1 Company Overview

Vedanta Limited ("the Company") (CIN: L13209MH1965PLC291394) is a diversified natural resource company engaged in exploring, extracting and processing minerals and oil and gas. The Company engages in the exploration, production and sale of oil and gas, aluminium, copper, iron ore and power.

The Company was incorporated on 08 September 1975 under the laws of the Republic of India. The registered office of the Company is situated at 1^st Floor, 'C wing, Unit 103, Corporate Avenue, Atul Projects, Chakala, Andheri (East), Mumbai-400093, Maharashtra. The Company’s shares are listed on National Stock Exchange ("NSE") and Bombay Stock Exchange ("BSE") in India. In June 2007, the Company 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 ("NYSE").

The ADSs of the Company have been delisted from NYSE effective close of trading on NYSE on 08 November 2021. The Company has been deregistered from SEC under the Exchange Act effective 01 March 2023.

The Company is majority owned by Twin Star Holdings Limited ("Twin Star"), Finsider International Company Limited ("Finsider"), Vedanta Holdings Mauritius II Limited ("VHM2L"), Vedanta Holdings Mauritius Limited ("VHML"), Welter Trading Limited ("Welter") and Vedanta Netherlands Investments BV ("VNIBV") which are in turn wholly-owned subsidiaries of Vedanta Resources Limited ("VRL"), a company incorporated in the United Kingdom. VRL, through its subsidiaries, held 61.95%

(31 March 2023: 68.11%) of the Company's equity as at 31 March 2024.

Details of Company’s various businesses are as follows:

•    The Company’s oil and gas business consists of business of exploration and development and production of oil and gas.

•    The Company’s iron ore business consists of iron ore exploration, mining and processing of iron ore, pig iron and metallurgical coke. The Company has iron ore mining operations in the States of Goa and Karnataka. Pursuant to Honourable Supreme Court of India order, mining operations in the state of Goa were suspended. During the previous year, the Government of Goa has initiated auction of mines in which the Company has participated. The Company has been declared as the principal bidder for the Bicholim mine and has received the Letter of Intent (LoI) from the Government of Goa. During the

current year, the Company has received environment clearance from Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change ("MoEFCC") and Consent to Operate ("CTO") from Goa State Pollution Board followed by commencement of operations in March 2024.

•    The Company’s copper business is principally one of custom smelting and includes captive power plants at Tuticorin in Southern India. The Company's copper business in Tamil Nadu, India has received an order from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board ("TNPCB") on 09 April 2018, rejecting 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 23 May 2018 ordered for disconnection of electricity supply and closure of copper smelter plant. Post such order, the state government on 28 May 2018 ordered the permanent closure of the plant. The Company has filed a writ petition before the Madras High Court challenging the various orders passed against the Company in FY 2018 and FY 2013. On 18 August 2020, the Madras High Court delivered the judgement wherein it dismissed all the Writ Petitions filed by the Company. Thereafter, the Company has approached the Supreme Court and challenged the said High Court order by way of a Special Leave Petition ("SLP"). During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Hon'ble Supreme Court, after hearing the Parties to the proceedings has dismissed the SLP filed by the Company vide judgment dated 29 February 2024. (Refer note 3(c)(A)(ii)).

Further, the Company’s copper business includes refinery and rod plant Silvassa consisting of a

133.000    MT of blister/ secondary material processing plant, a 216,000 tpa copper refinery plant and a copper rod mill with an installed capacity of 258,000 tpa. The plant continues to operate as usual, catering to the domestic market.

•    The Company’s aluminium business include a refinery and captive power plant at Lanjigarh, a smelter and captive power plants at Jharsuguda and coal mines at Jamkhani, all situated in the State of Odisha in Eastern India.

•    The Company’s power operations include a thermal coal-based commercial power facility of 600 MW at Jharsuguda in the State of Odisha in Eastern India and a 1,200 MW (two units of 600 MW each) thermal coal-based power plant in the State of Chhattisgarh in Eastern India.

Besides the above, the Company has business interest in zinc, lead, silver, iron ore, steel, ferro alloys, semiconductor, display and other products and services through its subsidiaries in India and overseas.

These are the Company’s separate financial statements.

2 Basis of preparation and basis of measurement of financial statements

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) notified under the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015, presentation requirement of Division II of schedule III and other relevant provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 ("the Act") (as amended from time to time), guidelines issued by the Securities and Exchange Board of India ("SEBI") and Guidance Note on Accounting for Oil and Gas Producing Activities issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

These 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.

The Company has identified 12 months as its operating cycle for the classification of assets and liabilities into current and non-current.

These financial statements are approved for issue by the Board of Directors on 25 April 2024. The revision to these financial statements is permitted by the Board of Directors after obtaining necessary approvals or at the instance of regulatory authorities as per provisions of the Act.

All financial information presented in Indian Rupee has been rounded off to the nearest crore except when indicated otherwise. Amounts less than C 0.50 crore have been presented as "0".

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis using historical cost convention and on an accrual method of accounting, except for certain financial assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value as explained in the accounting policies below.

The Company has availed long term debt (Refer Note 17A and 17b). In the unlikely event, VRL (together with its subsidiaries) ceases to hold more than 50.1% stake in the Company, C 40,423 crore of the Company’s outstanding long-term debt would become repayable on demand. Management basis assessment of free cash flows, its ability to refinance existing debt and other strategic initiatives, considers the same as remote.

