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Vedanta Resources plc

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FY2014 Annual Report · Vedanta Resources plc
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Annual report and accounts 
FY2014

10 years of delivery

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Additional
information

Vision
To be a world class, diversified 
resources company providing 
superior returns to our 
shareholders, with high quality 
assets, low-cost operations and 
sustainable development.

Investor presentations 
www.vedantaresources.com

Online annual report
ar2014.vedantaresources.com

Sustainability website 
sustainability.vedantaresources.com

Online sustainability report
www.vedantaresources.com/
SustainableDevelopment2013-14

Vedanta Resources plc is a UK 
listed global diversified natural 
resources company

1

2

1 
Engineers at Balco smelting complex, 
Balco.

Strategic Report
02
Highlights 
04
Key information for investors 
Chairman’s statement 
10
Incoming Chief Executive Officer’s statement  14
16
Open forum 
18
Market overview 
20
Business model 
22
Strategic framework 
24
Sustainability report 
30
Key performance indicators 
32
Principal risks and uncertainties 
39
Going concern 
40
Finance review 
48
Operational review 
48
–  Zinc-Lead-Silver 
54
–  Oil & Gas 
58
–  Iron Ore 
62
–  Copper 
68
–  Aluminium 
72
–  Power 

Directors’ Report
Board of Directors 
Senior management team 
Corporate governance report 
Audit Committee report 
Nominations Committee report 
Sustainability Committee report 
Remuneration Committee letter 
Directors’ Remuneration Policy report 
Annual Report on remuneration 
Directors’ report 
Directors’ responsibilities statement 

76
78
80
93
98
100
102
103
108
116
119

Financial Statements
Independent Auditor’s report 
Consolidated income statement 
Consolidated statement of  
125
comprehensive income 
126
Consolidated balance sheet 
Consolidated cash flow statement 
128
Consolidated statement of changes in equity  129
131
Notes to the financial statements 

120
124

2 
Women at self help groups, HZL.

Additional Information
Five year summary 
Production and reserves summary 
Glossary and definitions 
Shareholder information 
Contacts 
Awards and accolades 

198
202
207
212
213
213

01

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
Highlights

Vedanta has produced a robust set of results 
in a volatile market and the fundamentals of 
our business remain strong.

Revenue (US$bn)

EBITDA  (US$bn)

1

14.0

14.6

12.9

11.4

7.9

4.9

4.5

4.0

3.6

2.3

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Vedanta marks 10 years since 
London IPO

•  Built a diversified portfolio of 
high-quality, world class assets

•  Delivered Total Shareholder Return 
of 200%, higher than the            
FTSE100 and FTSE350 Mining 
Indices

•  Increased dividend in nine of the 
last 10 years; dividend growth 
CAGR of 14% since IPO

Free cash flow (US$bn)

3.5

3.0

2.5

2.3

1.8

Dividend per share  
(US cents)

58.0

52.5

55.0

45.0

61.0

Financial highlights

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Consolidated Group Results

Revenue
EBITDA1
  EBITDA margin (%)
  EBITDA margin excluding custom smelting2 (%)
Operating profit before special items
(Loss)/profit attributable to equity holders
Underlying attributable profit3
Basic (Loss)/earnings per share (US cents)
Earnings per share on underlying profit (US cents)
ROCE (excluding project capital work in progress and 

exploratory assets) (%)

Total Dividend (US cents per share)

FY2013–14

FY2012–134 % Change

12,945.0
4,491.2
34.7%
44.9%
2,288.1
(196.0)
93.4
(71.7)
34.2

14,640.2  
4,908.9  
33.5%  
45.1%  
2,571.7  
162.0  
367.9  
59.4  
134.8  

(11.6)%
(8.5)%
–
–
(11.0)%
–
(74.6)%
–
(74.6)%

14.9%

61.0

17.5%  

–

58.0  

5.2%

02

•  Revenue of US$12.9 billion
•  EBITDA1 of US$4.5 billion; EBITDA 

margin of 45%2

•  Underlying attributable profit 

US$93.4 million

•  Basic EPS (71.7) US cents, 

Underlying EPS3 of 34.2 US cents

•  Free cash flow of US$3.0 billion 

before growth capex and US$1.6 
billion after growth capex

•  Net debt reduced by US$0.7 billion 
over the last 12 months and by 
US$2.1 billion over the last 24 
months

•  Final dividend of 39 US cents per 

share, up 5%

1  Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation, 
amortisation/impairment and special items.

2  Excludes custom smelting revenue and EBITDA at 
Copper and Zinc India operations from purchased 
concentrate.

3  Based on profit for the period after adding back 

special items and other gains and losses, and their 
resultant tax and non-controlling interest effects 
(refer to note 11 of financial statements).

4  The comparative information has been restated so 

as to reflect the adoption of new accounting 
standards.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report“We achieved record oil and gas production, driven by 
the ramp up in the Rajasthan block, as well as record 
production at Zinc India and improved operating 
performance at our aluminium business.”

Anil Agarwal Chairman

Business highlights

•  Sesa Sterlite merger and Group 

consolidation completed

•  Record oil & gas production at 

Rajasthan: Achieved milestone of 
200kboepd in March 2014 and 
cumulative production of 200 
million barrels; 100% reserve 
replacement during the year
•  Record production of mined and 
integrated metal at Zinc India
•  Improved operating performance 
at aluminium smelters without 
captive bauxite and commissioning 
of new pot-lines commenced
•  Strong utilisations at Tuticorin 

copper smelter; second 80MW unit 
of power plant commissioned 
during Q4

•  Synchronised first 660MW unit 
of 1,980MW Talwandi Sabo 
power plant

•  Continued cost control and 
efficiency improvements  
across businesses

•  Iron ore production restarted in 

Karnataka and mining ban in Goa 
lifted with certain conditions laid 
out by the Supreme Court

•  Key priorities for the coming year 

are to improve operating 
performance at KCM, restart iron 
ore mining, improving capacity 
utilisation at Aluminium and  
Power and improvement in  
safety performance

Strong production growth at 
Zinc India
Record production of mined and 
integrated metal at Zinc India.

Record production of Oil & Gas
200kboepd milestone achieved during 
the year and cumulative production of 
over 200 million barrels achieved within 
five years at the Rajasthan block.

Robust operating performance 
at Aluminium business
Strong cost performance in Aluminium 
operations, and new pot lines 
commissioned at the Korba smelter.

Group structure simplification
Merger of Sterlite Industries (India) Ltd. 
and Sesa Goa Ltd. completed to form 
Sesa Sterlite.

Net debt reduction
Net debt down by US$0.7 billion over the 
last 12 months and by US$2.1 billion over 
the last 24 months.

1

2

3

4

5

1  Trucks at zinc-lead mine, HZL.

2  Mangala processing terminal, Cairn India.

3  Engineers at Aluminium smelter, BALCO.

4  Engineers examining ore at pig iron plant in Goa, Sesa Sterlite.

5  Women from local community, Orissa.

03

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Key information  
for investors

Large, long life, low cost, scalable assets.

p66

Konkola Copper Mines

One of the highest-grade large copper mines in the world.

Businesses 

Production volume

EBITDA

Listed on LSE

Vedanta Resources

Copper Zambia 
(KCM)

Mined metal 
128kt
Finished copper 
177kt

Cost curve position R&R life

4th Quartile

25+ years

US$156.3m

79.4%

58.3%

Listed on NSE,
BSE and NYSE

Sesa Sterlite

ZLS

O&G

p48

p54

Fe

p58

Zinc-Lead-Silver

Oil & Gas

Businesses

Zinc India (HZL)
Zinc International

Production 
volume

880kt
364kt

Cost curve 
position

EBITDA

US$1,145.0m
US$213.4m

Businesses

Cairn India 

Production 
volume

219k boepd 
(average daily gross 
operating production)

Iron Ore

Businesses

India Iron Ore Operations 
and Liberia Iron Ore Project

EBITDA

US$2,347m

Production 
volume
1.5mt1

EBITDA

US$(24.2)m

R&R Life

Cost curve 
position

R&R life

Cost curve 
position

R&R life2

1st Quartile
2nd Quartile

25+ years
20+ years

1st Quartile

15 years

1st Quartile

20+ years

1  Production at Karnataka suspended until December 
2013 and suspended for the full financial year at Goa.

2  Excluding Liberia.

04

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cu

p62

Al

p68

Pwr

p72

Copper

Aluminium

Power

Businesses

Businesses

Businesses/plants

Tuticorin smelter, India
Copper Mines of Tasmania

BALCO, Jharsuguda 
Aluminium

MALCO, HZL Wind Power, 
Jharsuguda Power Plant, 
Talwandi Sabo

EBITDA

US$197.9m

Production 
volume

Mined metal 
18kt
Copper 
cathodes 
294kt

Cost curve 
position

2nd Quartile

Production 
volume

Aluminium 
794kt

Cost curve 
position

2nd Quartile 

EBITDA

Power sales

EBITDA

US$287.3m

9,374 million 
Kwh

US$168.4m

05

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
 
 
 
Key information  
for investors continued

Producing and supplying 
commodities to a number 
of emerging markets.

6

3

2

15

15

4

5

1

7

20

20

14

14

13

13

13

12

16

1 
2 
3  
4  

Debari smelter
Chanderiya smelters
Rampura Agucha mine
 Rajpura Dariba mine & smelters  
and Sindesar Khurd mine
Zawar mine
Talwandi Sabo power project
Silvassa refinery
Iron ore operations – Goa
Iron ore operations – Karnataka

5  
6 
7  
8  
9 
10  Tuticorin smelter
11  MALCO power plant
12   Lanjigarh alumina refinery
13  
14   Korba smelters & power plants
15   Rajasthan block
16   Ravva (PKGM-1) block
17   KG-ONN-2003/1 block
18   KG-OSN-2009/3 block
19   PR-OSN-2004/1 block
20   Cambay (CB/052) block
21   MB-DWN-2009/1 block
22   SL 2007-01-001 block

 Jharsuguda smelters & power plants

21

8

9

16

17

18

19

Zinc-Lead-Silver
Oil & Gas
Iron Ore
Copper
Aluminium
Power
Projects under development
Captive thermal power plant

11

10

10

22

06

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report23 

  Lisheen mine,  
  Ireland

23

25

26 27

25 
 26, 27 

  Iron Ore project, Liberia
 Konkola and Nchanga  
copper mines & Nchanga  
smelter, Zambia

28 
29 

  Skorpion mine, Namibia
 Black Mountain mine,  
South Africa

30 

  South Africa Block 1

28

30

29

24 

  Mt Lyell mine, Australia

24

Revenue by geography
6 7 8

5

4

3

2

Revenue by business

6

5

1

1  Zinc-Lead  21%
2  Oil & Gas  23%
2%
3  Iron Ore 
4  Copper 
35%
5  Aluminium  13%
5%
6  Power 

64%
1  India 
13%
2  China 
6%
3  Middle East 
4  Europe 
4%
5  Far East others1  8%
2%
6  Africa 
7  Asia others2 
1%
8  Others3 
2%

1

2

4

3

1  Far East others includes a number of countries, primarily Korea, Thailand, Singapore and Mauritius.
2  Asia others include Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan.
3  Others include the United States, Australia, New Zealand and a number of countries that are not classified 

in the other available categories.

07

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014  
 
Key information  
for investors continued

Well-invested assets generating significant 
free cash flows.

Production growth
(in Copper equivalent kt)1

Strong free cash flow
(US$ billion numbers)

G R

A

1 0.3 x or 2 6 %  C

1,800

1,600

1,400

1,200

1,000

800

600

400

200

0

4.0

3.5

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0.0

FY
04

FY
05

FY
06

FY
07

FY
08

FY
09

FY
10

FY
11

FY
12

FY
13

FY
14

FY
10

FY
11

FY
12 PF

FY
13

FY
14

FY
15e

FY
16e

FY
17e

Zinc-Lead
Silver

Iron Ore
Aluminium

Power
Copper

Oil & Gas

M&M Capex
O&G Capex1

Free Cash Flow FY2

Since IPO in 2004, Vedanta has grown production across 
its portfolio supported by its well-invested expansion 
programme and continued focus on increasing R&R over 
production each year.

Vedanta is reaping benefits of its expansion programme  
as project ramp ups are driving free cash flow generation,  
which exceeded capex by US$1.6 billion this year.

1  All commodity and power capacities rebased to copper equivalent capacity 
(defined as production x commodity price / copper price) using average 
commodity prices for FY2014. Power rebased using FY2014 realisations. 
Copper custom smelting capacities rebased at TC/RC for FY2014. Iron Ore 
volumes refers to sales, with prices rebased at average 56/58% FOB prices for 
FY2014. For Oil & Gas, production refers to Working Interest.

M&M refers to Metals and Mining, O&G refers to Oil & Gas.
1  Capex net to Cairn India; subject to Government of India approval.
2  Free cash flow after sustaining capex but before growth capex.

08

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportDariba smelting complex, HZL

Consistent margins driven 
by diversification
(EBITDA by segment in US$ million)

Cost efficient Tier 1 assets driving 
high margins
(EBITDA margins ex custom smelting)

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

FY
04

FY
05

FY
06

FY
07

FY
08

FY
09

FY
10

FY
11

FY
12

FY
13

FY
14

Zinc-Lead
Aluminium

Iron Ore
Power

Copper
Oil & Gas

EBITDA 
Margin1

A broad natural resources portfolio diversified across base 
metals, bulks and Oil & Gas has delivered consistent EBITDA 
margins in excess of 30% over the last 10 years.

VED

Peer 1 Peer 2 Peer 3 Peer 4 Peer 5 Peer 6

Vedanta’s strong portfolio of Tier 1 assets with the majority 
of its assets positioned in the lower half of the global cost 
curve has enabled the Company to deliver high margins 
through the cycles.

1  Margins exclude custom smelting at Copper and Zinc India operations.

Source: Bloomberg.
Peers are Anglo American, BHP Billiton, Freeport McMoran, Glencore Xstrata 
(Mining business), Rio Tinto, Teck and Vale.

09

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Chairman’s statement

Diversified portfolio delivering consistent 
performance in a challenging market.

In particular we were delighted with the 
performance of the Oil & Gas division, 
Cairn India, which passed two notable 
milestones during the year. The onshore, 
prolific, Rajasthan block achieved the 
landmark of 200 million barrels of 
cumulative oil production over its life, 
and also reached a production rate of 
200,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day 
in March 2014, against a production rate 
of 125,000 barrels of oil equivalent per 
day, when we acquired this business.

I warmly congratulate the team on this fine 
achievement, and I also thank the Indian 
government whose partnership has been 
crucial. Cairn now produces 27% of India’s 
oil production and with the Government’s 
focus on increasing India’s oil production, 
it can contribute further to helping reduce 
India’s dependence on imported oil & gas 
which still accounts for 75% of its needs.

Zinc India is the second largest integrated 
zinc producer globally with a mine life 
of more than 25 years and costs in the 
lowest quartile of the global cost curve. 
It delivered an excellent performance 
with a record production of mined 
and integrated refined metal.

Financial performance
The year saw revenues of US$12.9 
billion and an EBITDA of US$4.5 billion 
despite lower commodity prices.

EBITDA reflected weaker global commodity 
and oil prices, increased rate of share of profit 
on petroleum to the Government of India, 
although these were partly offset by lower 
costs in aluminium, increased volumes at 
Zinc India and our record oil production.

We also experienced lower volumes at 
Konkola Copper Mine (‘KCM’) and Zinc 
International and Iron Ore, where the 
state-wide bans on mining in Karnataka 
and Goa were lifted in December 2013 
and April 2014 respectively, albeit with 
conditions. We resumed mining in Karnataka 
in December, and are currently working with 
the State Government and the Environment 
Ministry to restart operations in Goa.

I have always believed that the ability to produce robust results  
in volatile markets is the hallmark of a strong and agile company. 
I am therefore pleased to announce another set of commendable 
operating and financial results delivered by our management 
team and employees, as we mark a decade at Vedanta.

Ten years ago we had a vision to create a 
large global diversified natural resources 
major that unlocks the remarkable resource 
potential of India, meets the growing 
demand of a nation of a billion people, and 
gives investors an opportunity to participate 
in the journey with the comfort of a premium 
listing on the London Stock Exchange.

We believe the benefits have been felt 
all-round: since our IPO at 390 pence in 
December 2003, shareholders have seen 
a Total Shareholder Return of over 200% 
and we have paid a progressive dividend 
that was increased in nine out of 10 
years and held constant for one year.

We now stand as one of the world’s 
largest diversified resources company with 
operations in India, Zambia, Namibia, 
South Africa, Ireland, Liberia, Australia and 
Sri Lanka, which directly and indirectly, 
enhances the lives of at least 4.1 million 
people across the world. As we look back 
over this first decade I am proud of the 
contribution that we have made, both 
fiscally and socially, to the exchequer, our 
employees and the numerous communities 
in and around our operations.

Highlights of the year
Vedanta has again shown that the 
fundamentals of our business remain 
strong. We have a diversified portfolio 
of assets that have cost-efficient 
operations, are highly productive, and 
have generated strong free cash flows of 
US$1.6 billion after capital expenditure 
on sustaining and expansion projects.

10

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report10 years of 
delivery

2

1

Maintained progressive dividends
(US¢/share)

55.0

52.5

41.5

41.5

45.0

35.0

61.0

58.0

14%

CAGR since IPO

16.5 17.05

20.0

“My vision at flotation was 
to deliver the potential  
of India’s resources to 
investors, within the 
comfort of a London 
Market listing.”

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

2013 2014

Share price

902p

^131%
2.2x

390p

At IPO

End FY2014

3

200%

Total shareholder return 
(12%CAGR)

$1.4bn

Capital returned to 
shareholders (since IPO)

$15bn

Contribution to exchequer 
(last three years)

$134m

Social investment in communities  
(last three years)

“We have delivered results not only for  
our shareholders but also created many 
thousands of jobs, supporting our 
employees with housing, education and 
healthcare, and made a vital difference  
to communities across India and Africa.”

1
Night view of Tuticorin 
smelting complex, 
Sesa Sterlite.

2
Engineers at iron ore 
operations, Sesa Sterlite.

3
Engineers reviewing plans at 
aluminium smelter, BALCO.

11

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY20141

Vedanta – Strong market positioning in India
(FY2014 India Market Shares1)

89%

49%

48%

29%

5%

Zinc

Lead

Silver

Copper Aluminium

1   Based on domestic consumption.
˜ Vedanta  ˜ Other producers  ˜ Imports

5%

Oil

1
Vocational training for women at self help groups, HZL.

A partner in 
the growth 
of India

“India is blessed with 
abundant natural 
resources and I believe 
Vedanta has an important 
role to play in unlocking 
the potential of those 
resources as a partner in 
India’s future growth.”

Shared geology and mineral 
potential with Africa & Australia 
and abundant natural resources

India’s global ranking 
(based on Reserves)

2

6th Zinc (R&R)

5th Coal (R&R)

295bn tonnes
50mn tonnes
29bn tonnes
3.5bn tonnes

7th Iron Ore (R&R)

8th bauxite (R&R)

“My vision for the future is to 
continue to fulfil Vedanta’s 
potential whilst helping to 
advance the world’s largest 
democratic developing 
nation economically, socially 
and sustainably.”

2
Engineers at iron ore operations, Sesa Sterlite.

Low per capita consumption
(Metals – CY2013 per capita consumption in kg;
Oil – CY2012 per capita consumption in barrels)

15.4

7.2

6.6

1.5

3.5

0.4

Total estimated reserves & resources based upon 
public sources including GSI, GOI, Wood Mackenzie, 
UNFC and IBM.

Aluminium

Copper

 India

 World

 China

12

Wood Mackenzie, BP Statistical Report, Global Insight, Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, IBIS, 
Aluminium Association of India, ILZDA, company sources. 

4.2

4.6

2.7

1.0

Oil

0.5

1.9

Zinc

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report 
 
Chairman’s statement continued

Delivering against our strategy
As well as producing satisfactory results, we 
remained focused on our core strategy.

It was a year when we eased back on 
capital expenditure and concentrated on 
production. Despite inflationary pressures, 
we succeeded in controlling our costs; in 
aluminium, for example, we rank in the 
second quartile, even ahead of many others 
who enjoy the advantage of captive bauxite.

We continued to reduce net debt 
which now stands 8% down at 
US$7.9 billion, and generated strong 
free cash flow of US$3.0 billion.

I was also pleased to see further progress on 
our goal to discover more than we mine out. 
During the year we delivered a 100% reserve 
replacement at Oil & Gas and Zinc India.

In addition, we responded to an often-
received feedback from shareholders for 
a simpler group structure by completing 
the Sesa Sterlite merger during the year, 
which has eliminated cross-holdings, 
better aligns cash flow generation 
and debt across the Group structure 
and delivers valuable synergies.

  p22 Read more about our strategy

Sustainability
I have always felt deeply that it is our 
employees who drive our success. It has 
therefore been a priority that they have 
been able to grow with us, both financially 
and personally, and that we contribute to 
their well-being and development. We’ve 
developed incentive plans to broaden 
share ownership among our middle 
and senior management, so they also 
become shareholders of our Company.

However, even growth is a secondary 
consideration compared to the need to work 
safely and to minimise our impact on the 
environment. We were deeply saddened 
by the 19 fatalities that occurred during 
the year and both our incoming CEO and I 
are determined to address this as we make 
personal safety an absolute priority. 

It was good to see a reduction of 37% in lost 
time incidents over the last four years, and 
74% of non-hazardous waste being recycled 
during the year which shows an encouraging 
progress. Over the past year, I have been 
particularly pleased with the success our 
businesses’ have had in implementing our 
Sustainability Framework underpinned by 
our successful Scott Wilson audit and the 
insights we have gained from this exercise.

