.60		465,159		5.12		3.83		10,265,246		5.12		3.83		912,142
3rd Quarter		21.63		17.35		390,208		5.43		4.35		8,327.061		5.43		4.35		690,289
4th Quarter		21.99		17.03		560,527		5.46		4.13		10,651,408		5.46		4.13		780,376
2019
1st Quarter
Last Six Months
January 2018		21.99		20.45		556,608		5.59		5.01		8,856,684		5.59		5.02		608,192
February 2018		21.67		18.75		518,401		5.31		4.68		11,389,022		5.30		4.68		926,413
March 2018		20.29		17.03		522,335		5.12		4.13		11,991,897		5.13		4.13		833,711
April 2018		19.05		16.78		507,626		4.71		4.08		12,095,299		4.71		4.08		829,964
May 2018		17.69		14.36		780,240		4.40		3.53		14,084,848		4.42		3.53		857,333
June 2018		15.14		13.01		676,090		3.77		3.24		16,569,000		3.77		3.25		1,305,313
July 2018 (through July 20, 2018)		13.88		11.71		357,802		3.55		2.92		12,063,154		3.55		2.92		768,585

Notes:

(1)	The first trading day on the NYSE was September 9, 2013 and on the BSE and the NSE was August 27, 2013 since the

Re-organization Transactions became effective. Since this date, the information relating to the high and low market prices and the average daily trading volumes of the ADSs and the shares are of Vedanta Limited.

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B. Plan of Distribution

Not applicable

C. Markets

Our ADSs are listed on the NYSE under the symbol VEDL. Our equity shares are listed on the NSE with stock code VEDL and on the BSE with stock code 500295. Prior to the change of name to Vedanta Limited, the ADSs were listed on the NYSE under the symbol “SSLT” and equity shares were listed on the NSE with stock code SSLT/EQ and on the BSE with stock code 500295.

D. Selling Shareholders

Not applicable

E. Dilution

Not applicable

F. Expenses of the Issue

Not applicable

ITEM 10.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A. Share Capital

Not applicable

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

General

Our Company identification number is L13209MH1965PLC291394. Our registered office is presently situated at 1st Floor, C Wing, Unit 103, Corporate Avenue, Atul Projects, Chakala, Andheri (East), Mumbai 400093, Maharashtra, India. The register of members is maintained at the registered office of the Company, office of the registrar and share transfer agent, Karvy Computer Share Private Limited in Hyderabad.

The corporate legal framework governing companies in India has undergone a change with the enactment of the Companies Act, 2013 (including any statutory modification/ amendments made thereto). The Companies Act, 2013 has replaced the Companies Act, 1956. While some provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 have been notified as law, other provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 are yet to be notified as effective by the GoI. Pending notification of the Companies Act, 2013 in its entirety, certain provisions of the Companies Act, 1956, which have not ceased to be effective by enactment of the corresponding provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 continue to be effective, along with the notified provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 including any statutory modifications/ amendments thereto.

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Accordingly, the legal framework governing us is the Companies Act, 1956 read with the notified sections of the Companies Act, 2013 and Rule made thereunder (the “Indian Companies Act”) and the SEBI Regulations including any statutory modification/ amendments.

Our activities are regulated by our Memorandum and Articles of Association. Our current Memorandum and Articles of Association were amended following the enactment of Companies Act, 2013. In addition to our Memorandum and Articles of Association, our activities are regulated by certain legislation, including the Indian Companies Act, the Securities Contract Regulation Act and the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Rules, 1957, as amended.

Our Memorandum of Association permits us to engage in a wide variety of activities, including all of the activities that we are currently engaged in or intend to be engaged in, as well as other activities that we currently have no intention of engaging in. Our objects are set out at clause 3 of our Memorandum of Association. Pursuant to the National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai bench order dated March 23, 2017, the main objects clause of our Memorandum of Association has been amended to include the objects as required for the purpose of carrying on the business activities of Cairn. Below listed are the amended clauses:

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Sub-clause 12E: To carry on in India and elsewhere in the world the business or businesses of surveying, prospecting, drilling and exploring for, acquiring, developing, producing, maintaining, refining, storing, trading, supplying, transporting, marketing, distributing, importing, exporting and generally dealing in minerals and other natural oils, petroleum and all other forms of solid, liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons and other minerals and their products and by-products and all their branches.

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Sub-clause 12F: To search for, purchase, take on lease or license, obtain concessions over or otherwise acquire, any estate or interest in, develop the resources of, work, dispose of, or otherwise turn to account, land or sea or any other place in India or in any other part of the world containing, or thought likely to contain, oil, petroleum, petroleum resource or alternate source of energy or other oils in any form, asphalt, bitumen or similar substances or natural gas, chemicals or any substances used, or which is thought likely to be useful for any purpose for which petroleum or other oils in any form, asphalt, bitumen or similar substances, or natural gas is, or could be used and to that end to organize, equip and employ expeditions, commissions, experts and other agents and to sink wells, to make borings and otherwise to search for, obtain, exploit, develop, render suitable for trade, petroleum, other mineral oils, natural gas, asphalt, or other similar substances or products thereof.

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Clause V: The Authorized Share Capital of the Company is ₹ 74,120,100,000 divided into 44,020,100,000 number of equity shares of ₹ 1 each and 3,010,000,000 redeemable preference shares of ₹ 10 each.

Share Capital

Prior to the Cairn India Merger, our authorized share capital was ₹ 51,270 million divided into 51,270 million equity shares of par value ₹ 1 per equity share. After giving effect to the Cairn India Merger, our authorized share capital changed to ₹ 44,020 million divided into 44,020 million equity shares of par value ₹ 1 per equity share. As of March 31, 2018 our issued share capital was ₹ 3,717.5 million, divided into 3,717,504,871 equity shares of par value ₹ 1 per equity share. 308,232 equity shares of our total issued capital has not been issued and allotted by us as they are under dispute. In April 2017, pursuant to the Cairn India Merger, equity shares totaling ₹ 752.5 million were issued to the non-controlling shareholders of Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business). After issuance of equity shares to the non-controlling shareholders of Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business), our issued share capital changed to ₹ 3,717 million, divided into 3,717,196,639 equity shares of par value ₹ 1 per equity share which does not include 308,232 equity shares of our total issued capital pending allotment by us as they are under dispute.

As of March 31, 2018, 3,717,504,871 equity shares, par value ₹ 1 per equity share, were issued and outstanding (including 308,232 equity shares which have been issued but pending allotment), of which 248,424,696 equity shares were held in the form of 62,106,174 ADSs. Each ADS represents four equity shares.

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Changes in Capital or our Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association

Subject to the Indian Companies Act and our Articles of Association, we may, by passing an ordinary resolution or a special resolution, as applicable, at a general meeting transact the following matters, provided that the matters that were required to be passed through postal ballot as per the provisions of Section 110 of the Companies Act, 2013 may be transacted at general meeting provided facility to members to vote be electronic means is provided :

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increase our share capital with such rights and privileges, or modify the rights and privileges associated with the existing shares, as directed in the general meeting, or as determined by the Board;

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issue shares with a preferential right to dividends, and in repayment of paid-up share capital on the winding up of the Company, and with a right to vote only on resolutions placed before the Company which directly affect the rights attached to such preference shares owned and any resolution for the winding up of the company or for the repayment or reduction of equity or preference share capital and his voting right on a poll shall be in proportion to the share in the paid-up preference share capital of the Company;

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sub-divide or consolidate our shares, or any of them, and the resolution whereby any share sub-divided or consolidated may determine that, as between the holders of the shares resulting from such sub-division or consolidation, one or more of such shares shall have some preference or special advantage as regards dividend, capital or otherwise over or as compared with the others;

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issue preference shares which are redeemable, which are to be redeemed on such terms and conditions and in such manner determined by the Board in accordance with the Act;

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split all or any part of our shares into a larger number of shares each with a smaller par value;

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convert any of our paid-up shares into stock, and reconvert any stock into any number of paid-up shares of any denomination;

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issue sweat equity shares of a class of shares already issued subject to the terms and conditions prescribed in Section 54 of the Companies Act, 2013;

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cancel shares which, at the date of passing of the resolution, have not been taken or agreed to be taken by any person, and diminish the amount of the authorized share capital by the amount of the shares so cancelled;

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reduce our issued share capital; or

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alter our Memorandum of Association or Articles of Association.

Under our Articles of Association and pursuant to the applicable provisions of the Indian Companies Act, the shares (including any shares forming part of any increased share capital of the company) shall be under the control of the Board of directors of the company, who may allot or otherwise dispose of the same to such persons in such proportion, on such terms and conditions and at such times as the directors think fit and subject to the sanctions of the shareholder in general meeting with full power, to give any person the option to call for or be allotted shares of any class of the company either (subject to the provisions of Section 52 and 53 of the Companies Act, 2013) at a premium or at a par such option being exercisable for such time and for such consideration as the directors thinks fit.

Directors

Under our Articles of Association there is no provision for a director to hold any qualification shares. According to the Indian Companies Act, the age limit for retirement of whole time directors is 70 years, provided that appointment of a person who has attained the age of 70 years may be made by passing a special resolution in which case the explanatory statement annexed to the notice for such motion shall indicate the justification for appointing such person; provided further that where no such special resolution is passed but votes cast in favour of the motion exceed the votes, if any, cast against the motion and the Central Government is satisfied, on an application made by the Board, that such appointment is most beneficial to the company, the appointment of the person who has attained the age of seventy years may be made. Provided further that where no such special resolution is passed but votes cast in favour of the motion exceed the votes, if any, cast against the motion and the Central Government is satisfied, on an application made by the Board, that such appointment is most beneficial to the company, the appointment of the person who has attained the age of seventy years may be made. Further in addition, under the Companies Act, 2013 every listed entity is required to appoint atleast one women director. Subsequent to the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) (Amendment) Regulations, 2018, no listed entity shall appoint a person or continue the directorship of any person as a non-executive director who has attained the age of seventy five years unless a special resolution is passed to that effect and the explanatory to the notice to justify the appointment wef April 1, 2019.

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Any director who is directly or indirectly interested in a contract or arrangement or proposed contract or arrangement entered into or to be entered into by us or on our behalf is required to disclose the nature of his interest at a meeting of the Board and such interested director shall not participate in any discussion of, or vote on, any contract, arrangement or proposal in which he is interested. In addition, we are prohibited from making loans, directly or indirectly, or providing any guarantee or security, directly or indirectly, in connection with any loans made by a third party, to our directors or any other concern where directors are interested. A director is required to disclose his personal interest to the board of directors on an annual basis and at the first meeting of the board of directors after the interest arises.

Alteration of Shareholder Rights

Pursuant to Section 48 of the Companies Act, 2013, and subject to the provisions of the articles of association of a company and the relevant rules as issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, where the share capital of a company is divided into different classes of shares, the rights of any class of shareholders can only be altered or varied with the consent in writing of the holders of not less than three-fourths of the issued shares of that class or by a special resolution passed at a separate meeting of the holders of the issued shares of that class, or pursuant to a judicial order sanctioning a compromise or arrangement between the company and such class of shareholders.

General Meetings of Shareholders

There are two types of general meetings of shareholders, an annual general meeting and an extraordinary general meeting. We must convene our annual general meeting within 9 months from the date of closing of the first financial year of the Company and in any other case within a period of 6 months from the date of closing of the financial year and must ensure that the intervening period between two annual general meetings does not exceed 15 months. The Registrar of Companies may extend this period in special circumstances at our request. As per the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Amendment Regulations, 2018 the top 100 listed entity as per market capitalization shall hold AGM within a period of five months from the date of closing of financial year. Further one-way live webcast of the proceedings of the AGM is is also required to be provided with effect from April 1, 2019. Extraordinary general meetings may be convened at any time by our directors at their discretion or at the request of our shareholders holding in the aggregate not less than 10.0% of our paid-up capital as on that date which carries voting rights. A notice in writing or through electronic mode to convene a general meeting must set out the date, time, place and agenda of the meeting and must be provided to shareholders at least 21 days prior to the date of the proposed meeting. The requirement of the 21 days’ notice in writing may be waived if consent to shorter notice in writing or electronic mode is received provided that a general meeting may be called after giving shorter notice than that specified in this sub-section if consent, in writing or by electronic mode, is accorded thereto–

(i) in the case of an annual general meeting, by not less than ninety-five per cent of the members entitled to vote thereat; and (ii) in the case of any other general meeting, by members of the company -

(a) holding, if the company has a share capital, majority in number of members entitled to vote and who represent not less than ninety-five per cent. of such part of the paid-up share capital of the company as gives a right to vote at the meeting; or (b) having, if the company has no share capital, not less than ninety-five per cent. of the total voting power exercisable at that meeting: Provided further that where any member of a company is entitled to vote only on some resolution or resolutions to be moved at a meeting and not on the others, those members shall be taken into account for the purposes of this sub section in respect of the former resolution or resolutions and not in respect of the latter.

Under the Indian Companies Act, general meetings are to be held either at the registered office or at another place within the city, town or village in which the registered office is situated, provided that annual general meeting of an unlisted company may be held at any place in India if consent is given in writing or by electronic mode by all the members in advance. Business may be transacted at a general meeting only when a quorum of shareholders is present. Thirty members personally present, entitled to attend and to vote on the business to be transacted, will constitute a quorum.

The annual general meetings deal with and dispose of all matters prescribed by our Articles of Association and by the Indian Companies Act, including the following ordinary business matters:

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the consideration of our annual financial statements and report of our directors and auditors;

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re-appointment of directors who are liable to retire by rotation;

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the appointment of auditors and the fixing of their remuneration;

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the approval of dividends; and

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the transaction of any other business of which notice has been given.

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Division of Shares

The Indian Companies Act provides that a company may sub-divide its share capital if its Articles of Association authorize the company to do so by adopting an ordinary resolution in its general meeting.

Our Articles of Association allow us in a general meeting to alter our Memorandum of Association and subdivide all or any of our equity shares into a larger number of shares with a smaller par value than originally fixed by the Memorandum of Association.

Dividends

Under the Indian Companies Act, unless the board of directors recommends the payment of a dividend, the shareholders at a general meeting have no power to declare any dividend. The board of directors may also declare and pay interim dividends. The Board of Directors of a company may declare interim dividend during any financial year or at any time during the period from closure of financial year till holding of the annual general meeting out of the surplus in the profit and loss account or out of profits of the financial year for which such interim dividend is sought to be declared or out of profits generated in the financial year till the quarter preceding the date of declaration of the interim dividend. Provided that in case the company has incurred loss during the current financial year up to the end of the quarter immediately preceding the date of declaration of interim dividend, such interim dividend shall not be declared at a rate higher than the average dividends declared by the company during the immediately preceding three financial years. A company pays dividends recommended by the board of directors and approved by a majority of the shareholders at the annual general meeting of shareholders for the financial year. The shareholders have the right to decrease but not increase the final dividend amount recommended by the board of directors. Listed companies are required to declare and disclose the dividends paid on a per share basis only. The dividend recommended by the board of directors and approved by the shareholders at a general meeting is distributed and paid to shareholders in proportion to the paid up value of their equity shares. The Indian Companies Act provides that shares of a company of the same class must receive equal dividend treatment. Dividends can be paid in cash or by cheque or in any electronic mode to the registered shareholder at a record date or book closure fixed on or prior to the annual general meeting or to his order or his banker’s order. No shareholder is entitled to a dividend while any lien in respect of unpaid calls on any of such shareholder’s shares is outstanding.

These distributions and payments are required to be paid to shareholders within 30 days of the annual general meeting where the resolution for declaration of dividends is approved. The dividend so declared is required to be deposited in a separate bank account within a period of 5 days from the date of declaration of such dividend. All dividends unpaid or unclaimed within a period of 30 days from the date of declaration of such dividend must be transferred within seven days of the end of such period to a special unpaid dividend account held at a scheduled bank. The company shall, within a period of 90 days of making any transfer of an amount to the unpaid dividend account, prepare a statement containing the names, their last known addresses and the unpaid dividend to be paid to each person and place it on the website of the company and also on any other website approved by the Central Government for this purpose. Any dividend which remains unpaid or unclaimed for a period of seven years from the date of the transfer to an unpaid dividend account must be transferred along with interest accrued to the Investor Education and Protection Fund along with a statement containing such details. Also, all shares in respect of which unpaid or unclaimed dividends have been transferred shall also be transferred by the company in the name of this fund along with a statement containing such details as may be prescribed.

Under the Companies Act 2013, dividends in respect of a fiscal year may be paid out of the profits of a company in that fiscal year or out of the undistributed profits of previous fiscal years or both, after providing for depreciation in a manner provided for in the Companies Act, 2013. The Companies Act, 2013 and the Companies (Declaration and Payment of Dividend) Rules, 2015 provide that in an event of adequacy or absence of profits in any year, a company may declare dividend out of its reserves subject to the fulfillment of the following conditions, such as:

(i)	If profits for that year are insufficient to declare dividends (including interim dividends), the dividends for that year may be declared and paid out from reserves on the following conditions:

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The rate of dividend declared shall not exceed the average of the rates at which dividend was declared by it in the three years immediately preceding that year;

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The total amount to be drawn from free reserves shall not exceed one-tenth of the sum of its paid-up share capital and free reserves as appearing in the latest audited financial statement;

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The amount so drawn shall first be utilized to set off the losses incurred in the financial year in which dividend is declared before any dividend in respect of equity shares is declared;

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The balance of reserves after such withdrawal shall not fall below 15.0% of its paid up share capital as appearing in the latest audited financial statement; and

(ii)	No company shall declare dividend unless carried over previous losses and depreciation not provided in previous year or years are set off against profit of the company for the current year.

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Voting Rights

Subject to any special terms as to voting on which any shares may have been issued, every shareholder entitled to vote who is present in person (including any corporation present by its duly authorized representative) shall on a show of hands have one vote and every shareholder present in person or by proxy shall on a poll have one vote for each share of which he is the holder. In the case of joint holders, only one of them may vote and in the absence of election as to who is to vote, the vote of the senior of the joint holders who tenders a vote, whether in person or by proxy, shall be accepted to the exclusion of the votes of the other joint holders. Seniority is determined by the order in which the names appear in the register of members.

According to the Companies Act, 2013 and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligation and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 (“SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015”) effective December 1, 2015, for listed companies, voting at general meetings has to be done by electronic voting (“e-voting”). For those shareholders who are unable to vote through this facility, the facility of physical voting through ballot papers is provided at the meeting. Upon a poll, the voting rights of each shareholder entitled to vote and present in person or by proxy shall be proportionate to the capital paid-up on each share against our total paid-up capital. In the case of a tie vote, the chairman of the meeting, who is generally the chairman of our Board of directors, has the right to cast a tie-breaking vote.

A shareholder may appoint any person (whether or not a shareholder) to act as his proxy to vote on polls conducted at any meeting of shareholders (or of any class of shareholders) in respect of all or a particular number of the shares held by him. A shareholder may appoint more than one person to act as his proxy and each such person shall act as proxy for the shareholder for the number of shares specified in the instrument appointing the person a proxy. Any person appointed as proxy shall act on behalf of a shareholder not exceeding fifty members and holding not more than 10.0% of the aggregate share capital carrying voting rights. The shareholder holding more than 10.0% of the total share capital of the Company carrying voting rights may appoint a single person as proxy and in that case, the person appointed as proxy for such shareholder cannot act as proxy for any other person or shareholder. The instrument appointing a proxy must be delivered to our registered office at least 48 hours prior to the meeting or in case of a poll, not less than 24 hours before the time appointed for taking the poll. If a shareholder appoints more than one person to act as his proxy, each instrument appointing a proxy shall specify the number of shares held by the shareholder for which the relevant person is appointed as his proxy. A proxy does not have a right to speak at meetings and not entitled to vote except on poll. A corporate shareholder is also entitled to nominate a representative to attend and vote on its behalf at general meetings. Such a representative is not considered a proxy and he has the same rights as the shareholder by whom he was appointed to speak at a meeting and vote at a meeting in respect of the number of shares held by the shareholder, including on a show of hands and a poll.

Subject to the Articles of Association, the Companies (Share Capital and Debentures) Rules, 2014, and the Indian Companies Act, the Company is allowed to issue equity shares with different rights subject to compliance with the provisions of the abovementioned rules and the Indian Companies Act.

Quorum

Our Articles of Association provide that a quorum for a general meeting is at least thirty shareholders personally present, if the number of members as on the date of the meeting is exceeding five thousand to vote, in accordance with the Companies Act, 2013.

Shareholder Resolutions

An ordinary resolution requires the affirmative vote of a majority of our shareholders entitled to vote in person or electronically or by proxy or by a poll at a general meeting.

A resolution shall be a special resolution when, the intention to propose the resolution as a special resolution has been duly specified in the notice calling the general meeting or other intimation given to the members of the resolution. A special resolution requires the affirmative vote of not less than three times the number of the votes, if any cast against the resolution by members so entitled and voting in person or electronically or by proxy at a general meeting and casting a vote. The Indian Companies Act provides that to amend the Articles of Association, a special resolution approving such an amendment must be passed in a general meeting. Certain amendments, including a change in the name of the company, to approve reduction of share capital, to approve variation of rights of special classes of shares, to issue further shares without pre-emptive rights to non-members or to convert loans or debentures into shares, to commence any new line of business and dissolution of the company require a special resolution.

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Further, the Companies (Management and Administration) Rules, 2014 requires certain resolutions be transacted through means of postal ballot as notified, the following items of business shall be transacted only by means of voting through a postal ballot:

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alteration of the objects clause of the Memorandum;

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alteration of the articles of association in relation to insertion or removal of provisions which are required to be included in the articles of a company in order to constitute it as a private company;

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change in place of registered office outside the local limits of any city, town or village;

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change in objects for which a company has raised money from public and still has any proceeds unutilized;

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issue of shares with differential rights regarding voting or dividend or otherwise under Section 43(a)(ii) of the Companies Act, 2013;

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variation in the rights attached to a class of shares or debentures or other securities as specified under Section 48 of the Companies Act, 2013;

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buyback of shares;

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election of a director under Section 151 of the Companies Act, 2013;

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sale of whole or substantially the whole of an undertaking of a company as specified under Section 180(1)(a) of the Companies Act, 2013;

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giving loans or extending guarantee or providing security in excess of the limit specified under Section 186(3) of the Companies Act, 2013.

Provided that any aforesaid items of business under this sub-rule, required to be transacted by means of postal ballot, may be transacted at a general meeting by a company which is required to provide the facility to members to vote by electronic means under section 108, in the manner provided in that section

Provided further that One Person Companies and other companies having members upto two hundred are not required to transact any business through postal ballot

In addition to the above, the Company may at its discretion transact by means of a postal ballot in respect of any item of business, other than ordinary business and any business in respect of which directors or auditors have a right to be heard at any meeting.

Distribution of Assets on a Winding-up

In accordance with the Indian Companies Act, all surplus assets remaining after payments are made to employees, statutory creditors, tax and revenue authorities, secured and unsecured creditors and the holders of any preference shares (though not in that order), shall be distributed among our equity shareholders in proportion to the amount paid up or credited as paid-up on such shares at the commencement of the winding-up.

Transfer of Shares

Under the Indian Companies Act, the shares of a public company are freely transferable, unless such a transfer contravenes applicable law or the regulations issued by SEBI. The transferor is deemed to remain the holder until the transferee’s name is entered in the register of members.

In the case of shares held in physical form, we will register any transfer of equity shares in the register of members upon lodgment of the duly completed share transfer form, the relevant share certificate, or if there is no certificate, the letter of allotment, in respect of shares to be transferred together with duly stamped share transfer forms. In respect of electronic transfers, the depositary transfers shares by entering the name of the purchaser in its register as the beneficial owner of the shares. In turn, we then enter the name of the depositary in our records as the registered owner of the shares. The beneficial owner is entitled to all the rights and benefits and is subject to the liabilities attached to the shares held by the depositary on his or her or its behalf.

Equity shares held through depositaries are transferred in the form of book entries or in electronic form in accordance with the regulations laid down by SEBI. These regulations provide the regime for the functioning of the depositaries and the participants and set out the manner in which the records are to be kept and maintained and the safeguards to be followed in this system.

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SEBI requires that our equity shares for trading and settlement purposes be in book-entry form for all investors, except for transactions that are not made on a stock exchange and transactions that are not required to be reported to the stock exchange. Transfers of equity shares in book-entry form require both the seller and the purchaser of the equity shares to establish accounts with depositary participants appointed by depositaries established under the Depositories Act, 1996. Charges for opening an account with a depositary participant, transaction charges for each trade and custodian charges for securities held in each account vary depending upon the practice of each depositary participant.

The depositary transfers equity shares by entering the name of the purchaser in its books as the beneficial owner of the equity shares. In turn, we will enter the name of the depositary in our records as the registered owner of the equity shares. The beneficial owner is entitled to all the rights and benefits as well as the liabilities with respect to the equity shares that are held by the depositary. The register and index of beneficial owners maintained by our depositary is deemed to be a register and index of our members and debenture holders under the Depositories Act, 1996. Transfers of beneficial ownership held through a depositary are exempt from stamp duty. For this purpose, we have entered into an agreement for depositary services with the National Securities Depositary Limited and the Central Depositary Services India Limited.

The requirement to hold the equity shares in book-entry form will apply to the ADS holders when the equity shares are withdrawn from the depositary facility upon surrender of the ADSs. In order to trade the equity shares in the Indian market, the withdrawing ADS holder will be required to comply with the procedures described above.

Our Articles of Association provide for certain restrictions on the transfer of equity shares, including granting power to the board in certain circumstances, to refuse to register or acknowledge a transfer of equity shares or other securities issued by us. Under the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 pertaining to NSE and BSE on which our equity shares are listed, in the event we have not effected the transfer of shares within 15 days or where we have failed to communicate to the transferee any valid objection to the transfer within the stipulated time period of 15 days, we are required to compensate the aggrieved party for the opportunity loss caused during the period of delay.

The NCLT was constituted with effect from June 1, 2016 and by virtue of Section 466 of the Companies Act, 2013, the Company Law Board was dissolved.

If a company without sufficient cause refuses to register a transfer of equity shares within a period of 30 days from the date on which the instrument of transfer or the intimation of transmission, as the case may be, is delivered to the Company, the transferee may within a period of 60 days of such refusal or where no intimation has been received from the Company, within 90 days of the delivery of the instrument of transfer or intimation of transmission, may appeal to NCLT. The NCLT may, in its discretion, issue an interim order suspending the voting rights attached to the relevant equity shares before completing its investigation of the alleged contravention. If there is any default in complying with the order of the NCLT under Section 58 of the Companies Act, 2013, the company shall be punishable with fine which shall not be less than ₹ 100,000 but which may extend to ₹ 500,000 and every officer of the company who is in default shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine which shall not be less than ₹ 100,000 but which may extend to ₹ 300,000, or with both.

In addition, the Indian Companies Act provides that the NCLT may direct a rectification of the register of members for a transfer of equity shares which is in contravention of SEBI regulations or any similar law, upon an application by the company, a participant, a depositary incorporated in India, an investor or SEBI.

Further, the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Fourth Amendment Regulations, 2018 mandated that transfer of securities would be carried out in dematerialized form only with effect from December 5, 2018.

Disclosure of Ownership Interest

Section 89 of the Companies Act, 2013 requires that beneficial owners of shares of companies who are not registered as holders of those shares must make a declaration to the company specifying the nature of his or her or its interest, particulars of the registered holder of such shares and such other particulars as may be prescribed. Failure by a person to comply with Section 89 will not affect the company’s obligation to register a transfer of shares or to pay any dividends to the registered holder of any shares in respect of which the declaration has not been made. For the purpose of this section beneficial interest in a share includes, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement or otherwise, the right or entitlement of a person alone or together with any other person to (i) exercise or cause to be exercised any or all of the rights attached to such share; or (ii) receive or participate in any dividend or other distribution in respect of such share.

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Any investor, who fails to comply with these requirements without any reasonable cause, shall be punishable with fine which may extend to ₹ 50,000 and if such failure continues, a further fine be extended up to ₹ 1,000 may be levied for each day after the first day during which the failure continues. While it is unclear whether Section 89 applies to holders of ADSs of the Company, investors who exchange ADSs for the underlying equity shares of the Company will be subject to the restrictions under Section 89. The ADS holders in addition is required to comply with the notifications and disclosures as per the deposit agreement between ADS holders, the Company and the depository.

On receipt of the declaration, the Company is required to file a return of such declaration in the prescribed form with the Registrar. If the Company fails to comply with the provisions of Section 89, then the Company and every defaulting officer may be punishable with fine which shall not be less than ₹ 500 but which may extend to ₹ 1,000 and if such failure continues, a further fine of ₹ 1000 may be levied for each day after the first day during which the failure continues.

Share Register and Record Dates

We maintain our register of members in both electronic and physical modes at our registered office and all transfers of shares should be notified to us at such address. Our register of members is open to inspection during business hours by shareholders without charge and by other persons upon payment of a fee as prescribed under the applicable law.

The register and index of beneficial owners maintained by a depositary under the Depositories Act, 1996 is deemed to be an index of members and register and index of debenture holders. We recognize as shareholders only those persons who appear on our register of members and we do not recognize any person holding any equity share or part thereof on trust, whether express, implied or constructive.

To determine which shareholders are entitled to specified shareholder rights, we may close the register of members. For the purpose of determining who our shareholders are, our register of members may be closed for periods not exceeding in aggregate 45 days in each year but not exceeding 30 days at any one time and we are required to ensure that there is a gap of at least 30 days between the two record dates. In order to determine our shareholders’ entitlement to dividends, it is our general practice to close the register of members for approximately 10 to 20 days before the annual general meeting. The date on which this period begins is the record date. Under the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 pertaining to NSE and BSE on which our equity shares are listed, we are required to give at least seven working days’ advance notice to the stock exchange, set a record date and/or close the register of members. The trading of our equity shares and the delivery of shares certificates may continue while the register of members is closed.

Annual Report

At least 21 clear days before an annual general meeting, we must circulate our annual report, which comprises of either a detailed or abridged version of our audited financial accounts, our directors’ report, our corporate governance report, and our auditor’s report, to the shareholders along with a notice convening the annual general meeting. In addition, we must furnish to the exchanges quarterly unaudited or audited results within 45 days after the end of each accounting quarter. We are required to furnish to the exchanges audited financial results for the entire financial year within 60 days of the end of the financial year. We are also required to send copies of our annual report to the NSE and BSE within 21 working days’ of it being approved and adopted at the AGM and to publish our financial results in at least one English language daily newspaper circulating in the whole or substantially the whole of India and also in a daily newspaper published in the language of the region where our registered office is situated. Further as per the SEBI Amendement Regulations, 2018 with respect to the annual reports for the financial year ending March 31, 2019 onwards, we will be required to send the Annual Report to the stock exchanges along with the notice of AGM not later than the day of commencement of dispatch to the shareholders. We are also required under the Indian Companies Act to make available upon the request of any shareholder our complete balance sheet and statement of profit and loss along with all the subsidiaries.

Under the Indian Companies Act, we must file with the Registrar of Companies our Annual report within 30 days of the date on which the balance sheet and statement of profit and loss were adopted at the annual general meeting and our annual return within 60 days of the conclusion of that meeting. Every company shall place a copy of the annual return on the website of the company, if any, and the web-link of such annual return shall be disclosed in the Board’s report.

Related Party Transactions

As per the Companies Act, 2013, all related party transactions shall require prior approval of the audit committee. The audit committee may grant omnibus approval for related party transactions proposed to be entered into by the Company subject to certain conditions. The audit committee shall review, at least on a quarterly basis, the details of related party transactions entered into by the Company pursuant to each of the omnibus approvals accorded by the audit committee. The audit committee shall lay down the criteria for granting omnibus approvals in line with the policy on related party transactions of the Company and such approval shall be applicable to transactions which are similar in nature. Prior approval of the shareholders by way of a resolution is required for all the related party transactions which are not in the ordinary course of business and which are not at arm’s length basis.

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Further, the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2017 effective as of May 7, 2018 provides that for transactions other than transactions referred to in section 188 of the Companies Act, 2013 and where an audit committee does not approve the transaction, the company shall make its recommendations to the Board. It further provides that in case any transaction involving an amount not exceeding ₹ 10 million is entered into by a director or officer of the company without obtaining the approval of the audit committee and it is not ratified by the audit committee within three months from the date of the transaction, such transaction shall be voidable at the option of the audit committee. If the transaction is with a related party to any director or is authorised by any other director, the director concerned shall indemnify the company against any loss incurred due to such transactions. Further, such prior approvals do not apply to transactions between a holding company and its wholly owned subsidiary whose accounts are consolidated with such holding company and placed before the shareholders at the general meeting. Disclosure of material related party transactions and transactions which are not at an arm’s length basis is required to be included in the annual report along with the justification for entering in to such contracts and arrangements.

Borrowing Powers

Our directors may raise, borrow or secure the payment of any sums of money for our purposes as they deem appropriate without the consent of shareholders in a general meeting, by way of special resolution, provided that, the aggregate of the monies to be borrowed and the principal amount outstanding in respect of monies raised, borrowed or secured by us does not exceed the aggregate of our paid up share capital plus free reserves. Under the Indian Companies Act, the payment and repayment of moneys borrowed may be secured in such manner and upon such terms and conditions in all respect as the Board may think fit, by resolution passed at a meeting of the Board and in particular, by the issue of bonds, debentures, debenture stock of the company either unsecured or secured by a mortgage or charge over all or any part of the property of the company (both present and future) including its uncalled capital for the time being, and debentures, debenture stock, bonds and other securities may be made assignable free from any equities between the company and the person to whom the same may be issued.

Corporate Social Responsibility

The Companies Act, 2013, read with the Rules made thereunder, requires companies which meet the requirements of certain thresholds of net worth, turnover or net profits to constitute a Corporate Social Responsibility (“CSR”) Committee and to spend at least 2% of average net profits for the immediately preceding fiscal years on areas of CSR In the event we are unable to spend the required amount, we will be required to disclose details of amounts spent and, in case of any shortfall in such spending, also state the reasons for the shortfall.

Issue of equity shares and Pre-emptive Rights

Subject to the provisions of the Indian Companies Act and our Articles of Association and to any special rights attaching to any of our equity shares, we may increase our share capital by the allotment or issue of new equity shares with preferred, deferred or other special rights or restrictions regarding dividends, voting, return of capital or other matters as we may from time to time determine by special resolution. We may issue preference shares that are redeemable or are liable to be redeemed at our option or the option of the holder in accordance with our Articles of Association.

Under the Indian Companies Act, new equity shares shall first be offered to existing shareholders in proportion to the amount they have paid up on their equity shares on the record date. The offer shall be made by written notice specifying:

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the right, exercisable by the shareholders of record, to renounce the equity shares offered in favor of any other person;

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the number of equity shares offered; and

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the period of the offer, which may not be less than 15 days and not exceeding 30 days from the date of the offer.

If the offer is not accepted, it is deemed to be declined, and thereafter, our Board is permitted to distribute equity shares not accepted by existing shareholders in the manner it deems beneficial for us in accordance with our Articles of Association. Holders of ADSs may not be able to participate in any such offer.

However, under the provisions of the Indian Companies Act, new equity shares may be offered to non-shareholders, if this has been approved by a special resolution and has complied with the applicable rules.

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Capitalization of Profits and Reserves

Our Articles of Association allow our directors, with the approval of our shareholders by an ordinary resolution, to capitalize any part of the amount standing to the credit of our reserve accounts or to the credit of our statement of profit and loss or otherwise available for distribution. Any sum which is capitalized shall be appropriated among our shareholders in the same proportion as if such sum had been distributed by way of dividend. This sum shall not be paid out in cash and shall be applied in the following manner:

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paying up any amount remaining unpaid on the shares held by our shareholders; or

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issuing to our shareholders, fully paid bonus equity shares (issued either at par or a premium).

Any issue of bonus equity shares would be subject to section 63 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the SEBI (Disclosure and Investor Protection) Guidelines, 2000, as amended, which provide that:

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no company shall, pending the conversion of convertible securities, issue any bonus equity shares unless a similar benefit is extended to the holders of such convertible securities through a reservation of equity shares in proportion to such conversion;

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the bonus issue shall be made out of free reserves built out of genuine profits or share premium collected in cash only;

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bonus equity shares cannot be issued unless all the partly paid up equity shares have been fully paid-up;

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the company has not defaulted in the payment of interest or principal in respect of fixed deposits and interest on existing debentures or principal on redemption of such debentures;

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a declaration of bonus equity shares in lieu of dividend cannot be made;

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the company shall have sufficient reason to believe that it has not defaulted in the payment of statutory dues of the employees such as contribution to provident fund, gratuity, bonus etc.;

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any reserves created by a revaluation of fixed assets shall not be capitalized;

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the articles of association of the company must contain provisions for the capitalization of reserves; and

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the bonus issue must be implemented within 15 days from the date of approval by the board of directors.

Purchase of own equity shares

A company may, in accordance with the Companies Act, 2013, the Rules made thereunder and the regulations issued by SEBI may buy-back its own shares out of its free reserves or securities premium account or the proceeds of any shares or other specified securities (other than proceeds of an earlier issue of the same kind of shares or same kind of other specified securities) subject to certain conditions, including:

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the buy-back must be authorized by the company’s Articles of Association;

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a special resolution authorizing the buy-back must be passed in a general meeting;

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the buy-back is limited to 25% or less of the company’s total paid up capital and free reserves in a financial year;

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the ratio of aggregate of secured and unsecured debts owed by the company after such buy-back is not more than twice the paid up capital and its free reserves;

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the shares or other specified securities for buy-back are fully paid-up;

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the buy-back of shares or other specified securities listed on any recognized stock exchange is in accordance with the SEBI (Buy-Back of Securities) Regulations, 1998, as amended;

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the buy-back in respect of shares or other specified securities other than listed shares or specified securities is in accordance with such rules as may be prescribed; and

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no offer of buy-back shall be made within a period of one year from the date of the closure of the preceding offer to buy back, if any.

The second condition mentioned above would not be applicable if the number of equity shares proposed to be bought back is 10% or less of the total paid up equity capital and free reserves and if such buy-back is authorized by the board of directors.

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Any equity shares which have been bought back by us must be extinguished within 7 days of the last date of completion of buy back. Further, we will not make a further issue of the same kind of shares or other specified securities including an allotment of new shares within a period of 6 months except by way of a bonus issue or in discharge of our existing obligations such as conversion of warrants, stock option schemes, sweat equity or conversion of preference shares or debentures into equity. A company is also prohibited from purchasing its own shares or specified securities through any subsidiary company including its own subsidiary companies or through any investment company or group of investment companies or in the event of non-compliance with certain other provisions of the Companies Act, 2013.

SEBI (Buy Back of Securities) Regulations, 1998 (‘SEBI Buyback Regulations’) governs the buy-back through open market purchase through the following methods:

Tender offer: Tender offer means offer by a company to buy-back its shares or other specified securities through a letter of offer from the holders of the shares or other specified securities of the company. A company may buy-back its shares or other specified securities from its existing security-holders on a proportionate basis in accordance with the provisions of Chapter III of the SEBI Buyback Regulations. However, 15% of the number of securities which the company proposes to buy back or number of securities entitled as per their shareholding, whichever is higher, shall be reserved for small shareholders. The promoter intending to offer their shares or other specified securities for buy-back shall be required to make specific disclosures such as quantum of shares proposed to be tendered, details of specified transactions as per the regulations etc. Other conditions in relation to filing of the offer document, adhering to the offer procedure, maintaining an escrow account, etc. shall also have to be complied with as per Chapter III of the SEBI Buyback Regulations.

Open market: The buyback of shares or other specified securities from the open market may be in one of the following methods:

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through stock exchange, and

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Book building process.

Specific conditions to be complied with, in relation to buyback through each of the above modes have been prescribed under the Chapter IV of the SEBI Buyback Regulations. The buy-back of the shares or other specified securities shall not be made from the promoters or persons in control of the company.

The SEBI Buyback Regulations were amended on March 6, 2017 through the SEBI (Payment of Fees and Mode of Payment) (Amendment) Regulations, 2017, Schedule IV in relation to schedule of fees i.e. the fee structure and the mode of payment in the event of submitting the offer document or copy of public announcement to SEBI.

ADS holders will be eligible to participate in a share buy-back in certain cases. An ADS holder may acquire equity shares by withdrawing them from the depositary facility and then selling those equity shares back to us in accordance with the provisions of applicable law as discussed above. ADS holders should note that equity shares withdrawn from the depositary facility may only be re-deposited into the depositary facility under certain limited circumstances as specified under the guidelines issued by the GoI and the RBI relating to a sponsored ADS facility and fungibililty of ADSs. See “- D. Exchange Controls.”

There can be no assurance that the equity shares offered by an ADS investor in any buy-back of equity shares by us will be accepted by us. The position regarding regulatory approvals required for ADS holders to participate in a buy-back is not clear. ADS investors are advised to consult their Indian legal advisers prior to participating in any buy-back by us, including in relation to any regulatory approvals and tax issues relating to the share buy-back.

Rights of Minority Shareholders

The Companies Act, 2013 provides mechanisms for the protection of the rights of the minority shareholder. Where the share capital of a company is divided into different classes of shares and there has been variation in the rights attached to the shares of any class, the holders of not less than 10% of the issued shares of that class, who did not vote in favor of a resolution for the variation, have the right to apply to the NCLT to have the variation cancelled and such variation shall not have any effect unless confirmed by the NCLT.

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Further, under the Companies Act, 2013, the shareholders holding not less than 10% of the issued share capital or shareholders representing not less than 10% of the total number of members or 100 members, whichever is lesser, provided that they have paid all calls and other sums due on their shares, have the right to apply to the NCLT for an order to bring an end to the matter complained of, on the following grounds of oppression or mismanagement:

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that the company’s affairs have been or are being conducted in a manner prejudicial to public interest or in a manner prejudicial or oppressive to any member or members or in a manner prejudicial to the interests of the company; or

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that a material change, not being a change brought about by, or in the interests of, any creditors, including debenture holders or any class of shareholders of the company, has taken place in the management or control of the company, whether by an alteration in its board of directors or management or in the ownership of the company’s shares and by reason of such change, it is likely that the affairs of the company will be conducted in a manner prejudicial to public interest or in a manner prejudicial to the interests of the company.

Provisions on Squeeze Out of Minority Shareholders

In the event of an acquirer, or a person acting in concert with such acquirer, becoming registered holder of 90% or more of the issued equity share capital of a company, or in the event of any person or group of persons becoming 90% majority or holding 90% of the issued equity share capital of a company by virtue of an amalgamation, share exchange, conversion of securities or for any other reason, such acquirer, person or group of persons, as the case may be, shall notify the Company of their intention to buy the remaining equity shares.

The acquirer, person or group of persons as mentioned above shall offer to the minority shareholders of the company for buying the equity shares held by such shareholders at a price determined on the basis of valuation by a registered valuer in accordance with such rules as may be prescribed.

Without prejudice to the aforesaid provisions, the minority shareholders of the company may offer to the majority shareholders to purchase the minority equity shareholding of the company at the price determined in accordance with such rules as may be prescribed.

Book-Entry Shares and Liquidity

Our equity shares are compulsorily traded in book-entry form and are available for trading under both depositary systems in India, namely, the National Securities Depository Limited and Central Depository Services (India) Limited. The International Securities Identification Number (ISIN) for our equity shares is INE 205A01025.

Liquidation Rights

According to the Indian Companies Act and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, certain payments have preference over payments to be made to equity shareholders. These payments having preference include payments to be made by the company to its employees, taxes, payments to secured and unsecured lenders and payments to holders of any shares entitled by their terms to preferential repayment over the equity shares. In the event of our winding-up, the holders of the equity shares are entitled to be repaid the amounts of paid up capital or credited as paid upon those equity shares after payments have been made by the company as set out above. Subject to such payments having been made by the company, any surplus assets are paid to holders of equity shares in proportion to their shareholdings.

Takeover Code and SEBI Regulations

Under the SEBI (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011 (“Takeover Code”) last amended on June 1, 2018, the acquisition of shares or voting rights or control which entitles the acquirer to exercise 25% or more of the voting rights in or control over the target company triggers a requirement for the acquirer to make an open offer at an offer price determined as per the provisions of the Takeover Code. The acquirer is required to make a public announcement for an open offer on the date on which it is has agreed to acquire such shares or voting rights or control. Such open offer shall only be for such number of shares as is required to adhere to the maximum permitted non-public shareholding.

Upon acquisition of shares or voting rights or control in the target company such that the aggregate share-holding of the acquirer (meaning a person who directly or indirectly, acquires or agrees to acquire shares or voting rights or control in a target company either by himself or together with persons acting in concert) is 5% or more of the shares or voting rights or control of the target company, the acquirer is required to, within two working days of such acquisition of shares or voting rights or receipt of intimation of allotment of shares, disclose their aggregate shareholding and voting rights in the target company to the target company and to the stock exchanges in which the shares of the target company are listed.

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Further, an acquirer, who, together with persons acting in concert with him, holds shares or voting rights entitling them to 5% or more of the shares or voting rights in a target company must disclose every sale or acquisition of shares representing 2% or more of the shares or voting rights of the target company to the target company and to the stock exchanges in which the shares of the target company are listed within 2 (two) working days of such acquisition or sale or receipt of intimation of allotment of such shares. This disclosure is required, in case of a sale, even if such sale results in the shareholding of the acquirer falling below 5%. Every person, who together with persons acting in concert with him, holds shares or voting rights entitling him to exercise 25% or more of the voting rights in a target company, has to disclose to the company and to stock exchanges, their aggregate shareholding and voting rights as of March 31, in such target company within 7 (seven) working days from the end of the financial year of that target company.

The acquisition of shares or voting rights which entitles the acquirer to exercise 25.0% or more of the voting rights in or control over the target company triggers a requirement for the acquirer to make an open offer to acquire at least 26.0% of the total shares of the target company at an offer price determined as per the provisions of the Takeover Code. The acquirer is required to make a public announcement for an open offer on the date on which it is agreed to acquire such shares or voting rights. Such open offer shall only be for such number of shares as is required to adhere to the maximum permitted non-public shareholding.

Where the public shareholding in the target company is reduced to a level below the limit specified in rule 19(2)(b) and / or rule 19A of the Securities Contract (Regulation) Rules, 1957, the target company is required to adopt any of the methods prescribed in the SEBI circular CIR/CFD/CMD/14/2015 dated November 30, 2015 so as to comply with the minimum public shareholding requirements in the manner specified by SEBI. Further, the Takeover Code also provides that an acquirer can make an offer for delisting the Company if such acquirer declares his intention to do so at the time of making the public announcement of an open offer. In other instances, the acquirer will not be eligible to make voluntary delisting offer under the SEBI (Delisting of Equity Shares) Regulations 2009, unless 12 months have elapsed from the date of the completion of offer period.

Since we are a listed company in India, the provisions of the Takeover Code will apply to us and to any person acquiring equity shares or voting rights in our Company. The ADSs entitle ADS holders to exercise voting rights in respect of the Deposited Equity Shares (as described in the section titled “Voting Rights of Deposited Equity Shares Represented by ADSs”). Accordingly, the requirement to make an open offer of at least 26% of the shares of a company to the existing shareholders of the company would be triggered by an ADS holder where the shares that underlie the holder’s ADSs represent 25% or more of the shares or voting rights of the company. We entered into uniform listing agreements with BSE and NSE which were superseded by SEBI (LODR) Regulation 2015, pursuant to which we must report to the stock exchanges any disclosures made to the company pursuant to the Takeover Code.

The Takeover Code was also amended on March 6, 2017 by SEBI (Payment of Fees and Mode of Payment) (Amendment) Regulations, 2017 in the fee structure and the mode of payment in the event of filing the necessary disclosure by the acquirer under the Regulation 10 sub-regulation 7.

SEBI through a notification dated May 31, 2018 amended various regulations such as the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, the Takeover Code, the SEBI Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements Regulations, 2009 and the SEBI (Delisting of Equity Shares) (Amendment) Regulations, 2018 granting relaxation or exemptions to listed companies whose resolution plan is approved under section 31 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016. The said amendments are effective from June 1, 2018.

Voting Rights of Deposited Equity Shares Represented by ADSs

Under Indian law, voting in relation to the equity shares is by show of hands unless a poll is demanded by a member or members present in person or by proxy holding at least 10% of the total shares entitled to vote on the resolution or by those holding shares with an aggregate paid up capital of at least ₹ 500,000. A proxy (other than a body corporate represented by an authorized representative) may not vote except on a poll. As soon as practicable after receipt of notice of any general meetings or solicitation of consents or proxies of holders of shares or other deposited securities, our Depositary shall fix a record date for determining the holders entitled to give instructions for the exercise of voting rights. The Depositary shall then mail to the holders of ADSs a notice stating (i) such information as is contained in such notice of meeting and any solicitation materials, (ii) that each holder on the record date set by the Depositary will be entitled to instruct the Depositary as to the exercise of the voting rights, if any pertaining to the deposited securities represented by the ADSs evidenced by such holder’s ADRs, and (iii) the manner in which such instruction may be given, including instructions to give discretionary proxy to a person designated by us.

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On receipt of the aforesaid notice from the Depositary, our ADS holders may instruct the Depositary on how to exercise the voting rights for the shares that underlie their ADSs. For such instructions to be valid, the Depositary must receive them on or before a specified date. The Depositary will try, as far as is practical, and subject to the provisions of Indian law and our Memorandum of Association and our Articles of Association, to vote or to have its agents vote in relation to the shares or other deposited securities as per our ADS holders’ instructions. The Depositary will only vote or attempt to vote as per an ADS holder’s instructions. The Depositary will not itself exercise any voting discretion. Neither the Depositary nor its agents are responsible for any failure to carry out any voting instructions, for the manner in which any vote is cast, or for the effect of any vote. There is no guarantee that our shareholders will receive voting materials in time to instruct the Depositary to vote and it is possible that ADS holders, or persons who hold their ADSs through brokers, dealers or other third parties, will not have the opportunity to exercise a right to vote.

Insider Trading Regulations

The SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015 (the “SEBI Insider Trading Regulations”) replaced the previous SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations. Key features of the SEBI Insider Trading Regulations inter alia are as follows:

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Key definitions:

“Insider” means any person who is a connected person or in possession of or having access to unpublished price sensitive information;

“Connected Person” is an exhaustive definition and includes any person who has a contractual, fiduciary or employment relationship or family relatives that allows such person directly or indirectly access to unpublished price sensitive information;

“Immediate Relatives” means a spouse of a person, and includes parent, sibling, and child of such person or of the spouse, any of whom is either dependent financially on such person, or consults such person in taking decisions relating to trading in securities;

“unpublished price sensitive information (“UPSI”)” means any information, relating to a company or its securities, directly or indirectly, that is not generally available which upon becoming generally available, is likely to materially affect the price of the securities and shall, ordinarily including but not restricted to, information relating to financial results, dividend, changes in capital structure, among others.;

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the SEBI Insider Trading Regulations provides for a framework for governing listed companies and its promoters, key managerial personnel, etc. when in possession of UPSI or deemed to be in possession of UPSI;

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It also provides restrictions on communications and trading by Insiders and disclosures tradings done by Insiders;

Under the SEBI Insider Trading Regulations, a listed company is required to formulate a stated framework and policy for the fair disclosure of events and occurrences that could impact the price of its securities. This policy is required to be framed on principles such as the equality of access to information, publication of policies such as those on dividends, inorganic growth pursuits, calls on meetings with analysts and the publication of transcripts of such calls and meetings.

Comparison of Shareholders’ Rights

We are incorporated under the laws of India. The following discussion summarizes certain material differences between the rights of holders of our equity shares and the rights of holders of the common stock of a typical corporation incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware which result from differences in governing documents and the laws of India and Delaware. The rights of holders of our ADSs differ in certain respects from those of holders of our equity shares.

This discussion does not purport to be a complete statement of the rights of holders of our equity shares under applicable law in India and our amended and restated Memorandum and Articles of Association or the rights of holders of the common stock of a typical corporation under applicable Delaware law and a typical certificate of incorporation and by laws.

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Delaware Law		Indian Law

*Annual and Special Meetings of Shareholders*

Shareholders of a Delaware corporation generally do not have the right to call meetings of shareholders unless that right is granted in the certificate of incorporation or by-laws. However, if a corporation fails to hold its annual meeting within a period of 30 days after the date designated for the annual meeting, or if no date has been designated for the annual meeting, or if no date has been designated for a period of 13 months after its last annual meeting, the Delaware Court of Chancery may order a meeting to be held upon the application of a shareholder.		While shareholders of a company do not have any right to call for an annual general meeting, shareholders holding one-tenth of the paid-up share capital of the company have a right to request an extraordinary general meeting. However, in the event the company defaults in holding an annual general meeting within 15 months from the date of its last annual general meeting or within 6 months from the end of financial year, whichever is higher, the GoI may order a meeting to be held upon the application of any shareholder.

*Quorum Requirements for Meetings of Shareholders*

A Delaware corporation’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws can specify the number of shares which constitute the quorum required to conduct business at a meeting, provided that in no event shall a quorum consist of less than one-third of the shares entitled to vote at a meeting, except that, where a separate vote by a class or series or classes or series is required, a quorum shall consist of no less than one-third of the shares of such class or series or classes or series.		Our Articles of Association specify that the quorum for the general meeting shall be as provided in the Companies Act, 2013. According to the Indian Companies Act, quorum for a general meeting is at least 30 shareholders personally present if number of members as on date of meeting is exceeding 5,000 to vote and in such instances, the Indian Companies Act supersedes the Articles of Association.

*Board of Directors*

A typical certificate of incorporation and bylaws would provide that the number of directors on the board of directors will be fixed from time to time by a vote of the majority of the authorized directors. Under Delaware law, a board of directors can be divided into classes and cumulative voting in the election of directors is only permitted if expressly authorized in a corporation’s certificate of incorporation.		Our Articles of Association provide that unless otherwise determined by the shareholders at a general meeting, the number of directors shall not be less than three or more than 15. The Company may appoint more than 15 directors by seeking the approval of its members by way of a special resolution. Under Indian law, the appointment and removal of directors (other than additional directors) is required to be approved by the shareholders. There is no concept under Indian law as to division of the board of directors into different classes or cumulative voting.

*Removal of Directors*

Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, a director of a corporation may be removed with the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares then entitled to vote at an election of directors, unless the certificate of incorporation provides otherwise.		Under Indian law, a director of a company, other than a director appointed by the GoI, may be removed by an approval of the members by way of an ordinary resolution, provided that a special notice of the resolution to remove the director is given in accordance with the provisions of the Indian Companies Act. Under our Articles of Association, any director who has been appointed by any persons pursuant to the provisions of an agreement with us may be removed at any time by such person.

*Filling Vacancies on the Board of Directors*

A typical certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that, subject to the rights of the holders of any preferred stock, any vacancy, whether arising through death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal, an increase in the number of directors or any other reason, may be filled by a majority vote of the remaining directors, even if such directors remaining in office constitute less than a quorum, or by the sole remaining director. Any newly elected director usually holds office for the remainder of the full term expiring at the annual meeting of stockholders at which the term of the class of directors to which the newly elected director has been elected expires.		The board of directors has the power to fill a vacancy on the board and any director so appointed shall hold office only so long as the vacating director would have held such office if no vacancy had occurred.

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Delaware Law		Indian Law

*Interested Director Transactions*

Interested director transactions are not voidable if (i) the material facts as to the interested director’s relationship or interests are disclosed or are known to the board of directors and the board in good faith authorizes the transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of the disinterested directors, (ii) the material facts are disclosed or are known to the shareholders entitled to vote on such transaction and the transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of the majority of shares entitled to vote on the matter or (iii) the transaction is fair as to the corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified by the board of directors, a committee or the shareholders.		Under Indian law, contracts or arrangements in which one or more directors of an Indian company has an interest are not void or voidable because of such interest, provided that certain conditions, such as obtaining the required approval of the board of directors and disclosing the nature of the interest to the board of directors, are satisfied. Subject to a few exceptions, for an interested director transaction not to be voided, (a) the interested director is required to disclose the nature of his concern or interest at a meeting of the board of directors, whether directly or indirectly, is concerned or interested including the Director who a Promoter, Manager, Chief Executive Officer of anybody corporate; (b) the board of directors is required to grant its consent to the contract or arrangement; (c) the interested director is not permitted to take part in the discussion of, or vote on, the contract or arrangement; and (d) the approval of the members is required by way of resolution. An interested director is not to be counted for the purposes of quorum at the time of any such discussion or vote and if the interested director does vote, the vote shall be void. The contravention of relevant provisions is punishable with fine. Nothing in this section shall apply to any contract or arrangement entered into or to be entered into between two companies or between one or more companies and one or more bodies corporate where any of the directors of the one company or body corporate or two or more of them together holds or hold not more than two percent of the paid-up share capital in the other company or the body corporate.

*Cumulative Voting*

Delaware law does not require that a Delaware corporation provide for cumulative voting. However, the certificate of incorporation of a Delaware corporation may provide that shareholders of any class or classes or of any series may vote cumulatively either at all elections or at elections under specified circumstances.		There is no concept of cumulative voting under Indian law.

*Shareholder Action Without a Meeting*

Unless otherwise specified in a Delaware corporation’s certificate of incorporation, any action required or permitted to be taken by shareholders at an annual or special meeting may be taken by shareholders without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if consents, in writing, setting forth the action, are signed by shareholders with not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize the action at a meeting. All consents must be dated. No consent is effective unless, within 60 days of the earliest dated consent delivered to the corporation, written consents signed by a sufficient number of holders to take the action are delivered to the corporation.		There is no concept of shareholder action without a meeting under Indian law.

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Delaware Law		Indian Law

*Business Combinations*

With certain exceptions, a merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all the assets of a Delaware corporation must be approved by the board of directors and a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon.		The sale, lease or disposal of all or substantially all of the assets of an Indian company must be approved by the board of directors and shareholders holding a majority of the voting share capital of the company.

		Under the Indian Companies Act, the merger of two companies is required to be approved by a Court or NCLT of competent jurisdiction and by a three-fourths majority of each class of shareholders and creditors of the company present and voting at the meetings held to approve the merger.

*Interested Stockholders*

The Delaware General Corporation Law contains a business combination statute applicable to Delaware public corporations whereby, unless the corporation has specifically elected not to be governed by such statute by amendment to its certificate of incorporation, it is prohibited from engaging in certain business combinations with an “interested shareholder” for three years following the date on which such person becomes an interested shareholder. An interested shareholder generally is one which owns or owned 15.0% or more of the target’s outstanding voting shares within the past three years. This has the effect of limiting the ability of a potential acquirer to make a two-tiered bid for the target in which all shareholders would not be treated equally. The statute does not apply if, among other things, prior to the date on which such shareholder becomes an interested shareholder, the board of directors approves either the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the person becoming an interested shareholder. This encourages any potential acquirer of a Delaware public corporation to negotiate the terms of any acquisition transaction with the target’s board of directors.		Indian law does not prohibit corporate transactions but does require disclosure of related party transactions in the financial statements of the company. Under applicable accounting standards in India, during the time that a related party transaction exists, a company is required to disclose the name of the related parties, describe the relationship between the parties, describe the nature of the transactions and disclose the volume of the transactions either as an amount or as an appropriate proportion, the amounts or appropriate proportions of outstanding items pertaining to related parties at the balance sheet date and provisions for doubtful debts due from such parties at that date and the amounts written off or written back in the period in respect of debts due from or to related parties.

		Transactions undertaken between a company and a person having a substantial interest in the company would qualify as a related party transaction and would be required to be disclosed under applicable accounting standards in India. Under such accounting standards, a party is considered to have a substantial interest in a company if that party owns, directly or indirectly, 20.0% or more of the voting power in the company.