3 a) Material accounting policies

(A) Revenue recognition

• Sale of goods/rendering of services (including revenue from contracts with customers)

The Company's revenue from contracts with customers is mainly from the sale of oil and gas, aluminium, copper, iron ore and power. Revenue from contracts with customers is recognised when control of the goods or services is transferred to the customer as per terms of contract, which usually is on delivery of the goods to the shipping agent at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Revenue is recognised net of discounts, volume rebates, outgoing sales taxes/ goods and service tax and other indirect taxes. Revenues from sale of byproducts are included in revenue.

Certain of the Company's sales contracts provide for provisional pricing based on the price on the London Metal Exchange (LME) and crude index, as specified in the contract. Revenue in respect of such contracts is recognised when control passes to the customer and is 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 are accounted in accordance with Ind AS 109 'Financial Instruments’ rather than Ind AS 115 Revenue from contracts with customers and therefore the Ind AS 115 rules on variable consideration do not apply. These 'provisional pricing’ adjustments, i.e., the consideration adjusted post transfer of control are included in total revenue from operations on the face of the statement of profit and loss and disclosed by way of note to the financial statements. Final settlement of the price is based on the applicable price for a specified future period. The Company’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 Company’s share in the revenue from sale of such products, by the joint operations, and is recognised as and when control in these products gets transferred to the customers. In computing its share of revenue, the Company excludes government’s share of profit oil which gets accounted for when the obligation 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 a rate arrived at based on the principles laid down under the relevant Tariff Regulations as notified by the regulatory bodies, as applicable.

If a customer pays consideration before the Company transfers goods or services to the customer, a contract liability is recognised when the payment is received. The advance payments received plus a specified rate of return/ discount, at the prevailing market rates, is settled by supplying respective goods over a period of up to twenty four months under an agreed delivery schedule as per the terms of the respective agreements. As these are contracts that the Company expects, and has the ability, to fulfil through delivery of a non-financial item, these are presented as advance from customers and are recognised as revenue as and when control of respective commodities is transferred to customers under the agreements. The fixed rate of return/ discount is treated as finance cost. The portion of the advance where either the Company does not have a unilateral right to defer settlement beyond 12 months or expects settlement within 12 months from the balance sheet date is classified as a current liability.

•    Interest income

Interest income from debt instruments is recognised using the effective interest rate method.

•    Dividends

Dividend income is recognised in the statement of profit and 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 Company, and the amount of the dividend can be measured reliably.

(B) Property, plant and equipment

i) Mining properties and leases

When a decision is taken that a mining property is viable for commercial production (i.e., when the Company determines that the mining property will provide sufficient and sustainable return relative to the risks and the Company decided to proceed with the mine development), all further preproduction primary development expenditure other than that on land, buildings, plant, equipment and capital work in progress is capitalised as property, plant and equipment under the heading "Mining properties and leases" together with any amount transferred from "Exploration and evaluation" assets. The costs of mining properties and leases, include the costs of acquiring and developing mining properties.

The stripping costs 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 costs 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 capitalised costs relating to the property are written off in the period in which it occurs i.e. when the Company determines that the mining property will not provide sufficient and sustainable returns relative to the risks and the Company decides not to proceed with the mine development.

Commercial reserves are proved and probable reserves as defined by the 'JORC' Code, 'MORC' code or 'SAMREC' Code. 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 statement of profit and 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 statement of profit and 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.

Subsequently, property plant and equipment is measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

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 statement of profit and loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from the continued use of the asset or disposal. Gains and

losses on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment is included in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognised. Major inspection and overhaul expenditure is capitalised, if the recognition criteria are met.

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 associated with the commissioning of an asset and any obligatory decommissioning costs are capitalised until the period of commissioning has been completed and the asset is ready for its intended use.

Capital work in progress is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses, if any.

v)    Depreciation, depletion and amortisation expense

Mining properties and other assets in the course of development or construction and freehold land are not depreciated or amortised.

•    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 capitalised 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 dealt with prospectively.

•    Oil and gas producing facilities

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 depletable 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. Depletable reserves are proved reserves for acquisition costs and proved and developed reserves for successful exploratory wells, development wells, processing facilities,

distribution assets, estimated future abandonment cost and all other related costs. These assets are depleted within each cost centre. Reserves for this purpose are considered on working interest basis which are reassessed atleast annually. Impact of changes to reserves are accounted for prospectively.

• Other assets

Depreciation on other 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) as given below. Management's assessment takes into account, inter alia, 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 lives of assets are as follows:

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 statement of profit and loss if the next overhaul is undertaken earlier than the previously estimated life of the economic benefit.

The Company reviews the residual value and useful life of an asset at least at each financial year-end. The Company considers climate-related matters, including physical and transition risks in its assessment of expected useful lives and estimated residual values. If expectations differ from previous estimates, the change is accounted for as a change in accounting estimate.

(C) Intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured

on initial recognition at cost. Subsequently, intangible

assets are measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

Mining rights include the cost incurred for mines such as stamp duty, registration fees and other such costs together with cost incurred on development of mining rights and other related cost of mines transferred from "Exploration intangible assets under development".

Intangible assets are amortised over their estimated useful life on a straight line basis. Software is amortised over the estimated useful life ranging from 2-5 years. Amounts paid for securing mining rights are amortised over the period of the mining lease ranging from 16-25 years.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are recognised in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognised.

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.