“Vedanta is well positioned 
to supply to India’s need 
for commodities while 
operating at international 
standards of sustainable 
development.”

Outlook
India’s per capita consumption of 
commodities is expected to rise consistently 
and strongly over the next two–three 
decades with favourable demographics 
and growing urbanisation, and as a large 
and responsible corporation, Vedanta is 
well positioned to supply India’s need for 
commodities while operating at international 
standards of sustainable development. 
FY2013–14 has been a year of building 
momentum in the right direction, and I 
see it as a powerful springboard for the 
year ahead as we build on the significant 
headway achieved in production ramp-
ups, cost controls, regulatory clearances 
and sustainability. We remain focused on 
our stated strategic priorities of ramping 
up production across our portfolio and 
to deleverage the balance sheet.

Anil Agarwal
Chairman
15 May 2014

Out in our communities, we continued 
to expand our support programmes. 
We have seven discrete focus areas: 
health, education, sustainable livelihoods, 
women empowerment, community 
asset creation, bio-investment and 
integrated village development. During 
the year we spent US$49 million, 
benefiting over 4.1 million people.

  p24 Read more about sustainability

Governance
At the close of the year our CEO of five years 
MS Mehta took well-earned retirement. I 
wish to place on record my thanks to him; 
he joined us around 14 years ago and led 
various operations across the Group. His 
insight and leadership have been pivotal 
to our success over this first decade and 
he departs with our warmest wishes.

We are also delighted to have secured a 
replacement of the calibre of Tom Albanese, 
who took up the reins as our new CEO on 1 
April 2014. Tom brings with him a lifetime’s 
experience in resource mining and operations 
and will add considerable value as we meet 
the opportunities and challenges ahead.

During the year, Deepak Parekh, the 
non-executive Chairman of the Housing 
Development Finance Corporation (‘HDFC’) 
Limited, India’s premier housing finance 
company, joined the Vedanta Board as an 
independent Non-Executive Director. I would 
also like to thank Naresh Chandra who retired 
from the Board following the conclusion of 
the 2013 Annual General Meeting having 
served nearly nine years on the Board.

  p80 Read more about governance

13

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Incoming Chief Executive 
Officer’s statement

Tom Albanese became our new Chief Executive Officer 
on 1 April 2014. Here he gives his initial impressions of 
the Company and outlines his first priorities.

Our people
What I have found is a very effective 
management team and a professional and 
committed workforce, and I express my 
thanks to the outgoing CEO of the Group, 
Mr MS Mehta and the outgoing CEOs of the 
Iron Ore division, Mr PK Mukherjee, and Oil 
& Gas division, Mr P Elango, whose efforts to 
build these teams have been commendable.

There are some gaps which we need 
to fill, such as boosting underground 
mining expertise, but the organisation 
is staffed by highly capable teams. It is 
clear to me we have commercial acumen 
in depth, as well as a proven process 
engineering capability and a tremendous 
culture of leadership development.

We will be building on our teams in the 
coming year, benefiting from strong internal 
talent and complementing it with fresh 
perspectives from external hires. On that 
note I am delighted that we have hired a new 
CEO at our KCM business and a new head of 
Corporate Communications and Corporate 
Social Responsibility who is taking up this 
role with a strong emphasis on CSR; an area 
where I think we can present ourselves better.

  p29 Read more about our people

Our assets
My tour of the assets confirmed to me 
that we have much to be proud about. 
The Company’s ethos of keeping a firm 
control on costs is clearly translated into 
action on the ground, with our largest 
businesses ranking in the lowest cost 
quartile of the global cost curve.

I have also been struck by the world class 
quality of resources and resource potential. 
In particular, four assets come to mind. Our 
prolific onshore Rajasthan oil and gas block; 
the Zinc India assets, also in Rajasthan, with 
the largest zinc-lead mine in the world; our 
low-cost iron ore mines in Goa; and, with 
some operational improvements, the long 
life potential of the high-grade copper assets 
at Konkola Copper Mines (‘KCM’) in Zambia.

These are just four examples in a very 
exciting landscape. As a resources 
explorer, I know that this sector and 
our organisation can play a vital role 
in India’s growth and prosperity. 

Taking the helm of a world class 
business is an honour, and I am 
especially excited to be leading a 
diversified resources company like 
Vedanta with a large presence in 
India, a country where I see the 
potential for significant demand 
growth and the opportunity to 
develop and harness natural 
resources to meet this surge 
in demand.

India has long held a fascination for me. It is 
endowed with a vast and largely untapped 
potential in natural resources, and it is also 
a country of fast-growing aspirations. It is 
home to over a billion people driving demand 
for consumer durables, transportation, 
telecommunications and new infrastructure.

Just prior to taking up the role, I spent six 
months as Chairman of Vedanta Resources 
Holdings Limited, that operates as a 
subsidiary of Vedanta Resources plc and 
the holding company for the operating 
companies, which gave me an opportunity to 
know the Company well, visit the operations 
and chair several monthly Executive 
Committee meetings going through detailed 
reviews of business performance. I visited 
almost every asset and spent a lot of time 
underground which left me as energised 
as my first mining job more than 30 years 
ago. I wanted the opportunity to look and 
learn, engage with the workforce and gain 
a well-informed first-hand impression.

14

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportAt the heart of this longevity is Corporate 
Social Responsibility in its fullest sense: 
a commitment to engage with local 
communities; to safeguard the wellbeing 
of the workforce; and to minimise 
wherever possible the impact made on the 
environment. Indeed, legislation is raising 
the bar on these issues, not just in India but 
around the world. While Vedanta meets 
or exceeds regulatory requirements, I am 
focused on raising standards further.

One of the first locations I visited was 
Lanjigarh, where we have ambitions to 
ramp-up the refinery to a capacity of 5mt of 
alumina. However, the bauxite for this is to be 
supplied by the State Government as per our 
existing Memorandum of Understanding. On 
behalf of Vedanta, I reiterate that we will not 
consider developing any bauxite resources 
including the Niyamgiri mines, without 
the consent of the local communities.

Regarding our employees, we are conducting 
a gap analysis to ensure our compliance 
with the UN Principles of Human Rights. 
I am also introducing two non-negotiables: 
the radical improvement in safety I 
mentioned above, and a reinforcement of 
the strong principles already in place here 
surrounding compliance, integrity and 
ethics. Our performance in both these areas 
will be led by a strong tone from the top.

So as I set to work in my first year as CEO, 
I’m very excited about the potential ahead. 
We have the people and the assets and 
I look forward to setting a stage that will 
enable even greater performances ahead.

We are all here for the purpose of adding 
value, for our shareholders, our employees, 
and all stakeholders. Over the past 10 years 
the Company has created tremendous value 
for all three, and I am committed to continue 
to do this in the future, and take Vedanta to 
the next level of performance in all aspects.

Tom Albanese
Chief Executive Officer
15 May 2014

It will be part of my remit to engage 
with policymakers to help in harnessing 
India’s resource potential and thereby 
create growth and employment.

Immediate operating priorities
In the near term, I see a number of 
key operating priorities and these will 
receive immediate focus. They are:
•  To ramp up aluminium production and 

obtain access to bauxite.

•  To resume iron ore mining operations 

at Goa.

•  To improve the business at KCM.

I will also focus on driving further the already 
successful businesses, and this will include 
maximising exploration and optimising 
production at the Rajasthan oil & gas block 
and a proper transition of the Rampura 
Agucha mine at Zinc India from open-cast 
to underground in the next few years.

Safety: zero harm
Having spent my professional life 
involved with the mining industry 
across different countries, I know first-
hand the absolute necessity to strive 
for a zero harm environment.

So although there have been some 
improvements in the Company’s lost 
time injury frequency rate metrics, I 
have communicated to the Board, the 
management team and the entire 
workforce that the fatality rates at our 
operations are wholly unacceptable.

I am therefore conducting a personal 
and thorough appraisal of our safety 
management processes, contractor 
management and compliance, and internal 
safety leadership with the clear target of 
moving towards a zero harm record.

This is not only the right thing to do by 
the workforce, but in my experience, 
the safest businesses are also the 
most capably led and efficient, with all 
the benefits that flow to employees, 
communities and shareholders alike.

Protecting our licence to operate
The most successful businesses in our sector 
have not merely gained a licence to operate; 
every day, they work to protect and maintain 
that licence. In turn, they have assets that 
don’t just last a decade but have productive 
lives that can span generations of workers.

1

2

1
Engineers at Sindesar Khurd zinc-lead mine, HZL.

2
Engineers at Skorpion integrated zinc complex, 
Zinc International.

“So as I set to work in my  
first year as CEO, I’m very 
excited about the potential 
ahead. We have the people 
and the assets and I look 
forward to setting a stage 
that will enable even greater 
performances ahead.”

15

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Open forum

Anil Agarwal and Tom Albanese 
answer some frequently asked questions 
concerning the vision and future 
ambitions of the Company.

We are the largest private sector 
employer in Zambia though our 
productivity per employee is lower 
than local and global peers.

Our focus is ramping up mined metal 
production, which is in everyone’s interest, 
including Vedanta, our employees and the 
Zambian government, though this has 
taken more time than was anticipated 
when Vedanta embarked on sinking the 
new 1.5km deep shaft at the Konkola 
Deeps mine. With shaft sinking complete 
and facilities for loading and hoisting 
finished, we are currently working on 
primary development of the underground 
mine. We have an able team on the 
ground and have recently added several 
underground mining experts to the team.

Then there are commercial challenges 
faced by the mining industry in Zambia, 
with Value Added Taxes on inputs that 
are yet to be recovered from the Zambian 
Government and we are engaged with 
the Government for a solution.

I’m also glad to share that Steven Din 
has joined as CEO of Copper Zambia in 
May 2014. He has nearly two decades of 
experience in Africa. Steven has already 
been actively engaged in meetings with 
the Government, and I look forward to 
working closely with him as we deliver an 
operational turnaround at KCM. With these 
necessary steps to improve the business, I 
can foresee 50 years of successful copper 
mining ahead of Vedanta at Copper Zambia.

Anil Agarwal: Copper Zambia is one of 
Vedanta’s most important assets and we 
are completely focused on the turnaround 
of this business as it has one of the largest 
high-grade copper mines in the world 
and has a long life ahead of it. We are 
committed to developing our resources 
in Zambia and I think we can continue 
to make a significant positive impact on 
the social and economic development of 
the region as the largest private sector 
employer in the country and one of the 
largest contributors to the economy 
through our tax and royalty payments.

Q How will the executive 
management of the Group 
change with the introduction of 
a new Chief Executive Officer?

Anil Agarwal: I am delighted to welcome 
Tom Albanese to the Vedanta Group, who 
brings extensive experience in the resources 
sector. I’m proud to say that Tom has built up 
an excellent understanding of our businesses 
over the last half year when he visited 
them and reviewed the monthly business 
performance of all businesses, and was 
actively involved in the Executive Committee.

We will work closely together to drive the 
Company forward. The Board and I will retain 
responsibility for strategic development, 
including M&A, and Tom will lead the 
businesses, driving operational excellence, 
further developing our stakeholder 
engagement and taking forward corporate 
initiatives to simplify the Group structure.

Q At Vedanta, you have two main 
subsidiaries – the publicly listed India-
based Sesa Sterlite Ltd. and Copper 
Zambia. Let’s discuss Copper Zambia 
first: You have faced some issues at 
Copper Zambia recently. What are 
your plans to address these issues 
and realise the potential of this asset?

Tom Albanese: Since joining the Vedanta 
Group six months ago, I have visited 
Zambia around six times and spent a lot 
of time on the ground, working with the 
business units, talking with our employees 
and stakeholders, including our equity 
partners, the Zambian government.

We’ve taken up several initiatives to 
improve the environment and well-being 
of local communities and more than 
half a million people are benefited by 
the various community programmes 
currently undertaken by Copper 
Zambia. We’ve improved the quality of 
water that gets pumped out from the 
underground mine, which is critical for 
irrigation and caters to the water needs 
of at least half a million Zambians.

16

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportQ Vedanta has made a large 
investment in Aluminium  
but you don’t have a captive  
source of bauxite yet and have  
faced criticism about this –  
so what are your plans now?

Anil Agarwal: The state of Odisha in 
India is a natural destination for producing 
Aluminium. India has the eighth largest 
bauxite deposits in the world and 50% 
of these are in Odisha, and nearly half 
of Odisha’s bauxite is within a radius of 
100–150km from the refinery that we 
have built. We have a Memorandum of 
Understanding with the Odisha State 
Government, through which we are assured 
supply of 150 million tonnes of bauxite for 
our processing facility, and we will continue 
to work closely with the State Government. 
From our perspective, we have made it 
clear that Vedanta will not source bauxite 
from Niyamgiri bauxite deposit without 
the consent of the local community.

Tom Albanese: One of the first operations 
I visited was the Lanjigarh alumina refinery. 
I must say that I was pleasantly surprised 
by the level of care on the ground and I 
think that the reality is much better than 
it is widely perceived. While Vedanta has 
done a commendable job in terms of 
community development near and around 
the Lanjigarh refinery, these good deeds 
have unfortunately been overshadowed by 
the controversy at Niyamgiri. We will now 
focus our attention to other resources on 
a regional basis which can be developed 
in a manner consistent with global norms 
and expectations. Even though we do not 
have sufficient captive feed currently, we 
continue to operate our Aluminium smelters 
at Jharsuguda, in Odisha, and Korba, in the 
adjoining state of Chhattisgarh, efficiently, 
producing aluminium in the lower half 
of the cost curve, despite the higher cost 
of purchased bauxite and alumina.

Q Court Orders to restart iron ore 
mining in the states of Karnataka 
and Goa have been issued after 
long periods of mining bans 
in both these states of India. 
However, it seems that not all 
issues have been resolved. What is 
the latest and will you get back to 
production levels before the bans?

Tom Albanese: We restarted our operations 
at Karnataka in end December, and have 
been selling ore through government 
sponsored e-auctions. I see the authorisation 
to restart mining in Karnataka and 
the Supreme Court order in Goa as an 
encouraging sign, confirming that we are 
gaining momentum in the right direction. 
Our iron ore mining division has operated 
sustainably for nearly six decades, and we 
have had a strong focus on sustainable 
mining and adding more to reserves and 
resources through exploration, than what 
we mine out. We are currently working 
with the State Government of Goa and 
the Ministry of Environment and Forests 
to obtain necessary approvals to restart 
mining in Goa, and hope to start production 
after the monsoon season this year.

Overall, India has the seventh largest 
reserves of iron ore in the world and Goa as 
a region is not constrained by geology. We 
have seen geological features at our Sonshi 
mine in Goa which resemble those in the 
Pilbara in Western Australia. Besides, with 
proximity to inland waterways and port, the 
mines in Goa have a strong cost positioning.

Anil Agarwal: The issues in the State of 
Goa were driven by environmental concerns 
as mining activity increased significantly 
in response to record iron ore prices and 
access to port through inland waterways. 
As many small unorganised miners sprang 
up, the Government restricted mining 
activity across the State with an intention to 
ensure responsible mining, and this affected 
large, organised miners such as our iron 
ore operations, which has a track record of 
responsible mining for over six decades in 
the area. If you take a look at the work done 
on returning the depleted Sanquelim mine 
in Goa to its natural state, you will see a 
fully reclaimed environment where we have 
planted over 600,000 trees, and open pits 
have been converted to ponds and fisheries.

Q So, the merger of Sesa Goa and 
Sterlite Industries and consolidation 
are now complete, what are your 
plans on the Group structure

Anil Agarwal: The merger of Sesa Goa 
and Sterlite is a major step forward on 
our journey to unlock value and we are 
already seeing the benefits of that. Our key 
priority now is the purchase of the shares 
in HZL and BALCO that are held by the 
Government of India. The Government 
has taken a decision to sell their stakes 
through the auction route and the process 
is under way. An offer has been made and 
is under consideration, but the timetable 
for this is not something we can control.

Q What are your strategic priorities 
going forward and do you envisage 
any changes to strategy?

Anil Agarwal: My vision and strategy 
for the Company remains the same: to 
build and grow a diversified global natural 
resources major and Tom shares that 
vision. However, right now our primary 
objective is to deleverage from the cash 
flows that the business is generating as 
our capital intensive projects are nearing 
completion and ramping up production.

Currently, we are working on the low-risk 
projects at the high-margin businesses of 
oil & gas and zinc, which have significant 
cash generation from existing operations, 
and cash balances. As we consider future 
investment opportunities, these decisions 
will be based on rigorous capital allocation 
and we will continue to evaluate all available 
options for capital deployment. I am proud 
to reiterate that we have maintained a 
progressive dividend through the global 
financial crisis, and have delivered a total 
shareholder return of 200% since our IPO.

Tom Albanese: From my point of view, India 
will have a strong demand for commodities 
with growing urbanisation and favourable 
demographics over the next 20–30 years, 
current low levels of per capita consumption, 
and a robust democracy. India has abundant 
geological resources and the potential 
to build a world class natural resources 
industry that not only provides energy and 
raw material security to the country, but 
also creates considerable employment and 
economic activity. As the largest diversified 
natural resources company in India, Vedanta 
is at the forefront of this opportunity.

“My vision and strategy for the Company 
remains the same: to build and grow a 
diversified global natural resources major 
and Tom shares that vision.”

17

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Market overview

Emerging markets continue to 
be the key drivers of growth.

Overview
In an environment of volatile commodity 
prices, as one of the largest diversified 
resource producers globally and with 
a portfolio of Tier-1 assets, Vedanta 
is well-positioned to navigate the 
prevailing economic conditions.

Global economy
In 2013, worldwide economic growth 
was stable at 3.0%, just slightly lower 
than the 3.1% recorded in 2012. The 
slow-down in China during the early 
part of the year contributed to a lower 
emerging markets growth rate of 4.7%, 
while developed economies recorded a 
1.3% rise. There were more encouraging 
signs in the second half of the year as 
global economic growth rebounded.

The world economy is expected to 
strengthen in 2014, with growth expected 
to rise to 3.7%, closer to its historical 
average. Despite concerns about the 
Federal Reserve tapering its asset purchase 
programme, monetary policies across the 
world continue to be expansionary and 
are expected to drive growth in advanced 
economies up to 2.2%, increasing demand 
that in turn could support a higher 
emerging market growth rate of 5.1%.

Indian economy
India’s growth is still one of the highest in the 
world, although it slowed to 4.6% in 2013, its 
second lowest in a decade averaging around 
7.5% annual growth. With general elections 
in May 2014, and a rising awareness 
across the country for the need to improve 
governance and align regulatory policies to 
support economic activity, India’s growth is 
expected to pick up in the coming years.

Against this backdrop, the GoI realises the 
importance of boosting domestic production 
of crude oil to bridge the widening gap 
between demand and domestic supply, 
and has recently announced policy 
decisions such as the Integrated Block 
Development approach, and the permission 
to undertake exploration in areas that 
have started development or operations 
under Production Sharing Contracts.

India has abundant natural resources 
that are yet to be sufficiently explored, 
developed and tapped. India’s reserves of 
iron ore, bauxite, zinc and coal rank among 
the largest in the world. The introduction of 
new regulations, including the new Mining 
and Minerals bill, and a general focus on 
regulatory policies to support economic 
activity is expected to encourage and 
accelerate private sector investment and 
drive the development of the industry.

Commodities
Over the last year, slowing emerging 
market growth dampened demand for 
base metals and depressed prices, while 
crude oil prices remained relatively resilient. 
Mining companies have responded by 
focusing on cost improvements and 
productivity initiatives rather than growth, 
to bring supply in line with demand.

Strong global growth, improving export 
competitiveness with a weaker rupee and 
a confidence boost from recent policy 
actions are expected to contribute to a 
modest rise in India’s economic growth 
to 5.4% in 2014, with the potential to 
recover to 6.8% in the medium term if 
structural reforms are implemented to 
accelerate investment projects that improve 
infrastructure and to bring persistent 
high inflation levels under control.

Investment in infrastructure for 
transportation, housing and power will 
continue to drive demand for aluminium, 
zinc, copper and iron ore in India fuelled by 
a rising working age population, increasing 
per capita income, and a growing middle 
class, combined with ongoing urbanisation.

While India has large refining facilities, 
it is highly dependent on imports of 
crude oil with an inevitable impact on 
the country’s trade balance and current 
account. In addition, increased oil prices 
are not passed on to the consumers, 
resulting in an increasing subsidy burden 
to the Government of India (‘GoI’) and 
a negative impact on the fiscal deficit.

18

Sources: World Economic Outlook update January 2014, 
International Monetary Fund, Wrod Mackenzie, Ministry of 
Petroleum and Natural Gas.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportCopper 
Aluminium 
Zinc 
Lead 
Silver (TOz)
Iron Ore (63 Fe Grade)
Crude per bbl

(in US$/MT)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change 

7,103
1,773
1,909
2,092
21
115
108

7,853
1,974
1,948
2,113
31
120
110

(9.5)
(10.2)
(2.0)
(1.0)
(29.8)
(4.1)
(2.3)

Source: London Metal Exchange, The London Bullion Market Association, Mysteel Iron Ore Index, Bloomberg.

Zinc
Although prices were under pressure in 
2013, a declining global supply is likely to 
fall short of demand in the medium term 
and prices are expected to strengthen as 
inventories reduce. End demand in India 
remains strong with the galvanizing sector, 
which is the largest consumer, delivering 
strong growth and this momentum is likely 
to continue as the country’s investment 
in infrastructure drives demand.