223


Delaware Law		Indian Law

*Limitations on Personal Liability of Directors*

A Delaware corporation may include in its certificate of incorporation provisions limiting the personal liability of its directors to the corporation or its shareholders for monetary damages for many types of breach of fiduciary duty. However, these provisions may not limit liability for any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty, acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, the authorization of unlawful dividends, or unlawful share purchase or redemption, or any transaction from which a director derived an improper personal benefit. Moreover, these provisions would not be likely to bar claims arising under US federal securities laws.		Generally, Indian law provides that directors are not personally liable in respect of contracts of the company. However, where a director acts without the approval or ratification of the company, such director may be personally liable. Directors are also personally liable for breach of trust or misfeasance, both civilly and in some cases criminally. The Indian Companies Act contains certain provisions making directors personally liable to discharge certain monetary obligations in their capacity as directors, such as the non-refund of share application monies or excess application monies within the time limit stipulated by the Indian Companies Act. Similarly, the Indian Companies Act provides for civil liability of directors for misstatements in a prospectus issued by the company that has been signed by the directors, including the obligation to pay compensation to any persons subscribing to the shares of the company on the faith of statements made in the prospectus. Directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies are available in India. However, the permissible coverage under such policies is subject to the same limitations as on the ability of the company to indemnify its directors as described under “- Indemnification of Directors and Officers.”

*Indemnification of Directors and Officers*

A Delaware corporation may indemnify a director or officer of the corporation against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred in defense of an action, suit or proceeding by reason of his or her position if (i) the director or officer acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and (ii) with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, the director or officer had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful.		Under Indian law, subject to specified exceptions, any provision, whether contained in the Articles of Association of a company or in any agreement, exempting or indemnifying any director, officer or auditor of the company against any liability in respect of any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust which would by law otherwise attach to such director, officer or auditor, shall be void. However, pursuant to the exceptions permitted under Indian law, our Articles of Association provide for indemnification of any officer or agent against any liability incurred by such person in successfully defending any proceeding, whether civil or criminal, in which such person is acquitted in whole or in part on the grounds that such person had acted honestly and reasonably, or in connection with an application made by an officer or agent to the High Court of the relevant state for relief for reason that he or she has a reason to apprehend that any proceeding may be brought against him in respect of any negligence, default, breach of duty, misfeasance or breach of trust in which relief has been granted by such High Court.

*Appraisal Rights*

A shareholder of a Delaware corporation participating in certain major corporate transactions may, under certain circumstances, be entitled to appraisal rights pursuant to which the shareholder may receive cash in the amount of the fair value of the shares held by that shareholder (as determined by a Court) in lieu of the consideration the shareholder would otherwise receive in the transaction.		There is no concept of appraisal rights under Indian law.

224


Delaware Law		Indian Law

*Shareholder Suits*

Class actions and derivative actions generally are available to the shareholders of a Delaware corporation for, among other things, breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste and actions not taken in accordance with applicable law. In such actions, the court has discretion to permit the winning party to recover attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with such action.		Under the Indian Companies Act, shareholders holding not less than one tenth of the issued share capital, shareholders representing not less than one tenth of the total number of members or one hundred members, provided that they have paid all calls and other sums due on their shares, have the right to request the NCLT, a statutory body, for an order or injunction as to the taking or not taking of an action by the company on the following grounds of oppression or mismanagement: (a) that the company’s affairs are being conducted in a manner prejudicial to public interest, in a manner oppressive to any member or members or in a manner prejudicial to the interests of the company; and (b) that a material change has taken place in the management or control of the company, whether by a change in the board of directors or management or in the ownership of the company’s shares, and by reason of such change it is likely that the affairs of the company will be conducted in a manner prejudicial to public interest or in a manner prejudicial to the interests of the company.

*Inspection of Books and Records*

All shareholders of a Delaware corporation have the right, upon written demand under oath stating the purpose thereof, to inspect or obtain copies of the corporation’s shares ledger and its other books and records for any proper purpose.		Pursuant to our Articles of Association, our Board of directors has the authority to determine whether and to what extent and at what times and places and under what conditions or regulations our books are open to the inspection of the shareholders. Further, no shareholder of the company has the right to inspect any record of the company except as conferred under law or authorized by the board of directors or by the shareholders in a general meeting. The books containing the minutes of the proceedings of any general meetings of the shareholders are required to be kept at the registered office of the company and such materials are to be opened for inspection by any shareholder, without charge, subject to reasonable restrictions which may be imposed by a company’s articles or the general meeting of the shareholders. If an inspection is refused, the company and every officer of the company in default will be punishable with a fine. Under Indian law, the audited financial statements for the relevant financial year, the directors’ report and the auditors’ report are required to be provided to the shareholders before the annual general meeting.

*Amendment to Charter*

Amendments to the certificate of incorporation of a Delaware corporation require the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon or such greater vote as is provided for in the certificate of incorporation; a provision in the certificate of incorporation requiring the vote of a greater number or proportion of the directors or of the holders of any class of shares than is required by Delaware corporate law may not be amended, altered or repealed except by such greater vote.		Under Indian Law, subject to certain specified amendments that require the additional approval of the central government, a company may make amendments to its articles with the approval of shareholders holding not less than 75.0% of the shares of the company.

225


Delaware Law		Indian Law

*Distributions and Dividends; Repurchases and Redemptions*

Delaware law permits a corporation to declare and pay dividends out of statutory surplus or, if there is no surplus, out of net profits for fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or for the preceding fiscal year as long as the amount of capital of the corporation following the declaration and payment of the dividend is not less than the aggregate amount of the capital represented by the issued and outstanding stock of all classes having a preference upon the distribution of assets.		Under Indian law, if the profits for a year are insufficient, the dividend for that year may be declared out of the accumulated profits earned in previous years and transferred to reserves, subject to the following conditions: (i) the rate of dividend declared shall not exceed the average of the rates at which dividend was declared by it in the 3 years immediately preceding that year.

Under Delaware law, any corporation may purchase, redeem, receive, take or otherwise acquire, own and hold, sell, lend, exchange, transfer or otherwise dispose of, pledge, use and otherwise deal in and with its own shares, except that generally it may not purchase or redeem those shares if the capital of the corporation is impaired at the time or would become impaired as a result of the redemption. A corporation may, however, purchase or redeem capital shares that are entitled upon any distribution of its assets, whether by dividend or in liquidation, to a preference over another class or series of its shares if the shares will be retired upon their acquisition and the capital of the corporation is reduced.		(ii) the total amount to be drawn from the accumulated profits from previous years and transferred to the reserves may not exceed an amount equivalent to one tenth of the paid-up capital and free reserves (iii) the amount so drawn shall first be utilized to set off the losses incurred in the financial year in which dividend is declared before any dividend in respect of the equity shares is declared. (iv) the balance of reserves after such withdrawal shall not fall below fifteen percent of its paid up share capital as appears in the latest audited financial statement.

		Shareholders have a right to claim a dividend, after such dividend has been declared by the company at a general meeting. Shareholders also have a right to claim the interim dividends, which may be declared only pursuant to a resolution of the company’s board of directors provided that in the event the company has incurred loss during the current financial year up to the end of the quarter immediately preceding the date of declaration of an interim dividend, then such interim dividend shall not be declared at a rate higher than the average dividends declared by the company during the immediately preceding 3 financial years. Dividends may be paid in cash or by cheque or warrant or in any electronic mode to the shareholder. Where a dividend has been declared by a company but has not been paid within 30 days from the date of declaration to any shareholder entitled to the payment of such dividend, a penalty can be imposed on a director who is knowingly a party to such default.

		According to the Indian Companies Act, a company is empowered to purchase its own shares or other specified securities out of its free reserves, or the securities premium account or the proceeds of any shares or other specified securities (other than the kind of shares or other specified securities proposed to be bought back), subject to certain conditions including: (a) the buy-back must be authorized by the articles of association of the company; (b) a resolution must be passed by shareholders holding not less than 75.0% of the outstanding shares in the general meeting of the company authorizing the buy-back; (c) the buy-back is limited to 25.0% of the total paid up capital and free reserves; (d) the ratio of debt owed by the company must not be more than twice the capital and free reserves after such buy-back; and (e) the buy-back must be in accordance with the SEBI (Buy-Back of Securities) Regulations, 1998.

		Conditions (a) and (b) mentioned above would not be applicable if the buy-back is for less than 10.0% of the total paid-up equity capital and free reserves of the company and such buy-back has been authorized by the Board of directors of the company. Further, a company buying back its securities is not permitted to buy-back any additional securities for a period of 1 year after the buyback or to issue any securities of the same kind for a period of 6 months.

		A company is also prohibited from purchasing its own shares or specified securities directly or indirectly.

226

Comparison of Corporate Governance Standards

The listing of our ADSs on the NYSE and our equity shares on the NSE and BSE cause us to be subject to NYSE listing standards and Indian corporate governance requirements set out SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015.

The NYSE listing standards applicable to us, as a foreign private issuer, are considerably different from those applicable to companies incorporated in the United States. Under the NYSE rules, we need only (i) establish an independent audit committee that has specified responsibilities as described in the following table; (ii) provide prompt certification by our chief executive officer of any material non-compliance with any corporate governance rules of the NYSE; (iii) provide periodic (annual and interim) written affirmations to the NYSE with respect to our corporate governance practices; and (iv) provide a brief description of significant differences between our corporate governance practices and those followed by US companies.

The corporate governance requirements which apply to us as a listed company on the NSE and BSE are contained in Regulation 10 to 27 of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 that we have entered into with the NSE and BSE.

The following table summarizes certain material differences in the corporate governance standards applicable to us under the listing agreements with the NSE and BSE which is superseded by SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 as amended and the corporate governance standards for a NYSE-listed company, both to a typical US domestic issuer and the requirements that would be different for us as a foreign private issuer, SEBI, in its meeting held on March 28, 2018 approved various recommendations of the Kotak Committee report on corporate governance. Moreover, SEBI through notifications dated May 9, 2018 and May 10, 2018 respectively notified the timelines for implementing these recommendations. These regulations may be called SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) (Amendment) Regulations, 2018.

227


Standard for NYSE-Listed Companies		SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015

*Director Independence*

A majority of the board must consist of independent directors. Independence is defined by various criteria including the absence of a material relationship between the director and the listed company. For example, directors who are employees, are immediate family of an executive officer of the company or receive over $ 120,000 per year in direct compensation from the listed company are not independent. Directors who are employees of or otherwise affiliated through immediate family with the listed company’s independent auditor are also not independent. Determinations of independence were made by the board. The non-management directors must meet at regularly scheduled executive sessions without management. (The NYSE requirements for a board consisting of independent directors and non-management directors meeting at regularly scheduled executive sessions do not apply to us as a foreign private issuer.)		Regulation 17(1) requires that board of directors have an optimum combination of executive and non-executive directors with at least one woman director. Provided that the Board of the top 500 listed entities shall have at least one independent woman director by April 1, 2019 and the Board of the top 1,000 listed entities shall have at least one independent woman director by April 1, 2020; The top 500 and 1,000 listed entities shall be determined on the basis of market capitalisation, at the end of the immediate previous financial year. If the Chairman of the board of directors is an executive director, at least 50.0% of the board of directors should comprise of independent directors. If the Chairman of the board of directors is a non-executive director, then at least one third of the board should comprise of independent directors, provided that where the non-executive Chairman is a promoter of the company or is related to any promoter or person occupying a management position at the board of directors level or at one level below that, at least 50.0% of the board of directors should comprise of independent directors. The Board of the top 1,000 listed entities (with effect from April 1, 2019) and the top 2,000 listed entities (with effect from April 1, 2020) shall comprise of not less than six directors. The top 1,000 and 2,000 listed entities shall be determined on the basis of market capitalization at the end of the immediate previous financial year. No listed entity shall appoint a person or continue the directorship of any person as a non-executive director who has attained the age of 75 years unless a special resolution is passed to that effect, in which case the explanatory statement annexed to the notice for such motion shall indicate the justification for appointing such a person. With effect from April 1, 2020, the top 500 listed entities shall ensure that the Chairperson of the board of such listed entity shall (a) be a non-executive director; (b) not be related to the Managing Director or the Chief Executive Officer as per the definition of the term “relative” defined under the Companies Act, 2013; Regulation 16(1)(b) define an ‘independent director’ to mean a non-executive, other than a nominee director of a listed entity (i) who, in the opinion of the board, is a person of integrity and possesses relevant expertise and experience; (ii) who is or was not a promoter of the company or its holding, subsidiary or associate company or member of the promoter group of the listed entity effective October 1, 2018; (iii) who is not related to promoters or directors in the company, its holding, subsidiary or associate company;

228


Standard for NYSE-Listed Companies		SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015

		(iv) who, apart from receiving director’s remuneration, has or had no material pecuniary relationship with the company, its holding, subsidiary or associate company, or their promoters, or directors, during the two immediately preceding financial years or during the current financial year; (v) none of whose relatives has or had pecuniary relationship or transaction with the company, its holding, subsidiary or associate company, or their promoters, or directors, amounting to 2% or more of its gross turnover or total income or ₹ 5,000,000 or such higher amount as may be prescribed, whichever is lower, during the two immediately preceding financial years or during the current financial year; (vi) who, neither himself nor any of his relatives (A) holds or has held the position of a key managerial personnel or is or has been employee of the company or its holding, subsidiary or associate company in any of the three financial years immediately preceding the financial year in which he is proposed to be appointed; (B) is or has been an employee or proprietor or a partner, in any of the three financial years immediately preceding the financial year in which he is proposed to be appointed, of —(1) a firm of auditors or company secretaries in practice or cost auditors of the company or its holding, subsidiary or associate company; or (2) any legal or a consulting firm that has or had any transaction with the company, its holding, subsidiary or associate company amounting to ten per cent or more of the gross turnover of such firm. (C) holds together with his relatives 2% or more of the total voting power of the company; or

		(D) is a Chief Executive or director, by whatever name called, of any non-profit organization that receives 25% or more of its receipts or corpus from the company, any of its promoters, directors or its holding, subsidiary or associate company or that holds 2% or more of the total voting power of the company; (E) is a material supplier, service provider or customer or a lessor or lessee of the company; (vii) who is not less than 21 years of age; (viii) who is not a non-independent director of another company on the board of which any non-independent director of the listed entity is an independent director effective October 1, 2018.

229


Standard for NYSE-Listed Companies		SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015

*Audit Committee*

The audit committee must (i) be comprised entirely of independent directors; (ii) be directly responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of any registered public accounting firm engaged (including resolution of disagreements between management and the auditor regarding financial reporting) for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or performing other audit, review or attest services for the listed issuer, and each such registered public accounting firm must report directly to the audit committee; (iii) establish procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints with respect to accounting and auditing issues; (iv) establish procedures for the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of the listed issuer of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters; (v) be authorized to engage independent counsel and other advisers it deems necessary to perform its duties; and (vi) be given sufficient funding by the Board of directors to compensate the independent auditors and other advisors as well as for the payment of ordinary administrative expenses incurred by the committee that are necessary or appropriate in carrying out its duties.		Regulation 18(3) of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 read with Part C of Schedule II require that the role of the audit committee should include the following: • oversight the company’s financial reporting process and the disclosure of its financial information to ensure that the financial statement is correct, sufficient and credible. • recommendation for appointment, remuneration and terms of appointment of the auditors and approval of payment to statutory auditors for any other services rendered by the statutory auditors. • review with management the annual financial statements and auditor’s report thereon, before submission to the board of directors for approval, focusing primarily on matters required to be included in the Director’s Responsibility Statement in terms of clause (c) of sub-section (3) of Section 134 of the Act, 2013, any changes in accounting policies and practices and reasons for the same, any major accounting entries based on exercise of judgment by management, any qualifications in the draft audit report, any significant adjustments arising out of the audit, the going concern assumption, compliance with accounting standards, compliance with stock exchange and legal requirements concerning financial statements and any related party transactions, modified opinion(s) in the draft audit report. • Review with the management, the quarterly financial statements before submission to the board for approval

		• To review with management the statement of uses or application of funds raised through an issue (public issue, rights issue, preferential issue, etc.), the statement of funds utilized for purposes other than those stated in the offer document / prospectus / notice and the report submitted by the monitoring agency monitoring the utilization of proceeds of a public or rights issue, and making appropriate recommendations to the board to take up steps in this matter • reviewing and monitoring the auditor‘s independence and performance, and effectiveness of audit process; • approval or any subsequent modification of transactions of the listed entity with related parties; • scrutiny of inter-corporate loans and investments; • valuation of undertakings or assets of the listed entity, wherever it is necessary; • evaluation of internal financial controls and risk management systems • review with management the performance of statutory and internal auditors, and the adequacy of internal control systems.

230


Standard for NYSE-Listed Companies		SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015

		• review the adequacy of the internal audit function, including the structure of the internal audit department, staffing and seniority of the official heading the department, reporting structure coverage and frequency of internal audit.

		• To discuss with internal auditors any significant findings and follow-up thereon.

		• To review the findings of any internal investigations by the internal auditors into matters where there is suspected fraud or irregularity or a failure of internal control systems of a material nature and report the matter to the board.

		• To discuss with statutory auditors before the audit commences, the nature and scope of the audit as well as to conduct post-audit discussions to ascertain any area of concern.

		• To examine the reasons for substantial defaults in payment to depositors, debenture holders, shareholders (in case of non-payment of declared dividends) and creditors.

		• To review the functioning of whistle blower mechanism.

		• Approval of appointment of the Chief Financial Officer (that is, the whole-time finance director or any other person heading the finance function or discharging that function) after assessing the qualifications, experience and background, etc. of the candidate.

		• To review the management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operation.

		• To review the statement of significant related party transactions submitted by the management.

		• To review the management letters/letters of internal control weaknesses issued by the statutory auditors.

		• To review the internal audit reports relating to internal control weaknesses.

		• To review the appointment, removal and terms of remuneration of the chief internal auditor. • To review the utilization of loans and/ or advances from/investment by the holding company in the subsidiary exceeding ₹ 1,000 million or 10% of the asset size of the subsidiary, whichever is lower including existing loans or advances or investments existing as on the date of coming into force of this provision. • Reference to audit committee charter functions • Statement of deviations: (a) Quarterly statement of deviation(s) including report of monitoring agency, if applicable, submitted to stock exchange(s) as per the specified regulation (b) Annual statement of funds utilized for purposes other than those stated in the offer document / prospectus / notice in terms of the requirement of the specified regulations

231


Standard for NYSE-Listed Companies		SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015

The audit committee must consist of at least three members, and each member must be independent within the meaning established by the NYSE and Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. The audit committee members must be financially literate or become financially literate within a reasonable period of their appointment to the audit committee.		Regulation 18(1)(a)(b) of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 require that a qualified and independent audit committee should be set up, which has a minimum of three members. Two-thirds of its members should be independent directors and the chairman of the audit committee should be an independent director.

Each listed company must have disclosed whether its Board of directors has identified an audit committee financial expert (as defined under applicable rules of the SEC) and if not, the reasons why the Board has not done so.		Regulation 18(1)(c) of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 also require that all members of the audit committee should be financially literate and at least one member should have financial management and accounting expertise.

The audit committee must have a written charter that addresses the committee’s purpose and responsibilities. At a minimum, the committee’s purpose must be to assist the Board in the oversight of the integrity of the company’s financial statements, the company’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, the independent auditor’s qualifications and independence and the performance of the company’s internal audit function and independent auditors. The duties and responsibilities of the audit committee include conducting a review of the independent auditing firm’s annual report describing the firm’s internal quality control procedures, any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality control review or peer review of the firm and any steps taken to address such issues.

The audit committee is also to assess the auditor’s independence by reviewing all relationships between the company and its auditor. It must establish the company’s hiring guidelines for employees and former employees of the independent auditor.

The committee must also discuss the company’s annual audited financial statements and quarterly financial statements with management and the independent auditors, the company’s earnings press releases, as well as financial information and earnings guidance provided to analysts and rating agencies, and policies with respect to risk assessment and risk management.

Each listed company must have an internal audit function.

The committee must also meet separately, periodically, with management, with internal auditors (or other personnel responsible for the internal audit function) and with independent auditors and review with the independent auditor any audit problems or difficulties and management’s response.

The committee must report regularly to the Board.

(The NYSE audit committee requirements apply to us as foreign private issuers and we are not exempt from this requirement.)

232


Standard for NYSE-Listed Companies		SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015

*Compensation Committee*

Listed companies must have a compensation committee composed entirely of independent board members as defined by the NYSE listing standards. The committee must have a written charter that addresses its purpose and responsibilities.		Regulation 19 of and SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 states that, the company shall set up a nomination and remuneration committee which shall comprise at least three directors, all of whom shall be non-executive directors and at least half shall be independent. Chairman of the committee shall be an independent director.

These responsibilities include (i) reviewing and approving corporate goals and objectives relevant to CEO compensation; (ii) evaluating CEO performance and compensation in light of such goals and objectives for the CEO; (iii) based on such evaluation, reviewing and approving CEO compensation levels; (iv) recommending to the board non-CEO compensation, incentive compensation plans and equity-based plans; and (v) producing a report on executive compensation as required by the SEC to be included in the company’s annual proxy statement or annual report. The committee must also conduct an annual performance self-evaluation. (The NYSE compensation committee requirements allow us, as a foreign private issuer, to follow our home country rules in this regard. We comply with our home country rules applicable to the Compensation Committee.)		Regulation 19 of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 read with Part D of Schedule II, the role of the committee shall include the following: (1) formulation of the criteria for determining qualifications, positive attributes and independence of a director and recommend to the board a policy, relating to the remuneration of the directors, key managerial personnel and other employees; (2) formulation of criteria for evaluation of Independent Directors and the board; (3) devising a policy on board diversity; (4) identifying persons who are qualified to become directors and who may be appointed in senior management in accordance with the criteria laid down, and recommend to the board their appointment and removal. The company shall disclose the remuneration policy and the evaluation criteria in its annual report. (5) whether to extend or continue the term of appointment of the independent director, on the basis of the report of performance evaluation of independent directors. (6) recommend to the board, all remuneration, in whatever form, payable to senior management. The quorum for a meeting of the nomination and remuneration committee shall be either two members or one third of the members of the committee, whichever is greater, including at least one independent director in attendance. The nomination and remuneration committee shall meet at least once in a year. As per the Companies Act, 2013, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee shall identify persons who are qualified to become directors and who may be appointed in senior management in accordance with the criteria laid down, recommend to the Board their appointment and removal and shall specify the manner for effective evaluation of performance of Board, its committees and individual directors to be carried out either by the Board, by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee or by an independent external agency and review its implementation and compliance. The policy of this Committee shall be placed on the website of the company, if any, and the salient features of the policy and changes therein, if any, along with the web address of the policy, if any, shall be disclosed in the Board’s report.

233


Standard for NYSE-Listed Companies		SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015

*Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee*

Listed companies must have a nominating/corporate governance committee composed entirely of independent board members.		Companies Act, 2013 requires that every listed company shall constitute a nomination and remuneration committee, comprising of three or more non-executive directors, out of which not less than one-half shall be independent directors. This Committee is also required pursuant to the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015.

234


Standard for NYSE-Listed Companies		SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015

The committee must have a written charter that addresses its purpose and responsibilities, which include (i) identifying individuals qualified to become board members; (ii) selecting, or recommending that the board select, the director nominees for the next annual meeting of shareholders; (iii) developing and recommending to the board a set of corporate governance principles applicable to the company; (iv) overseeing the evaluation of the board and management; and (v) conducting an annual performance evaluation of the committee. (The NYSE nominating/corporate governance committee requirements do not apply to us as a foreign private issuer.)		Regulation 19 of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 read with Part D of Schedule II, the role of the committee shall include the following: (1) Formulation of the criteria for determining qualifications, positive attributes and independence of a director and recommend to the board a policy, relating to the remuneration of the directors, key managerial personnel and other employees; (2) Formulation of criteria for evaluation of Independent Directors and the board; (3) Devising a policy on board diversity; (4) Identifying persons who are qualified to become directors and who may be appointed in senior management in accordance with the criteria laid down, and recommend to the board their appointment and removal. The company shall disclose the remuneration policy and the evaluation criteria in its Annual Report. (5) whether to extend or continue the term of appointment of the independent director, on the basis of the report of performance evaluation of independent directors. The quorum for a meeting of the nomination and remuneration committee shall be either two members or one third of the members of the committee, whichever is greater, including at least one independent director in attendance. The nomination and remuneration committee shall meet at least once in a year.

*Corporate Governance Guidelines*

Listed companies must adopt and disclose corporate governance guidelines. (The NYSE requirement that corporate governance guidelines be adopted does not apply to us as a foreign private issuer. However, we must disclose differences between the corporate governance standards to which we are subject and those of the NYSE.)		Corporate governance requirements for listed companies in India are included in Regulation 17 to 27 of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015.

*Code of Business Conduct and Ethics*

All listed companies, United States and foreign, must adopt and disclose a code of business conduct and ethics for directors, officers and employees, and promptly disclose any waivers of the code for directors or executive officers. (The NYSE requirement for a code of business conduct and ethics does not apply to us as a foreign private issuer.)		Regulation 17 (5), 25(3) and Schedule V of SEBI(LODR) Regulations, 2015 require that the board of directors shall lay down a code of conduct for all board members and senior management of a listed company. This code of conduct is required to be posted on the website of the company. Further, all board members and senior management personnel are required to affirm compliance with the code on an annual basis and the company’s annual report must contain a declaration to this effect signed by its CEO.

		Regulation 17(5)(b) and Regulation 25(5) of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015,

		• The Code of Conduct shall suitably incorporate the duties of independent directors as laid down in the Companies Act, 2013.

		• An independent director shall be held liable, only in respect of such acts of omission or commission by a company which had occurred with his knowledge, attributable through board processes, and with his consent or connivance or where he had not acted diligently with respect of the provisions contained in the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015.

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C. Material Contracts

See Item 7 “Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—B. Related Party Transactions— Related Party Transactions” for details.

Outstanding loans

See Note 17 “Borrowings” in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for details.

D. Exchange Controls

General

Ownership of Indian companies by non-residents is regulated by the GoI and Reserve Bank of India (‘RBI’) under the provisions of Foreign Exchange Management Act of 1999 (‘FEMA’), as amended, read with the rules, regulations and notifications issued under FEMA (‘Foreign Exchange Control Regulations’). Foreign investment in securities issued by Indian companies is generally regulated by the Foreign Exchange Control Regulations. A person resident outside India can transfer any security of an Indian company or any other security to an Indian resident only in accordance with the terms and conditions specified under Foreign Exchange Control Regulations made thereunder or as permitted by the RBI.

Foreign Direct Investment

The GoI had, pursuant to its liberalization policy, set up Foreign Investment Promotion Board (‘FIPB’), to regulate all foreign direct investment. Foreign direct investment (“FDI”), means investment by non- resident entity or a person resident outside India in the capital of the Indian Company under Schedule 1 of Foreign Exchange Management (Transfer or Issue of Security by a Person Resident Outside India) Regulations 2000. FDI in India can be either through the automatic route or through the government approval route. Over a period of time, the GoI has relaxed the restrictions on FDI. Recently, as a part of the Union Budget, the Finance Minister proposed to abolish the FIPB in a phased out manner in fiscal year 2018. On June 5, 2017, the GoI issued the Office Memorandum- F.No. 01/01/FC12017–FIPB, providing details regarding the specified sectoral regulatory bodies who would grant approval for foreign investment under the extant FDI Policy and transition with respect to applications pending before FIPB. As per the said memorandum, eleven notified sectors/activities requiring government approval would now approach the concerned administrative ministry or department. For instance, FDI proposals relating to mining sector would be approved by Ministry of Mines. FDI proposals requiring government approval for other residuary sectors (except core investment companies) not covered under the specified sector list would be approved by Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (‘DIPP’).

A person who is a citizen of Bangladesh or an entity incorporated in Bangladesh can invest in India under the FDI Policy, with the prior approval of the DIPP and/ or the respective sectoral administrative ministries or departments. Further, a citizen of Pakistan or an entity incorporated in Pakistan can invest, only under the government approval route, in sectors/activities other than defense, space and atomic energy and sectors/activities prohibited for foreign investment.

Subject to certain conditions, under current regulations, FDI in most industry sectors are under automatic route if the percentage of equity holding by all foreign investors does not exceed specified industry-specific thresholds. These conditions include certain minimum pricing requirements, compliance with the SEBI (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011, as amended, (‘the Takeover Code’), exit and ownership restrictions based on the nature of the foreign investor. FDI is prohibited in certain sectors such as the lottery business, atomic energy, chit funds, nidhi companies trading in transferable development rights, railways (other than permitted activities), real estate business or construction of farm houses (other than development of townships, construction of residential and commercial premises, roads or bridges and real estate investment trusts registered and regulated under the SEBI (REITs) Regulations 2014 and manufacturing of cigars.

FDI policy lays down guidelines for calculation of direct and indirect foreign investment in an Indian company.

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A person residing outside India (other than a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh) or any entity incorporated outside India (other than an entity incorporated in Pakistan or Bangladesh and an overseas corporate body as defined in FEMA) has general permission to purchase equity shares (including partly paid up shares), convertible debentures or convertible preference shares of an Indian company (mandatorily required to be fully paid up and compulsorily convertible), subject to certain terms and conditions.

Currently, subject to certain exceptions, investment by Non-Resident Indians (‘NRIs’) (as defined under Foreign Exchange Management (Deposit) Regulations, 2000), in Indian companies on non-repatriation basis do not require the prior approval of the RBI subject to prohibition of investment in chit fund or a nidhi company or investment in Indian companies engaged in agricultural/ plantation activities or real estate business or construction of farm houses (other than development of townships, construction of residential and commercial premises, roads or bridges and real investment trusts registered and regulated under the SEBI (REITs) Regulations 2014) or dealing in Transfer of Development Rights The GoI has indicated that in all cases where FDI is allowed on an automatic route , the RBI would continue to be the primary agency for the purposes of monitoring and regulating foreign investment.

As per the FDI Policy, downstream investment means indirect foreign investment (an investment by an Indian company/ Limited Liability Partnership (‘LLP’) which in turn, has foreign investment), into another Indian company/LLP, by way of subscription or acquisition. Downstream investment by an Indian company/LLP, which is owned and/or controlled by non-resident entities, into another Indian company/LLP, must be in accordance with the relevant sectoral conditions and caps with regard to the sectors in which the latter Indian company/LLP is operating.

Downstream investments by Indian companies/LLP will be subject to the following conditions:

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Such a company/LLP is to notify the Secretariat for Industrial Assistance, DIPP and/ or the respective sectoral administrative ministries or departments of its downstream investment in the form available at http://www.fipbindia.com within 30 days of such investment, even if capital instruments have not been allotted along with the modality of investment in new/existing ventures (with/without expansion program);

•

Downstream investment by way of induction of foreign investment in an existing Indian company/LLP to be duly supported by a resolution of the board of directors as also a shareholders agreement, if any;

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Issue/transfer/pricing/valuation of shares shall be in accordance with applicable SEBI/RBI guidelines;

•

For the purpose of downstream investment, the Indian companies/LLP making the downstream investments would have to bring in requisite funds from abroad and not leverage funds from the domestic market. This would, however, not preclude downstream companies/LLPs, with operations, from raising debt in the domestic market. Downstream investments through internal accruals are permissible by an Indian company/LLP subject to certain conditions provided under FDI policy. For the purposes of foreign investment policy, internal accruals will mean as profits transferred to reserve accounts after payment of taxes.

We are majorly controlled by a non-resident entity and hence all downstream investments made by us are subject to the above conditions.

Under the current regulations, following the Cairn India Merger sanctioned by the NCLT, Mumbai Bench, Vedanta Limited is engaged in the following businesses:

•

Mining and processing of aluminium, copper and zinc, FDI up to 100% is permitted under the automatic route, subject to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

•

Exploration of oil and natural gas – FDI up to 100% is permitted under the automatic route.

Portfolio Investment by Non-Resident Indians

A variety of methods for investing in shares of Indian companies are available to NRIs. Under the portfolio investment scheme, each NRI can purchase (on repatriation as well as non-repatriation basis) up to 5.0% of the paid-up value of the share issued by an Indian company, subject to the condition that the aggregate paid-up value of shares purchased by all NRIs does not exceed 10% of the paid up capital of the Company. The aggregate ceiling limit of 10.0% limit may be raised to 24.0% if a special resolution is passed in a general meeting of the shareholders of the Company. In addition to portfolio investments in Indian companies, NRIs may also make foreign direct investments in Indian companies under the FDI route discussed above. These methods allow NRIs to make portfolio investments in shares and other securities of Indian companies on a basis not generally available to other foreign investors.

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Overseas corporate bodies controlled by NRIs, were previously permitted to invest on more favorable terms under the portfolio investment scheme. The RBI no longer recognizes overseas corporate bodies as an eligible class of investment vehicle under various routes and schemes under the foreign exchange regulations.

Investment by Foreign Portfolio Investors

The SEBI (Foreign Portfolio Investors) Regulations, 2014 (‘FPI Regulations’) came into effect, where the SEBI clarified on March 28, 2014 that the new regime would commence on June 1, 2014. All the existing foreign institutional investors (‘FIIs”), sub accounts and qualified foreign investors (‘QFIs’) have been classified together into a new class of investors known as the foreign portfolio investors (‘FPIs’). FPIs are required to be registered with the designated depositary participant on behalf of the SEBI subject to compliance, with ‘Know Your Customer’ norms. FPIs are permitted to invest only in certain securities, including but not limited to securities in the primary and secondary markets (including shares, debentures and warrants of companies, listed or to be listed on a recognized stock exchange in India), derivatives traded on a recognized stock exchange, treasury bills, dated government securities, and such other instruments specified by the SEBI from time to time.

A single foreign portfolio investor or an investor group is permitted to invest in equity capital of an Indian company only below 10.0% of the total issued capital of the company. Subject to compliance with all applicable Indian laws, rules, regulations, guidelines and approvals in terms of the FPI Regulations, an FPI, other than a Category III foreign portfolio investor and unregulated broad based funds, which are classified as Category II foreign portfolio investors by virtue of their investment manager being regulated, may issue or otherwise deal in offshore derivative instruments (as defined under the FPI Regulations) directly or indirectly, only in the event (i) such offshore derivative instruments are issued only to persons who are regulated by an appropriate foreign regulatory authority; and (ii) such offshore derivative instruments are issued after compliance with ‘Know Your Client’ norms. An FPI shall ensure that any transfer of offshore derivative instruments issued by or on behalf of the FPI, is made subject to the following conditions: (a) such offshore derivative instruments are transferred to persons subject to fulfillment of sub-regulation (1) of FPI Regulations; and (b) prior consent of the foreign portfolio investor is obtained for such transfer, except when the persons to whom the offshore derivative instruments are to be transferred to are pre-approved by the FPI.

Any FII or QFI who holds a valid certificate of registration will be deemed to be a FPI until the expiry of the block of 3 years for which fees has been paid as provided by the SEBI (Foreign Institutional Investors) Regulations, 1995. All existing FIIs and sub accounts, subject to payment of conversion fees specified in the FPI Regulations, may continue to buy, sell or otherwise deal in securities subject to the provisions of the FPI Regulations, until the earlier of (i) expiry of its registration as a FII or sub-account, or (ii) obtaining a certificate of registration as an FPI. All QFIs may continue to buy, sell or otherwise deal in securities until the earlier of (i) up to a period of a one year from the date of commencement of the FPI Regulations or; (ii) obtaining a certificate of registration as an FPI. In furtherance of the FPI Regulations, the RBI amended relevant provisions of Foreign Exchange Management (Transfer or Issue of Security by a Person Resident outside India) Regulations, 2000 on March 13, 2014. The portfolio investor registered in accordance with the FPI Regulations would be called ‘Registered Foreign Portfolio Investor (‘RFPI’). Accordingly, an RFPI may purchase and sell shares and convertible debentures of an Indian company through a registered broker as well as purchase shares and convertible debentures offered to the public under the FPI Regulations. Further, RFPI may sell shares or convertible debentures so acquired (i) in an open offer in accordance with the Takeover Code or (ii) in an open offer in accordance with the SEBI (Delisting of Equity Shares) Regulations, 2009; or (iii) through buyback of shares by a listed Indian company in accordance with the SEBI (Buy-back of Securities) Regulations, 1998. An RFPI may also acquire shares or convertible debentures (i) in any bid for, or acquisition of securities in response to an offer for disinvestment of shares made by the Central Government or any state government; or (ii) in any transaction in securities pursuant to an agreement entered into with merchant banker in the process of market making or subscribing to unsubscribed portion of the issue in accordance with Chapter XB of the SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2009.

The individual and aggregate investment limits for the RFPIs should be below 10.0% and up to 24.0% respectively of the total paid-up equity capital or 10.0% and 24.0% respectively of the paid-up value of each series of convertible debentures issued by an Indian company and such investment should be within the overall sectoral caps prescribed under the FDI policy. The aggregate ceiling limit of 24.0% limit may be raised to up to the sectoral cap/ statutory ceiling, as applicable if a special resolution is passed in a general meeting of the shareholders of the company. An RFPI may invest in government securities and corporate debt subject to limits specified by the RBI and SEBI from time to time and to trade in all exchange traded derivative contracts on the stock exchanges in India subject to the position limits as specified by SEBI from time to time.

ADSs

Issue of ADSs

Issue of securities through the depository receipt mechanism by Indian companies is governed by the Companies Act, 2013 (Companies Act), the Companies (Issue of Global Depository Receipts) Rules, 2014 (“Depository Receipts Rules”) and the Depository Receipts Scheme, 2014 (the “DR Scheme”).

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The GoI approved the DR Scheme on October 21, 2014, which came into force on December 15, 2014. Consequently, the Issue of Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds and Ordinary Shares (through Depository Receipt Mechanism) Scheme, 1993 (“the 1993 Scheme”) has been repealed except to the extent relating to foreign currency convertible bonds. The DR Scheme is in addition to the other policies or facilities described above, relating to investments in Indian companies by foreign investors.

Under the DR Scheme, an Indian company, whether listed or unlisted, private or public, is permitted to issue securities, including equity shares, through the depository receipt mechanism if such company has not been specifically prohibited from accessing capital markets or dealing in securities.

In terms of the DR Scheme, securities can be issued through the depository receipt mechanism up to a limit so that the aggregate underlying securities issued to foreign depositories for issuance of depository receipts along with securities already held by persons resident outside India does not exceed the applicable foreign investment limits prescribed by regulations framed under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. The depository receipts and the underlying securities may be converted into each other subject to the applicable foreign investment limit.

The DR Scheme provides that underlying securities shall not be issued to a foreign depository for issuance of depository receipts at a price which is less than the price applicable to a corresponding mode of issuance to domestic investors.

In terms of the DR Scheme, the foreign depository is entitled to exercise voting rights, if any, associated with the underlying securities whether pursuant to voting instructions from the holder of depository receipts or otherwise. Further, a holder of depository receipts issued against underlying equity shares shall have the same obligations as if it were the holder of the equity shares if it has the right to issue voting instruction.

Restrictions on Redemption of ADSs, Sale of the Equity Shares Underlying the ADSs and the Repatriation of Sale Proceeds

A non-resident holder of the ADSs may transfer such ADSs, or request that the overseas depositary bank redeem such ADSs. A non-resident holder of ADS can transfer or redeem the ADS into underlying equity shares of the company subject to the procedures specified under the DR Scheme. In the case of redemption, the overseas depositary bank will request the domestic custodian bank to release the corresponding underlying shares in favor of the non-resident investor for being sold directly on behalf of the non- resident investor, or being transferred in the books of account of the company in the name of the non-resident.

Foreign investors holding ADS or equity shares equal to or more than 25.0% of the company’s total equity capital/ voting rights may be required to make a public announcement of offer to the remaining shareholders of the company under the Takeover Code, on any acquisition of equity capital/voting rights or ADS equal to or more than 25.0% by the foreign investor.

Investors who seek to sell any equity shares in India withdrawn from the depositary facility and to convert the Rupee proceeds from the sale into foreign currency and repatriate the foreign currency from India will also be subject to certain exchange control restrictions on the conversion of Rupees into dollars.

Fungibility of ADSs

As per the directions issued by the Ministry of Finance in coordination with RBI on the two-way fungibility of ADSs, an ADS holder who has redeemed the ADS into underlying equity shares and has sold it in the Indian Market is permitted to purchase to that extent, through a registered stock broker in India, shares of an Indian company for the purposes of converting the same into ADSs, subject, inter alia, to the following conditions:

•

the shares of the Indian company are purchased on a recognized stock exchange in India;

•

the shares are purchased with the permission of the domestic custodian for the ADSs issued by the Indian company and such shares are deposited with the custodian after purchase;

•

the custodian agreement is amended to enable the custodian to accept shares from entities other than the company;

•

the number of shares of the Indian company so purchased does not exceed the head room which is equivalent to the difference between numbers of ADS originally issued and number of ADS outstanding, as further adjusted for ADS redeemed into underlying shares and registered in the name of the non-resident investor (and is further subject to specified sectoral caps); and

•

compliance with the provisions of the ADR Scheme and the guidelines issued thereunder.

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Further, the amendment to the regulations permit an issuer in India to sponsor the issue of ADSs through an overseas depositary against underlying equity shares accepted from holders of its equity shares in India for offering outside of India. The sponsored issue of ADSs is possible only if the following conditions are satisfied:

•

the price of the offering is determined by the lead manager of the offering. The price shall not be less than the average of the weekly high and low prices of the shares of the company during the 2 weeks preceding the relevant date (i.e. the date on which the board of directors of the company decides to open the issue);

•

the ADS offering is approved by the relevant authorities;

•

the ADS offering is approved by a special resolution of the shareholders of the issuer in a general meeting;

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the facility is made available to all the equity shareholders of the issuer;

•

the proceeds of the offering are repatriated into India within 1 month of the closing of the offering;

•

the sales of the existing equity shares are made in compliance with the foreign direct investment policy in India;

•

the number of shares offered by selling shareholders are subject to limits in proportion to the existing holdings of the selling shareholders when the offer is oversubscribed; and

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the offering expenses do not exceed 7.0% of the offering proceeds and are paid by shareholders on a pro-rata basis.

The issuer is also required to furnish a report to the RBI specifying the details of the offering, including the amount raised through the offering, the number of ADSs issued, the underlying shares offered and the percentage of equity in the issuer represented by the ADSs.

Corporate Actions

The ADS holders are entitled to receive the benefits of corporate actions such as bonus, split and dividend in proportion to the number of equity shares represented by the ADS. The benefits are subject to the terms and conditions of the FEMA regulations and the offer documents of ADS issue.

Buyback of ADS

Shares issued under the ADR Scheme represented by the ADS, are eligible for participation in a buyback scheme, if any, announced by us. In the event that we decide to implement the buyback scheme for ADS holders, the option form for the buyback scheme will be distributed to the ADS custodian who will submit the same to the overseas depository. ADS holders who wish to participate in the buyback scheme may exercise the buyback option by converting the ADS into ordinary equity shares and surrendering those shares to the company under the buyback scheme.

Transfer of Shares

The RBI has now granted general permission to persons resident outside India to transfer shares and convertible debentures held by them to an Indian resident, subject to compliance with certain terms and conditions (including pricing norms) and reporting requirements. A resident who wishes to purchase shares from a non-resident must, pursuant to the relevant notice requirements, file a declaration with an authorized dealer in the prescribed Form FC-TRS within 60 days from the date of receipt of the amount of consideration, together with the relevant documents and file an acknowledgment thereof with the Indian company to effect transfer of the shares.

A non-resident may also transfer any security to a person resident in India by way of gift. The transfer of shares from an Indian resident to a non-resident does not require the prior approval of the GoI or the RBI if the activities of the investee company are under the automatic route pursuant to the FDI Policy and are not under the specified financial services sector, the non-resident shareholding is within sector limits under the FDI policy and the pricing is in accordance with the guidelines prescribed by SEBI and the RBI.

A non-resident of India is generally permitted to sell equity shares underlying the ADSs held by him to any other non-resident of India without the prior approval of the RBI. The RBI has granted general permission for the transfer of shares by a person resident outside India to a person resident in India, subject to compliance with certain pricing norms and reporting requirements.

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Other than mutual funds that may purchase ADSs subject to terms and conditions specified by the RBI and employees in connection with stock options, a person resident in India is not permitted to hold ADSs of an Indian company. An ADS holder is permitted to surrender the ADSs held by him in an Indian company and to receive the underlying equity shares under the terms of the deposit agreement.

E. Taxation

India Taxation

The following is a summary of the material Indian income tax, stamp duty and estate duty consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposal of the ADSs and the equity shares underlying the ADSs for non-resident investors of the ADSs. The summary only addresses the tax consequences for non-resident investors who hold the ADSs or the equity shares underlying the ADSs as capital assets and does not address the tax consequences which may be relevant to other classes of non-resident investors, including dealers. The summary proceeds on the basis that the investor continues to remain a non-resident when the income by way of dividends and capital gains are earned. The summary is based on Indian tax laws and relevant interpretations thereof as are in force as of the date of this Annual Report, including the Income Tax Act and the special tax regimes under Sections 115AC of the Income Tax Act read with the Issue of Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds and Ordinary Shares (Through Depository Receipt Mechanism) Scheme, 1993, as amended, which provides for the taxation of persons resident in India on their global income and persons not resident in India on income received, accruing or arising in India or deemed to have been received, accrued or arisen in India, and is subject to change.

The Finance Act 2013 had included General Anti Avoidance Rule (“GAAR”), wherein the tax authority may declare an arrangement as an impermissible avoidance arrangement if an arrangement is not entered at arm’s length, results in misuse/ abuse of provisions of Income Tax Act, 1961, lacks commercial substance or the purpose of arrangement is obtaining a tax benefit. If any of our transactions are found to be ‘impermissible avoidance arrangements’ under GAAR, our business may be affected.

The GAAR was originally proposed to become effective from April 1, 2013. Thereafter, a panel was formed to study the proposed GAAR, and make suitable recommendations. In September 2013, the GoI notified rules regarding the applicability of GAAR provisions. In the Finance Act 2015 it was proposed that the implementation of GAAR be deferred by two years and GAAR provisions be made applicable to the income of fiscal year 2018 and subsequent years by an amendment of the Income Tax Act. Further, investments made up to March 31, 2017 are protected from the applicability of the GAAR amendment in the relevant rules in this regard.

This summary is not intended to constitute a complete analysis of all the tax consequences for a non-resident investor under Indian law in relation to the acquisition, ownership and disposal of the ADSs or the equity shares underlying the ADSs and does not deal with all possible tax consequences relating to an investment in the equity shares and ADSs, such as the tax consequences under state, local and other (for example, non-Indian) tax laws.

Residence

For the purpose of the Income Tax Act, an individual is considered to be a resident of India during fiscal year if he is in India for at least 182 days in a particular year or at least 60 days in a particular year and for a period or periods aggregating at least 365 days in the preceding 4 years. However, the 60 days period shall be read as 182 days in the case of (i) a citizen of India who leaves India in the previous year for employment outside India, or (ii) a citizen of India or a person of Indian origin living abroad who visits India. Previously, a company was considered to be resident in India if it was incorporated in India or the control and management of its affairs is situated wholly in India during the relevant fiscal year. However, the Finance Act 2015 changed the criteria for deciding the residential status of a company in India by stating that the place of effective management of a company would be the critical factor for such determination. Individuals and companies who are not residents of India based on the above mentioned criteria are treated as non-residents. In the Finance Act 2016, place of effective management compliance has been deferred by one year. The new requirements have been made applicable from assessment year 2017-18. The Indian Income Tax department has further clarified that guidelines regarding the place of effective management shall not be applicable to companies having turnover of ₹ 500 million or less in a financial year.

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Taxation of Sale of the ADSs

It is unclear whether capital gains derived from the sale by a non-resident investor of rights in respect of ADSs will be subject to tax liability in India. This will depend on the view taken by Indian tax authorities on the position with respect to the situs of the rights being transferred in respect of the ADSs. The Finance Act, 2012 retrospectively amended the term “property” so as to include any rights in or in relation to an Indian company. Therefore, situs of right in respect of ADSs may be considered as situated in India. Nevertheless, under the ADR Scheme and as per section 47(viia) of the Income-tax Act, the transfer of ADSs outside India by a non-resident holder to another non-resident does not give rise to any capital gain tax in India. Under the ADR Scheme, conversion of ADSs into equity shares shall not give rise to any capital gain tax in India.

ADSs are considered as long-term capital assets if they are held for a period of more than 36 months otherwise they are considered as short-term capital assets. Section 115AC of the Income Tax Act provides that income by way of long-term capital gains arising from the transfer of ADSs by the non-resident holder is taxed at the rate of 10.0% plus applicable surcharge and education cess; short term capital gains on such a transfer is taxed at the rate of 30.0% (40.0% in case of a foreign company) plus applicable surcharge and education cess. Because there are significant intricacies relating to application of rules on indirect transfers, it is not clear, whether or to what extent, a buyer of ADS of the company should be held liable for not withholding tax on the acquisition of shares or be subject to Indian tax on gains realized on disposition of ADS. However the non-resident investor may examine exemption, if any available to him, from such taxation under the relevant Double Taxation Agreement between India and country of his residence.

The incidence of capital gains and the period of holding, in the event ADSs are converted into shares and the shares are sold within a period of 36 months, may be checked with the tax counsels.

Taxation of Dividends

Dividends paid to non-resident holders of ADSs are not presently subject to tax in the hands of the recipient. However, the company that is distributing the dividend was liable to pay a “dividend distribution tax” at the rate of 15.0% (on a gross basis) plus a surcharge of 10.0% and an education cess at the rate of 3.0%. According to the Finance (No. 2) Act, 2014, dividend distribution tax is to be levied on gross distributable surplus amount instead of amount paid net of taxes. This resulted in an increase in the dividend distribution tax to more than 20%, from 16.995% in the earlier years which was applicable to the dividends declared, distributed or paid on or after October 1, 2014. According to the Finance Act 2015, the surcharge on dividend tax has increased from 10% to 12%, and the effective dividend distribution tax rate is 20.35% with effect from April 1, 2016. The Finance Act, 2018 increased the rate of cess from 3.0% to 4.0% which will result in an effective dividend distribution tax rate of 20.6% from April 1, 2018. Under Section 115O(1A) of the Income Tax Act 1961, an Indian company, subject to certain conditions, can set off the dividend income received from its subsidiaries against the amount of dividend declared and distributed by it to its shareholders, therefore reducing the dividend distribution tax to the extent of such set-off.

Any distribution of additional ADS or equity shares to resident or non-resident shareholders will not be subject to any Indian tax.

Further the Finance Act 2016 has provided that any income earned by an individual, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) or a firm, who is a resident in India, by way of dividend declared, distributed or paid by any domestic company in excess of ₹ 1,000,000 in aggregate shall be chargeable to tax at the rate of 10.0% on gross basis on such amount exceeding ₹ 1,000,000. With the introduction of Finance Act 2017, this provision will be applicable only to specified assessees (specified assessee means a person other than domestic company, charitable trusts registered under section 12 A or 10 (23C) of the Finance Act 2017).

Taxation of Sale of the Equity Shares

Sale of equity shares by any holder may occasion certain incidence of tax in India, as discussed below. Under applicable law, the sale of equity shares may be subject to a transaction tax and/or tax on income by way of capital gains. Capital gains accruing to a non-resident investor on the sale of the equity shares, whether to an Indian resident or to a person resident outside India and whether in India or outside India, may be subject to Indian capital gains tax in certain instances as described below.

Sale of the Equity Shares on a Recognized Stock Exchange

Shares listed on recognized stock exchange in India issued on conversion of the ADSs held by the non-resident investor for a period of more than 12 months is treated as long term capital assets, otherwise they are considered as short term capital asset. Unlisted shares are treated as long-term capital assets, if they are held for more than 24 months, otherwise they are treated as short-term capital assets.

Subject to the following, long-term capital gains realized by a non-resident upon the sale of equity shares obtained on conversion of ADSs are subject to tax at a rate of 10.0% along with the applicable surcharge and education cess; and short-term capital gains on such a transfer will be taxed at the rate of tax applicable to the seller;

•

Long-term capital gain realized by a non-resident upon the sale of equity shares obtained on conversion of ADSs is exempt from tax if the sale of such shares is made on a recognized stock exchange and Securities Transaction Tax, or STT (described below) is paid. However, the Finance Act 2018 effective from fiscal year 2018-19, has removed this exemption and long-term capital gain on sale of listed shares, on which STT is paid, is also taxable at 10.0% and

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•

Any short term capital gain is taxed at 15.0% along with the applicable surcharge and education cess, if the sale of such equity shares is settled on a recognized stock exchange and STT is paid on such sale.

In accordance with applicable Indian tax laws, any income arising from a sale of the equity shares of an Indian company through a recognized stock exchange in India is subject to a securities transaction tax. Such tax is payable by a person irrespective of residential status and is collected by the recognized stock exchange in India on which the sale of the equity shares is effected.

Withholding tax on capital gains on sale of shares to non-resident is required to be deducted under Section 195 of the Income Tax Act at the prescribed rates.

For the purpose of computing capital gains on the sale of equity shares, the sale consideration received or accruing on such sale shall be reduced by the cost of acquisition of such equity shares and any expenditure incurred wholly and exclusively in connection with such sale. Under the Issue of Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds and Ordinary Shares (Through Depository Receipt Mechanism) Scheme, 1993, or Scheme, the purchase price of equity shares in India listed company received in exchange for ADSs will be the market price of the underlying shares on the date that the depositary gives notice to the custodian of the delivery of equity shares in exchange for such corresponding ADSs. The market price is the price of the equity shares prevailing in the BSE or the NSE as applicable. There is no corresponding provision under the Income Tax Act providing for the use of market price as the basis for determination of the purchase price of the equity shares. In the event that the tax department denies the use of market price as the basis for determination of the purchase price of the equity shares, the original purchase price of the ADSs shall be considered as the purchase price of the equity shares for computing the capital gains tax.

According to the Scheme, a non-resident’s holding period for the purpose of determining the applicable capital gains tax rate relating to equity shares received in exchange for ADSs commences on the date of notice of redemption by the depositary to the custodian.

Securities Transaction Tax

Since October 1, 2004, with respect to a sale and purchase of equity shares entered into on a recognized stock exchange, (i) both the buyer and seller are required to pay a Securities Transaction Tax (STT) at the rate of 0.1% of the transaction value of the securities, if the transaction is a delivery based transaction, i.e. the transaction involves actual delivery or transfer of shares; the rate of 0.1% has been substituted for 0.125% by the Finance Act, 2012 with effect from July 1, 2012. (ii) the seller of the shares is required to pay a STT at the rate of 0.025% of the transaction value of the securities if the transaction is a non-delivery based transaction, i.e. a transaction settled without taking delivery of the shares. STT is levied with respect to a sale and purchase of a derivative and the rates of STT as amended by Finance Act, 2013 with effect from June 1, 2013 is as follows: (i) in case of sale of an option in securities, the seller is required to pay an STT at the rate of 0.017% of the option premium; (ii) in case of a sale of an option in securities, where the option is exercised, the buyer is required to pay a STT at the rate of 0.125% of the settlement price; and (iii) in case of sale of futures in securities, the seller is required to pay STT at 0.017% on transaction value. This rate of 0.017% changed to 0.01% under the Finance Act, 2013.

Capital Losses

The losses arising from a transfer of a capital asset in India can only be set off against capital gains and not against any other income in accordance with the Income Tax Act. A long-term capital loss may be set off only against a long-term capital gain. To the extent the losses are not absorbed in the year of transfer, they may be carried forward for a period of 8 years immediately succeeding the year for which the loss was first computed and may be set off against the long-term capital gains assessable for such subsequent years. In order to get the benefit of set-off of the capital losses in this manner, the non-resident investor must file appropriate and timely tax returns in India.

Tax Treaties

The above mentioned tax rates and the consequent taxation are subject to any benefits available to a non-resident investor under the provisions of any agreement for the avoidance of double taxation entered into by the GoI with the country of tax residence of such non-resident investor. The investors are advised to consult their tax advisors the residential status for the purpose of treaty benefits in the event the investments are made through special purpose vehicle in an overseas jurisdiction.

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Withholding Tax on Capital Gains

Any taxable gain realized by a non-resident from the sale of ADSs shall be subject to withholding tax of 10.0% at source and withheld by the buyer. However, no withholding tax is required to be withheld under Section 196D-(2) of the Income Tax Act from any income accruing to a FII as defined in Section 115AD of the Income Tax Act on the transfer of securities. The FII is required to pay the tax on its own behalf.

Buy-Back of Securities

Indian companies are not subject to tax on the buy-back of their equity shares which are listed on a stock exchange. However, such shareholders will be taxed on the resulting gains from the share buy-back. We would be required to withhold tax at source in proportion to the capital gains tax liability of our shareholders.

Stamp Duty

Upon the issuance of the equity shares underlying the ADSs, we are required to pay a stamp duty for each equity share equal to 0.1% of the issue price. Under Indian stamp law, no stamp duty is payable on the acquisition or transfer of equity shares in book-entry form. However, a sale of equity shares by a non-resident holder will be subject to Indian stamp duty at the rate of 0.25% on the market value of equity shares on the trade date, although such duty is customarily borne by the transferee. A transfer of ADSs is not subject to Indian stamp duty.

Wealth Tax, Gift Tax and Inheritance Tax

The holding of ADSs by non-resident investors and the holding of the equity underlying shares by the depositary in a fiduciary capacity is exempt from payment of wealth tax. Further, there is no tax on gifts and inheritances which applies to the ADSs, or the equity shares underlying the ADSs. The Finance Act 2015 has abolished the levy of wealth tax under the Wealth-tax Act, 1957 with effect from April 1, 2015.

Service Tax

Till June 30, 2017, brokerage or commission fees paid to stockbrokers in connection with the sale or purchase of equity shares were subject to Indian service tax at the effective tax rate of 12.36% (including cess of 3.0%) collected by the stockbroker. Further, pursuant to Section 65(101) of the Finance Act (2 of the 2004) a sub-broker was also subject to this service tax. The Finance Act 2015 increased the service tax rate from 12.36% to 14% effective from June 1, 2015. The ‘Education Cess’ and ‘Secondary and Higher Education Cess’ were subsumed in the revised rate of service tax of 14.0%. In addition to service tax, the GoI further levied Swachh Bharat Cess at the rate of 0.50% on the value of taxable services effective from November 15, 2015. The Finance Act 2016 further levied Krishi Kalyan Cess at the rate of 0.50% on the value of taxable services effective from June 1, 2016.

Goods and Service Tax (GST)

With effect from July 1, 2017, service tax was subsumed under GST. Therefore, brokerage or commission fees paid to stockbrokers in connection with the sale or purchase of equity shares became subject to GST at the rate of 18.0% and sub-brokers also became subject to GST at the same rate.

Minimum Alternate Tax

The Income Tax Act imposes a Minimum Alternate Tax on companies wherein the income tax payable on the total income is less than 18.5% of its book profit. The Minimum Alternate Tax is payable at the rate of 18.5% plus applicable surcharge and cess. The Finance Act 2013 increased the surcharge on income of domestic companies having taxable income above ₹ 100 million ($ 2 million) from 5.0% to 10.0% which resulted in the increase in the effective Minimum Alternate Tax rate for such companies from 20.01% to 20.96%. The Finance Act, 2015 has increased the surcharge to 12% which resulted in an increase in the effective Minimum Alternate Tax rate for such companies to 21.34% which has been increased to 21.5% from April 1, 2018. Amounts paid as Minimum Alternate Tax may be applied towards regular income taxes payable in any of the succeeding 15 years (as amended by the Finance Act 2017) subject to certain conditions. The manner of computing the Minimum Alternate Tax which can be claimed as a credit is specified in the Income Tax Act. The Finance Act, 2007, included income eligible for deductions under section 10A and 10B of the Act in the computation of book profits for the levy of Minimum Alternate Tax, and determined that Minimum Alternate Tax is payable on income which falls within the ambit of section 10A and 10B of the Act.

Tax Credit

A non-resident investor may be entitled to a tax credit with respect to any withholding tax paid by us or any other person for such non-resident investor’s account in accordance with the applicable laws of the applicable jurisdiction.

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United States Federal Income Taxation

The following discussion describes certain material United States federal income tax consequences to US Holders (defined below) under present law of an investment in the ADSs or equity shares. This summary applies only to investors that hold the ADSs or equity shares as capital assets (generally, property held for investment) and that have the US dollar as their functional currency. This discussion is based on the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, as in effect on the date of this Annual Report and on United States Treasury regulations in effect or, in some cases, proposed, as of the date of this Annual Report, as well as judicial and administrative interpretations thereof available on or before such date. All of the foregoing authorities are subject to change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the tax consequences described below. The summary below does not discuss certain United States federal tax consequences that may be relevant to a particular US Holder’s particular circumstances, such as Medicare contribution tax on net investment income.