(D) Exploration and evaluation intangible 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 intangible assets are transferred to the appropriate category of property, plant and equipment when the technical feasibility and commercial viability has been determined. Exploration intangible assets under development are assessed for impairment and 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:

• Acquisition costs - costs associated with acquisition of licenses and rights to explore, including related professional fees.

•    General exploration costs - costs of surveys and studies, rights of access to properties to conduct those studies (e.g., costs incurred for environment clearance, defence clearance, etc.), and salaries and other expenses of geologists, geophysical crews and other personnel conducting those studies.

•    Costs of exploration drilling and equipping exploration and appraisal wells.

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. 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 exploration costs are transferred into a single field cost centre within property, plant and equipment - development/producing assets (oil and gas properties) 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 statement of profit and loss.

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.

Net proceeds from any disposal of an exploration asset are initially credited against the previously capitalised costs. Any surplus/ deficit is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

(E) Impairment of non-financial assets

Impairment charges and reversals are assessed at the level of cash-generating units.

The Company assesses at each reporting date, whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. The Company 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. Internal and external factors, such as worse economic performance than expected, 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.

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 company 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 Company'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 Company assesses whether climate risks, including physical risks and transition risks could have a significant impact. If so, these risks are included in the cash-flow forecasts in assessing value in use amounts.

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 statement of profit and 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 Company considers, as a minimum, the following indicators:

•    The period for which the Company 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 Company 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 underway or planned. To the extent that capitalised expenditure is no longer expected to be recovered, it is charged to the statement of profit and loss.

(F) Financial instruments

(i) Financial assets - recognition and subsequent measurement

All financial assets are recognised initially at fair value plus, in the case of financial assets not recorded at fair value through profit or loss,

transaction costs that are attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset. Purchases or sales of financial assets that require delivery of assets within a time frame established by regulation or convention in the market place (regular way trades) are recognised on the trade date, i.e., the date that the Company commits to purchase or sell the asset.

Trade receivables that do not contain a significant financing component are measured at transaction price as per Ind AS 115.

For purposes of subsequent measurement, financial assets are classified in three categories:

•    Financial assets at amortised cost

After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the Effective Interest Rate (EIR) method.

•    Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI)

Debt instruments included within the FVOCI category are measured initially as well as at each reporting date at fair value. Fair value movements are recognised in other comprehensive income (OCI). However, interest income, impairment losses and reversals and foreign exchange gain or loss are recognised in the statement of profit and loss. On derecognition of the asset, cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in other comprehensive income is reclassified from the equity to statement of profit and loss. Interest earned whilst holding fair value through other comprehensive income debt instrument is reported as interest income using the EIR method.

For equity instruments, the Company may make an irrevocable election to present subsequent changes in the fair value in OCI. The Company makes such election on an instrument-by-instrument basis. If the Company decides to classify an equity instrument as at FVOCI, then all fair value changes on the instrument, excluding dividends, are recognised in the OCI. There is no recycling of the amounts from OCI to the statement of profit and loss, even on sale of investment. However, the Company

may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity.

• Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)

Any debt instrument, which does not meet the criteria for categorisation as at amortised cost or as FVOCI, is classified as at FVTPL.

In addition, the Company may elect to designate a debt instrument, which otherwise meets amortised cost or FVOCI criteria, as at FVTPL. However, such election is allowed only if doing so reduces or eliminates a measurement or recognition inconsistency (referred to as 'accounting mismatch’).

The Company has not designated any debt instrument at FVTPL.

Any equity instrument in the scope of Ind AS 109 are is measured at fair value. Equity instruments which are held for trading and contingent consideration recognised by an acquirer in a business combination to which Ind AS 103 applies are classified as at FVTPL.

Further, the provisionally priced trade receivables are marked to market using the relevant forward prices for the future period specified in the contract and is adjusted in revenue.

(ii) Impairment of financial assets

The Company follows 'simplified approach' for recognition of impairment loss allowance on trade receivables, contract assets and lease receivables.

The application of simplified approach does not require the Company to track changes in credit risk. Rather, it recognises impairment loss allowance based on lifetime ECLs at each reporting date, right from its initial recognition.

At each reporting date, for recognition of impairment loss on other financial assets and risk exposure, the Company determines whether there has been a significant increase in the credit risk since initial recognition. If credit risk has not increased significantly, 12-month ECL is used to provide for impairment loss. However, if credit risk has increased significantly, lifetime ECL is used. If, in a subsequent period, credit quality of the instrument improves such that there is no longer a significant increase in credit risk since

initial recognition, then the Company reverts to recognising impairment loss allowance based on 12-month ECL.

ECL impairment loss allowance (or reversal) recognised during the year is recognised as income/ expense in the statement of profit and loss. The balance sheet presentation for various financial instruments is described below:

a)    Financial assets measured at amortised cost: ECL is presented as an allowance,

i.e., as an integral part of the measurement of those assets. The Company does not reduce impairment allowance from the gross carrying amount.

b)    Debt instruments measured at FVOCI: Since financial assets are already reflected at fair value, impairment allowance is not further reduced from its value. Rather, ECL amount is presented as 'accumulated impairment amount' in the OCI.

For assessing increase in credit risk and impairment loss, the Company combines financial instruments on the basis of shared credit risk characteristics with the objective of facilitating an analysis that is designed to enable significant increases in credit risk to be identified on a timely basis.

The Company does not have any purchased or originated credit-impaired (POCI) financial assets, i.e., financial assets which are credit impaired on purchase/ origination.