Lead
Tougher environmental regulation and 
supply shortages characterised the global 
lead market even as demand was affected 
by a slow recovery in vehicle production 
and the emergence of alternative battery 
technologies. Overall, the global lead market 
is expected to continue to grow driven by 
developing economies, including India 
where domestic demand has been strong.

Copper
Global supply marginally exceeded 
consumption in the year, with the ramp 
up in production from the new mines in 
Africa and Mongolia and good production 
in Chile and Peru. Whilst demand for 
copper in India was stable during the 
year, demand is expected to rise driven 
by investment in infrastructure projects, 
the development of power generation 
capacity and continued urbanisation.

Aluminium
Prices declined during the year as stocks 
were high and supply growth matched 
consumption with the exception of China 
where growth was exceptionally strong 
at 12%. However, lower LME prices were 
offset by higher physical premiums as large 
inventories remain blocked in warehouses 
driven by financing deals. Looking forward, 
primary aluminium demand is expected to 
rise, supported by the transport sector and 
metal substitutions in favour of aluminium. 
Lack of demand in the electrical sector 
in India led to a fall in consumption but 
both supply and demand are forecast to 
recover in 2015 as demand in the electrical 
sector recovers, boosted by investment 
in infrastructure and transport.

Iron Ore
Consumption of steel in China continued 
to drive growth in world steel demand with 
prices rising during the year, despite credit 
restrictions in China dampening demand 
in the latter half of the year. The increased 
availability of supply from new mines in 
2015 is expected to curtail further price rises. 
Indian steel consumption is also forecast 
to rise as a result of government spending 
on infrastructure and higher consumption 
of consumer durables. However, iron ore 
prices in the domestic market are expected 
to remain soft due to the impact of export 
restrictions and duties on domestic pricing.

Oil & Gas
Whilst demand for oil increased, led by 
China, global prices remained moderate as 
the US shale revolution boosted production 
in North America. Prices are expected to 
stabilise going forward as global economic 
growth recovers. Demand in India 
continued to rise, with imports continuing 
to meet more than 70% of demand even 
as Cairn India‘s contribution to India’s 
domestic crude oil production increased 
from 26% in FY2013 to 28% in FY2014.

Long-term outlook
The long-term outlook for the sector remains 
positive as the structural economic trends 
of population growth and urbanisation 
in emerging economies are expected to 
continue driving demand for commodities 
for construction and infrastructure, and for 
consumer goods as the income of growing 
middle classes in these economies rises. 
Consequently, power sale prices are also 
expected to increase in the coming year.

Vedanta’s market position
As the leading natural resources provider 
in India, Vedanta is well-positioned to 
respond to the growing demand for raw 
materials with strategically located, high 
quality assets, and scalable capacities.

Close proximity to growing Asian markets 
and cost positions in the lowest quartile 
or lower half of the global cost curve, put 
Vedanta in a strong competitive position to 
take advantage of the opportunities in both 
India as well as other emerging markets.

19

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Business model

Delivering value to all stakeholders.

What we do and how we add value
Vedanta operates across the value chain, undertaking 
exploration, asset development, extraction, 
processing and value addition with a primary 
focus on upstream operations. We capitalise on 
our strategic capabilities to create value for all our 
stakeholders: our shareholders; our employees; our 
customers and the communities where we operate.

We focus on maximising returns from our long-life, 
low cost, scalable assets where we are now delivering 
strong free cash flows from a well-invested asset base.

We are committed to the highest standards of 
sustainable development in all aspects of our 
business with a well-developed sustainability 
framework underpinning everything that we do.

Vedanta’s economic contribution (US$m)

6

5

1

4

Revenue
US$12,945m

3

1  Employee costs
2  Operating costs 

2

(excluding payments to 
the exchequer)

3  Payments to exchequer
4  Payments to providers 
  of capital
5  Community investments 
(including donations)
6  Economical value retained

20

Strategic capabilities

Natural resources

People and skills

We have a diverse portfolio of Tier 1 
assets with the majority of resources 
in the lowest quartile or lower half of 
the global cost curve. We continue to 
extend the life of our assets organically 
by investing in brown field exploration 
and acquisition of large, proven assets.

We have a workforce of over 87,000 
people, comprising over 25,000 direct 
employees and 59,500 contractors. 
This includes skilled geologists, mining 
engineers, technicians and other 
business professionals. We are one 
of the largest employer of mining 
engineers in India, and the largest 
private sector employer in Zambia.

Technical innovation We drive productivity growth by 

concentrating on continuous improvement 
in mine development at mines and 
metal recovery at our processing plants. 
Our focus on operational excellence has 
enabled us to maintain our position as 
a low cost producer despite industry-
wide cost inflation pressures.

Financial capital

Vedanta has a strong financial profile 
and access to global sources of equity 
and debt capital. Vedanta has a track 
record of successfully raising capital, with 
over US$29 billion raised from equity and 
debt markets in the past decade, and has 
a robust strategy for capital allocation.

Project expertise

We have built projects at benchmark 
capex and have a track record of 
successfully delivering projects. 

Relationships and 
partnerships
Governments
Communities
Employees
Suppliers
Customers
Shareholders

Sustainability is at the core of our 
operations, and the key to preserve 
and sustain our licence to operate. 
We have strong relationships with our 
key stakeholders, creating dialogue 
to understand their needs and work 
with them proactively to add and 
share value, through industry forums, 
local community organisations, 
government bodies and employee 
unions. Over 4.1 million people across 
local communities are benefited through 
our various activities across business.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report 
 
 
ZLS O&G Fe

Cu

Al

Pwr

Value chain

High value outputs

Exploration
We focus on extending the life of our mines 
and oilfields through focused exploration, 
aimed at increasing our Reserve and 
Resources (‘R&R’) base over and above 
what we extract each year. We prefer to 
explore brown field opportunities across 
our current asset base, and a few select, 
large scale, low-cost, green field sites.

Asset development
We develop our resource base to optimise 
both production and the life of the resource. 
We also develop processing facilities that are 
strategically located close to our resources to 
optimise our costs and access to markets. As 
mines reach the end of their lives, we work 
to remediate and rehabilitate them back 
to their original natural characteristics.

Extraction
Our operations are focused on mining 
metals and bulks and extracting. We 
operate mines in India, Africa, Australia 
and Ireland, extracting zinc, lead, silver, iron 
ore, bauxite and copper. We produce oil & 
gas from three operating blocks in India.

Processing
In line with our integrated value chain, we 
produce refined metals by processing and 
smelting the ore that we extract out. We 
have smelters and other processing facilities 
in India and Africa. We generate our own 
power for most of our operations, selling any 
surplus. We also sell power generated by our 
independent power plants and wind farms.

Value addition
While we are primarily upstream, we 
selectively add value by converting some 
of our primary metal products into higher 
margin products such as sheets, rods, bars 
rolled products at our zinc, aluminium 
and copper businesses, depending on 
the profitability of adding value and the 
customer demand for these products.

Natural resources

People and skills

Governments

Society

Customers

Shareholders

Our diversified portfolio produces high 
quality metals and minerals, LME-
branded refined metals, and Oil & Gas, 
delivering industry leading EBITDA 
margins of over 40% (excluding custom 
smelting). Our business activities are 
underpinned by a well-established 
sustainability framework to minimise 
our environmental footprint. 

We invest in developing our workforce 
delivering over 1.1 million hours of 
training, including over 81,000 hours of 
health and safety training. We attract 
and retain talented employees through 
management training and development 
programmes supported by specific 
initiatives to encourage gender diversity.

We are a substantial contributor to the 
economies where we operate, both as 
an employer and a tax payer. We paid a 
total of US$5.3 billion in taxes and levies 
across the Group in the FY2013–14.

We make an economic and social 
contribution to the communities 
where we operate, investing US$49.0 
million in FY2013–14 in building 
hospitals, schools and infrastructure 
and providing community programmes 
for around 4.1 million people. 

We deliver high quality raw materials for 
our customers in line with international 
standards for quality, settlement terms 
and delivery dates. We operate more 
than 25% of India’s oil production and 
contribute to the nation’s energy security. 
India has a deficit power market and we 
are a large generator of power in India.

We have a progressive dividend policy 
and have returned US$1.4 billion in 
dividends to shareholders since the 
IPO in 2004. We delivered a total 
shareholder return of 200% since the 
Vedanta listing in London in FY2004.

21

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Progress against 
strategic priorities

To drive our strategy forward, we 
have set five strategic priorities 
and this table summarises our 
progress against these priorities. 
More detail is covered in the 
Financial Review on pages 40 
to 47, the Operational Reviews 
for each commodity on pages 
48 to 75 and the Sustainability 
Review on pages 24 to 29.

Strategic framework

Vision

To be a world class, diversified resources 
company providing superior returns to our 
shareholders, with high quality assets, low-cost 
operations and sustainable development.

Strategy

Growth 

To deliver growth, 
long-term value and 
sustainable development 
through our diversified 
portfolio of large, long-life, 
low-cost assets.

We focus primarily on growing our assets 
organically by growing our resource 
base and investing to expand our 
capacity and increase our production 
volumes, complemented with selective 
acquisitions where we can use our 
strategic capabilities to add significant 
value to large, proven assets.

Long-term value 

We aim to be a low-cost operator across 
all our businesses, optimising our cost 
and operational performance through 
a culture of continuous improvement. 
We maintain a continuous focus on 
exploration to ensure we are adding to 
our reserves and resources at a faster 
rate than we are depleting them. We 
seek to drive synergies from integrating 
the Group and consolidating and 
simplifying our group structure.

Sustainability 

We are committed to providing a 
safe, secure and healthy workplace 
for our employees by optimising our 
consumption and minimising our 
environmental footprint. We aim to 
forge strong relationships with all our 
key stakeholders and to contribute to 
the development of our employees and 
of the communities where we operate.

22

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportStrategic priorities 

What we said we would do

What we have done

Objectives for 2015 and beyond

1

Production growth across portfolio with a focus on returns

•  Disciplined capital allocation: low 
risk and phased development.
•  Sustained operational excellence 

•  Achieve growth to 1.2mtpa mined 

zinc lead metal by FY2017.
•  Achieve exit production rate of 

and cost efficiencies.
•  Active engagements 
with Governments.

200k–215kboepd of Oil & Gas at 
Rajasthan.

•  Feasibility study of Gamsberg.
•  Ramp up of mine development at 
Konkola to realise its full potential.

•  Phased development of the 

Liberia mining project.

•  Continue focus on securing 

bauxite and coal.

•  Commercial production from the 
Rampura Agucha and Kayad 
mines, but slower than expected 
ramp-up of underground mining.
•  Achieved 200k boepd of Oil & Gas 

production in March 2014 at 
Rajasthan.

•  51,500 metres of exploration 
drilling conducted confirming 
positive results of R&R in Liberia. 
Evaluating logistics actions for 
project.

•  Feasibility study of Gamsberg 

underway. Evaluating technical 
options.

•  Konkola Deeps slower than 

expected following the bottom 
shaft loading being completed.

•  Pursuing multiple options for 
bauxite sourcing with Odisha 
Government.

•  Commence and stabilise 

production from aluminium and 
power assets.

•  Commence production from 

BALCO Coal Block.

•  Resume iron ore operations 

at Goa.

•  Ramp up volumes at KCM and 
focus on underground mine 
development.

•  Continue focus on securing coal 

and bauxite.

•  Provide a safe way to resume  
copper mining operations at 
Australia.

•  Increase silver production.
•  Work towards transitioning open 

pits to underground mining at Zinc 
India, and taking the mined metal 
capacity to 1.2mtpa of zinc-lead 
metal by FY2017.

•  Ramp-up production at the 
Rajasthan Oil & Gas fields. 

2

Reduce gearing from increasing fee cash flow

•  Production ramp-up from 

well-invested assets.

•  Generate positive free cash flow 

•  Deleverage balance sheet with 
increase in free cash flow after 
project capex.

from all businesses.

•  Utilise cash flows to deleverage 

balance sheet.

•  Deleverage balance sheet with 
increase in free cash flow after 
project capex.

•  Increased production of Oil & Gas, 
zinc, lead and silver at Zinc India 
and improved performance at 
Aluminium but lower production 
at Copper Zambia and Zinc 
International.

•  Free cash flow after growth capex 

of US$1.6 billion.

•  Net debt reduced by US$2.1 billion 

over last two financial years.

3

Continue to add R&R to our existing portfolio of assets to drive long-term value

•  Development and exploration  
on track to realise Rajasthan  
basin potential.

•  Continued focus to more than 

replace production.

•  Exploration to achieve basin 
potential of 300kboepd in 
Rajasthan.

•  Achieved 100% reserve 

replacement ratio at Oil & Gas and 
Zinc India.

•  Achieve reserve replacement ratio 
of 150% in next three years at 
Rajasthan Oil & Gas.

•  Continued focus on exploration at 

all our mines.

4

Consolidation and simplification of Group structure

•  Sesa Sterlite merger
•  Buyouts of GOI’s stake in JZL and 

•  Realise full synergies of Sesa 

Sterlite merger.

BALCO.

•  Pursue buyout of GoI stake in HZL 

and BALCO.

•  Merger completed.
•  Indian Cabinet of ministers has 
approved the stake sale of HZL 
and BALCO through auction route. 
Vedanta shareholder approval 
taken. 

•  Realise synergies of Sesa Sterlite 

merger.

•  Pursue buyout, subject to 

Government auctioning the stake.

5

Protect and preserve our licence to operate

•  Continued focus on eliminating 

fatalities.

•  Stakeholder engagement.

•  Reduce LTIFR (‘Lost Time Injury 
Frequency Rate’) to 0.7 by 2014 
and 0.5 by 2015.

•  LTIFR reduced to 0.54 (operation 

and projects) and 0.68 (operations 
only).

•  All sites to upgrade Stakeholder 

•  All Scott Wilson recommendations 

Engagement Plans (‘SEPs’) as per 
Sustainability Framework.

•  Implementation of all 29 Scott 

Wilson recommendations.

•  Continue structured community 

development programmes.

implemented.

•  All major sites upgraded their 
existing SEPs, implementation 
in progress.

•  US$49 million contributed to 
community development, 
benefiting 4.1 million people.

•  Focus on eliminating fatalities.
•  Target to reduce LTIFR (operations 

& projects) to 0.51.

•  All sites to review their needs and 
impact assessments and SEPs by 
2015–16.

•  Ensuring 100% coverage of 
Human Rights and Code of 
Conduct training for all new hires.

•  Structured community 

development programmes 
to continue.

23

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Sustainability report 

Sustainability is an ongoing journey for any business. 
This anniversary provides us an opportunity to reflect 
the journey of growth and delivery we have been on 
and how we have integrated sustainable working 
across our businesses.

1

Key highlights

•  All Scott Wilson recommendations 

implemented

•  37% reduction in LTIFR in last  

four years

•  59% of employees received  

Code of Conduct and Human 
Rights training

•  US$49.0 million contributed to 
community development, 
benefiting 4.1 million people
•  Reduction in Category four  

and five environment spillages

•  US$5.3 billion paid in taxes  

and royalties

More details are included in our Sustainable 
Development Report 

www.vedantaresources.com/Sustainable 
Development2013-14

Sustainability Model

Value will help us  
to enable a license 
to operate

Responsible  
Stewardship

Long-term  
sustainability

Responsible governance  
supports relationship 

building

Adding and  
Sharing Value

Building Strong 
Relationships

Relationships enable us to contribute  
to wider society

Over the past decade, Vedanta  
has been on a journey to deliver 
high-quality assets and low-cost 
operations, with sustainable 
development underpinning all our 
activities. The development of our 
Sustainability Framework over the 
last few years provides us with a 
robust structure to deliver this 
supported by our three sustainability 
pillars – Responsible Stewardship, 
Building Strong Relationships and 
Adding and Sharing Value. This 
approach also enables us to drive 
consistency across all our subsidiary 
companies and during the year  
we have further embedded the 
standards and processes required 
to achieve this.

24

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report“Our success is bound to 
ensuring that we operate  
in the safest manner, 
protecting our workforce 
and surrounding 
communities, and engaging 
with these communities in  
a way that builds trust and 
delivers sustainable benefits.”

Responsible stewardship
This encapsulates our approach to managing 
our risks and how we conduct our business 
ethically. It also guides us in ensuring the 
health and safety of our workforce and how 
we minimise our environmental footprint.

Building strong relationships
We work hard to engage with our 
stakeholders to understand their key 
concerns and expectations of our business. 
Proactive engagement also enables us 
to identify opportunities and mitigate 
risks by understanding and responding 
to issues rather than reacting to them.

Adding and sharing value
We believe our role is to create value for 
all our stakeholders; not just through 
the financial value we create for our 
shareholders but the non-financial value 
we add to society. As a business we make 
a considerable economic impact through 
employment, payment of taxes and royalties 
and building local infrastructure such as 
roads, schools and healthcare centres.

Implementing our sustainability 
framework
Our Framework provides clear, structured 
guidance to all of our subsidiary businesses 
to manage their business sustainably. 
It is comprised of a full set of policies, 
technical and management standards 
and supporting guidance notes aligned 
to international standards including 
International Finance Corporation 
(‘IFC’), ICMM and OECD guidelines.

Over the last two years we have further 
embedded the Sustainability Framework and 
implemented its practices and standards. To 
date more than 9,000 employees have been 
trained on our Sustainability Framework. 
This year, we continued providing training 
to our management teams to ensure 
there was a solid understanding of the 
Framework’s requirements. We cascaded 
information down to our businesses, 
providing on-site training to managers to 
ensure compliance by their teams. Now all 
our new projects are implemented as per 
our Sustainability Framework guidelines.

Vedanta sustainability assurance 
program (‘VSAP’)
We are using our Sustainability Assurance 
Program – VSAP – as our assurance tool to 
assess the compliance of all our businesses 
with the Framework and identify where 
gaps exist and how to bridge those gaps. 
The assurance model has 16 modules, 
which cover environment, health, safety etc, 
human rights and community elements. The 
assurance system works on the premise of 
tracking corrective and preventive action by 
our subsidiaries and undertaking periodic 
formal audits by the corporate sustainability 
team, supported by external experts.

Materiality
This year we undertook a more rigorous 
materiality exercise in which external 
stakeholders and the Vedanta Management 
team (internal stakeholders) were invited, 
through a variety of engagements, to 
discuss the issues which were of more 
material concern to them. This has focused 
our reporting on what matters most to 
the people concerned with Vedanta and 
is a key element in the development 
of our approach to sustainability.

These engagements enabled us to identify 
the priorities and expectations of our 
stakeholders and our management. We 
have translated these priorities into material 
business issues and mapped them onto 
the materiality matrix published in our 
Sustainable Development Report 2013–14.

2

3

1
Engineers at aluminium smelting complex, BALCO.

2
Computer education programme for children, HZL.

3
Tree plantation, KCM.

More details are included in our Sustainable 
Development Report 

www.vedantaresources.com/Sustainable 
Development2013-14

25

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014to embed a zero harm culture, with targeted 
programmes for our high-risk operations. Our 
approach begins with hazard identification 
and risk assessment. Management systems 
are designed to identify and remove 
unsafe conditions, train our people in safe 
practices and ensure correct behaviour 
through management leadership.

We have identified six Key Focus Safety 
Areas (these are covered in detail in our 
Sustainable Development report) and 
have rolled out targeted programmes to 
directly address those risks. The areas were 
identified on the basis that approximately 
75% of incidents causing lost time due 
to injury or fatalities fell within them.

We are guided by internationally recognised 
standards on health and safety. All our 
subsidiary businesses are obliged to ensure 
that their safety management programmes 
meet the requirements of the Sustainability 
Framework which incorporates guidance 
from the International Finance Corporation’s 
Performance Standards (‘IFC’) and other 
relevant international standards. In addition, 
44 out of 52 sites are OHSAS 18001 certified.

Environment
Environmental management forms a key 
component of our Sustainability Framework 
and is applied to the entire lifecycle of all 
our operations with processes mapped 
against international standards, such as 
the ISO 14001 and ISO 50001. We disclose 
our environmental performance to the 
Carbon Disclosure Project, and our score 
again improved this year to achieve 82 
points and a performance grade B. This 
saw Vedanta ranked ninth among 31 FTSE 
350 companies in the materials category.

Our continuous improvement projects 
in air, water and energy management 
have made good progress, but the 
business has much more to do to 
meet our own challenging targets.

Environment management
We understand that the nature of our 
operations has implications for the 
environment in different ways – through the 
emission of particulates, wastes generated 
in mining, refining and smelting processes, 
water consumption and changes in land use.

As part of continual improvement, we plan 
to obtain ISO 14001 certifications at all 
our sites, as of now 45 of our 52 operations 
are certified, with three additional sites 
obtaining certification in 2013–14. This 
year, in total we spent US$60 million 
on environmental management.

Sustainability report continued

Responsible Stewardship guides us in ensuring the 
health and safety of our workforce and minimising 
our environmental footprint.

1
Engineers at Jharsuguda power plant, Sesa Sterlite.

1

Health and safety
The health and safety of our people remains 
a key focus and, while we have made many 
improvements in how we run our business, 
our rate of fatalities and serious injuries 
remains completely unacceptable and we 
are saddened to report 19 fatalities this 
year. Work has been done to address this 
and we will continue to improve through 
more rigorous training, forensic risk 
mitigation and constant reinforcement of 
our expectations, particularly by working 
closely with our contractors. Across our 
businesses 81,000 man hours of safety 
training have been delivered this year and 
we have seen a reduction in the injury rates 
during the year in line with the trend over 
the past five years where our Lost Time 
Injury Frequency Rate (operations and 
projects) has reduced from 0.86 to 0.54. 
Whilst working in the extractive industry 
inevitably brings with it an element of risk, 
Vedanta is committed to mitigating this 
through a careful, diligent approach to 
safety. This year we continued our journey 

Lost Time Frequency Rate 
(per million man hours)

0.86

0.83

0.55

0.54

2011

2012

2013

20141

1  From this year we are reporting LTIFR 

(operation and projects) both.