The following discussion neither deals with the tax consequences to any particular investor nor describes all of the tax consequences applicable to persons in special tax situations such as:

•

banks;

•

certain financial institutions;

•

insurance companies;

•

regulated investment companies;

•

real estate investment trusts;

•

broker dealers;

•

United States expatriates;

•

traders that elect to use the mark-to-market method of accounting;

•

tax-exempt entities;

•

persons liable for the alternative minimum tax;

•

persons holding an ADS or equity share as part of a straddle, hedging, conversion or integrated transaction;

•

persons that actually or constructively own 10.0% or more of our stock, by total combined voting power or by value;

•

persons subject to special tax accounting rules as a result of any item of gross income with respect to our ADSs or equity shares being taken into account in an applicable financial statement;

•

persons who acquired ADSs or equity shares pursuant to the exercise of any employee share option or otherwise as compensation; or

•

persons holding ADSs or equity shares through partnerships or other pass-through entities.

INVESTORS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS ABOUT THE APPLICATION OF THE UNITED STATES FEDERAL TAX RULES TO THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES AS WELL AS THE STATE AND LOCAL, FOREIGN AND OTHER TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF THE OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF ADSs OR EQUITY SHARES.

The discussion below of the United States federal income tax consequences to “US Holders” will apply to you if you are a beneficial owner of ADSs or equity shares and you are, for United States federal income tax purposes,

•

an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;

•

a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for United states federal income tax purposes) created or organized in the United States or under the laws of the United States, any State thereof or the District of Columbia;

•

an estate, the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source; or

•

a trust that (1) is subject to the primary supervision of a Court within the United States and the control of one or more United States persons for all substantial decisions of the trust or (2) was in existence on August 20, 1996, was treated as a domestic trust on the previous day and has a valid election in effect under the applicable United States Treasury regulations to be treated as a United States person.

If an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes holds ADSs or equity shares, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status and the activities of the partnership. A US Holder that is a partner in a partnership holding ADSs or equity shares is urged to consult its tax advisor.

The discussion below assumes that the representations contained in the deposit agreement are true and that the obligations in the deposit agreement and any related agreement will be complied with in accordance with their terms. If you hold ADSs, you should be treated as the holder of the underlying equity shares represented by those ADSs for United States federal income tax purposes.

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The United States Treasury has expressed concerns that parties to whom ADSs are pre-released may be taking actions that are inconsistent with the claiming, by US Holders of ADSs, of foreign tax credits for United States federal income tax purposes. Such actions would also be inconsistent with the claiming of the reduced rate of tax applicable to dividends received by certain non-corporate US Holders, as described below. Accordingly, the availability of foreign tax credits or the reduced tax rate for dividends received by certain non-corporate US Holders could be affected by future actions that may be taken by the United States Treasury or parties to whom ADSs are pre-released.

Taxation of Dividends and Other Distributions on the ADSs or Equity Shares

Subject to the PFIC rules discussed below, the gross amount of any distributions we make to you with respect to the ADSs or equity shares generally will be includible in your gross income as foreign source dividend income on the date of receipt by the depository, in the case of ADSs, or by you, in the case of equity shares, but only to the extent that the distribution is paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined under United States federal income tax principles). Any such dividends will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations in respect of dividends received from other United States corporations. To the extent that the amount of the distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits (as determined under United States federal income tax principles), such excess amount will be treated first as a tax-free return of your tax basis in your ADSs or equity shares, and then, to the extent such excess amount exceeds your tax basis in your ADSs or equity shares, as capital gain. However, we currently do not, and we do not intend to calculate our earnings and profits under United States federal income tax principles. Therefore, a US Holder should expect that any distribution will generally be reported as a dividend even if that distribution would otherwise be treated as a non-taxable return of capital or as capital gain under the rules described above.

With respect to certain non-corporate US Holders, including individual US Holders, dividends may be taxed at the lower applicable capital gains rate applicable to “qualified dividend income”, provided that (1) the ADSs or equity shares, as applicable, are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States or we are eligible for the benefits of the United States-India income tax treaty, (2) we are neither a PFIC nor treated as such with respect to you (as discussed below) for the taxable year in which the dividend is paid or the preceding taxable year, and (3) the equity shares are held for a holding period of more than 60 days during the 121 – day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date. Under US Internal Revenue Service authority, equity shares or ADSs representing such shares, are considered for the purpose of clause (1) above to be readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States if they are listed on the NYSE, as our ADSs currently are. You should consult your tax advisors regarding the availability of the lower capital gains rate applicable to qualified dividend income for any dividends paid with respect to our ADSs or equity shares.

Any dividends will constitute foreign source income for foreign tax credit limitation purposes. If the dividends are taxed as qualified dividend income (as discussed above), the amount of the dividend taken into account for purposes of calculating the foreign tax credit limitation will in general be limited to the gross amount of the dividend, multiplied by the reduced tax rate applicable to qualified dividend income and divided by the highest tax rate normally applicable to dividends. The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific classes of income. For this purpose, any dividends distributed by us with respect to ADSs or equity shares will generally constitute “passive category income”. A US Holder may not be able to claim a foreign tax credit for any Indian taxes imposed with respect to dividend distribution taxes on ADSs or equity shares (as discussed under “- India Taxation—Taxation of Dividends”). The rules relating to the determination of the foreign tax credit are complex and US Holders should consult their tax advisors to determine whether and to what extent a credit would be available in their particular circumstances, including the effects of any applicable income tax treaties.

Taxation of a Disposition of ADSs or Equity Shares

Subject to the PFIC rules discussed below, upon a sale or other disposition of ADSs or equity shares, a US Holder will generally recognize a capital gain or loss for United States federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized for the ADS or equity share and such US Holder’s tax basis in such ADSs and equity shares. Any such gain or loss will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the US Holder’s holding period in the ADSs and equity shares at the time of the disposition exceeds one year. Long-term capital gain of individual US Holders generally will be subject to United States federal income tax at reduced tax rates. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. Any such gain or loss that you recognize generally will be treated as United States source income or loss for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.

Because gains generally will be treated as United States source gain, as a result of the United States foreign tax credit limitation, any Indian income tax imposed upon capital gains in respect of ADSs or equity shares (as discussed under “— India Taxation — Taxation of Sale of the ADSs,” “—India Taxation—Taxation of Sale of the Equity Shares,” “—India Taxation—Sale of the Equity Shares on a Recognized Stock Exchange,” “—India Taxation—Sale of the Equity Shares otherwise than on a Recognized Stock Exchange” and “—India Taxation—Buy-Back of Securities”) may not be currently creditable unless a US Holder has other foreign source income for the year in the appropriate United States foreign tax credit limitation basket. US Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the application of Indian taxes to a disposition of an ADS or equity share and their ability to credit an Indian tax against their United States federal income tax liability.

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Passive Foreign Investment Company

A non-United States corporation will be a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes for any taxable year if, applying certain look-through rules either:

•

at least 75.0% of its gross income for such taxable year is passive income, or

•

at least 50.0% of the total value of its assets (based on an average of the quarterly values of the assets during such year) is attributable to assets, including cash, that produce passive income or are held for the production of passive income (the asset test).

For this purpose, we will be treated as owning our proportionate share of the assets and earning our proportionate share of the income of any other corporation in which we own, directly or indirectly, 25.0% (by value) of the stock. A separate determination must be made after the close of each taxable year as to whether we were a PFIC for that year. Because the value of our assets for purposes of the PFIC test will generally be determined by reference to the market price of our equity shares and ADSs, which has historically been volatile, fluctuations in the market price of our equity shares and ADSs may cause us to become a PFIC. In addition, changes in the composition of our income or assets may cause us to become a PFIC. While we still believe we were not a PFIC for our taxable year ended March 31, 2018, there is no guarantee that the U.S. Internal Revenue service would agree such on position.

If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which you hold ADSs or equity shares, we generally will continue to be treated as a PFIC with respect to you for all succeeding years during which you hold our equity shares or ADSs, unless we cease to be a PFIC and you make a “deemed sale” election with respect to the equity shares or ADSs. If such election is timely made, you will be deemed to have sold the ADSs and equity shares you hold at their fair market value on the last day of the last taxable year in which we qualified as a PFIC and any gain from such deemed sale would be subject to the consequences described in the following two paragraphs. In addition, a new holding period would be deemed to begin for the equity shares and ADSs for purposes of the PFIC rules. After the deemed sale election, your equity shares or ADSs with respect to which the deemed sale election was made will not be treated as shares in a PFIC unless we subsequently become a PFIC.

For each taxable year that we are treated as a PFIC with respect to you, you will be subject to special tax rules with respect to any “excess distribution” that you receive and any gain you recognize from a sale or other disposition (including a deemed sale discussed in the precedent paragraph and a pledge) of the ADSs or equity shares, unless you make a “mark-to-market” election as discussed below. Distributions you receive in a taxable year that are greater than 125.0% of the average annual distributions you received during the shorter of the three preceding taxable years or your holding period for the ADSs or equity shares will be treated as an excess distribution. Under these special tax rules:

•

the excess distribution or gain will be allocated ratably over your holding period for the ADSs or equity shares;

•

the amount allocated to the current taxable year, and any taxable year in your holding period prior to the first taxable year in which we were a PFIC, will be treated as ordinary income; and

•

the amount allocated to each other year will be subject to the highest tax rate in effect for individuals or corporations, as applicable, for each such year and the interest charge generally applicable to underpayments of tax will be imposed on the resulting tax attributable to each such year.

In addition, non-corporate US Holders will not be eligible for reduced rates of taxation on any dividends received from us (as described above under “—Taxation of Dividends and Other Distributions on the ADSs or Equity Shares”) if we are a PFIC in the taxable year in which such dividends are paid or in the preceding taxable year.

The tax liability for amounts allocated to taxable years prior to the year of disposition or “excess distribution” cannot be offset by any net operating losses for such years, and gains (but not losses) realized on the sale or other disposition of the ADSs or equity shares cannot be treated as capital, even if you hold the ADSs or equity shares as capital assets.

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If we are treated as PFIC with respect to you for any taxable year, to the extent any of our subsidiaries are also PFICs or we make direct or indirect equity investments in other entities that are PFICs, you may be deemed to own shares in such lower-tier PFICs that are directly or indirectly owned by us in that proportion which the value of the ADSs and equity shares you own bears to the value of all of the ADSs and equity shares, and you may be subject to the adverse tax consequences described in the preceding two paragraphs with respect to the shares of such lower-tier PFICs that you would be deemed to own. You should consult your tax advisor regarding the applicability of the PFIC rules to any of our PFIC subsidiaries

A US Holder of “marketable stock” (as defined below) in a PFIC may make a mark-to-market election for such stock to elect out of the PFIC rules described above regarding excess distributions and recognized gains. If you make a valid mark-to-market election for the ADSs or equity shares, you will include in income for each year that we are a PFIC an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the ADSs or equity shares as of the close of your taxable year over your adjusted basis in such ADSs or equity shares. You will be allowed a deduction for the excess, if any, of the adjusted basis of the ADSs or equity shares over their fair market value as of the close of the taxable year. However, deductions are allowable only to the extent of any net mark-to-market gains on the ADSs or equity shares included in your income for prior taxable years. Amounts included in your income under a mark-to-market election, as well as gain on the actual sale or other disposition of the ADSs or equity shares will be treated as ordinary income. Ordinary loss treatment will also apply to the deductible portion of any mark-to-market loss on the ADSs or equity shares, as well as to any loss realized on the actual sale or other disposition of the ADSs or equity shares, to the extent that the amount of such loss does not exceed the net mark-to-market gains previously included for such ADSs or equity shares. Your basis in the ADSs or equity shares will be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss amounts. If you make a mark-to-market election, any distributions that we make would generally be subject to the tax rules discussed above under “ – Taxation of Dividends and Other Distributions on the ADSs or Equity Shares,” except that the lower rate applicable to qualified dividend income (discussed above) would not apply.

The mark-to-market election is available only for “marketable stock,” which is stock that is traded in other than de minimis quantities on at least 15 days during each calendar quarter (“regularly traded”) on a qualified exchange or other market, as defined in the applicable United States Treasury regulations. The NYSE is a qualified exchange. Our ADSs are listed on the NYSE and, consequently, if you are a holder of ADSs and the ADSs are regularly traded, the mark-to-market election would be available to you if we become a PFIC. Because a mark-to-market election cannot be made for equity interests in any lower-tier PFICs we own, a US Holder may continue to be subject to the PFIC rules with respect to its indirect interest in any investments held by us that are treated as an equity interest in a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes. You should consult your tax advisors as to the availability and desirability of a mark-to-market election, as well as the impact of such election on interests in any lower-tier PFICs.

Alternatively, if a non-United States corporation is a PFIC, a holder of shares in that corporation may avoid taxation under the PFIC rules described above regarding excess distributions and recognized gains by making a “qualified electing fund” election to include in income its share of the corporation’s income on a current basis. However, you may make a qualified electing fund election with respect to our ADSs or equity shares only if we agree to furnish you annually with certain tax information, and we currently do not intend to prepare or provide such information.

Unless otherwise provided by the United States Treasury, each US Holder of a PFIC is required to file an annual report containing such information as the United States Treasury may require. If we are or become a PFIC, you should consult your tax advisor regarding any reporting requirements that may apply to you.

You should consult your tax advisor regarding the application of the PFIC rules to your investment in ADSs or equity shares.

Information Reporting and Backup Withholding

Any dividend payments with respect to ADSs or equity shares and proceeds from the sale, exchange, redemption or other disposition of ADSs or equity shares may be subject to information reporting to the US Internal Revenue Service and possible United States backup withholding. Backup withholding will not apply, however, to a US Holder who furnishes a correct taxpayer identification number and makes any other required certification or who is otherwise exempt from backup withholding. US Holders who are required to establish their exempt status generally must provide such certification on Internal Revenue Service Form W-9. US Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the application of the United States information reporting and backup withholding rules.

Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld as backup withholding may be credited against your United States federal income tax liability, and you may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules by timely filing the appropriate claim for refund with the US Internal Revenue Service and furnishing any required information.

Additional Reporting Requirements

Certain US Holders who are individuals (and certain entities) are required to report information relating to an interest in our ADSs or equity shares, subject to certain exceptions (including an exception for ADSs and equity shares held in accounts maintained by certain financial institutions). US Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the effect, if any, of these rules on the ownership and disposition of our ADSs or equity shares.

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F. Dividends and Paying Agents

Not applicable

G. Statements by Experts

Not applicable

H. Documents on Display

Publicly filed documents concerning our Company which are referred to in this Annual Report may be inspected and copied at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Copies of these materials can also be obtained from the Public Reference Room at the SEC’s principal office, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington D.C. 20549, after payment of fees at prescribed rates.

The SEC maintains a website at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants that make electronic filings through its Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval or EDGAR, system. We have made all our filings with SEC using the EDGAR system.

I. Subsidiary Information

Not applicable

ITEM 11.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis

The Company’s businesses are subject to several risks and uncertainties including commodity price risk and financial risks such as liquidity, currency, interest rate and credit risk. See Note 23 “Financial Instruments” in the Notes to the consolidated financial statements for disclosures on market risk and financial instruments.

ITEM 12.

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

A. Debt Securities

Not Applicable.

B. Warrants and Rights

Not Applicable.

C. Other Securities

Not Applicable.

D. American Depositary Shares

Our ADR facility is maintained with Citibank, N.A., or the Depositary, pursuant to a deposit agreement, dated as of September 6, 2013 and renewed until August 31, 2018, among us, our Depositary and the holders and beneficial owners of our ADSs. We use the term “holder” in this discussion to refer to the person in whose name an ADR is registered on the books of the Depositary. In accordance with the deposit agreement, the Depositary may charge fees up to the amounts described below:

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	Type of Service	Fees	Payer
1.	Issuance of ADSs upon the deposit of ordinary shares (excluding issuances as a result of distributions described in paragraph 4 below).	Up to $ 5 per 100 ADSs (or any portion thereof) issued.	Person depositing ordinary shares or person receiving ADSs.

2.	Delivery of Deposited Securities (as defined under the Deposit Agreement) against surrender of ADSs.	Up to $ 5 per 100 ADSs (or any portion thereof) surrendered.	Person surrendering ADSs for purpose of withdrawal of Deposited Securities or person to whom Deposited Securities are delivered.

3.	Distribution of cash dividends or other cash distributions (i.e. sale of rights and other entitlements).	Up to $ 2 per 100 ADSs (or any portion thereof) held.	Person to whom distribution is made.

4.	Distribution of ADSs pursuant to (i) stock dividends or other free stock distributions, or (ii) exercise of rights to purchase additional ADSs.	Up to $ 5 per 100 ADSs (or any portion thereof) held.	Person to whom distribution is made.

5.	Distribution of securities other than ADSs or rights to purchase additional ADSs (i.e. spin-off shares).	Up to $ 5 per 100 ADSs (or any portion thereof) held.	Person to whom distribution is made.

6.	Depositary services.	Up to $ 2 per 100 ADSs (or any portion thereof) held.	Person holding ADSs on applicable record date(s) established by the Depositary.

7.	Transfer of ADRs.	Up to $ 1.50 per certificate presented for transfer.	Person presenting certificate for transfer.

In addition, holders or beneficial owners of our ADSs, persons depositing ordinary shares for deposit and persons surrendering ADSs for cancellation and withdrawal of deposited securities will be required to pay the following charges:

•

taxes (including applicable interest and penalties) and other governmental charges;

•

registration fees for the registration of ordinary shares or other deposited securities on the share register and applicable to transfers of ordinary shares or other deposited securities to or from the name of the custodian, the Depositary or any nominees upon the making of deposits and withdrawals;

•

certain cable, telex, facsimile and electronic transmission and delivery expenses;

•

expenses and charges incurred by the Depositary in the conversion of foreign currency;

•

fees and expenses incurred by the Depositary in connection with compliance with exchange control regulations and other regulatory requirements applicable to ordinary shares, deposited securities, ADSs and ADRs;

•

fees and expenses incurred by the Depositary in connection with the delivery of deposited securities; and

•

fees and expenses incurred by the Depositary, the custodian, or any nominee in connection with the servicing or delivery of deposited securities.

In the case of cash distributions, the applicable fees, charges, expenses and taxes will be deducted from the cash being distributed. In the case of distributions other than cash, such as share dividends, the distribution generally will be subject to appropriate adjustments for the deduction of the applicable fees, charges, expenses and taxes.

In certain circumstances, the Depositary may dispose of all or a portion of such distribution and distribute the net proceeds of such sale to the holders of ADS, after deduction of applicable fees, charges, expenses and taxes. If the Depositary determines that any distribution in property is subject to any tax or other governmental charge which the Depositary is obligated to withhold, the Depositary may withhold the amount required to be withheld and may dispose of all or a portion of such property in such amounts and in such manner as the Depositary deems necessary and appropriate to pay such taxes or charges and the Depositary will distribute the net proceeds of any such sale after deduction of such taxes or charges to the holders of ADSs entitled to the distribution.

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During fiscal year 2018, the Depositary has reimbursed to us an amount of $ 2,129,240 (after deduction of applicable withholding taxes amounting to $ 912,531) with respect to investor relations expenses.

PART II

ITEM 13.

DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

None

ITEM 14.

MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

ADS offering in 2009

On July 16, 2009, we completed the ADS offering on the NYSE. We sold an aggregate of 131,906,011 ADSs representing 131,906,011 equity shares. The price per ADS was $ 12.15. The joint book runners of the ADS offering were J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Morgan Stanley & Co. International plc. The joint book runners exercised their over-allotment option to acquire an additional 8,449,221 ADSs at $ 12.15 per ADS. The aggregate price of the offering amount, including the over-allotment option, registered and sold was $ 1,603 million.

The registration statement on Form F-3 (File No. 333-160580) filed by us in connection with the ADS offering was automatically effective on July 15, 2009. The net proceeds from the offering to us, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses ($ 14 million), amounted to $ 1,589 million. As of March 31, 2014, we have used the entire proceeds for the purpose mentioned in the offer document.

Pursuant to the Re-organization Transactions, each holder of the SIIL ADSs, received three Vedanta Limited ADSs for every five existing SIIL ADSs. The total outstanding Vedanta Limited ADSs as of March 31, 2018 were 62,106,174.

ITEM 15.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As required by Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Exchange Act, management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Disclosure controls and procedures refer to controls and other procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in our reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding our required disclosure.

Based on the foregoing, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of March 31, 2018, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act.

Internal controls over financial reporting refers to a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and effected by our board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB.

Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that, (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of our financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Our management assessed the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2018 based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. As a result of this assessment, management concluded that, as of March 31, 2018, our internal control over financial reporting was effective in providing reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The scope of our management’s assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting includes all of our company’s consolidated operations.

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Our management recognizes that there are inherent limitations in the effectiveness of any system of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or override of internal control. Accordingly, even effective internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation, and may not prevent or detect all misstatements and can only provide reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and presentation of our financial statements.

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as at March 31, 2018 has been audited by S.R. Batliboi & Co. LLP, India, our independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which is reproduced in its entirety in Item 15(c) below:

(c) Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Vedanta Limited

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited Vedanta Limited and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Vedanta Limited and subsidiaries (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2018, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated statements of financial position of the Company as of March 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of profit or loss, comprehensive income, cash flows and changes in equity for each of the two years in the period ended March 31, 2018, and the related notes and our report dated July 31, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ S. R. Batliboi & Co. LLP

Gurugram, India

July 31, 2018

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(d) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management has evaluated, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, whether any changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our last fiscal year have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Based on the evaluation we conducted, management has concluded that no such changes have occurred in fiscal year 2018.

ITEM 16A.

AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

The Chairperson of our Audit Committee is Lalita D. Gupte. Ravi Kant, Aman Mehta and U.K. Sinha are the other members of the Audit Committee. Mr. U.K. Sinha was appointed as a member of the Audit Committee on March 28, 2018.

Each of Messrs. Kant, Mehta, Sinha and Ms. Gupte satisfy the “independence” requirements pursuant to the rules of the SEC and Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act. See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—A. Directors and Senior Management” for the experience and qualifications of the members of the Audit Committee.

Our Board has determined that Ms. Gupte qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” within the requirements of the rules promulgated by the SEC relating to audit committees.

ITEM 16B.

CODE OF ETHICS

We have adopted a written Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that is applicable to all of our directors, senior management, executive officers and employees. We amended our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics in October 2014. We added certain provisions including applicable provisions relating to the U.K Bribery Act, 2010, particularly on the meaning, scope and application of the terms bribery, corruption, fraud, gifts, entertainment and political contributions to the Company and our employees. As an issuer of securities in the United States, we are subject to the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). Our businesses in other countries shall comply with their respective anti-corruption laws. Additionally, in accordance with the Companies Act, 2013 and the amendment in the listing agreement of stock exchanges in India, the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics was amended to incorporate the duties of the Independent Directors. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics was amended in April 2015, elaborating on competition law and fair dealing. In addition to this amendment, the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics was further amended at the board meeting held in July 2015, to refresh the core purposes and values of the Company. During fiscal year 2017, the Health, Safety and Environment section in the Company’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics was amended to reflect applicable provisions relating to the U.K. Modern Slavery Act, 2015, particularly by including a Slavery and Trafficking Statement including the steps taken that slavery and human trafficking is not taking place, either in our business or supply chains.

We have posted the code on our website at - www.vedantalimited.com/media/85863/vedanta_limited_code_of_conduct_and_business_ethics.pdf

Information contained in our website does not constitute a part of this Annual Report. We will also make available a copy of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics to any person, without charge, if a written request is made to us at our registered office at 1st Floor, C wing, Unit 103, Corporate Avenue, Atul Projects, Chakala, Andheri (East), Mumbai-400 093, Maharashtra, India.

ITEM 16C.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB and are audited by M/s S.R. Batliboi & Co. LLP, Chartered Accountants (“SRB”), a firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board in the United States and an Indian firm of Chartered Accountants registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP (“Deloitte”) served as our independent registered public accountant for the year ended March 31, 2016 and SRB were appointed as independent registered public accountant for the year ended March 31, 2017. The following table shows the aggregate fees for the professional services and other services rendered by SRB and the various member firms of SRB to us, including our subsidiaries, in fiscal years 2017 and 2018.


	Fiscal year
	2017		2018
	($ in thousands)
Audit fees (audit and review of financial statements)		3,364		3,794
Audit-related fees (including other miscellaneous audit related certifications)		58		60
Tax fees (tax audit, other certifications and tax advisory services)		108		84
All other fees (certification on corporate governance and advisory services)		285		414

Total		3,815		4,352

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Audit Committee Pre-approval Process

Our Audit Committee reviews and pre-approves the scope and the cost of audit services related to us and permissible non-audit services performed by the independent auditors, other than those for de minimis services, which are approved by the Audit Committee prior to the completion of the audit. All of the services related to our Company provided by SRB during the last fiscal year have been approved by the Audit Committee.

ITEM 16D.

EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

Not applicable

ITEM 16E.

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

Period

Total number of
shares (and units)
purchased

Average price
paid per share (or
units) (in ₹)

Total number of shares (or
units) purchased as part of
publically announced plans or
programs⁽¹⁾

Maximum number of shares (or

units) that may yet be purchased under

plans or programs⁽¹⁾

August 8, 2017 to August 11, 2017

6,842,374

295.51

10,826,630

5% within one financial year of the paid up capital;

5% within the scheme tenure of the paid up capital

(1)

The shareholders of the Company by way of postal ballot on December 12, 2016 approved the Vedanta Limited ESOS 2016 and issue of securities to the employees of the Company and its holding or subsidiary companies. These options were awarded to employees under the Vedanta Limited ESOS 2016 with effect from December 15, 2016 for which the vesting condition is the performance period of 36 months from December 15, 2016 to December 14, 2019. The options shall expire after six months from the date of vesting.

On December 12, 2016, the shareholders authorized the Company for the acquisition of up to 148,250,244 Equity Shares (which represents five percent of the paid up equity capital as on March 31, 2016, in different tranches from the secondary market by Vedanta Employee Stock Option Scheme trust (“ESOS Trust”) for the purpose of allotment to the employees of the Company and its subsidiary, post vesting of the options allotted. The secondary acquisition in a fiscal year by the ESOS Trust shall not exceed five percent of the paid up equity capital of the Company or such other limit as may be prescribed under the SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits) Regulations, 2014 from time to time as at the end of the previous fiscal year.

ITEM 16F.

CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

a) Former independent registered public accounting firm

(i) On June 29, 2016, the Company in its Annual General meeting appointed SRB as the statutory auditor of the Company for its Indian reporting for a term of five (5) years from the fiscal year ended March 31, 2017 to the fiscal year ending March 31, 2021 subject to ratification of their appointment by the members at every Annual General Meeting, as may be required under the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013. SRB replaced Deloitte who was the Company’s statutory auditor until the Annual General Meeting held on June 29, 2016. In order to align the change in auditors for the US reporting, based on the recommendation of the Audit Committee of the Company, the Board of Directors of the Company, on October 28, 2016 approved the appointment of SRB as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for U.S. reporting purposes for a term of five (5) years from the fiscal year ended March 31, 2017 to fiscal year ending March 31, 2021. SRB accepted the engagement on October 28, 2016.

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(ii) Simultaneously with the engagement of SRB, the Company terminated Deloitte as its independent registered public accounting firm.

(iii) The report of Deloitte on the Company’s consolidated financial statements for fiscal years ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion, and were not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles.

(iv) During the fiscal years ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, and through October 28, 2016, there were no (a) disagreements with Deloitte on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to Deloitte’s satisfaction, would have caused Deloitte to make reference to the subject matter thereof in connection with its reports for such years; or (b) reportable events that would be required to be described under Item 16 F(a)(1)(v) of Form 20-F in connection with the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F.

(v) The Company provided Deloitte with a copy of the above disclosure and submitted a letter from Deloitte agreeing with such disclosure as Exhibit 99.1 to Form 6-K submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 28, 2016.b) New independent registered public accounting firm

The Company engaged SRB as its new independent accountants as of October 28, 2016. During the two fiscal years ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 and through October 28, 2016, the Company did not consult SRB regarding either (i) the application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, either completed or proposed; or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on the Company’s financial statements, and neither a written report was provided to the Company or oral advice was provided that SRB concluded was an important factor considered by the Company in reaching a decision as to the accounting, auditing or financial reporting issue; or (ii) any matter that was either the subject of a disagreement, as that term is defined in Item 16F(a)(1)(iv) of 20F and the related instructions to this item, or a reportable event as that term is described in Item 16F(a)(1)(v) of 20F.

ITEM 16G.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

As our ADSs are listed on the NYSE, we are subject to the NYSE listing standards. The NYSE listing standards applicable to us, as a foreign private issuer, are considerably different from those applicable to US companies. Under the NYSE rules, we need only (i) establish an independent Audit Committee; (ii) provide prompt certification by our Chief Executive Officer of any material

non-compliance with any corporate governance rules of the NYSE; (iii) provide periodic (annual and interim) written affirmations to the NYSE with respect to our corporate governance practices; and (iv) provide a brief description of significant differences between our corporate governance practices and those followed by US companies. Our Audit Committee consists of four directors: Lalita D. Gupte, who is our Chairperson, Ravi Kant, Aman Mehta and U.K. Sinha. Each of Messrs. Kant, Mehta, Sinha and Ms. Gupte satisfy the “independence” requirements of Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act. A brief description of the significant differences between our corporate governance practices and those followed by US companies can be found in “Item 10. Additional Information—B. Memorandum and Articles of Association—Comparison of Corporate Governance Standards.”

As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the NYSE rules applicable to a US company requiring (i) a board of directors consisting of a majority of independent directors, (ii) a compensation committee and a nominating/corporate governance committee, (iii) shareholder approval of equity-compensation plans, (iv) the adoption and disclosure of corporate governance guidelines, and (v) the adoption and disclosure of a code of business conduct and ethics for directors, officer and employees, and the prompt disclosure of any waivers thereof for directors or executive officers.

In addition, we are deemed to be a “controlled company” under the NYSE rules. As a result, we are exempt from the NYSE rules applicable to a US company that is not a “controlled company” requiring (i) a board of directors consisting of a majority of independent directors and (ii) a compensation committee and a nominating/corporate governance committee.

ITEM 16H.

MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

Not applicable

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PART III

ITEM 17.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

See Item 18 for a list of the financial statements filed as part of this Annual Report.

ITEM 18.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following financial statements are filed as part of this Annual Report, together with the report of the independent registered public accounting firms:

•

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

•

Consolidated Statements of Profit or Loss for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018

•

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018

•

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018

•

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as at March 31, 2017 and 2018

•

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018

•

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

ITEM 19.

EXHIBITS



1.1		Certificate of Incorporation pursuant to change of name to Vedanta Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Form 6-K (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on May 29, 2015.

1.2		Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vedanta Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.2 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2017 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2017.

2.1		Form of Deposit Agreement among Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, Citibank, N.A., as Depositary, and owners and holders from time to time of American Depositary Shares evidenced by American Depositary Receipts issued thereunder amended (including the Form of ADR)—incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a) of Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-139102), as filed with the SEC on June 15, 2007 as amended by Form of ADR incorporated by reference to Form 424B3 (File No. 333-139102), as filed with the SEC on June 28, 2010.

2.2		Form of Deposit Agreement among Sesa Goa Limited and Citibank, N.A., as Depositary and the holders and beneficial owners of American Depositary Shares issued thereunder—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Form 6-K (File No. 001-33175), as filed with the SEC on September 11, 2013.

2.3		Form of Deposit Agreement among Vedanta Limited and Citibank, N.A., for continued appointment of Citibank as the exclusive Depositary of American Depositary Receipts issued thereunder—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.3 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2017 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2017.

2.4		Specimen share certificate—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Form 6-K (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on May 29, 2015.

4.1**		Brand License Agreement with Vedanta Resources Plc.

4.2		Vedanta Resources plc Long-Term Incentive Plan—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.3		Vedanta Resources plc Employee Share Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) 2013—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.4		Vedanta Resources plc ESOP Scheme 2012—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.5		Vedanta Resources plc Performance Share Plan Rules—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2017 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2017.

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4.6		Cairn India Performance Option Plan—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2016 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 1, 2016.

4.7		Vedanta Resources plc Deferred Share Bonus Plan 2015—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2017 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2017.

4.8		Vedanta Limited Share Plan: Employee Stock Option Scheme (ESOS) 2016—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2017 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2017.

4.9**		Vedanta Limited Share Plan: Employee Stock Option Scheme (ESOS) 2017.

4.10		Relationship Agreement dated December 5, 2003 among Vedanta, Volcan Investments Limited, Dwarka Prasad Agarwal, Agnivesh Agarwal and Anil Agarwal—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.11		Deed of Adherence dated December 11, 2007 among Vedanta Resources plc, Volcan Investments Limited, Onclave PTC Limited and Anil Agarwal-incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2008 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008.

4.12		Shared Services Agreement dated December 5, 2003 among Vedanta, Sterlite Optical Technologies Limited, Sterlite Gold Limited and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, including the letter agreement dated April 13, 2006 amending the Shared Services Agreement—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.13		Consultancy Agreement dated March 29, 2005 between Vedanta and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.14		Management Services Agreement dated May 20, 2014 between Vedanta and Sesa Sterlite Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.15		Representative Office Agreement dated March 29, 2005 between Vedanta and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.16		Representative Office Agreement dated May 20, 2014 between Vedanta and Sesa Sterlite Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.17		Shareholders’ Agreement between the President of India and Sterlite Opportunities and Ventures Limited dated April 4, 2002—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.18		Shareholders’ Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, GoI and BALCO dated March 2, 2001—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1(File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.19		Guarantee Agreement between the President of India, Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, Sterlite Optical Technologies Limited and Sterlite Opportunities and Ventures Limited dated April 4, 2002—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.20		Agreement between Vedanta Aluminium Limited and Orissa Mining Corporation Limited dated October 5, 2004—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.21		Mining lease between the Government of Rajasthan and HZL dated March 13, 1980 renewed on September 15, 2000 pursuant to an order of the Government of Rajasthan dated May 1, 2000 and an indenture dated September 15, 2000—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.22		$ 92.6 million Term Facility Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited as borrower and CALYON, Standard Chartered Bank and ICICI Bank Limited as lenders dated March 22, 2006—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

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4.23		Japanese Yen 3,570 million and $ 19.65 million Term Loan Facilities Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited as borrower and ICICI Bank Limited, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and DBS Bank Limited as lenders dated September 19, 2005—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.24		$ 125 million Term Facility Agreement between HZL as borrower and ABN AMRO Bank N.V., CALYON, Standard Chartered Bank, DBS Bank Limited, Mizuho Corporate Bank, Limited., Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, The Sumitomo Trust and Banking Co., Limited., Cathay United Bank, Hua Nan Commercial Bank, National Bank of Kuwait S.A.K., Bank of Taiwan, The Export-Import Bank of the Republic of China, Chang Hwa Commercial Bank Limited., Chiao Tung Bank Co., Limited., The International Commercial Bank of China, Co. Limited., Mascareignes International Bank Ltd., Syndicate Bank, Canara Bank and The Shanghai Commercial and Savings Bank, Limited. as lenders dated July 29, 2005—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.25		$ 50 million Facility Agreement between BALCO as borrower and ICICI Bank Limited, Singapore Branch, ICICI Bank Limited, Bahrain Branch and ICICI Bank Limited, Offshore Banking Unit as lenders dated November 8, 2004—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.26		$ 50 million Facility Agreement between BALCO as borrower and ICICI Bank Limited, ICICI Bank Limited, Bahrain Branch and ICICI Bank Limited, Offshore Banking Unit as lenders dated November 10, 2004—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.27		₹ 10,000 million Facility Agreement between BALCO as borrower and Oriental Bank of Commerce, Syndicate Bank, The Jammu & Kashmir Bank Limited, Corporation Bank, Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited, State Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur, State Bank of Hyderabad, State Bank of Indore, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Patiala, State Bank of Saurashtra, The Federal Bank Limited, The Karnataka Bank Limited, The Karur Vysya Bank Limited, UCO Bank, Vijaya Bank, ABN AMRO Bank N.V., The Laxmi Vilas Bank Limited as lenders dated September 16, 2003—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.28		Information Memorandum dated May 30, 2013 relating to the issue of 5000 rated taxable secured listed redeemable non-convertible debentures of face value of ₹ 1 million each, aggregating up to ₹ 5000 million to be issued on a private placement basis in the financial year 2013-14 by BALCO—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.23 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.29		Disclosure document dated July 3, 2013 for private placement of secured, redeemable non-convertible debentures of ₹ 1,000,000 each aggregating up to ₹ 25000 million by Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.24 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.30		Disclosure document dated July 3, 2013 for Private Placement of Secured, Redeemable Non-Convertible Debentures of ₹ 1,000,000 each aggregating up to ₹ 4500 million—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.25 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.31		Disclosure document dated July 3, 2013, for Private Placement of Secured, Redeemable Non-Convertible Debenture of ₹ 100,000 each aggregating up to ₹ 750 million—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.26 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.32		Common Rupee Loan Agreement dated December 27, 2013 among Sesa Sterlite Limited as Borrower, the Banks and Financial Institutions set forth in Part A Schedule I, as Rupee Lenders, Axis Bank Limited, as Lenders’ Agent and Axis Trustee Services Limited as Security Trustee—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.27 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.33		Term Loan Agreement dated November 28, 2013 between Sesa Sterlite and Canara Bank—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.28 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.34		US$100,000,000 Facility Agreement dated June 20, 2008 between Vedanta Aluminium Limited as Borrower, ICICI Bank Limited as Arranger, The Banks and Financial Institutions (listed in Schedule 1) as Original Lenders and ICICI Bank Limited as Agent—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.29 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

258



4.35		Facility Agreement dated April 5, 2011 between Vedanta Aluminium Limited as Borrower, The Banks and Financial Institutions Set Forth in Schedule I as the Rupee Lenders and State Bank of India as the Issuing Bank and Facility Agent—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.30 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.36		Amendment and Restatement Agreement dated June 27, 2011 relating to the $500,000,000 Intercompany Loan Facility Agreement dated July 6, 2009 between Vedanta Aluminium as the borrower and Welter Trading Limited as the original lender and Axis Bank Limited, Hong Kong Branch as agent and Security Trustee under the Amended and Restated Facility Agreement—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.31 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.37		$50,000,000 Facility Agreement dated January 8, 2013 among Vedanta Aluminium as the original borrower, Sterlite Industries (India) Limited as guarantor, AXIS Bank Limited, Hong Kong Branch as arranger, as original lender and as agent and AXIS Bank Limited as security trustee—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.32 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.38		$1,200,000,000 Facility Agreement dated May 15, 2013 for Vedanta with Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Limited as borrower arranged by Bank of America, N.A., Barclays Banl Plc, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, J.P. Morgan Chase Bank N.A., Singapore Branch, The Royal Bank of Scotland Plc and Standard Chartered Bank and Standard Chartered Bank (Mauritius) Limited acting as account bank and Standard Chartered Bank acting as agent and security agent—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.33 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.39		₹ 50,000 million Facility Agreement dated July 21, 2014 among Sesa Sterlite Limited as borrower, State Bank of India as lender and SBICAP Trustee Company Limited as security trustee—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.35 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

4.40		₹ 10,000 million Facility Agreement dated April 15, 2014 among Sesa Sterlite Limited as borrower and Union Bank of India as lender—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.36 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

4.41		₹ 20,000 million Facility Agreement dated April 15, 2014 among Sesa Sterlite Limited as borrower, Bank of India as lender and SBICAP Trustee Company Limited as security trustee—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.37 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

4.42		₹ 10,250 million Facility Agreement dated April 15, 2014 among Sesa Sterlite Limited as borrower and Syndicate Bank as lender—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

4.43		₹ 20,000 million Facility Agreement dated April 15, 2014 among Sesa Sterlite Limited as borrower and Bank of Baroda as lender—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.39 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

4.44		Debenture trust deed dated December 23, 2014 for 9.36% rated, secured, listed, redeemable non-convertible debentures between Sesa Sterlite Limited as the Issuer and Axis Trustee Services Limited as the Debenture Trustee—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.40 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

4.45		$ 250 million conventional facility (with a greenshoe option to increase the facility amount by $ 125 million) and $ 250 million Islamic facility (with a greenshoe option to increase the facility amount by $ 125 million) for Vedanta Resources Plc with Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Ltd arranged by First Gulf Bank PJSC and Standard Chartered Bank as Conventional Facility Arrangers and Islamic Facility Arrangers, and Standard Chartered Bank (Mauritius) Limited acting as Account Bank and Standard Chartered Bank acting as Global Facility Agent—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.41 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

4.46		$ 100 million Facility Agreement dated August 20, 2014 among Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Ltd as borrower and Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited as lender—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.42 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

4.47		Subscription Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and the Life Insurance Corporation of India dated April 9, 2003—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1(File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

259



4.48		Option Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, India Foils Limited and ICICI Bank Limited dated February 18, 2005—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.49		Corporate Guarantee by Sterlite Industries (India) Limited to ICICI Bank Limited on behalf of India Foils Limited dated February 8, 2005—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1(File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.50		Corporate Guarantee by Sterlite Industries (India) Limited to ICICI Bank Limited on behalf of Vedanta Aluminium Limited dated December 4, 2004—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.51		Frame Contract between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and the CMT dated July 1, 2004, as amended on July 1, 2004—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.52		Copper Concentrate Purchase Contract between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and the CMT dated July 1, 2005—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.53		Agreement for Sale and Purchase of the Power Transmission Line Division between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Sterlite Optical Technologies Limited dated August 30, 2006—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.54		Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Navin Agarwal dated October 8, 2003—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.55		Agreement between Sesa Goa Limited and Navin Agarwal dated August 17, 2013—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.42 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.56		Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Kuldip Kumar Kaura dated September 12, 2006—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006.

4.57		Letter issued by Sterlite Industries (India) Limited to Kuldip Kumar Kaura dated March 27, 2008—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.28 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2008 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008.

4.58		Share Purchase Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Anil Agarwal dated October 3, 2006 relating to the sale of Sterlite Energy Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 of Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 22, 2006.

4.59		Share Purchase Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Dwarka Prasad Agarwal dated October 3, 2006 relating to the sale of Sterlite Energy Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 of Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 22, 2006.

4.60		Share Purchase Agreement between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Twin Star Infrastructure Limited dated October 3, 2006 relating to the sale of Sterlite Energy Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.31 of Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on November 22, 2006.

4.61		Specialty Deed between CMT, Mt Lyell Mining Company Limited, Citibank Limited and Citibank, N.A. dated April 1, 1999—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.36 of Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on February 8, 2007.

4.62		Subordination Deed Poll between Monte Cello Corporation N.V., Citibank Limited and Citibank, N.A. dated April 1, 1999—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.37 of Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1(File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on February 8, 2007.

4.63		Deed of Assignment of Debt between Monte Cello Corporation N.V. and Mt Lyell Mining Company Limited dated April 1, 1999—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 of Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on February 8, 2007.

4.64		Deed of Assignment of Debt between Monte Cello Corporation N.V., Citibank Limited and Citibank, N.A. dated April 1, 1999—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.39 of Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-138739), as filed with the SEC on February 8, 2007.

260



4.65		Memorandum of Understanding between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Vedanta Aluminium Limited dated August 29, 2007 relating to the subscription of the Zero Percent Optionally Fully Convertible Debentures-incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2008 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008.

4.66		Addendum dated March 17, 2008 to the Memorandum of Understanding between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Vedanta Aluminium Limited dated August 29, 2007 relating to the subscription of the Zero Percent Optionally Fully Convertible Debentures-incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.39 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2008 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008.

4.67		Memorandum of Understanding between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Vedanta Aluminium Limited dated December 23, 2007 relating to the subscription of the Zero Percent Optionally Fully Convertible Debentures-incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.40 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2008 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008.

4.68		Addendum dated March 17, 2008 to the Memorandum of Understanding between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Vedanta Aluminium Limited dated December 23, 2007 relating to the subscription of the Zero Percent Optionally Fully Convertible Debentures-incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.41 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2008 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008.

4.69		Purchase and Sale Agreement dated May 30, 2008 among Asarco LLC, AR Silver Bell, Inc., Copper Basin Railway, Inc., Asarco Santa Cruz, Inc., Sterlite (U.S.A), Inc. and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.42 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2008 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on June 30, 2008.

4.70		Amendment No. 1 dated April 15, 2009 to the Settlement and Sale and Purchase Agreement dated March 6, 2009 among Asarco LLC, AR Silver Bell, Inc., Copper Basin Railway, Inc., Asarco Santa Cruz, Inc., Sterlite (U.S.A), Inc., and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.43 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.71		Amendment No. 2 effective as of April 22, 2009 to the Settlement and Sale and Purchase Agreement dated March 6, 2009, as amended on April 15, 2009, among Asarco LLC, AR Silver Bell, Inc., Copper Basin Railway, Inc., Asarco Santa Cruz, Inc., Sterlite (U.S.A), Inc., and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.44 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.72		Amendment No. 3 effective as of June 12, 2009 to the Settlement and Sale and Purchase Agreement dated March 6, 2009, as amended on April 15, 2009 and April 22, 2009, among Asarco LLC, AR Silver Bell, Inc., Copper Basin Railway, Inc., Asarco Santa Cruz, Inc., Sterlite (U.S.A), Inc., and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.45 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.73		Sterlite Plan Agreement in Principle Term Sheet dated June 12, 2009 among Asarco LLC, the subsidiary debtors, Sterlite (U.S.A), Inc., Robert C. Pate, in his capacity as the Future Claims Representative, and the Official Committee of Asbestos Claimants—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.46 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.74		Credit Agreement Letter dated February 7, 2005 between India Foils Limited and ICICI Bank Limited-incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.47 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.75		Novation Agreement dated November 15, 2008 among Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, India Foils Limited and ICICI Bank Limited in respect of ₹ 773 million term loan facility—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.48 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.76		Credit Agreement Letter dated August 4, 2005 between India Foils Limited and ICICI Bank Limited-incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.49 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.77		Novation Agreement dated November 15, 2008 among Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, India Foils Limited and ICICI Bank Limited in respect of the ₹ 250 million term loan facility—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.50 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

261



4.78		Agreement dated February 18, 2009 between the Orissa Mining Corporation Limited and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.55 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.79		Term Sheet dated May 22, 2009 between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Vedanta Aluminium Limited relating to the subscription of 9.75% Non-Convertible Debentures-incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.54 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2009 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 10, 2009.

4.80		Indenture and Supplemental Indenture, both dated October 29, 2009, between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Wilmington Trust Company as trustee and Citibank, N.A., as securities administrator—incorporated by reference to Exhibits 4.1 and 4.2 to the Form-6K (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on November 3, 2009.

4.81		Second Supplemental Indenture dated October 29, 2009, between Sesa Goa Limited and Wilmington Trust Company as trustee and Citibank N.A., as securities administrator—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Form 6-K (File 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 11, 2013.

4.82		Trust Deed dated October 30, 2009 between Sesa Goa Limited and Citicorp International Limited for the $500,000,000 5.0% Convertible Bonds due 2014 convertible into Shares of Sesa Goa Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.73 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.83		Amendment dated March 29, 2009 to the Consultancy and Representative Office Agreement between Vedanta and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited both dated March 29, 2005—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.56 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.84		Outsourcing Services Agreement dated April 1, 2010 between Vedanta and Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.57 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.85		Outsourcing Services Agreement dated May 20, 2014 between Vedanta and Sesa Sterlite Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.76 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.86		Share Purchase Agreement dated May 9, 2010 between Anglo Operations Limited, Taurus International S.A., Anglo South Africa Capital (Pty) Limited, Anglo American Services (UK) Limited, Welter Trading Limited and Vedanta—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.58 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.87		Buyer’s Credit Import Advance facility dated December 8, 2009 and Demand Promissory Note accepted on May 18, 2010 obtained by BALCO from DBS Bank Limited for $ 50 million—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.59 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.88		Letter of Credit Facility Agreement dated August 30, 2010 obtained by TSPL from ICICI Bank for ₹ 10,000 million—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.60 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.89		Share Purchase and Shareholders’ Agreement dated September 17, 2010 between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, Leighton Contractors (India) Private Limited and Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.61 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.90		Corporate Guarantee dated December 8, 2010 given by Sterlite Industries (India) Limited to IL&FS Trust Company Limited on behalf of TSPL—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.62 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.91		Second Deed of Amendment dated December 16, 2010 between Anglo Operations Limited, Taurus International S.A., Anglo South Africa Capital (Pty) Limited, Anglo American Services (UK) Limited, Welter Trading Limited, THL Zinc Limited, Labaume B.V., Pecvest 17 (Proprietary) Limited and Vedanta as an amendment to the Share Purchase Agreement dated May 9, 2010—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.63 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.92		Letter of Credit Facility Agreement dated December 18, 2010 obtained by BALCO from ICICI Bank for ₹ 2.50 billion—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.64 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

262



4.93		Service Contract dated January 25, 2011 between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Mr. Din Dayal Jalan—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.65 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2011 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on September 30, 2011.

4.94		Service Contract dated January 29, 2013 between Sterlite Industries (India) Limited and Mr. Din Dayal Jalan—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.66 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2013 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on July 30, 2013.

4.95		Service Agreement dated April 1, 2014 between Sesa Sterlite Limited and Mr. Din Dayal Jalan—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.86 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

4.96		Addendum to the Service Agreement (dated April 1, 2014) between Sesa Sterlite Limited and Mr. Din Dayal Jalan—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.96 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

8.1**		List of subsidiaries of Vedanta Limited.

11.1		Sterlite Industries (India) Limited—Code of Business Conduct and Ethics as amended till November 2011—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 11.1 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2012 (File No. 001-33175) of Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, as filed with the SEC on May 25, 2012.

11.2		Sesa Sterlite Limited—Code of Business Conduct and Ethics as revised and approved by the board on January 28, 2014—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 11.2 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

11.3		Sesa Sterlite Limited—Code of Business Conduct and Ethics as revised and approved by the board on October 29, 2014—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 11.3 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

11.4		Vedanta Limited—Code of Business Conduct and Ethics as revised and approved by the board on April 29, 2015 and July 29, 2015—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 11.4 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

11.5		Vedanta Limited—Antitrust Guidance Notes—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 11.5 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

11.6		Vedanta Limited—Code of Business Conduct and Ethics as revised and approved by the board on October 28, 2016 —incorporated by reference to Exhibit 11.6 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2017 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2017.

12.1**		Certification by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 17 CFR 240. 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

12.2**		Certification by the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 17 CFR 240. 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

13.1**		Certification by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

13.2**		Certification by the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

15.1		Reserves evaluation report dated June 12, 2014 by DeGolyer and MacNaughton—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 15.2 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

15.2		Appraisal Report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton as of March 31, 2014 on the Proved Reserves of certain Fields in India owned by Cairn India Limited for Sesa Sterlite Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 15.3 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

15.3		Appraisal Report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton as of March 31, 2013 on the Proved Reserves of certain Fields in India owned by Cairn India Limited for Sesa Sterlite Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 15.4 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

15.4		Appraisal Report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton as of March 31, 2012 on the Proved Reserves of certain Fields in India owned by Cairn India Limited for Sesa Sterlite Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 15.5 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

263



15.5		Appraisal Report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton as of March 31, 2011 on the Proved Reserves of certain Fields in India owned by Cairn India Limited for Sesa Sterlite Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 15.6 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2014 (File No. 001-33175) of Sesa Sterlite Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2014.

15.6		Appraisal Report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton as of March 31, 2015 on the Proved Reserves of certain Fields in India owned by Cairn India Limited for Vedanta Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 15.6 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2015 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.

15.7		Appraisal Report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton as of March 31, 2016 on the Proved Reserves of certain Fields in India owned by Cairn India Limited for Vedanta Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 15.7 of the annual report on Form 20-F for fiscal year 2016 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 1, 2016.

15.8		Appraisal Report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton as of March 31, 2017 on the Proved Reserves of certain Fields in India owned by Cairn India Limited for Vedanta Limited—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 15.8 of the annual report on Form-20F for fiscal year 2017 (File No. 001-33175) of Vedanta Limited, as filed with the SEC on August 15, 2017.

15.9**		Appraisal Report by DeGolyer and MacNaughton as of March 31, 2018 on the Proved Reserves of certain Fields in India owned by Cairn India Limited (now Vedanta Limited - oil and gas business) for Vedanta Limited.

** Filed herewith

Notes:

The Company has not included as exhibits certain instruments with respect to its long-term debt, the amount of debt authorized under each of which does not exceed 10% of its total assets, and it agrees to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.

264

SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this Annual Report on its behalf.


VEDANTA LIMITED

By:		/s/ GR Arun Kumar
Name:		GR Arun Kumar
Title:		Whole Time Director and Chief Financial Officer

Date: July 31, 2018

265

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements


	Page(s)
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm		F-2
Consolidated Statements of Profit or Loss for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018		F-4
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018		F-5
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as at March 31, 2017 and 2018		F-6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018		F-7
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018		F-9
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements		F-12

F-1

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Vedanta Limited

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Vedanta Limited and subsidiaries (the Company) as of March 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of profit or loss, comprehensive income, cash flows and changes in equity for each of the two years in the period ended March 31, 2018, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at March 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended March 31, 2018, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated July 31, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ S.R. Batliboi & Co. LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2017.

Gurugram, India

July 31, 2018

F-2

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

Vedanta Limited

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of profit or loss, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows of Vedanta Limited and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) for the year ended March 31, 2016. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the results of operations and cash flows of Vedanta Limited and its subsidiaries for the year ended March 31, 2016, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

/s/ Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP

Gurugram, India

August 1, 2016

F-3

VEDANTA LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PROFIT OR LOSS

(In millions except share or per share amounts unless otherwise stated)


For the year ended March 31,		2016		2017		2018		2018
	Notes	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million) (Note 2)
Revenue	4		639,493		717,207		913,720		14,033
Cost of sales*			(875,756)		(533,989)		(655,908)		(10,074)

Gross profit / (loss)			(236,263)		183,218		257,812		3,959
Other operating income			4,785		5,186		5,373		83
Distribution expenses			(12,070)		(16,361)		(15,553)		(239)
Administration expenses			(25,274)		(19,299)		(24,101)		(370)

Operating profit / (loss)			(268,822)		152,744		223,531		3,433
Investment and other income	5		43,998		45,428		30,986		476
Finance and other costs	6		(59,584)		(61,600)		(141,182)		(2,168)

Profit / (loss) before tax			(284,408)		136,572		113,335		1,741
Income tax (expense) / benefit	7		103,060		(38,027)		(66,426)		(1,020)

Profit / (loss) for the year			(181,348)		98,545		46,909		721
Profit / (loss) attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent			(125,153)		55,033		13,705		210
Non-controlling interests			(56,195)		43,512		33,204		511

Profit / (loss) for the year			(181,348)		98,545		46,909		721

Earnings / (loss) per share	27
Basic			(42.21)		18.57		3.69		0.06
Diluted			(42.21)		18.56		3.69		0.06
Weighted average number of equity shares used in computing earnings per share
Basic			2,965,004,871		2,964,333,584		3,709,778,760		3,709,778,760
Diluted			2,965,004,871		2,965,560,871		3,717,466,311		3,717,466,311

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

*	Cost of sales for the year ended March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 includes net impairment (charge)/ reversal of ₹ (339,549) million, ₹ (1,162) million and ₹ 44,679 million ($ 686 million) respectively (Refer note 8a & 8b).

The Group’s (Refer note 1- Group overview) consolidated statements of profit or loss are presented disclosing expenses by function. The consolidated statements of profit or loss disclosing expenses presented by nature are in Note 32 (c).