(iii) Financial liabilities - Recognition and Subsequent measurement

Financial liabilities are classified, at initial recognition, as financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, or as loans, borrowings and payables, or as derivatives designated as hedging instruments in an effective hedge, as appropriate.

All financial liabilities are recognised initially at fair value and, in the case of financial liabilities at amortised cost, net of directly attributable transaction costs.

The Company’s financial liabilities include trade and other payables, loans and borrowings, financial guarantee contracts and derivative financial instruments.

The measurement of financial liabilities depends on their classification, as described below:

•    Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss (FTVPL)

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss include financial liabilities held for trading and financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as at fair value through profit or loss. Financial liabilities are classified as held for trading if they are incurred for the purpose of repurchasing in the near term. This category also includes derivative financial instruments entered into by the Company that are not designated as hedging instruments in hedge relationships as defined by Ind AS 109. Separated embedded derivatives are also classified as held for trading unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments.

Gains or losses on liabilities held for trading are recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

Financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition at fair value through profit or loss are designated as such at the initial date of recognition, and only if the criteria in Ind AS 109 are satisfied. For liabilities designated as FVTPL, fair value gains/ losses attributable to changes in own credit risk are recognised in OCI. These gains/losses are not subsequently transferred to statement of profit and loss. However, the Company may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity. All other changes in fair value of such liability are recognised in the statement of profit and loss. The Company has not designated any financial liability at fair value through profit or loss.

Further, the provisionally priced trade payables are marked to market using the relevant forward prices for the future period specified in the contract and is adjusted in costs.

•    Financial liabilities at amortised cost (Loans, Borrowings and Trade and Other payables)

After initial recognition, interest-bearing loans, borrowings and trade and other payables are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the EIR method. Gains and losses are recognised in the statement of profit and loss when the liabilities are derecognised as well as through the EIR amortisation process.

(iv)    Financial liabilities - Derecognition

A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged or cancelled or expires. When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as the derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability. When a new financial liability is recognised in place of an existing one, the difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

(v)    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 Company are recognised at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

The Company recognises a liability to pay dividend to equity holders of the Company when the distribution is authorised, and the distribution is no longer at the discretion of the Company. As per the corporate laws in India, a distribution with respect to interim dividend is authorised when it is approved by the board of directors of the Company and final dividend is authorised when it is approved by the shareholders. A corresponding amount is recognised directly in equity.

(G) Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting

Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

In order to hedge its exposure to foreign exchange, interest rate, and commodity price risks, the Company enters into forward, option, swap contracts and other derivative financial instruments. The Company does not hold derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Such derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.

Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives are taken directly to the statement of profit and loss, except for the effective portion of cash flow hedges, which is recognised in OCI and later reclassified to the statement of profit and loss when the hedge item affects profit or loss or treated as basis adjustment if a hedged forecast transaction subsequently results in the recognition of a nonfinancial asset or non-financial liability.

Hedges that meet the strict criteria for hedge accounting are accounted for, as described below:

i)    Fair value hedges

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recognised in the statement of profit and loss immediately, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk.

When an unrecognised firm commitment is designated as a hedged item, the subsequent cumulative change in the fair value of the firm commitment attributable to the hedged risk is recognised as an asset or liability with a corresponding gain or loss recognised in the statement of profit and loss. Hedge accounting is discontinued when the Company 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.

ii)    Cash flow hedges

The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised in OCI in the cash flow hedge reserve, while any ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the statement of profit and loss.

Amounts recognised in OCI are transferred to the statement of profit and 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 sale occurs. When the hedged item is the cost of a non-financial asset or non-financial liability, the amounts recognised in OCI are transferred to the initial carrying amount of the non-financial asset or liability.

If the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised without replacement or rollover (as part of the hedging strategy), or if its designation as a hedge is revoked, or when the hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in OCI remains separately in equity until the forecast transaction occurs or the foreign currency firm commitment is met.

(H) Leases

The Company assesses at contract inception, all arrangements to determine whether they are, or contain, a lease. That is, if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

The Company as a lessee applies a single recognition and measurement approach for all leases, except for short-term leases and leases of low-value assets. The Company recognises lease liabilities towards future lease payments and right-of-use assets representing the right to use the underlying assets.

(i)    Right-of-use assets

The Company recognises right-of-use assets at the commencement date of the lease (i.e., the date when the underlying asset is available for use). Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities. The cost of right-of-use assets includes the amount of lease liabilities recognised, initial direct costs incurred, and lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received. The right-of-use assets are also subject to impairment.

Right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straightline basis over the shorter of the lease term and the estimated useful lives of the assets as described in 'B' above.

(ii)    Lease liabilities

At the commencement date of the lease, the Company recognises lease liabilities measured at the present value of lease payments to be made over the lease term. The lease payments include fixed payments (and, in some instances, in-substance fixed payments) less any lease incentives receivable, variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, and amounts expected to be paid under residual value guarantees. The lease payments also include the exercise price of a purchase option reasonably certain to be exercised by the Company and payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the Company exercising the option to terminate. Variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or a rate are recognised as expenses (unless they are incurred to produce inventories) in the period in which the event or condition that triggers the payment occurs.

In calculating the present value of lease payments, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date because the interest rate implicit in the lease is generally not readily determinable. After the commencement date, the amount of lease liabilities is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and reduced for the lease payments made. In addition, the carrying amount of lease liabilities is remeasured if there is a modification, a change in the lease term, a change in the lease payments (e.g., changes to future payments resulting from a change in an index or rate used to determine such lease payments) or a change in the assessment of an option to purchase the underlying asset.