26

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportOur Energy and Carbon policy commits 
our operations to adopt and maintain 
global best practices in carbon and energy 
management and to minimise greenhouse 
gas (‘GHG’) emissions. Although reducing 
our GHG emissions is a challenge as the 
majority of our operating sites are in 
developing countries where sources of 
renewable energy are limited however 
we fully support the global campaign to 
reduce GHG emissions. The management 
plans and improvement projects are 
in place to address this challenge. We 
calculate and report Green House Gas 
Inventory i.e. Scope 1 (Process emissions 
and other direct emissions) and Scope 2 
(purchased electricity data) as defined under 
World Business Council for Sustainable 
Development (‘WBCSD’s’) and World 
Resource Institute (‘WRI’s’) GHG protocol.

Environment incidents
We strive for zero environmental incidents 
and have a robust internal process for 
managing any incident that does occur. 
During the reporting period, there was 
only one higher category (Category 4) 
environmental incident reported at HZL 
operations. The details are provided in 
the Sustainable Development Report.

Water and energy savings
Due to disruption in production at our 
Tuticorin copper smelter, CMT, Lanjigarh 
and Goa iron ore operations and further 
delay in the commencement of some 
scheduled initiatives, we could not achieved 
our targeted water and energy savings 
during the year. Further, our KCM mines 
have had to withdraw large amounts 
of underground water due to the high 
water table in the region. Excluding 
KCM, the absolute water and energy 
savings were 2.53 MCM and 1.33 GJ.

Biodiversity management plans
Progress has been made across all our 
businesses to engage experts and establish 
Biodiversity management plans (‘BMP’s’) to 
meet our FY2015-16 deadline. All our high 
priority sites like HZL, Skorpion Zinc, KCM 
and Black Mountain have either initiated the 
process or already have the BMP’s in place.

Waste management
Our mining, smelting and refinery operations 
generate significant amounts of non-
hazardous wastes and some hazardous 
wastes. The bulk is mineral waste, generated 
by the mining of ore and its processing 
and the smelting of metals. Our main 
priority is to reduce both the quantity 
and toxicity of our waste, followed by 
recovery, reuse and recycling, with disposal 
in landfill or by incineration. More detail 
on our performance in this area is covered 
in our Sustainable Development Report. 
During the year, we reused 71% of non-
hazardous waste into various use and 
achieved our target of a 5% increase in 
overall non-hazardous waste recycling rate.

Green House Gas Emissions

Unit Name 

Zinc India 
Zinc International 
Copper India/Australia 
Copper Zambia 
Aluminium 
Power 
Iron ore India 
Oil & Gas 

Total 

Scope I Emission
(tonnes of CO2 equiv.)

Scope II Emission
(tonnes of CO2 equiv.)

4,576,813
40,034
1,230,907
110,512
18,317,289
9,243,526
1,378,925
1,051,143

35,949,149

174,083
770,296
174,593
13,513
15,419
6,444
5,515
7,347

1,167,209

Performance and targets
Objectives and Targets 
2013–14

Status

Performance FY2013–14 
(Feb’13)

Health and safety
Achieve zero fatal accidents

Lost time injury frequency rate 
(‘LTIFR’) to be less than or equal to 
0.70 (operational only)

Total recordable injury frequency 
rate (‘TRIFR’) to be less than or 
equal to 1.7 (operational only)

Behaviour-based safety training 
module to be piloted at one site

Environment
Water Savings – MCM of water – 
6.12
Energy Savings – Million GJ – 2.15

Report on Scope 3 emissions 
disclosure by 2015–16

5% increase in non-hazardous 
waste recycled tonnage  against 
FY2012–13

Initiation of high risk Biodiversity 
Action Plans (BAPs) across all sites

Continue to monitor new projects 
and site closure as per the 
Sustainability Framework

Objectives and targets 
2014–15

Achieve zero fatal accidents

There have been 19 fatal 
accidents. All incidents have 
been investigated. Lessons 
learned are shared across Group 
companies to avoid recurrence

LTIFR : 0.541
LTIFR (Operation only): 0.68

LTIFR to be less than or equal to 
0.51

TRIFR : 1.551
TRIFR (Operation only): 1.94

TRIFR to be less than or equal to 
1.47

Behaviour-based safety module 
initiated at our HZL and Sesa 
Sterlite – Jharsuguda subsidiaries

Behaviour-based safety training 
module to be rolled out to other 
subsidiary businesses

Owing to disruption in production 
at our Tuticorin Copper, CMT, 
Lanjigarh and Goa iron ore 
operations and further delay in  
the commencement of some 
scheduled initiatives, the Group 
could not achieved the estimated 
water and energy savings. Further, 
our KCM mines have had to 
withdraw large amounts of 
underground water due to the high 
water table in the region. Excluding 
KCM, the absolute water and 
energy savings was 2.46 MCM and 
1.07 GJ

Subsidiary businesses 
established the systems and 
started reporting Scope 3 
emissions

Total generation (to Q3) –  
10.28 million MT

Total recycled (to Q3) –  
7.62 million MT

Total recycling rate – 74% 

Water Savings – MCM of water 
– 2.49
Energy Savings – Million GJ – 
0.83

Report on Scope 3 emissions by 
2015–16

5% increase in non-hazardous 
waste recycled tonnage  against 
FY2013–14

High risk BAPs are being initiated 
at our KCM, ZI and HZL 
subsidiaries

By 2015–16, all sites to have BAP 
in place

All new projects at KCM, HZL  
and Zinc International are being 
managed as per framework. 
Similarly, Lisheen site closure  
plan has been put in compliance 
with the framework

Continue to monitor new 
projects and site closure as per 
the Sustainability framework

  Achieved 

  In progress 

  Not achieved

1  From 2014 we require our subsidiary businesses to report on both operational and new projects LTIFR, which is a combined 

figure and target.

27

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
Sustainability report continued

Building strong relationships enables us 
to add value for all our stakeholders.

1

1
Health check-up programmes, BALCO.

Performance and targets
Objectives and targets
FY2013–14

Status

Performance FY2013–14 
(Feb’13)

Objectives and targets 
2014–15

Building Strong 
Relationships
All sites to upgrade their existing 
Stakeholder Engagement Plans 
(‘SEPs’)

Human rights training to 
be continued as part of the 
Sustainability Framework training 
calendar

All sites to develop/upgrade 
grievance management systems

All major sites upgraded their 
existing SEPs as per the 
Sustainability Framework, 
implementation in progress

Human rights and Code of 
Conduct training is now included 
as a regular part of the training 
calendar 

All major sites upgraded their 
existing Grievance management 
systems as per the Sustainability 
Framework

Implementation of SEPs to be 
monitored. All sites to review 
their needs and impact 
assessments and SEPs by 
2015–16

Ensure 100% coverage of 
human rights and code of 
conduct training for all new hires

Implementation of Grievance 
systems to be monitored

  Achieved 

  In progress 

  Not achieved

Stakeholder engagement
We engage with seven stakeholder groups 
including employees, communities, 
industry, host governments, civil societies, 
shareholders and investors. Throughout the 
year around 3,800 stakeholder engagement 
meetings took place, with community 
leaders, non-governmental organisations 
(‘NGOs’), governments and government 
bodies, academic institutions and around 
250 partnerships are now in place.

Managing and responding to our 
stakeholders
The stakeholder engagement process (‘SEP’) 
is updated as per Vedanta Sustainability 
framework and is now followed for all existing 
and new projects. In our new projects, 
such as Gergarub, Namibia and Western 
Clusters, Liberia, an extensive SEP process 
was followed. This included commissioning 
baseline studies, holding public consultation 
meetings and meetings with authorities.

Communities

Host 
governments

Employees

Vedanta

Industry

Shareholders

Civil society

Lenders

28

Community engagement
The long-term success of our business is 
dependent upon building trust with our 
host communities. All our businesses have 
implemented local community engagement 
plans, with grievance procedures in place 
so that any issues can be raised locally. 
All community incidents and grievances 
are recorded and closed appropriately.

Human rights
Our policy is aligned to the UN Guiding 
Principles on Business and Human Rights, 
and includes a ban on child or forced 
labour – either directly or through contract 
labour. Additionally, our Code of Conduct 
commits us to comply with all relevant 
laws and regulations, underpinning our 
approach to protect the fundamental rights 
of our employees and contract workforce. 
Particular attention is paid to the rights of 
indigenous people and vulnerable tribes 
and a specific management standard 
and guidance note has been rolled out to 
control how projects should address this 
issue. Human rights training is an integral 
part of our Sustainability Framework 
implementation, with around 20,000 man 
hours of training on human rights and 
Code of Conduct was given in FY2013–14. 
Further, led by the Sustainability Committee, 
we undertook internal reviews related to 
human rights and risk assessment. The 
human rights audit and risk assessment 
review was commissioned to ensure that all 
our subsidiaries have a clear understanding 
of the areas of possible risk pertaining to 
human rights. Following the assessment, it 
was recognised that whilst robust control 
systems were in place, greater visual displays 
of our Code of Conduct, policies and control 
procedures should be in place at more 
remote locations, where the risk is highest.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report 
 
Adding and sharing value with all our stakeholders is 
key to our licence to operate.

Employees 
Total Manpower (as on 31st March 2014)

Gender

Male
Female
Male
Female

Australia

102
10
199
4

315

Zambia

6,632
632
8,433
834

646
109
582
0

16,531

1,337

Namibia

Ireland

South Africa

India

Liberia

Total

332
42
18
6

398

636
90
487
84

17,050
1,446
47,759
1,501

1,297

67,756

12
0
70
15

97

25,410
2,329
57,548
2,444

87,731

Employment Category

Full time employees

Contract employees

Grand Total

Gender Breakdown

Male

Board
Senior management 

100.0%
96.9%

Total workforce

91.6%

Female

–
3.1%

8.4%

Gender based attrition rates: 

Attrition

2013–14

Male

Female

Full time employees

4.04% 0.88%

Employees
Our growth and success is dependent 
on our employees. We create a high 
performance work culture, investing in 1.1 
million training hours for all staff, averaging 
40 man hours per employee to enable 
employees to develop their potential. This 
year, we continued our spotlight on bringing 
more women in to our business, with the 
proportion of women in the business 
rising to 8.4%. Further, we have taken an 
objective of 25% women representation 
at the Vedanta Board level by 2015 
with no appointment made to date.

We also focus on recruiting from the 
communities that surround our operations to 
encourage local employment opportunities. 
Over the reporting period, the total 
percentage of senior management who 
are locally hired is: India (91%), Australia 
(100%), Zambia (59%), Namibia (Nil), 
Ireland (100%) and South Africa (40%).

We also continued with our programmes 
to recruit graduates; an essential element 
in building a strong talent pipeline for the 
future. This is augmented with our ACT-UP 
50 stars of business programme which 
identifies ‘future ready’ leaders to effectively 
transition into senior leadership positions.

Our subsidiaries companies namely BALCO, 
HZL, SSL-Iron, KCM & Zinc International sites 
have recognised unions while other locations 
have adequate systems and processes 
for employee development, appraisal, 
remuneration and grievance redressals.

Communities
We have seven discrete focus areas in 
our community programmes: health, 
education, sustainable livelihoods, women 
empowerment, community asset creation, 
bio-investment and integrated village 
development. During FY2013–14 we 
invested approximately US$49 million in 
community programmes, benefiting some 
4.1 million people. One particular campaign, 
‘Vedanta Khushi’, has focused on raising 
awareness of the needs of underprivileged 
children in India and as part of this, we have 
twinned with 112 schools in Rajasthan to 
support their renovation and 75 childcare 
centres in rural Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, 

Chattisgarh and Odisha, reaching out to 
2,500 deprived children. Further examples 
of our community programmes are covered 
in our Sustainable Development Report.

Host Governments
We contribute to the economies where 
we operate through payments to the 
Exchequer and salary payments to our 
substantial workforce, in particular in India 
and Zambia. This year, we contributed 
US$5.3 billion to host governments by way 
of taxes and royalties. Direct economic 
benefits are also generated through the 
employment of around 90,000 permanent 
employees and contractor employees, and 
through the estimated 500,000 indirect 
employment our operations generate.

More information on our work with 
other stakeholders can be found in 
our Sustainable Development Report 
at www.vedantaresources.com/
SustainableDevelopment2013-14.

Performance and targets
Objectives and targets
2013–14

Status

Performance FY2013–14 
(Feb’13)

Objectives and targets 
2014–15

Training and development

Improve coverage of Code  
of Conduct training program  
(% of workforce coverage)

Identification and mentoring of 
next generation of leaders 
through integrated and intensive 
development exercises to 
encourage and enable an ability 
to assume more senior roles and 
responsibilities

Diversity

25% women representation at 
the Vedanta Board level by 2015 

59% of employees have been 
trained in Human rights and 
Code of Conduct training

Ensuring the 100% coverage  
of Human rights and Code  
of Conduct training for all  
new hires

50 leaders have been identified 
and are being mentored for the 
senior leadership roles

Identification of next set of 
50 stars

Vedanta has been actively 
searching for and interviewing 
woman candidates, with no 
appointment made to date 

25% women representation at 
the Vedanta Board level by 2015 
(all appointments will be made 
on merit)

Our attrition rate for the period stands at 
4.92%.

5% of total women hiring at 
lateral and fresher level

  Achieved 

  In progress 

  Not achieved

29

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
Key performance indicators

Vedanta has identified the key 
performance indicators that it 
believes are useful in assessing 
how well the Group is performing 
against its strategic aims.

They encompass both financial 
and non-financial measures.

Growth 

Revenue (US$bn)

14.0

14.6

12.9

11.4

12%

2011

2012

2013

2014

Description
Revenue represents the value of goods and 
services provided to third parties during the year.

Commentary
Revenue was lower due to weaker commodity 
and oil prices along with the temporary forced 
business closures at our iron ore operations 
and copper Tuticorin smelter. Further, lower 
volumes at our Copper Zambia and Zinc 
International businesses also reduced revenue. 
This has been partially offset by improved 
operating performance along with volume 
increases at Cairn India and Zinc India. This 
resulted in revenues for the year of US$12,945.0 
million, 11.6% lower than the previous year.

Long-term value 

ROCE1 (%)

21.0

17.5

14.9

11.3

Underlying EPS (US cents)

Dividend per share (US cents)

263

15%

142

135

34

61.0

58.0

52.5

55.0

75%

5%

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011

2012

2013

2014

Description
Dividend per share is the total of final dividend 
recommended by the Board in relation to the year 
and interim dividend paid out during the year.

Commentary
We have been able to maintain our commitment 
to a progressive dividend policy, raising the total 
dividend to 61 US cents per share this year, up 5%.

Description
This is calculated on the basis of operating profit 
before special items and net of tax as a ratio of 
capital invested in operations as at the balance 
sheet date, and excludes investment in project 
capital work in progress and exploration assets. 
The objective is to consistently earn a post-tax 
return above the weighted average cost of capital.

Commentary
ROCE without project capital work in progress 
and exploration assets in FY2013–14 was 14.9% 
as compared to 17.5% in the previous year.

1  Excluding work in progress and exploration assets.

Description
This represents net profit attributable to equity 
shareholders and is stated before special 
items and their attributable tax and minority 
interest impacts. By producing a stream 
of profits and EPS we will be able to pay a 
progressive dividend to our shareholders.

Commentary
Underlying EPS at 34.2 US cents per share was 
lower compared to the previous year of 134.8 
US cents per share. This was impacted due to 
reduced prices, one-off items in interest cost such 
as Jharsuguda Plant 2 interest non-capitalisation, 
accelerated interest amortisation on a convertible 
bond with put option due in May 2014 and its 
associated tax provision, and a higher effective tax 
rate in FY2013–14 as compared to previous year.

30

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportEBITDA (US$bn)

Free cash flow (US$bn)

Capex spent (US$bn)

4.9

4.5

4.0

8%

3.5

3.0

14%

2.5

2.3

2.5

2.4

 30%

2.0

1.4

3.6

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011

2012

2013

2014

Description
This represents the amount invested in our 
organic growth programme during the year.

Commentary
Expansion capital expenditure during the 
year was US$1,424.6 million as compared to 
US$2,019.1 million, down by US$594.5 million. 
The capital expenditure reflects the Company’s 
disciplined approach to capital allocation.

Description
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and 
Amortisation (‘EBITDA’) is a factor of volumes, 
prices and cost of production. This measure is 
calculated by adjusting operating profit for special 
items, and adding depreciation and amortisation.

Description
This represents net cash flows before investing 
in expansion projects and dividends paid out 
by Vedanta. This measure ensures that the 
profit generated by our assets is reflected by 
cash flow in order to fund future growth.

Commentary
EBITDA for FY2013–14 was lower by 8.5% at 
US$4,491.2 million as compared to US$4,908.9 
million in FY2012–13 primarily due to lower 
commodity prices, a higher profit petroleum share 
to Government of India, partly offset by better 
operating volumes at Cairn India, Zinc India and 
Aluminium business despite the temporary forced 
business closures referred to above. These impacts 
were partially mitigated by cost control measures 
and currency fluctuations during the period.

Commentary
Free cash flow was US$3,016.5 million in 
FY2013–14 as compared to US$3,534.7 
million in FY2012–13. EBITDA conversion to 
free cash flow was 67.2% as compared to 
EBITDA conversion to free cash flow of 72.0% 
in FY2012–13 mainly due to increased interest 
charges due to non-capitalisation of interest 
of Jharsuguda Plant 2 and higher special 
items in FY2013–14 as compared to previous 
year. Cash flow generation after expansion 
capital expenditure was US$1,591.9 million, 
marginally higher than the previous year.

Sustainability 

LTIFR2  (per million man hours)

Gender diversity (%)

CSR footprint (million benficiaries)

0.86

0.83

2%

0.55

0.54

8.5

8.2

8.1

8.4

4%

3.1

2.7

4.1

3.7

11%

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011

2012

2013

2014

Description
The Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (‘LTIFR’) is 
the number of lost-time injuries per million man-
hours worked. This includes our employees and 
contractors working in our operations and projects.

Commentary
We have been able to sustain reduction in 
LTIFR with a 37% fall over the last three years. 
Additionally, we have initiated structured 
programmes to review and remove any 
unsafe conditions at our plants. More focus 
is being given to incident reporting.

2  Starting from this year we are reporting combined LTIFR 
for operations and projects and previous year numbers 
have been restated accordingly.

Description
The percentage of women in the total permanent 
employee workforce.

Commentary
We nurture passionate talent and provide 
equal opportunities to men and women. During 
FY2013–14, women employees comprised 
8.4% of our employees. We initiated special 
recruitment drives for providing career 
advancement to women, including planned 
rotation through corporate functions.

Description
Total number of beneficiaries through our 
community development programmes 
across all our operations.

Commentary
We benefited over 4 million people this 
year through our continuous efforts in the 
community development projects comprising 
community health, nutrition, education, 
water and sanitation, sustainable livelihood, 
women empowerment and bio-investment.

31

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Principal risks and uncertainties

Our multi-layered risk management framework is 
aimed at effectively mitigating various risks which 
our businesses are exposed to in the course of their 
operations as well as in their strategic actions.

Our businesses are exposed to variety of 
risks which are inherent to an international 
mining and resources organisation. 
Resource companies carry with it a 
significant element of constantly evolving 
risks, making it essential for them to 
develop necessary systems to manage 
the risks, while simultaneously balancing 
the relative risk/reward equations 
demanded by its stakeholders. In addition, 
the nature of our business operations 
is long term, resulting in several of the 
identified risks being enduring in nature.

Our risk management framework is 
designed to be a simple, consistent and 
clear for managing and reporting risks from 
the Group’s businesses to the Board. Risk 
management is embedded in our critical 
business activities, functions and processes. 
Materiality and tolerance for risk are key 
considerations in our decision-making.

Our management systems, organisational 
structures, processes, standards, code 
of conduct together form the system 
of internal control that govern how 
we conduct the Group’s business and 
manage the associated risks.

We have a multi-layered risk management 
framework aimed at effectively mitigating 
the various risks which our businesses are 
exposed to in the course of their operations 
as well as in their strategic actions. We 
identify risk at the individual business level 
for existing operations as well as for ongoing 
projects through a consistently applied 
methodology, using the Turnbull matrix.

Formal discussion on risk management 
happens in business level review meetings 
at least once in a quarter. The respective 
businesses review the risks, change in the 
nature and extent of the major risks since 
the last assessment, control measures 
established for the risk and further action 
plans. The control measures stated 
in the risk matrix are also periodically 
reviewed by the business management 
teams to verify their effectiveness.

These meetings are chaired by business CEOs 
and attended by CXOs, senior management 
and concern functional heads. Risk officers 
have been formally nominated at all 
operating businesses as well as Group level 
whose role is to create awareness on risks 
at senior management level and to develop 
and nurture a risk management culture 
within the businesses. Risk mitigation plans 
form an integral part of KRA/KPI process 
of process owners. Structured discussion 
on risk management also happens at 
SBU levels on their respective risk matrix 
and mitigation plans. Governance of risk 
management framework in the businesses 
is anchored with their leadership team.

As mentioned in the last years report, formal 
discussion on risk management happens 
at Group level once in a quarter. The Group 
level Risk Management Committee meeting 
is attended by Group senior management, 
entity CXOs, risk officers and other members.