F-4

VEDANTA LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In millions except share or per share amounts unless otherwise stated)


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million) (Note 2)
Profit / (loss) for the year		(181,348)		98,545		46,909		721
Other comprehensive income, net of income tax:

Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Re-measurement of defined benefit obligation*		(93)		(14)		101		2

Items that will be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations*		3,227		(3,466)		87,416		1,343

Gain on available-for-sale financial investments		170		263		900		14
Cash flow hedges*#		163		(16)		(102)		(2)

Total other comprehensive income for the year, net of income tax		3,467		(3,233)		88,315		1,357


Total Comprehensive Income / (loss) for the year		(177,881)		95,312		135,224		2,078


Total Comprehensive Income / (loss) attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent		(132,708)		54,292		101,275		1,556
Non-controlling interests		(45,173)		41,020		33,949		522

		(177,881)		95,312		135,224		2,078

*	Refer to Note 7 for tax related to each component of other comprehensive income / (loss)

#	Refer to Note 32(a) for amounts reclassified into consolidated statements of profit or loss for the year out of other comprehensive income.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-5

VEDANTA LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION


As at			March 31, 2017		March 31, 2018		March 31, 2018
	Notes		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million) (Note 2)
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment		8a		877,127		888,596		13,648
Exploration and evaluation assets		8b		98,852		159,305		2,447
Other intangible assets		8c		6,378		8,303		128
Leasehold land				3,594		3,706		57
Deferred tax assets		7		77,582		58,635		901
Financial assets investments		10		695		1,595		24
Derivative financial assets		23		38		—		—
Current tax asset		7		28,176		33,894		521
Other non-current assets		11		35,016		43,907		673

Total non-current assets				1,127,458		1,197,941		18,399

Current assets
Inventories		12		97,266		119,884		1,841
Current tax asset				136		146		2
Trade and other receivables		13		60,276		84,263		1,294
Short-term investments		14		524,685		315,996		4,854
Derivative financial assets		23		91		1,524		23
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		15		11,747		2,483		38
Cash and cash equivalents		16		97,202		42,192		648

Total current assets				791,403		566,488		8,700

Total assets				1,918,861		1,764,429		27,099

LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Short-term borrowings		17		413,126		313,700		4,818
Acceptances		18		113,304		94,173		1,446
Trade and other payables		19		285,794		256,058		3,933
Derivative financial liabilities		23		8,216		1,432		22
Retirement benefits		22		503		1,197		18
Provisions		20		1,131		1,435		22
Current tax liabilities				2,028		3,123		48

Total current liabilities				824,102		671,118		10,307

Net current assets / (liabilities)				(32,699)		(104,630)		(1,607)

Non-current liabilities
Long-term borrowings		17		332,654		267,888		4,114
Deferred tax liabilities		7		24,015		43,340		666
Retirement benefits		22		1,390		1,551		24
Provisions		20		19,233		22,029		338
Derivative financial liabilities		23		557		1,178		18
Other non-current liabilities		21		3,122		4,395		68

Total non-current liabilities				380,971		340,381		5,228

Total liabilities				1,205,073		1,011,499		15,535

Net assets				713,788		752,930		11,564

EQUITY
Share capital		25		3,718		3,718		57
Securities premium				190,452		190,452		2,925
Treasury shares				(1,034)		(2,607)		(40)
Share based payment reserve				1,548		1,773		27
Other components of equity				12,464		99,949		1,535
Retained earnings				369,390		302,281		4,643

Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent				576,538		595,566		9,147
Non-controlling interests				137,250		157,364		2,417

Total Equity				713,788		752,930		11,564

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-6

VEDANTA LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million) (Note 2)
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit / (loss) for the year		(181,348)		98,545		46,909		720
Adjustments to reconcile profit to net cash provided by operating activities:
Income tax (benefit) / expense recognised in profit or loss		(103,060)		38,027		66,426		1,020
Depreciation and amortisation		83,343		61,477		74,879		1,150
Impairment charge/ (reversal) of property, plant and equipment/ exploration and evaluation assets/ other assets		339,549		1,162		(44,679)		(686)
Provision for loss on assets under construction		—		—		2,513		39
Provision for doubtful debts/advances		2,368		345		1,237		19
Unsuccessful exploration costs written off		294		407		—		—
Fair value gain on financial assets held for trading		(31,244)		(32,630)		(16,530)		(254)
Share based payment expense		—		66		468		7
Loss on sale of property, plant and equipment, net		63		451		160		2
Exchange loss/ (gain), net		6,124		2,371		(171)		(3)
Inventory Written off		—		120		837		13
Interest, dividend income and bargain gain		(12,754)		(12,982)		(14,172)		(218)
Interest expense		55,915		59,413		59,302		911
Foreign currency translation reserve reclassified from equity to profit and loss relating to subsidiaries under liquidation		—		—		81,315		1,249
Changes in assets and liabilities:
(Increase) / decrease in trade and other receivables		22,910		18,176		(30,841)		(474)
Decrease/ (Increase) in inventories		6,476		(16,161)		(22,219)		(341)
(Increase) in other current and non-current assets		(1,645)		(14,181)		(4,694)		(72)
Increase in trade and other payable		40,072		23,384		37,550		577
(Decrease) in other current and non-current liabilities		(2,168)		(8,854)		(7,304)		(112)
Proceeds from short-term investments		1,019,940		1,032,613		1,025,920		15,757
Purchases of short-term investments		(1,070,637)		(935,851)		(828,411)		(12,723)

Cash generated from operations		174,198		315,898		428,495		6,581
Interest paid		(55,372)		(62,048)		(57,880)		(889)
Interest received		13,061		11,315		14,142		217
Dividends received		4		7		111		2
Income tax paid		(24,539)		(53,067)		(36,461)		(560)

Net cash from operating activities		107,352		212,105		348,407		5,351

Cash flows from investing activities
Acquisition of subsidiary		—		—		(8,585)		(132)
Purchases of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets		(54,642)		(52,517)		(72,493)		(1,113)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment		629		1,012		370		6
Exploration and evaluation assets		(5,831)		(1,234)		(256)		(4)
Loans repaid by related parties		25		—		—		—
Loans to related parties		(656)		0		—		—
Proceeds from short-term deposits		48,844		11,231		62,322		957
Purchases of short-term deposits		(31,705)		(36,349)		(37,740)		(580)
Acquisition of additional interests in subsidiaries		—		(40)		—		—
Net changes in restricted cash and cash equivalents		723		(2,013)		4,229		65

Net cash used in investing activities		(42,613)		(79,910)		(52,153)		(801)

Cash flows from financing activities
(Repayment of) / proceeds from working capital loan, net		2,130		6,123		(39,453)		(606)
Proceeds from acceptances		162,739		175,698		252,952		3,885
Repayment of acceptances		(160,982)		(163,134)		(272,086)		(4,179)
Proceeds from other short-term borrowings		415,541		720,647		42,384		651
Repayment of other short-term borrowings		(468,658)		(582,196)		(183,586)		(2,819)
Proceeds from long-term borrowings		115,657		88,466		82,708		1,270
Repayment of long-term borrowings		(39,595)		(71,743)		(74,734)		(1,148)
Loan from related parties		3,856		2,846		—		—
Loan repaid to related parties		(51,182)		(128,094)		—		—
Payment of dividends to equity holders of the parent		(17,358)		(5,189)		(144,344)		(2,217)

F-7


For the year ended March 31,	2016			2017			2018			2018
	(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)			(US dollars in million) (Note 2)
Payment of dividends to non-controlling interests, including dividend distribution tax		(14,862	)		(91,537	)		(19,307	)		(296	)
Purchase of Treasury Shares for stock options		—			(1,034)			(2,022)			(31)
Proceeds from erstwhile Cairn Stock Options		—			24			—			—
Exercise of Stock options		—			—			344			5

Net cash used in financing activities		(52,714)			(49,123)			(357,144)			(5,485)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		224			(299)			844			13
Net (decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents		12,249			82,773			(60,046)			(922)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year		8,621			20,870			103,643			1,592
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year¹		20,870			103,643			43,597			670
Supplementary disclosure of non-cash investing activities:

Payables for purchase of property, plant and equipment including exploration and evaluation assets		66,711			40,535			34,508			530

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

1.	For composition refer Note 15 and Note 16

F-8

VEDANTA LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY


	Attributable to equity holders of the parent
	Share capital		Securities premium		Translation of foreign operations		Available for sale financial investments		Cash flow hedges			Retained earnings*		Total		Non controlling interests		Total
Balance as at April 1, 2015		2,965		200,010		20,683		199		(189	)		337,451		561,119		467,489		1,028,608
Loss for the year		—		—		—		—		—			(125,153)		(125,153)		(56,195)		(181,348)
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations, net of tax¹		—		—		(7,813)		—		—			—		(7,813)		11,040		3,227
Movement in available for sale financial investments		—		—		—		170		—			—		170		—		170
Re-measurement of defined benefit obligation, net of tax¹		—		—		—		—		—			(65)		(65)		(28)		(93)
Net movement in fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax^1,2		—		—		—		—		153			—		153		10		163

Total comprehensive income / (loss) for the year		—		—		(7,813)		170		153			(125,218)		(132,708)		(45,173)		(177,881)

Change in Non controlling interests		—		—		—		—		—			—		—		356		356
Dividend		—		—		—		—		—			(17,358)		(17,358)		(57,676)³		(75,034)
Others						—							107		107		102		209

Balance as at March 31, 2016		2,965		200,010		12,870		369		(36)			194,982		411,160		365,098		776,258

*	Retained earnings mainly includes general reserve, debenture redemption reserve, preference share redemption reserve and capital reserve (Refer Note 25)

1	Refer to Note 7 for tax related to each component of other comprehensive income / (loss)

2	Refer to Note 32(a) for amounts reclassified into consolidated statements of profit or loss for the year out of other comprehensive income

3	Includes tax on dividend

F-9


	Attributable to equity holders of the parent
	Share capital		Securities premium		Treasury shares#		Share based payment reserve		Translation of foreign operations		Available for sale financial investments		Cash flow hedges		Retained earnings*		Total		Non controlling interests		Total
Balance as at April 1, 2016		2,965		200,010		—		—		12,870		369		(36)		194,982		411,160		365,098		776,258
Profit for the year		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		55,033		55,033		43,512		98,545
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations		—		—		—		—		(1,081)		—		—		—		(1,081)		(2,385)		(3,466)
Movement in available for sale financial investments		—		—		—		—		—		263		—		—		263		—		263
Re-measurement of defined benefit obligation, net of tax¹		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		(2)		(2)		(12)		(14)
Net movement in fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax^1,2		—		—		—		—		—		—		79		—		79		(95)		(16)

Total comprehensive income / (loss) for the year		—		—		—		—		(1,081)		263		79		55,031		54,292		41,020		95,312

Transferred to capital reserve pursuant to merger³		—		(9,558)		—		—		—		—		—		9,558		—		—		—
Purchase of treasury shares		—		—		(1,034)		—		—		—		—		—		(1,034)		—		(1,034)
Recognition of share based payment		—		—		—		66		—		—		—		—		66		—		66
Purchase of non-controlling interests—Cairn India Limited		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		(15)		(15)		(188)		(203)
Dividend		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		(70,918)		(70,918)		(55,165)⁴		(126,083)
Change in Non controlling interests³		753		—		—		1,482		—		—		—		180,752		182,987		(213,515)		(30,528)

Balance as at March 31, 2017		3,718		190,452		(1,034)		1,548		11,789		632		43		369,390		576,538		137,250		713,788

*	Retained earnings mainly includes general reserve, debenture redemption reserve, preference share redemption reserve and capital reserve (Refer Note 25)

#	Treasury share represents 3,984,256 equity shares (face value of ₹ 1 each) of the Company purchased by Vedanta Limited ESOP Trust pursuant to the Company’s stock option scheme as detailed in note 26.

1	Refer to Note 7 for tax related to each component of other comprehensive income / (loss)

2	Refer to Note 32(a) for amounts reclassified into consolidated statements of profit or loss for the year out of other comprehensive income

3	Refer Note 1 – Cairn India Limited Merger

4	Includes tax on dividend

F-10


	Attributable to equity holders of the parent
	Share capital		Securities premium		Treasury shares#		Share based payment reserve		Translation of foreign operations		Available for sale financial investments		Cash flow hedges		Retained earnings*		Total		Non controlling interests		Total
Balance as at April 1, 2017		3,718		190,452		(1,034)		1,548		11,789		632		43		369,390		576,538		137,250		713,788
Profit for the year		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		13,705		13,705		33,204		46,909
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations		—		—		—		—		86,732		—		—		—		86,732		684		87,416
Movement in available for sale financial investments		—		—		—		—		—		900		—		—		900		—		900
Re-measurement of defined benefit obligation, net of tax¹		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		85		85		16		101
Net movement in fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax^1,2		—		—		—		—		—		—		(147)		—		(147)		45		(102)

Total comprehensive income / (loss) for the year		—		—		—		—		86,732		900		(147)		13,790		101,275		33,949		135,224

Purchase of treasury shares		—		—		(2,022)		—		—		—		—				(2,022)		—		(2,022)
Stock options cancelled during the period		—		—		—		(29)		—		—		—		29		—		—		—
Recognition of share based payment		—		—		—		468		—		—		—		—		468		—		468
Exercise of stock options		—		—		449		(214)		—		—		—		109		344		—		344
Non-controlling interest on business combination³		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		736		736
Recognition of put option liability/ derecognition of non controlling interest³		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		(2,423)		(2,423)		(298)		(2,721)
Dividend		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		(78,614)		(78,614)		(14,273)⁴		(92,887)

Balance as at March 31, 2018		3,718		190,452		(2,607)		1,773		98,521		1,532		(104)		302,281		595,566		157,364		752,930

Balance as at March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)		57		2,925		(40)		27		1,513		24		(2)		4,643		9,147		2,417		11,564

*	Retained earnings mainly includes general reserve, debenture redemption reserve, preference share redemption reserve and capital reserve (Refer Note 25)

#	Treasury share represents 9,233,871 equity shares (face value of ₹ 1 each) of the Company purchased by Vedanta Limited ESOP Trust pursuant to the Company’s stock option scheme as detailed in note 26.

1	Refer to Note 7 for tax related to each component of other comprehensive income / (loss)

2	Refer to Note 32(a) for amounts reclassified into consolidated statements of profit / (loss) for the year out of other comprehensive income / (loss)

3	Refer Note 1 – Business Combination (Acquisitions of ASI) and note 21

4	Includes tax on dividend

F-11

VEDANTA LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Group overview -

Vedanta Limited (“the Company”) and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, the “Group” or “Vedanta Limited”) are principally engaged in business of iron ore mining, non-ferrous metals and mining (copper, aluminium and zinc), commercial power generation, port operations, exploration & production of oil & gas and glass substrate in India, Australia, Namibia, South Africa, Liberia, UAE, Ireland, South Korea and Taiwan. Vedanta Limited was incorporated on September 8, 1975 under the laws of the Republic of India and had its registered office at Tuticorin, Tamilnadu. The registered office of the Company has been changed to 1^st Floor, ‘C’ wing, Unit 103, Corporate Avenue, Atul Projects, Chakala, Andheri (East), Mumbai-400092, Maharashtra. Vedanta Limited’s shares are listed on National Stock Exchange and Bombay Stock Exchange in India. In June 2007, Vedanta Limited completed its initial public offering of American Depositary Shares, or ADS, each representing four equity shares, and listed its ADSs on the New York Stock Exchange. In July 2009, Vedanta Limited completed its follow-on offering of an additional 131,906,011 ADSs, each currently representing four equity shares, which are listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

On April 22, 2015, the Company (formerly known as Sesa Sterlite Limited) submitted to the SEC that its name has been changed to Vedanta Limited following the approval from the Registrar of Companies, Goa on April 21, 2015.

Cairn India Limited Merger

The Group’s oil and gas business was held by Cairn India Limited and its subsidiaries. During the year ended March 31, 2017, pursuant to the merger of Cairn India Limited with the Company (refer below), interests have been transferred to the Company and its subsidiaries.

Merger of Cairn India Limited with Vedanta Limited

The Company and Cairn India Limited, an entity under its control for last several years, had initially announced a scheme of merger between the two companies on June 14, 2015, terms whereof were amended on July 22, 2016 (“Scheme”). As per the terms of the Scheme, Cairn India Limited was to merge into the Company, which effectively meant that Vedanta was acquiring the entire non-controlling interests of Cairn India. Upon the merger becoming effective:

Non-controlling shareholders of Cairn India Limited were to receive one equity share in the Company of par value ₹ 1 each and four 7.5% Redeemable Preference Shares (redeemable after 18 months from issuance) in the Company with a par value of ₹ 10 each for each equity share held in Cairn India Limited.

No shares were to be issued to the Company or any of its subsidiaries for their shareholding in Cairn India Limited. This included shares held by Sesa Resources Limited in Cairn India Limited with a carrying value of ₹ 9,558 Million, the effects of cancellation of which was to be recorded in securities premium account.

The employees of Cairn India Limited who were holding stock options in Cairn India Limited were to be compensated either in cash or through issuance of stock options of the Company.

The authorised share capital of Cairn India Limited aggregating to ₹ 22,500 million was to be assumed by the Company, resulting in an increase in its authorised share capital from ₹ 51,620 Million (divided into 51,270 million equity shares of ₹ 1 each and 35 million preference shares of ₹ 10 each) to ₹ 74,120 million (divided into 44,020 million equity shares of ₹ 1 each and 3,010 million preference shares of ₹ 10 each).

All substantive approvals for effecting the merger of Cairn India Limited with the Company were received by March 27, 2017 and therefore the same has been accounted for in the financial year ended March 31, 2017. The Board of Directors of both the companies made the merger operative on April 11, 2017, whereafter Cairn India Limited ceased to exist.

Since non-controlling shareholders of Cairn India Limited have become the shareholders of the Company, non-controlling interest of ₹ 213,515 Million ($ 3,292 million) attributable to Cairn India Limited stands extinguished. Correspondingly, there is (a) an increase in equity share capital of ₹ 753 Million ($ 12 million) (representing par value of 752.5 million equity shares), borrowings of ₹ 30,100 Million ($ 464 million) (representing par value and fair value of redeemable preferences shares) and trade and other payables of ₹ 428 Million ($ 7 million) (representing cash compensation payable to stock option holders of Cairn India Limited), share based payment reserve of ₹ 1,482 million ($ 23 million) (representing employee stock options issued to stock option holders of Cairn India Limited) and other equity of ₹ 190,310 million ($ 2,935 million) and (b) a decrease in securities premium account by ₹ 9,558 million ($ 147 million). The net change in other equity represents the excess of fair value of equity shares issued over their par values and has been further adjusted to include the difference between the carrying value of non-controlling interests and the fair value of the consideration paid.

F-12

Businesss Combination (Acquisition of ASI)

On December 28, 2017, the Group acquired 51.6% equity stake in AvanStrate Inc. (ASI) for a cash consideration of ₹ 0.6 million ($ 9 million) and acquired debts for ₹ 9,640 million ($ 148 million). Additionally, a loan of ₹ 460 million ($ 7 million) was extended to ASI. ASI is involved in manufaturing of glass substrate. The financial results of ASI from the date of acquisition to March 31, 2018 have been included in the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

As per the shareholding agreement (SHA) entered with the other majority shareholder holding 46.6% in ASI, the Group has call option, conversion option to convert part of its debt given to ASI into equity of ASI as well as it has issued put option to the other majority shareholder. These are exercisable as per the terms mentioned in the SHA.

The transaction has been accounted for on a provisional basis under IFRS 3, as it relates to property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets, and the resultant bargain gain (net of acquisition cost) of ₹ 335 million as computed below has been recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss (refer note 5).

The fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of ASI as at the date of acquisition were provisionally estimated as below:


	Provisional Fair Value as at acquisition date (₹ in million)			Provisional Fair Value as at acquisition date (US dollars in million)*
Non-Current Assets
Property, Plant and Equipment		13,846			213
Capital work-in-progress		1,630			25
Other Intangible assets		2,048			31
Deferred tax assets		1,258			19
Other non-current assets		426			7
Total non-current assets		19,208			295
Current Assets
Inventories		1,383			21
Trade Receivables		1,657			25
Cash and cash equivalents		1,515			24
Other Current Assets		631			10
Total current assets		5,186			80
Total Assets (A)		24,394			375

Non-current liabilities
Borrowings (excluding borrowings from immediate parent)		6,308			97
Deffered tax liabilities		4,951			76
Other non-current liabilities		232			4
Total non-current liabilities		11,491			177
Other current liabilities		1,280			20
Total Liabilities (B)		12,771			197
Net Assets (A-B)		11,623			178

Satisfied by:
Fair value of total purchase consideration		10,100			155

Non-Controlling interest on acquisition (48.4% of net assets after adjustment of fair value of borrowings from immediate parent of ₹ 10,100 million)		736			11

Bargain Gain		787			12

Acquisition cost		(452	)		(7	)

*	translated into US dollars at the noon buying rate of $1 = ₹ 65.11 as at March 31, 2018 (Refer note 2 – convenience translation)

F-13

The gross carrying amount of trade receivables equals the fair value of trade receivables. None of the trade receivables was impaired and the full contractual amounts were expected to be realised. Property, plant and equipment have been valued using cost approach - cost of reproduction new (CRN) method. For estimating CRN, appropriate indices were used to develop trend factors that have been applied on the acquisition/historical costs of the different assets over the period during which the asset has been commissioned or in other words life spent. The estimated CRN was further adjusted for applicable physical deterioration to arrive at fair value. The physical deterioration was based on the estimated age and remaining useful life.

Since the date of acquisition, ASI has contributed ₹ 1,502 million to the Group revenue and has reduced the profit before tax by ₹ 697 million (including impact of borrowings from immediate parent) for the year ended March 31, 2018. If ASI had been acquired at the beginning of the year, the revenue of the Group would have been ₹ 920,615 million and the profit before tax of the Group would have been ₹ 113,066 million.

Non-controlling interest has been measured at the non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of ASI’s identifiable net assets.

Business Overview -

Vedanta Limited and its consolidated subsidiaries is a diversified natural resource company engaged in exploring, extracting and processing minerals and oil and gas. The Group engages in the exploration, production and sale of zinc, lead, silver, copper, aluminium, iron ore and oil and gas and have a presence across India, South Africa, Namibia, Ireland, Australia, Liberia and UAE. The Group is also in the business of commercial power generation and port operations in India and manufacturing of glass substrate in South Korea and Taiwan.

Vedanta Limited is majority owned by Twin Star Holdings Limited (“Twin Star”), Finsider International Company Limited (“Finsider”), West Globe Limited (“West Globe”) and Welter Trading Limited (“Welter”) which are in turn wholly-owned subsidiaries of Vedanta Resources Plc, a public limited company incorporated in the United Kingdom and listed on the London Stock Exchange. Twin Star, Finsider, West Globe and Welter held 37.1%, 10.8%, 1.2% and 1.0% respectively of Vedanta Limited equity as at March 31, 2018.

The Group’s zinc India business is owned and operated by Hindustan Zinc Limited (“HZL”) in which it has a 64.9% interest as at March 31, 2018. HZL’s operations include five lead-zinc mines, one rock phosphate mine, four hydrometallurgical zinc smelters, two lead smelters, one pyro metallurgical lead-zinc smelter, eight sulphuric acid plants, a silver refinery and six captive power plants in the State of Rajasthan in Northwest India and one zinc ingot melting and casting plant at Haridwar and one silver refinery, one zinc ingot melting and casting plant and one lead ingot melting and casting plant at Pantnagar in the State of Uttarakhand in North India.

The Group’s zinc international business is comprised of Skorpion mine and refinery in Namibia operated through THL Zinc Namibia Holdings (Proprietary) Limited (“Skorpion”), Lisheen mine in Ireland operated through Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited (“Lisheen”) and Black Mountain Mining (Proprietary) Limited (“BMM”), whose assets include the operational Black Mountain mine and the Gamsberg mine project located in South Africa. The Group has 100% interest in Skorpion, 74% interest in BMM and 100% interest in Lisheen (which owns the Lisheen mine in Ireland that ceased operations in December 2015) as at March 31, 2018.

The Group’s oil and gas business is owned and operated by the Company (prior to merger this was owned and operated by erstwhile Cairn India Limited) and its subsidiaries Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited and Cairn South Africa Proprietary Limited. The Group has a diversified asset base with six blocks, one in state of Rajasthan in India, one on the west coast of India, three on the east coast of India and one in South Africa.

The Group’s iron ore business is owned by the Company and by two wholly owned subsidiaries, Sesa Resources Limited and Sesa Mining Corporation Private Limited, and consists of exploration, mining and processing of iron ore, pig iron and metallurgical coke and generation of power. The mining operations are carried out at Codli mine, Bicholim mine, Surla mine and the Sonshi mines in state of Goa and Narrain mines situated at state of Karnataka in India. The business also has a Metallurgical Coke and Pig Iron plant in state of Goa in India. Iron ore business also has a power plant in state of Goa in India for captive use. The Group’s iron ore business includes Western Cluster Limited (“WCL”) in Liberia which has iron ore assets and is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Group. WCL’s assets include development rights to western cluster and a network of iron ore deposits in West Africa. Pursuant to an order passed by Hon’ble Supreme Court of India on February 07, 2018 all mining operations in the State of Goa stopped with effect from March 16, 2018. The Group has recognised an impairment charge on its iron ore assets in Goa during the current year. (Refer note 8(a)).

F-14

The Group’s copper business is owned and operated by the Company, Copper Mines of Tasmania Pty Ltd (“CMT”) and Fujairah Gold FZC and is principally one of custom smelting and includes a copper smelter, a refinery, a phosphoric acid plant, a sulphuric acid plant, a copper rod plant and three captive power plants at Tuticorin in Southern India, and a refinery and two copper rod plants at Silvassa in Western India. In addition, the Group owns and operates the Mt. Lyell copper mine in Tasmania, Australia through its subsidiary, CMT and a precious metal refinery and copper rod plant in Fujairah through its subsidiary Fujairah Gold FZC in the UAE. The operations of Mt Lyell copper mine was suspended in January 2014 following a mud slide incident and the operations at Mt Lyell copper mine have been put into care and maintenance since July 9, 2014 following a rock fall incident in June 2014.

The Group’s copper business has received an order from Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) on April 09, 2018, whereby TNPCB has rejected the Company’s application for renewal of consent to operate under the Air and Water Acts for the 400,000 tpa copper smelter plant in Tuticorin for want of further clarification and consequently the operations were suspended. The Company has filed an appeal with TNPCB Appellate authority against the said order. During the pendency of the appeal, TNPCB through its order dated May 23, 2018 ordered for disconnection of electricity supply and closure of our copper smelter plant. Post such order, the state government on May 28, 2018 ordered the permanent closure of the plant. The Company is taking all the necessary steps to restart its operations in Tuticorin.

The Group’s aluminium business is owned and operated by the Company and by Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (“BALCO”) in which it has a 51% interest as at March 31, 2018. The aluminium operations include a refinery and a 75 MW captive power plant at Lanjigarh and a smelter and a 1215 MW captive power plant at Jharsuguda both situated in the State of Orissa in India. The pots are in the stage of commissioning in the 1.25 mtpa Jharsuguda-II Aluminium smelter with 879 pots having been commissioned by March 31, 2018. Refinery expansion project being set up at Lanjigarh was on hold since October 20, 2010, as the MoEF had directed the Company to hold from further expansion. However, environment clearance (EC) for the Lanjigarh expansion project has been received in the quarter ending December 31, 2015. Currently, the Company continues to explore the feasibility of expanding the alumina refinery capacity, from 2 to 4 million and then up to 6 million tonnes per annum, subject to bauxite availability and regulatory approvals. BALCO’s partially integrated aluminium operations are comprised of two bauxite mines, 1410 MW power plant, smelting and fabrication facilities in central India.The BALCO-II smelter was commissioned, with all 336 pots operational in August 2016.

The Group’s power business is owned and operated by the Company, BALCO, HZL, MEL and Talwandi Sabo Power Limited (“TSPL”), which are engaged in the power generation business in India. The Company’s power operations include 2,400 MW (four units of 600 MW each) thermal coal-based commercial power facility at Jharsuguda in the State of Orissa in Eastern India and all four units of 600 MW are currently operational. The Company had petitioned to OERC to convert the 600 MW X 4 IPP into Captive power plant (CPP). OERC issued an order of conversion of Unit 1, 3 & 4 into CPP with effect from April 1, 2015 and retained the IPP status of Unit 2 to fulfill the obligation under PPA with GRIDCO. BALCO has thermal coal based power plant with total capacity of 600MW, two units of 300 MW each, at Korba and are referred to as IPP 600 MW. The first 300 MW unit of the IPP 600 MW was capitalized on August 1, 2015 after the successful completion of trial runs. The second unit has been commissioned and started commercial production from May 1, 2016. TSPL had signed a power purchase agreement with the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (“PSPCL”) for the establishment of 1,980 MW (three units of 660 MW each) thermal coal-based commercial power facilities and the first 660 MW unit of the Talwandi Sabo power plant (TSPL) was capitalized in financial year 2015, second 660 MW unit was capitalized on December 1, 2015 after the successful completion of trial runs and the third 660MW unit at TSPL was capitalized on September 1, 2016. The Power business also includes the 274 MW of wind power plants commissioned by HZL and 106.5 MW power plant at MALCO Energy Limited (“MEL”) situated near Mettur Dam in the State of Tamil Nadu in southern India (presently under care and maintenance).

The Group’s other activities include Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited (“VGCB”) and Maritime Ventures Private Limited (”MVPL”) in which the Group owns a 100% interest. Vizag port project includes mechanisation of coal handling facilities and upgradation of general cargo berth for handling coal at the outer harbor of Visakhapatnam port on the east coast of India. MVPL is engaged in the business of rendering logistics and other allied services inter alia rendering stevedoring, and other allied services in Ports and other allied sectors. VGCB commenced operations in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013. In December 2017, the Company through its wholly owned subsidiary, acquired 51.6% equity stake in AvanStrate (‘ASI’). ASI is involved in manufacturing of glass substrate. (Refer note 1 – Business Combination (Acquisition of ASI)).

F-15

These consolidated financial statements of the Group were authorized for issuance by Vedanta Limited’s board of directors on July 31, 2018.

F-16

2. Basis of preparation of financial statements

Basis of preparation

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), as issued by International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”).

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies, set out below and were consistently applied to all periods presented unless otherwise stated.

Basis of measurement

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost convention and on an accrual basis, except for derivative financial instruments, short-term investments and available-for-sale financial investments which are remeasured at fair values at the end of each reporting period as explained in the accounting policies below.

Application of new and revised standards:

The Group has adopted with effect from April 1, 2017, the following new amendment and pronouncements. Their adoption has not had any significant impact on the amounts reported in the financial statements.

IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows

Narrow-scope amendments: The amendments introduce an additional disclosure that will enable users of financial statements to evaluate changes in liabilities arising from financing activities. The required disclosure is given in note 17.

Amendments to IAS 12

Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for Unrealised Losses: These amendments clarify that unrealised losses on debt instruments measured at fair value for financial reporting purposes but at cost for tax purposes can give rise to a deductible temporary difference and how such a temporary difference should be assessed in determining whether a deferred tax asset should be recognised. This does not have any significant impact on the amounts reported in the financial statements.

Amendments to IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities issued in the Annual Improvements Cycle 2014-2016

The amendments to IFRS 12 introduced in the 2014-2016 annual improvement cycle clarify that all requirements of that Standard (other than those covered by an existing exemption from disclosure of summarised financial information on interests in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates) apply to interests classified as held for sale or discontinued operations in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations. This does not have any impact on the financial statements.

The Group has not early adopted any amendments, standards or interpretations that have been issued but are not yet effective.

Going concern

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the going concern basis of accounting.

Convenience translation

The consolidated financial statements are presented in Indian Rupee (₹), the presentation currency of the Company (Also refer note 3S). Solely for the convenience of readers, the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended March 31, 2018 have been translated into US dollars (“$”) at the noon buying rate of $ 1.00 = ₹ 65.11 in the City of New York for cable transfers of Indian Rupee as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on March 30, 2018. No representation is made that the Indian Rupee amounts represent US dollar amounts or have been, could have been or could be converted into US dollars at such a rate or any other rate.

F-17

3. Significant accounting policies –

A. Basis of consolidation

Subsidiaries:

The consolidated financial statements incorporate the results of the Company and all its subsidiaries, being the entities that it controls. Control is evidenced where the Group has power over the investee or is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. Power is demonstrated through existing rights that give the ability to direct relevant activities, which significantly affect the entity returns.

The financial statements of subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting year as the parent company. Where necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to align the accounting policies in line with accounting policies of the Group.

For non-wholly owned subsidiaries, a share of the profit / loss for the financial year and net assets is attributed to the non-controlling interests as shown in the consolidated statements of profit or loss, consolidated statements of comprehensive income and consolidated statements of financial position.

Liability for put option issued to non-controlling interests which do not grant present access to ownership interest to the Group is recognised at present value of the redemption amount, and is reclassified from equity. At the end of each reporting period, the non-controlling interests subject to put option is derecognised and the difference between the amount derecognised and present value of the redemption amount, which is recorded as a financial liability, is accounted for as an equity transaction.

For acquisitions of additional interests in subsidiaries, where there is no change in control, the Group recognises a reduction to the non-controlling interest of the respective subsidiary with the difference between this figure and the cash paid, inclusive of transaction fees, being recognised in equity. In addition, upon dilution of controlling interests the difference between the cash received from sale or listing of the subsidiary shares and the increase to non-controlling interest is also recognised in equity. The results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed off during the year are included in the consolidated statements of profit or loss from the effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as appropriate.

Intra-group balances and transactions, and any unrealized profit arising from intra-group transactions are eliminated. Unrealized losses are eliminated unless costs cannot be recovered.

Joint arrangements

A Joint arrangement is an arrangement of which two or more parties have joint control. Joint control is considered when there is contractually agreed sharing of control of an arrangement, which exists only when decisions about the relevant activities require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control. Investments in joint arrangements are classified as either joint operations or joint venture. The classification depends on the contractual rights and obligations of each investor, rather than the legal structure of the joint arrangement. A joint operation is a joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control of the arrangement, have rights to the assets, and obligations for the liabilities, relating to the arrangement. A joint venture is a joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control of the arrangement have rights to the net assets of the arrangement.

The Group has joint operations within its Oil and gas segment and participates in several unincorporated joint operations which involve the joint control of assets used in oil and gas exploration and producing activities. The Group accounts for its share of assets and income and expenditure of joint ventures in which it holds an interest. Liabilities in unincorporated joint ventures, where the Group is the Operator, is accounted for at gross values (including share of other partners) with a corresponding receivable from the venture partners. These have been included in the consolidated financial statements under the appropriate headings

B. Investments in associates

Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method. An associate is an entity over which the Group is in a position to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies. Goodwill arising on the acquisition of associates is included in the carrying value of investments in associate. Investment in associates is initially recorded at the cost to the Group and then, in subsequent periods, the carrying value is adjusted to reflect the Group’s share of the associate’s consolidated post-acquisition profits or losses, other changes to the associate’s net assets and is further adjusted for impairment losses, if any. The consolidated statements of profit or loss and consolidated statements of comprehensive income include the Group’s share of associate’s results, except where the associate is generating losses, share of such losses in excess of the Group’s interest in that associate are not recognised. Losses recognised under the equity method in excess of the Group’s investment in ordinary shares are applied to the other components of the Group’s interest that forms part of Group’s net investment in the associate in the reverse order of their seniority (i.e. priority in liquidation).

F-18

If the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds, its interests in the associate, the Group discontinues the recognition of further losses. Additional losses are provided for, only to the extent that the Group has incurred legal or constructive obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate.

Unrealised gains arising on transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated against the investment to the extent of the Group’s interest in the associate. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of associates have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

C. Revenue recognition

Sale of goods/ rendering of services

Revenues are measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of discounts, volume rebates, outgoing sales taxes, goods and service tax, excise duty and other indirect taxes.

Revenues from sales of goods are recognised when all significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods sold are transferred to the customer which usually is on delivery of the goods to the shipping agent. Revenues from sale of by-products are included in revenue.

Certain of the Group’s sales contracts provide for provisional pricing based on the price on The London Metal Exchange (“LME”), as specified in the contract, when shipped. Final settlement of the price is based on the applicable price for a specified future period. The Group’s provisionally priced sales are marked to market using the relevant forward prices for the future period specified in the contract and is adjusted in revenue.

Revenue from oil, gas and condensate sales represent the Group’s share of oil, gas and condensate production, recognised on a direct entitlement basis, when significant risks and rewards of ownership are transferred to the buyers. Direct entitlement basis represents entitlement to variable physical volumes of hydrocarbons, representing recovery of the costs incurred and a stipulated share of the production remaning after such cost recovery. The stipulated share of production is arrived at after reducing government’s share of profit petroleum which is accounted for when the obligation (legal or constructive), in respect of the same arises.

Revenue from sale of power is recognised when delivered and measured based on rates as per bilateral contractual agreements with buyers and at rate arrived at based on the principles laid down under the relevant Tariff Regulations as notified by the regulatory bodies, as applicable.

Where the Group acts as a port operator, revenues and costs relating to each construction contract of service concession arrangements are recognised over the period of each arrangement only to the extent of costs incurred that are probable of recovery. Revenues and costs relating to operating phase of the port contract are measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the services provided.

Revenue from rendering of services is recognised on the basis of work performed.

Interest income

Interest income from debt instruments is recognised using the effective interest rate method. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of the financial asset to the gross carrying amount of a financial asset. When calculating the effective interest rate, the Group estimates the expected cash flows by considering all the contractual terms of the financial instrument (for example, prepayment, extension, call and similar options) but does not consider the expected credit losses.

F-19

Dividends

Dividend income is recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss only when the right to receive payment is established, provided it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the dividend will flow to the Group, and the amount of the dividend can be measured reliably.

D. Business combination

Business acquisitions are accounted for under the purchase method. The results of subsidiaries acquired or sold during the year are consolidated for the periods from, or to, the date on which control is passed. The acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities that meet the conditions for recognition under IFRS 3, are recognised at their fair value at the acquisition date, except certain assets and liabilities required to be measured as per the applicable standards.

Excess of fair value of purchase consideration and the acquisition date non-controlling interest over the acquisition date fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recognised as goodwill. Goodwill arising on acquisitions is reviewed for impairment annually. Where the fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities exceed the cost of acquisition, the Group re-assesses whether it has correctly identified all of the assets acquired and all of the liabilities assumed and reviews the procedures used to measure the amounts to be recognised at the acquisition date. If the reassessment still results in an excess of the fair value of net assets acquired over the aggregate consideration transferred, then the surplus is credited to the consolidated statements of profit or loss in the period of acquisition. Where it is not possible to complete the determination of fair values by the date on which the first post-acquisition financial statements are approved, a provisional assessment of fair value is made and any adjustments required to those provisional fair values are finalised within 12 months of the acquisition date.

The Group makes adjustments to the provisional fair value amounts recognised at the date of acquisition to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have affected the measurement of the amounts recognised as of that date. The Group applies the measurement period adjustments retrospectively to the consolidated financial statements to reflect the measurement period adjustments as retrospectively recorded on the date of the acquisition as if measurement period adjustments had been recorded initially at the date of acquisition.

Any non-controlling interest in an acquiree is measured at fair value or as the non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquiree’s net identifiable assets. This accounting choice is made on a transaction by transaction basis.

Acquisition expenses are charged to consolidated statements of profit or loss.

If the Group acquires a group of assets in a company that does not constitute a business combination in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations, the cost of the acquired group of identifiable assets or equity is allocated to the individual assets acquired based on their relative fair value.

Common Control transactions

A business combination involving entities or businesses under common control is a business combination in which all of the combining entities or businesses are ultimately controlled by the same party or parties both before and after the business combination and the control is not transitory. The transactions between entities under common control are scoped out of IFRS 3 and there is no authoritative literature for these transactions under IFRS. As a result, the Group adopted accounting principles similar to the pooling-of-interest method based on the predecessor values. The assets and liabilities of the acquired entity are recognised at the book values recorded in the ultimate parent entity’s consolidated financial statements. The components of equity of the acquired companies are added to the same components within Group equity except that any share capital and investments in the books of the acquiring entity is cancelled and the differences, if any, is adjusted in the opening retained earnings/ capital reserve. The Company’s shares issued in consideration for the acquired companies are recognised from the moment the acquired companies are included in these financial statements and the financial statements of the commonly controlled entities would be combined, retrospectively, as if the transaction had occurred at the beginning of the earliest reporting period presented. However, the prior years’ comparative information is only adjusted for periods during which the entities were under common control.

F-20

E (a) Property, plant and equipment

(i) Mining Properties and leases - The costs of mining properties, which include the costs of acquiring and developing mining properties and mineral rights, are capitalised as property, plant and equipment under the heading “Mining properties” in the year in which they are incurred.

When a decision is taken that a mining property is viable for commercial production (i.e. when the Group determines that the mining property will provide sufficient and sustainable return relative to the risks and the Group decided to proceed with the mine development), all further pre-production primary development expenditure other than land, buildings, plant and equipment is capitalised as part of the cost of the mining property until the mining property is capable of commercial production.

The stripping cost incurred during the production phase of a surface mine is deferred to the extent the current period stripping cost exceeds the average period stripping cost over the life of mine and recognised as an asset if such cost provides a benefit in terms of improved access to ore in future periods and certain criteria are met. When the benefit from the stripping costs are realised in the current period, the stripping costs are accounted for as the cost of inventory. If the costs of inventory produced and the stripping activity asset are not separately identifiable, a relevant production measure is used to allocate the production stripping costs between the inventory produced and the stripping activity asset. The Company uses the expected volume of waste compared with the actual volume of waste extracted for a given value of ore/ mineral production for the purpose of determining the cost of the stripping activity asset.

Deferred stripping cost are included in mining properties within property, plant and equipment and disclosed as a part of mining properties. After initial recognition, the stripping activity asset is depreciated on a unit of production method over the expected useful life of the identified component of the ore body.

In circumstances, where a mining property is abandoned, the cumulative capitalized costs relating to the property are written off in the period in which it occurs i.e. when the Group determines that the mining property will not provide sufficient and sustainable returns relative to the risks and the Group decides not to proceed with the mine development.

Commercial reserves are proved and probable reserves. Changes in the commercial reserves affecting unit of production calculations are dealt with prospectively over the revised remaining reserves.

(ii) Oil and gas assets- (developing/producing assets)

For oil and gas assets a successful efforts based accounting policy is followed. Costs incurred prior to obtaining the legal rights to explore an area are expensed immediately to the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

All costs incurred after the technical feasibility and commercial viability of producing hydrocarbons has been demonstrated are capitalised within property, plant and equipment—development/producing assets on a field-by-field basis. Subsequent expenditure is capitalised only where it either enhances the economic benefits of the development/producing asset or replaces part of the existing development/producing asset. Any remaining costs associated with the part replaced are expensed.

Net proceeds from any disposal of development/producing assets are credited against the previously capitalised cost. A gain or loss on disposal of a development/producing asset is recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss to the extent that the net proceeds exceed or are less than the appropriate portion of the net capitalised costs of the asset.

(iii) Other property, plant and equipment

The initial cost of property, plant and equipment comprises its purchase price, including import duties and non-refundable purchase taxes, and any directly attributable costs of bringing an asset to working condition and location for its intended use. It also includes the initial estimate of the costs of dismantling and removing the item and restoring the site on which it is located. If significant parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, then they are accounted for as separate items (major components) of property, plant and equipment. All other expenses on existing property, plant and equipment, including day-to-day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred. Major inspection and overhaul expenditure is capitalized, if recognition criteria are met.

Gains and losses on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment computed as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset is included in the consolidated statements of profit or loss when the asset is derecognised.

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(iv) Assets under construction

Assets under construction are capitalised in the assets under construction account. At the point when an asset is capable of operating in the manner intended by management, the cost of construction is transferred to the appropriate category of property, plant and equipment. Costs (net of income) associated with the commissioning of an asset and any obligations for decommissioning costs are capitalised until the period of commissioning has been completed and the asset is ready for its intended use.

(v) Depreciation, depletion and amortisation expense

Mining properties and other assets in the course of development or construction and freehold land are not depreciated.

•

Mining properties:

The capitalised mining properties are amortised on a unit-of-production basis over the total estimated remaining commercial proved and probable reserves of each property or Group of properties and are subject to impairment review. Costs used in the unit of production calculation comprise the net book value of capitalized costs plus the estimated future capital expenditure required to access the commercial reserves. Changes in the estimates of commercial reserves or future capital expenditure are dealth with prospectively.

•

Leasehold land and buildings

Leasehold land and buildings are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease or, if shorter, their useful economic life

•

Oil and gas assets:

All expenditures carried within each field are amortised from the commencement of production on a unit of production basis, which is the ratio of oil and gas production in the period to the estimated quantities of commercial reserves at the end of the period plus the production in the period, generally on a field-by-field basis or group of fields which are reliant on common infrastructure.

Commercial reserves are proven and probable oil and gas reserves, which are defined as the estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids which geological, geophysical and engineering data demonstrate with a specified degree of certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs and which are considered commercially producible.

Costs used in the unit of production calculation comprise the net book value of capitalised costs plus the estimated future field development costs required to access commercial reserves. Changes in the estimates of commercial reserves or future field development costs are dealt with prospectively.

•

Other assets:

Depreciation on Property, plant and equipment is calculated using the straight-line method (SLM) to allocate their cost, net of their residual values, over their estimated useful lives determined by the management. Management’s assessment of useful life takes into account, interalia, the nature of the assets, the estimated usage of the assets, the operating conditions of the assets, past history of replacement and maintenance support.

Estimated useful life of assets are as follows:


Buildings:
— Operations and administration			6-60 years
Plant and equipment			15-40 years
Others:
- Office equipment and fixtures			3-10 years
- Motor vehicles			8-10 years

Major inspection and overhaul costs are depreciated over the estimated life of the economic benefit to be derived from such costs. The carrying amount of the remaining previous overhaul cost is charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss if the next overhaul is undertaken earlier than the previously estimated life of the economic benefit.

The Group reviews the residual value and useful life of an asset at least at each financial year-end and, if expectations differ from previous estimates, the change is accounted for as a change in accounting estimate.

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(b) Exploration and evaluation assets

Exploration and evaluation expenditure incurred prior to obtaining the mining right or the legal right to explore are expensed as incurred.

Exploration and evaluation expenditure incurred after obtaining the mining right or the legal right to explore are capitalised as Exploration and evaluation assets (intangible assets) and stated at cost less impairment, if any. Exploration and evaluation assets are transferred to property, plant and equipment when the technical feasibility and commercial viability has been determined. Exploration and evaluation assets are assessed for impairment when facts and circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of an exploration and evaluation asset may exceed its recoverable amount. Impairment loss, if any, is recognised prior to reclassification.

Exploration expenditure includes all direct and allocated indirect expenditure associated with finding specific mineral resources which includes depreciation and applicable operating costs of related support equipment and facilities and other costs of exploration activities:

a. Acquisition costs - costs associated with acquisition of licenses and rights to explore, including related professional fees.

b. General exploration costs - costs of surveys and studies, rights of access to properties to conduct those studies (e.g., costs incurred for environment clearance, defense clearance, etc.), and salaries and other expenses of geologists, geophysical crews and other personnel conducting those studies.

c. Costs of exploration drilling and equipping exploration and appraisal wells.

Expenditure incurred on the acquisition of a license interest is initially capitalised on a license-by-license basis. Costs are held, undepleted, within exploration and evaluation assets until such time as the exploration phase on the license area is complete or commercial reserves have been discovered.

Exploration expenditure incurred in the process of determining oil and gas exploration targets is capitalised within “Exploration and evaluation assets” (intangible assets) and subsequently allocated to drilling activities. Exploration drilling costs are initially capitalised on a well-by-well basis until the success or otherwise of the well has been established. The success or failure of each exploration effort is judged on a well-by-well basis. Following appraisal of successful exploration wells, if commercial reserves are established and technical feasibility for extraction demonstrated, then the related capitalised exploration costs are transferred into a single field cost center within property, plant and equipment—development/producing assets after testing for impairment. Where results of exploration drilling indicate the presence of hydrocarbons which are ultimately not considered commercially viable, all related costs are written off to the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Net proceeds from any disposal of an exploration asset are initially credited against the previously capitalised costs. Any surplus/ deficit is recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

(c) Other intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The Group recognises port concession rights as “Intangible Assets” arising from a service concession arrangement, in which the grantor controls or regulates the services provided and the prices charged, and also controls any significant residual interest in the infrastructure such as property, plant and equipment, irrespective whether the infrastructure is existing infrastructure of the grantor or the infrastructure is constructed or purchased by the Group as part of the service concession arrangement. Such an intangible asset is recognised by the Group initially at cost determined as the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the construction service delivered and is capitalised when the project is complete in all respects. Port concession rights are amortised on straight line basis over the balance of license period. The concession period is 30 years from the date of the award.

Software is amortized over the estimated useful life of five years. Amounts paid for securing mining rights are amortized over the period of the mining lease ranging from16-25 years. Technological know-how and acquired brand are amortised over the estimated useful life of ten years.

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The amortisation period and the amortisation method are reviewed at least at each financial year end. If the expected useful life of the asset is different from previous estimates, the change is accounted for prospectively as a change in accounting estimate.

F. Non-current assets held for sale

Non-current assets and disposal groups are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. This condition is regarded as met only when the sale is highly probable and the asset (or disposal group) is available for immediate sale in its present condition. Management must be committed to the sale which should be expected to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year from the date of classification.

Non-current assets and disposal groups classified as held for sale are not depreciated and are measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell. Such assets and disposal groups are presented separately on the face of the consolidated statements of financial position.

G. Financial instruments

(i) Non-derivative financial assets

The Group initially recognises loans and receivables and deposits at fair value plus transaction cost on the date that they are originated.

The Group derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows on the financial asset in a transaction in which substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the consolidated statements of financial position when, and only when, the Group has a legal right to offset the amounts and intends either to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

The Group has the following non-derivative financial assets: financial asset investments, short-term investments, cash and cash equivalents, loans and receivables.

(a) Financial asset investments

Financial asset investments that are neither classified as held for trading nor designated as fair value through profit or loss are classified as available-for-sale and are recorded at its fair value plus transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of financial asset investments and then remeasured at subsequent reporting dates to fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on financial asset investments are recognised directly in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Upon disposal or impairment of the investments, the gains and losses in other comprehensive income are reclassified into the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Investments in unquoted equity instruments that do not have a market price and whose fair value cannot be reliably measured are measured at cost. Equity investments are recorded in non-current assets unless they are expected to be sold within one year.

(b) Short-term investments

Short-term investments represent short-term marketable securities and other bank deposits with an original maturity of more than three months. These are highly liquid investments that are readily convertible into cash which are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value and held for the purpose of meeting short-term cash commitments.

Short-term marketable securities are categorized as held for trading and are initially recognised at fair value with any gains or losses arising on re-measurement recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Other bank deposits are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

(c) Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated statements of financial position and cash flow statement comprise cash at bank and in hand, and short-term deposits which have a maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition, that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value and are unrestricted as to withdrawal and usage. Additionally, cash and cash equivalents for the purposes of cash flow statements includes restricted cash balance kept in a specified bank account towards unpaid dividend to be utilized solely for the purposes of payment of dividends.

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Restricted cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated statements of financial position comprise cash at bank and in hand, and short-term deposits which have a maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition, and are restricted as to withdrawal and usage.

(d) Loans and receivables

Trade receivables, loans, and other receivables that have fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market are classified as ‘loans and receivables’. Trade receivables are stated at their transaction value as reduced by appropriate allowances for estimated irrecoverable amounts.

Loans and other receivables are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment. Interest income is recognised by applying the effective interest rate (EIR) method.

(ii) Non-derivative financial liabilities

The Group initially recognises debt securities issued on the date that they are originated. All other financial liabilities are recognised initially on the trade date at which the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

The Group derecognises a financial liability when its contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled or expire. The difference between the carrying amount of the financial liabilities derecognised and consideration paid and payable is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit or loss.

The Group has the following non-derivative financial liabilities: Borrowings, Foreign currency convertible notes, trade and other payables.

(a) Borrowings

Interest bearing loans and borrowings are initially recorded at the fair value, net of directly attributable transaction costs. After initial recognition, interest bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the EIR method.

Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account the finance charges, including premiums payable on settlement or redemption and direct issue costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortisation is included in finance costs in the consolidated statements of profit or loss. The unamortised portion is classified with the carrying amount of debt.

(b) Foreign currency convertible notes

Convertible notes issued in foreign currency are convertible at the option of the holder into ordinary shares of the Group according to the terms of the issue. The conversion option which is not settled by exchanging a fixed amount of cash for a fixed number of shares is accounted for separately from the liability component as derivative and initially accounted for at fair value. The liability component is recognised initially at the difference between the fair value of the note and the fair value of the conversion option. Directly attributable notes issue costs are allocated to the liability component and the conversion option (expensed off immediately) in proportion to their initial carrying amounts.

Subsequent to initial recognition, the liability component is measured at amortised cost using the EIR method. The conversion option is subsequently measured at fair value at each reporting date, with changes in fair value recognised in consolidated statements of profit or loss. The conversion option is presented together with the related liability.

(c) Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables are recognised at their transaction cost, which is its fair value, and subsequently measured at amortised cost.

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(iii) Derivative financial instruments

In order to hedge its exposure to foreign exchange, interest rate, and commodity price risks, the Group enters into forward, option, swap contracts and other derivative financial instruments. The Group does not hold derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Derivative financial instruments are initially recorded at their fair value on the date of the derivative transaction and are re-measured at their fair value at subsequent financial position dates.

At the inception of the hedge relationship, the entity documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged item, along with its risk management objectives and its strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. Furthermore, at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents whether the hedging instrument is highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk.

Fair Value Hedges –

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recognised in profit or loss immediately, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk. Hedge accounting is discontinued when the Group revokes the hedge relationship, the hedging instrument or hedged item expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised or no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting.

Cash flow Hedges—

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the consolidated statements of profit or loss. Amounts recognised as other comprehensive income are transferred to the statement of profit or loss when the hedged transaction affects profit or loss, such as when the hedged financial income or financial expense is recognised or when a forecast transaction occurs. When the hedged item is a non-financial asset, the amount recognised in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income is transferred to the carrying amount of the asset when it is recognised. Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. If a hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net cumulative gain or loss recognised in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income is transferred to consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Hedge of net investment in foreign operation-

For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, the gain or loss is reported in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income as part of the exchange difference on translation of foreign operations to the extent it is effective. Any ineffective portions of net investment hedges are recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss immediately. Under a hedge of a net investment, the cumulative gain or loss remains in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or when the hedge no longer qualifies for hedge accounting or the Group revokes designation of the hedge relationship. The cumulative gain or loss is recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss when the net investment in the foreign operation is disposed/ liquidated.

Derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are marked to market at the financial position date and gains or losses are recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss immediately.

Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other host contracts are treated as separate derivatives when their risks and characteristics are not closely related to those of host contracts and the host contracts are not carried at fair value with unrealised gains or losses reported in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

H. Equity instruments

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of an entity after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Group are recognised at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

I. Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest expense as per effective interest rate (EIR) and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

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Borrowing costs directly relating to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying capital project under construction are capitalised and added to the project cost during construction until such time that the assets are substantially ready for their intended use i.e. when they are capable of commercial production. Borrowing costs relating to the construction phase of a service concession arrangement is capitalised as part of the cost of the intangible asset. Where funds are borrowed specifically to finance a qualifying capital project, the amount capitalised represents the actual borrowing costs incurred. Where surplus funds are available out of money borrowed specifically to finance a qualifying capital project, the income generated from such short-term investments is deducted from the total capitalised borrowing cost. Where the funds used to finance a project form part of general borrowings, the amount capitalised is calculated using a weighted average of rates applicable to relevant general borrowings of the company during the year.

All other borrowing costs are recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss in the year in which they are incurred.

Capitalisation of interest on borrowings related to construction or development projects is ceased when substantially all the activities that are necessary to make the assets ready for their intended use are complete or when delays occur outside of the normal course of business.

EIR is the rate that exactly discounts the estimated future cash payments or receipts over the expected life of the financial liability or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the amortised cost of a financial liability. When calculating the effective interest rate, the Group estimates the expected cash flows by considering all the contractual terms of the financial instrument (for example, prepayment, extension, call and similar options).

J. Impairment

Financial assets

A financial asset is assessed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any objective evidence that it is impaired. A financial asset is considered to be impaired if objective evidence indicates that one or more events have had a negative effect on the estimated future cash flows of that asset.

An impairment loss in respect of a financial asset measured at amortised cost is calculated as the difference between its carrying amount, and the present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the original effective interest rate. An impairment loss in respect of an available-for-sale financial asset is calculated by reference to its fair value.

Significant financial assets are tested for impairment on an individual basis. The remaining financial assets are assessed collectively in groups that share similar credit risk characteristics. All impairment losses are recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss. Any cumulative loss in respect of an available-for-sale financial asset recognised previously in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income is transferred to the consolidated statements of profit or loss on recognition of impairment. An impairment loss is reversed if the reversal can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised. For financial assets measured at amortised cost and available-for-sale financial assets that are debt securities, the reversal is recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss. For available-for-sale financial assets that are equity securities, reversal is recognised directly in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

The allowance accounts in respect of trade and other receivables are used to record impairment losses unless the Group is satisfied that no recovery of the amount owing is possible; at that point the amounts are considered irrecoverable and are written off against the financial asset directly.

Non-financial assets

Impairment charges and reversals are assessed at an individual asset or at the level of cash-generating units. A cash-generating unit (CGU) is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generate cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or group of assets.

The Group assesses at each reporting date, whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired.The Group conducts an internal review of asset values annually, which is used as a source of information to assess for any indications of impairment or reversal of previously recognised impairment losses. External factors, such as changes in expected future prices, costs and other market factors are also monitored to assess for indications of impairment or reversal of previously recognised impairment losses.

If any such indication exists then an impairment review is undertaken and the recoverable amount is calculated as the higher of fair value less costs of disposal and the asset’s value in use.

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Fair value less costs of disposal is the price that would be received to sell the asset in an orderly transaction between market participants and does not reflect the effects of factors that may be specific to the entity and not applicable to entities in general. Fair value for mineral and oil and gas assets is generally determined as the present value of the estimated future cash flows expected to arise from the continued use of the asset, including any expansion prospects, and its eventual disposal, using assumptions that an independent market participant may take into account. These cash flows are discounted at an appropriate post tax discount rate to arrive at the net present value.

Value in use is determined as the present value of the estimated future cash flows expected to arise from the continued use of the asset in its present form and its eventual disposal. The cash flows are discounted using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset for which estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted. Value in use is determined by applying assumptions specific to the Group’s continued use and cannot take into account future development. These assumptions are different to those used in calculating fair value and consequently the value in use calculation is likely to give a different result to a fair value calculation.

The carrying amount of the CGU is determined on a basis consistent with the way the recoverable amount of the CGU is determined.

If the recoverable amount of an asset or CGU is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset or CGU is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Any reversal of the previously recognised impairment loss is limited to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined if no impairment loss had previously been recognised.

Exploration and evaluation assets:

In assessing whether there is any indication that an exploration and evaluation asset may be impaired, the Group considers, as a minimum, the following indications:

•

the period for which the entity has the right to explore in the specific area has expired during the period or will expire in the near future, and is not expected to be renewed;

•

substantive expenditure on further exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources in the specific area is neither budgeted nor planned;

•

exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources in the specific area have not led to the discovery of commercially viable quantities of mineral resources and the entity has decided to discontinue such activities in the specific area;

•

sufficient data exist to indicate that, although a development in the specific area is likely to proceed, the carrying amount of the exploration and evaluation asset is unlikely to be recovered in full from successful development or by sale; and

•

reserve information prepared annually by external experts.

When a potential impairment is identified, an assessment is performed for each area of interest in conjunction with the group of operating assets (representing a cash-generating unit) to which the exploration and evaluation assets is attributed. Exploration areas in which reserves have been discovered but require major capital expenditure before production can begin, are continually evaluated to ensure that commercial quantities of reserves exist or to ensure that additional exploration work is under way or planned. To the extent that capitalised expenditure is no longer expected to be recovered, it is charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

K. Leases

Determining whether an arrangement contains lease

At inception of an arrangement, the Group determines whether the arrangement is or contains a lease. The arrangement is, or contains, a lease if fulfilment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of a specific asset or assets and the arrangement conveys a right to use the asset or assets, even if that right is not explicitly specified in an arrangement.

At inception or on reassessment of an arrangement that contains lease, the Group separates payments and other consideration required by the arrangement into those for the lease and those for other elements on the basis of their relative fair values. If the Group concludes for a finance lease that it is impracticable to separate the payments reliably, then an asset and a liability are recognised at an amount equal to the fair value of the underlying asset; subsequently the liability is reduced as payments are made and an imputed finance cost on the liability is recognised using the Group’s incremental borrowing rate.

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Group as a lessee

A lease is classified at the inception date as a finance lease or an operating lease. A lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership to the Group is classified as a finance lease.

Finance leases are capitalised at the commencement of the lease at the inception date fair value of the leased property or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognised in finance costs in the statement of profit and loss, unless they are directly attributable to qualifying assets, in which case they are capitalized in accordance with the Group’s general policy on the borrowing costs. Contingent rentals are recognised as expenses in the periods in which they are incurred.

A leased asset is depreciated over the useful life of the asset. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Group will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term, the asset is depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset and the lease term.

Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense in the statement of profit and loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Group as a lessor

Leases in which the Group does not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of an asset are classified as operating leases. Rental income from operating lease is recognised on a straight-line basis over the term of the relevant lease. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognised over the lease term on the same basis as rental income. Contingent rents are recognised as revenue in the period in which they are earned.

Leases are classified as finance leases when substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership transfer from the Group to the lessee. Amounts due from lessees under finance leases are recorded as receivables at the Company’s net investment in the leases. Finance lease income is allocated to accounting periods so as to reflect a constant periodic rate of return on the net investment outstanding in respect of the lease.

L. Government grants

Government grants are not recognised until there is a reasonable assurance that the Group will comply with the conditions attaching to them and that the grants will be received. Government grants relating to tangible fixed assets are deducted in calculating the carrying amount of the assets and recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss over the expected useful lives of the assets concerned as a reduced depreciation expense. Other grants (including grants related to revenue) are credited to the consolidated statements of profit or loss on a systematic basis as and when the related expenditure is incurred.

M. Inventories

Inventories including work-in-progress are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is determined on the following basis:

•

purchased copper concentrate is recorded at cost on a first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) basis; all other materials including stores and spares are valued on weighted average basis except in Oil and Gas business where stores and spares are valued on a FIFO basis;

•

finished products are valued at raw material cost plus costs of conversion, comprising labour costs and an attributable proportion of manufacturing overheads based on normal levels of activity and are moved out of inventory on a FIFO basis, however, cost of finished goods of oil and condensate is determined on a quarterly weighted average basis; and

•

By-products and scrap are valued at net realisable value.

Net realisable value is determined based on estimated selling price, less further costs expected to be incurred to completion and disposal.

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N. Taxation

Tax expense represents the sum of current tax and deferred tax.

Current tax is provided at amounts expected to be paid (or recovered) using the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date and includes any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

Subject to exceptions below, deferred tax is provided, on all temporary differences at the reporting date between the tax base of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes and on carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses:

•

tax payable on the future remittance of the past earnings of subsidiaries where the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future;

•

deferred income tax is not recognised on initial recognition as well as on the impairment of goodwill which is not deductible for tax purposes or on the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss; and

•

deferred tax assets (including MAT credit entitlements) are recognised only to the extent that it is more likely than not that they will be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the year when the asset is realized or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss (either in other comprehensive income or equity).

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets (including MAT credit entitlements) is reviewed at each reporting date and is adjusted to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current income tax assets against current income tax liabilities and the deferred taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences arising on acquisitions that are categorised as Business Combinations. Deferred tax is recognised at acquisition as part of the assessment of the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired. Subsequently deferred tax is charged or credited in the consolidated statements of profit or loss/other comprehensive income as the underlying temporary difference is reversed.