The Company’s lease liabilities are disclosed on the face of Balance sheet.

(iii) Short-term leases and leases of low-value assets

The Company applies the short-term lease recognition exemption to its short-term leases of equipment (i.e., those leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less from the commencement date and do not contain a purchase option). It also applies the lease of low-value assets recognition exemption to leases of office equipment that are considered to be low value. Lease payments on short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are recognised as expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

(I) Inventories

Inventories and work-in-progress are valued 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 a weighted average basis except in Oil and Gas business where stores and spares are valued on 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 weighted average basis (except in copper business where FIFO basis is followed); 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 for completion and disposal.

Inventories of 'Fuel Stock' mainly consist of coal which is used for generating power. On consumption, the cost is charged off to 'Power and Fuel' charges in the statement of profit and loss.

(J)    Government grants

Grants and subsidies from the government are recognised when there is reasonable assurance that

(i)    the Company will comply with the conditions attached to them, and

(ii)    the grant/subsidy will be received.

Where the grant relates to an asset, it is recognised as deferred income and released to income in equal amounts over the expected useful life of the related asset and presented within other income.

(K)    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 the exceptions below, deferred tax is provided, using the balance sheet method, on all temporary differences at the reporting date between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes and on carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses;

•    Deferred income tax is not recognised on initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that:

(i)    is not a business combination;

(ii)    at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit (tax loss); and

(iii)    at the time of the transaction, does not give rise to equal taxable and deductible temporary differences; and

•    Deferred tax assets are recognised only to the extent that it is more likely than not that they will be recovered.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets 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.

Further, management periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation and considers whether it is probable that a taxation authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment. The Company shall reflect the effect of uncertainty for each uncertain tax treatment by using either most likely method or expected value method, depending on which method predicts better resolution of the treatment.

(L)    Retirement benefit schemes

The Company 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 statement of profit and loss.

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 are recognised within employee benefit expense. Net interest expense or income is recognised within finance costs.

For defined contribution schemes, the amount charged to the statement of profit and loss in respect of pension costs and other post retirement benefits is the contributions payable in the year, recognised as and when the employee renders related services.

(M)    Share-based payments

Certain employees (including executive directors) of the Company 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 of share awards 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 Company’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.

(N) Provisions, contingent liabilities and contingent assets

Provisions represent liabilities for which the amount or timing is uncertain. Provisions are recognised when the Company 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 statement of profit and 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 Company 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 Company does not recognise a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the Balance Sheet.

Contingent assets are not recognised but disclosed in the financial statements when an inflow of economic benefit is probable.

The Company has significant capital commitments in relation to various capital projects which are not recognised in the balance sheet.

(O)    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 statement of profit and 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 impact of climate-related matters, such as changes in environmental regulations and other relevant legislation, is considered by the Company in estimating the restoration, rehabilitation and environmental costs. 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 cost in the statement of profit and loss.

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 statement of profit and loss as extraction progresses. Where the costs of site restoration are not anticipated to be material, they are expensed as incurred.

(P)    Accounting for foreign currency transactions

The functional currency of the Company is determined as the currency of the primary economic environment in which it operates. For all principal businesses of the Company, the functional currency is Indian rupee (C)

with an exception of oil and gas business operations which has a US dollar functional currency as that is the currency of the primary economic environment in which it operates. The financial statements are presented in Indian rupee (C).

In the financial statements of the Company, 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 statement of profit and loss except those where the monetary item designated as an effective hedging instrument of the currency risk of designated forecasted sales or purchases, which are recognised in the other comprehensive income.

The Statement of Profit and Loss of oil and gas business is translated into Indian Rupees (C) at the average rates of exchange during the year / exchange rates as on the date of the transaction. The Balance Sheet is translated at the exchange rate as at the reporting date. Exchange difference arising on translation is recognised in other comprehensive income and would be recycled to the statement of profit and loss as and when these operations are disposed off.

The Company had applied paragraph 46A of AS 11 under Previous GAAP Ind AS 101 gives an option, which has been exercised by the Company, whereby a first time adopter can continue its Indian GAAP policy for accounting for exchange differences arising from translation of long-term foreign currency monetary items recognised in the Indian GAAP financial statements for the period ending immediately before the beginning of the first Ind AS financial reporting period. Hence, foreign exchange gain/loss on long-term foreign currency monetary items recognised upto 31 March 2016 has been deferred/capitalised. Such exchange differences arising on translation/settlement of longterm foreign currency monetary items and pertaining to the acquisition of a depreciable asset are amortised over the remaining useful lives of the assets.

Exchange differences arising on translation/ settlement of long-term foreign currency monetary items, acquired post 01 April 2016, pertaining to the acquisition of a

depreciable asset are charged to the statement of profit and loss.

(Q)    Buyers' Credit/ Suppliers' Credit and vendor financing

The Company enters into arrangements whereby banks and financial institutions make direct payments to suppliers for raw materials and project materials. The banks and financial institutions are subsequently repaid by the Company at a later date providing working capital timing benefits. These are normally settled between twelve months (for raw materials) to thirty-six months (for project materials). Where these arrangements are with a maturity of up to twelve months, the economic substance of the transaction is determined to be operating in nature and these are recognised as operational buyers’ credit/ suppliers' credit and disclosed on the face of the balance sheet. Where these arrangements are with a maturity beyond twelve months and up to thirty six months, the economic substance of the transaction is determined to be financing in nature, and these are presented within borrowings in the balance sheet. Interest expense on these are recognised in the finance cost. Payments made by banks and financial institutions to the operating vendors are treated as a non cash item and settlement of due to operational buyer’s credit/ suppliers’ credit by the Company is treated as an operating cash outflow reflecting the substance of the payment.