The Board of Directors has the ultimate 
responsibility for management of risks 
and for ensuring the effectiveness of 
internal control systems. The Audit 
Committee aids the Board in this process 
by identification and assessment of any 
changes in risk exposure, review of risk 
control measures and by approval of 
remedial actions, where appropriate.

The Audit Committee is in turn supported 
by the Group Level Risk Management 
Committee (‘GRMC’), which helps the Audit 
Committee in evaluating the design and 
operating effectiveness of the risk mitigation 
programme and the control systems.

In addition to the above structure, 
other key risk governance and oversight 
committees include the following:
•  Group Treasury Risk Management 
Committee has an oversight on the 
treasury related risks. This committee 
comprises of Group CFO, business CFOs 
and Treasury Heads at respective 
businesses.

•  Group Capex Sub-Committee which 
evaluates the risks while reviewing any 
capital investment decisions as well as 
institutes a risk management framework in 
expansion projects.

•  Vedanta Board Level Sustainability 

Committee which looks at sustainability 
related risks. This committee is headed  
by a Non-Executive Director and has 
Group CEO and other business leaders  
as its members.

As stated above, every business division 
in the Group has developed its own risk 
matrix of Top 20 risks which gets reviewed 
at Business Management Committee 
level. In addition, business divisions have 
also developed their own risk registers 
(comprising of 75–100 risks or at times 
even more) depending on size of operations 
and number of SBUs/locations. These 
risks get reviewed in SBU level meetings.

Our principal risks, which have been assessed 
according to impact and likelihood, are 
described on the following pages. The 
order in which these risks appear does not 
necessarily reflect the likelihood of their 
occurrence or the relative magnitude of 
their impact on our business. While our risk 
management framework is designed to 
help the organisation meet its objectives, 
there can be no guarantee that our risk 
management activities will mitigate or 
prevent these or other risks from occurring.

“Our risk management 
framework is designed to be 
a simple, consistent and 
clear for managing and 
reporting risks from the 
Group’s businesses to the 
board.”

32

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportRisks & Impact  

Mitigation Plan

Delay in commencement of production facilities in aluminium business

Some of our projects have been completed (pending commissioning) 
or nearing completion. The timing, implementation and cost of these 
expansion projects are subject to a number of risks, including delay in 
obtaining necessary approvals which may delay or prevent us from 
commencing commercial operations at some of these projects.

We are in the process of securing key raw material linkages for our 
alumina/aluminium business. In order to meet our bauxite 
requirements, continuous dialogue is happening with the State 
Government for allocation of new mining leases. Sourcing of bauxite 
from mines in neighbouring states is also being pursued.

Various infrastructures related challenges have been/are being 
addressed. Requisite approvals for the commencement of our 
production facilities are being pursued.

A strong management team is in place to work towards sustainable 
low cost of production, operational excellence and securing key raw 
material linkages. With Sesa Sterlite merger process completed, we 
have progressed one step further in this direction. Further details in 
this connection are included in the Aluminium business section.

Extension of Production Sharing Contract of Cairn beyond 2020 or extension at less favourable terms

Cairn India has 70% participating interest in Rajasthan Block. The 
production sharing contract (‘PSC’) of Rajasthan Block runs till 2020. 
Challenges in extension of production sharing contract of Cairn 
(beyond 2020) or extension at less favourable terms may have 
implications.

Reliability and predictability in operational performance

Our operations are subject to conditions and events beyond our 
control that could, among other matters, increase our mining, 
transportation or production costs, disrupt or halt operations at our 
mines, smelters and power plants and production facilities for varying 
lengths of time or even permanently. These conditions and events 
include disruptions in mining and production due to equipment 
failures, unexpected maintenance problems and other interruptions, 
non-availability of raw materials of appropriate quantity and quality 
for our energy requirements, disruptions to or increased cost of 
transport services or strikes and industrial actions or disputes.

Also challenges at KCM in terms of volume ramp up and cost can 
impact its profitability. 

PSC has certain enabling provisions for extension of the terms. During 
the year, we continued to engage effectively with all Government 
stakeholders for an informed policy discourse.

FY2013–14 saw increased engagement between Ministry of 
Petroleum & Natural Gas and industry associations to improvise 
regulatory and operational environment.

Formal application for extension of the licence term as provided in the 
Production Sharing Contract has been submitted to the Ministry of 
Petroleum and Natural Gas.

Asset utilisation and cost of production (‘CoP’) continues to be a 
priority area. We carry out periodic benchmarking of cost of 
production and other operational efficiencies with the objective of 
being in the top decile in all the businesses on CoP. A structured asset 
optimisation programme has been launched in the Group with help of 
reputed consulting firms to improve overall awareness and 
operational efficiencies.

The role of asset optimisation function in the businesses has been 
enlarged and elevated in the organisation structure. Cost reduction 
projects with specific targets are taken up periodically along with 
leading international consultants.

We continue to invest in new technology to improve CoP. While some 
of these risks can be beyond our control, we have adequate and 
competent experience in these areas and have consistently 
demonstrated our ability to manage these problems proactively.

At KCM, an appropriate organisation is already in place and our focus 
is on stabilising production. Cost reduction initiatives have been taken 
up at Nchanga. Our priority today at KCM is cash conservation.

33

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Principal risks and uncertainties continued

Risks & Impact  

Mitigation Plan

Challenges in resumption, continuation of Iron Ore business

The Honourable Supreme Court (‘The Court’) through its order dated 
21 April 2014 has lifted the ban on mining in the State of Goa, subject 
to certain conditions. The Court has imposed an interim restriction on 
the maximum annual excavation from the mining leases in the State 
of Goa of 20 million tonnes subject to determination of final capacity 
by Expert Committee appointed by the Supreme Court.

The Court has also decreed that all mining leases in the State of Goa, 
including those of Sesa Sterlite, have expired in 2007. Consequently, 
no mining operations can be carried out until renewal/execution of 
mining lease deeds by the State Government. We are working towards 
securing the necessary permissions for commencement of operations. 

Community relations

The continued success of our existing operations and future projects 
are in part dependent upon broad support and a healthy relationship 
with the respective local communities. Failure to identify and manage 
local concerns and expectations can have a negative impact on 
relations with local communities and therefore affect the 
organisation’s reputation and social licence to operate and grow.

Our business leadership teams have periodic engagements with the 
local communities to establish relations based on trust and mutual 
benefit. Our businesses seeks to identify and minimise any potentially 
negative operational impacts and risks through responsible behaviour 
– acting transparently and ethically, promoting dialogue and 
complying with commitments to stakeholders.

Our approach to community development is holistic, long-term, 
integrated and sustainable and is governed by two key considerations 
– needs of the local people and the development plan in line with the 
UN Millennium Development Goals. Our endeavour is to integrate our 
sustainability objectives into long-term planning.

The organisation endeavours to ensure transparent communication 
with local communities, including through the use of a grievance 
management process, local perception surveys, local media and 
community meetings.

We help communities identify their priorities through need 
assessment programmes and then work closely with them to design 
programmes that seek to make progress towards improvement in 
quality of life of the local communities.

Our community programmes reach extends to all our operations and 
are benefiting over 4.1 million people from over 2,200 villages. Our 
community activity is delivered at local, regional and national level to 
ensure businesses are able to effectively maximise impact in 
facilitating socio-economic development. Further details of the 
Group’s CSR activities are included in the Sustainability section.

34

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportRisks & Impact  

Mitigation Plan

Health, safety and environment (‘HSE’)

The resources sector is subject to extensive health, safety, and 
environmental laws, regulations and standards. Evolving regulations, 
standards and stakeholder expectations could result in increased cost, 
litigation or threaten the viability of operations in extreme cases.

Health, Safety and Environment (‘HSE’) is a high priority area for the 
organisation. Compliance with international and local regulations and 
standards, protecting our people, communities and the environment 
from harm and our operations from business interruptions are our key 
focus areas. Vedanta Board level Sustainability Committee is chaired 
by a Non-Executive Director and includes the CEO as its members 
meet periodically to discuss HSE performance.

We have appropriate policies and standards in place to mitigate and 
minimise any HSE related occurrences. Structured monitoring and a 
review mechanism and system of positive compliance reporting is 
in place.

The Company has recently implemented a fresh set of standards to 
align its sustainability framework in line with international practices. A 
structured sustainability assurance program has been launched in the 
business divisions covering environment, health, safety, community 
relations and human rights aspects and to embed our commitment 
at the operational level. A system of independent audits of HSE 
practices by leading international consultants is in place. HSE experts 
are also inducted from reputed Indian and global organisations to 
bring in best-in-class practices.

The businesses have an appropriate policy in place for occupational 
health related matters supported by structured processes, controls 
and technology. Our operations ensure the issue of operational health 
and consequential potential risk/obligations are carefully handled. 
Depending on the nature of the exposure and surrounding risk, our 
operations have different levels of processes, controls and monitoring 
mechanisms. There is a strong focus on safety during project 
planning/execution with adequate thrust on contract workmen safety.

Further details of our HSE related activities are included in the 
Sustainability section.

35

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Principal risks and uncertainties continued

Risks & Impact  

Mitigation Plan

Transitioning of zinc and lead mining operations from open pit to underground mining

Our zinc and lead mining operations in India are transitioning from  
an open pit mining operation to underground mining operation. 
Difficulties in managing this transition may result in challenges  
in achieving stated business milestones.

A strong separate empowered organisation is working towards 
ensuring a smooth transition from open pit to underground mining. 
We are working with internationally renowned engineering and 
technology partners on this project.

Technical audits are being carried out by independent agencies.

Reputed contractors have been engaged to ensure completion of the 
project on indicated time lines. These mines will be developed using 
best in class technology and equipment and ensuring the highest 
level of productivity and safety.

We are inducting employees/contractors in our system having 
underground mining expertise. We are also sending our employees to 
overseas underground mines for skill development.

Stage gate process is being implemented to review risk from time to 
time and remedy at multiple stages on the way. Progress reports 
projects are regularly reviewed, including assessments of the progress 
against the key project milestones, as well as actual performance 
against budget. Robust quality control procedures have also been 
implemented to check safety and quality of services/design/actual 
physical work. 

The Company and its business divisions monitor regulatory and 
political developments on a continuous basis. Our focus has been to 
communicate our responsible mining credentials through 
representations to government and industry associations.

We continue to demonstrate the Group’s commitment to 
sustainability by proactive environmental, safety and CSR practices. 
We continue to actively engage with local community/media/NGOs 
on these matters.

SOX and SEC related compliance arrangements are in place. We have 
an online portal for compliance monitoring. Appropriate escalation 
and review mechanisms are in place. Competent in-house legal 
organisation exists at all the businesses. A framework for monitoring 
against Anti Bribery & Corruption guidelines has also been 
implemented. 

Political, legal and regulatory risk

We have operations in many countries around the globe, which have 
varying degrees of political and commercial stability.

The political, legal and regulatory regimes in the countries we operate 
in may result in higher operating costs, restrictions such as the 
imposition or increase in royalties or taxation rates, export duty, 
impact on mining rights/ban and change in legislation pertaining to 
repatriation of money.

We may also be affected by the political acts of governments 
including resource nationalisation and legal cases in these countries 
over which we have no control.

36

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportRisks & Impact  

Fluctuation in commodity prices

Mitigation Plan

Commodity prices and demand are volatile and strongly influenced 
by global economic conditions. Volatility in commodity prices and 
demand may adversely affect our earnings, cash flow and reserves.

Currency exchange rate fluctuations

Our assets, earnings and cash flows are influenced by a variety of 
currencies due to the diversity of the countries in which we operate. 
Fluctuations in exchange rates of those currencies may have an 
impact on our financials.

Although the majority of the Group’s revenue is tied to commodity 
prices that are typically priced by reference to the US dollar, a 
significant part of its expenses are incurred and paid in local currency. 
Moreover Group borrowings are significantly denominated in US 
dollars while a large percentage of cash and liquid investments are 
held in other currencies, mainly in the Indian rupee. Any material 
fluctuations of these currencies against the US dollar could result in 
lower profitability or in higher cash outflows towards debt obligations.

Discovery risk

The increased production rates from our growth oriented operations, 
places demand on exploration and prospecting initiatives to replace 
reserve and resources at a pace faster than depletion. A failure in 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 could negatively affect our prospects. There are 
numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating ore and oil & gas 
reserves, and geological, technical and economic assumptions that 
are valid at the time of estimation. These may change significantly 
when new information becomes available.

The diversified nature of the commodities including sizeable exposure 
to oil provides some protection from the fluctuation in commodity 
prices. The Group’s policy is to sell its products at prevailing market 
prices and not to enter into price hedging arrangements other than 
for businesses which are on a tolling basis where back to back hedging 
is used to mitigate pricing risks. In exceptional circumstances we may 
enter into strategic hedging but only with prior approval of the 
Executive Committee.

The businesses have developed robust controls around this area.  
The Treasury Risk Management Committee reviews the commodity 
related risks and suggests a necessary course of action as may  
be needed by business divisions.

Philosophy of the organisation is not to speculate in forex. As in 
commodities, we have developed robust controls in forex 
management as well to hedge currency risk on a back to back basis.

The Treasury Risk Management Committee reviews our forex related 
matters periodically and suggests a necessary course of action as 
may be needed by businesses, from time to time, within the overall 
frame work of our forex policy.

We seek to mitigate the impact of short-term movements in currency 
on the businesses by hedging short-term exposures progressively 
based on their maturity. However, large or prolonged movements in 
exchange rates may have a material adverse effect on the Group’s 
businesses, operating results, financial condition and/or prospects. 

As per our strategic priority to add to our reserves and resources by 
extending resources at a faster rate than we deplete them through 
continuous focus on drilling and exploration programmes.

In order to achieve this we have developed an appropriate 
organisation and allocated adequate financial resources for 
exploration. International technical experts/agencies are working 
closely with our exploration team.

We also have a system of periodic independent technical audits by 
leading international firms. We also continue to work towards 
long-term supply contracts with mines.

37

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Principal risks and uncertainties continued

Risks & Impact  

Mitigation Plan

Breaches in Information/IT security

Like many other global organisations, our reliance on computers and 
network technology is increasing. These systems could be subject to 
security breaches resulting in theft, disclosure or corruption of key/
strategic information. Security breaches could also result in 
misappropriation of funds or disruptions to our business operations. 
A cyber security breach could have an impact on business operations.

Talent/skill shortage risk

The Company’s efforts to continue its growth and efficient operations 
will place significant demand on its management resources. Our 
highly skilled workforce and experienced management team is critical 
to maintaining its current operations, implementing its development 
projects and achieving longer-term growth. Any significant loss or 
diminution in the collective pool of Vedanta’s executive management 
or other key team members could have a material effect on its 
businesses, operating results and future prospects.

Appropriate organisation in place at respective businesses for 
information/IT security. IT security policies and procedures are 
defined at individual businesses.

We seek to manage the cyber security risk through standards, 
ongoing monitoring of threats and awareness initiatives throughout 
the organisation. An IT system is in place to monitor logical  
access controls.

We continue to invest in initiatives which seek to widen our talent 
pool. We have a talent management system in place to identify and 
develop internal candidates for critical management positions, as well 
as processes to identify suitable external candidates, wherever 
appropriate.

Our performance management system is designed to provide reward 
and remuneration structures and personal development opportunities 
appropriate to attract and retain key employees. A structured 
programme is in place to map critical positions and ensure that all 
such positions are filled with competent resources.

Our progressive HR policies along with strong HR leadership have 
ensured that career progression, job rotation and job enrichment 
continue be focus areas for our businesses. 

Liquidity risk

The Group may not be able to meet its payment obligations when 
due or unable to borrow funds in the market at an acceptable price to 
fund actual or proposed commitments. A sustained adverse economic 
downturn and/or suspension of its operation in any business, effecting 
revenue and free cash flow generation, may cause some stress on the 
Company’s financing and covenant compliance and its ability to raise 
financing at competitive terms. Any constraints on upstreaming of 
funds from the subsidiaries to the Group may affect the liquidity 
position at the Group level.

The Group generates sufficient cash flows from its current operations 
which, together with the available cash and cash equivalents and 
liquid financial asset investments, provide liquidity both in the short 
term as well as in the long term. Anticipated future cash flows and 
undrawn committed facilities of US$2,370.6 million, together with 
cash and liquid investments of US$8,937.9 million as at 31 March 
2014, are expected to be sufficient to meet the ongoing capital 
investment program and liquidity requirement of the Group in the 
foreseeable future.

The Group has a strong Balance Sheet that gives sufficient headroom 
to raise further debt should the need arise. The Group’s current ratings 
from Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch are BB, Ba1 and BB+ 
respectively. These ratings support the necessary financial leverage 
and access to debt or equity markets at competitive terms, taking into 
consideration current market conditions. The Group generally 
maintains a healthy gearing ratio and retains flexibility in the 
financing structure to alter the ratio when the need arises. As a matter 
of course, funding for upcoming refinancing is secured well ahead of 
its maturity date.

38

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportGoing concern

The Group’s business activities, together 
with the factors likely to affect its future 
development, performance and position 
are set out in the Strategic report on 
pages 2 to 75. The financial position of 
the Group, its cash flows, liquidity position 
and borrowing facilities are described in 
the Finance Review on pages 40 to 47. In 
addition Note 28 to the financial statements 
includes the Group’s objectives, policies 
and processes for managing its capital; 
its financial risk management objectives; 
details of its financial instruments and 
hedging activities; and its exposures 
to credit risk and liquidity risk.

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 its current operations 
which, together with the available cash 
and cash equivalents and liquid financial 
asset investments, provide liquidity both 
in the short term as well as in the long-
term. Anticipated future cash flows and 

undrawn committed facilities of US$2,370.6 
million, together with cash and liquid 
investments of US$8,937.9 million as at 31 
March 2014, are expected to be sufficient 
to meet the ongoing capital investment 
programme and liquidity requirement of 
the Group in the foreseeable future.

After making enquiries, the Directors have a 
reasonable expectation that the Company 
and the Group have adequate resources 
to continue in operational existence for 
the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they 
continue to adopt the going concern basis in 
preparing the Annual Report and Accounts.

Approval
This report was approved by the Board of 
Directors on 14 May 2014 and signed on its 
behalf by

Deepak Kumar
Company Secretary
14 May 2014

The Group has a strong Balance Sheet that 
gives sufficient headroom to raise further 
debt should the need arise. The Group’s 
current ratings from Standard & Poor’s, 
Moody’s and Fitch are BB, Ba1 and BB+ 
respectively. These ratings support the 
necessary financial leverage and access 
to debt or equity markets at competitive 
terms, taking into consideration current 
market conditions. The Group generally 
maintains a healthy gearing ratio and 
retains flexibility in the financing structure 
to alter the ratio when the need arises. 
As a consequence, the Directors believe 
that the Group is well placed to manage 
its business risks successfully despite the 
current uncertain economic outlook.

39

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Finance review

Robust performance with subdued prices
Vedanta delivered US$4.5 billion EBITDA 
with a backdrop of a challenging economic 
environment, volatile markets and generally 
low global growth rate. EBITDA was down 
by 8.5% compared with FY2012–13 driven 
by lower commodity prices, reduced volumes 
at Copper Zambia and Zinc International, 
lack of sales from our Iron Ore business and 
temporary closure of the Sterlite copper 
smelter in Q1 FY2013–14. However improved 
operational performance with volume 
increase in Cairn, Zinc India and effective 
cost control measures across our businesses 
partially mitigated the downside. EBITDA 
margin excluding custom smelting of 44.9%, 
continued to be healthy at similar levels to 
last year as a result of a continued track 
record of stable operating performance.

The metals businesses are well placed 
on the cost front with a majority of our 
businesses in the lowest quartiles of the 
global cost curve. At Zinc India, we are 
placed in the first quartile, at Jharsuguda 
aluminium smelter, we are in lowest quartile 
of the cost curve. Zinc International is in 
second quartile while the BALCO operations 
maintained second quartile cost positioning 
despite the lack of captive alumina. Copper 
India’s smelter also maintained its second 
quartile cost positioning achieving 
best in class operational standards.