O. Retirement benefits schemes

The Group operates or participates in a number of defined benefits and defined contribution schemes, the assets of which (where funded) are held in separately administered funds. For defined benefit schemes, the cost of providing benefits under the plans is determined by actuarial valuation each year separately for each plan using the projected unit credit method by third party qualified actuaries.

Remeasurement including, effects of asset ceiling and return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in interest on the net defined benefit liability) and actuarial gains and losses arising in the year are recognised in full in other comprehensive income and are not recycled to the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Past service costs are recognised in profit or loss on the earlier of:

-	the date of the plan amendment or curtailment, and

-	the date that the Group recognises related restructuring costs

Net interest is calculated by applying a discount rate to the net defined benefit liability or asset at the beginning of the period. Defined benefit costs are split into current service cost, past service cost, net interest expense or income and remeasurement and gains and losses on curtailments and settlements. Current service cost and past service cost is recognised within cost of sales, administrative expenses and distribution expenses. Net interest expense or income is recognised within finance costs.

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For defined contribution schemes, the amount charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss in respect of pension costs and other postretirement benefits is the contributions payable in the year, recognised as and when the employee renders related service.

P. Share based payments

Certain employees (including executive directors) of the Group receive part of their remuneration in the form of share-based payment transactions, whereby employees render services in exchange for shares or rights over shares (‘equity-settled transactions’).

The cost of equity-settled transactions with employees is measured at fair value at the date at which they are granted. The fair value of share awards is determined with the assistance of an external valuer and the fair value at the grant date is expensed on a proportionate basis over the vesting period based on the Group’s estimate of shares that will eventually vest. The estimate of the number of awards likely to vest is reviewed at each balance sheet date up to the vesting date at which point the estimate is adjusted to reflect the current expectations.

The resultant increase in equity is recorded in share based payment reserve.

In case of cash-settled transactions, a liability is recognised for the fair value of cash-settled transactions. The fair value is measured initially and at each reporting date up to and including the settlement date, with changes in fair value recognised in employee benefits expense. The fair value is expensed over the period until the vesting date with recognition of a corresponding liability. The fair value is determined with the assistance of an external valuer.

Additionally, VRPLC offers certain share based incentives under the Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) to employees and directors of the Company and its subsidiaries. VRPLC recovers the proportionate cost (calculated based on the grant date fair value of the options granted) from the respective group companies, which is charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Q. Provisions, contingent liabilities and contingent assets

Provisions represent liabilities for which the amount or timing is uncertain. Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive), as a result of past events, and it is probable that an outflow of resources, that can be reliably estimated, will be required to settle such an obligation. If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows to net present value using an appropriate pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and, where appropriate, the risks specific to the liability. Unwinding of the discount is recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss as a finance cost. Provisions are reviewed at each reporting date and are adjusted to reflect the current best estimate.

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the Group or a present obligation that is not recognised because it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. A contingent liability also arises in extremely rare cases where there is a liability that cannot be recognised because it cannot be measured reliably. The Group does not recognize a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the consolidated financial statements.

Contingent assets are not recognised but disclosed in the financial statements when an inflow of economic benefits is probable.

R. Restoration, rehabilitation and environmental costs

An obligation to incur restoration, rehabilitation and environmental costs arises when environmental disturbance is caused by the development or ongoing production of a mine or oil fields. Such costs, discounted to net present value, are provided for and a corresponding amount is capitalised at the start of each project, as soon as the obligation to incur such costs arises. These costs are charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss over the life of the operation through the depreciation of the asset and the unwinding of the discount on the provision. The cost estimates are reviewed periodically and are adjusted to reflect known developments which may have an impact on the cost estimates or life of operations. The cost of the related asset is adjusted for changes in the provision due to factors such as updated cost estimates, changes to lives of operations, new disturbance and revisions to discount rates. The adjusted cost of the asset is depreciated prospectively over the lives of the assets to which they relate. The unwinding of the discount is shown as finance and other cost in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

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Costs for the restoration of subsequent site damage, which is caused on an ongoing basis during production are provided for at their net present value and charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss as extraction progresses. Where the costs of site restoration are not anticipated to be material, they are expensed as incurred.

S. Accounting for foreign currency transactions and translations

The functional currency for each entity in the Group is determined as the currency of the primary economic environment in which it operates. For all principal operating subsidiaries, the functional currency is normally the local currency of the country in which it operates with the exception of oil and gas business which has a US dollar functional currency as that is the currency of the primary economic environment in which it operates.

In the financial statements of individual group companies, transactions in currencies other than the functional currency are translated into the functional currency at the exchange rates ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in other currencies are translated into the functional currency at exchange rates prevailing on the reporting date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in other currencies and measured at historical cost or fair value are translated at the exchange rates prevailing on the dates on which such values were determined. All exchange differences are included in the consolidated statements of profit or loss except where the monetary item is designated as an effective hedging instrument of the currency risk of designated forecasted sales or purchases, which are recognized in the other comprehensive income.

These include the exchange differences on foreign currency borrowings relating to asset under construction, and for future productive use which are included in the cost of those assets when they are regarded as an adjustment to interest costs on those foreign currency borrowings.

For the purposes of the consolidated financial statements, items in the consolidated statements of profit or loss of those businesses for which the Indian Rupees is not the functional currency are translated into Indian Rupees at the average rates of exchange during the year/ exchange rates as on the date of transaction. The related consolidated statements of financial position are translated into Indian rupees at the rates as at the reporting date. Exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. On disposal of such entities the deferred cumulative exchange differences recognised in equity relating to that particular foreign operation are recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

T. Earnings per share

The Group presents basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) data for its equity shares. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to equity shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is determined by adjusting the profit or loss attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.

U. Treasury Shares

The Group has created an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT) for providing share-based payment to its employees. The Group uses EBT as a vehicle for distributing shares to employees under the employee remuneration schemes. The EBT buys shares of the company from the market, for giving shares to employees. The shares held by EBT are treated as treasury shares.

Own equity instruments that are reacquired (treasury shares) are recognised at cost and deducted from equity. No gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the Group’s own equity instruments. Any difference between the carrying amount and the consideration, if reissued, is recognised in capital reserve. Share options whenever exercised, would be satisfied with treasury shares.

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V. Current and non-current classification

The Group presents assets and liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet based on current / non-current classification. An asset is classified as current when it satisfies any of the following criteria:

it is expected to be realized in, or is intended for sale or consumption in, the Group’s normal operating cycle.

it is held primarily for the purpose of being traded;

it is expected to be realized within 12 months after the reporting date; or

it is cash or cash equivalent unless it is restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least 12 months after the reporting date.

All other assets are classified as non-current.

A liability is classified as current when it satisfies any of the following criteria:

it is expected to be settled in the Group’s normal operating cycle;

it is held primarily for the purpose of being traded;

it is due to be settled within 12 months after the reporting date; or

the Group does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the reporting date. Terms of a liability that could, at the option of the counterparty, result in its settlement by the issue of equity instruments do not affect its classification.

All other liabilities are classified as non-current.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as non current only.

W. Significant accounting estimates and judgements

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions, that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income, expenses and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of these consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the years presented. These judgements and estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of the relevant facts and circumstances, having regard to previous experience, but actual results may differ materially from the amounts included in the financial statements.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised and future periods affected.

The information about significant areas of estimation uncertainty and critical judgements in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements are as given below:

Significant estimates

i.	Oil and gas reserves

Oil and gas reserves are estimated on a proved and probable entitlement interest basis. Proven and probable reserves are estimated using standard recognised evaluation techniques. The estimate is reviewed annually. Future development costs are estimated taking into account the level of development required to produce the reserves by reference to operators, where applicable, and internal engineers. Net entitlement reserves estimates are subsequently calculated using the Group’s current oil price and cost recovery assumptions, in line with the relevant agreements. Changes in reserves as a result of factors such as production cost, recovery rates, grade of reserves or oil and gas prices could impact the depreciation rates, carrying value of assets and environmental and restoration provisions.

Details of impairment charge/ reversal and depreciation are disclosed in note 8.

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ii.	Carrying value of exploration and evaluation assets:

The recoverability of a project is assessed under IFRS 6. Exploration assets are assessed by comparing the carrying value to higher of fair value less cost of disposal or value in use if impairment indicator exists. Change to the valuation of exploration assets is an area of judgement. Further details on the Group’s accounting policies on this are set out in accounting policy above. The amounts for exploration and evaluation assets represent active exploration projects. These amounts are written off to the consolidated statement of profit or loss as exploration costs unless commercial reserves are established or the determination process is not completed and there are no indicators of impairment. The outcome of ongoing exploration, and therefore whether the carrying value of exploration and evaluation assets will ultimately be recovered, is inherently uncertain.

Details of impairment charge/ reversal impact, the assumptions used and carrying values of exploration and evaluation assets are disclosed in note 8.

iii.	Carrying value of developing / producing oil and gas assets:

Management performs impairment tests on the Group’s developing / producing oil and gas assets where indicators of impairment are identified in accordance with IAS 36.

The impairment assessments are based on a range of estimates and assumptions, including:


Estimates/assumptions		Basis
Future production		proved and probable reserves, resource estimates and, in certain cases, expansion projects
Commodity prices		management’s best estimate benchmarked with external sources of information, to ensure they are within the range of available analyst forecast
Discount to price		management’s best estimate based on historic prevailing discount
Discount rates		cost of capital risk-adjusted for the risk specific to the asset/ CGU
Extension of PSC		assumed that PSC (“Production Sharing Contract”) for Rajasthan block would be extended until 2030 on the expected commercial terms as per the announced government policy

Any subsequent changes to cash flows due to changes in the above mentioned factors could impact the carrying value of the assets.

Details of carrying values, impairment charge/ reversal and the assumptions and sensitivities used are disclosed in note 8.

iv.	Mining properties and leases

The carrying value of mining property and leases is arrived at by depreciating the assets over the life of the mine using the unit of production method based on proved and probable reserves. The estimate of reserves is subject to assumptions relating to life of the mine and may change when new information becomes available. Changes in reserves as a result of factors such as production cost, recovery rates, grade of reserves or commodity prices could thus impact the carrying values of mining properties and leases and environmental and restoration provisions.

In the current year the Group has reassessed the parameters for mine development depletion including cost to complete at HZL, which has resulted in additional depletion charge of ₹ 3,693 million for the current year.

Management performs impairment tests when there is an indication of impairment. The impairment assessments are based on a range of estimates and assumptions, including:


Estimates/assumptions		Basis
Future production		proved and probable reserves, resource estimates (with an appropriate conversion factor) considering the expected permitted mining volumes and, in certain cases, expansion projects
Commodity prices		management’s best estimate benchmarked with external sources of information, to ensure they are within the range of available analyst forecast
Exchange rates		Management’s best estimate benchmarked with external sources of information
Discount rates		cost of capital risk-adjusted for the risk specific to the asset/ CGU

Details of carrying values and impairment charge are disclosed in note 8.

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v.	Assessment of impairment at Lanjigarh refinery:

During financial year 2015-16, the Group has received the necessary approvals for expansion of the Lanjigarh refinery to 4 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). Accordingly, second stream operations were commenced in Alumina refinery from April 2016 and the refinery was debottlenecked to nameplate capacity of 2 MTPA in the previous year. The Company continues to explore the feasibility of expanding our alumina refinery capacity, from 2 to 4 million and then up to 6 million tonnes per annum, subject to bauxite availability and regulatory approvals.

The State of Odisha has abundant bauxite resources and given the initiatives by the Government of Odisha, management is confident that bauxite will be made available in the short to medium term. The Group has entered into agreements with various suppliers internationally and domestically to ensure the availability of bauxite to run its refinery.

Recoverability value assessment during the previous year ended March 31, 2017 including sensitivity analysis on the key assumptions indicated recoverable value exceeds the carrying value. No negative developments have occurred since the previous year and accordingly, it is not expected that the carrying amount would exceed the recoverable amount and hence the recoverable value for the year ended March 31, 2018 was not re-determined.

The carrying amounts of property plant and equipment related to alumina refinery operations at Lanjigarh and related mining assets as at March 31, 2017 is ₹ 69,277 million and March 31, 2018 is ₹ 67,875 million ($ 1,043 million).

vii.	Assessment of impairment of Goa Iron ore mines:

Pursuant to an order passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India on February 07, 2018, the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the State of Goa in 2014-15 to all miners including Vedanta were cancelled. Consequentially all mining operations stopped with effect from March 16, 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted in accordance with the provisions of The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act. Significant uncertainty exists over the resumption of mining at Goa under the current leases. The Group has assessed the recoverable value of all its assets and liabilities associated with existing mining leases which led to an impairment charge in the current year.

Details of impairment charge and method of estimating recoverable value are disclosed in note 8.

viii.

Restoration, rehabilitation and environmental costs:

Provision is made for costs associated with restoration and rehabilitation of mining sites as soon as the obligation to incur such costs arises. Such restoration and closure costs are typical of extractive industries and they are normally incurred at the end of the life of the mine or oil fields. The costs are estimated on the basis of mine closure plans and the estimated discounted costs of dismantling and removing these facilities and the costs of restoration are capitalised as soon as the obligation to incur such costs arises.

The provision for decommissioning oil and gas assets is based on the current estimates of the costs for removing and decommissioning production facilities, the forecast timing and currency of settlement of decommissioning liabilities and the appropriate discount rate.

A corresponding provision is created on the liability side. The capitalized asset is charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss over the life of the operation through the depreciation of the asset and the provision is increased each period via unwinding the discount on the provision. Management estimates are based on local legislation and/or other agreements. The actual costs and cash outflows may differ from estimates because of changes in laws and regulations, changes in prices, analysis of site conditions and changes in restoration technology. Details of such provisions are set out in Note 20.

ix.	Provisions and liabilities

Provisions and liabilities are recognised in the period when it becomes probable that there will be a future outflow of funds resulting from past operations or events that can be reasonably estimated. The timing of recognition requires the application of judgement to existing facts and circumstances which may be subject to change especially when taken in the context of the legal environment in India. The actual cash outflows may take place over many years in the future and hence the carrying amounts of provisions and liabilities are regularly reviewed and adjusted to take into account the changing circumstances and other factors that influence the provisions and liabilities. This is set out in note 20.

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x.	The HZL and BALCO call options

The Group had exercised its call option to acquire the remaining 49.0% interest in BALCO and 29.5% interest in HZL. The Government of India has however, contested the validity of the options and disputed their valuation performed in terms of the relevant agreements the details of which are set out in note 28. In view of the lack of resolution on the options, the non-response to the exercise and valuation request from the Government of India, the resultant uncertainty surrounding the potential transaction and the valuation of the consideration payable, the Group considers the strike price of the options to be at fair value, accordingly, the value of the option would be nil, and hence, the call options have not been recognised in the financial statements.

xi.	Recoverability of deferred tax and other income tax assets

The Group has carry forward tax losses, unabsorbed depreciation and MAT credit that are available for offset against future taxable profit. Deferred tax assets are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the unused tax losses or tax credits can be utilized. This involves an assessment of when those assets are likely to reverse, and a judgement as to whether or not there will be sufficient taxable profits available to offset the assets. This requires assumptions regarding future profitability, which is inherently uncertain. To the extent assumptions regarding future profitability change, there can be an increase or decrease in the amounts recognised in respect of deferred tax assets and consequential impact in the consolidated statement of profit and loss.

Additionally, the Group has tax receivables on account of refund arising on account of past amalgamation and relating to various tax disputes. The recoverability of these receivables involve application of judgement as to the ultimate outcome of the tax assessment and litigations. This pertains to the application of the legislation, which in certain cases is based upon management’s interpretation of country specific tax law, in particular India, and the likelihood of settlement. Management uses in-house and external legal professionals to make informed decision.

The details of MAT assets (recognized and unrecognized) are set out in note 7.

xii.	Copper operations India

In an appeal filed by the Group against the closure order of the Tuticorin Copper smelter by Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (“TNPCB”), the appellate authority National Green Tribunal (“NGT”) passed an interim order on May 31, 2013 allowing the copper smelter to recommence operations and appointed an Expert Committee to submit a report on the plant operations. Post the interim order, the plant recommenced operations on June 23, 2013. Based on Expert Committee’s report on the operations of the plant stating that the plant’s emission were within prescribed standards and based on this report, NGT ruled on July 15, 2013 that the Copper smelter could continue its operations and recommendations made by the Expert Committee be implemented in a time bound manner. The Group has implemented all of the recommendations. TNPCB has filed an appeal against the order of the NGT before the Supreme Court of India.

In the meanwhile, the application for renewal of Consent to Operate (CTO) for existing copper smelter, required as per procedure established by law was rejected by TNPCB in April 2018. The Company has filed an appeal before the TNPCB Appellate Authority challenging the Rejection Order. During the pendency of the appeal, there were protests by a section of local community raising environmental concerns and TNPCB vide its order dated May 23, 2018 ordered closure of existing copper smelter plant with immediate effect. Further, the Government of Tamil Nadu, issued orders dated May 28, 2018 with a direction to seal the existing copper smelter plant permanently. The Company believes these actions were not taken in accordance with the procedure prescribed under applicable laws.

Subsequently, the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health passed orders dated May 30, 2018, directing the immediate suspension and revocation of the Factory License and the Registration Certificate for the existing smelter plant. Separately, the Company has filed a fresh application for renewal of the Environmental Clearance for the proposed Copper Smelter Plant 2 (Expansion Project) dated March 12, 2018 before the Expert Appraisal Committee of the MoEF wherein a sub-committee was directed to visit the Expansion Project site prior to prescribing the Terms of Reference.

In the meantime, the Madurai Bench of the High Court of Madras in a Public Interest Litigation held vide its order dated May 23, 2018 that the application for renewal of the Environmental Clearance for the Expansion Project shall be processed after a mandatory public hearing and the said application shall be decided by the competent authority on or before September 23, 2018. In the interim, the High Court ordered the Company to cease construction and all other activities on site for the proposed Expansion Project with immediate effect. Separately, SIPCOT vide its letter dated May 29, 2018, cancelled 342.22 acres of the land allotted to us for the proposed Expansion Project. Further the TNPCB issued orders on June 7, 2018 directing the withdrawal of the Consent to Establish (CTE) which was valid till December 31, 2022.

The Company is taking appropriate legal measures to address the matters.

Even though there can be no assurance regarding the final outcome of the process and the timing of such process in relation to the approval for the expansion project, as per the company’s assessment and backed by the legal opinion, it is in compliance with

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the applicable regulations and expects to get the necessary approvals in relation to the existing operational and the expansion project and is not expecting any material loss on this account. The carrying value of the assets under operation and under expansion as at March 31, 2018 is ₹ 18,500 million ($ 284 million) and ₹ 9,631 million ($148 million) respectively.

The Company has carried out a sensitivity analysis on the key variables including delay in restarting existing and expansion operations. The sensitivity analysis indicates that even if the restarting of existing and the expansion operations is delayed by upto three years, the recoverable amount of the assets would still be in excess of their carrying values. The Company expects to resume operations within this period.

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Significant judgements

a	Revenue recognition and receivable recovery in relation to the power division

In certain cases, the Group’s power customers are disputing various contractual provisions of Power Purchase Agreements (PPA). Significant judgement is required in both assessing the tariff to be charged under the PPA in accordance with IAS 18 and to assess the recoverability of withheld revenue currently accounted for as receivables.

In assessing this critical judgement, management considered favourable external legal opinions, the Group has obtained in relation to the claims and favourable court judgements in the related matter. In addition the fact that the contracts are with government owned companies implies the credit risk is low. (Refer note 11 for details).

b	Contingencies

In the normal course of business, contingent liabilities may arise from litigation, taxation and other claims against the Group. A tax provision is recognised when the Group has a present obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable that the Group will be required to settle that obligation. Where it is management’s assessment that the outcome cannot be reliably quantified or is uncertain, the claims are disclosed as contingent liabilities unless the likelihood of an adverse outcome is remote. Such liabilities are disclosed in the notes but are not provided for in the financial statements.

When considering the classification of a legal or tax cases as probable, possible or remote there is judgement involved. This pertains to the application of the legislation, which in certain cases is based upon management’s interpretation of country specific applicable law, in particular India, and the likelihood of settlement. Management uses in-house and external legal professionals to make informed decision.

Although there can be no assurance regarding the final outcome of the legal proceedings, the Group does not expect them to have a materially adverse impact on the Group’s financial position or profitability. These are set out in note 29.

c	Determining whether an arrangement contains a lease

The Group has ascertained that the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) entered into between one of the subsidiaries and a State Grid qualifies to be an operating lease under IAS 17 “Leases”. Accordingly, the consideration receivable under the PPA relating to recovery of capacity charges towards capital cost have been recognised as operating lease rentals and in respect of variable cost that includes fuel costs, operations and maintenance etc. is considered as revenue from sale of products/services.

Significant judgement is required in segregating the capacity charges due from the State Grid, between fixed and contingent payments. The Group has determined that since the capacity charges under the PPA are based on the number of units of electricity made available by its Subsidiary which would be subject to variation on account of various factors like availability of coal and water for the plant, there are no fixed minimum payments under the PPA, which requires it to be accounted for on a straight line basis. The contingent rents recognised are disclosed in note 29 E (ii).

X. Recently issued accounting pronouncements: The following Standards have been issued but are not yet effective up to the date of authorisation of these financial statements:

IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments

In July 2014, the International Accounting Standards Board issued the final version of IFRS 9, Financial Instruments. The standard reduces the complexity of the current rules on financial instruments as mandated in IAS 39. IFRS 9 has fewer classification and measurement categories as compared to IAS 39. It eliminates the rule based requirement of segregating embedded derivatives from financial assets and tainting rules pertaining to held to maturity investments. For financial assets which are debt instruments, IFRS 9 establishes a principle based approach for classification based on cash flow characteristics of the asset and the business model in which an asset is held. For an investment in an equity instrument which is not held for trading, IFRS 9 permits an irrevocable election, on initial recognition, on an individual share-by- share basis, to present all fair value changes from the investment in other comprehensive income. No amount recognised in other comprehensive income on such equity investment would ever be reclassified to profit or loss. It requires the entity, which chooses to designate a liability as at fair value through profit or loss, to present the portion of the fair value change attributable to the entity’s own credit risk in the other comprehensive income. IFRS 9 replaces the ‘incurred loss model’ in IAS 39 with an ‘expected credit loss’ model. The measurement uses a dual measurement approach, under which the loss allowance is measured as either 12 month expected credit losses or lifetime expected credit losses. The standard also introduces new presentation and disclosure requirements. The effective date for the adoption of IFRS 9 is annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, though early adoption is permitted. Except for hedge accounting, retrospective application is required but providing comparative information is not compulsory. For hedge accounting, the requirements are generally applied prospectively, with some limited exceptions.

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The Group has completed its assessment of the effects of transition to IFRS 9 and will adopt the same from April 1, 2018. The areas impacted on adopting IFRS 9 on the Group are detailed below.

Classification and measurement: IFRS 9 establishes a principle based approach for classification of financial assets based on cash flow characteristics of the asset and the business model in which an asset is held. The measurement and accounting treatment of the Group’s financial assets is materially unchanged with the exception of equity securities previously categorised as available for sale. These will be held at fair value through other comprehensive income, meaning the recycling of gains and losses on disposal and impairment losses is no longer permitted for this category.

Impairment: Based on the Group’s assessment, under expected credit loss model, the impairment of financial assets held at amortised cost is not expected to have a material impact on the Group’s results, given the low exposure to counterparty default risk as a result of the credit risk management processes that are in place.

Hedge accounting: The Group plans to adopt the IFRS 9 hedge accounting requirements. The adoption of the new standard would have no effect on the amounts recognised in relation to the existing hedging arrangements.

IFRS 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers

IFRS 15 Revenue from contracts with Customers outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers. The standard replaces most of the current revenue recognition guidance. The core principle of the new standard is for companies to recognize revenue when the control of the goods and services is transferred to the customer as against the transfer of risk and rewards. The amount of revenue recognised should reflect the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The new standard also will result in enhanced disclosures about revenue, provide guidance for transactions that were not previously addressed comprehensively including service revenues and contract modifications and improved guidance for multiple element arrangements. The new Standard comes into effect for the annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018 with early application permitted.

In order to identify the potential impact of the standard on the Group’s consolidated financial statements, the Group has analyzed contracts of the relevant revenue streams of the Group. The work done is focused on evaluating the contractual arrangements across the Group’s principal revenue streams, particularly key terms and conditions which may impact the timing of revenue recognition and measurement of revenue.

Based on the work carried out, the impact in implementing IFRS 15 on the Group results is detailed below:

On the basis of the analysis conducted, the new standard would result in identification of freight and insurance services as a separate performance obligation implying segregation of revenue on account of sale of goods and sale of services. The revenue on account of these services is required to be deferred along with the associated costs and recognised over time as this obligation is fulfilled.

The Group has products which are provisionally priced at the date revenue is recognised. Revenue in respect of such contracts will be recognised when control passes to the customer and will be measured at the amount the entity expects to be entitled – being the estimate of the price expected to be received at the end of the measurement period. Post transfer of control of goods, provisional pricing features will be accounted in accordance with IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments” rather than IFRS 15 and therefore the IFRS 15 rules on variable consideration do not apply. These ‘provisional pricing’ adjustments i.e. the consideration received post transfer of control will continue to be included in Consolidated revenue on the face of the consolidated statements of profit or loss and these would be disclosed by way of note to the financial statements.

The implementation of changes required as per IFRS 15 as mentioned above is identified to be not materially effecting the current recognition and measurement of revenues, though there would be significant additional disclosure requirements for the Group to comply with.

The Group will adopt the modified transitional approach to implementation where any transitional adjustment is recognised in retained earnings at April 1, 2018 without adjustment of comparatives and the new standard will only be applied to contracts that remain in force at that date.

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IFRIC 22: Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration: The Interpretation, which was issued on 8 December 2016, addresses how to determine the date of a transaction for the purpose of determining the exchange rate to use on initial recognition of an asset, expense or income (or part of it) when a related non-monetary asset or non-monetary liability arising from the payment or receipt of advance consideration in a foreign currency is derecognised. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, although entities are permitted to apply them earlier.

IAS 40 Investment Property: Paragraph 57 has been amended to state that an entity shall transfer a property to, or from, investment property when, and only when, there is evidence of a change in use. A change of use occurs if property meets, or ceases to meet, the definition of investment property. A change in management’s intentions for the use of a property by itself does not constitute evidence of a change in use. The list of evidence in paragraph 57(a) – (d) was designated as non-exhaustive list of examples instead of the previous exhaustive list. The amendments are effective for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Earlier application is permitted.

IFRS 2 Share-based Payment: Few amendments to clarify the classification and measurement of share-based payment transactions have been issued. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Earlier application is permitted. The amendments are to be applied prospectively. However, retrospective application is allowed if this is possible without the use of hindsight.

IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts: Amendments regarding the interaction of IFRS 4 and IFRS 9 has been issued. An entity choosing to apply the overlay approach retrospectively to qualifying financial assets does so when it first applies IFRS 9. An entity choosing to apply the deferral approach does so for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018.

Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2014–2016 Cycle: The amendments to IFRS 1 and IAS 28 are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018 -

IFRS 1 - First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards: Deletes the short term exemptions in paragraphs E3–E7 of IFRS 1, because they have now served their intended purpose.

IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures clarifies that the election to measure at fair value through profit or loss an investment in an associate or a joint venture that is held by an entity that is a venture capital organisation, or other qualifying entity, is available for each investment in an associate or joint venture on an investment by investment basis, upon initial recognition.

IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures: Clarifies that an entity applies IFRS 9 to long-term interests in associates or joint ventures that form part of the net investment where the equity method is not applied. The amendments are effective for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019.

IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments: Clarify the application of recognition and measurement requirements in IAS 12 Income Taxes when there is uncertainty over income tax treatments. The Interpretation is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, but certain transition reliefs are available.

Amendments to IAS 19 - Plan Amendment, Curtailment or Settlement: If a plan amendment, curtailment or settlement occurs, it is now mandatory that the current service cost and the net interest for the period after the remeasurement are determined using the assumptions used for the remeasurement. In addition, amendments have been included to clarify the effect of a plan amendment, curtailment or settlement on the requirements regarding the asset ceiling. This is applicable from annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019.

Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2015–2017 Cycle: This is applicable from annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019.

IFRS 3 and IFRS 11 The amendments to IFRS 3 clarify that when an entity obtains control of a business that is a joint operation, it re measures previously held interests in that business. The amendments to IFRS 11 clarify that when an entity obtains joint control of a business that is a joint operation, the entity does not remeasure previously held interests in that business.

IAS 12 The amendments clarify that all income tax consequences of dividends (i.e. distribution of profits) should be recognised in profit or loss, regardless of how the tax arises.

F-40

IAS 23 The amendments clarify that if any specific borrowing remains outstanding after the related asset is ready for its intended use or sale, that borrowing becomes part of the funds that an entity borrows generally when calculating the capitalisation rate on general borrowings.

IFRS 16 – Leases

IFRS 16- Leases, specifies recognition, measurement and disclosure criteria for leases. The standard provides a single lessee accounting model, requiring lessees to recognise assets and liabilities for all leases unless the lease term is 12 months or less or the underlying asset has a low value. Lessors continue to classify leases as operating or finance, with IFRS 16’s approach to lessor accounting substantially unchanged from its predecessor, IAS 17. The new Standard will come into effect for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Earlier application is permitted if IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers has also been applied.

The Group is currently in the process of determining the potential impact of adopting the above standard.

IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts: Clarify the measurement and recognition, presentation and disclosure of insurance contracts that will significantly increase the comparability of financial statements. IFRS 17 will become effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2021. Early application is permitted.

4. Revenue


For the year ended March 31,	2016			2017			2018			2018
	(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)			(US dollars in million)
Sale of products, gross of excise duty		666,567			749,314			917,028			14,084
Less: excise duty		(37,308	)		(39,462	)		(10,564	)		(162	)
Sale of products, net of excise duty		629,259			709,852			906,464			13,922
Sale of services		6,731			4,792			3,085			47
Export incentives		3,503			2,563			4,171			64

Total revenue		639,493			717,207			913,720			14,033

F-41

5. Investment and other income


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Fair value gain on financial assets held for trading		31,244		32,630		16,530		254
Interest income:
Interest income on financial assets held for trading		4,648		8,070		7,270		112
Interest income on bank deposits at amortized cost		3,199		1,712		1,327		20
Interest income on loans and receivables at amortized cost		4,465		2,608		2,502		38
Others		—		585		2,175		34
Dividend income on available for sale investments		4		7		111		2
Bargain gain net of acquisition cost		—		—		335		5
Foreign exchange gain/ (loss) net		461		(184)		736		11
Capitalisation of interest income⁽¹⁾		(23)		—		—		—

		43,998		45,428		30,986		476

Notes:

⁽¹⁾	Capitalisation of interest income relates to the income from temporary surplus funds, specifically borrowed to acquire/ construct qualifying assets.

6. Finance and other costs


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Interest on borrowings other than convertible notes⁽¹⁾		53,848		55,100		51,118		785
Foreign currency translation reserve reclassified from equity to profit and loss relating to subsidiaries under liquidation⁽⁴⁾		—		—		81,315		1,249
Unwinding of discount on provisions		779		844		837		13
Net foreign exchange loss on foreign currency borrowings and creditors for capital expenditure		4,708		2,321		565		9
Bank charges		1,126		700		1,127		17
Others⁽³⁾		5,051		9,325		9,704		149
Capitalisation of finance costs⁽²⁾		(5,928)		(6,690)		(3,484)		(54)

		59,584		61,600		141,182		2,168

Notes:

⁽¹⁾	Represent cost in respect of financial liabilities which are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

⁽²⁾	Capitalisation of borrowing costs relates to funds borrowed both specifically and generally to acquire/ construct qualifying assets. The capitalisation rate relating to borrowings was approximately 8.91%, 9.00% and 8.14% for the year ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively.

⁽³⁾	Includes charge pursuant to unfavourable arbitration order (refer note 29 – Vedanta Limited Contractor claims).

⁽⁴⁾

Three wholly owned subsidiaries of the Group, Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Limited, Twin Star Energy Holdings Limited and Sesa Sterlite Mauritius Holdings Limited are in the process of liquidation. All these entities had US dollar as their functional currency and their financial statements are translated into Indian Rupees for the purpose of consolidated financial statements. The cumulative exchange difference relating to these entities recognized in equity has now been recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

F-42

7. Income tax expense

Overview of the Indian direct tax regime

Indian companies are subject to Indian income tax on a standalone basis. Each entity is assessed for tax on taxable profits determined for each fiscal year beginning on April 1 and ending on March 31. For each fiscal year, the respective entities’ profit or loss is subject to the higher of the regular income tax payable or the minimum alternative tax (“MAT”).

Statutory income taxes are assessed based on book profits prepared under generally accepted accounting principles in India (“Indian GAAP”) adjusted in accordance with the provisions of the (Indian) Income tax Act, 1961. Such adjustments generally relate to depreciation of fixed assets, disallowances of certain provisions and accruals, deduction for tax holidays and similar exemptions, the use of tax losses carried forward and retirement benefit costs. Statutory income tax is charged at 30% plus a surcharge and education cess. The combined Indian statutory tax rate for the fiscal year 2015-16 was 34.61%, for the fiscal year 2016-17 was 34.61%, for the fiscal year 2017-18 was 34.61% and for the fiscal year 2018-19 will be 34.99%.

MAT is assessed on book profits adjusted for certain limited items as compared to the adjustments allowed for assessing regular income tax under normal provisions. MAT for the fiscal year 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 was chargeable at 18.50% plus a surcharge and education cess. The combined Indian statutory tax rate of MAT for the fiscal year 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 was 21.34% and for the fiscal year 2018-19 will be 21.55%. MAT paid in excess of regular income tax during a year can be set off against regular income taxes within a period of fifteen years succeeding the assessment year in which MAT credit arises subject to the limits prescribed.

Business losses in India can be carried forward for a maximum period of eight assessment years immediately succeeding the assessment year to which the loss pertains. Unabsorbed depreciation can be carried forward for an indefinite period.

Losses arising out of transfer of capital assets in India can be carried forward for a maximum period of eight assessment years immediately succeeding the assessment year to which the loss pertains. The carried forward long term capital losses can be set-off only against long term capital gains. Short term capital losses can be set off only against capital gains (which can be either long term or short term capital gain).

Income tax returns submitted by companies are regularly subjected to a comprehensive review and challenge by the tax authorities. There are appellate procedures available to both the tax authorities and taxpayers and it is not uncommon for significant or complex matters in dispute to remain outstanding for several years before they are finally resolved by the High Court or the Supreme Court.

There are various tax exemptions or tax holidays available to companies in India. The most important to the Companies in the Group are:

The location based exemption

In order to boost industrial and economic development in undeveloped regions, provided certain conditions are met profits of newly established undertakings located in certain areas in India may benefit from a tax holiday. Such a tax holiday works to exempt 100% of the profits for the first five years from the commencement of the tax holiday, and 30% of profits for the subsequent five years. This deduction is available only for units established up to 31 March 2012. However, such entity would continue to be subject to the Minimum Alternative tax (‘MAT’).

F-43

The Group has such types of undertakings at Haridwar and Pantnagar, which are part of Hindustan Zinc Limited (Zinc India). In the current year, Haridwar and Pantnagar units are eligible for deduction at 30% of taxable profits

The location based exemption: SEZ Operations

In order to boost industrial development and exports, provided certain conditions are met, profits of undertaking located in Special Economic Zone (‘SEZ’) may benefit from a tax holiday. Such a tax holiday works to exempt 100% of the profits for the first five years from the commencement of the tax holiday, 50% of the profits for five years thereafter and 50% of the profits for further five years provided the amount allowable in respect of deduction is credited to Special Economic Zone Re-Investment Reserve account. However, such undertaking would continue to be subject to the Minimum Alternative tax (‘MAT’).

The Group has setup SEZ Operations in its aluminium division of Vedanta Limited (where no benefit has been drawn).

Sectoral Benefit - Power Plants and Port Operations

To encourage the establishment of infrastructure certain power plants and ports have been offered income tax exemptions of upto 100% of profits and gains for any ten consecutive years within the 15 year period following commencement of operations subject to certain conditions. The Group currently has total operational capacity of 8.4 Giga Watts (GW) of thermal based power generation facilities and wind power capacity of 274 Mega Watts (MW) and port facilities. However, such undertakings would continue to be subject to MAT provisions.

The Group has power plants which benefit from such deductions, at various locations of Hindustan Zinc Limited (where such benefits has been drawn), Talwandi Sabo Power Limited, Vedanta Limited and Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (where no benefit has been drawn) and port facilities at Vizag General Cargo Berth Limited (where no benefits has been drawn).

Investment Allowance u/s.32 AC of the Income Tax Act

Incentive for acquisition and installation of new high value Plant or Machinery to manufacturing companies by providing an additional deduction of 15% of the actual cost of Plant or Machinery acquired and installed during the year. The actual cost of the new Plant or Machinery should exceed ₹ 250 million to be eligible for this deduction. Deduction under section 32 AC was available up to financial year March 31, 2017.

The total effect of such tax holidays and similar exemptions were ₹ 20,176 million (impact on basic EPS ₹ 6.80), ₹ 14,755 million (impact on basic EPS ₹ 4.98) and ₹ 10,152 million ($158 million) (impact on basic EPS ₹ 2.74) ($0.04) for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively.

Non-current tax assets of ₹ 28,176 million and ₹ 33,894 million ($ 521 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively mainly represents income tax receivable from Indian tax authorities by the Company relating to the refund arising consequent to the Scheme of Amalgamation & Arrangement made effective in August 2013 pursuant to approval by the jurisdiction High Court and receivables relating to matters in tax disputes in Group companies including tax holiday claim.

The major components of income tax expense for the year ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 are indicated below:

(a) Consolidated statements of Profit or loss


For the year ended March 31,	2016			2017			2018		2018
	(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Current tax:
Current tax on profit for the year		36,681			39,520			32,824		504
Charge / (credit) in respect of current tax for earlier years		(1,660	)		(87	)		392		6

Total current tax		35,021			39,433			33,216		510

Deferred tax:
Origination and reversal of temporary differences		(139,104	)		(690	)		31,633		486
Charge in respect of deferred tax for earlier years		19			(716	)		835		13
Increase in tax rate		1,004			—			742		11

Total deferred tax		(138,081)			(1,406)			33,210		510

Total income tax (benefit) / expense for the year		(103,060)			38,027			66,426		1,020
Accounting profit / (loss) before tax		(284,408)			136,572			113,335		1,741
Effective income tax rate (%)		36.2%			27.8%			58.6%		58.6%

F-44

(b) Consolidated statements of comprehensive income


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Deferred tax (credit) / charge on:
- cash flow hedges		185		383		(1,572)		(24)
- reclassification adjustments on cash flow hedges		(101)		(284)		1,226		19
- remeasurement of defined benefit obligation		(47)		(40)		(30)		0
- Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations		—		(61)		29		(0)

		37		(2)		(347)		(5)

A reconciliation of income tax expense/ (credit) applicable to accounting profit / (loss) before tax at the statutory income tax rate to recognised income tax expense/ (credit) for the year at the Group’s effective tax rate indicated are as follows:


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017			2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Accounting profit / (loss) before tax		(284,408)		136,572			113,335		1,741
Indian Statutory income tax rate		34.61%		34.61%			34.61%		34.61%
Tax at Indian statutory income tax rate		(98,428)		47,265			39,223		602
Disallowable expenses		970		1,198			1,529		24
Non-taxable income		(12,249)		(10,344)			(3,170)		(49)
FCTR recycled on liquidation of subsidiaries to consolidated statements of profit or loss		—		—			28,142		432
Tax holidays and similar exemptions		(20,176)		(14,755)			(10,152)		(156)
Impact of changes in tax rate		1,004		—			742		11
Effect of tax rates differences of subsidiaries operating in other jurisdictions		4,951		(2,515	)		4,179		64
Dividend distribution tax		16,235		16,418			4,042		62
Charge/(credit) in respect of previous years		(1,641)		(803)			1,227		19
Unrecognised Tax Assets (net)		7,418		4,492			2,723		42
Capital loss lapsed on account of Merger (Refer note 1)		—		3,411			—		—
Others		(1,144)		(6,340)			(2,059)		(31)

		(103,060)		38,027			66,426		1,020

F-45

Deferred tax assets/liabilities

The Group has accrued significant amounts of deferred tax. The majority of the deferred tax liabilities represents accelerated tax relief for the depreciation of property plant and equipment and the fair value uplifts created on acquisitions, net of losses carried forward by Vedanta Limited (post the re-organization) and unused tax credits in the form of MAT credits carried forward in Vedanta Limited, Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited and Hindustan Zinc Limited. Significant components of Deferred tax (assets)/liabilities recognized in the consolidated balance sheet are as follows:


For the year ended March 31, 2016:
	Opening balance as at April 1, 2015		Charged/ (credited) to Statement of profit or loss		Charged/ (credited) to other comprehensive income		Charged/ (credited) to equity		Exchange difference transferred to translation of foreign operation		Closing balance as at March 31, 2016
Significant components of deferred tax liabilities/(assets)	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)
Property, plant and equipment, Exploration and Evaluation and other intangible assets		222,116		(117,353)		—		—		6,370		111,133
Unabsorbed depreciation/business loss		(29,668)		(8,011)		—		—		—		(37,679)
Voluntary retirement scheme		(694)		(197)		—		—		—		(891)
Employee benefits		(444)		125		(47)		—		22		(344)
Fair value of derivative assets/ liabilities		(524)		320		84		—		—		(120)
Fair valuation of other assets/liabilities		9,662		(168)		—		—		48		9,542
MAT credits entitlement		(118,833)		(11,673)		—		—		—		(130,506)
Other temporary differences		(2,290)		(1,124)		—		—		10		(3,404)

Total		79,325		(138,081)		37		—		6,450		(52,269)

F-46


For the year ended March 31, 2017:
	Opening balance as at April 1, 2016		Charged/ (credited) to Statement of profit or loss		Charged/ (credited) to other comprehensive income		Charged/ (credited) to equity		Exchange difference transferred to translation of foreign operation		Total as at March 31, 2017
Significant components of deferred tax liabilities/(assets)	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)
Property, plant and equipment, Exploration and Evaluation and other intangible assets		111,133		(651)		—		—		(258)		110,224
Unabsorbed depreciation/business loss		(37,679)		(3,975)		—		—		—		(41,654)
Voluntary retirement scheme		(891)		112		—		—		—		(779)
Employee benefits		(344)		(58)		(40)		—		—		(442)
Fair value of derivative assets/ liabilities		(120)		(317)		99		—		—		(338)
Fair valuation of other assets/liabilities		9,542		(625)		—		—		14		8,931
MAT credits entitlement		(130,506)		6,933		(278)		—		—		(123,851)
Other temporary differences		(3,404)		(2,825)		217		43		311		(5,658)

Total		(52,269)		(1,406)		(2)		43		67		(53,567)


For the year ended March 31, 2018:
	Opening balance as at April 1, 2017		Charged/ (credited) to Statement of profit or loss		Charged/ (credited) to other comprehensive income		Deferred tax on acquisition through business combination		Exchange difference transferred to translation of foreign operation		Clsoing balance as at March 31, 2018		Closing balance as at March 31, 2017
Significant components of deferred tax liabilities/(assets)	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Property, plant and equipment, Exploration and Evaluation and other intangible assets		110,224		21,261		—		(213)		841		132,113		2,029
Unabsorbed depreciation/business loss		(41,654)		1,781		—		—		2		(39,871)		(612)
Voluntary retirement scheme		(779)		368		—		—		—		(411)		(6)
Employee benefits		(442)		(381)		(30)		—		(22)		(875)		(13)
Fair value of derivative assets/ liabilities		(338)		123		(346)		—		(2)		(563)		(9)
Fair valuation of other assets/liabilities		8,931		(3,616)		—		3,906		329		9,550		147
MAT credits entitlement		(123,851)		12,950		(39)		—		56		(110,884)		(1,703)
Other temporary differences		(5,658)		724		68		—		512		(4,354)		(67)

Total		(53,567)		33,210		(347)		3,693		1,716		(15,295)		(234)

Deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset where they arise in the same legal entity and taxing jurisdiction but not otherwise.

F-47

Accordingly, the net deferred tax (assets)/liability has been disclosed in the consolidated statement of financial position as follows:

As at March 31,

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

Deferred tax asset

(77,582)

(58,635)

(901)

Deferred tax liability

24,015

43,340

666

Net deferred tax (asset)/ liability

(53,567)

(15,295)

(235)

Deferred tax assets in the Group have been recognized to the extent there are sufficient taxable temporary differences relating to the same taxation authority and the same taxable entity which are expected to reverse. For certain components of the Group, deferred tax assets on carry forward unused tax losses have been recognised to the extent of deferred tax liabilities on taxable temporary differences available. It is expected that any reversals of the deferred tax liability would be offset against the reversal of the deferred tax asset at respective entities.

Unused tax losses for which no deferred tax asset is recognised amount to ₹ 143,917 million, ₹ 98,831 million and ₹ 35,171 million ($ 539 million) as at March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

MAT credits are taxes paid to Indian tax authorities which can be offset against future tax liabilities, subject to certain restrictions, within a period of 15 years from the year of origination. The Group recognises MAT assets only to the extent it expects to realise the same within the prescribed period. The unused tax losses as at March 31, 2018 expire, if unutilized, based on the year of origination as follows:


Particulars	Within one year (₹ in million)		Greater than one year, less than five years (₹ in million)		Greater than five years (₹ in million)		No expiry date (₹ in million)		Total (₹ in million)		Total (US Dollars in million)
Unutilized business losses		1,277		1,457		141		12,014		14,889		228
Unabsorbed depreciation		—		—		—		20,195		20,195		310
Unused R&D Tax Credit		—		—		—		87		87		1
Total		1,277		1,457		141		32,296		35,171		539

Further, the Group had unused MAT credit amounting to ₹ 2,960 million and ₹ 3,000 million ($ 47 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. Such tax credits have not been recognised on the basis that recovery is not probable in the foreseeable future. Unrecognised MAT credit expires, if unutilized, based on the year of origination as follows:


Financial year ending March 31,	(₹ in million)		(US dollar in million)
2023		137		2
2024		521		8
2025		517		8
2026		1,035		16
2027		633		10
2028		81		1
2029		36		1
2032		40		1

		3,000		47

The Group has not recognised any deferred tax liabilities for taxes that would be payable on the Group’s share in unremitted earnings of certain of its subsidiaries because the Group controls when the liability will be incurred and it is probable that the liability will not be incurred in the foreseeable future. The amount of unremitted earnings was ₹ 328,798 million and ₹ 314,877 million ($4,886 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

F-48

8 (a). Property, plant and equipment –


	Mining property		Land and buildings		Plant and equipment		Oil and Gas Properties		Others		Total		Total
	₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		US dollars in million
Cost
April 01, 2016		152,004		104,284		599,163		638,508		9,928		1,503,887
Additions		9,441		2,356		114,533		8,863		862		136,055
Transfer during the year from exploration and evaluation assets		9,508		—		—		1,103		—		10,611
Disposals/ adjustments		(2,302)		(562)		(2,078)		—		(738)		(5,680)
Foreign exchange		1,814		464		1,980		(14,717)		80		(10,379)

March 31, 2017		170,465		106,542		713,598		633,757		10,132		1,634,494		25,104

Additions		16,231		1,823		56,789		9,078		729		84,650		1,300
Transfer during the year from exploration and evaluation assets		—		—		—		1,985		—		1985		30
Disposals/ adjustments		(1)		(48)		(8,201)		(140)		(185)		(8,575)		(132)
Acquisition through business combination		—		3,140		10,510		—		196		13,846		213
Foreign exchange		4,170		1,241		4,914		2,110		186		12,621		194

March 31, 2018		190,865		112,698		777,610		646,790		11,058		1,739,021		26,709

Accumulated depreciation and impairment
April 01, 2016		77,721		17,345		185,734		566,368		6,180		853,348
Charge for the year		7,631		4,087		21,299		27,487		633		61,137
Disposals/adjustments		(1,397)		(708)		(640)		—		(644)		(3,389)
Foreign exchange		650		353		1,430		(13,822)		65		(11,324)
Impairment¹		—		—		—		4,225		—		4,225

March 31, 2017		84,605		21,077		207,823		584,258		6,234		903,997		13,884

Charge for the year		10,573		3,088		30,604		29,694		629		74,588		1,146
Disposals/adjustments		0		0		(7,296)		(140)		(105)		(7,542)		(116)
Impairment1(Charge/ (reversal))		41,140		823		1,847		(32,216)		31		11,625		179
Foreign exchange		1,453		732		3,091		1,827		98		7,202		110

March 31, 2018		137,771		25,720		236,069		583,423		6,887		989,870		15,203

Net book value / Carrying amount
March 31, 2017		85,860		85,465		505,775		49,499		3,898		730,497
Assets under Construction (including capital Advances)												146,630
												877,127
March 31, 2018		53,094		86,978		541,541		63,367		4,171		7,49,151		11,506
Assets under Construction (including capital advances)												139,445		2,142
												888,596		13,648

(a) (i) During the year ended March 31, 2018, the Group has recognized net impairment reversal of ₹ 93,278 million ($ 1,433 million) on its assets in the oil and gas segment comprising of:

I) Reversal of previously recorded impairment charge of ₹ 94,381 million ($ 1,450 million) relating to Rajasthan oil and gas block (“CGU”) mainly following the progress on key growth projects expected to result in the enhanced recovery of resources in a commercially viable manner leading to a higher forecast of oil production and adoption of integrated development strategy for various projects leading to savings in cost. Of this reversal, ₹ 32,216 million ($ 495 million) reversal has been recorded against oil and gas properties and ₹ 62,164 million ($ 955 million) reversal has been recorded against exploratory and evaluation assets. The recoverable amount of the CGU of ₹ 163,687 million ($ 2,514 million), was determined based on the fair value less costs of disposal approach, a level-3 valuation technique in the fair value hierarchy, as it more accurately reflects the recoverable amount based on our view of the assumptions that would be used by a market participant. This is based on the cash flows expected to be generated by the projected oil and natural gas production profiles up to the expected dates of cessation of production sharing contract (PSC)/cessation of production from each producing field based on current estimates of reserves and risked resources. Reserves assumptions for fair value less costs of disposal discounted cash flow tests consider all reserves that a market participant would consider when valuing the asset, which are usually broader in scope than the reserves used in a value-in-use test. Discounted cash flow analysis used to calculate fair value less costs of disposal use assumption for oil price of $ 62 per barrel for next one year (March 2017: $ 58 per barrel) and scales upto the long-term nominal price of $ 65 per barrel over the next 3 years thereafter (March 2017: $ 70 per barrel) derived from a consensus of various analyst recommendations. Thereafter, these have been escalated at a rate of 2.5% per annum (March 2017: 2.5% per annum). The cash flows are discounted using the post-tax nominal discount rate of 10.1% (March 2017: 10.2%) derived from the post-tax weighted average cost of capital after factoring in the risks ascribed to PSC extension including successful implementation of key growth projects. Based on the sensitivities carried out by the Group, change in crude price assumptions by $ 1/bbl and changes to discount rate by 0.5% would lead to a change in recoverable value by $ 64 million and $ 53 million respectively.

F-49

II) Impairment charge of ₹ 1,103 million ($ 17 million) representing the carrying value of assets relating to exploratory wells in Block PR-OSN-2004/1 which has been relinquished during the year.

(ii)

During the year ended March 31, 2017, the Group has recognised net impairment reversal of ₹ 845 million relating to Rajasthan oil and gas block. The impairment loss has been included in cost of sales. Of this net reversal, charge of ₹ 4,225 million has been recorded against oil and gas properties and reversal of ₹ 5,070 million against exploratory and evaluation assets.

For oil and gas properties, CGUs identified are on the basis of a PSC (‘Production Sharing Contract’) level as it is the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or group of assets.

(iii)

During the year ended 31 March 2016, the Group had recognised impairment charge on oil and gas assets of ₹ 322,998 million mainly relating to Rajasthan block, triggered by the significant fall in the crude oil prices. Of this charge, ₹ 74,854 million had been recorded against oil and gas properties and ₹ 248,144 million against exploratory and evaluation assets.

(b) During the year ended 31 March 2018, the Group has recognized total impairment charge of ₹ 48,599 million ($ 746 million) as against the net carrying value of ₹ 56,037 million ($ 861 million) on its iron ore assets in Goa in the iron ore segment. Pursuant to an order passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India on 07 February 2018, the second renewal of the mining leases granted by the State of Goa in 2014-15 to all miners including Vedanta were cancelled. Consequentially, all mining operations stopped with effect from 16 March 2018 until fresh mining leases (not fresh renewals or other renewals) and fresh environmental clearances are granted in accordance with the provisions of The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act.

Significant uncertainty exists over the resumption of mining at Goa under the current leases. The Group has assessed the recoverable value of all its assets and liabilities associated with existing mining leases which led to an impairment charge in March 2018. The recoverable value of the mining reserve (grouped under ‘mining property and leases’) has been assessed as Nil, as there is no reasonable certainty towards re-award of these mining leases. Similarly, upon consideration of past precedence, the provision for restoration and rehabilitation with respect to these mines has been assessed as Nil, as the Group believes that the same would be carried out by the future successful bidder at the time of mine closure. The net recoverable value of other assets and liabilities has been assessed at ₹ 7,415 million ($ 114 million) based on the fair value less cost of sales methodology using a level 3 valuation technique. The fair value was determined based on the estimated selling price of the individual assets using depreciated replacement cost method. Out of the total impairment charge of ₹ 48,599 million ($ 746 million), ₹ 43,841 million ($ 673 million) has been recognized under property, plant and equipment, ₹ 601 million ($ 9 million) has been recognized under assets under construction and ₹ 4,157 million ($ 64 million) has been recognized under other net assets.

(c) During the year ended 31 March 2018, the Group has recognised a loss of ₹ 2,513 million ($ 39 million) relating to certain items of asset under construction at the aluminium operations, which are no longer expected to be used.

(d) During the year ended 31 March 2017, Group has made a provision for impairment of ₹ 2,007 million relating to certain old items of asset under construction at the Alumina refinery operations.

(e) During the year ended 31 March 2016, the Group has recognized ₹ 14,900 million impairment charge in respect of the exploratory assets in West Africa (Western Cluster, Liberia) on account of low iron ore prices, geo-political factors and no plans for any substantive expenditure resulting in continued uncertainty in the project. Of this charge, ₹ 8,555 million has been recorded against Exploratory and Evaluation assets, ₹ 344 million in property, plant and equipment and ₹ 6,001 million has been recorded against assets under construction.

(f) During the year ended 31 March 2016, the Group has recognized ₹ 1,154 million impairment charge in the carrying amount of idle assets grouped under assets under construction at Bellary, Karnataka in India.

(g) During the year ended 31 March 2016, the Group has recognised ₹ 497 million impairment charge in property, plant and equipment relating to its operation in the Copper Mines of Tasmania Pty Ltd, Australia on account of extended care and maintenance, lower copper prices and continued uncertainty in start-up of operations.

Additions includes net deferred stripping cost addition of ₹ 265 million and ₹ 440 million ($7 million) for the years ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Certain property, plant and equipment are pledged as collateral against borrowings, the details related to which have been described in Note 17 on “Borrowings”. Interest (net) capitalised as part of property, plant and equipment was ₹ 6,690 million and ₹ 3,484 million ($ 54 million) for the years ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively.

Depreciation charge for the year includes ₹ 6 million and ₹ Nil ($ Nil) capitalised as property, plant and equipment during the year ended March 31, 2017 and 2018 respectively.

Assets under construction as at March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 is after accumulated impairment charge of ₹ 8,115 million, ₹ 10,122 million and ₹ 13,236 million ($ 203 million) respectively.

F-50

The Division Bench of the Hon’ble High Court of Chhattisgarh has vide its order dated February 25, 2010, upheld that BALCO is in legal possession of 1,804.67 acres of Government land. Subsequent to the said order, the State Government has decided to issue the lease deed in favour of BALCO after the issue of forest land is decided by the Hon’ble Supreme Court. In the proceedings before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, pursuant to public interest litigations filed, it has been alleged that land in possession of BALCO is being used in contravention of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 even though the said land has been in its possession prior to the promulgation of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 on which its Aluminium complex, allied facilities and township were constructed between 1971-76. The Central Empowered Committee of the Supreme Court has already recommended ex-post facto diversion of the forest land in possession of BALCO. The matter is presently sub-judice before the Hon’ble Supreme Court.

Also refer note 3. W (xii) relating to assets at Copper plant where operations are suspended.

Plant and equipment includes refineries, smelters, power plants and related facilities, data processing equipment and electrical fittings.

8 (b) Exploration and evaluation assets


	Gambsberg Mine Project		Oil and Gas		Total		Total
	₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		US dollars in million
Cost
April 01, 2016		9,508		96,391		105,899
Additions		—		1,234		1,234
Transfer during the year to property plant and equipment		(9,508)		(1,103)		(10,611)
Unsuccessful Exploration Cost		—		(407)		(407)
Foreign exchange		—		(2,333)		(2,333)
Impairment reversal*		—		5,070		5,070

March 31, 2017		—		98,852		98,852		1,518

Additions		—		1,131		1,131		17
Deductions/ adjustments		—		(633)		(633)		(10)
Transfer during the year to property plant and equipment		—		(1,985)		(1,985)		(30)
Unsuccessful Exploration Cost		—		(1)		(1)		(0)
Foreign exchange		—		880		879		14
Impairment reversal*		—		61,061		61,062		938

March 31, 2018		—		159,305		159,305		2,447

Exploration and Evaluation Assets as at:
March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)		—		2,447		2,447

*	Refer foot note 1 to note 8 (a)

F-51

8 (c) Intangible assets


	Port Concession Rights		Software License		Others		Total		Total
	₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		US dollars in million
Cost
April 01, 2016		6,017		2,368		657		9,042
Additions		29		496		56		581
Deletions		(70)		(39)		—		(109)
Foreign exchange difference		—		(25)		—		(25)

March 31, 2017		5,976		2,800		713		9,489		146

Additions		8		272		11		291		4
Acquisition through Business Combination		—		17		2,031		2,048		31
Deletions		(20)		(99)		—		(119)		(2)
Foreign exchange difference		—		24		167		191		3

March 31, 2018		5,964		3,014		2,922		11,900		182

Accumulated amortisation and impairment


	Port Concession Rights		Software License		Others		Total		Total
	₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		₹ in million		US dollars in million
April 01, 2016		689		1,973		80		2,742
Charge for the year		231		184		28		443
Deletions		(10)		(37)		—		(47)
Foreign exchange difference		—		(27)		—		(27)

March 31, 2017		910		2,093		108		3,111		48

Charge for the year		226		293		52		571		8
Deletions		(3)		(99)		0		(102)		(2)
Foreign exchange difference		—		15		2		17		0

March 31, 2018		1,133		2,302		162		3,597		54

Other Intangibles as at:
March 31, 2017		5,066		707		605		6,378
March 31, 2018		4,831		712		2,760		8,303		128
March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)

(1)

Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited (VGCB), a special purpose vehicle, was incorporated for the coal berth mechanization and upgrades at Visakhapatnam port. VGCB is wholly owned by Vedanta Limited as on March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. The project is to be carried out on a design, build, finance, operate, transfer basis and the concession agreement between Visakhapatnam Port and VGCB was signed in June 2010. In October 2010, VGCB was awarded with the concession after fulfilling conditions stipulated as a precedent to the concession agreement. Visakhapatnam Port has provided, in lieu of license fee an exclusive license to VGCB for designing, engineering, financing, constructing, equipping, operating, maintaining, and replacing the project/project facilities and services. The concession period is 30 years from the date of the award of the concession. The capacity of upgraded berth would be 10.18 mmtpa and that the Vishakhapatnam Port would be entitled to receive 38.10% share of the gross revenue as royalty. VGCB is entitled to recover a tariff from the user(s) of the project facilities and services as per Tariff Authority for Major Project (TAMP) notification. The tariff rates are linked to the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) and would accordingly be adjusted as specified in the concession agreement every year. The ownership of all infrastructure assets, buildings, structures, berths, wharfs, equipment and other immovable and movable assets constructed, installed, located, created or provided by VGCB at the project site and/or in the port’s assets pursuant to concession agreement would be with VGCB until expiry of this concession agreement. The cost of any repair, replacement or restoration of the project facilities and services shall be borne by VGCB during the concession period. VGCB has to transfer all its rights, titles and interest in the project facilities and services free of cost to Visakhapatnam Port at the end of the concession period.