(R)    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.

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.

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.

If any specific borrowing remains outstanding after the related asset is ready for its intended use or sale, that borrowing then becomes part of general borrowing.

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 statement of profit and 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.

(S)    Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and on hand and short-term money market 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.

For the purpose of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits, as defined above.

(T)    Equity investment in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

Investments representing equity interest in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures are carried at cost less impairment, if any.

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.

Joint Operations

The Company 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 Company accounts for its share of assets and income and expenditure of joint operations in which it holds an interest. Liabilities in unincorporated joint ventures, where the Company 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 financial statements under the appropriate headings.

(U)    Common Control transactions

The transactions between entities under common control are specifically covered by Ind AS 103. Such transactions are accounted for using the pooling-of-interest method. The assets and liabilities of the acquired entity are recognised at their carrying amounts recorded in the parent entity’s consolidated financial statements with the exception of certain income tax and deferred tax assets. No adjustments are made to reflect fair values, or recognise any new assets or liabilities. The only adjustments that are made are to harmonise accounting policies. The components of equity of the acquired companies are added to the same components within the Company's equity. The difference, if any, between the amounts recorded as share capital issued plus any additional consideration in the form of cash or other assets and the amount of share capital of the transferor is transferred to 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 are combined, retrospectively, as if the transaction had occurred at the beginning of the earliest reporting period presented. However, the prior year comparative information is only adjusted for periods during which entities were under common control.

(V)    Exceptional items

Exceptional items are those items that management considers, by virtue of their size or incidence (including but not limited to impairment charges and acquisition and restructuring related costs), should be disclosed separately to ensure that the financial information allows an understanding of the underlying performance of the business in the year, so as to facilitate comparison with prior periods. No tax impact other than tax impact on exceptional items including change in

tax regime are considered exceptional. Such items are material by nature or amount to the year’s result and require separate disclosure in accordance with Ind AS.

The determination as to which items should be disclosed separately requires a degree of judgement.

The details of exceptional items are set out in note 34.

3(b)Application of new and amended standards

(A)    The Company has adopted, with effect from 01 April 2023, the following new and revised standards and interpretations. Their adoption has not had any significant impact on the amounts reported in the financial statements.

1.    Ind AS 1 Presentation of financial statements: The amendment requires disclosure of material accounting policies rather than significant accounting policies;

2.    Ind AS 12 Income Taxes: The amendment clarifies application of initial recognition exemption to transactions such as leases and decommissioning obligations;

3.    Ind AS 8 Accounting Policies, Change in Accounting Estimates and Errors: The amendment replaces definition of 'change in accounting estimates’ with the definition of 'accounting estimates’

(B)    Standards notified but not yet effective

No new standards have been notified during the year ended 31 March 2024.

3(c) Significant accounting estimates and judgements

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Ind AS 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 financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the years presented. These judgments 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:

(A) Significant Estimates

(i)    Carrying value of exploration and evaluation assets

Exploration assets are assessed by comparing the carrying value to higher of fair value less cost of disposal or value in use if impairment indicators, as contained in Ind AS 106, exists. Change to the valuation of exploration assets is an area of judgement. Further details on the Company’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 will be written off to the statement of profit and loss as exploration costs unless commercial reserves are established or the determination process is not completed and there are no indications 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 carrying values are disclosed in note 5.

(ii)    Copper operations in Tamil Nadu, India

Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board ("TNPCB") had issued a closure order of the Tuticorin Copper smelter, against which the Company had filed an appeal with the National Green Tribunal ("NGT"). NGT had, on 08 August 2013, ruled that the Copper smelter could continue its operations subject to implementation of recommendations of the Expert Committee appointed by the NGT. The 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 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, the TNPCB vide its order dated 23 May 2018 ordered closure of existing copper smelter plant with immediate effect. Further, the Government of Tamil Nadu

(“Expansion Project") dated 12 March 2018 before the Expert Appraisal Committee of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change ("the MoEFCC") 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 Madras High Court in a Public Interest Litigation held vide its order dated 23 May 2018 that the application for renewal of the Environmental Clearance for the Expansion Project shall be processed after a mandatory public hearing and in the interim, ordered the Company to cease construction and all other activities on site for the proposed Expansion Project with immediate effect. The MoEFCC has delisted the Expansion Project since the matter is sub-judice. Separately, SIPCOT vide its letter dated 29 May 2018, cancelled 342.22 acres of the land allotted for the proposed Expansion Project. Further, the TNPCB issued orders on 07 June 2018 directing the withdrawal of the Consent to Establish ("CTE") which was valid till 31 March 2023.

The Company has approached Madras High Court by way of writ petition challenging the cancellation of lease deeds by SIPCOT pursuant to which an interim stay has been granted. The Company has also appealed this action before the TNPCB Appellate Authority. The matter has been adjourned until the conclusion of the existing Plant review petition filed before the Supreme Court.