The Group structure consolidation and 
simplification exercise, announced in 
February 2012, was concluded and took 
effect in two phases on 17 August 2013 
and 19 August 2013. As part of the 
reorganisation Sterlite Industries India 
Limited (‘SIIL’), Vedanta Aluminium Limited 
(‘VAL’), Madras Aluminium Company Limited 
(‘MALCO’) and Sterlite Energy Limited (‘SEL’) 
were merged with Sesa Goa Limited and 
renamed Sesa Sterlite Limited (‘SSL’). On 26 
August 2013, Vedanta also transferred the 
shareholding of one of its subsidiaries which 
held a 38.7% stake in Cairn India Limited 
(‘Cairn’), to SSL, along with the associated 
debt of US$5.9 billion. On 19 August 2013, 
the Power business was transferred from 
VAL to SSL at its carrying value through a 
sale and purchase agreement on a going 
concern basis. The Power business consists 
of the 1,215MW thermal power facility at 
Jharsuguda and the 300MW co-generation 
facility (90MW operational and 210MW 
under development) at Lanjigarh. These 
transactions are within the subsidiaries of the 
Company and will not have any acquisition 
accounting impact other than a change 
in the economic shareholding percentage. 
The simplification exercise has resulted in 
a change in economic holding percentage 
mainly in VAL and Cairn India. VAL’s effective 
holding has decreased from 87.6% to 58.3% 

40

Particulars

Appointed date

Effective date

SEL
Sterlite
Ekaterina
MALCO (residual)
VAL (Aluminium business demerger)
Sale and Purchase of VAL power division
Acquisition of 38.68% in Cairn India

1 January 2011
1 April 2011
1 April 2012
17 August 2013
1 April 2011
–
–

19 August 2013
17 August 2013
17 August 2013
17 August 2013
19 August 2013
19 August 2013
26 August 2013

Consolidated operating profit before special items

Consolidated operating profit 

Zinc
  India
  International
Oil & Gas
Iron Ore
Copper
  India/Australia
  Zambia
Aluminium
Power
Others

(in US$ million, except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

1,106.2
1,030.2
76.1
933.6
(70.0)
140.4
155.7
(15.3)
112.5
69.8
(4.3)

1,183.0
1,072.4
110.6
1,005.4
0.6
239.5
175.9
63.6
11.4
132.7
(0.9)

(6.5)%
(3.9)%
(31.2)%
(7.1)%
–
(41.4)%
(11.5)%
(124.1)%
883.5%
(47.4)%
–

Total Group operating profit

2,288.1

2,571.7

(11.0)%

Consolidated operating profit variance

Operating profit before special items for FY2012–13

Volume
Plant closures due to regulatory matters:
– Iron Ore Business
– Sterlite Copper Q1 Closure
– CMT Q4 Closure
Prices
  LME/LBMA/Brent
  Premium
Currency & Foreign Exchange fluctuation 
Cash cost of production
Higher Profit Petroleum share to GOI
Depreciation
Amortisation 
Others

Operating profit before special items for FY2013–14

(123.7)
(32.9)
(30.9)

(562.4)
54.6

(In US$ million)

2,571.7

306.8
(187.5)

(507.8)

169.8
75.5
(258.0)
(19.5)
153.6
(15.6)

2,288.1

whereas Cairn India’s reduced from 49.8% 
to 34.3%. The equity and non-controlling 
interest have been adjusted to reflect these 
changes in the economic shareholding.

International resulting in a US$117.8 
million reduction in operating profit, net 
positive impact of US$306.8 million.

Volumes
Operations excluding plant closures
Volume growth generated a positive 
contribution of US$424.6 million, mainly 
due to record oil and gas production 
and increased volume of refined zinc, 
lead and silver at Zinc India. This was 
partially offset by lower volumes at 
Konkola Copper Mines (‘KCM’) and Zinc 

Plant closures due to regulatory matters
Lack of sales at our Iron Ore business due 
to the continued iron ore mining ban in 
Goa, combined with only marginal sales in 
Karnataka in Q4, contributed to a negative 
variance of US$123.7 million to the operating 
profits compared with FY2012–13. Due to 
regulatory issues, the Tuticorin Smelter was 
closed temporarily in Q1, which impacted 
operating profit by US$32.9 million.  

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportFinancial Highlights

•  Revenue of US$12.9 billion
•  EBITDA1 of US$4.5 billion; EBITDA 

margin of 45%2

•  Underlying attributable profit  

US$93.4 million

•  Basic EPS (71.7) US cents, Underlying 

EPS3 of 34.2 US cents

•  Free cash flow of US$3.0 billion before 
growth capex and US$1.6 billion after 
growth capex

•  Net Debt reduced by US$0.7 billion over 
the last 12 months and by US$2.1 billion 
over the last 24 months

•  Final dividend of 39 US cents per share, 

up 5%

1  Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation, 
amortisation/impairment and special items.

2  Excludes custom smelting revenue and EBITDA at 
Copper and Zinc India operations from purchased 
concentrate.

3  Based on profit for the period after adding back 

special items and other gains and losses, and their 
resultant tax and non-controlling interest effects 
(refer to Note 11 of financial statements).

In addition the closure of our Australian 
mine in Q4 following a mud rush incident, 
meant operating profit was down by 
US$30.9 million. In total, operating profit was 
adversely impacted by US$187.5 million due 
to plant closures following regulatory issues.

surplus. However, with ample stocks of 
zinc in China and the rest of the world, the 
zinc price did not respond to the improved 
fundamentals. Average lead prices declined 
by 1.0%. Silver prices were lower by 29.8% 
as compared to the previous year.

Prices
The prices of many commodities 
declined during the financial year 
resulting in lower operating profits.

Average aluminium prices declined 
by 10.2% due to extraordinarily 
high levels of legacy inventories.

Average copper prices were also lower by 
9.5% as base metals have come under 
pressure due to concerns about a less 
commodity-intensive expansion in China. 
However new LME warehousing rules in 
2014 could alleviate storage bottlenecks 
and raise supply going forward.

Average Brent crude prices dropped by 
2.3% in the year. Sluggish demand and 
a strong supply in the US market led the 
decline in prices in first half. This was 
followed by several supply disruptions in 
the rest of the world in the second half of 
2013, mitigated by the reduction in imports 
in the US, leading to more stable prices.

Average zinc prices reduced by 2.0% as the 
global refined market moved into deficit 
and the concentrate market moved into 

Our Power business also witnessed lower 
energy prices primarily due to lower demand.

The lower commodity and oil prices across 
our businesses resulted in an adverse impact 
of US$562.4 million which was marginally 
offset by higher premia to LME prices in 
zinc and aluminium of US$54.6 million.

The impact of lower prices was US$150.1 
million for our Zinc business, US$141.1 
million in our Aluminium business, 
US$177.0 million in our Oil & Gas business 
and US$86.0 million in Copper Zambia 
and India/Australia. In aggregate, the 
operating profit for the year was reduced by 
US$562.4 million as a result of lower prices.

Currency & Foreign Exchange fluctuation
The Indian rupee: US dollar exchange 
rate at the beginning of the year was 
54.4 Indian rupees per US dollar closing 
at 60.1 Indian rupees per US dollar at 
the year end. The average exchange rate 
for the year FY2013–14 was 60.5 Indian 
rupees per US dollar, an 11% increase 
against the average 54.5 Indian rupees 
per US dollar for FY2012–13. This improved 
operating profits by US$169.8 million.

The movement of average commodity prices in FY2013–14 is shown in the table below :

(in US$/MT)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change 

Copper 
Aluminium 
Zinc 
Lead 
Silver (TOz)
Iron Ore (63 Fe Grade)
Crude per bbl

7,103
1,773
1,909
2,092
21
115
108

The following exchange rates against the US dollar have been applied:

Indian rupee
Australian dollar
South African rand
Kwacha1

1  Kwacha has been devalued with effect from January 2013.

Average  
FY2013–14

Average  
FY2012–13

60.50
0.93
10.11
5.50

54.45
0.97
8.51
5,230

7,853
1,974
1,948
2,113
31
120
110

As at 
31.3.14

60.09
0.93
10.58
6.25

(9.5)
(10.2)
(2.0)
(1.0)
(29.8)
(4.1)
(2.3)

As at  
31.3.13

54.39
0.96
9.25
5,329

41

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Finance review continued

Cash costs of production
The cost-inflationary environment prevailing 
in the sector was largely mitigated by higher 
production volumes at Cairn India, Zinc 
India, the Jharsuguda aluminium smelter, 
operational efficiencies of our plants and 
the depreciation of the Indian rupee against 
the US dollar in which most of our costs are 
denominated. The cost of production had a 
favourable impact on operating profit at our 
Aluminium business, Cairn India and Copper 
Zambia by US$181.0 million compared 
with an increase in the previous year in 
Zinc India and International and Copper 
India/Australia of around US$105.5 million. 
Our overall operating profits increased 
by US$75.5 million due to the improved 
costs compared with the previous year.

Depreciation
The depreciation was almost flat during 
FY2013–14 with a US$19.5 million increase 
in depreciation charge mainly at Cairn 
India driven by the capitalisation of wells, 
whereas in other businesses it reduced 
due to currency translation impacts.

Amortisation
The reserves related to our acquisitions 
mainly of Cairn India, Zinc International 
and Sesa Goa are being amortised on 
a unit of production basis over the total 
estimated remaining commercial reserves.

The reduction in amortisation charges in 
FY2013–14 as compared to the previous 
year was US$153.6 million, mainly due 
to lower production volumes in Zinc 
International and our Iron Ore business.

Revenue
Revenue was down 11.6% at US$12,945.0 
million primarily driven by weaker 
commodity and oil price environment, 
and temporary business closures due to 
regulatory issues though partly offset by 
improved volumes at Cairn India, Zinc India.

EBITDA for FY2013–14 was lower 
by 8.5% at US$4,491.2 million as 
compared to US$4,908.9 million in 
FY2012–13 as explained in the initial 
part of this financial review section.

42

Income statement

Revenue
EBITDA
EBITDA margin (%)
EBITDA margin without custom smelting (%)
Special items
Depreciation 
Amortisation

Operating Profit
Net interest expense
Other Gains and (Losses)

Profit before Taxation
Income Tax Expense
Effective Tax Rate (%)

Profit for the year
Non-controlling Interest
Non-controlling Interest (%)
Attributable profit/(loss)
Basic (loss)/ earnings per share (US cents per share)
Underlying earnings per share (US cents per share)

Consolidated revenue

Zinc
– India
– International
Oil and Gas 
Iron Ore
Copper
– India/Australia
– Zambia
Aluminium
Power
Eliminations

Revenue

(in US$ million, except as stated)

FY2014

FY2013

% Change

12,945.0
4,491.2
34.7%
44.9%
(138.0)
(1,410.5)
(792.6)

2,150.1
(668.0)
(364.0)

1,118.1
(128.7)
11.5%

989.4
1,185.4
119.8%
(196.0)
(71.7)
34.2

14,640.2
4,908.9
33.5%
45.1%
(41.9)
(1,391.0)
(946.2)

2,529.8
(520.9)
(285.2)

1,723.7
(46.1)
2.7%

(11.6)%
(8.5)%
–
–
229.4%
1.4%
(16.2)%

(15.0)%
28.3%
27.6%

(35.1)%
179.2%
–

(41.0)%
1,677.6
(21.8)%
1,515.6
90.4%
–
162.0 (221.0)%
59.4 (220.7)%
(74.6)%

134.8

(in US$ million, except as stated)

2013–14

2012–13

% Change

2,856.8
2,195.4
661.4
3,092.8
267.1
4,676.2
3,404.8
1,271.4
1,785.4
621.7
(355.0)

3,060.5
2,263.3
797.2
3,223.4
442.5
5,733.9
3,991.1
1,742.8
1,837.8
669.0
(326.9)

(6.7)%
(3.0)%
(17.0)%
(4.1)%
(39.6)%
(18.4)%
(14.7)%
(27.0)%
(2.9)%
(7.1)%
–

12,945.0

14,640.2

(11.6)%

Consolidated EBITDA
The consolidated EBITDA by sector is set out in the table below:

(in US$ million, except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

 EBITDA  
Margin %
FY2013–14

FY2012–13

Zinc
– India
– International
Oil & Gas
Iron Ore
Copper
– India/Australia
– Zambia
Aluminium
Power
Others

Total

1,358.4
1,145.0
213.4
2,347.0
(24.2)
345.2
197.9
156.3
287.3
168.4
0.1

1,477.0
1,182.5
294.5
2,440.3

(8.0)%
47.5% 48.3%
(3.2)% 52.2% 52.2%
(27.5)% 32.3% 36.9%
(3.8)% 75.9% 75.7%
19.2%
(9.1)%
8.3%
7.4%
5.8%
5.5%
12.3% 14.8%
11.0%
16.1%
27.1% 34.2%
–

84.9 (128.5)%
(27.6)%
(9.7)%
(39.3)%
41.8%
(26.3)%
–

476.4
219.1
257.3
202.6
228.5
(0.8)

–

4,491.2

4,908.9

(8.5)% 34.7%

33.5%

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report“Despite lower EBITDA, our 
EBITDA margin excluding 
custom smelting operations 
remained strong at 44.9%.”

EBITDA margin
Despite lower EBITDA, our EBITDA 
margin remained strong at 34.7% 
(FY2012–13 at 33.5%) and improved 
marginally. EBITDA margin excluding 
custom smelting operations, remained 
stable at 44.9% (FY2012–13 at 45.1%). 
The diversified portfolio helped us 
improve overall margins despite the 
weak commodity price environment.

Special items
US$138.0 million has been charged to our 
Income Statement as a result of special 
items. An impairment charge of US$81.6 
million being recorded against the value of 
reserves in our Lisheen mine for US$47.5 
million with impairment of idle mining assets 
worth US$11.0 million and US$23.1 million 
towards open pit mining assets of Copper 
Zambia at Nchanga. It also includes a one 
time charge towards Land tax of previous 
years paid to Sesa Goa State Government 
of US$16.6 million for regularising mining 
dumps on Government and private land 
and US$15.1 million relating to voluntary 
redundancy charges at Zinc India. US$22.1 
million has been provided in Copper Zambia 
as a settlement agreement with a mining 
contractor. Finally, Group simplification and 
restructuring related costs of US$2.6 million 
have been accounted as special items.

Other gains and losses
Other gains and losses include the 
impact of MTM changes on foreign 
currency borrowings, primarily at our 
Indian businesses. The other gains and 
losses in FY2013–14 were US$364.0 
million, as compared with a loss of 
US$285.2 million in FY2012–13.

Taxation
The effective tax rate has gone up during 
the year from 2.7% to 11.5% largely 
due to the credit of US$290.0 million in 
Cairn India following a reorganisation in 
previous year. The impact of a tax reversal 
of US$257.0 million during the year as a 
result of the Sesa Sterlite merger is largely 
offset by the creation of a deferred tax 
liability on the fair valuation of Cairn 
India following an increase in surcharges 
by 5% and other one time provisions.

In our Zinc India business, margin was largely 
maintained despite reductions in zinc, lead 
and silver prices. This was a result of higher 
mined metal, silver production and robust 
cost management. At Zinc International, 
margins were lower by 4.6% as a result of 
lower volumes and slightly higher costs.

Depreciation and amortisation
The depreciation was up marginally by 
around US$19.5 million as explained 
earlier. Amortisation charges of our 
acquisition related expenses were 
lower by US$153.6 million mainly due 
to reduced production volumes.

Net interest
The finance costs charged to the income 
statement were higher by US$165.8 
million at US$1,355.7 million in FY2013–14 
(FY2012–13: US$1,189.9 million). This was 
primarily due to non-capitalisation of interest 
at Jharsuguda Plant 2 of around US$116.0 
million due to the delay in commissioning. 
During the year we have also accelerated 
the fair value amortisation by US$71.0 
million on convertible bonds where the put 
option is likely to be exercised in May 2014.

Investment revenues were marginally 
higher at US$687.7 million as compared 
to US$669.0 million in the previous year 
despite mark to market (‘MTM’) losses 
of US$17.0 million on certain investment 
in duration funds and bonds.

As a result net interest expenses 
increased to US$668.0 million from 
US$520.9 million in FY2012–13.

EBITDA margin in our Copper businesses 
in India/Australia improved marginally due 
to lower conversion cost backed by better 
operating performance of the smelter 
in the second half supported by higher 
Treatment and Refining charges (‘TCs 
and RCs’) though offset by Australian 
operations temporary closure impact in Q4 
and lower by-products credits at Tuticorin. 
At Zambia though the margins drifted lower 
following the impact of lower volumes.

Aluminium business delivered an 
increase in EBITDA margin due to an 
improvement in operating performance 
with a reduction in the cost of production 
which was partially offset by a significant 
decrease in aluminium prices.

The Power business EBITDA margin 
decreased significantly this year as a result 
of the lower tariff currently being recognised 
from the power supply company Grid 
Corporation of Odisha Limited (‘Gridco’) 
in Odisha. Other factors like lower PLF 
as a result of lower demand, but better 
variable costs largely offset each other.

Oil & Gas EBITDA margin continued to 
be stable during the year at 75.9%.

Attributable (loss)/profit
The attributable loss in FY2013–14 was 
US$196.0 million, significantly lower 
than the US$162.0 million attributable 
profit in FY2012–13. This was primarily 
due to a decrease in EBITDA of 
US$417.7 million, with higher special 
items and one-offs like accelerated 
amortisation on a large convertible 
bond series in the current year, interest 
charged to income statement instead of 
capitalisation at Jharsuguda Plant 2.

Apart from lower EBITDA, special and 
one-off items as explained above, profit 
mix i.e. better performance at partly 
owned subsidiaries as compared to 
wholly owned subsidiaries resulted in 
higher economic interest of minorities, 
leading to an attributable loss.

Underlying attributable profit
Underlying profit for the year, excluding 
the impact of MTM losses and special 
items was lower at US$93.4 million as 
compared with US$367.9 million in 
FY2012–13. This follows from the above.

43

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014(In US$ million,  
except as stated)

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

16.6
108.6
31,043.5
1,373.7
8,937.9
3,894.0

16.6
–
33,132.6
962.9
7,981.7
3,867.9
(16,871.2) (16,592.8)
(10,528.3) (10,499.9)
18,869.0
17,974.8
4,401.3
4,010.4
14,467.7
13,964.4
18,869.0
17,974.8

“Our net debt has reduced 
since FY2011–12.”

Finance review continued

Earnings per share
Basic loss per share in FY2013–14 was 
at 71.7 US cents per share (FY2012–13: 
59.4 US cents profit per share).

However, if we exclude special items and 
other gains and losses, the underlying 
EPS for the year was 34.2 US cents per 
share (FY2012–13: 134.8 US cents).

The Board has declared final dividend of 
39 US cents per share an increase of 5% 
as compared to 37 US cents in FY2012–13.

Shareholder’s equity was US$4,010.4 
million at 31 March 2014 compared 
to US$4,401.3 million at 31 March 
2013 reflecting the impact of currency 
depreciation against US dollar (mainly, 
the Indian rupee) by US$1,239.6 million, 
attributable losses of US$196.0 million 
due to equity holders during the period, 
dividend payment and movement of 
convertible bond reserves. These negative 
effects were partially offset by an increase 
in equity attributable to shareholders 
of US$626.8 million due to changes in 
economic holding percentages as result of 
group simplification and consolidation.

Non-controlling interests decreased to 
US$13,964.4 million at 31 March 2014 
from US$14,467.7 million as at 31 March 
2013, due to share of losses, change in 
economic holding percentages as well 
as foreign currency movements.

Tangible fixed assets
During the year, we added US$1,745.3 million 
to property, plant and equipment comprising 
of US$1,424.6 million on our expansion and 
improvement projects and US$320.7 million 
spent on sustaining capital expenditure. 
Expansion project expenses were US$649.0 
million in our Oil & Gas business at Cairn 
India, US$283.0 million in Power business 
mainly at Talwandi Sabo , US$147.0 million 
in our Aluminium business, US$243.0 
million at Zinc India and the balance in 
other projects at Liberia, KCM, Sterlite 
Copper. The decline in capital expenditure 
shows our commitment to generate higher 
cash and deleverage balance sheet.

Balance sheet

Goodwill
Intangible assets
Tangible assets
Other non-current assets
Cash and liquid investments
Other current assets
Debt
Other current and non-current liabilities
Net assets
Shareholders’ equity
Non-controlling interests
Total equity

Net debt
Net debt reduced by US$696.1 million to 
US$7,919.5 million at 31 March 2014, (31 
March 2013: US$8,615.6 million). Our net 
debt has consistently reduced since FY2011–
12, when it reached US$10,064.4 million. 
Cash and liquid investments were US$8,937.9 
million as at 31 March 2014 with the increase 
mainly at Zinc India and Cairn India.

Gross debt as at 31 March 2014 was 
US$16,871.2 million (31 March 2013: 
US$16,592.8 million) increasing marginally 
for project payments at Talwandi Sabo 
Power plant, debt and interest servicing 
at Vedanta Resources plc and fund 
requirements for Copper Zambia.

The average debt in FY2013–14 was 
US$16,850.0 million, which was in line with 
the previous year (FY2012–13: US$16,791.9 
million). The average debt maturity at 31 
March 2014 increased to 3.5 years from 
3.3 years as at 31 March 2013, excluding 
working capital loans at operating 
subsidiaries. As on 31 March 2014, the Group 
had available unutilised fund-based credit 
lines amounting to US$1,539.0 million.

44

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportThe Company continued to maintain 
its ratings from Standard & Poor’s, 
Moody’s & Fitch: ratings are BB, 
Ba1 and BB+ respectively.

Net gearing reduced to 30.6% as 
compared to 31.4% in FY2012–13.

Of our total gross debt of US$16.6 billion 
(at face value excluding working capital 
loans), debt at our subsidiaries is US$8.2 
billion, with the balance in the holding 
company. The future maturity profile 
of debt (in US$ billion) at our subsidiary 
companies and at the holding company 
Vedanta Resources plc is as follows:

A 5.5%, US$1.25 billion (face value) 
convertible bond issued in July 2009 
has a put option with an exercise notice 
period between 14 April 2014 to 29 
May 2014 and if exercised, the payment 
date is 14 July 2014. As a contingency 
measure we have put funding in place 
to meet the repayment requirement.

FCCB debt of US$0.7 billion at Sesa 
Sterlite Limited maturing in FY2014–15, 
will partly be paid out of internal accruals 
and balance through refinancing.

US$0.2 billion due from KCM in 
FY2014–15 has been restructured with 
banks and documentation is in progress. 
Post completion of restructuring, 
nothing will be due in FY2014–15.

The balance of US$1.50 billion debt due 
in FY2014–15 is largely in the Aluminum 
and Power businesses and is currently 
funded by short-term loans which will be 
refinanced from long-term sources.