9. Non-controlling Interests (‘NCI’) and joint operations

Details of subsidiaries that have material non-controlling interests

The Group consists of a parent company, Vedanta Limited, incorporated in India and a number of subsidiaries held directly and indirectly by the Group which operate and are incorporated around the world. Note 31 to the financial statements lists the details of share holdings in the subsidiaries.

The Non-controlling interests that are material to the Group relate to Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.

F-52

As at March 31, 2018, NCIs hold an economic interest by virtue of their shareholding of 35.08%, 49.00%, 26.00% and 48.37% in HZL, BALCO, BMM and ASI respectively. The NCI holdings as at March 31, 2017 were 35.08%, 49.00% and 26.00% in HZL, BALCO and BMM respectively.

The principal place of business of HZL and BALCO is in India, BMM is in South Africa and ASI is in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.

The table below shows summarized financial information of subsidiaries of the Group that have non-controlling interests. The amounts are presented before inter-company eliminations.


	As at March 31, 2017
	(₹ in million)
	HZL		BALCO		BMM		Total
Current assets		346,079		11,400		6,185		363,664
Non-current assets		169,958		121,735		21,483		313,176
Current liabilities		201,159		56,254		4,947		262,360
Non-current liabilities		2,043		29,341		6,496		37,880
Equity attributable to equity holders of the Parent		203,098		24,245		12,007		239,350
Non-controlling interests		109,737		23,295		4,218		137,250


	As at March 31, 2018
	(₹ in million)
	HZL		BALCO		Others		Total
Current assets		241,462		20,211		9,386		271,059
Non-current assets		184,092		117,505		58,386		359,983
Current liabilities		59,379		49,562		4,747		113,688
Non-current liabilities		2,026		40,159		38,791		80,976
Equity attributable to equity holders of the Parent		236,412		24,478		17,826		278,716
Non-controlling interests*		127,737		23,517		6,110		157,364

*	₹ 298 million ($ 5 million) attributable to NCI of ASI transferred to put option liability. Refer note 1 –Business Combination (Acquisition of ASI).


	As at March 31, 2018
	(US Dollars In Million)
	HZL		BALCO		Others		Total
Current assets		3,709		310		144		4,163
Non-current assets		2,827		1,805		897		5,529
Current liabilities		912		761		73		1,746
Non-current liabilities		31		617		596		1,244
Equity attributable to equity holders of the Parent		3,631		376		273		4,280
Non-controlling interests		1,962		361		94		2,417

F-53


	For the Year Ended March 31, 2017
	(₹ In Million)
	HZL		Cairn		BALCO		BMM		Total
Revenue		171,163		82,041		57,210		8,281		318,695
Expenses		83,584		51,138		57,293		6,657		198,672

Profit / (loss) for the year		87,579		30,903		(83)		1,624		120,023

Profit / (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Parent		56,858		18,495		(42)		1,200		76,511
Profit / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		30,721		12,408		(41)		424		43,512

Profit / (loss) for the year		87,579		30,903		(83)		1,624		120,023

Other comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to the equity holders of the Parent		(19)		(3,963)		(119)		830		(3,271)
Other comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		(10)		(2,658)		(114)		290		(2,492)

Other comprehensive income / (loss) during the year		(29)		(6,621)		(233)		1,120		(5,763)

Total comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to the equity holders of the Parent		56,839		14,532		(161)		2,030		73,240
Total comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		30,711		9,750		(155)		714		41,020

Total comprehensive income / (loss) during the year		87,550		24,282		(316)		2,744		114,260

Dividends paid / payable to non-controlling interests, including dividend tax		52,447		2,718		—		—		55,165

Net cash inflow from operating activities		75,772		54,464		7,857		5,677		143,770
Net cash inflow/ (outflow) from investing activities		38,161		(54,981)		(6,120)		(3,966)		(26,906)
Net cash (outflow) from financing activities		(112,550)		(5,997)		(1,748)		—		(120,295)

Net cash inflow / (outflow)		1,383		(6,514)		(11)		1,711		(3,431)

F-54


	For the Year Ended March 31, 2018
	(₹ In Million)
	HZL		BALCO		Others*		Total
Revenue		218,726		87,616		18,106		324,448
Expenses		126,129		87,698		14,457		228,284

Profit / (loss) for the year		92,597		(82)		3,649		96,164

Profit / (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Parent		60,116		(42)		2,886		62,960
Profit / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		32,481		(40)		763		33,204

Profit / (loss) for the year		92,597		(82)		3,649		96, 164

Other comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to the equity holders of the Parent		(389)		273		2,022		1,906
Other comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		(208)		262		691		745

Other comprehensive income / (loss) during the year		(597)		535		2,713		2,651

Total comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to the equity holders of the Parent		59,726		232		4,902		64,860
Total comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		32,273		222		1,454		33,949

Total comprehensive income / (loss) during the year		91,999		454		6,356		98,809

Dividends paid / payable to non-controlling interests, including dividend tax		(14,273)		—		—		(14,273)

Net cash inflow from operating activities		98,367		7,440		6,317		112,124
Net cash (outflow) / inflow from investing activities		87,961		(2,000)		(12,300)		73,661
Net cash (outflow)/ inflow from financing activities		(186,488)		(5,490)		3,699		(188,279)

Net cash (outflow)		(160)		(50)		(2,284)		(2,494)

*	Refer note 1 –Business Combination (Acquisition of ASI).


	For the Year Ended March 31, 2018
	(USD In Million)
	HZL		BALCO		Others		Total
Revenue		3,359		1,346		278		4,983
Expenses		1,937		1,348		222		3,507

Profit / (loss) for the year		1,422		(2)		56		1,476

Profit / (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Parent		923		(1)		43		965
Profit / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		499		(1)		13		511

Profit / (loss) for the year		1,422		(2)		56		1,476

Other comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to the equity holders of the Parent		(6)		4		31		29
Other comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		(3)		4		10		11

Other comprehensive income / (loss) during the year		(9)		8		41		40

Total comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to the equity holders of the Parent		917		4		75		996
Total comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests		496		3		23		522

Total comprehensive income / (loss) during the year		1,413		7		98		1,518

Dividends paid / payable to non-controlling interests, including dividend tax		(219)		—		—		(219)

Net cash inflow from operating activities		1,511		114		97		1,722
Net cash (outflow) / inflow from investing activities		1,351		(31)		(189)		1,131
Net cash (outflow)/ inflow from financing activities		(2,864)		(84)		57		(2,891)

Net cash (outflow)		(2)		(1)		(35)		(38)

F-55

The effect of changes in ownership interests in subsidiaries that did not result in a loss of control is as follows:


	For the Year Ended March 31, 2017
	(₹ In Million)
	HZL	Cairn		BALCO		BMM		Total
Purchase of NCI ^#	—		(188)		—		—		(188)

Changes in NCI ^#	—		(213,515)		—		—		(213,515)

For the Year Ended March 31, 2018

(₹ In Million)

HZL

BALCO

Others

Total

Changes in NCI ^#

—

438

For the Year Ended March 31, 2018

(USD In Million)

HZL

BALCO

Others

Total

Changes in NCI

—

#	Refer note 1 – Business Combination of ASI and consolidated statements of changes in equity for details

Joint Operations

The Group participates in several unincorporated joint operations which involve the joint control of assets used in oil and gas exploration and producing activities which are as follows:


		Participating Interest (%)
Operating Blocks	Area	As at March 31, 2017		As at March 31, 2018
India:
Ravva block – Exploration and production	Krishna Godavari		22.50		22.50
CB-OS/2 – Exploration	Cambay Offshore		60.00		60.00
CB-OS/2 – Development & production	Cambay Offshore		40.00		40.00
RJ-ON-90/1 – Exploration	Rajasthan Onshore		100.00		100.00
RJ-ON-90/1 – Development & production	Rajasthan Onshore		70.00		70.00
KG-OSN-2009/3 – Exploration	Krishna Godavari Offshore		100.00		100.00
South Africa Block1 – Exploration	Orange Basin South Africa Offshore		60.00		60.00

Relinquished block
PR-OSN-2004/1 – Exploration⁽²⁾	Palar Basin Offshore		35.00		—
MB-DWN-2009/1⁽¹⁾ – Exploration	Mumbai Deep Water		—		—

Non Operating Blocks
India:
KG-ONN-2003/1⁽³⁾ Exploration and appraisal	Krishna Godavari Onshore		49.00		49.00

(1)	Relinquished on April 15, 2016

(2)	Relinquished on June 30, 2017

(3)	Operatorship has been transferred to Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) w.e.f. July 7, 2014

F-56

10. Financial asset investments

Financial asset investments represent investments classified and accounted for as available-for-sale investments

Movements for the year ended March 31,

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

As at April 01,

432

695

Changes in fair value

263

900

As at March 31,

695

1,595

These investments represent investments in equity securities that present the Group with opportunities for return through dividend income and gains in value. The fair value of quoted securities are determined by reference to published price quotations in active markets. The fair value of unquoted securities are determined by reference to discounted cash flows model.

During the year ended March 31, 2017 pursuant to demerger of Sterlite Technologies Limited into Sterlite Technologies Limited and Sterlite Power Transmission Limited, 952,859 shares of Sterlite Power Transmission Limited have been allotted to the Company.

F-57

11. Other non-current assets


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Financial
Bank Deposits¹		91		1,238		19
Site restoration assets²		3,859		4,705		72
Claims receivable		71		646		10
Trade receivables³		13,540		21,485		331
Others		1,739		1,975		30
Total - Financial		19,300		30,049		462

Non Financial
Deposits with Government Authorities		3,726		5,961		91
Claims and other receivable		11,990		7,897		120
Total - Non Financial		15,716		13,858		211

	35,016		43,907		673

¹	includes fixed deposit of ₹ 199 million ($ 3 million) under lien with bank and ₹ 1,035 million ($ 16 million) under interest reserve created against interest payment on loans from banks as at March 31, 2018

²	includes deposit in Site Restoration Fund of ₹ 3,275 million and ₹ 3,986 million ($ 61 million) and investment in a rehabilition trust of ₹ 584 million and ₹ 719 ($ 11 million) as at March 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively.

Other non-current assets and Trade and other receivables include receivables (net of provisions) of the power division aggregating to (a) ₹ 8,930 million and ₹ 7,670 million ($ 118 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively held back by a customer, owing to certain disputes relating to computation of tariffs and differential revenue recognised with respect to tariffs pending finalisation by the state electricity regulatory commission; (b) ₹ 5,830 million and ₹ 8,020 million ($ 123 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively held back by another customer on account of disputes mainly relating to the determination of the calorific value of coal which has been adjudicated in favour of the Group by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India and (c) ₹ 2,620 million and ₹ 8,310 million ($ 128 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively relating to tax benefits available at the time of plant set up and certain other matters, which the Group has litigated. In all these matters, the Group has obtained separate independent legal advice(s) or considered favourable judgements in support of their claim and believes that it is highly probable that the matters would be settled in their favour and does not expect any material loss on ultimate settlement.

12. Inventories

Inventories consist of the following:


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Raw materials and consumables		55,643		83,300		1,279
Work-in-progress		33,171		30,192		464
Finished goods		8,452		6,392		98

		97,266		119,884		1,841

Inventories with a carrying amount of ₹ 51,249 million and ₹ 81,392 million ($ 1,250 million) have been pledged as security against certain bank borrowings of the Group as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively. (Refer note 17)

F-58

Inventory held at net realizable value amounted to ₹ 449 million and ₹ 615 million ($9 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively. The write down on this inventory amounted to ₹ 120 million and ₹ 837 million ($ 12 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively.

13. Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables (net of allowances) consist of the following:


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Financial
Trade receivables^#		20,328		31,651		486
Receivables from related parties		562		426		7
Loans to related parties		692		695		11
Cash call / receivables from joint Operations		8,449		6,429		99
Other receivables*		3,191		5,348		81
Total - Financial		33,222		44,549		684

Non Financial
Balance with Government authorities		6,832		7,553		116
Prepayments		1,774		1,882		29
Advances for supplies		11,640		18,792		289
Advance for supplies to related party		1,390		3,857		59
Other receivables		5,418		7,630		117
Total - Non Financial		27,054		39,714		610

	60,276		84,263		1,294

*	includes deposit held as collateral in respect of closure cost and future redundancy payments payable to employees of Lisheen on termination of their employment on or before the mine closure of ₹ 914 million as at March 31, 2017.

^#	refer footnote 3 to Note 11

The credit period given to customers ranges from zero to 90 days. Other receivables primarily include deposits and interest receivable. For terms and conditions of loans to related parties, refer Note 31 on related party disclosures.

Trade receivables with a carrying value of ₹ 19,172 million and ₹ 33,643 million ($ 517 million) have been given as collateral towards borrowings as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. (Refer note 17)

Allowances for trade and other receivables

The change in the allowance for trade and other receivables (current and non-current) is as follows:


	2017			2018			2018
	(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)			(US dollars in million)
As at April 01,		17,657			19,443			299
Allowance made during the year		2,425			7,606			117
Reversals during the year		(304	)		(2,161	)		(33	)
Foreign Exchange difference		(335	)		65			1

As at March 31,		19,443			24,953			384

F-59

14. Short-term investments

Short-term investments consist of the following:

As at March 31,

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

Bank deposits¹

55,790

30,633

471

Other investments²^,3

468,895

285,363

4,383

524,685

315,996

4,854

Other investments include mutual fund investments and bonds and are fair valued through the consolidated statements of profit or loss. Bank deposits are made for the periods of more than three months depending on the cash requirements of the respective companies and earn interest at the respective deposit rates.

Includes ₹ 2,350 million and ₹ 2,012 million ($ 31 million) on lien with banks, ₹ Nil and ₹ 597 million ($ 9 million) deposit held as collateral in respect of closure cost and future redundancy payments payable to employees of Lisheen on termination of their employment on or before the mine closure, and ₹ 398 million and ₹ 391 million ($ 6 million) held as margin money as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

2.	Includes ₹ 5,246 million and ₹ 5,340 million ($ 82 million) invested in a related party as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

3.	Includes ₹ Nil and ₹ 4,118 million ($ 63 million) offered as security by a subsidiary against overdraft facility from a bank as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

15. Restricted cash and cash equivalents

Restricted cash and cash equivalents consist of the following:

As at March 31,

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

Cash at banks¹

10,118

2,314

Short term deposits²

1,629

169

11,747

2,483

Cash at banks is restricted in use as it relates to unclaimed dividends of ₹ 3,677 million and ₹ 909 million ($ 14 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. Further it includes ₹ 6,441 million and ₹ 1,405 ($ 21 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 representing unpaid dividend amount which is required to be remitted to minority shareholders within 30 days from the date of declaration of dividend. The said amount of unpaid dividend has been classified as cash and cash equivalent for the purpose of Statement of Cash flows.

2	includes ₹ 1,114 million and ₹ Nil of bank deposits on lien with banks, ₹ 515 million and ₹ 169 ($ 3 million) held as collateral in respect of closure cost as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

16. Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of the following:

As at March 31,

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

Cash at banks and in hand*

85,631

34,696

533

Short-term deposits

11,571

7,496

115

97,202

42,192

648

F-60

Short-term deposits are made for periods of between one day and three months, depending on the immediate cash requirements of the respective companies, and earn interest at the respective short-term deposit rates.

*	Include ₹ 75,437 million and ₹ 16,459 million ($ 253 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively in unpaid dividend account of the subsidiary, attributable to the Company’s shareholding which has been remitted post year end.

17. Borrowings

Short-term borrowings represent borrowings with an original maturity of less than one year and current portion of long-term borrowings. Long-term borrowings represent borrowings with an original maturity of greater than one year. Maturity distribution is based on contractual maturities. Interest rates on floating-rate debt are linked to benchmark rates.

Short-term borrowings consist of:

As at March 31,

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

Banks and financial institutions^a

322,436

219,512

3,371

Current portion of long-term borrowings

90,690

94,188

1,447

Short-term and current portion of long term borrowings

413,126

313,700

4,818

Long-term borrowings consist of:


	As at March 31,
	2017			2018			2018
	(₹ in million)			(₹ in million)			(US dollars in million)
Banks and financial institutions		255,557			214,180			3,290
Non-convertible debentures		136,751			115,747			1,778
Redeemable preference shares (refer note 1)		30,100			30,100			462
Non-convertible bonds		—			1,136			17
Other		936			913			14

Long-term borrowings		423,344			362,076			5,561
Less: Current portion of long-term borrowings		(90,690	)		(94,188	)		(1,447	)

Long-term borrowings, net of current portion		332,654			267,888			4,114

^a	Includes ₹ 68,080 million as at March 31, 2017 which became current pursuant to cancellation of shares held by TMHL in Cairn India, upon the merger being effective as referred to in note 1. The same was classified as a non-current borrowing in earlier periods.

Bank loans availed by the Group are subject to certain covenants relating to interest service coverage, current ratio, debt service coverage ratio, total outside liabilities to total net worth, fixed assets coverage ratio, ratio of total term liabilities to net worth, debt to EBITDA ratio and return on fixed assets. The Group has complied with the covenants as per the terms of the loan agreement.

The Company has discounted trade receivables on recourse basis ₹ 1,656 million and ₹ 7,830 million ($ 120 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. Accordingly, the monies received on this account are shown as borrowings as the trade receivables do not meet de-recognition criteria.

F-61

Details of Non-convertible debentures issued by the Group have been provided below-


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
10.25% due August 2017		5,000		—		—
9.70% due September 2017		1,800		—		—
9.36% due October 2017		9,752		—		—
9.27% due November 2017		2,000		—		—
9.36% due December 2017		5,250		—		—
8.91% due April 2018		9,978		9,998		154
9.10% due April 2018**		24,990		24,999		384
9.17% due July 2018**		12,000		12,000		184
7.60% due May 2019		—		3,506		55
7.75% due September 2019		2,500		2,500		38
8.65% due September 2019		1,500		1,500		23
8.25% due October 2019		3,000		3,000		46
7.50% due November 2019**		2,000		2,000		31
8.20% due November 2019		3,000		3,000		46
7.90% due March 2020**		—		1,998		31
7.95% due April 2020**		3,000		3,000		46
8.70% due April 2020		6,000		6,000		92
8.00% due July 2020		—		2,996		46
7.85% due August 2020		—		5,000		77
9.45% due August 2020		19,990		20,000		307
8.25% due September 2020		—		4,250		65
7.80% due December 2020		—		5,000		77
8.75% due April 2021		2,500		2,500		38
8.75% due September 2021		2,500		2,500		38
9.40% due October 2022*		4,998		—		—
9.40% due November 2022*		4,997		—		—
9.24% due December 2022*		4,999		—		—
9.24% due December 2022*		4,997		—		—

Total		136,751		115,747		1,778

*	The NCDs have been pre-paid during the year

**	The debenture holders of these NCDs and the Company have put and call option at the end of 5 years from the respective date of the allotment of the NCDs

F-62

Security Details

The Group has taken borrowings in various countries towards funding of its acquisitions, capital expenditure and working capital requirements. The borrowings comprise of funding arrangements from various banks and financial institutions taken by the parent and subsidiaries. Out of the total borrowings of ₹ 745,780 million and ₹ 581,588 million ($ 8,932 million) shown above, total secured borrowings are ₹ 461,610 million and ₹ 349,365 million ($ 5,365 million) and unsecured borrowings are ₹ 284,170 million and ₹ 232,223 million ($ 3,567 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. The details of security provided by the Group in various countries, to various banks on the assets of Parent and subsidiaries are as follows:


		As at March 31,
		2017		2018		2018
		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Project buyers’ credit from banks (grouped under banks and financial institutions)	First pari passu charge on the entire current assets of the Company, both present and future. First pari passu charge on all rights, title, claim and benefit in all the whole of the current assets of the borrower, both present and future, including stock & raw material, stock in process, semi-finished, finished good and stores & spares not relating to plant and machinery (consumable stores & spares)		—		1,254		18
	Secured by first charge on entire stock of raw material, semi-finished goods, finished goods, consumable stores and spares and such other movables including book debts and bills of the Company’s Iron ore division at Goa and charge on Iron ore Goa’s all other current assets including outstanding monies and receivables on pari passu basis		—		16		1
	Other secured project buyers’ credit from banks		1,489		—		—

Working capital loans (grouped under banks and financial institutions)	Secured by first pari passu charge on current assets, present and future of the Company		6,618		3,078		47
	Secured by hypothecation of stock of raw materials, work-in-progress, semi-finished, finished products, consumable stores and spares, bills receivables, book debts and all other movables, both present and future in BALCO. The charges rank pari passu among banks under the multiple banking arrangements, for fund and non-fund based facilities		—		7		1
	First pari passu charge on the entire current assets of the Company, both present and future. First pari passu charge on all rights, title, claim and benefit in all the whole of the current assets of the borrower, both present and future, including stock & raw material, stock in process, semi finished, finished goods and stores & spares not relating to plant and machinery (consumable stores & spares)		—		6,389		97
	Secured by first charge on entire stock of raw material, semi-finished goods, finished goods, consumable stores and spares and all book debts of the Company’s Iron ore division at Goa on pari passu basis.		1,656		1,662		26
	Secured by a first pari passu charge on all present and future inventories, book debts and all other current assets of TSPL		—		5,886		90
	Secured by hypothecation of stock of raw materials, work-in-progress, semi-finished, finished products, consumable stores and spares, bills receivables, book debts and all other movables, both present and future in BALCO. The charges rank pari passu among banks under the multiple banking arrangements, both for fund based and non-fund based facilities.		—		1,701		26

F-63


		As at March 31,
		2017		2018		2018
		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)

External commercial borrowings (grouped under banks and financial institutions)	The facility is secured by first pari passu charge on all movable property, plant and equipments related to power plants and aluminium smelters located at Korba both present and future along with secured lenders		4,791		4,858		75
	The facility is secured by first pari passu charge on all movable project assets related to 1200 MW power project and 3.25 LTPA Smelter project both present and future along with secured lenders at BALCO		3,231		3,252		50
	Other secured external commercial borrowings		15,125		—		—

Non-convertible Debentures	Secured by way of movable fixed assets in relation to the Lanjigarh Refinery Expansion Project including 210 MW Power Project for the Lanjigarh Refinery Expansion Project at Lanjigarh, Orissa		11,999		11,999		184
	a) Secured by way of “movable fixed assets” in relation to the 1.6 MTPA Aluminium Smelter alongwith 1215 MW (135MW * 9) captive power plant located in Jharsuguda and 1 MTPA Alumina Refinery alongwith 90 MW Co-generation power plant located at Lanjigarh in Odisha State and shall include all present movable plant and machinery, machinery spares, tools and accessories, fixtures, mechanical and electrical equipments, machinery and all other movable fixed assets and all estate, right, title, interest, property, claims and demands whatsoever in relation to assets.
	b) Secured by whole of the movable fixed assets of the 1.6 MTPA Aluminium Smelter along with 1215 MW captive power plant in Jharsuguda and 1 MTPA alumina refinery alongwith 75 MW co-generation plant in Lanjigarh, including its movable plant and machinery, capital works-in-process, machinery spares, tools and accessories, and other movable fixed assets		25,000		25,000		384
	Secured by first Pari Passu charge on the movable fixed assets both present and future of 2400 MW (600 MW*4)Jharsuguda Power Plant		24,999		24,999		384
	Secured by way of first ranking pari passu charge on movable fixed assets in relation to the Lanjigarh Refinery Expansion Project (having capacity beyond 2 MTPA and upto 6 MTPA) situated at Lanjigarh, Orissa. The Lanjigarh Refinery Expansion Project shall specifically exclude the ‘1 MTPA alumina refinery of the Company along with 90 MW power plant in Lanjigarh’ and all its related capacity expansions.		15,500		15,500		238

F-64


		As at March 31,
		2017		2018		2018
		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
	Secured by way of movable fixed assets of the Lanjigarh Refinery Expansion Project including 210 MW Power Project for the Lanjigarh Refinery Expansion Project with a minimum security cover of 1 time of the outstanding amount of the debenture		—		8,496		130
	Secured by First pari passu charge over Plant, Property, Equipment (excluding coal block) of BALCO.		—		4,994		77
	Secured by first pari passu charge on movable and/ or immovable fixed assets of TSPL with a minimum asset cover of 1 time during the tenure of NCD.		5,500		10,500		161
	Secured by first pari passu charge on movable and/ or immovable fixed assets of TSPL with a minimum asset cover of 1.1 times during the tenure of NCD.		9,983		9,998		154
	Secured by way of first pari-passu charge on the specific movable and/ or immovable property, plant and equipment of VGCB, as may be identified and notified by the Issuer to the Security Trustee from time to time, with minimum asset coverage of 1 time of the aggregate face value of bonds outstanding at any point of time.		—		4,250		65
	Other secured redeemable non-convertible debentures		43,770		—		—

Term Loans (grouped under banks and financial institutions)	Secured by first pari passu charge on fixed assets of TSPL both present and future.		36,401		40,754		626
	Secured by first pari passu charge by way of hypothecation on the entire movable property, plant and equipments (including CWIP) of the Aluminium and Power Project, both present and future except for assets acquired under buyer’s credit where there is a second charge; and mortgage by deposit of documents of title of the land pertaining to the property, plant and equipments. Aluminium and Power project shall mean the manufacturing facilities comprising of (i) alumina refinery having output of 1 MTPA along with co-generation captive power plant with an aggregate capacity of 75 MW at Lanjigarh, Orissa. (ii) aluminium smelter having an output of 1.6 MTPA along with a 1215 (9x135) MW CPP at Jharsuguda, Orissa.		26,588		20,480		315
	Secured by creating first pari-passu charge by way of hypothecation of the movable property, plant and equipments except for assets acquired under buyer’s credit where there is a second charge, and mortgage on all the immovable property, plant and equipments of the Aluminium Division of the Company, both present and future, including leasehold land.		92,923		55,206		848

F-65


		As at March 31,
		2017		2018		2018
		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
	Secured by a first pari passu charge by way of hypothecation on the entire movable property, plant and equipments (including CWIP) of the project at the Company’s Jharsuguda Aluminium division except for assets acquired under buyer’s credit where there is a second charge, both present and future; and mortgage by deposit of documents of title of the land pertaining to the property, plant and equipments.		19,421		18,905		290
	Secured by aggregate of the property, plant and equipments of Aluminium Division and the Lanjigarh Expansion Project reduced by the outstanding amount of other borrowings having first pari passu charge on the property, plant and equipments of Aluminium division and the Lanjigarh Expansion Project except for assets acquired under buyer’s credit where there is a second charge.		12,450		12,332		189
	Secured by first pari passu charge on movable property, plant and equipments (except for coal block) of BALCO		—		15,110		232
	Secured by first pari passu charge on all present and future moveable fixed assets of BALCO including but not limited to plant & machinery, spares, tools and accessories of borrower (excluding of coal block assets ) by way of a deed of hypothecation.		—		9,879		152
	Charge on Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited’s (CEH) all Banks Accounts, Cash & Investments, all receivables and current assets (but excluding any shares issued to CEH by its subsidaries, all of its right, title and interest in and to Production Sharing Contract and all of its fixed assets of any nature).		—		27,730		426
	Other secured term loans from banks		104,165		—		—

Other (grouped under banks and financial institutions)	Secured by way of first charge over AvanStrate’s asset		—		5,130		79

	Total		461,610		349,365		5,365

Movement in borrowings during the year is provided below:


	Borrowings due within one year		Borrowings due after one year		Total		Total
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
As at April 01, 2016		182,328		493,784		676,112
Cash flow		144,574		(108,525)		36,049
Other non cash changes		88,584		(55,045)		33,539
Foreign currency translation differences		(2,360)		2,440		80

As at March 31, 2017		413,126		332,654		745,780		11,454

Cash flow		(180,655)		7,974		(172,681)		(2,652)
Borrowings on acquisition through business combination		—		6,308		6,308		97
Other non cash changes		81,640		(80,097)		1,543		24
Foreign currency translation differences		(411)		1,049		638		10

As at March 31, 2018		313,700		267,888		581,588		8,933

F-66

18. Acceptances

Acceptances consist of:

As at March 31,

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

Payable under trade financing arrangements

113,304

94,173

1,446

113,304

94,173

1,446

Acceptances are availed from offshore banks at an interest rate ranging from 1.5% to 3.5% per annum and are repayable within one year from the date of draw down, based on the letter of comfort issued under working capital facilities sanctioned by domestic banks. Some of these working capital facilities are secured by first pari-passu charge over the present and future current assets of the Group.

F-67

19. Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables consist of:


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Financial
Dividend payable³		72,170		1,405		22
Trade payables^1,4		62,949		84,345		1,295
Creditors for capital expenditure		37,444		33,131		509
Security deposit and retentions		9,867		9,011		138
Other liabilities-current		32,441		49,167		755
Total - Financial		214,871		177,059		2,719

Non Financial
Statutory Liabilities		19,072		25,973		399
Advances from customers^2,4		47,354		49,442		759
Other payables⁴		4,497		3,584		56

Total - Non Financial		70,923		78,999		1,214

	285,794		256,058		3,933

The fair value of trade and other payables is not materially different from the carrying values presented.

¹	Trade payables are non-interest bearing and are normally settled within 1 day to 180 days terms.

Advances from customers include amounts received under long term supply agreements. The advance payment plus a fixed rate of return is settled by supplying goods as per the terms of the respective agreements. Of the outstanding advance relating to Copper division an amount of ₹ 10,442 million ($ 160 million) has been repaid in July, 2018 consequent to suspension of operations in India subsequent to the year end (refer 3 (W) (xii))

³	Includes payable to related party ₹ 32,983 million and ₹ Nil (refer note 31) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

⁴.	Includes payables to related party ₹ 732 million and ₹ 902 million ($ 13 million) (refer note 31) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

20. Provisions

Restoration,
rehabilitation
and
environmental
(a)

Other
(b)

Total

(₹ in
million)

As at April 01, 2016

11,513

912

12,425

Additions

1,162

513

1,675

Utilized

(600)

(310)

(910)

Change in estimate

6,641

—

6,641

Unwinding of discount

844

—

844

Exchange differences

(286)

(25)

(311)

As at March 31, 2017

19,274

1,090

20,364

Classification as at March 31, 2017

Current

564

567

1,131

Non-current

18,710

523

19,233

19,274

1,090

20,364

F-68


	Restoration, rehabilitation and environmental (a)		Other (b)		Total		Total
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
As at April 01, 2017		19,274		1,090		20,364		313
Additions		1,738		435		2,173		33
Amounts used		(405)		(52)		(457)		(7)
Unused amounts reversed		(418)		—		(418)		(7)
Unwinding of discount		837		—		837		13
Change in estimates		84		—		84		1
Reclassifications		—		(7)		(7)		—
Additions upon acquisition through business combination		236		3		239		4
Exchange differences		628		21		649		10

As at March 31, 2018		21,974		1,490		23,464		360


Classification as at March 31, 2018
Current		483		952		1,435		22
Non-current		21,491		538		22,029		338

		21,974		1,490		23,464		360

(a) Restoration, rehabilitation and environmental

The provision for restoration, rehabilitation and environmental liabilities represents the management’s best estimate of the costs which will be incurred in the future to meet the Group’s obligations under existing Indian, Australian, Namibian, South Africa and Irish law and the terms of the Group’s mining and other licenses and contractual arrangements.

The principal restoration and rehabilitation provisions are recorded where a legal obligation exists relating to the mining/ oil and gas assets, where costs are expected to be incurred in restoring the site of production facilities at the end of the life. The Group recognizes site restoration liability to rectify these environmental damages.

An obligation to incur restoration, rehabilitation and environment costs arises when environmental disturbances are caused by the development or ongoing production from a producing field/ mine.

These amounts calculated by considering discount rates within the range of 2% to 12%, becomes payable on closure of mine/expiry of license and are expected to be incurred over a period of one to thirty years. The discount rates at major units are in the range of 2% to 12% at Zinc International and of 2% to 4% at Oil and Gas division.

During the last year, the Group revised the discount rate applied to the decommissioning liability in relation to the Group’s oil and gas segment from 8% (March 31, 2016) to 3.5% (March 31, 2017) p.a. to reflect the risk free rate of return of the currency in which the majority of the expenses are likely to be incurred. The consequential increase in decommissioning provision and property, plant and equipment of ₹ 8,105 million, which the Group believed was not material, had been recognised in the previous year.

(b) Other

Other provisions comprises the Group’s best estimates of the costs based on the possibility of occurrence in the future to settle certain legal, tax, other claims, employee benefits and redundancy costs outstanding against the Group. The timing of cash flows in respect of such provisions cannot be reasonably determined.

F-69

21. Other non-current liabilities

Non-current liabilities consist of:


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Financial
Project creditors, Security deposits and retentions		3,104		1,346		21
Put option liability with non-controlling interests⁽¹⁾		—		2,988		46
Others		18		60		1
Total - Financial		3,122		4,394		68
Non Financial
Others		—		1		0
Total Non Financial		—		1		0

		3,122		4,395		68

⁽¹⁾

One of the significant non-controlling shareholder of ASI has an option to offload their shareholding to the Group. The option is exercisable after 5 years from the date of acquisition at a price higher of ₹ 49 ($ 0.8) per share and the fair market value of the share. Therefore, the liability is carried at higher of the two. Subsequent changes to the fair value put option liability are treated as equity transaction and hence accounted for in equity. (Refer Note 1 – Business Combination)

22. Employee benefits

The Group participates in defined contribution and benefit schemes, the assets of which are held (where funded) in separately administered funds.

For defined contribution schemes the amount charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss is the total amount of contributions payable in the year.

For defined benefit schemes, the cost of providing benefits under the plans is determined by actuarial valuation separately each year for each plan using the projected unit credit method by independent qualified actuaries as at the year end. Remeasurement gains and losses arising in the year are recognised in full in Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income for the year.

Defined contribution schemes

The Group contributed a total of ₹ 909 million, ₹ 872 million and ₹ 603 million ($ 9 million) for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively, to the following defined contribution plans.

Central provident fund and family pension fund

In accordance with the Indian Provident Fund Act, employees are entitled to receive benefits under the Provident Fund. Both the employee and the employer make monthly contributions to the plan at a predetermined rate (12% for 2018) of an employee’s basic salary. All employees have an option to make additional voluntary contributions. These contributions are made to the fund administered and managed by the Government of India (GOI) or to independently managed and approved funds. The Group has no further obligations under the fund managed by the GOI beyond its monthly contributions which are charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss in the period they are incurred.. The benefits are paid to employees on their retirement or resignation from the Group.

Superannuation

Superannuation, another pension scheme applicable in India, is applicable only to senior executives. Vedanta Limited and each relevant Indian subsidiary holds a policy with Life Insurance Corporation of India (“LIC”), to which each of these entities contributes a fixed amount relating to superannuation and the pension annuity is met by LIC as required, taking into consideration the contributions made. The Group has no further obligations under the scheme beyond its monthly contributions which are charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss in the period they are incurred.

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Australian pension scheme

The Group also participates in defined contribution superannuation schemes in Australia. The contribution of a proportion of an employee’s salary in a superannuation fund is a legal requirement in Australia. The employer contributes, into the employee’s fund of choice, 9.50% of an employee’s gross remuneration where the employee is covered by an industrial agreement and 12.50% of the basic remuneration for all other employees. All employees have the option to make additional voluntary contributions. The Group has no further obligations under the scheme beyond its monthly contributions which are charged to the consolidated statements of profit or loss in the period they are incurred.

Skorpion Zinc Provident Fund, Namibia

The Skorpion Zinc Provident Fund is a defined contribution fund and is compulsory to all full time employees under the age of 60. The Group contribution to the fund is a fixed percentage of 9% per month of pensionable salary, whilst the employee contributes 7% with the option of making additional contributions, over and above the normal contribution, up to a maximum of 12%.

The Fund provides disability cover which is equal to the member’s fund credit and a death cover of 2 times annual salary in the event of death before retirement.

Black Mountain (Pty) Limited, South Africa Pension and Provident Funds

BMM has two retirement funds, both administered by Alexander Forbes, a registered financial service provider. Both funds form part of the Alexander Forbes umbrella fund and are defined contribution funds. The purpose of the funds is to provide retirement and death benefits to all eligible employees. Both the fund plans are defined contribution schemes for its employees and amount of contribution paid or payable during the year is charged to profit or loss. Group contributes at a fixed percentage of 10.5% for up to supervisor grade and 15% for others.

Lisheen Mine, Ireland Pension Funds

Lisheen participates in a defined contribution pension scheme for all employees. The plan requires Lisheen to contribute 5% of annual basic salary of the employee and the employee is required to also contribute 5% of their annual basic salary. Under the terms of the executive scheme a contribution of 15% each is made by Lisheen and by the individual. Employees may also make additional voluntary contributions subject to certain limits. The Lisheen’s contribution will continue until an employee terminates employment or reaches the retirement age of 65, whichever happens first.

Defined benefit plans

Contribution to provident fund trust (the “trusts”) of Iron ore division, BALCO, HZL, SRL and SMCL

The provident funds of Iron ore division, BALCO, HZL, SRL and SMCL are exempted under section 17 of The Employees Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952. Conditions for grant of exemption stipulates that the employer shall make good deficiency, if any, between the return guaranteed by the statute and actual earning of the Fund. Based on actuarial valuation in accordance with IAS 19 and Guidance note issued by Institute of Actuaries of India for interest rate guarantee of exempted provident fund liability of employees, there is no interest shortfall that is required to be met by Iron ore division, BALCO, HZL, SRL and SMCL as of March 31, 2018 and March 31, 2017. Having regard to the assets of the fund and the return in the investments, the Group does not expect any deficiency in the foreseeable future. The Group contributed a total of ₹ 642 million, ₹ 536 million, ₹ 627 million ($ 10 million) for the years ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively in relation to the independently managed and approved funds. The present value of obligation and the fair value of plan assets of the trust are summarized below.


	As at March 31, 2016 (₹ Million)		As at March 31, 2017 (₹ Million)		As at March 31, 2018 (₹ Million)		As at March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)
Fair value of plan assets of trusts		11,846		13,336		15,139		233
Present value of defined benefit obligations		(11,628)		(13,110)		(14,691)		226

Net liability arising from defined benefit obligation		Nil		Nil		Nil		Nil

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% allocation of Plan assets of the trust


	As at March 31, 2016		As at March 31, 2017		As at March 31, 2018
Assets by category
Government Securities		85.90		77.17		71.10
Debentures/Bonds		13.75		22.59		28.04
Fixed Deposits		0.35		0.24		0.24
Equity		—		—		0.62

Post-Retirement Medical Benefits:

The Group has a scheme of post-retirement medical benefits for employees at BMM and BALCO. Based on an actuarial valuation conducted as at year end, a provision is recognised in full for the benefit obligation. The obligation relating to post-retirement medical benefits as at March 31, 2017 and 2018 was ₹ 613 million and ₹ 675 million ($ 10 million) respectively (balance as at March 31, 2017 includes an amount of post- retirement medical benefit of ₹ 232 million reclassified from defined benefit obligation relating to gratuity plan). The obligation under this plan is unfunded. The Group considers these amounts as not material and accordingly has not provided further disclosures as required by IAS 19 (Revised 2011) “Employee benefits”. The remeasurement loss/ (gain) on post-retirement medical benefits of ₹ (24) million, ₹ 6 million, ₹ (40) million ($ (1) million) for the year ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively have been recognised in other comprehensive income.

Gratuity plan

In accordance with the Payment of Gratuity Act of 1972, Vedanta Limited and its Indian subsidiaries contribute to a defined benefit plan (the “Gratuity Plan”) covering certain categories of employees. The Gratuity Plan provides a lump sum payment to vested employees at retirement, disability or termination of employment being an amount based on the respective employee’s last drawn salary and the number of years of employment with the Group.

Based on actuarial valuations conducted as at year end, a provision is recognised in full for the benefit obligation over and above the funds held in the Gratuity Plan. For entities where the plan is unfunded, full provision is recognised in the consolidated statements of financial position.

The iron ore division of the Company, HZL and erstwhile Cairn India Limited have constituted a trust recognised by Indian Income Tax Authorities for gratuity to employees, contributions to the trust are funded with Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Limited and HDFC Standard Life Insurance.

Principal actuarial assumptions

Principal actuarial assumptions used to determine the present value of the defined benefit obligation are as follows:

Year ended
March 31, 2016

Year ended
March 31, 2017

Year ended
March 31, 2018

Discount rate

7.7%

Expected rate of increase in compensation level of covered employees

5% to 10%

3% to 15%

2% to 15%

In India, the mortality tables used, assume that a person aged 60 at the end of the balance sheet date has a future life expectancy of 19 years.

Assumptions regarding mortality for Indian entities are based on mortality tables of ‘Indian Assured Lives Mortality (2006-2008)’ published by the Institute of Actuaries of India.

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Amount recognised in the consolidated statements of financial position consists of:


	As at March 31, 2016 (₹ Million)		As at March 31, 2017 (₹ Million)		As at March 31, 2018 (₹ Million)		As at March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)
Fair value of plan assets		2,899		3,215		3,391		52
Present value of defined benefit obligations		(4,517)		(4,495)		(5,464)		(84)

Net liability arising from defined benefit obligation		(1,618)		(1,280)		(2,073)		(32)

Amounts recognised in consolidated statement of profit or loss in respect of defined benefit schemes are as follows:


	Year ended March 31, 2016 (₹ Million)		Year ended March 31, 2017 (₹ Million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (₹ Million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)
Current service cost		279		277		331		5
Past service cost		—		—		820		13
Net Interest cost		158		99		98		1

Total charge to consolidated statements of profit or loss		437		376		1,249		19

Amounts recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in respect of defined benefit scheme are as follows:


	Year ended March 31, 2016 (₹ Million)		Year ended March 31, 2017 (₹ Million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (₹ Million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)
Remeasurements of the net defined benefit obligation:-
Actuarial losses arising from changes in demographic assumptions		—		2		—		—
Actuarial (gains) / losses arising from changes in financial assumptions		(28)		(6)		15		0
Actuarial losses/ (gains) arising from experience adjustments		207		50		(58)		(1)
(Gain) / Loss on Plan assets (excluding amounts included in net interest cost)		(15)		2		12		0

Remeasurement of the net defined benefit liability		164		48		(31)		(1)

The movement of the present value of defined benefit obligation is as follows:


	Year ended March 31, 2016 (₹ in Million)		Year ended March 31, 2017 (₹ in Million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (₹ in Million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)

At 1 April		(4,987)		(4,517)		(4,495)		(69)
Reclassification to post retirement medical benefits		—		232		—		—
-Current service cost		(279)		(277)		(331)		(5)
-Past service cost		—		—		(820)		(13)
Benefits paid		1,298		451		481		9
Interest cost of scheme liabilities		(370)		(338)		(342)		(5)
Actuarial (losses) arising from changes in demographic assumptions		—		(2)		—		—
Actuarial gains / (losses) arising from changes in financial assumptions		28		6		(15)		(0)
Actuarial (losses)/ gains arising from experience adjustment		(207)		(50)		58		1
At March 31,		(4,517)		(4,495)		(5,464)		(82)

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The movement in the fair value of plan assets was as follows:


	Year ended March 31, 2016 (₹ in Million)		Year ended March 31, 2017 (₹ in Million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (₹ in Million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)
At 1 April		2,824		2,899		3,215		49
Contributions received		677		455		320		5
Benefits paid		(829)		(376)		(376)		(6)
Remeasurement gain / (loss) arising from return on plan assets		15		(2)		(12)		(1)
Interest income		212		239		244		4
At March 31,		2,899		3,215		3,391		51

All the above plan assets of the Group have been invested in the qualified insurance policies.

The actual return on plan assets was ₹ 227 million, ₹ 237 million and ₹ 232 million, ($ 4 million) for the years ended March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

The group expects to contribute ₹ 529 million ($ 8 million) to the funded defined benefit plans in fiscal 2019.

The Weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation is 12.7 years and 14.6 years as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Sensitivity analysis

Below is the sensitivity analysis determined for significant actuarial assumptions for the determination of defined benefit obligations and based on reasonably possible changes of the respective assumptions occurring at the end of the reporting period while holding all other assumptions constant.


	Increase / (Decrease) in defined benefit obligation				Increase / (Decrease) in defined benefit obligation
	Year ended March 31, 2017 (₹ in million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (₹ in million)		Year ended March 31, 2018 (US dollars in million)
Discount rate

Increase by 0.50%		(155)		(166)		(3)
Decrease by 0.50%		161		170		3
Expected rate of increase in compensation level of covered employees
Increase by 0.50%		141		151		2
Decrease by 0.50%		(142)		(145)		(2)

The above sensitivity analysis may not be representative of the actual benefit obligation as it is unlikely that the change in assumptions would occur in isolation of one another as some of the assumptions may be correlated.

In presenting the above sensitivity analysis, the present value of defined benefit obligation has been calculated using the projected unit credit method at the end of reporting period, which is the same as that applied in calculating the defined obligation liability recognised in the statement of consolidated financial position.

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Risk analysis

Group is exposed to a number of risks in the defined benefit plans. Most significant risks pertaining to defined benefits plans and management estimation of the impact of these risks are as follows:

Investment risk

Most of the Indian defined benefit plans are funded with Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), ICICI Prudential Life (ICICI) and HDFC Standard Life. Group does not have any liberty to manage the fund provided to LIC, ICICI and HDFC Standard Life.

The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated using a discount rate determined by reference to Government of India bonds for Group’s Indian operations. If the return on plan asset is below this rate, it will create a plan deficit.

Interest risk

A decrease in the interest rate on plan assets will increase the plan liability.

Longevity risk/ Life expectancy

The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated by reference to the best estimate of the mortality of plan participants both during and at the end of the employment. An increase in the life expectancy of the plan participants will increase the plan liability.

Salary growth risk

The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated by reference to the future salaries of plan participants. An increase in the salary of the plan participants will increase the plan liability.

23. Financial instruments

This section gives an overview of the significance of financial instruments for the Group and provides additional information on the consolidated statements of financial position. Details of significant accounting policies, including the criteria for recognition, the basis of measurement and the basis on which income and expenses are recognised, in respect of each class of financial asset, financial liability and equity instrument are disclosed in Note 2 and Note 3.

Financial assets and liabilities:

The following tables present the carrying value and fair value of each category of financial assets and liabilities as at March 31, 2017 and 2018.

F-75


As at March 31, 2017:
	(₹ in million)
Financial assets	Held for trading		Loans and receivables		Available for sale financial assets		Derivatives used for hedging		Total carrying value		Total fair value
Financial assets investments
—at fair value		—		—		695		—		695		695
Other non—current assets		—		19,300		—		—		19,300		19,300
Trade and other receivable		—		33,222		—		—		33,222		33,222
Short term investments
—Bank deposits		—		55,790		—		—		55,790		55,790
—Other investments		468,895		—		—		—		468,895		468,895
Derivative financial assets		—		—		—		129		129		129
Cash and cash equivalents		—		97,202		—		—		97,202		97,202
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		—		11,747		—		—		11,747		11,747

Total		468,895		217,261		695		129		686,980		686,980


As at March 31, 2017:
	(₹ in million)
Financial liabilities	Derivatives used for hedging		Amortised cost		Total carrying value		Total fair value
Borrowings		—		745,780		745,780		747,693
Acceptances		—		113,304		113,304		113,304
Trade and other payables		—		217,993		217,993		217,993
Derivative financial liabilities		8,773		—		8,773		8,773

Total		8,773		1,077,077		1,085,850		1,087,763


As at March 31, 2018:
	(₹ in million)												(US dollars in million)
Financial assets	Held for trading		Loans and receivables		Available for sale financial assets		Derivatives used for hedging		Total carrying value		Total fair value		Total carrying value		Total fair value
Financial assets investments
—at fair value		—		—		1,595		—		1,595		1,595		24		24
Other non—current assets		—		30,049		—		—		30,049		30,049		462		462
Trade and other receivable		—		44,549		—		—		44,549		44,549		684		684
Short term investments
—Bank deposits		—		30,633		—		—		30,633		30,633		471		471
—Other investments		285,363		—		—		—		285,363		285,363		4,383		4,383
Derivative financial assets		—		—		—		1,524		1,524		1,524		23		23
Cash and cash equivalents		—		42,192		—		—		42,192		42,192		648		648
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		—		2,483		—		—		2,483		2,483		38		38

Total		285,363		149,906		1,595		1,524		438,388		438,388		6,733		6,733

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As at March 31, 2018:
	(₹ in million)										(US dollars in million)
Financial liabilities	Derivatives used for hedging		Amortised cost		Others*		Total carrying value		Total fair value		Total carrying value		Total fair value
Borrowings		—		581,588		—		581,588		582,366		8,932		8,944
Acceptances		—		94,173		—		94,173		94,173		1,446		1,446
Trade and other payables		—		178,465		2,988		181,453		181,453		2,787		2,787
Derivative financial liabilities		2,610		—		—		2,610		2,610		40		40

Total		2,610		854,226		2,988		859,824		860,602		13,205		13,217

*	Includes put option liability accounted for at fair value (Refer note 19)

Fair value hierarchy

The Group uses the following hierarchy for determining and disclosing the fair value of financial instruments by valuation technique:

Level 1: quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

Level 2: inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (i.e. as prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices)

Level 3: inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs)

The below table summarizes the categories of financial assets and liabilities as at March 31, 2017 and 2018 measured at fair value:


As at March 31, 2017	(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	(₹ in million)
Financial assets
At fair value through profit or loss
— Held for trading		194,086		274,809		—
—Derivative financial assets used for hedging		—		129		—
Available-for-sale investments
—Financial asset investments held at fair value		600		—		95

		194,686		274,938		95

Financial liabilities
At fair value through profit or loss
—Derivative financial liabilities used for hedging		—		8,773		—

		—		8,773		—


As at March 31, 2018	(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
	(₹ in million)						(US dollars in million)
Financial assets
At fair value through profit or loss
—Held for trading		75,667		209,696		—		1,162		3,221		—
—Derivative financial assets used for hedging				1,524		—		—		23		—
Available-for-sale investments
—Financial asset investments held at fair value		1,488		—		107		22		—		2

		77,155		211,220		107		1,184		3,244		2

Financial liabilities
At fair value through profit or loss
—Derivative financial liabilities used for hedging		—		2,610		—		—		40		—
—Trade and other payables*		—		—		2,988		—		—		46

		—		2,610		2,988		—		40		46

*	Put option liability with non controlling interest (Refer Note 21)

F-77

The below table summarizes the fair value of financial liabilities other than those where carrying value is determined to be the fair value and which are carried at amortised cost as at March 31, 2017 and 2018:


As at March 31, 2017	(Level 2)
	(₹ in million)
Financial Liabilities
- Long term borrowings		334,567

		334,567


As at March 31, 2018	(Level 2)		(Level 2)
	(₹ in million)		US dollars in million
Financial Liabilities
- Long term borrowings		268,666		4,126

		268,666		4,126

The fair value of the financial assets and liabilities are at the amount that would be received to sell an asset and paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values:

•

Investments traded in active markets are determined by reference to quotes from the financial institutions; for example: Net asset value (NAV) for investments in mutual funds declared by mutual fund house. For other listed securities traded in markets which are not active, the quoted price is used wherever the pricing mechanism is same as for other marketable securities traded in active markets. Other current investments are valued on the basis of market trades, poll and primary issuances for securities issued by the same or similar issuer and for similar maturities or based on the applicable spread movement for the security derived based on the aforementioned factor(s).

•

Trade and other receivables (excluding non financial assets), cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash and cash equivalents), bank deposits, trade and other payables (excluding non financial liabilities) and short-term borrowings: Approximate their carrying amounts largely due to the short-term maturities of these instruments.

•

Other non-current financial assets and financial liabilities: Fair value is calculated using a discounted cash flow model with market assumptions, unless the carrying value is considered to approximate to fair value.

•

Long-term fixed-rate and variable-rate borrowings: Fair value has been determined by the Group based on parameters such as interest rates, specific country risk factors, and the risk characteristics of the financed project.

•

Quoted available-for-sale financial assets investments: Fair value is derived from quoted market prices in active markets.

•

Derivative financial assets/liabilities: The Group enters into derivative financial instruments with various counterparties. Interest rate swaps, foreign exchange forward contracts and commodity forward contracts are valued using valuation techniques, which employs the use of market observable inputs. The most frequently applied valuation techniques include forward pricing and swap models, using present value calculations. The models incorporate various inputs including foreign exchange spot and forward rates, yield curves of the respective currencies, currency basis spreads between the repective currencies, interest rate curves and forward rate curves of the underlying commodity. Commodity contracts are valued using the forward LME rates of commodities actively traded on the listed metal exchange i.e. London Metal Exchange, United Kingdom (U.K.).

For all other financial instruments, the carrying amount is either the fair value, or approximates the fair value.

The changes in counterparty credit risk had no material effect on the hedge effectiveness assessment for derivatives designated in hedge relationship and the value of other financial instruments recognised at fair value.

The estimated fair value amounts as at March 31, 2018 have been measured as at that date. As such, the fair values of these financial instruments subsequent to reporting date may be different than the amounts reported at each year-end.

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There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 during the year.

Risk management framework

The Group’s businesses are subject to several risks and uncertainties including financial risks.

The Group’s documented risk management polices act as an effective tool in mitigating the various financial risks to which the businesses are exposed to in the course of their daily operations. The risk management policies cover areas such as liquidity risk, commodity price risk, foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, counterparty credit risk and capital management. Risks are identified at both the corporate and individual subsidiary level with active involvement of senior management. Each operating subsidiary in the Group has in place risk management processes which are in line with the Group’s policy. Each significant risk has a designated ‘owner’ within the Group at an appropriate senior level. The potential financial impact of the risk and its likelihood of a negative outcome are regularly updated.

The risk management process is coordinated by the Management Assurance function and is regularly reviewed by the Group’s Audit Committee. The Audit Committee is aided by the other committees of the Board including the Risk Management Committee, which meets regularly to review risks as well as the progress against the planned actions. Key business decisions are discussed at the periodic meetings of the Executive Committee. The overall internal control environment and risk management programme including financial risk management is reviewed by the Audit Committee on behalf of the Board.

The risk management framework aims to:

•

improve financial risk awareness and risk transparency

•

identify, control and monitor key risks

•

identify risk accumulations

•

provide management with reliable information on the Group’s risk situation

•

improve financial returns

Treasury management

Treasury management focuses on liability management, capital protection, liquidity maintenance and yield maximization. The treasury policies are approved by the Committee of the Board. Daily treasury operations of the subsidiary companies are managed by their respective finance teams within the framework of the overall Group treasury policies. Long-term fund raising including strategic treasury initiatives are managed jointly by the business treasury team and the central team at corporate treasury while short-term funding for routine working capital requirements is delegated to subsidiary companies. A monthly reporting system exists to inform senior management of investments and debt position, exposure to currency, commodity and interest rate risk and their mitigants including the derivative position. The Group has a strong system of internal control which enables effective monitoring of adherence to Group’s policies. The internal control measures are effectively supplemented by regular internal audits.

The investment portfolio at the Group is independently reviewed by CRISIL Limited and Group portfolio has been rated as Tier I or “Very Good” meaning highest safety. The investments are made keeping in mind safety, liquidity and yield maximization.

The Group uses derivative instruments to manage the exposure in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. The Group does not acquire or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. The Group does not enter into complex derivative transactions to manage the treasury and commodity risks. Both treasury and commodities derivative transactions are normally in the form of forward contracts, interest rate and currency swaps and these are in line with the Group’s policies.

Commodity price risk

The Group is exposed to the movement of base metal commodity prices on the London Metal Exchange. Any decline in the prices of the base metals that the Group produces and sells will have an immediate and direct impact on the profitability of the businesses. As a general policy, the Group aims to sell the products at prevailing market prices. The commodity price risk in import of input commodity such as Copper Concentrate & Alumina, for our copper and aluminium business respectively, is hedged on back-to back basis ensuring no price risk for the business. Hedging is used primarily as a risk management tool and, in some cases, to secure future cash flows in cases of high volatility by entering into forward contracts or similar instruments. The hedging activities are subject to strict limits set out by the Board and to a strictly defined internal control and monitoring mechanism. Decisions relating to hedging of commodities are taken at the Executive Committee level, basis clearly laid down guidelines.

F-79

Whilst the Group aims to achieve average LME prices for a month or a year, average realised prices may not necessarily reflect the LME price movements because of a variety of reasons such as uneven sales during the year and timing of shipments.

The Group is also exposed to the movement of international crude oil price and the discount in the price of Rajasthan crude oil to Brent price.

Financial instruments with commodity price risk are entered into in relation to following activities:

•

economic hedging of prices realised on commodity contracts

•

cash flow hedging of revenues, forecasted highly probable transactions

Aluminum

The requirement of the primary raw material, alumina, is partly met from own sources and the rest is purchased primarily on negotiated price terms. Sales prices are linked to the LME prices. At present, the Group on selective basis hedges the aluminium content in outsourced alumina to protect its margins.

The Group also enters into hedging arrangements for its aluminium sales to realise average month of sale LME prices.

Copper

The Group’s custom smelting copper operations at Tuticorin is benefitted by a natural hedge except to the extent of a possible mismatch in quotational periods between the purchase of concentrate and the sale of finished copper. The Group’s policy on custom smelting is to generate margins from Treatment charges/Refining charges or “TcRc”, improving operational efficiencies, minimising conversion cost, generating a premium over LME on sale of finished copper, sale of by-products and from achieving import parity on domestic sales. Hence, mismatches in quotational periods are managed to ensure that the gains or losses are minimised. The Group hedges this variability of LME prices through forward contracts and tries to make the LME price a pass-through cost between purchases of copper concentrate and sales of finished products, both of which are linked to the LME price.

Tc/Rcs are a major source of income for the Indian copper smelting operations. Fluctuations in Tc/Rcs are influenced by factors including demand and supply conditions prevailing in the market for mine output. The Group’s copper business has a strategy of securing a majority of its concentrate feed requirement under long-term contracts with mines.

Zinc, Lead and Silver

The sales prices are linked to the LME prices. The Group also enters into hedging arrangements for its Zinc, Lead and Silver sales to realise average month of sale LME prices.

Zinc International

Raw material for zinc and lead is mined in Namibia and South Africa Ireland with sales prices linked to the LME prices.

Iron ore

The Group sells its Iron Ore production from Goa on the prevailing market prices and from Karnataka through e-auction route as mandated by State Government of Karnataka in India.

Oil and gas

The prices of various crude oils are based upon the price of the key physical benchmark crude oil such as Dated Brent, West Texas Intermediate, and Dubai/Oman etc. The crude oil prices move based upon market factors like supply and demand. The regional producers price their crude basis these benchmark crude with a premium or discount over the benchmark based upon quality differential and competitiveness of various grades.

Natural gas markets are evolving differently in important geographical markets. There is no single global market for natural gas. This could be owing to difficulties in large-scale transportation over long distances as compared to crude oil. Globally, there are three main regional hubs for pricing of natural gas, which are USA (Henry Hub Prices), UK (NBP Price) and Japan (imported gas price, mostly linked to crude oil).

F-80

Provisionally priced financial instruments

The value of net financial liabilities linked to commodities (excluding derivatives) accounted for on provisional prices was ₹ 25,654 million and ₹ 29,881 million ($459 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. These instruments are subject to price movements at the time of final settlement and the final price of these instruments will be determined in the financial year beginning April 1, 2018.