As per the Company's assessment, it is in compliance with the applicable regulations. Considering prolonged time of plant closure and uncertainties around opening of plant due to rejection of SLP by Hon’ble Supreme Court, the Company has carried out an impairment assessment, on Tuticorin plant assets having carrying value of C 1,681 crore (including PPE, CWIP and inventory) using Depreciated Replacement Cost / Scrap Value method for PPE and CWIP, and Net recoverable method for inventory. Accordingly, impairment on assets of C 746 crore (including PPE of C 553 crore, CWIP of C 130 crore and loss on inventory of C 63 crore) has been recorded during the year ended 31 March 2024.

Property, plant and equipment of C 432 crore (31 March 2023: C 1,033 crore) and inventories of C 217 crore (31 March 2023: C 269 crore), pertaining to existing and expansion plant, could not be physically verified, anytime during the year, as the access to the plant is presently restricted. However, any difference between book and physical quantities is unlikely to be material.

(iii)    Oil and Gas reserves

Significant technical and commercial judgements are required to determine the Company’s estimated oil and natural gas reserves. Reserves considered for computing depletion are proved reserves for acquisition costs and proved and developed reserves for successful exploratory wells, development wells, processing facilities, distribution assets, estimated future abandonment cost and all other related costs. Reserves for this purpose are considered on working interest basis which are reassessed at least annually. Details of such reserves are given in note 43. Changes in reserves as a result of change in management assumptions could impact the depreciation rates and the carrying value of assets (refer note 5).

(iv)    Carrying value of developing/producing oil and gas assets

Management performs impairment tests on the Company’s developing/producing oil and gas assets where indicators of impairment are identified in accordance with Ind AS 36.

The impairment assessments are based on a rang of estimates and assumptions, including:

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 and impairment charge/ (reversal) and the assumptions used are disclosed in note 5 and 34 respectively.

(v) Climate Change

The Company aims to achieve net carbon neutrality by 2050, has committed reduction in emission by 25% by 2030 from 2021 baseline, net water positivity by 2030 as part of its climate risk assessment and has outlined its climate risk assessment and opportunities in the ESG strategy. Climate change may have various impacts on the Company in the medium to long term. These impacts include the risks and opportunities related to the demand of products and services, impact due to transition to a low-carbon economy, disruption to the supply chain, risk of physical harm to the assets due to extreme weather conditions, regulatory changes etc. The accounting related measurement and disclosure items that are most impacted by our commitments, and climate change risk more generally, relate to those areas of the financial statements that are prepared under the historical cost convention and are subject to estimation uncertainties in the medium to long term.

The potential effects of climate change may be on assets and liabilities that are measured based on an estimate of future cash flows. The main ways in which potential climate change impacts have been considered in the preparation of the financial statements, pertain to (a) inclusion of capex in cash flow projections, (b) recoverable amounts of existing assets and (c) review of estimates of useful lives of property, plant and equipment.

The Company's strategy consists of mitigation and adaptation measures. The Company is committed to reduce its carbon footprint by limiting its exposure to coal-based projects and reducing its GHG emissions through high impact initiatives such as investment in Renewable Energy, fuel switch, electrification of vehicles and mining fleet and energy efficiency opportunities. During the current year, work has progressed towards the construction of renewable power delivery agreements in accordance with the Board approved plan (Refer Note 38(A)(ii)). Renewable sources have limitations in supplying round the clock power, so existing power plants would support transition and fleet replacement is part of normal lifecycle renewal. The Company has also taken certain measures towards water management such as commissioning of sewage treatment plants, rainwater harvesting, and reducing fresh water consumption. Collectively these measures have led

to an increase of our water positivity to 0.7 (FY23: 0.63). These initiatives are aligned with the group's ESG strategy and no material changes were identified to the financial statements as a result

As the Company’s assessment of the potential impacts of climate change and the transition to a low-carbon economy continues to mature, any future changes in Company's climate change strategy, changes in environmental laws and regulations and global decarbonisation measures may impact the Company's significant judgments and key estimates and result in changes to financial statements and carrying values of certain assets and liabilities in future reporting periods. However, as of the balance sheet date, the Company believes that there is no material impact on carrying values of its assets or liabilities.

(B) Significant Judgement (i) Contingencies:

In the normal course of business, contingent liabilities may arise from litigation, taxation and other claims against the Company. A provision is recognised when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past events and it is probable that the Company 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 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 Company does not expect them to have a materially adverse impact on the Company’s financial position or profitability. These are set out in Note 38.

For other significant litigations where the possibility of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits is remote, refer note 44.

(ii) Revenue recognition and receivable recovery in relation to the power division:

In certain cases, the Company’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 Ind AS 115 and to assess the recoverability of withheld revenue currently accounted for as receivables.

In assessing this critical judgment, management considered favourable external legal opinions that the Company has obtained in relation to the claims. In addition, the fact that the contracts are with government owned companies implies that the credit risk is low [refer note 7 (c)].

3(d)Acquisitions, Restructuring and Disposal of Subsidiary

(i) Athena Chhattisgarh Power Limited

On 21 July 2022, the Company acquired Athena Chhattisgarh Power Limited ("ACPL"), an unrelated party, under the liquidation proceedings of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, for a consideration of C 565 crore, subject to approval by the National Company Law Tribunal ("NCLT"). ACPL is building a 1,200 MW coal-based power plant located in Jhanjgir Champa district, Chhattisgarh.

The Company filed a resolution application with the NCLT in July 2022 and further amended the application in November 2022 praying for merger of ACPL with the Company. The Company also sought various reliefs from certain legal and regulatory provisions as part of these applications. Pending receipt of NCLT approval, the Company had recorded the above transaction as an advance in its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023.