Operating free cash flow before expansion 
capital expenditure in FY2013–14 was 
US$3,016.5 million as compared to 
US$3,534.7 million in FY2012–13. EBITDA 
conversion to free cash flow was 67.2% 
as compared to EBITDA conversion to 
free cash flow of 72.0% in FY2012–13 
due to higher one-off items and higher 
interest. Expansion capital expenditure 
during the year was US$1,424.6 million 
as compared to US$2,019.1 million, 
lower by US$594.5 million, and cash 
flow generation after expansion capital 
expenditure was US$1,591.9 million, 
marginally higher than the previous year.

“  Operating free cash flow3 in FY2013–14 
was US$3,016.5 million.”

Particulars

Total

FY2015

FY2016

FY2017

FY2018

FY2019

 Beyond 
FY2019

Debt at Vedanta 
Resources plc

Convertibles at Put 

Date

Debt at Subsidiaries

Total Debt

7.1

1.3
8.2

16.6

0.1

1.3
2.4

3.8

0.7

1.0

1.1

2.7

1.5

1.0

1.7

1.1

2.1

1.3

2.4

1.4

4.1

1.0

2.5

Cash flows
The movement in net (debt)/cash in FY2013–14 are set out below.

EBITDA
Operating exceptional items
Working capital movements
Changes in long-term creditors and non-cash items
Sustaining capital expenditure
Sale of tangible fixed assets
Net interest
Tax paid

Free cash flow

Expansion capital expenditure1
Sale/(Purchase) of fixed assets investments
Acquisition of minorities
Acquisitions, net of cash & liquid investments acquired
Purchase of mining assets
Dividends paid to equity shareholders
Dividends paid to minority shareholders
Other movement2

Movement in net (debt)/cash

1  On an accrual basis.
2  Includes foreign exchange movements.
3  Before expansion capital expenditure.

(in US$ million,  
except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

4,491.2
(138.0)
395.0
151.4
(321.6)
9.3
(710.1)
(860.9)

4,908.9
(41.9)
209.5
25.6
(378.2)
63.4
(355.1)
(897.4)

3,016.5

3,534.7

(1,424.6)
16.8
–
–
–
(162.5)
(345.9)
(404.2)

(2,019.1)
158.1
–
–
(33.5)
(153.5)
(257.4)
219.8

696.1

1,449.2

45

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Finance review continued

Project capex

Capex in progress

Cairn India

Total Capex (Cairn)

Copper Sector
160MW CPP at Tuticorin
KCM KDMP Project (7.5mtpa)

Aluminium Sector
BALCO-Korba 325ktpa Smelter and  

1,200MW CPP

BALCO-211mt Coal Block
Jharsuguda 1.25mtpa smelter

Power Sector
Jharsuguda 2,400MW power plant
Talwandi 1,980MW IPP

Zinc Sector
Zinc India (Mines Expansion)

Infrastructure
Vizag general coal berth

Total Capex in Progress

Exploration/Enabling capex

Zinc International-Gamsberg
Western Cluster Liberia

Total Exploration/Enabling Capex

Capex flexibility

Copper Sector
Tuticorin Smelter 400 ktpa

Aluminium Sector
Lanjigarh Debottlenecking 1.0mtpa
Lanjigarh Refinery (Phase II) 3.0mtpa

Iron Ore
Sesa Iron Ore mine expansion (36mt)

Total Capex including Capex Flexibility

Total Capex (excluding Cairn)

Total Capex (including Cairn)

Completion time

Phase wise completion

Completed
Completed

1st metal tapping by Q4 FY2014  
of Korba 325 ktpa, 1st unit of 
1,200MW CPP synchronisation  
in Q1 FY2015

Mining to start in FY2014–15
Progressing start in FY2015

Completed
1st unit synchronised in Q3 FY2014

Phasewise completion

Completed

Completion time

Exploration
Exploration

Completion time

EC awaited

Approval pending, on hold
Approval pending, on hold

Approval pending, on hold

46

Capex (US$ Mn)

3,679 

3,679 

164 
973 

1,872 

150 
2,920 

1,769 
2,150 

1,500 

119 

11,617 

FY2014

649 

649 

13 
37 

125 

1 
21 

9 
274 

243 

1 

725 

Capex (US$ Mn) 

 FY2014

Spent to 31 March 2014

Unspent on 31 March 2014

29 
106 

135 

15 
29 

45 

Capex (US$ Mn)

 FY2014

Spent to 31 March 2014

Unspent on 31 March 2014

367 

150 
1,570 

500 

2,587 

14,339 

18,018 

6 

1 
–

–

6 

776 

1,425 

Spent to 31 March 2014

Unspent on 31 March 2014

649 

649 

164 

926 

1,721 

15 

2,500 

1,740 

1,869 

435 

119 

9,489 

23 

96 

119 

129 

77 

810 

155 

1,169 

10,777 

11,427 

3,030 

3,030 

0 

47 

151 

135 

420 

29 

281 

1,065 

–

2,128 

6 

10 

16 

239 

73 

760 

345 

1,418 

3,562 

6,591

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Project capex

Capex in progress

Cairn India

Total Capex (Cairn)

Copper Sector

160MW CPP at Tuticorin

KCM KDMP Project (7.5mtpa)

Aluminium Sector

BALCO-Korba 325ktpa Smelter and  

1,200MW CPP

BALCO-211mt Coal Block

Jharsuguda 1.25mtpa smelter

Power Sector

Talwandi 1,980MW IPP

Zinc Sector

Zinc India (Mines Expansion)

Infrastructure

Vizag general coal berth

Total Capex in Progress

Exploration/Enabling capex

Zinc International-Gamsberg

Western Cluster Liberia

Total Exploration/Enabling Capex

Completion time

Phase wise completion

Completed

Completed

1st metal tapping by Q4 FY2014  

of Korba 325 ktpa, 1st unit of 

1,200MW CPP synchronisation  

in Q1 FY2015

Mining to start in FY2014–15

Progressing start in FY2015

1st unit synchronised in Q3 FY2014

Phasewise completion

Completed

Completion time

Exploration

Exploration

Jharsuguda 2,400MW power plant

Completed

Capex flexibility

Copper Sector

Tuticorin Smelter 400 ktpa

EC awaited

Approval pending, on hold

Approval pending, on hold

Sesa Iron Ore mine expansion (36mt)

Approval pending, on hold

Aluminium Sector

Lanjigarh Debottlenecking 1.0mtpa

Lanjigarh Refinery (Phase II) 3.0mtpa

Iron Ore

Total Capex including Capex Flexibility

Total Capex (excluding Cairn)

Total Capex (including Cairn)

3,679 

3,679 

164 

973 

1,872 

150 

2,920 

1,769 

2,150 

1,500 

119 

11,617 

29 

106 

135 

367 

150 

1,570 

500 

2,587 

14,339 

18,018 

FY2014

649 

649 

13 

37 

125 

1 

21 

9 

274 

243 

1 

725 

15 

29 

45 

6 

1 

–

–

6 

776 

1,425 

Capex (US$ Mn)

Spent to 31 March 2014

Unspent on 31 March 2014

649 

649 

164 
926 

1,721 

15 
2,500 

1,740 
1,869 

435 

119 

9,489 

3,030 

3,030 

0 
47 

151 

135 
420 

29 
281 

1,065 

–

2,128 

Capex (US$ Mn) 

 FY2014

Spent to 31 March 2014

Unspent on 31 March 2014

23 
96 

119 

6 
10 

16 

Completion time

Capex (US$ Mn)

 FY2014

Spent to 31 March 2014

Unspent on 31 March 2014

129 

77 
810 

155 

1,169 

10,777 

11,427 

239 

73 
760 

345 

1,418 

3,562 

6,591

47

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Zinc-Lead-Silver
Pleasing productivity in 
a challenging market

48

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Zinc-Lead-Silver key metrics

Zinc India

Production – Zinc 
mined metal (kt)

870

880

ZLS

Production – 
Refined Zinc (kt)
749

677

Operational review

2013

2014

2013

2014

Production – 
Refined Lead (kt)
130

125

Production – 
Saleable Silver (moz)
12.02

11.24

2013

2014

2013

2014

EBITDA (US$m)

R&R (mt)

Unit costs 
(US$ per tonne)

1,183

1,145

365.1

981

985

348.3

“I’m pleased to report that not only did 
we accomplish record integrated 
production of zinc and lead, but we 
achieved it with a firm grip on unit costs.

Our mine expansion projects continue 
to progress well and we are on track 
to increase mined metal capacity to 
1.2mt over the next five–six years.”

In 2013–14 we recorded:
•  Our highest-ever mined zinc and lead 

production of 880kt.

•  Record integrated silver metal 

production of 9.66moz.

•  Improved operational efficiencies 

driving strong volumes.

•  Stable unit costs, maintaining our 
place in the lowest quartile of the 
global cost curve.

•  Commissioning of Rampura Agucha 
underground and Kayad mines in Q2 
and Q3 respectively.

Over the last 10 years we have 
increased our reserves & resources as 
well as our production capacity by a 
factor of 2.5x. 

Akhilesh Joshi, CEO, Zinc India

“This was a relatively stable year in 
which we focused on maintaining 
production across all three of our assets, 
even though two of them are nearing 
the end of their lives. Production 
was 15% lower as we had a few 
unplanned stoppages during the year.

Our focus is on seeking opportunities 
to extend mine life at existing mines; 
evaluating options to supply feed to 
the Skorpion refinery; and controlling 
costs, which rank in the second 
quartile of the global cost curve.”

Kishore Kumar, CEO, Base Metals - 
Africa 

We are the world’s second 
largest integrated zinc 
producer. Our assets in India 
include the world’s largest 
zinc-lead mine, Rampura 
Agucha and the Sindesar 
Khurd zinc-lead mine with 
its silver-rich ore.

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

Zinc International

Production – 
Refined Zinc (kt)
145

125

EBITDA (US$m)

294.5

213.4

2013

2014

2013

2014

Production – 
Zinc-Lead minted 
metal (kt)
280

239

Unit costs 
(US$ per tonne)

1,167

1,092

2013

2014

2013

2014

49

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Operational review continued
Zinc-Lead-Silver

Zinc – India

ZLS

1
Engineer at Rampura Agucha open pit zinc-lead mine, HZL.

1

HOW WE PERFORMED
Production performance

Production(kt)
  Total Mined metal
Zinc
Lead
  Zinc Refined metal – Total
Integrated
Custom
Lead Refined metal – Total1 
Integrated
Custom
Saleable Silver – Total (m oz)2
Integrated
Custom

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

%
Change3

880
770
110
749
743
6
130
118
12
11.24
9.66
1.58

870
765
106
677
660
17
125
107
18
12.02
9.27
2.75

1.1%
0.7%
4.1%
10.7%
12.6%
(63.5)%
4.0%
10.3%
(33.0)%
(6.5)%
4.3%
(42.7)%

1  Including captive consumption of 7kt v/s 7kt in FY2013–14 v/s FY2012–13.
2  Excluding captive consumption of 1,232 thousand ounces v/s 1,088 thousand ounces in FY2013–14 vs FY2012–13.
3  All change in production figures have been calculated without rounding the number up to 1,000.

Unit costs

Unit costs1 
Zinc (US$ per tonne)
Zinc (Other than Royalty) (US$ per tonne)

1  With IFRIC 20 impact.

50

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

985
824

981
818

%  
Change

0.4%
0.7%

Operations
We were pleased with our mining 
performance during the year with each 
key area showing record output.

At 880,000 tonnes, mined metal production 
showed an increase of 1.1%. Production 
in the second half of FY2014 was lower 
than what we had planned initially due 
to slower than expected ramp up of 
underground mining projects and changes 
in mining sequence, wherein preference 
was given to primary mine development.

The integrated production of refined 
zinc was 743,000 tonnes. This 12.6% 
increase over the previous year was driven 
by three main factors: higher mined 
metal production, improved operational 
efficiencies and higher roaster availability.

There were no sales of Zinc MIC whereas 
61,000 tonnes were sold in FY2012–13. 
Integrated production of refined lead 
was up 10.3% at 118,000 tonnes due to 
better utilisation of smelter capacity.

Integrated production of silver achieved 
a record 9.66moz for the financial year. 
This was up 4.3%, driven by higher output 
from the Zawar mine, partially offset by 
lower silver grade in ore from other mines.

During the year we started the transition 
from open-pit to underground mining 
with higher production from underground 
mines more than making up for the 
tapering of open-cast mines. We have 
gained momentum in terms of primary 
mine development and are optimising 
the eventual transition. This includes 
significant improvements in infrastructure 
development such as production shaft, 
ventilation, communication networking, 
paste fill plant and workshops in our 
major underground mining projects.

We are also skilling-up our operators with 
structured training programmes designed 
to strengthen our underground mine 
organisation. Our team is being reinforced 
by recruiting high-level expatriates for critical 
technical roles in underground mines.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportOur Strategic Priorities
• Brown field expansion of mines to achieve 1.2mtpa 

of mined zinc-lead

• Managing the transition from open-pit to 
underground mining at Rampura Agucha

• Ramping up silver volumes to 16moz
• Asset optimisation and operational efficiencies to 

maintain cost leadership

• Continuing focus on adding reserves and resources 

through exploration

2

LME zinc prices averaged US$1,909 per 
tonne compared to US$1,948 per tonne in 
the same period in FY2012–13. Lead and 
silver prices also followed the same trend 
and reduced by 1% and 29.8% respectively.

Unit costs
During FY2013–14, the unit cost of zinc 
production was marginally higher at 
US$985 per tonne. This was due to higher 
volumes and the depreciation of the 
Indian rupee partially offset by despite 
lower by-product sulphuric acid prices 
and higher petroleum prices which were 
partially offset by the depreciation of 
the Indian rupee and higher volumes.

The business remains in the lowest cost 
quartile compared with other global 
producers, backed by high quality 
assets and operational efficiencies.

Financial performance
EBITDA for FY2013–14 decreased to 
US$1,145.0 million, compared with 
US$1,182.5 million during FY2012–13.

Despite enjoying record volumes of zinc, 
lead and silver, and the depreciation 
of the Indian rupee, EBITDA declined 
marginally due to lower metal prices and 
lower by-product credits. The price of zinc 
was down by 2.0% over the year, while 
lead reduced by 1.0% and silver fell by 
29.8%. EBITDA for silver was US$188.0 
million, 31% lower than FY2012–13.

Markets
Zinc
Global zinc demand grew at ~4% in 2013 
to 13.3 million mt, up from 12.8 million mt 
the previous year. Zinc metal supply fell 
short of demand by 2%, even though global 
production recovered from the sharp decline 
witnessed in 2012. Consequently, the refined 
metal market remained in deficit for the year.

The tightness in the physical zinc 
market has firmed up premiums and 
it is anticipated that this upward trend 
will continue in the near future.

We currently hold an 89% share of 
the Indian domestic market, where 
strong growth in 2013 was driven 
mainly by the galvanizing sector. This 
momentum is expected to continue 
in the next few years as investment in 
infrastructure projects underpins demand 
for industrial metals including zinc.

Lead
The global lead metal market was in 
surplus in 2013, driven by higher Chinese 
production. It reached 11.2 million mt 
compared to demand of 11.1 million mt.

The market is anticipated to shift into 
deficit in 2014 as demand growth 
remains robust but lead production is 
hampered by weak mine supply and 
stringent environmental regulations.

India is the second most important 
growth prospect in the Asian region with 
demand growth estimated at close to 
7%. We have approximately 50% of 
primary lead market share in India.

Lead

Average Zinc LME cash settlement prices US$/T
Average Lead LME cash settlement prices US$/T
Average Silver prices US$/ounce

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

1,909
2,092
21.4

1,948
2,113
30.5

%  
Change

(2.0)%
(1.0%)
(29.8%)

2
Night view of Chanderiya smelting complex, HZL.

Projects
The Kayad and Rampura Agucha 
underground mine projects commenced 
commercial production during the year. 
After initial difficulties, both are now 
ramping up well. We are also evaluating 
optimisation of the Rampura Agucha 
open pit, to ensure consistent output 
from the mine. The Sindesar Khurd 
expansion project is on schedule.

During the year, total mine development 
increased by over 75%, marking the 
beginning of the transition from 
open-cast to underground mining.

Capital expenditure for the year was 
US$243.0 million and we expect it to 
remain in the US$250.0 million range 
annually in the coming years.

Exploration
In FY2013–14, there was a gross addition 
to reserves and resources (‘R&R’) of 26.1 
million tonnes, prior to a depletion of 9.3 
million tonnes. Zinc-lead metal increased 
by 1.1 million tonnes, prior to depletion of 
0.9 million tonnes. Total R&R at 31 March 
2014 were 365.1 million tonnes, containing 
35.2 million tonnes of zinc-lead metal and 
926 million ounces of silver. The overall 
mine life continues to be 25+ years.

THE COMING YEAR
Outlook
Rampura Agucha will continue to 
provide the majority of mined metal in 
FY2014–15. Its underground mine is now 
developing in line with expectations. In 
FY2014–15, mined metal, and integrated 
refined metal production including silver, 
is expected to be marginally higher than 
in FY2013–14. The cost of production 
is expected to remain stable.

51

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014ZLS

Our Strategic Priorities
• Focusing on increasing the mine 
life of assets through in-pit and 
near-pit drilling and continued 
exploration

• Completing the feasibility studies 

currently in progress for the 
Gamsberg and Swartberg

• Completing the feasibility study for 
the refinery conversion project to 
co-treat sulphide ore at Skorpion
• The phased closure of the Lisheen 

mine

HOW WE PERFORMED
Production performance 
Our total production of zinc, lead MIC and 
zinc refined metal stood at 364,000 tonnes, 
15.0% lower than the 426,000 tonnes 
produced in FY2012–13. This was caused by 
an unplanned maintenance shut down at 
Skorpion after a tank failure in Q3 FY2013–
14. Accidents at Lisheen and BMM in Q1 
FY2013–14 also impacted the production.

Markets
As stated earlier the global market including 
the south African market is seeing a rise in 
demand due to higher consumption and 
thereby leading to higher premiums.

Unit costs
We saw an increase in the unit cost of 
production to US$1,167 per tonne, up from 
US$1,092 per tonne in FY2012–13. This 
was mainly driven by lower production 
due to lower ore grades and increasing 
treatment and refining charges.

Operational review continued
Zinc-Lead-Silver

Zinc – International
A stable performance with 
production challenges.

1

3

2

1
Stacker reclaimer  
at Skorpion Zinc,  
Zinc International.

2
Skorpion open  
cast zinc mine,  
Zinc International.

3
Night view of Lisheen 
Talilings management 
facility, Zinc International.

52

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportFinancial performance
EBITDA for FY2013–14 was US$213.4 
million, 27.5% lower than the previous 
year. Operating profit was US$76.1 
million, down by 31.2%. This was the 
result of lower volumes, lower zinc 
and lead prices, and higher costs.

THE COMING YEAR
Outlook
The Lisheen mine is scheduled for closure 
in FY2014–15 and we are looking at further 
exploration opportunities. At Skorpion 
and BMM, we are conducting studies to 
extend mine life. We are also evaluating 
the installation of a roaster at the Skorpion 
refinery to treat sulphide ores from 
BMM and other neighbouring mines.

We expect volumes for FY2014–15 at 
Zinc International to remain in line with 
FY2013–14, with a drop in Lisheen’s 
production expected to be compensated 
by Skorpion and BMM. However, in the 
coming fiscal, all the three operations 
are experiencing declining ore grades 
and Skorpion, in particular, would 
witness a major increase in strip ratio to 
expose the ore for future production.

4

4
Aerial view of Skorpion smelting facility, Zinc International.

Production performance

Total production (kt)
Production – Zinc (kt)
  Mined metal content BMM and Lisheen
Refined metal Skorpion
Production – Lead (kt)
  Mined metal content

Unit costs

Zinc (US$per tonne) CoP

Financial performance

Revenue
EBITDA
EBITDA Margin
Depreciation
Acquisition related amortisation
Operating (Loss)/Profit before special items
Share in Group operating profit %
Capital Expenditure
Sustaining
Growth

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% 
Change

364

180
125

59

426

(15.0)%

208
145

(13.5)%
(14.0)%

72

(18.9)%

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

1,167

1,092

%  
Change

6.9%

(in US$million, except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

661.4
213.4
32.3%
90.3
47.0
76.1
3.5%
44.6
29.3
15.3

797.2
294.5
36.9%
122.5
61.4
110.6
4.4%
35.5
27.4
8.1

% 
Change

(17.0)%
(27.5)%
–
(26.3)%
(23.5)%
(31.2)%
–
25.6%
6.9%
88.9%

53

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Oil & Gas
A landmark year with  
record production

54

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Oil & Gas key metrics

O&G

Operational review 

continued

Production – 
Average daily 
gross operated 
production (boepd)

218,651

205,323

R&R 
(bn boe in place)

7.3

7.3

2013

2014

2013

2014

EBITDA (US$m)

2,440.4

2,347.0

Direct operating 
costs (US$/bbl)

3.9

3.3

2013

2014

2013

2014

“With its significance not just to 
our business but to India as a 
whole, it is a pleasure to report 
the excellent contribution of the 
Rajasthan block during FY2013–14. 

During the year we achieved: 
•  record full year gross production up 

by 6.5%, driven by 7% higher 
output at the Rajasthan block

•  the major milestone of 200mmbbls 
of cumulative oil production at 
Rajasthan

•  a gross targeted production rate  
of 200,000boepd in March 2014  
at Rajasthan

We were also pleased to take 
advantage of the revised regulation 
which allows further exploration 
of a producing asset. We therefore 
re-commenced exploration drilling 
in the Rajasthan block establishing 
six discoveries and adding over 1 
billion barrels of oil & gas in-place 
resources. Going forward, we continue 
to remain focused on executing 
multiple projects especially in 
Barmer Basin, by deploying talent 
and technology to achieve world 
class recovery and discovery rates.