Set out below is the impact of 10% increase in LME prices on pre-tax profit/(loss) for the year and pre-tax equity as a result of changes in the value of the Group’s commodity financial instruments:


For the year ended March 31, 2017	(₹ in million)
	Total exposure		Effect on pre-tax profit/(loss) of a 10% increase in the LME			Effect on pre-tax equity of a 10% increase in the LME
Copper		29,543		(2,954	)		—

For the year ended March 31, 2018	(₹ in million)
	Total exposure		Effect on pre-tax profit/(loss) of a 10% increase in the LME			Effect on pre-tax equity of a 10% increase in the LME
Copper		35,578		(3,558	)		—
US dollars in million		546		55			—

The above sensitivities are based on volumes, costs, exchange rates and other variables and provide the estimated impact of a change in LME prices on profit and equity assuming that all other variables remain constant. A 10% decrease in LME prices would have an equal and opposite effect on the Group’s financial statements.

Incuded above is also the impact of a 10% increase in closing copper LME for provisionally priced copper concentrate purchased at Copper division custom smelting operations of ₹ 2,954 million and ₹ 3,684 million ($ 57 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively, which is pass through in nature and as such will not have any impact on the profitability.

Financial risk

The Group’s Board approved financial risk policies include monitoring, measuring and mitigating the liquidity, currency, interest rate and counterparty risk. The Group does not engage in speculative treasury activity but seeks to manage risk and optimize interest and commodity pricing through proven financial instruments.

(a) Liquidity

The Group requires funds both for short-term operational needs as well as for long-term investment programmes mainly in growth projects. The Group generates sufficient cash flows from the current operations which together with the available cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments provide liquidity both in the short-term as well as in the long-term.

The Group has been rated by CRISIL Limited (CRISIL) and India Ratings and Research Private Limited (India Rating) for its capital market issuance in the form of CPs and NCDs and for its banking facilities in line with Basel II norms.

CRISIL changed the outlook for the Group’s long-term bank facilities and its Non-Convertible Debentures (NCD) programme to CRISIL AA / Positive from CRISIL AA /Stable during the year on account of structural improvement in business profile and deleveraging. India Ratings has revised the outlook on Vedanta Limited’s ratings to IND AA / Positive from IND AA/ Negative on account of improved financial metrics, completion of the merger with Cairn and proactive refinancing. Vedanta Limited has the highest short term rating on its working capital and Commercial Paper Programme at A1+ from CRISIL and India Ratings.

F-81

Anticipated future cash flows, together with undrawn fund based committed facilities of ₹ 33,369 million, and cash, bank and current investments of ₹ 360,671 million as at March 31, 2018, are expected to be sufficient to meet the liquidity requirement of the Group in the near future.

F-82

The Group remains committed to maintaining a healthy liquidity, a low gearing ratio, deleveraging and strengthening its statement of financial position. The maturity profile of the Group’s financial liabilities based on the remaining period from the date of balance sheet to the contractual maturity date is given in the table below. The figures reflect the contractual undiscounted cash obligation of the Group.


As at March 31, 2017 Payment due by year	<1 year		1-3 years		3-5 years		>5 years		Total
	(₹ in million)
Acceptances*		113,502		—		—		—		113,502
Trade and other payables**		206,483		1,153		—		1,969		209,605
Borrowings***		462,362		179,381		160,210		68,261		870,214
Derivative financial liabilities		8,216		557		—		—		8,773

		790,563		181,091		160,210		70,230		1,202,094


As at March 31, 2018 Payment due by year	<1 year		1-3 years		3-5 years		>5 years		Total
	(₹ in million)
Acceptances*		94,823		—		—		—		94,823
Trade and other payables**		168,200		1,372		2,988		—		172,560
Borrowings***		346,243		180,896		74,166		74,395		675,700
Derivative financial liabilities		1,432		1,178		—		—		2,610

	610,698		183,446		77,154		74,395		945,693

US dollars in million		9,379		2,817		1,185		1,143		14,524

*	Includes committed interest payments

**	Includes financial liabilities grouped under “other non current liabilities”. Excludes interest accrued but not due on borrowings.

***	Includes long term borrowings, short term borrowings, interest accrued but not due on borrowings and committed interest payments.

The Group had access to following funding facilities:

As at March 31, 2017

Funding facility

Total facility

Drawn

Un drawn

(₹ in
million)

Fund/ Non-fund based

490,585

385,255

105,330

As at March 31, 2018

Funding facility

Total facility

Drawn

Un drawn

(₹ in
million)

Fund/ Non-fund based

571,900

464,857

107,043

US dollars in million

8,784

7,140

1,644

Collateral

The Group has pledged a part of its trade receivables, short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents in order to fulfill the collateral requirements for the financial facilities in place. The counterparties have an obligation to return the securities to the Group.

The details related to the fair value of collateral have been stated in Note 13, 14 and 15.

(b) Foreign exchange risk

Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates may have an impact on the consolidated statements of profit or loss, the consolidated statements of change in equity, where any transaction references more than one currency or where assets/liabilities are denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the respective consolidated entities.

F-83

Considering the countries and economic environment in which the Group operates, its operations are subject to risks arising from the fluctuations primarily in the US dollar, Australian dollar, Namibian dollar, AED, ZAR, GBP, JPY, INR and Euro against the functional currencies of Vedanta Limited and its subsidiaries.

Exposures on foreign currency loans are managed through the Group wide hedging policy, which is reviewed periodically to ensure that the results from fluctuating currency exchange rates are appropriately managed. The Group strives to achieve asset liability offset of foreign currency exposures and only the net position is hedged.

The Group’s presentation currency is Indian Rupee. The majority of the assets are located in India and the Indian Rupee is the functional currency for the Indian operating subsidiaries except for Oil and Gas business. Natural hedges available in the business are identified at each entity level and hedges are placed only for the net exposure. Short-term net exposures are hedged progressively based on their maturity. A more conservative approach has been adopted for project expenditures to avoid budget overruns, where cost of the project is calculated taking into account the hedge cost. However, all new long-term borrowing exposures are being hedged. The hedge mechanisms are reviewed periodically to ensure that the risk from fluctuating currency exchange rates is appropriately managed.

The carrying amount of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities in different currencies are as follows:


	As at March 31, 2017				As at March 31, 2018				As at March 31, 2018
	Financial assets		Financial liabilities		Financial assets		Financial liabilities		Financial assets		Financial liabilities
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)		(US dollars in million)
INR		584,927		801,182		356,944		616,168		5,483		9,463
USD		96,497		278,737		71,891		222,888		1,104		3,423
Euro		1,810		2,679		407		4,438		6		68
Others		3,746		3,252		9,146		16,330		140		251

Total		686,980		1,085,850		438,388		859,824		6,733		13,205

The Group’s exposure to foreign currency arises where a group entity holds monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a currency different to the functional currency of the respective business, with US dollar being the major non-functional currency.

The foreign exchange rate sensitivity is calculated by the aggregation of the net foreign exchange rate exposure with a simultaneous parallel foreign exchange rates shift in the currencies by 10% against the functional currency of the respective businesses.

Set out below is the impact of a 10% strengthening in the functional currencies of respective businesses on pre-tax profit/(loss) andpre-tax equity arising as a result of the revaluation of the Group’s foreign currency financial assets/ liabilities :


March 31, 2017	Effect on pre-tax profit/(loss) of a 10% strengthening in currency		Effect on pre- tax equity of a 10% strengthening in currency
USD		25,752		(182	)
INR		1,042		—

F-84


March 31, 2018	Effect on pre-tax profit/(loss) of a 10% strengthening in currency		Effect on pre- tax equity of a 10% strengthening in currency		Effect on pre-tax profit/(loss) of a 10% strengthening in currency		Effect on pre-tax equity of a 10% strengthening in currency
	(₹ in million)				(US Dollars in million)
USD		15,205		0		234		0
INR		609		—		9		—

A 10% weakening of the functional currencies of respective businesses would have an equal and opposite effect on the Group’s financial statements.

(c) Interest rate risk

The Group is exposed to interest rate risk on short-term and long-term floating rate instruments and on the refinancing of fixed rate debt. The Group’s policy is to maintain a balance of fixed and floating interest rate borrowings and the proportion of fixed and floating rate debt is determined by current market interest rates.

The borrowings of the Group are principally denominated in Indian Rupees and US dollars with mix of fixed and floating rates of interest. The USD floating rate debt is linked to US dollar LIBOR and INR floating rate debt to Bank’s base rate. The Group has a policy of selectively using interest rate swaps, option contracts and other derivative instruments to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. These exposures are reviewed by appropriate levels of management on a monthly basis.

The Group invests cash and liquid investments in short-term deposits and debt mutual funds, some of which generate a tax-free return, to achieve the Group’s goal of maintaining liquidity, carrying manageable risk and achieving satisfactory returns.

Floating rate financial assets are largely mutual fund investments which have debt securities as underlying assets. The returns from these financial assets are linked to market interest rate movements; however the counterparty invests in the agreed securities with known maturity tenure and return and hence has manageable risk.

The exposure of the Group’s financial assets as at March 31, 2017 to interest rate risk is as follows:

Floating rate
financial assets

Fixed rate
financial assets

Non-interest bearing
financial assets

Total financial
assets

(₹ in
million)

Financial assets

355,073

195,353

136,554

686,980

355,073

195,353

136,554

686,980

The exposure of the Group’s financial liabilities as at March 31, 2017 to interest rate risk is as follows:

Floating rate
financial liabilities

Fixed rate
financial liabilities

Non-interest bearing
financial liabilities

Total financial
liabilities

(₹ in
million)

Financial liabilities

399,564

459,007

227,279

1,085,850

399,564

459,007

227,279

1,085,850

The weighted average interest rate on the fixed rate financial liabilities is 7.0% p.a. and the weighted average period for which the rate is fixed is 1.4 years.

F-85

The exposure of the Group’s financial assets as at March 31, 2018 to interest rate risk is as follows:

Floating rate
financial assets

Fixed rate
financial assets

Non-interest bearing
financial assets

Total financial
assets

(₹ in
million)

Financial assets

196,530

146,820

95,038

438,388

196,530

146,820

95,038

438,388

(US dollars in million)

3,018

2,255

1,460

6,733

The exposure of the Group’s financial liabilities as at March 31, 2018 to interest rate risk is as follows:

Floating rate
financial liabilities

Fixed rate
financial liabilities

Non-interest bearing
financial liabilities

Total financial
liabilities

(₹ in
million)

Financial liabilities

232,423

443,029

184,372

859,824

232,423

443,029

184,372

859,824

(US dollars in million)

3,570

6,804

2,831

13,205

The weighted average interest rate on the fixed rate financial liabilities is 6.7% p.a. and the weighted average period for which the rate is fixed is 2.4 years.

Considering the net debt position as at March 31, 2018 and the investment in bank deposits, corporate bonds and debt mutual funds, any increase in interest rates would result in a net loss and any decrease in interest rates would result in a net gain. The sensitivity analysis has been determined based on the exposure to interest rates for financial instruments at the balance sheet date.

The table below illustrates the impact of a 0.5% to 2.0% movement in interest rates on interest on financial assets/ liabilities (net) on profit/(loss) and equity assuming that the changes occur at the reporting date and has been calculated based on risk exposure outstanding as of date. The year end balances are not necessarily representative of the average debt outstanding during the year. This analysis also assumes that all other variables, in particular foreign currency rates, remain constant.


Increase in interest rates Year ended March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
0.50%		(222)		(179)		(3)
1.00%		(445)		(359)		(6)
2.00%		(890)		(718)		(9)

An equivalent reduction in interest rates would have an equal and opposite effect on the Group’s financial statements.

(d) Counterparty and concentration of credit risk

Credit risk refers to the risk that counterparty will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the Group. The Group has adopted a policy of only dealing with creditworthy counterparties and obtaining sufficient collateral, where appropriate, as a means of mitigating the risk of financial loss from defaults.

The Group is exposed to credit risk for receivables, short-term investments, and derivative financial instruments.

Credit risk on receivables is limited as almost all credit sales are against letters of credit and guarantees of banks of national standing. Moreover, given the diverse nature of the Group’s businesses trade receivables are spread over a number of customers with no significant concentration of credit risk. No single customer accounted for 10.0% or more of revenue on a consolidated basis in any of the years presented. The history of trade receivables shows a negligible provision for bad and doubtful debts. Therefore, the Group does not expect any material risk on account of non-performance by any of the Group’s counterparties.

F-86

The Group has clearly defined policies to mitigate counterparty risks. For short-term investments, counterparty limits are in place to limit the amount of credit exposure to any one counterparty. This, therefore, results in diversification of credit risk for our mutual fund and bond investments. For derivative and financial instruments, the Group attempts to limit the credit risk by only dealing with reputable banks and financial institutions.

The carrying value of the financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure. The Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 is ₹ 686,980 million and ₹ 438,388 million ($6,733 million) respectively.

The maximum credit exposure on financial guarantees given by the Group for various financial facilities is described in Note 29 on “Commitments, contingencies, and guarantees”.

None of the Group’s cash equivalents, including time deposits with banks, are past due or impaired. Regarding trade and other receivables, and other non-current assets, there were no indications as at March 31, 2018, that defaults in payment obligations will occur except as described in Note 13 on allowance for impairment of trade and other receivables.

Of the year end trade and other receivables, the following are expected to be realised in the normal course of business and hence not considered impaired:


As at March 31	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Neither impaired nor past due		11,450		34,278		526
Past due but not impaired
Due Less than 1 month		9,429		7,725		119
Due Between 1 - 3 months		3,014		3,897		60
Due Between 3 - 12 months		15,307		7,278		112
Due Greater than 12 months		9,372		15,477		238

	48,572		68,655		1,055

Receivables are deemed to be past due or impaired with reference to the Group’s normal terms and conditions of business. These terms and conditions are determined on a case to case basis with reference to the customer’s credit quality and prevailing market conditions. Receivables that are classified as ‘past due’ in the above table are those that have not been settled within the terms and conditions that have been agreed with that customer.

The credit quality of the Group’s customers is monitored on an ongoing basis and assessed for impairment where indicators of such impairment exist. The solvency of the debtor and their ability to repay the receivable is considered in assessing receivables for impairment (also refer footnotes to note 11). Where receivables have been impaired, the Group actively seeks to recover the amounts in question and enforce compliance with credit terms.

Derivative financial instruments

The Group uses derivative instruments as part of its management of exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. The Group does not acquire or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. The Group does not enter into complex derivative transactions to manage the treasury and commodity risks. Both treasury and commodities derivative transactions are normally in the form of forward contracts and these are subject to the Group guidelines and policies.

The fair values of all derivatives are separately recorded in the consolidated statements of financial position within current and non-current assets and liabilities. Derivatives that are designated as hedges are classified as current or non-current depending on the maturity of the derivative.

The use of derivatives can give rise to credit and market risk. The Group tries to control credit risk as far as possible by only entering into contracts with reputable banks and financial institutions. The use of derivative instruments is subject to limits, authorities and regular monitoring by appropriate levels of management. The limits, authorities and monitoring systems are periodically reviewed by management and the Board. The market risk on derivatives is mitigated by changes in the valuation of the underlying assets, liabilities or transactions, as derivatives are used only for risk management purposes.

F-87

Embedded derivatives

Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other contracts are treated as separate derivative contracts and marked-to-market when their risks and characteristics are not clearly and closely related to those of their host contracts and the host contracts are not fair valued.

Cash flow hedges

The Group enters into forward exchange and commodity price contracts for hedging highly probable forecast transaction and account for them as cash flow hedges and states them at fair value. Subsequent changes in fair value are recognized in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income until the hedged transaction occurs, at which time, the respective gain or losses are reclassified to the consolidated statements of profit or loss. These hedges have been effective for the year ended March 31, 2018.

The Group uses foreign exchange contracts from time to time to optimize currency risk exposure on its foreign currency transactions. The Group hedged part of its foreign currency exposure on capital commitments during the year ended 2018. Fair value changes on such forward contracts are recognized in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

The majority of cash flow hedges taken out by the Group during the year comprise non-derivative hedging instruments for hedging the foreign exchange rate of highly probable forecast transactions and commodity price contracts for hedging the commodity price risk of highly probable forecast transactions.

The cash flows related to above are expected to occur during the year ended March 31, 2019 and consequently may impact the consolidated statements of profit or loss for that year depending upon the change in the commodity prices and foreign exchange rates movements. For cash flow hedges regarded as basis adjustments to initial carrying value of the property, plant and equipment, the depreciation on the basis adjustments made is expected to affect the consolidated statements of profit or loss over the expected useful life of the property, plant and equipment.

Fair value hedge

The fair value hedges relate to forward covers taken to hedge currency exposure and commodity price risks.

The Group’s sales are on a quotational period basis, generally one month to three months after the date of delivery at a customer’s facility. The Group enters into forward contracts for the respective quotational period to hedge its commodity price risk based on average LME prices. Gains and losses on these hedge transactions are substantially offset by the amount of gains or losses on the underlying sales. Net gains and losses are recognized in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

The Group uses foreign exchange contracts from time to time to optimize currency risk exposure on its foreign currency transactions. Fair value changes on such forward contracts are recognized in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Non-qualifying/economic hedge

The Group enters into derivative contracts which are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes, but provide an economic hedge of a particular transaction risk or a risk component of a transaction. Hedging instruments include copper, aluminium future contracts on the LME and certain other derivative instruments. Fair value changes on such derivative instruments are recognized in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

F-88

The fair value of the Group’s derivative positions recorded under derivative financial assets and derivative financial liabilities are as follows:


	As at March 31, 2017				As at March 31, 2018
	Assets		Liabilities		Assets		Liabilities		Assets		Liabilities
	(₹ in million)								(US dollars in million)
Current
Cash flow hedges*
— Commodity contracts		1		854		1,184		947		18		15
— Forward foreign currency contracts		—		137		6		0		0		0
Fair value hedges**
— Commodity contracts		—		21		13		6		0		0
— Forward foreign currency contracts		1		5,325		144		93		2		1
Non-qualifying hedges
— Commodity contracts		89		238		41		147		1		2
— Forward foreign currency contracts		—		1,630		134		224		2		4
— Cross currency swap		—		11		2		15		0		0
Non Current
Fair value hedges**
— Forward foreign currency contracts		38		557		—		1,061		—		16
Non-qualifying hedges
— Commodity contracts		—		—		—		7		—		0
— Forward foreign currency contracts		—		—		—		110		—		2

Total		129		8,773		1,524		2,610		23		40

*	Refer consolidated statements of comprehensive income and consolidated statements of change in equity for the change in the fair value of cash flow hedges.

**	The change in fair value hedges has been recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss.

24. Capital management

The Group’s objectives when managing capital is to safeguard continuity, maintain a strong credit rating and healthy capital ratios in order to support its business and provide adequate return to shareholders through continuing growth. The Group’s overall strategy remains unchanged from previous year.

The Group sets the amount of capital required on the basis of annual business and long-term operating plans which include capital and other strategic investments.

The funding requirements are met through a mixture of equity, internal fund generation, convertible debt securities, and other long term borrowings. The Group’s policy is to use short-term and long-term borrowings to meet anticipated funding requirements.

The Group monitors capital on the basis of the net gearing ratio which is Net debt / Total Capital (equity + net debt). The Group is not subject to any externally imposed capital requirements.

Net debt are long term and short term debts as reduced by cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash and cash equivalents) and short-term investments. Equity comprises all components including other components of equity (which comprises the cash flow hedges, translation of foreign operations and available-for-sale financial investments).

The following table summarizes the capital of the Group:

As at March 31,

2017

2018

(₹ in million)

(US dollars in
million)

Equity

713,788

752,930

11,564

Cash and cash equivalents (Note 15 and 16)

108,949

44,675

686

Short term investments (Note 14)

524,685

315,996

4,854

Total cash (a)

633,634

360,671

5,540

Short-term borrowings (Note 17)

413,126

313,700

4,818

Long-term borrowings (Note 17)

332,654

267,888

4,114

Total debt (b)

745,780

581,588

8,932

Net debt (c=(b-a))

112,146

220,917

3,392

Total capital (equity+net debt)

825,934

973,847

14,956

Gearing ratio

0.16

0.29

F-89

25. Shareholders’ equity

Authorised Share Capital:

As at March 31, 2018 the authorised equity share capital of Vedanta Limited comprised 44,020,100,000 equity shares with a par value of ₹ 1 each.

During the previous year, the authorized equity share capital of the Company had changed pursuant to the scheme of Merger (Refer note 1).

The Company has one class of equity shares having a par value of ₹ 1 per share. Each shareholder is eligible for one vote per share held and dividend as and when declared by the Company.

Issued, subscribed and fully paid up share capital:

Vedanta Limited’s issued equity share capital was ₹ 3,718 million and ₹ 3,718 million ($ 57 million) consisting of 3,717,493,092 and 3,717,493,092 equity shares as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively. This includes 54,254,975 and 62,106,174 American Depository Shares (“ADS”) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively.

Equity share capital of ₹ 3,718 million as at March 31, 2017 also included 752.5 million shares to be issued pursuant to the scheme of Merger (Refer note 1).

Securities premium

Securities premium is created to record amounts received in excess of the par value of shares in separate account as required by the Indian Companies Act. The securities premium account may be applied by the company towards the issue of unissued shares of the company to the members of the company as fully paid bonus shares, writing off the preliminary expenses of the company, writing off the expenses of, or the commission paid or discount allowed on any issue of shares or debentures of the company, providing for the premium payable on the redemption of any redeemable preference shares or of any debentures of the company; or for the purchase of its own shares or other securities.

Retained earnings includes amongst others, general reserve, debenture redemption reserve, capital reserve and preference share redemption reserve.

General reserve

Under the erstwhile Indian Companies Act 1956, a general reserve was created through an annual transfer of net income at a specified percentage in accordance with applicable regulations. The purpose of these transfers was to ensure that if a dividend distribution in a given year is more than 10.0% of the paid-up capital of the Company for that year, then the total dividend distribution is less than the total distributable results for that year. Consequent to introduction of Companies Act 2013, the requirement to mandatory transfer a specified percentage of the net profit to general reserve has been withdrawn. The balances in general reserves, as determined in accordance with applicable regulations, was ₹ 191,052 million and ₹191,052 million ($ 2,934 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. (Also refer dividend section below).

Debenture redemption reserve

The Indian Companies Act requires companies that issue debentures to create a debenture redemption reserve from annual profits until such debentures are redeemed. Companies are required to maintain 25% as a reserve of outstanding redeemable debentures. The amounts credited to the debenture redemption reserve may not be utilized except to redeem debentures. Retained earnings include ₹ 17,696 million and ₹ 14,770 million ($ 227 million) of debenture redemption reserve as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Preference share redemption reserve

The Indian Companies Act provides that companies that issue preference shares may redeem those shares from profits of the Company which otherwise would be available for dividends, or from proceeds of a new issue of shares made for the purpose of redemption of the preference shares. If there is a premium payable on redemption, the premium must be provided, either by reducing the additional paid in capital (securities premium account) or out of profits, before the shares are redeemed.

F-90

If profits are used to redeem preference shares, the value of the nominal amount of shares redeemed should be transferred from profits (retained earnings) to the preference share redemption reserve account. This amount should then be utilised for the purpose of redemption of redeemable preference shares. This reserve can be used to issue fully paid-up bonus shares to the shareholders of Vedanta Limited. Retained earnings include ₹ 769 million and ₹ 769 million ($ 12 million) of preference share redemption reserve as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Capital reserve

The balance in capital reserve as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 is ₹ 190,186 million and ₹ 187,763 million ($ 2,884 million) respectively. The said balance has mainly arisen pursuant to extinguishment of non-controlling interests of erstwhile Cairn India Limited in the previous year pursuant to merger as described in note 1.

Dividends

Each equity share holder is entitled to dividends as and when Vedanta Limited declares and pays dividends after obtaining shareholder approval / board approval in case of an interim dividend. Dividends are paid in Indian Rupees. Remittance of dividends outside India is governed by Indian law on foreign exchange and is subject to applicable taxes.

On April 29, 2015 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited recommended a final dividend of ₹ 2.35 per equity share for the year ended March 31, 2015, which was approved by the shareholders’ at the annual general meeting, held on July 11, 2015. The dividend amounting to ₹ 6,967 million has been subsequently paid before the due date.

On October 27, 2015 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited declared an interim dividend of ₹ 3.5 per equity share for the year ended March 31, 2016. The dividend amounting to ₹ 10,378 million has been subsequently paid before the due date.

On March 30, 2017 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited declared an interim dividend of ₹ 17.70 per equity share for the year ended March 31, 2017. The dividend amounting to ₹ 65,800 million has been subsequently paid.

On March 13, 2018 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited declared an interim dividend of ₹ 21.20 ($0.33) per equity share for the year ended March 31, 2018. The dividend amounting to ₹ 78,810 million ($1,210 million) has been subsequently paid before the due date.

On March 13, 2018 the board of directors of Vedanta Limited also declared dividend @ 7.5% p.a. on the redeemable preference shares as per their terms of issuance of ₹ 2,090 million ($ 32 million). These preference shares were issued on April 28, 2017 and dividend is payable uptil the end of financial year i.e. March 31, 2018. The same has been accounted for as interest cost and has been recorded in the consolidated statement of profit and loss.

If profits for a year are insufficient to declare dividends, dividends for that year may be declared and paid out from accumulated profits on the following conditions:

•

The rate of dividend declared shall not exceed the average of the rates at which dividend was declared by the company in the three years immediately preceding that year;

•

The total amount to be drawn from such accumulated profits shall not exceed one-tenth of the sum of the company’s paid-up share capital and free reserves as appearing in the latest audited financial statement;

•

The amount so drawn shall first be utilised to set off the losses incurred in the financial year in which dividend is declared before any dividend in respect of equity shares is declared; and

•

The balance of reserves after such withdrawal shall not fall below fifteen per cent of the company’s paid up share capital as appearing in the latest audited financial statement.

26. Share-Based Compensation Plans

The Company offers equity based option plans to its employees, officers and directors through the Company’s stock option plan introduced in the previous year, Cairn India’s stock option plan now administered by the Company pursuant to merger with the Company and Vedanta Resources Plc plans [Vedanta Resources Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”), Employee Share Ownership Plan (“ESOP”), Performance Share Plan (“PSP”) and Deferred Share Bonus Plan (“DSBP”)] collectively referred as ‘VR PLC ESOP’ scheme.

F-91

The Vedanta Limited Employee Stock Option Scheme (ESOS) 2016

The Company introduced an Employee Stock Option Scheme 2016 (“ESOS”), which was approved by the Vedanta Limited shareholders to provide equity settled incentive to all employees of the Company including subsidiary companies. The ESOS scheme includes both tenure based and performance based stock options. The maximum value of options that can be awarded to members of the wider management group is calculated by reference to the grade average cost-to-comapany (“CTC”) and individual grade of the employee. The performance conditions attached to the option is measured by comparing company’s performance in terms of Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) over the performance period with the performance of two group of comparator companies (i.e. Indian and global comparator companies) defined in the scheme. The extent to which an option vests will depend on the Company’s TSR rank against a group or groups of peer companies at the end of the performance period and as moderated by the Remuneration Committee. Dependent on the level of employee, part of these options will be subject to a continued service condition only with the remainder measured in terms of TSR.

The performance condition is measured by taking Vedanta Limited’s TSR at the start and end of the performance period (without averaging), and comparing its performance with that of the comparator group or groups. The information to enable this calculation to be carried out on behalf of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee (the Committee) is provided by the Company’s advisers. The Committee considers that this performance condition, which requires that the Company’s total return has outperformed a group of industry peers, provides a reasonable alignment of the interests of participants with those of the shareholders.

Initial options under the ESOS were granted on 15 December 2016. Further during the year, new options were granted in September 2017, October 2017 and November 2017. In the scheme launched during the year, business performance (“EBIDTA”) set against business plan for the financial year is included as an additional performance condition. The exercise price of the options is ₹ 1 per share and the performance period is three years, with no re-testing being allowed.

The details of share options for the year ended March 31, 2017 is presented below:

Year of

Grant

Excerise Period

Options
outstanding
April 1, 2016

Options
granted
during the
year

Options
forfeited/
lapsed
during
the year

Options lapsed
during the year
owing to
performance
conditions

Options
exercised
during the
year

Options
outstanding
March 31,
2017

2016

15 December 2019-15 June 2020

—

8,000,000

196,600

—

7,803,400

The details of share options for the year ended March 31, 2018 is presented below:


Year of Grant	Excerise Period	Options outstanding April 1, 2017		Options granted during the year		Options forfeited / lapsed during the year		Options lapsed during the year owing to performance conditions		Options exercised during the year		Options outstanding March 31, 2018
2016	15 December 2019-15 June 2020		7,803,400		—		670,998		—		—		7,132,402
2017	1 September 2020-1 March 2021		—		10,041,040		393,310		581,568		—		9,066,162
2017	16 October 2020-16 April 2021		—		11,570		—		573		—		10,997
2017	1 November 2020-1 May 2021		—		28,740		—		1,422		—		27,318

			7,803,400		10,081,350		1,064,308		583,563		—		16,236,879

F-92

The fair value of all options has been determined at the date of grant of the option allowing for the effect of any market-based performance conditions. This fair value, adjusted by the Group’s estimate of the number of options that will eventually vest as a result of non-market conditions, is expensed over the vesting period. The weighted average remaining contractual life for the options outstanding as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 is 39 months and 32 months respectively and no options were exercisable both as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.

The fair values were calculated using the Black-Scholes Model for tenure based and EBIDTA based options and Monte Carlo simulation model for TSR based options. The inputs to the model include the share price at date of grant, exercise price, expected volatility, expected dividends, expected term and the risk free rate of interest. Expected volatility has been calculated using historical return indices over the period to date of grant that is commensurate with the performance period of the option. The volatilities of the industry peers have been modelled based on historical movements in the indices over the period to date of grant which is also commensurate with the performance period for the option. The history of return indices is used to determine the volatility and correlation of share prices for the comparator companies and is needed for the Monte Carlo model to estimate their future TSR performance relative to the Vedanta Limited’s TSR performance. All options are assumed to be exercised immediately after vesting, as the excercise period is 6 months.

The assumptions used in the calculations of the charge in respect of the ESOS options granted during the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 are set out below:


Particulars	Year ended March 31, 2017		Year ended March 31, 2018

	ESOS December 2016		ESOS September, October & November 2017
Number of Options		8,000,000		10,081,350
Exercise Price		₹ 1		₹ 1
Share Price at the date of grant		₹ 235.90		₹ 308.90
Contractual Life		3 years		3 years
Expected Volatility		48%		48%
Expected option life		3 years		3 years
Expected dividends		3.20%		3.70%
Risk free interest rate		6.50%		6.50%
Expected annual forfeitures		10%p.a.		10%p.a.
Fair value per option granted (EBIDTA & Service based/Performance based)		₹ 213.6/₹ 82.8		₹ 275.3/₹ 161.1

The Company recognized total expense of ₹ 66 million and ₹ 468 million ($ 7.2 million) related to above equity settled share-based payment transactions for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Employee stock option plans of erstwhile Cairn India Limited:

The Company has provided various share based payment schemes to its employees. During the year ended March 31, 2018 and March 31, 2017, the following schemes were in operation:

Particulars

CIPOP

CIESOP

CIPOP
Phantom

Date of Board Approval

17-Nov-06

Not applicable

Date of Shareholder’s approval

17-Nov-06

Not applicable

Number of options granted till March 31, 2018

16,167,131

30,112,439

4,831,955

Method of Settlement

Equity

Cash

Vesting Period

3 years from grant date

Exercise Period

3 months from vesting

date

7 years from vesting

date

Immediately upon
vesting

F-93

CIPOP plan (including phantom options)

Options will vest (i.e., become exercisable) at the end of a “performance period” which has been set by the Nomination remuneration committee at the time of grant (although such period will not be less than three years). However, the percentage of an option which vests on this date will be determined by the extent to which pre-determined performance conditions have been satisfied. Phantom options are exercisable proportionate to the period of service rendered by the employee subject to completion of one year.

CIESOP plan

There are no specific vesting conditions under CIESOP plan other than completion of the minimum service period. Phantom options are exercisable proportionate to the period of service rendered by the employee subject to completion of one year.

Details of employees stock option plans is presented below

CIPOP Plan

Year ended March 31, 2017

Year ended March 31, 2018

Number of
options

Weighted
average
exercise price
in ₹

Number of
options

Weighted
average
exercise price
in ₹

Outstanding at the beginning of the year

5,061,646

10.00

Nil

Granted during the year

Nil

Expired during the year

Nil

Exercised during the year

939,680

10.00

Nil

Forfeited / cancelled during the year

1,633,634

10.00

Nil

Modified during the year (refer note below)

2,488,332

Nil

Outstanding at the end of the year

Nil

Exercisable at the end of the year

Nil

Weighted average share price at the date of exercise of stock options is ₹ 196 and NA for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively.

CIESOP Plan

Year ended March 31, 2017

Year ended March 31, 2018

Number of
options

Weighted
average
exercise price
in ₹

Number of
options

Weighted
average
exercise price
in ₹

Outstanding at the beginning of the year

9,602,201

302.56

8,962,666

264.31

Granted during the year

Nil

Expired during the year

Nil

Exercised during the year

89,402

165.07

1,592,759

213.75

Forfeited / cancelled during the year

550,133

296.45

239,282

268.24

Outstanding at the end of the year

8,962,666

264.31*

7,130,625

275.47

Exercisable at the end of the year

8,962,666

264.31*

7,130,625

275.47

Weighted average share price at the date of exercise of stock options is ₹ 227.41 and ₹ 324.64 ($ 5.0) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

CIPOP Plan – Phantom options

Year ended March 31, 2017

Year ended March 31, 2018

Number of
options

Weighted
average
exercise price
in ₹

Number of
options

Weighted
average
exercise price
in ₹

Outstanding at the beginning of the year

825,184

10.00

Nil

Granted during the year

Nil

Expired during the year

Nil

Exercised during the year

Nil

Forfeited / cancelled during the year

492,021

10.00

Nil

Modified during the year (refer note below)

333,163

Nil

Outstanding at the end of the year

Nil

Exercisable at the end of the year

Nil

F-94

Scheme

Range of
exercise
price in ₹

No. of
options
outstanding

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual life
of options (in
years)

Weighted
average exercise
price in ₹

The details of exercise price for stock options outstanding as at March 31, 2018 are:

CIPOP Plan

Nil

CIESOP Plan

187-291.25

7,130,625

275.47

CIPOP Plan – Phantom options

Nil

The details of exercise price for stock options outstanding as at March 31, 2017 are:

CIPOP Plan

Nil

CIESOP Plan

126.95-291.25

8,962,666

264.31

CIPOP Plan – Phantom options

Nil

*	During the year, consequent to the merger of erstwhile Cairn India Limited with Vedanta Limited the exercise price has been reduced by ₹ 40 per option i.e. from ₹ 304.31 to ₹ 264.31 per option. (Refer note 1)

Effect of the above employee share-based payment plans on the statement of profit and loss and on its financial position:

(₹ in million)


*Particulars*	March 31, 2016		March 31, 2017
Total Employee Compensation Cost pertaining to share-based payment plans		356		207
Compensation Cost pertaining to equity-settled employee share-based payment plan included above		343		158
Compensation Cost pertaining to cash-settled employee share-based payment plan included above		13		49

Volatility is the measure of the amount by which the price has fluctuated or is expected to fluctuate during the period. The measure of volatility used in Black-Scholes option-pricing model is the annualized standard deviation of the continuously compounded rates of return on the stock over a period of time. Time to maturity /expected life of options is the period for which the Company expects the options to be live. Time to maturity has been calculated as an average of the minimum and maximum life of the options.

Modification in terms of Employee stock option plans

Pursuant to the merger of Cairn India Limited with the Company as referred to in note 1, the stock option plans of Cairn India Limited stands modified as follows:

The exercise price of CIESOP plan is reduced by Rs 40 per option.

The liability w.r.t. the CIPOP plans (including phantom options) has been fixed based on the share price of Cairn India Limited as on March 27, 2017, being the effective date of merger. Accordingly, the outstanding employee stock option liability (Equity Settled) and Provision for employee stock option (Cash Settled) of ₹ 625 million and ₹ 83 million respectively, has been transferred to financial liability.

F-95

The incremental fair value for the remaining stock options, being the difference between the fair value of the modified equity instrument and that of the original equity instrument, has been re-estimated on the effective date of merger and the difference has been recognized in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.

Employee share option plan of Vedanta Resources Plc

The value of shares that are awarded to members of the Group is calculated by reference to the individual fixed salary and share-based remuneration consistent with local market practice. ESOP scheme of VRPLC is both tenure and performance based share schemes. The options are indexed to and settled by Parent’s shares (Vedanta Resources Plc shares as defined in the scheme). The options have a fixed exercise price denominated in Parent’s functional currency (10 US cents per share), the performance period of each option is three years and is exercisable within a period of six months from the date of vesting beyond which the option lapses.

Amount recovered by the Parent and recognised by the Company in the Consolidated Statements of Profit or Loss for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 is ₹ 628 million and ₹ 527 million respectively. The Company considers these amounts as not material and accordingly has not provided further disclosures.

The Group has awarded certain cash settled share based options indexed to Parents’ shares(Vedanta Resources Plc shares) and shares of any of its subsidiaries. The total expense recognised on account of cash settled share based plan during the year ended March 31, 2018 is ₹ 220 million and the carrying value of cash settled share based compensation liability as at March 31, 2018 is ₹ 220 million.

Out of the total expense of ₹ 995 million pertaining to equity settled options for the year ended March 31, 2018, the Group has capitalised ₹ 38 million expense for the year ended March 31, 2018.

27. Earnings per share (“EPS”)

The following reflects the income and share data used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

Computation of weighted average number of shares


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017		2018
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for basic earnings per share		2,965,004,871		2,964,333,584		3,709,778,760
Effect of dilution:
Potential ordinary shares relating to share option awards		—		1,227,287		7,687,551
Adjusted weighted average number of ordinary shares for diluted earnings per share		2,965,004,871		2,965,560,871		3,717,466,311

Computation of basic and diluted earnings per share

Basic earnings per share:

For the year ended March 31,

2016

2017

2018

(₹ in million
except EPS data)

(US dollars in
million except EPS
data)

Profit / (loss) for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent

(125,153)

55,033

13,705

210

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for basic earnings per share*

2,965,004,871

2,964,333,584

3,709,778,760

Earnings / (loss) per share

(42.21)

18.57

3.69

0.06

F-96

Diluted earnings per share:

For the year ended March 31,

2016

2017

2018

(₹ in million
except EPS data)

(US dollars in
million except EPS
data)

Profit / (loss) for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent

(125,153)

55,033

13,705

210

Adjusted weighted average number of ordinary shares for diluted earnings per share*

2,965,004,871

2,965,560,871

3,717,466,311

Earnings / (loss) per share

(42.21)

18.56

3.69

0.06

*	After excluding the impact of treasury shares

28. Options to acquire subsidiary’s shares—

a. Call option — HZL

Pursuant to the Government of India’s policy of disinvestment, the Group in April 2002 acquired 26% equity interest in Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) from the Government of India. Under the terms of the Shareholder’s Agreement (‘SHA’), the Group had two call options to purchase all of the Government of India’s shares in HZL at fair market value. The Group exercised the first call option on August 29, 2003 and acquired an additional 18.9% of HZL’s issued share capital. The Group also acquired an additional 20% of the equity capital in HZL through an open offer, increasing its shareholding to 64.9%. The second call option provided the Group the right to acquire the Government of India’s remaining 29.5% share in HZL. This call option was subject to the right of the Government of India to sell 3.5% of HZL shares to HZL employees. The Group exercised the second call option on July 21, 2009. The Government of India disputed the validity of the call option and refused to act upon the second call option. Consequently the Group invoked arbitration which is in the early stages. The next date of hearing is scheduled for November 23, 2018. Meanwhile, the Government of India without prejudice to the position on the Put/Call option issue has received approval from the Cabinet for disinvestment and the Government is looking to divest through the auction route.

b. Call option — BALCO

Pursuant to the Government of India’s policy of divestment, the Group in March 2001 acquired 51% equity interest in BALCO from the Government of India. Under the terms of the SHA, the Group had a call option to purchase the Government of India’s remaining ownership interest in BALCO at any point from March 2, 2004. The Group exercised this option on March 19, 2004. However, the Government of India contested the valuation and validity of the option and contended that the clauses of the SHA violate the erstwhile Companies Act, 1956 by restricting the rights of the Government of India to transfer its shares and that as a result such provisions of the SHA were null and void. In the arbitration filed by the Group, the arbitral tribunal by a majority award rejected the claims of the Group on the ground that the clauses relating to the call option, the right of first refusal, the “tag-along” rights and the restriction on the transfer of shares violate the erstwhile Companies Act, 1956 and are not enforceable. The Group has challenged the validity of the majority award in the High Court of Delhi and sought for setting aside the arbitration award to the extent that it holds these clauses ineffective and inoperative. The Government of India also filed an application before the High Court of Delhi to partially set aside the arbitral award in respect of certain matters involving valuation. The matter is currently scheduled for hearing by the Delhi High Court on November 19, 2018. Meanwhile, the Government of India without prejudice to its position on the Put/Call option issue has received approval from the Cabinet for divestment and the Government is looking to divest through the auction route.

On January 9, 2012, the Group offered to acquire the Government of India’s interests in HZL and BALCO for the INR equivalent of ₹ 154,920 million ($2,389 million) and ₹ 17,820 million ($275 million) respectively. This offer was separate from the contested exercise of the call options, and Group proposed to withdraw the ongoing litigations in relation to the contested exercise of the options should the offer be accepted. To date, the offer has not been accepted by the Government of India and therefore, there is no certainty that the acquisition will proceed.

The Group continues to include the shareholding in the two companies HZL and BALCO, in respect of which the Group has a call option as non-controlling interest.

F-97

In view of the lack of resolution on the options, the non-response to the exercise and valuation request from the Government of India, the resultant uncertainty surrounding the potential transaction and the valuation of the consideration payable, the Group considers the strike price of the options to be at fair value, which is effectively nil, and hence the call options have not been recognised in the financial statements.

29. Commitments, contingencies, and guarantees

In the normal course of business, the Group enters into certain capital commitments and also gives certain financial guarantees.

A. Capital commitments

The Group had significant capital commitments as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 amounting to ₹ 71,486 million and ₹ 123,157 million ($ 1,892 million) respectively, related primarily to capacity expansion projects, including commitments amounting to ₹ 977 million ($15 million) (previous year ₹ 2,152 million) for its commercial power generation business, ₹ 20,469 million ($ 314 million) (previous year ₹ 24,843 million) for capacity expansion at its aluminium business, ₹ 19,844 million ($ 305 million) (previous year ₹ 15,539 million) for capacity expansion at HZL, ₹ 27,578 million ($ 424 million) (previous year ₹ 14,106 million) at its copper business, ₹ 43,464 million ($ 661 million) (previous year ₹ 1,429 million) for expansion at Cairn and ₹ 10,572 million ($ 162 million) (previous year ₹ 13,354 million) for expansion at BMM.

B. Guarantees

The aggregate amount of indemnities and other guarantees on which the Group does not expect any material losses, was ₹ 22,591 million and ₹ 27,036 ($ 415 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

The Group has given guarantees in the normal course of business as stated below:

•

Guarantees including corporate guarantees on the issuance of customs and excise duty bonds amounting to ₹ 4,391 million and ₹ 6,981 million ($ 107 million) for the import of goods as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

•

Performance bank guarantees amounting to ₹ 4,355 million and ₹ 4,021 million ($ 62 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. These guarantees are issued in the normal course of business while bidding for supply contracts or in lieu of advances received from customers. These are contractual guarantees and are enforceable if the terms and conditions of the contracts are not met and the maximum liability on these contracts is the amount mentioned above. The Group does not anticipate any liability on these guarantees.

•

Bank guarantees for securing supplies of materials and services in the normal course of business. The value of these guarantees as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 was ₹ 5,444 million and ₹ 6,739 million ($ 104 million) respectively. The Group has also given bank guarantees in the normal course of business for an aggregate value of ₹ 953 million and ₹ 1,210 million ($ 19 million) for litigation, against provisional valuation of custom duty and for other liabilities as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. The Group does not anticipate any liability on these guarantees.

•

Bank guarantees of ₹ 1,150 million ($ 18 million) has been provided by the Group on behalf of Volcan Investments Limited to Income tax department, India as a collateral in respect of certain tax disputes.

•

Other guarantees including corporate guarantees issued to various agencies, suppliers and government authorities is ₹ 6,298 million and ₹ 6,935 million ($ 107 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

C. Export Obligations

The Indian entities of the Group have export obligations of ₹ 171,647 million and ₹ 123,854 million ($ 1,902 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively on account of concessional rates of import duty paid on capital goods under the Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme and under the Advance Licence Scheme for the import of raw material laid down by the Government of India.

In the event of the Group’s inability to meet its obligations, the Group’s liability would be ₹ 16,965 million and ₹ 11,015 million ($ 169 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively reduced in proportion to actual exports, plus applicable interest.

D. Contingencies

The Group discloses the following legal and tax cases as contingent liabilities.

F-98

Erstwhile Cairn India Limited: Income tax

In March 2014, erstwhile Cairn India Limited (referred to as ‘Cairn India’) received a show cause notice from the Indian Tax Authorities (“Tax Authorities”) for not deducting withholding tax on the payments made to Cairn UK Holdings Limited (“CUHL”), for acquiring shares of Cairn India Holdings Limited (“CIHL”), as part of their internal reorganisation. Tax Authorities have stated in the notice that a short-term capital gain has accrued to CUHL on transfer of the shares of CIHL to Cairn India, in the financial year 2006-2007, on which tax should have been withheld by Cairn India. Pursuant to this various replies were filed with the tax authorities.

Cairn India also filed a writ petition before the Delhi High Court wherein it has raised several points for assailing the aforementioned Income tax Authority’s order.

After several hearings, the Income Tax Authority, in March 2015, issued an order holding Cairn India as ‘assessee in default’ and raised a demand totalling ₹ 204,947 million ($ 3,148 million) (including interest of ₹ 102,473 million ($ 1,574 million)). Cairn India had filed an appeal before the First Appellate Authority, Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals) which vide order dated July 03, 2017 confirmed the tax demand against Cairn India. Cairn India has challenged the Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals) order before Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT).

As a result of the above order from ITAT, the Group now considers the risk in respect of the interest portion of claim to be remote. Further, as per the recent attachment notice received from the Tax Recovery Officer appointed for CUHL, the tax officer has adjusted the dividend of ₹ 6,666 million ($ 102 million) which was due to CUHL and was recovered by the Tax department. Vedanta Limited has further remitted additional dividend of ₹ 4,415 million ($ 68 million) further reducing the principal liability to ₹ 91,393 million ($ 1,404 million). Accordingly, the Group has revised the contingent liability to ₹ 91,393 million ($ 1,404 million).

Additionally, the Tax department has initiated the process of selling the attached CUHL investment in 18,41,25,764 equity shares and 73,65,03,056 preference shares of Vedanta Limited valuing ₹ 58,607 million ($ 900 million) based on the quoted price as at March 31, 2018 out of which Government of India has sold 6,44,67,715 equity shares of Vedanta Limited till July 13, 2018 for the recovery of tax amount.

In the event, the case is finally decided against Cairn India, the potential liability including interest would be ₹ 204,947 million ($ 3,148 million).

Separately but in connection with this litigation, Vedanta Resources Plc has filed a Notice of Claim against the Government of India (‘GOI’) under the UK India Bilateral Investment Treaty (the “BIT”). The International arbitration Tribunal recently passed favourable order on jurisdiction and now the matter would be heard on merits. The Government of India has challenged jurisdiction order of Arbitration Tribunal before the High court of Singapore.

Vedanta Limited: Contractor claim

Shenzhen Shandong Nuclear Power Construction Co. Limited (‘SSNP’) subsequent to terminating the EPC contract invoked arbitration as per the contract alleging non-payment of their dues towards construction of a 210 MW co-generation power plant for the 6 MTPA expansion project, and filed a claim of ₹ 16,420 million ($ 252 million). SSNP also filed a petition under Section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 before the Bombay High Court requesting for interim relief. The Bombay High Court initially dismissed their petition, but on a further appeal by SSNP, the Division Bench of the Bombay High Court directed Vedanta Limited to deposit a bank guarantee for an amount of ₹ 1,870 million ($ 29 million) as a security, being a prima facie representation of the claim, until arbitration proceedings are completed. Vedanta Limited has deposited a bank guarantee of an equivalent amount. Based on the assessment, the company had booked the liability for ₹ 2,000 million ($ 31 million) in earlier years.

On November 09, 2017, the Arbitral Tribunal has pronounced the award in favor of SSNP for ₹ 2,210 million ($ 34 million) along with the interest and cost of ₹ 1,180 million ($ 18 million) (@ 9% p.a. from date of filing petition, i.e. April 18, 2012). The amount is payable subject to SSNP handing over all the drawings to the company. Given the company was already carrying a part provision it recognized additional liability of ₹ 1,390 million ($ 21 million) including interest and cost making the total liability towards SSNP as ₹ 3,390 million ($ 52 million). The additional amount recognized in the income statement includes ₹ 1,134 million ($ 17 million) which has been presented under finance cost.

F-99

The company has challenged the award under section 34 of The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, which was dismissed. Subsequently, the company has filed an appeal under section 37 of The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 with the Delhi High Court. The Court has granted a stay subject to deposit of the award amount, which has been complied by the Company. The hearing on the arguments in the matter have been completed and the matter has now been reserved for orders.

Ravva Joint Venture arbitration proceedings: ONGC Carry

Erstwhile Cairn India Limited (referred to as ‘Cairn India’) is involved in a dispute against the Government of India (GOI) relating to the recovery of contractual costs in terms of calculation of payments that the contractor party were required to make in connection with the Ravva field.

The Ravva Production Sharing Contract “PSC” obliges the contractor parties to pay a proportionate share of ONGC’s exploration, development, production and contract costs in consideration for ONGC’s payment of costs related to the construction and other activities it conducted in Ravva prior to the effective date of the Ravva PSC (the ‘‘ONGC Carry’’). The question as to how the ONGC Carry is to be recovered and calculated, along with other issues, was submitted to an international arbitration Tribunal in August 2002 which rendered a decision on the ONGC Carry in favour of the contractor parties whereas four other issues were decided in favour of GOI in October 2004 (“Partial Award”).

The GOI then proceeded to challenge the ONGC Carry decision before the Malaysian courts, as Kuala Lumpur was the seat of the arbitration. The Federal Court of Malaysia which adjudicated the matter on October 11, 2011, upheld the Partial Award. Per the decision of the Arbitral Tribunal, the contractor parties and GOI were required to arrive at a quantification of the sums relatable to each of the issues under the Partial Award.

Pursuant to the decision of the Federal Court, the contractor parties approached the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (“MoPNG”) to implement the Partial Award while reconciling the statement of accounts as outlined in the Partial Award.

However, MoPNG on July 10, 2014 proceeded to issue a Show Cause Notice alleging that since the partial award has not been enforced, the profit petroleum share of GOI has been short-paid. MoPNG threatened to recover the amount from the sale proceeds payable by the oil marketing companies to the contractor parties. The contractor party replied to the show cause notice taking various legal contentions.

As the Partial Award did not quantify the sums, therefore, contractor parties approached the same Arbitral Tribunal to pass a Final Award in the subject matter since it had retained the jurisdiction to do so. The Arbitral Tribunal was reconstituted and the Final Award was passed in October 2016 in Cairn India’s favour. GOI’s challenge of the Final Award was dismissed by the Malaysian High Court. GOI has challenged the decision before the Court of Appeal,. Further, Cairn India has also filed for the enforcement of the Partial Award and Final Award with Delhi High Court which is scheduled to be heard on September 04, 2018. While Cairn India does not believe the GOI will be successful in its challenge, if the Arbitral Award is reversed and such reversal is binding, Cairn India could be liable for approximately ₹ 4,156 million ($ 64 million) plus interest as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.

Proceedings related to the Imposition of Entry Tax

The Company along with its other group companies i.e. Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO) and Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) challenged the constitutional validity of the local statutes and related notifications in the states of Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Rajasthan pertaining to the levy of entry tax on the entry of goods brought into the respective states from outside.

Post some contradictory orders of High Courts across India adjudicating on similar challenges, the Supreme Court referred the matters to a nine judge bench. Post a detailed hearing, although the bench rejected the compensatory nature of tax as a ground of challenge, it maintained status quo with respect to all other issues which have been left open for adjudication by regular benches hearing the matters.

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Following the order of the nine judge bench, the regular bench of the Supreme Court proceeded with hearing the matters. The regular bench remanded the entry tax matters relating to the issue of discrimination against domestic goods bought from other States to the respective High Courts for final determination but retained the issue of jurisdiction for levy on imported goods, for determination by regular bench of Supreme Court. Following the order of the Supreme Court, the Group filed writ petitions in respective High Courts.

On October 09, 2017, the Supreme Court has held that States have the jurisdiction to levy entry tax on imported goods. With this Supreme Court judgement, imported goods will rank pari-passu with domestic goods for the purpose of levy of Entry tax. Vedanta Limited and its subsidiaries have amended their appeals (writ petitions) in Odisha and Chhattisgarh to include imported goods as well. With respect to Rajasthan, the State Government has filed a counter petition in the Rajasthan High Court, whereby it has admitted that it does not intend to levy the entry tax on imported goods.

The issue pertaining to the levy of entry tax on the movement of goods into a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) remains pending before the Odisha High Court. The Group has challenged the levy of entry tax on any movement of goods into an SEZ based on the definition of ‘local area’ under the Odisha Entry Tax Act which is very clear and does not include an SEZ. In addition, the Government of Odisha further through its SEZ Policy 2015 and the operational guidelines for administration of this policy dated August 22, 2016, exempted the entry tax levy on SEZ operations.

The total claims against Vedanta Limited and its subsidiaries are ₹ 11,274 million and ₹ 12,551 million ($ 193 million) net of provisions made as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Talwandi Sabo Power Limited (TSPL) : Proceedings related to claim for liquidated damages

TSPL entered into a long term PPA with PSPCL for the supply of power. Due to delays in the fulfilment of certain obligations by PSPCL as per the PPA and force majeure events, there was a delay in completion of the project as per the PPA timelines. TSPL has received notices of claims from PSPCL seeking payment of Liquidated damages (LD) for delay in commissioning of Unit I, II and III totaling to ₹ 9,529 million ($ 146 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.

During the financial year 2014-15, PSPCL had invoked the Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) of ₹ 1,500 million to recover the LD on account of delay in Commercial Operation Date (COD). Against the PBG invocation, stay was granted by PSERC and this was later upheld by APTEL as well. The matter was referred to Arbitration by a panel of three Arbitrators. The arbitration proceedings have concluded and the order has been passed on September 18, 2017 in TSPL’s favour. The said claim of ₹ 9,529 million ($ 146 million) was part of contingent liability as at March 31, 2017. However pursuant to the order passed, the claim has been considered to be resolved with no exposure remaining for the company. PSPCL has filed a Sec 34 Application challenging the award.

HZL: Department of Mines and Geology

The Department of Mines and Geology of the State of Rajasthan issued several show cause notices in August, September and October 2006 to HZL, totalling ₹ 3,339 million ($51 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. These notices alleged unlawful occupation and unauthorised mining of associated minerals other than zinc and lead at HZL’s Rampura Agucha, Rajpura Dariba and Zawar mines in Rajasthan during the period from July 1968 to March 2006. HZL believes it is unlikely that the claim will lead to a future obligation and thus no provision has been made in the financial statements. HZL had filed appeals (writ petitions) in the High Court of Rajasthan in Jodhpur. The High Court restrained the Department of Mines and Geology from undertaking any coercive measures to recover the penalty. Central Government has also been made a party to the case.

BALCO: Challenge against imposition of Energy Development Cess

BALCO challenged the imposition of Energy Development Cess levied on generators and distributors of electrical energy at the rate of 10 paise per unit on the electrical energy sold or supplied before the High Court on the grounds that the Cess is effectively on production and not on consumption or sale since the figures of consumption are not taken into account and the Cess is discriminatory since captive power plants are required to pay @ 10 paise while the State Electricity Board is required to pay @ 5 paise. The High Court of Chhattisgarh by order dated December 15, 2006 declared the provisions imposing ED Cess on CPPs as discriminatory and therefore ultra vires the Constitution. The Group has sought refund of ED Cess paid till March 2006 amounting to ₹ 345 million ($ 5 million).

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The State of Chhattisgarh moved an SLP in the Supreme Court and whilst issuing notice has stayed the refund of the Cess already deposited and Supreme Court has also directed the State of Chhattisgarh to raise the bills but no coercive action be taken for recovery for the same. Final argument in this matter started before Supreme Court. In case the Supreme Court overturns the decision of the High Court, Balco would be liable to pay an additional amount of ₹ 5,758 million and ₹ 6,554 million ($ 101 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively and the company may have to bear a charge of ₹ 6,103 million and ₹ 6,899 million ($ 106 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

South Africa Carry Cost

As part of the farm-in agreement for Block 1, the Group was required to carry its joint venture partner, Petro SA, up to a gross expenditure of US $ 100 million (approximately ₹ 6,511 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 for a work program including 3D and 2D seismic studies and at least one exploration well. The Group has spent US $ 38 million (approximately ₹ 2,474 million) towards exploration expenditure and a minimum carry of US $ 62 million (approximately ₹ 4,037 million) (including drilling one well) was outstanding at the end of the initial exploration period. The Group had sought an extension for execution of deed for entry into the second renewal phase of the exploration period with a request to maintain status quo of the prior approvals due to uncertainty in the proposed changes in fiscal terms impacting the Group financial interest in the block. The same was granted by the South African authority subject to risk of exploration right getting expired on account of recent High Court judgements. After assessing past judicial precedents followed by independent legal advice, the Company has provided for the requisite damages as applicable under the South African Regulations and obligation for the aforesaid carry cost of US $ 62 million (approximately ₹ 4,037 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 has been assessed as possible and thus not provided for.

Miscellaneous disputes- Income tax

The Group is involved in various tax disputes amounting to ₹ 63,348 million and ₹ 65,610 million ($ 1,008 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively relating to Income tax.

These mainly relates to the disallowance of tax holiday for 100% Export Oriented Undertaking under section 10B of the Income Tax Act, 1961, disallowance of tax holiday benefit on production of gas under section 80IB of the Income Tax Act, 1961, tax holiday for undertakings located in certain notified areas under section 80IC of the Income Tax Act, 1961, disallowance of tax holiday benefit for power plants under section 80IA of the Income Tax Act, 1961, on account of depreciation disallowances, disallowance under section 14A of the Income Tax Act and interest thereon which are pending at various appellate levels.

Miscellaneous disputes

The Group is subject to various claims and exposures which arise in the ordinary course of conducting and financing its business from the indirect tax authorities and others. These claims and exposures mostly relate to the assessable values of sales and purchases or to incomplete documentation supporting the companies’ returns or other claims.

The approximate value of claims against the Group companies excluding claims shown above total ₹ 30,909 million and ₹ 36,032 million ($ 553 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

The Group considers that it can take steps such that all the above risks can be mitigated and that there are no significant liabilities arising which are not provided for.

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E. Operating Lease commitments

As lessee

Operating leases are in relation to the office premises, office equipment and other assets, some of which are cancellable and some are non-cancellable. There is an escalation clause in the lease agreements during the primary lease period. There are no restrictions imposed by lease arrangements and there are no sub leases. The total of the future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable lease are as follow:


	As at 31 March 2017		As at 31 March 2018		As at 31 March 2018
Particulars	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US Dollars in million)
Within one year of the balance sheet date		12		39		1
Due in a period between one year and five years		51		50		1
Due after five years		20		11		0
Total		83		100		2

Lease payments recognized as expenses on non-cancellable lease is ₹ 285 million and ₹ 13 million ($ 0 million) during the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

ii.

As lessor

TSPL has ascertained that the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) entered with Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) qualifies to be an operating lease under IAS 17 ‘Leases’. Based on the assessment that the lease payments by PSPCL are subject to variations on account of various factors like availability of coal, water, etc., the management has determined the entire consideration receivable under the PPA relating to recovery of capacity charges towards capital cost to be contingent rent under IAS 17. The contingent rent recognised as revenue in the consolidated statements of profit or loss during the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 is ₹ 12,287 million and ₹ 12,358 million ($ 190.0 million) respectively.