The NCLT approved the Company's resolution application with an appointed date of 21 July 2022 ("appointed date"), in its July 2023 order ("NCLT Order"). In accordance with applicable Ind AS, the Company has restated its financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 March 2023 to record this merger.

The Scheme of merger as approved by the NCLT interalia prescribes the following accounting treatment in the standalone financial statements of the Company: the difference between the fair value at the appointed date and the carrying value of the assets recorded pursuant to the amalgamation at their book value arrived at without considering any impairment/ write-off, would be written off by debit to the Statement of Profit

and Loss of the Company and credited to the carrying value of the assets. This would be a permanent write-off of the carrying value of the assets and not a provision for diminution in the value of the assets. The charge on account of write-off of the assets, as mentioned above, as recorded by the Company will be transferred from its Retained Earnings to its Capital Reserve and accordingly, the Capital Reserve will stand diminished by the said amount.

Pursuant to the NCLT Order, the Company has merged ACPL by carrying forward the book values of ACPL's assets of C 8,698 crore (as appearing in ACPL's financial statements as at 31 March 2022, which were audited by ACPL's auditors) at the appointed date without considering any impairment, applying Appendix C of Ind AS 103 - Business Combinations, instead of recognising the assets at purchase consideration in accordance with Ind AS 16. The difference between the values of assets acquired and the consideration paid was credited to Other Equity (Capital Reserve). The Company has written off the consequent loss of C 8,133 crore in the Statement of Profit and Loss for the year ended 31 March 2023, representing the difference between the book value of assets and consideration paid. The assets written off of C 8,133 crore, excluding tax consequences thereof, has been transferred from 'Retained Earnings’ to 'Capital Reserve’, in accordance with the Scheme. The above is in accordance with the NCLT Order, overriding the applicable Ind AS requirements.

Consequent to the implementation of the merger, a deferred tax credit of C 2,036 crore was recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss with a corresponding increase in carrying value of deferred tax assets in the comparative balance sheet as at 31 March 2023 due to difference between carrying value of assets as per books (book base) and tax base of the asset (original cost of acquisition by Athena), and the carrying values of deferred tax assets (MAT credit) was lower by C 1,421 crore with a corresponding reduction in income tax liabilities by C 979 crore and an increase in income tax assets by C 442 crore as at 31 March 2023, on account of the lower MAT charge. These restated balances of 31 March 2023 have been carried to FY 2023-24.

As a result of the above, the profit before tax was lower by C 8,133 crore and profit after tax was lower by C 6,097 crore for the year ended 31 March 2023. Consequently, the earnings per share (EPS) was lower by C 16.39 per share for the year ended 31 March 2023.

(ii) Meenakshi Energy Limited

Meenakshi Energy Limited ("Meenakshi") is a 1,000 MW coal-based power plant located at Nellore, Andhra

Pradesh. NCLT vide its order dated 10 August 2023 has granted its approval for the Resolution Plan as submitted by the Company for acquisition of Meenakshi under Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process in accordance with the provisions of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 for a total consideration of C 1,440 crore.

Pursuant to the approval of Resolution Plan, the Company has made a payment of upfront consideration of C 312 crore and infused C 1 crore through equity for the implementation of approved Resolution Plan.

On 16 October 2023, zero coupon, secured, unlisted non-convertible debentures ("NCDs") of aggregate face value of C 1,128 crore have been issued by Meenakshi to its financial creditors, redeemable in 5 equal annual instalments starting from 16 October 2025. Consequent to satisfaction of all conditions precedent of the Resolution Plan, the Company has acquired control of Meenakshi on 27 December 2023. The above acquisition meets the criterion of asset acquisition under Ind AS 103 - Business Combinations.

(iii) Scheme of Arrangement for demerger

The Board of Directors, in its meeting held on 29 September 2023, has approved a Scheme of Arrangement ("the Scheme") for demerger of various businesses of the Company. The Scheme entails demerger of the Company’s Aluminium (represented by the Aluminium segment), Merchant Power (represented by the Power segment), Oil and Gas (represented by the Oil and Gas segment), Base Metals (represented by the Copper and Zinc International segment) and Iron Ore (represented by Iron Ore segment and Steel business)

Undertakings into 6 separate companies with a mirrored shareholding and consequent listings at BSE Limited and National Stock Exchange of India Limited ("the Stock Exchanges").

The Company has filed the Scheme with the Stock Exchanges. Upon receipt of necessary approvals from the Stock Exchanges, the Scheme will be filed with the NCLT. Pending regulatory and other approvals, no adjustments have been recorded in the financial statements of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2024.

(iv) Disposal of subsidiary

During the year ended 31 March 2024, Monte Cello BV ("MCBV"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, sold 100% of its equity ownership in its wholly owned subsidiary, Copper Mines of Tasmania ("CMT") which was previously engaged in copper mining operations in Australia. The Group has received upfront cash consideration of C 84 crore (US$ 10 million) and derecognised net liabilities of C 94 crore (US$ 11 million) pertaining to CMT, as reported in the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024. Further, as part of the transaction, the acquirer shall pay the Group additional consideration in future upto US$ 310 million by way of fee/ royalties, on achieving certain pre-agreed milestones. Accordingly, based on these expected future cash flows, the Company has reversed previously recorded impairment of C 204 crore on its investments in MCBV as an exceptional item, in these financial statements.