F. Other Matters

During the year ended March 31, 2018, the Group has recognised the reversal of provisions of ₹ 2,913 million ($ 45 million) relating to contribution to the District Mineral Foundation. Effective January 12, 2015, The Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act, 1957 prescribed the establishment of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) in any district affected by mining related operations. The provisions required contribution of an amount equivalent to a percentage of royalty not exceeding one-third thereof, as may be prescribed by the Central Government of India. The rates were prescribed on September 17, 2015 for minerals other than coal, lignite and sand and on October 20, 2015 for coal, lignite and sand as amended on August 31, 2016. The Supreme Court order dated October 13, 2017 has determined the prospective applicability of the contributions from the date of the notification fixing such rate of contribution and hence DMF would be effective;

a) For minerals other than coal, lignite and sand from the date when the rates were prescribed by the Central Government; and;

b) For coal, lignite and sand, DMF would be effective from the date when the rates were prescribed by the Central Government of India or from the date on which the DMF was established by the State Government by a notification, whichever is later.

ii.

Scheme of Amalgamation

The Scheme of Amalgamation and Arrangement amongst Sterlite Energy Limited (‘SEL’), Sterlite Industries (India) Limited (‘Sterlite’), Vedanta Aluminium Limited (‘VAL’), Ekaterina Limited (‘Ekaterina’), Madras Aluminium Company Limited (‘Malco’) and the Company (the “Scheme”) had been sanctioned by the Honourable High Court of Madras and the Honourable High Court of Judicature of Bombay at Goa and was given effect to in the year ended March 31, 2014.

Subsequent to the effectiveness of the Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme, special leave petitions challenging the orders of the High Court of Bombay at Goa were filed before the Supreme Court of India by the Commissioner of Income Tax, Goa and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, respectively. The Supreme Court of India has admitted the special leave petitions and the matter is pending for hearing. Further, a creditor and a shareholder have challenged the Amalgamation and Re-organization Scheme in the High Court of Madras. Additionally, the Ministry of Mines, GoI has challenged the Amalgamation and Reorganisation Scheme before the High Court of Madras and the High Court of Bombay, Goa Bench.

F-103

30. Segment information

The Group is a diversified natural resource group engaged in exploring, extracting and processing minerals and oil and gas. The Group produces zinc, lead, silver, copper, aluminium, iron ore, oil and gas, commercial power and glass substrate and has a presence across India, South Africa, U.A.E, Namibia, Ireland, Australia, Liberia, South Korea and Taiwan. The Group has seven reportable segments: copper, aluminum, iron ore, power, Zinc India (comprises of zinc, silver and lead India), Zinc international, oil and gas and other. The management of the Group is organized by its main products: copper, zinc (comprises of zinc and lead India, silver India and zinc international), aluminum, iron ore, oil and gas, power and others. Each of the reportable segments derives its revenues from these main products and hence these have been identified as reportable segments by the Group’s chief operating decision maker (“CODM”).

Copper

The Group’s copper business is owned and operated by the Company, Copper Mines of Tasmania Pty Ltd (“CMT”) and Fujairah Gold FZC and is principally one of custom smelting and includes a copper smelter, a refinery, a phosphoric acid plant, a sulphuric acid plant, a copper rod plant and three captive power plants at Tuticorin in Southern India, and a refinery and two copper rod plants at Silvassa in Western India. In addition, the Group owns and operates the Mt. Lyell copper mine in Tasmania, Australia through its subsidiary, CMT, which provides a small percentage of the copper concentrate requirements (presently under care and maintenance), and a precious metal refinery and copper rod plant in Fujairah through its subsidiary Fujairah Gold FZC in the UAE.

Zinc India

The Group’s zinc India business is owned and operated by Hindustan Zinc Limited (“HZL”) in which it has a 64.9% interest as at March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. HZL’s operations include five lead-zinc mines, one rock phosphate mine, four hydrometallurgical zinc smelters, two lead smelters, one pyro metallurgical lead-zinc smelter, eight sulphuric acid plants, a silver refinery and six captive power plants in State of Rajasthan in Northwest India and one zinc ingot processing and refining plant at Haridwar and one silver refinery, one zinc ingot processing and refining plant and one lead ingot processing and refining plant at Pantnagar in the State of Uttarakhand in North India.

Zinc International

The Group’s zinc international business comprises Skorpion mine and refinery in Namibia operated through THL Zinc Namibia Holdings (Proprietary) Limited (“Skorpion”), Lisheen mine in Ireland operated through Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited (“Lisheen”) and Black Mountain Mining (Proprietary) Limited (“BMM”), whose assets include the Black Mountain mine and the Gamsberg mine project which is in development stage, located in South Africa. The Group has 100% interest in Skorpion, 74% interest in BMM and 100% interest in Lisheen (which owns the Lisheen mine in Ireland which has ceased operations in December 2015).

Aluminum

The Group’s aluminium business is owned and operated by the Company and Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (“BALCO”) in which it has a 51% interest as at March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. Vedanta Limited’s Aluminium operations include a refinery and a captive power plant at Lanjigarh and a smelter, a thermal coal based captive power facility at Jharsuguda both situated in the State of Odisha in India. The pots are in the stage of commissioning in the 1.25 mtpa Jharsuguda-II Aluminium smelter with 879 pots having been commissioned by March 31, 2018. BALCO’s partially integrated aluminium operations are comprised of two bauxite mines, captive power plants, smelting and fabrication facilities in central India.

Power

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Iron ore

The Group’s iron ore business is owned by Vedanta Limited and by two wholly owned subsidiaries, Sesa Resources Limited and Sesa Mining Corporation Limited and consists of exploration, mining and processing of iron ore, pig iron and metallurgical coke. The mining operations are carried out at Codli group, Bicholim mine, Surla mine and the Sonshi group of mines in state of Goa and Narrain mine, situated at state of Karnataka in India, a metallurgical coke and pig iron plant in state of Goa in India and also has a power plant in state of Goa in India for captive use. Group’s iron ore business also comprises Western Cluster Limited (“WCL”) in Liberia which has iron ore assets and is wholly owned subsidiary of the Group. WCL’s assets include development rights to western cluster and a network of iron ore deposits in West Africa. WCL’s assets were fully impaired in the year ended March 31, 2016.

The Group has recognised an impairment charge on its iron ore assets in Goa during the year ended March 31, 2018. (Refer note 8)

Oil and gas

The Group’s oil and gas business is owned and operated by the Company and its subsidiary Cairn Energy Hydrocarbon Limited and engaged in business of exploration and development and production of oil and gas. The Group has a diversified asset base with six blocks, one in state of Rajasthan in India, one on the west coast of India, three on the east coast of India and one in South Africa.

Other

The Group’s other activities include Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited (“VGCB”) and Maritime Ventures Private Limited (“MVPL) in which the Group owns a 100% interest. Vizag port project includes mechanisation of coal handling facilities at the outer harbor of Vishakhapatnam port on the east coast of India. MVPL is engaged in the business of rendering logistics and other allied services inter alia rendering stevedoring, and other allied services in Ports and other allied sectors. In December 2017, the Company through its wholly owned subsidiary, acquired 51.63% equity stake in AvanStrate (‘ASI’) which is also included in other segments. ASI is involved in manufacturing of glass substrate. (Refer Note 1)

Segment Revenue, Profit, Assets and Liabilities include the respective amounts identifiable to each of the segments and amount allocated on a reasonable basis. Unallocated expenditure consists of common expenditure incurred for all the segments and expenses incurred at corporate level. The assets and liabilities that cannot be allocated between the segments are shown as unallocated assets and unallocated liabilities respectively.

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as the Group’s accounting policies described in Note 3. The operating segments reported are the segments of the Group for which separate financial information is available. Earnings before interest, depreciation and amortisation and tax (Segment profit) are evaluated regularly by the CODM in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Group’s financing (including finance and other costs and investment and other income) and income taxes are reviewed on an overall basis and are not allocated to operating segments. Transfer prices between operating segments are on an arm’s length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third parties except from power segment sales amounting to ₹ 413 million and ₹ 1,328 million ($ 20 million) which is at cost for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

F-105

The following table presents revenue and profit information and certain assets information regarding the Group’s business segments as at and for the year ended March 31, 2016 , March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.

a. For the year ended March 31, 2016


	Copper		Zinc India		Zinc International		Aluminium		Power		Iron Ore		Oil and Gas		Others		Elimination		Total
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)
Revenue
Sales^#		209,239		137,945		25,631		110,781		45,523		22,233		86,559		1,582		—		639,493
Inter-segment sales		23		—		—		129		4,303		541		—		245		(5,241)		—
Segment revenue		209,262		137,945		25,631		110,910		49,826		22,774		86,559		1,827		(5,241)		639,493
Cost of Sales and expenses		(187,057)		(70,975)		(21,070)		(102,443)		(37,167)		(18,407)		(52,286)		(1,259)		5,241		(485,423)
Segment profit		22,205		66,970		4,561		8,467		12,659		4,367		34,273		568		—		154,070
Depreciation and amortisation		(2,048)		(7,558)		(3,730)		(7,051)		(4,438)		(4,106)		(54,088)		(324)		—		(83,343)
Impairment (Refer Note 8)		(497)		—		—		—		—		(16,054)		(322,998)		—		—		(339,549)

Operating profit / (loss)		19,660		59,412		831		1,416		8,221		(15,793)		(342,813)		244		—		(268,822)
Finance and other costs																				(59,584)
Investment and other income																				43,998

Loss before tax																				(284,408)

#	Includes sale to external customers and export incentives.

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b. For the year ended March 31, 2017


	Copper		Zinc India		Zinc International		Aluminium		Power		Iron Ore		Oil and Gas		Others		Elimination		Total
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)
Revenue
Sales^#		210,021		169,194		22,302		136,667		55,189		40,880		82,041		913		—		717,207
Inter-segment sales		155		206		—		195		890		410		—		70		(1,926)		—
Segment revenue		210,176		169,400		22,302		136,862		56,079		41,290		82,041		983		(1,926)		717,207
Cost of Sales and expenses		(193,212)		(73,901)		(13,121)		(113,662)		(39,637)		(28,199)		(41,149)		(869)		1,926		(501,824)
Segment profit		16,964		95,499		9,181		23,200		16,442		13,091		40,892		114		—		215,383
Depreciation and amortisation		(1,938)		(10,008)		(1,845)		(9,468)		(5,685)		(4,688)		(27,532)		(313)		—		(61,477)
Impairment (Refer Note 8)		—		—		—		(2,007)		—		—		845		—		—		(1,162)

Operating profit / (loss)		15,026		85,491		7,336		11,725		10,757		8,403		14,205		(199)		—		152,744
Finance and other costs																				(61,600)
Investment and other income																				45,428

Profit before tax																				136,572

Assets and liabilities
Assets
Segment assets*		77,864		156,661		35,950		460,532		178,762		91,323		165,262		5,318		—		1,171,672
Financial assets investments																				695
Deferred tax asset																				77,582
Short-term investments																				524,685
Cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash and cash equivalents)																				108,949
Current tax asset																				28,312
Others																				6,966

Total assets																				1,918,861

Liabilities
Segment liabilities*		110,783		40,424		11,268		102,290		14,858		14,508		46,542		302		—		340,975
Short-term borrowings																				413,126
Current tax liabilities																				2,028
Long-term borrowings																				332,654
Deferred tax liabilities																				24,015
Others																				92,275

Total liabilities																				1,205,073

Additions to property, plant and equipments		1,626		21,788		4,850		18,956		5,223		650		8,886		2		—		61,981
Additions to Leasehold Land		—		—		—		290		—		—		—		—		—		290
Additions to exploration and evaluation assets		—		—		—		—		—		—		1,234		—		—		1,234
Additions to other intangibles assets		54		178		—		204		32		56		29		28		—		581

During the year ended March 31, 2017, three units of 600 MW each at Jharsuguda and 1 unit of 270 MW at Balco, Korba have been converted from commercial power plant to captive power plant, pursuant to an order of Orissa Electricity Regulatory Authority and increased inhouse demand respectively. Accordingly, the revenue, results, segment assets and segment liabilities of these plants have been disclosed as part of Aluminium segment.

#	Includes sale to external customers and export incentives.

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c. For the year ended March 31, 2018


	Copper		Zinc India		Zinc International		Aluminium		Power		Iron Ore		Oil and Gas		Others		Elimination		Total		Total
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)

Revenue
Sales^#		247,008		217,101		34,458		230,959		55,012		31,154		95,359		2,669		—		913,720		14,033
Inter-segment sales		—		—		—		253		1,506		263		—		124		(2,146)		—		—
Segment revenue		247,008		217,101		34,458		231,212		56,518		31,417		95,359		2,793		(2,146)		913,720		14,033
Cost of Sales and expenses		(234,089)		(94,469)		(20,313)		(202,054)		(39,830)		(27,720)		(41,041)		(2,240)		2,146		(659,610)		(10,130)
Segment profit		12,919		122,632		14,145		29,158		16,688		3,697		54,318		553		—		254,110		3,903
Depreciation and amortisation		(1,607)		(15,011)		(1,824)		(16,818)		(4,773)		(4,423)		(29,731)		(692)		—		(74,879)		(1,150)
Other items*		—		2,395		—		(2,774)		—		—		—		—		—		(379)		(6)
Impairment (Refer Note 8)		—		—		—		—		—		(48,599)		93,278		—		—		44,679		686

Operating profit / (loss)		11,312		110,016		12,321		9,566		11,915		(49,325)		117,865		(139)		—		223,531		3,433
Finance and other costs																				(141,182)		(2,168)
Investment and other income																				30,986		476

Profit before tax																				113,335		1,741

Assets and liabilities
Assets
Segment assets		96,422		167,509		56,074		480,224		191,402		40,201		241,045		27,548		—		1,300,425		19,972
Financial assets investments																				1,595		24
Deferred tax asset																				58,635		901
Short-term investments																				315,996		4,854
Cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash and cash equivalents)																				44,675		686
Current tax asset																				34,040		523
Others																				9,063		139

Total assets																				1,764,429		27,099

Liabilities
Segment liabilities		89,352		41,475		11,079		134,059		17,447		16,287		55,535		1,979		—		367,213		5,640
Short-term borrowings																				313,700		4,818
Current tax liabilities																				3,123		48
Long-term borrowings																				267,888		4,114
Deferred tax liabilities																				43,340		666
Others																				16,235		249

Total liabilities																				1,011,499		15,535

Additions to property, plant and equipments		5,417		30,520		16,410		14,244		714		1,393		9,134		15,919				93,751		1,440
Additions to Leasehold Land		—		—		—		284		1		—		—		5		—		290		4
Additions to exploration and evaluation assets		—		—		—		—		—		—		1,131		—		—		1,131		17
Additions to other intangibles assets		—		67		2		1		—		—		214		2,055		—		2,339		36

#	Includes sale to external customers and export incentives.

*	Other item represents reversal of provision for contribution to District Mineral Foundation (DMF), gratuity charge due to change in limits and loss on unusable assets under construction.

F-108

Geographical Segment Analysis

The Group’s operations are located in India, Namibia, South Africa, UAE, Liberia, Ireland, Australia, South Korea and Taiwan. The following table provides an analysis of the Group’s sales by geographical market irrespective of the origin of the goods:

Year ended March 31,


	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
India		443,287		441,954		528,768		8,121
China		34,556		61,179		84,138		1,292
UAE		32,759		48,070		35,028		538
Others		128,891		166,004		265,786		4,082

	639,493		717,207		913,720		14,033

The following is an analysis of the carrying amount of non-current assets, excluding deferred tax assets, derivative financial assets, financial asset investments and other non-current financial assets analysed by the geographical area in which the assets are located: —


	As at March 31
	2017		2018		2018
	Carrying amount		Carrying amount		Carrying Amount
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
India		996,738		1,041,095		15,990
South Africa		20,898		37,079		569
Namibia		7,310		11,105		171
Taiwan		—		12,253		188
Others		1,897		6,130		94

	1,029,843		1,107,662		17,012

No single customer has accounted for more than 10% of the Group’s revenue for the year ended March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.

F-109

31. Related party transactions –

The Group’s subsidiaries as at March 31, 2018 are as follows:

Subsidiaries

Principal activities

Immediate holding company

Country of
Incorporation

The Company’s
/ Immediate
percentage
holding (in %
as at March 31,
2017)

The Company’s
/ Immediate
percentage
holding (in %
as at March 31,
2018)

Copper Mines of Tasmania Pty Limited (“CMT”)

Copper mining

Monte Cello B.V.

Australia

100

Thalanga Copper Mines Pty Limited (“TCM”)

Copper mining

Monte Cello B.V.

Australia

100

Monte Cello B.V. (“MCBV”)

Investment company

Vedanta Limited

Netherland

100

Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (“BALCO”)

Aluminium mining and smelting

Vedanta Limited

India

Talwandi Sabo Power Limited (“TSPL”)

Power generation

Vedanta Limited

India

100

Sterlite (USA) Inc.

Investment company

Vedanta Limited

USA

100

Hindustan Zinc Limited (“HZL”)

Zinc mining and smelting

Vedanta Limited

India

64.92

Fujairah Gold FZC¹

Gold and silver processing

Malco Energy Limited

UAE

100

THL Zinc Ventures Ltd

Investment company

Vedanta Limited

Mauritius

100

THL Zinc Ltd

Investment company

THL Zinc Ventures Ltd

Mauritius

100

THL Zinc Holding B.V.

Investment company

Vedanta Limited

Netherland

100

THL Zinc Namibia Holdings (Proprietary) Limited (“VNHL”)

Investment company

THL Zinc Ltd

Namibia

100

Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited

Investment company

THL Zinc Namibia Holdings (Proprietary) Limited

Namibia

100

Skorpion Mining Company (Proprietary) Limited

Exploration, development, production and sale of zinc ore

Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited

Namibia

100

Namzinc (Proprietary) Limited

Zinc refinery

Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited

Namibia

100

Amica Guesthouse (Proprietary) Limited

Accommodation and catering services

Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited

Namibia

100

Rosh Pinah Health Care (Proprietary) Limited

Leasing out of medical equipment and building and conducting services related thereto

Skorpion Zinc (Proprietary) Limited

Namibia

Black Mountain Mining (Proprietary) Limited (“BMM”)

Exploration, development, production and sale of zinc, lead, copper and associated mineral concentrates

THL Zinc Ltd

South Africa

Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited

Investment company

THL Zinc Holing B.V.

Ireland

100

Vedanta Lisheen Mining Limited

Zinc and lead mining

Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited

Ireland

100

Killoran Lisheen Mining Limited

Zinc and lead mining

Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited

Ireland

100

Lisheen Milling Limited

Production of zinc and lead concentrates

Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited

Ireland

100

Killoran Lisheen Finance Limited

Investment company

Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited

Ireland

100

Pecvest 17 Proprietary Limited ****

Investment company

THL Zinc Ltd

South Africa

—

Sterlite Ports Limited

Infrastructure

Vedanta Limited

India

100

Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited

Infrastructure

Vedanta Limited

India

100

Paradip Multi Cargo Berth Private Limited

Infrastructure

Vedanta Limited

India

100

Maritime Ventures Private Limited

Infrastructure

Sterlite Ports Limited

India

100

Sterlite Infraventures Limited*****

Infrastructure

Vedanta Limited

India

—

F-110

Subsidiaries

Principal activities

Immediate holding company

Country of
Incorporation

The Company’s
/ Immediate
percentage
holding (in %
as at March 31,
2017)

The Company’s
/ Immediate
percentage
holding (in %
as at March 31,
2018)

Lakomasko B.V.

Investment company

THL Zinc Holding B.V.

Netherland

100

Vedanta Exploration Ireland Limited

Exploration company

Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Ltd

Ireland

100

Malco Energy Limited (“MEL”)

Power generation

Vedanta Limited

India

100

Sesa Resources Limited (“SRL”)

Iron ore mining

Vedanta Limited

India

100

Sesa Mining Corporation Limited

Iron ore mining

Sesa Resources Limited

India

100

Goa Sea Ports Private Limited ²

Infrastructure

Sterlite Ports Limited

India

100

Western Cluster Limited

Iron ore mining

Bloom Fountain Limited

Liberia

100

Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Limited *

Investment Company

Twin Star Energy Holdings Limited

Mauritius

100

Twin Star Energy Holdings Limited (“TEHL”) *

Investment Company

Bloom Fountain Limited

Mauritius

100

Bloom Fountain Limited

Operating (Iron ore) and Investment Company

Vedanta Limited

Mauritius

100

Cairn Energy Australia Pty Limited****

Investment company

Cairn India Holdings Limited

Australia

—

Cairn Energy Holdings Limited****

Investment company

Cairn India Holdings Limited

United Kingdom (UK)

—

Cairn India Holdings Limited ³

Investment company

Vedanta Limited

Jersey

100

Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited

Oil and gas exploration, development and production

Cairn India Holdings Limited

Scotland**

100

Cairn Exploration (No. 2) Limited

Oil and gas exploration, development and production

Cairn India Holdings Limited

Scotland

100

Cairn Exploration (No. 7) Limited****

Oil and gas exploration, development and production

Cairn India Holdings Limited

United Kingdom (UK)

—

Cairn Energy Gujarat Block 1 Limited

Oil and gas exploration, development and production

Cairn India Holdings Limited

Scotland

100

Cairn Energy Discovery Limited

Oil and gas exploration, development and production

Cairn India Holdings Limited

Scotland

100

Cairn Energy India Pty Limited

Oil and gas exploration, development and production

Cairn India Holdings Limited

Australia

100

CIG Mauritius Holdings Private Limited

Investment Company

Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited

Mauritius

100

CIG Mauritius Private Limited

Investment Company

CIG Mauritius Holdings Private Limited

Mauritius

100

Cairn Lanka (Pvt) Limited

Oil and gas exploration, development and production

CIG Mauritius Private Limited

Sri Lanka

100

Cairn South Africa (Pty) Limited

Oil and gas exploration, development and production

Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Limited

South Africa

100

Sesa Sterlite Mauritius Holdings Limited *

Investment Company

Bloom Fountain Limited

Mauritius

100

AvanStrate Inc.***

Manufacturer of LCD glass substrate

Cairn India Holdings Limited

Japan

—

51.63

AvanStrate Korea***

Manufacturer of LCD glass substrate

AvanStrate Inc.

South Korea

—

51.63

AvanStrate Taiwan***

Manufacturer of LCD glass substrate

AvanStrate Inc.

Taiwan

—

51.63

*	Under liquidation

**	Principal place of business is in India

***	Purchased during the current year (Refer note 1)

****	Dissolved during the previous year

*****

Sold during the previous year

F-111

1	Pursuant to transfer of holding in Fujairah Gold from TCM and CMT to MEL in July 2016

2	Goa Sea Port Private Limited incorporated on 5th July, 2016 as a 100% subsidiary of Sterlite Ports Limited (SPL)

3	Cairn India Limited merged with Vedanta Limited. Post merger Cairn India Holdings Limited became direct subsidiary of Vedanta Limited (Refer note 1).

4	The Group also has interest in certain trust which are neither significant nor material to the Group.

5	Subsequent to the balance sheet date, Vedanta Star Limited, a 100% subsidiary of Vedanta Limited was incorporated on April 23, 2018.

The Company owns directly or indirectly through subsidiaries, more than half of the voting power of all of its subsidiaries as mentioned in the list above, and the Group is able to govern its subsidiaries’ financial and operating policies so as to benefit from their activities.

Ultimate controlling party

As at March 31, 2018, the Group is majorly owned by Twin Star Holdings Limited, Finsider International Company Limited, Westglobe Limited and Welter Trading Limited which are in turn wholly-owned subsidiaries of Vedanta Resources Plc (Intermediate Holding Company). The ultimate controlling party of the Group is Volcan Investments Limited (“Volcan”), which is controlled by the Chairman Emeritus, Mr. Anil Agarwal and persons related to him. Volcan Investment Limited, Twin Star Holdings Limited, Finsider International Company Limited, Westglobe Limited and Welter Trading Limited do not produce Group financial statements.

List of related parties and relationships –

The Group enters into transactions in the normal course of business with its related parties, including its parent Vedanta, and the companies over which it has significant influence. A summary of significant related party transactions for the year ended March 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 are noted below.

A)	Entities Controlling the Company (Holding Companies)

•

Volcan Investments Limited (‘Volcan’)

Intermediate Holding Companies

•

Vedanta Resources Plc. (‘Vedanta’)

•

Vedanta Resources Holdings Limited (‘VRHL’)

•

Twin Star Holdings Limited (‘TSHL’)

•

Finsider International Company Limited (‘Finsider’)

•

Westglobe Limited (‘Westglobe’)

•

Welter Trading Limited (‘Welter’)

•

Richter Holdings Limited (‘Richter’)

•

Vedanta Resources Finance Limited

•

Vedanta Resources Cyprus Limited

B)	Fellow subsidiaries (with whom transactions have taken place)

•

Konkola Copper Mines (‘KCM’)

•

Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited (‘VRJ2’)

•

Vedanta Resources Jersey Limited (‘VRJL’)

•

Vedanta Jersey Investments Limited (‘VJIL’)

•

Sterlite Technologies Limited (‘STL’)

•

Sterlite Power Transmission Limited (‘SPTL’)

•

Sterlite Iron and Steel Company Limited (‘SISCOL’)

F-112

•

Sterlite Power Grid Ventures Limited (‘SPGVL’)

C)	Post Retirement Benefit Plan

•

Balco Employees Provident Fund Trust

•

Hindustan Zinc Ltd Employees Contributory Provident Fund Trust

•

Sesa Group Employees Provident Fund Trust

•

Sesa Mining Corporation Limited Employees Provident Fund Trust

•

Sesa Resources Limited Employees Provident Fund Trust

•

HZL Employee group Gratuity Trust

•

Sesa Group Employees Gratuity Fund and Sesa Group Executives Gratuity Fund

•

Sesa Resources Limited Employees Gratuity Fund

•

Sesa Mining Corporation Limited Employees Gratuity Fund

•

HZL Superannuation Trust

•

Sesa Group Executives Superannuation scheme Fund

•

Sesa Resources Limited and Sesa Mining Corporation Limited Employees Superannuation Fund

D)	Other Related Parties (with whom transactions have taken place)

•

Vedanta Medical Research Foundation (‘VMRF’)

•

Vedanta Foundation

•

India Grid trust

•

Cairn Foundation

•

Sesa Community Development Foundation

The below details provide the total amount of transactions that have been entered into with related parties for the relevant financial year. The significant transactions relate to the normal sale and purchase of goods and loans and investments.

F-113

The significant transactions with related parties for the year ended March 31, 2016, March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 are set out below:


	For the year ended March 31,
	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Sales
STL		9,188		8,577		693		11
SPTL		—		177		11,288		173
KCM		—		—		24		0

Total		9,188		8,754		12,005		184

Purchases of goods/services
KCM		382		2,977		6,575		101
STL		74		174		9		0
SPTL		—		28		128		2

Total		456		3,179		6,712		103


Interest income / (Finance costs)
VRJ2		(11,563)		(2,179)		—		—
VRJL		—		(36)		—		—
Vedanta		438		394		279		4
KCM		—		26		45		1
TSHL		5		14		15		0
SISCOL		5		2		4		0
STL		14		90		—		—
SPTL		—		—		7		0

Total		(11,101)		(1,689)		350		5


Dividend paid
TSHL		8,069		26,829		29,243		449
Finsider		2,349		7,809		8,512		131
Westglobe		259		862		940		14
Welter		224		744		811		12

Total		10,901		36,244		39,506		606


Management and brand fees expenses
Vedanta		330		589		3,447		53

Total		330		589		3,447		53


Dividend Income
STL		3		7		4		0
India Grid Trust		—		—		81		1

Total		3		7		85		1


Outsourcing Service Income
Vedanta		28		32		33		1

Total		28		32		33		1


Long Term Incentive Plan Expenses
Vedanta		876		628		531		8
KCM		—		—		(1)		(0)

Total		876		628		530		8

Other Expenses
SPGVL		—		—		0		0

Total		—		—		0		0


Loans given/(repaid) during the year
TSHL		655		—		—		—
SISCOL		1		0		0		0
SISCOL		(25)		—		—		—

Total		631		0		0		0

F-114

During the previous year ended March 31, 2017, loan of ₹ 10 million was given to Roshskor Township (Proprietary) Limited.

In addition to above, there was a reimbursement for expenses to Vedanta of ₹ 152 million and ₹ 170 million ($ 3 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. Further, there was a recovery made for expenses from KCM of ₹ 134 million and ₹ 48 million ($ 1 million), from SISCOL of ₹ 0 million and ₹ Nil and from Volcan of ₹ 14 million and ₹ 17 million ($ 0 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

F-115


	For the year ended March 31,
	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Loan taken/(repaid) during the year
VRJ2		(51,182)		(126,187)		—		—
VRJ2		3,856		939		—		—
VRJL		—		1,907		—		—
VRJL		—		(1,907)		—		—

Total		(47,326)		(125,248)		—		—


Guarantee given/(taken)
Vedanta		(58,915)		(142,653)		—		—
VMRF		—		—		344		5

Total		(58,915)		(142,653)		344		5


Corporate social responsibility expenditure/ donation
Sesa Community Development Foundation		23		19		53		1
Vedanta Foundation*		31		683		1		0
VMRF		176		348		833		13

Total		230		1,050		887		14

Corporate social responsibility expenditure was also incurred through Cairn Foundation of ₹ 120 million and ₹ 161 million ($2 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

*	includes donation in kind, having fair market value of ₹ 112 million ($ 1.7 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017.

The significant receivables from and payables to related parties as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 are set out below:


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Receivable from:
STL		263		40		1
SPTL		1		50		1
KCM		1,475		3,237		50
Vedanta		68		695		11
SISCOL		122		127		2
Goa Maritime Private Limited		10		10		0
Vedanta Foundation		—		50		1
Volcan		23		41		1
TSHL		18		33		1
SPGVL		—		0		0

Total		1,980		4,283		68


Loans to:
SISCOL		44		45		1
TSHL		648		650		10
RoshSkor Township (Proprietary) Limited		70		75		1

Total		762		770		12


Payable to:
Vedanta		223		212		3
KCM		79		383		6
STL		147		—		—

F-116


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Hindustan Zinc Ltd Employees Contributory provident Fund Trust		29		89		1
Sesa Resources Limited Employees Provident Fund		1		1		0
Sesa Mining Corporation Limited Employees Provident Fund		2		3		0
Sesa Group Employees Provident Fund		16		17		0
Balco Employees Provident Fund Trust		47		50		1
HZL Superannuation Trust		2		2		0
Sesa Group Executives Superannuation Scheme		4		2		0
Sesa Resources Limited and Sesa Mining Corporation Limited Employees Superannuation Fund		2		0		0
TSHL		24,415		—		—
Finsider		7,106		—		—
Westglobe		785		—		—
Welter		677		—		—
SPTL		—		31		0

Total		33,535		790		11

An amount of ₹ 180 million and ₹ 112 million ($ 2 million) is payable to Cairn Foundation as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively.


	As at March 31,
	2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Guarantees outstanding given / (taken)
Vedanta#		(350,149)		—		—
Volcan*		1,150		1,150		18
VMRF		—		344		5

Total		(348,999)		1,494		23


Investment in Equity Shares/ units – Quoted
India Grid Trust		—		1,223		19
STL		600		1,488		23

Total		600		2,711		42


Investment in Equity Shares – Unquoted
SPTL		95		107		2

Total		95		107		2

Investment in Vedanta Bonds		5,246		4,117		63

Total		5,246		4,117		63

*	Bank guarantee given by the Company on behalf of Volcan in favour of Income tax department, India as collateral in respect of certain tax disputes of Volcan.

#	During the current year, guarantee worth ₹ 282,058 million has been withdrawn by Vedanta and the guarantees worth ₹ 68,091 million is extinguished as the underlying external loan has been repaid.

Cairn PSC guarantee to Government

Vedanta Resources PLC as a parent company has provided a financial and performance guarantee to Government of India for erstwhile Cairn India Group’s obligation under the Production Sharing Contract (‘PSC’). The guarantee provides for making available financial resources equivalent to Cairn India’s share for its obligation under PSC, personnel and technical services in accordance with industry practices and any other resources in case Cairn India is unable to fulfill its obligations under PSC.

F-117

Cairn Investment in Vedanta Bonds

Cairn India Holdings Limited had invested ₹ 4,854 million and ₹ 3,840 million ($ 59 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively in bonds issued by Vedanta, which have maturities ranging from January 2019 to May 2023 at coupon ranging from 6% to 8.25% p.a. The carrying values of these bonds including interest accrued are Rs 5,246 million and Rs 4,117 million ($63 million) as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, respectively.

Loans to holding companies

During the year ended March 31, 2016, Lisheen Milling Limited entered into a loan agreement with Twin Star Holding Limited for ₹ 667 million at an interest rate of 2.1%. The loan is unsecured and the outstanding balance under the facility at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 is ₹ 648 million and Rs 650 million ($10 million) respectively. The loan was due in March 2018. The loan has been renewed for a further period of 12 months and is now due in March 2019.

Loans to fellow subsidiaries

During the year ended March 31, 2018 Group had renewed loan provided to SISCOL to finance project in earlier years. The loan balance as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 was ₹ 44 million and ₹ 45 million ($1 million) respectively. The loan is unsecured in nature and carries an interest rate of 8.50% per annum. The loan was due for repayment in March 2018. The loan has been renewed for a further period of 12 months and is now due in March 2019.

Sale of Subsidiary

During the year ended March 31, 2017, the Group sold one of its subsidiary - Sterlite Infraventures Limited (SIVL) to a fellow subsidiary - Sterlite Power Transmission Limited for a net consideration of ₹ 2 million.

Purchase of Subsidiary

During the year ended March 31, 2017, the Group purchased 100% of the shareholding in Sesa Sterlite Mauritius Holdings Limited from VRHL at $1.

Terms and conditions of transactions with related parties

All transactions with related parties are made in ordinary course of business. For the year ended March 31 2018, the Group has not recorded any impairment of receivables relating to amounts owed by related parties. This assessment is undertaken each financial year through examining the financial position of the related party and the market in which the related party operates.

Remuneration of key management personnel

The remuneration of the key management personnel of the Group are set out below in aggregate for each of the categories specified in IAS 24 Related party disclosures.


	Year ended March 31,
	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Short term employee benefits		341		348		326		5
Post-employment benefits*		26		26		24		0
Share based payments		66		77		61		1

Total		433		451		411		6

*	Does not include the provision made for gratuity and leave benefits, as they are determined on an actuarial basis for all the employees together.

F-118

Commission/ Sitting fees paid to Independent directors is ₹ 33 million and ₹ 35 million ($ 1 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively. Commission/ Sitting fees paid to other Key Management Personnel is ₹ 3 million and ₹ 2 million ($ 0 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Dividend paid to Key Management Personnel is ₹ 0 million and ₹ 0 million ($ 0 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Relatives of Key Management Personnel -


	Year ended March 31,
	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Salary of relatives of Key management personnel		71		79		71		1

Total		71		79		71		1

Year ended March 31,

2016

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

Short term interest bearing salary advance given / (repaid) during the year

(91)

—

Total

(91)

—

Commission paid to relatives of Key Management Personnel is ₹ 2 million and ₹ 2 million ($ 0 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Dividend paid to relatives of Key Management Personnel is ₹ 4 million and ₹ 4 million ($ 0 million) for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

Details of transactions during the year with provident fund trusts:


	Year ended March 31
	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
PF Trust
Balco Employees Provident Fund Trust		113		159		129		2
Hindustan Zinc Ltd Employees Contributory
Provident Fund Trust		327		309		303		5
Sesa Resources Limited Employees Provident Fund Trust		22		3		5		0
Sesa Mining Corporation Limited Employees Provident Fund Trust		23		6		10		0
Sesa Group Employees Provident Fund Trust		157		59		47		1

Total		642		536		494		8

F-119

In addition to above, ₹ 253 million and ₹ 161 million ($ 2 million) has been contributed to HZL Employee Group Gratuity Trust and ₹ 106 million and ₹ 53 million ($ 1 million) has been contributed to other retirement benefit trusts for the year ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 respectively.

32. Other notes

(a) Components of other comprehensive income –cash flow hedges

For the year ended March 31,

2016

2017

2018

(₹ in
million)

(US dollars
in million)

Net gain/(loss) arising during the year

(55)

522

(2,409)

(37)

Reclassification adjustments for net (gain)/loss included in the consolidated statements of profit or loss

218

(538)

2,307

Net gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges recognised in other comprehensive income, net of tax

163

(16)

(102)

(2)

(b) Exchange gain/ (loss) recognised in the consolidated statements of profit or loss:


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Cost of sales		277		295		2,892		44
Administration cost		(3,667)		736		182		3
Investment and other income		461		(184)		736		11
Finance and other costs		(3,669)		(2,187)		(565)		(9)

Total		(6,598)		(1,340)		3,245		49

c) The Group presents the consolidated statements of profit or loss by disclosing expenses by function. The consolidated statements of profit or loss disclosing expenses by nature is presented below:

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PROFIT OR LOSS


For the year ended March 31,	Notes		2016		2017		2018		2018
			(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Revenue		4		639,493		717,207		913,720		14,033
Other operating income				4,785		5,186		5,373		83
Investment and other income		5		43,998		45,428		30,986		476

Total Income				688,276		767,821		950,079		14,592
(Decrease)/increase in inventories of finished goods and work-in-progress				(3,943)		11,907		(5,392)		(83)
Raw materials and other consumables used*				(426,665)		(462,748)		(599,029)		(9,200)
Employee costs				(30,542)		(26,241)		(27,537)		(423)
Other costs				(29,058)		(29,928)		(33,404)		(513)
Depreciation and amortisation				(83,343)		(61,477)		(74,879)		(1,150)
Impairment				(339,549)		(1,162)		44,679		686
Finance and other costs		6		(59,584)		(61,600)		(141,182)		(2,168)

Profit / (loss) before tax				(284,408)		136,572		113,335		1,741

Income tax (expense) / credit		7		103,060		(38,027)		(66,426)		(1,020)

Profit / (loss) for the year				(181,348)		98,545		46,909		721

*	includes power and fuel charges, repairs, royalty, cess, mining and other operating expenses.

F-120

(d). Employee costs


For the year ended March 31,	2016		2017		2018		2018
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(US dollars in million)
Salaries, wages and bonus		27,543		24,420		25,162		386
Defined contribution pension scheme costs		1,551		872		603		9
Defined benefit pension scheme costs		273		813		1,772		28
Voluntary retirement expenses		1,175		136		—		—

		30,542		26,241		27,537		423

33. Subsequent Events –

a) Vedanta Limited through its wholly owned subsidiary, Vedanta Star Limited (VSL), has acquired management control over Electrosteel Steels Limited (ESL) on June 4, 2018. Further, pursuant to the allotment of shares to VSL on June 15, 2018, the Group holds 90% of the paid up share capital of ESL through VSL. The acquisition will complement the Company’s existing Iron Ore business as the vertical integration of steel manufacturing capabilities.

ESL owns and operates a Greenfield integrated steel manufacturing facility near Bokaro, Jharkhand, India, which has a current capacity of 1.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). ESL was admitted under Corporate insolvency resolution process in terms of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 of India and the insolvency proceedings were commenced against ESL pursuant to the order dated July 21, 2017 passed by the Hon’ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). The NCLT vide its order dated April 17, 2018 approved the resolution plan submitted by the Company for acquiring the controlling stake of ESL. National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) in a challenge to the NCLT order dated April 17, 2018 vide its order dated May 30, 2018 allowed Vedanta Limited to acquire ESL by depositing the upfront payment to the Committee of Creditors.

Total cash consideration of ₹ 53,200 million ($ 817 million) has been paid for the acquisition and acquisition related costs of ₹ 165 million ($ 3 million) has been incurred for the transaction. Given the transaction was completed in June, 2018, the Company has not yet completed the purchase price allocation for ESL and hence, other disclosures as required under IFRS 3 have not been provided.

b) Refer note 3 W (xii) with respect to copper operations.

34. The Group has made the following changes to some of its disclosures, as compared to those reported in prior year’s consolidated financial statements, none of which it believes are material:

In Note 24, Equity as at March 31, 2017 has been recasted to include OCI reserves to conform to current year disclosure.

In Note 23 (b) – Foreign exchange risk, carrying amounts of the Group’s financial assets and financial liabilities in different currencies as at March 31, 2017 has been disclosed instead of exposure to foreign currencies to conform to the current year presentation.

Additionally, certain balances for the year ended March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2017 have been regrouped/ reclassified by the Group to conform with current period’s presentation.

F-121

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

In accordance with Codification Topic 932 - Extractive Activities - Oil and gas, this section provides supplemental information on oil and gas exploration and producing activities of the Company for the years ended March 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. The information included in items (i) through (iii) provides historical cost information pertaining to costs incurred in exploration, property acquisition and development, capitalized costs and results of operations. The information included in items (iv) and (v) present information on our estimated net proved reserve quantities, standardized measure of estimated discounted future net cash flows related to proved reserves, and changes in estimated discounted future net cash flows. Activities not directly associated with oil and gas producing activities are excluded from all aspects of this supplemental information.

Method of accounting for costs incurred in oil and gas producing activities and manner of disposing of capitalized costs relating to those activities

We follow a successful efforts based accounting policy for oil and gas assets.

Costs incurred prior to obtaining the legal rights to explore an area are expensed immediately to the Income Statement.

Expenditure incurred on the acquisition of a licence interest is initially capitalised on a licence by licence basis. Costs are held, un-depleted, within intangible exploration/appraisal assets until such time as the exploration phase on the licence area is complete or commercial reserves have been discovered.

Exploration expenditure incurred in the process of determining oil and gas exploration targets is capitalised initially within intangible exploration/appraisal assets and subsequently allocated to drilling activities. Exploration/appraisal drilling costs are initially capitalised on a well–by-well basis until the success or otherwise of the well has been established. The success or failure of each exploration/appraisal effort is judged on a well-by-well basis. Drilling costs are written off on completion of a well unless the results indicate that hydrocarbon reserves exist and there is a reasonable prospect that these reserves are commercial.

Following appraisal of successful exploration wells, if commercial reserves are established and technical feasibility for extraction demonstrated, then the related capitalised intangible exploration/appraisal costs are transferred into a single field cost center within property, plant and equipment - development/producing assets after testing for impairment. Where results of exploration drilling indicate the presence of hydrocarbons which are ultimately not considered commercially viable, all related costs are written off to the Income Statement.

All costs incurred after the technical feasibility and commercial viability of producing hydrocarbons has been demonstrated are capitalised within property, plant and equipment - development/producing assets on a field-by-field basis. Subsequent expenditure is capitalised only where it either enhances the economic benefits of the development/producing asset or replaces part of the existing development/producing asset. Any remaining costs associated with the part replaced are expensed.

Net proceeds from any disposal of an intangible exploration/appraisal asset are initially credited against the previously capitalised costs. Any surplus proceeds are credited to the Income Statement. Net proceeds from any disposal of development/producing assets are credited against the previously capitalised cost. A gain or loss on disposal of a development/producing asset is recognised in the Income Statement to the extent that the net proceeds exceed or are less than the appropriate portion of the net capitalised costs of the asset.

F-122

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(i)

Capitalized costs relating to oil and gas producing activities

The following table summarizes capitalized costs for oil and gas exploration and production activities with the related accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization, and asset retirement obligation assets:


	India		Sri Lanka		South Africa
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)
March 31, 2018
Unproved oil and gas properties		17,121		51,261		2,372
Proved oil and gas properties		1,276,878		—		—
Support equipment		4,865		—		—

Gross Capitalized costs		1,298,864		51,261		2,372
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization, and valuation allowances (including impairment loss)		(1,075,592)		(51,261)		(2,372)

Net Capitalized costs		223,272		—		—

Net Capitalized costs (US dollars in million)		3,429		—		—


March 31, 2017
Unproved oil and gas properties		16,388		51,100		2,351
Proved oil and gas properties		1,264,044		—		—
Support equipment		4,656		—		—

Gross Capitalized costs		1,285,088		51,100		2,351
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization, and valuation allowances (including impairment loss)		(1,136,079)		(51,100)		(2,351)

Net Capitalized costs		149,009		—		—


March 31, 2016
Unproved oil and gas properties		16,352		52,277		2,405
Proved oil and gas properties		1,284,002		—		—
Support equipment		4,906		—		—

Gross Capitalized costs		1,305,260		52,277		2,405
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization, and valuation allowances (including impairment loss)		(1,135,740)		(52,277)		(2,405)

Net Capitalized costs		169,520		—		—

F-123

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(ii)

Costs incurred in oil and gas property acquisition, exploration and development activities

Costs incurred are summarized below and include both amounts expensed and capitalized:


	India		Sri Lanka		South Africa
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)
March 31, 2018
Acquisition of properties
Proved		—		—		—
Unproved		—		—		—
Exploration costs		(1,506)		9		10
Development costs		10,923		—		—

Total		9,417		9		10

Total (US dollars in million)		145		0		0


March 31, 2017
Acquisition of properties
Proved		—		—		—
Unproved		—		—		—
Exploration costs		(84)		70		45
Development costs		10,104		—		—

Total		10,020		70		45


March 31, 2016
Acquisition of properties
Proved		—		—		—
Unproved		—		—		—
Exploration costs		4,689		97		107
Development costs		8,934		—		—

Total		13,623		97		107

* Figures in brackets ( ) represents reversal / transfers between exploration and development costs.

F-124

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(iii)

Results of operations for oil and gas producing activities

The Company’s results of operations from oil and gas producing activities for the years ended March 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 are shown in the following table.

Production costs are lifting costs incurred to operate and maintain productive wells and related equipment and facilities, including operating employees’ compensation, materials, supplies, fuel consumed in operations and operating costs related to natural gas processing plants.

Exploration expenses include the costs of geological and geophysical activities and non-productive exploratory wells. Depreciation and amortization expenses relate to assets employed in exploration and development activities. In accordance with Codification Topic 932 – Extractive Activities – Oil and gas, income taxes are based on statutory tax rates, reflecting allowable deductions. Till March 31, 2016, the Company had an effective tax rate lower than the statutory rate, benefiting from tax holiday in Rajasthan block under section 80-IB (9) of the Income Tax Act, 1961. Interest income and expense are excluded from the results reported in this table.


	India		Sri Lanka		South Africa
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)
March 31, 2018
Revenues
Sales		95,359		—		—
Transfers		—		—		—
Operating Income		—		—		—

Total		95,359		—		—

Production costs		(40,583)		—		—
Exploration (expenses)/ reversal		8		(9)		(0)
Depreciation, depletion and amortization and valuation provisions (including impairment loss/reversal)		63,584		—		—

Results before income tax expenses		118,368		(9)		(0)
Income tax expenses		(46,398)		—		—

Results of operations from producing activities (excluding corporate overhead and interest costs)		71,970		(9)		(0)

Results of operations from producing activities (excluding corporate overhead and interest costs) (US dollars in million)		1,105		(0)		(0)


March 31, 2017
Revenues
Sales		82,041		—		—
Transfers		—		—		—
Operating Income		70		—		—

Total		82,111		—		—

Production costs		(38,613)		—		—
Exploration expenses		(292)		(70)		(45)
Depreciation, depletion and amortization and valuation provisions (including impairment loss)		(26,687)		—		—

Results before income tax expenses		16,519		(70)		(45)
Income tax expenses		(5,028)		—		—

Results of operations from producing activities (excluding corporate overhead and interest costs)		11,491		(70)		(45)

F-125

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(iii)

Results of operations for oil and gas producing activities (continued)


	India		Sri Lanka		South Africa
	(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)		(₹ in million)
March 31, 2016
Revenues
Sales		86,559		—		—
Transfers		—		—		—
Operating Income		176		—		—

Total		86,735		—		—

Production costs		(47,272)		—		—
Exploration expenses		(174)		(97)		(23)
Depreciation, depletion and amortization and valuation provisions		(374,166)		—		(2,374)

Results before income tax expenses		(334,877)		(97)		(2,397)
Income tax expenses		(1,606)		—		—

Results of operations from producing activities (excluding corporate overhead and interest costs)		(336,483)		(97)		(2,397)

F-126

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(iv)

Reserve quantities information

The following tables represent estimates for oil and gas reserves by geographic area as of March 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. Quantities mentioned below represent proved developed and proved undeveloped reserves together with changes in quantities for the fiscal years 2018, 2017, and 2016.

The definitions used for proved, proved developed and proved undeveloped oil and gas reserves are in accordance with United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Rule 4-10 of Regulation S-X. Proved oil and natural gas reserves are those estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids that geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be economically producible in future years from known reservoirs, under existing economic and operating conditions including a 12-month average price prior to the end of the reporting period, unless prices are defined by contract, and cost at the date of estimation.

All the proved reserves presented herein are based on PSCs with the GoI. As such, all net reserves are based on an entitlement calculation which converts our share of cost recovery and profit petroleum under each contract to a volume equivalent of net reserves in accordance with SEC guidance on calculating net reserves subject to these agreements.

A summary of the annual changes in the proved reserves of oil is as follows (in mmbbls):


Proved developed and undeveloped reserves	India		Sri Lanka		South Africa		Total
Reserves at March 31, 2015		90.09		—		—		90.09

Revisions of previous estimates		20.62		—		—		20.62
Extensions and discoveries		—		—		—		—
Improved Recovery		—		—		—		—
Sales of reserves		—		—		—		—
Purchases of reserves		—		—		—		—
Production for the year		(32.61)		—		—		(32.61)

Reserves at March 31, 2016		78.10		—		—		78.10

Revisions of previous estimates		7.53		—		—		7.53
Extensions and discoveries		—		—		—		—
Improved Recovery		—		—		—		—
Sales of reserves		—		—		—		—
Purchases of reserves		—		—		—		—
Production for the year		(28.07)		—		—		(28.07)

Reserves at March 31, 2017		57.56		—		—		57.56

Revisions of previous estimates		15.11		—		—		15.11
Extensions and discoveries		0.23		—		—		0.23
Improved Recovery		2.96		—		—		2.96
Sales of reserves		—		—		—		—
Purchases of reserves		—		—		—		—
Production for the year		(28.50)		—		—		(28.50)

Reserves at March 31, 2018		47.36		—		—		47.36

F-127

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(iv)

Reserve Quantities Information (continued)

A summary of the annual changes in the proved reserves of natural gas is as follows (in bcf):


Proved developed and undeveloped reserves	India		Sri Lanka		South Africa		Total
Reserves at March 31, 2015		4.89		—		—		4.89

Revisions of previous estimates		4.94		—		—		4.94
Extensions and discoveries		—		—		—		—
Improved Recovery		—		—		—		—
Sales of reserves		—		—		—		—
Purchases of reserves		—		—		—		—
Production for the year		(4.32)		—		—		(4.32)

Reserves at March 31, 2016		5.51		—		—		5.51

Revisions of previous estimates		3.16		—		—		3.16
Extensions and discoveries		—		—		—		—
Improved Recovery		—		—		—		—
Sales of reserves		—		—		—		—
Purchases of reserves		—		—		—		—
Production for the year		(2.96)		—		—		(2.96)

Reserves at March 31, 2017		5.71		—		—		5.71

Revisions of previous estimates		10.95		—		—		10.95
Extensions and discoveries		—		—		—		—
Improved Recovery		—		—		—		—
Sales of reserves		—		—		—		—
Purchases of reserves		—		—		—		—
Production for the year		(5.50)		—		—		(5.50)

Reserves at March 31, 2018		11.16		—		—		11.16

Year ending March 31, 2016

Total proved oil and gas reserves at March 31, 2015, were 90.91 mmboe. During the year ending March 31, 2016, total revisions of 21.44 mmboe include 14.53 mmboe associated with technical revisions for improved production performance for the producing fields and 6.91 mmboe of the total revisions was due to changes in commodity prices. Lower commodity prices for the year ending March 31, 2016, resulted in higher net entitlement shares for the PSCs. The majority of the positive technical revisions were the result of improved production performance in the Mangala field associated with the polymer-augmented waterflood and the improved production performance of the Aishwariya and Bhagyam field waterfloods. After adjusting for the interim production of 33.33 mmboe, the total proved reserves at March 31, 2016, were 79.02 mmboe.

Year ending March 31, 2017

Total proved oil and gas reserves at March 31, 2016, were 79.02 mmboe. For the year ending March 31, 2017, total revisions of 8.05 mmboe were comprised of technical revisions of 9.02 mmboe associated with improved production performance and -0.97 mmboe in revisions due to changes in commodity prices. The majority of the technical revisions were associated with the continued improvement in production performance of the Mangala, Aishwariya, and Bhagyam fields. After adjustment of interim production of 28.56 mmboe, the total proved reserves at March 31, 2017, were 58.51 mmboe.

Year ending March 31, 2018

Total proved oil and gas reserves at March 31, 2017 were 58.51 mmboe. For the year ending March 31, 2018, total revisions of 16.94 mmboe were comprised of an increase of 18.62 mmboe based on technical revisions due to improved production performance and the approval of proved undeveloped projects, and a decrease of 1.68 mmboe due to revisions based on commodity prices. By PSC area, these total revisions were 2.70 mmboe for CB/OS-2, 14.01 mmboe for Rajasthan, and 0.23 mmboe for Ravva. In 2018, improved recovery of 2.96 mmboe were added associated with the approved polymer injection project in the Aishwariya field. Extensions and discoveries of 0.23 mmboe were included for the Guda and Kaameshwari West-2 fields which were approved for development. After adjusting for the interim production of 29.42 mmboe, the total proved reserves at March 31, 2018, were 49.22 mmboe.

F-128

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(iv)

Reserve quantities information (Continued)


	2018				2017				2016
	Natural gas		Crude Oil		Natural gas		Crude Oil		Natural gas		Crude Oil
	(bcf)		(mmbbls)		(bcf)		(mmbbls)		(bcf)		(mmbbls)
Net proved developed reserves:
India		9.87		38.59		4.76		57.08		4.47		76.54
Sri Lanka		—		—		—		—		—		—
South Africa		—		—		—		—		—		—

Total net proved developed reserves		9.87		38.59		4.76		57.08		4.47		76.54

Net proved undeveloped reserves:
India		1.29		8.77		0.95		0.48		1.04		1.56
Sri Lanka		—		—		—		—		—		—
South Africa		—		—		—		—		—		—

Total net proved undeveloped reserves		1.29		8.77		0.95		0.48		1.04		1.56

F-129

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(v)

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas quantities and changes therein

The table below shows the standardized measure of future net cash flows relating to proved reserves. The analysis is computed in accordance with Topic 932 – Extractive Activities – Oil and gas, by applying average prices during the 12-month period prior to the ending date of the period covered by the report, determined as an un-weighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month within such period, unless prices are defined by contractual arrangements, excluding escalations based upon future conditions, as defined by the SEC, fiscal year-end costs, fiscal year-end statutory tax rates and a discount factor of 10% to fiscal year-end quantities of net proved reserves. The standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows is a forward-looking statement.

Future price changes are limited to those provided by existing contractual arrangements at the end of each reporting year. Future development and production costs are those estimated future expenditures necessary to develop and produce fiscal year-end estimated proved reserves based on fiscal year-end costs, assuming continuation of fiscal year-end economic conditions. Pre-tax future net cash flow is net of decommissioning and removal costs. Estimated future income taxes are calculated by applying the appropriate year-end statutory tax rates. These rates reflect allowable deductions and tax credits and are applied to estimated future pretax net cash flows, less the tax basis of related assets. Discounted future net cash flows are calculated using a discount rate of 10% per year. Discounting requires a year-by-year estimate of when future expenditures will be incurred and when reserves will be produced. The standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows prescribed under Topic 932 requires assumptions as to the timing and amount of future development and production costs and income from the production of proved reserves. The information does not represent management’s estimate or our expected future cash flows or the value of its proved reserves and therefore should not be relied upon as an indication of our future cash flow or value of its proved reserves.

F-130

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(v)

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas quantities and changes therein (continued)


	India (₹ in million)		Sri Lanka (₹ in million)		South Africa (₹ in million)		Total (₹ in million)		Total (US dollars in million)
At March 31 2018
Future cash inflows		161,541		—		—		161,541		2,481
Future production costs		(83,517)		—		—		(83,517)		(1,283)
Future development costs		(22,648)		—		—		(22,648)		(348)
Future income tax expenses		(3,528)		—		—		(3,528)		(54)

Undiscounted future net cash flows		51,848		—		—		51,848		796
10 percent midyear annual discount for timing of estimated cash flows		(5,533)		—		—		(5,533)		(85)

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows		46,315		—		—		46,315		712


At March 31 2017
Future cash inflows		165,148		—		—		165,148
Future production costs		(93,326)		—		—		(93,326)
Future development costs		(16,485)		—		—		(16,485)
Future income tax expenses		(1,375)		—		—		(1,375)

Undiscounted future net cash flows		53,962		—		—		53,962
10 percent midyear annual discount for timing of estimated cash flows		(6,469)		—		—		(6,469)

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows		47,493		—		—		47,493


At March 31 2016
Future cash inflows		212,729		—		—		212,729
Future production costs		(127,002)		—		—		(127,002)
Future development costs		(22,492)		—		—		(22,492)
Future income tax expenses		(710)		—		—		(710)

Undiscounted future net cash flows		62,525		—		—		62,525
10 percent midyear annual discount for timing of estimated cash flows		(8,075)		—		—		(8,075)

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows		54,450		—		—		54,450

F-131

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(v)

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas quantities and changes therein (Continued)


	India (₹ in million)		Sri Lanka (₹ in million)		South Africa (₹ in million)		Total (₹ in million)		Total (US dollars in million)
Balance at April 1, 2017		47,493		—		—		47,493		729

Sales and transfers of oil and gas, net of production cost		(55,317)		—		—		(55,317)		(850)
Development cost incurred		8,388		—		—		8,388		129
Net change due to purchases and sales of minerals in place		—		—		—		—		—
Net change due to extensions, discoveries and improved recovery less related costs		4,075		—		—		4,075		63
Net change due to revisions in quantity estimates		25,035		—		—		25,035		385
Net change in prices, transfer prices and in production cost		15,257		—		—		15,257		234
Changes in estimated future development costs		(1,785)		—		—		(1,785)		(27)
Accretion of discount		4,887		—		—		4,887		75
Net change in income taxes		(1,718)		—		—		(1,718)		(26)
Timing		—		—		—		—		—

Balance at March 31, 2018		46,315		—		—		46,315		711


	India (₹ in million)		Sri Lanka (₹ in million)		South Africa (₹ in million)		Total (₹ in million)

Balance at April 1, 2016		54,450		—		—		54,450

Sales and transfers of oil and gas, net of production cost		(41,355)		—		—		(41,355)
Development cost incurred		10,341		—		—		10,341
Net change due to purchases and sales of minerals in place		—		—		—		—
Net change due to extensions, discoveries and improved recovery less related costs		—		—		—		—
Net change due to revisions in quantity estimates		9,377		—		—		9,377
Net change in prices, transfer prices and in production cost		7,644		—		—		7,644
Changes in estimated future development costs		2,059		—		—		2,059
Accretion of discount		5,517		—		—		5,517
Net change in income taxes		(540)		—		—		(540)
Timing		—		—		—		—

Balance at March 31, 2017		47,493		—		—		47,493

F-132

Supplementary Information on Oil and Gas Exploration and Production (Unaudited)

(v)

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas quantities and changes therein (Continued)


	India (₹ in million)		Sri Lanka (₹ in million)		South Africa (₹ in million)		Total (₹ in million)

Balance at April 1, 2015		157,369		—		—		157,369

Sales and transfers of oil and gas, net of production cost		(40,465)		—		—		(40,465)
Development cost incurred		8,910		—		—		8,910
Net change due to purchases and sales of minerals in place		—		—		—		—
Net change due to extensions, discoveries and improved recovery less related costs		—		—		—		—
Net change due to revisions in quantity estimates		20,538		—		—		20,538
Net change in prices, transfer prices and in production costs		(135,831)		—		—		(135,831)
Changes in estimated future development costs		19,030		—		—		19,030
Accretion of discount		17,060		—		—		17,060
Net change in income taxes		7,839		—		—		7,839
Timing		—		—		—		—

Balance at March 31, 2016		54,450		—		—		54,450

F-133