In all, a satisfying year and one 
that augurs well for continuing 
productivity in FY2014–15.”

Sudhir Mathur, CFO & Acting CEO

Cairn India is the fastest 
growing energy company in 
the world (Platts Top 250 
Global Energy Company 
Rankings 2013) with assets 
including the Rajasthan block, 
the largest onshore discovery 
in India in 20 years.

55

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Operational review continued
Oil & Gas

1

1 Raageshwari gas terminal at Rajasthan, Cairn India.

HOW WE PERFORMED 
Production performance 

Unit

boepd
boepd
boepd
boepd
bopd
mmscfd
boepd
bopd
mmscfd
mboe
mboe

Gross production
Rajasthan
Ravva
Cambay 
Oil 
Gas
Net production-working interest
Oil
Gas
Gross production
Working interest production

Financial performance

Revenue
EBITDA
EBITDA Margin
Depreciation
Acquisition related amortisation
Operating (Loss)/Profit
Share in group operating profit %
Capital expenditure
Sustaining
Projects

Market

Average Brent Prices – US$/barrel

56

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

218,651
181,530
27,386
9,735
209,378
56
137,127
134,116
18
79.8
50.1

205,323
169,390
29,161
6,772
195,780
57
127,843
125,306
15
74.9
46.7

%  
Change

6.5%
7.2%
(6.1)%
43.8%
6.9%
(2.4)%
7.3%
7.0%
18.7%
6.5%
7.3%

(in US$ million, except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

3,092.8
2,347.0
75.9%
692.4
721.0
933.6
40.8
649.4
–
649.4

3,223.4
2,440.4
75.7%
600.4
834.5
1,005.4
40.0
423.6
–
423.6

% 
Change

(4.1)%
(3.8)%

15.3%
(13.6)%
(7.1)%

53.3%
–
53.3%

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% 
Change

107.6

110.1

(2.3)%

O&G

Our Strategic Priorities
• Rajasthan development:

– Sustaining production at MBA 
fields through EOR, drilling 
campaign and facilities upgrade
– Application of North American 
model to target world class 
recovery at Barmer Hill 

– Leverage gas potential through 
step-wise development ramp-up

• Increase recovery from mature 
assets through infill drilling and 
technology adoption

• Continue exploration and appraisal 
programme across the portfolio, 
with a sharper focus on Rajasthan
• Pursue for extension of Production 

Sharing Contracts

Operations
Cairn India achieved average gross 
production of 218,651 barrels of oil 
equivalent per day (boepd) during 
FY2013–14, 6.5% higher than the previous 
year. During the year, the Company’s 
operations helped reduce the nation’s 
dependence on oil imports to the tune 
of US$7.5 billion, and contributed over 
US$4.0 billion to the exchequer.

In Rajasthan, the Company successfully 
achieved its target for FY2013–14 of 
production of 200,000boepd, in March. 
During the quarter, the block produced 
17.2mmboe of oil equivalent, achieving 
record total production for the year of 
66.3mmboe. In the process, the block 
also reached a landmark cumulative 
crude oil production milestone of 
200mmbbls for the year. As at 31 March, 
the cumulative total production from 
Rajasthan stood at ~216mmboe.

A total of 129 new wells were brought 
into production during the year, with 
45 wells added in Q4 FY2013–14. This 
has led to the block achieving gross 
average production of 181,530boepd for 
FY2013–14, up 7% Year-on-Year (‘YoY’).

In FY2013–14, Development Area (‘DA’) 
1, comprising the Mangala, Aishwariya, 
Saraswati and Raageshwari oil and gas fields, 
produced a gross average 156,662boepd, up 
6% YoY. The Mangala field was the largest 
contributor, with the Aishwariya field adding 
to volume growth. During the year, DA 2, 
comprising the Bhagyam field, produced a 
gross average of 24,867boepd, up 15% YoY 
as a result of the infill drilling programme.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportIn FY2013–14, production at Cambay was 
44% higher YoY at 9,735boepd, due to the 
infill drilling campaign that was completed in 
FY2012–13. Production at Ravva was lower 
in FY2013–14 at 27,386boepd, although 
recovery rates continue to exceed 47%.

At Rajasthan, we are focused on 
infrastructure development for the early 
monetisation of exploration success and 
improved reservoir recovery through EOR, 
infill drilling and facilities upgrades.

Market
The year saw a rise in the global demand 
for oil, driven mainly by increasing 
demand in non-OECD countries and by 
the general economic recovery in the 
developed world in the second half of 
2013 (source: IEA report, February 2014).

Demand increased to 91.3mb/d, a rise of 
1.4% over 2012. However, global supply 
reached 91.5mb/d, an increase of 0.7% 
YoY. The US shale revolution dominated 
production growth in North America, 
while production in OPEC countries was 
lower by 2.1% due to several disruptions 
in the second half of the year.

Average Brent prices for the year were lower 
by 2.3% at US$107.6/bbl as compared to 
FY2012–13. It reached a high of ~US$118/
bbl and a low of ~97/bbl during the fiscal. 

In 2014, oil prices are expected to be 
stable. Consumption is expected to grow 
but it is the balance of supply between 
OPEC and non-OPEC producers that will 
be the key driver of oil price movement.

Financial performance
Despite the positive impact of higher 
volumes, Revenue was offset by higher 
profit sharing with the Government 
of India (‘GoI’) in DA 1 as a result of 
tranche change and lower realisations. 
This led to a lower EBITDA of US$2,347.0 
million, and a reduced operating profit 
for the period of US$933.6 million. 

Direct operating expenses (including 
transportation) relating to the Rajasthan 
field increased to US$3.9/bbl for the year, 
compared with US$3.3/bbl last year.

Exploration
Rajasthan
During the year, Cairn India has added 
significant oil-in-place resources of over 1 
billion boe to the existing 4.2 billion boe. Out 
of the 17 wells drilled since the resumption 
of exploration in 2013, over 80% have 
shown hydrocarbons and the Company has 
established six discoveries (2 in Q4 FY2013–
14 and 1 in April 2014). In addition, 266km2 

(14%) of the planned 1,900km2 of 3D 
seismic data acquisition has been completed.

Ravva
The drilling of this ‘high temperature, high 
pressure’ prospect reached a depth of 
2,720m as at 31 March, 2014. Although 
the campaign has witnessed some weather 
and operational challenges, the Company 
expects to complete the drilling activity 
before the onset of the monsoons.

KG Onshore
The extended flow test on the Nagayalanka-
1z-ST appraisal well was completed in 
March 2014 and the maximum combined 
flow rate achieved was ~850bopd.

Other Indian assets
In KG Offshore, 1,050km2 of 3D seismic 
data is expected to be acquired over the 
course of FY2014–15. The tender has been 
awarded for acquisition of ~2,000 line km of 
2D seismic in the Mumbai Offshore block.

International assets
In Sri Lanka, discussions are ongoing 
with the Sri Lankan Government 
regarding commercial terms to 
monetise the discovered In-place gas 
resources of 73mmboe on the block. 

In South Africa, acquisition of 1,981km2 
of 3D seismic and 3,000 line km of 
2D seismic data has been completed 
and processing is under way.

Development
The ongoing capex programme is focused 
on exploration and development activities 
across all the assets, with 87% of the 
budget to be invested in the Rajasthan 
block over the next three years. 

As part of this programme, plans for the 
redevelopment of the Raageshwari Deep 
Gas field, implementation of the full field 
polymer flood EOR in the Bhagyam field, 
and better reservoir performance of the 
Aishwariya field have all contributed 
to a net addition of ~50mmboe to 2P 
reserves. This has resulted in a 2P Reserve 
Replacement Ratio of ~100% for FY2014.

The Company is embarking on the 
implementation of three major 
development projects in the Rajasthan 
block with a net capex of US$2.4 
billion over the next three years:
•  Enhanced Oil Recovery (‘EOR’) project 

including a drilling campaign and facilities 
upgrade: Net Capex – US$1.6 billion
 – We are targeting the first polymer 
injection in the Mangala field EOR 
project within FY2014–15 and have 
awarded all contracts for the execution

 – The polymer flood EOR plan is in place 

for the Bhagyam field and JV alignment 
is under way. Plans are being prepared 
to extend the polymer flood EOR to the 
Aishwariya field

 – The Alkaline Surfactant Polymer pilot at 

Mangala has commenced

•  Barmer Hill development: Net Capex–

US$0.6 billion
 – Exploration results confirm BH potential 

across the block

 – We are replicating the North American 
development model to scale up the 
development

 – Satellite fields are to be put into 

production through the Integrated Block 
Development Policy (‘IDP’). Raag-S-1, 
the 26th discovery in DA 1, was brought 
into test production within a year of 
discovery

•  Gas development: Net Capex –  

US$0.2 billion
 – Development of the Raageshwari Deep 

Gas field is under way

 – Upgrading the RDG terminal to higher 
capacity and plans to create higher 
capacity pipeline infrastructure are 
ongoing in order to monetise the 
additional gas potential in the block

THE COMING YEAR
Outlook
The Company will continue to focus 
on key development projects aimed at 
enhancing recovery rates, supported 
by an overall planned net capex 
of US$3.0 billion by FY2017. 

We are targeting a reserve-replacement 
ratio of 150% in the next three years, 
subject to a PSC extension. We are also 
looking to deliver a three-year production 
CAGR of 7–10% from known discoveries 
with flat production in FY2014–15. 

Further exploration activity across 
the portfolio will provide additional 
upside value and momentum, and 
adopting technology will support low-
cost operations and development.

The industry is looking forward to future 
growth opportunities in India, from the 
PSC extension policy, the fiscal model for 
the next round of auctions and the shale 
gas policy for pre-NELP and NELP blocks. 

57

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Iron Ore
Starting to return to work

58

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Iron Ore key metrics

Fe

Operational review 

continued

Production1 (mt)

R&R – India (mt)

3.7

433

431

1.5

2013

2014

2013

2014

EBITDA (US$m)

84.9

(24.2)

2013

2014

1  Production at Karnataka suspended until December 2013 and 

suspended for the full financial year at Goa.

As an established mining company 
and employer, and with many 
years of responsible operations 
behind us, we hope for a return to 
sustainable mining at both sites.”

Pramod Unde and AN Joshi,  
Interim Management Committee

“It is encouraging that a more 
positive climate for the iron ore 
sector started to emerge in the 
later part of this reporting year.

State-wide bans on mining have 
been in place in both Karnataka 
and Goa. However, late in 2013 the 
ban was lifted in Karnataka and we 
were able to restart operations there 
in December. The ban in Goa was 
also lifted by the Supreme Court, 
with conditions, in April 2014 and 
we are working with the relevant 
authorities on resuming operations.

We are the largest private 
sector producer of iron ore 
in India, and have over 
3 billion tonnes deposit 
in Liberia, West Africa.

59

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Operational review continued
Iron Ore

Fe

1

HOW WE PERFORMED
Production performance 

Production
Saleable ore (mt)
Goa
Karnataka
Pig iron (kt)
Sales
  Iron ore (mt)
Goa
Karnataka
  Pig iron (kt)

Financial performance

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

%  
Change

1.5
–
1.5
510

0.0
–
0.0
544

3.7
3.7
0.0
308

(59.4)%
(100)%
–
65.6%

3.1
(99.1)%
3.0 (100.0)%
(74.2)%
0.1
97.6%
275

(in US$ million, except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% 
Change

Revenue
EBITDA
EBITDA Margin
Depreciation
Acquisition related amortisation 
Operating (Loss)/Profit before special items
Share in Group operating profit %
Capital Expenditure
Sustaining
Growth

60

267.1
(24.2)
(9.1%)
33.9
11.9
(70.0)
(3.1)%
43.6
14.1
29.5

442.5

(39.6)%
84.9 (128.5)%
–
(23.1)%
(70.4)%
–

19.2%
44.1
40.2
0.6
0.0%
128.1
49.3
78.8

(66.0)%
(71.4)%
(62.6)%

Our Strategic Priorities
• Resuming mining in Goa
• Continuing to add to reserves and 
resources by active exploration in 
existing brown field areas
• Infrastructure options for the 

Liberia mining project

Operations – Goa
Through its order dated 21 April 2014, the 
Honourable Supreme Court (‘The Court’) 
lifted the ban on mining in the State of 
Goa, subject to certain conditions.

The ruling imposed an interim restriction 
on the maximum annual excavation from 
the mining leases in the State of Goa. This 
restriction (of 20 million tonnes) was subject 
to a determination of final capacity by the 
Expert Committee appointed by the court.

The Court also ruled that all mining leases 
in the State of Goa, including those of Sesa 
Sterlite, expired in 2007. Consequently, 
no mining operations can be carried out 
until the renewal and execution of mining 
lease deeds by the State Government. 
At the close of the reporting year the 
Company was working towards securing 
the necessary permissions to resume 
operations at the earliest opportunity.

The Court further directed that the entire 
sale value arising out of the e-auction of 
inventories should be appropriated for 
various purposes specified in the order, with 
only the average cost of excavation of iron 
ores to be paid to the mining lessees.

Further, all sales of iron ore will attract 
a payment of 10% of the sale price 
to be made by all lessees to the 
Goa Iron Ore Permanent Fund.

In Goa, we participated in e-auctions 
of inventory and sold 0.3 million 
tonnes during the quarter; however, 
these were not accounted for in this 
reporting year as sales since delivery 
did not take place during the quarter.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report1
Transhipment of iron ore, 
Sesa Sterlite.

2
Engineer at laboratory 
at iron ore operations, 
Sesa Sterlite.

3
Dry screening for ore 
processing at Goa, 
Sesa Sterlite.

The production volumes of pig iron (+66%) 
and metallurgical coke (+23%) were 
significantly higher, at 510,000 tonnes and 
408,000 tonnes respectively. These increases 
are primarily due to the commissioning of 
new pig iron capacity and the associated 
metallurgical coke facilities in FY2012–13.

2

3

Operations – Karnataka
Following the clearance from the Court 
to resume operations at Karnataka, we 
optimised our approved capped annual 
capacity of mining at the site. Operations 
restarted on 28 December 2013 and 
resulted in production of 1.5 million tonnes 
in this reporting year. However, only 
27,000 tonnes were sold during the year.

Market
World steel production in 2013 was 4.2% 
higher than in 2012, standing at a total of 
1.6 billion tonnes. This significant growth 
was driven mainly by a 66 million tonne 
increase in China’s steel production.

World steel consumption in 2013 is 
estimated to have increased by 2.9% to a 
total of 1.59 billion tonnes. The chief driver 
of this growth was a 6% increase in China’s 
consumption as the country continued to 
be the world’s largest consumer of steel.

In 2014, India’s steel consumption is 
also forecast to grow; a 5% increase 
is projected as a result of government 
spending on infrastructure and a higher 
demand for consumer durables.

Iron ore spot prices averaged US$126 
(FOB) a tonne, an increase of 3.4% over 
the previous year. Spot prices have been 
declining through the last quarter of 
FY2013–14 and are not expected to recover 
to their previously high levels. This is due 
to the increased availability of supplies 
from new mines starting up in 2015.

Financial performance
EBITDA in FY2013–14 was US$(24.2) 
million, compared with US$84.9 million in 
the previous year. This negative EBITDA was 
mainly due to the continued mining ban in 
Goa, and the ban in Karnataka prior to the 
Court lifting it in December 2013. Operating 
profit was US$(70.0) million in FY2013–14.

Liberia project
We are currently working with the 
government of Liberia on infrastructure 
solutions for evacuation of the ore 
once mining operations starts.

Reserves & resources
We have identified significant and 
potentially low cost ‘start-up’ ores at all 
three Liberian projects, with tailings at Bomi 
and soft weathered cap ore at Bea and 
Mano. Initial studies indicate that these 
are resources that are easy to process. 
These resources have potential for further 
enhancement with more exploration.

THE COMING YEAR
Outlook
We are engaging with the State 
Government and MoEF to gain approvals 
for starting mining on our leases in Goa, 
and we expect production to start in 
the second half of the financial year.

61

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Copper
A stop-start year

62

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Copper key metrics

Cu

Operational review 

continued

Copper India and Australia
Production – Copper 
Cathodes (kt)

Production – Copper 
mined metal (kt)

353

294

26

18

2013

2014

2013

2014

EBITDA (US$m)

219.1

197.9

Unit costs 
(US cents per lb)

9.7

8.7

2013

2014

2013

2014

Copper Zambia
Production – Mined
metal (kt)

159

128

Production – 
Finished Copper (kt)

216

177

2013

2014

2013

2014

Unit costs 
(US cents per lb)

255.1

238.4

EBITDA (US$m)

257.3

156.3

2013

2014

2013

2014

“Looking back over the reporting 
year, we experienced a mixture 
of progress and challenges.

We underwent a temporary closure at 
the Tuticorin smelter and also had to 
suspend operations at our Australian 
mine due to a mud rush. However, we 
were pleased to restart the Tuticorin 
smelter at the end June 2013 and 
see it ramped up to full capacity and 
to commission the second unit of 
the captive power plant in Tuticorin. 
These positive developments 
augur well for the current year.”

P Ramnath, CEO, Copper India
Kishore Kumar, CEO, Base Metals – 
Africa

“The Konkola underground mine has 
one of the largest high-grade ore 
bodies in the world, and Vedanta 
has been channelling resources, 
experience and talent into realising 
its considerable potential.

During the year, production was 
affected by unscheduled stoppages. 
As a team we are focusing on 
measures to improve productivity 
and operational efficiencies in order 
to deliver increased volumes. With 
my 20 years of experience in African 
resource development, I am excited 
about the opportunity at KCM as 
we overcome our current challenges 
and look forward to working with 
the Government of Zambia as a 
partner and a key stakeholder.”

Kishore Kumar, CEO, Base Metals – 
Africa
Steven Din, CEO, Copper Zambia

We have one of the 
lowest cost custom 
smelters in the world at 
Tuticorin in India, with 
our Australian mines 
supplying part of our 
copper concentrate 
requirements of our 
Indian operations.

63

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Operational review continued
Copper

India and Australia

Cu

1

HOW WE PERFORMED
Production performance

Production (kt)
  India – Cathode
  Australia – Mined metal content

Market

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

294
18

353
26

(16.6)%
(31.5)%

Average LME cash settlement prices (US$ per tonne)
Realised TCs/RCs (US cents per lb)

7,103
16.6

7,853
12.8

(9.6)%
30.0%

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

Unit costs

Unit conversion costs (CoP) – (US cents per lb)

9.7

8.7

12.0%

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

64

Operations
Production during the year was affected 
by two main events. In January 2014 
operations at our Australian mine 
were suspended following a mud rush 
incident. We are working with Work Safe 
Tasmania to resume once operating 
practices have been modified.

Our Tuticorin smelter also had to be 
temporarily suspended, post favourable 
order of National Green Tribunal, the smelter 
restarted in end June 2013. As a result, our 
copper cathode production was reduced 
by 16.6% to 294,000 tonnes. However, 
when operations were restarted the smelter 
operated at its full rated capacity.

In March 2014, the Company received 
the long-awaited regulatory approval 
for the second unit of the 2 x 80MW 
power plant in Tuticorin. We duly 
commissioned the unit which generated 
25 million units over the year.

Market
The year saw the average LME copper 
price fall by 9.6% while treatment and 
refining charges (TCs/RCs) increased 
by 30% compared to 2012.

Global refined copper production 
in 2013 was 21 million tonnes, an 
increase of 3.2% over 2012, with global 
consumption growing by 5.6%.

Global copper mine production improved 
considerably from the third quarter of 
FY2013–14 as stable operations continued. 
This led to an increase in availability of 
copper concentrates with attendant 
higher TCs/RCs. Annual market settlement 
of TCs/RCs for supplies in the calendar 
year 2014 saw an increase of around 
31% over the market terms in 2013.

The premiums also rose significantly in 
the international markets in Q3 and Q4 
due to supply disruptions and increased 
demand from customers in China. 
The annual premiums for 2014 have 
risen over 50% compared to 2013.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportOur Strategic Priorities
• Sustaining operating efficiencies and cost leadership at 

copper smelting operations

• Implementing a safe way to resume mining and 
production in the Mt. Lyell district in Australia

1
Night view of Tuticorin smelting complex, Sesa Sterlite.

2
Molten metal at Tuticorin smelter, Sesa Sterlite.

3
Copper rods, Sesa Sterlite.

Consumption in the Indian primary copper 
market increased slightly in 2013, although 
our share of the refined copper market fell 
due to production disruption experienced 
in Q1. We currently hold a 29% share of the 
refined domestic market. The demand for 
refined copper in India is expected to grow 
to 2 million tonnes by 2030, representing a 
Compounded Annual Growth Rate (‘CAGR’) 
of approximately 7%. Indian copper demand 
will be driven by investments in infrastructure 
projects, development of power generation 
capacities and continued urbanisation.

Unit costs
In the Tuticorin smelter, cost of 
production (‘CoP’) increased from 8.7 
US cents per/lb to 9.7 US cents per/
lb, mainly due to lower volumes and 
significantly lower by-product credits.

TCs/RCs have improved significantly 
– by 30% – compared to last year.

In FY2013–14, the unit cost of production 
at our Australian operations, including 
TCs/RCs and freight, was 240 US cents 
per lb; this was up from 220 US cents in 
the previous year, due to lower volumes 
and lower by-product credits.

Financial performance
EBITDA for FY2013–14 was US$197.9 
million compared with US$219.1 million 
in the previous year. This reduction was 
mainly driven by lower profit from our 
Australian operations due to the suspension 
of operations in Q4 FY2013–14. Higher CoP 
at our Indian operations, lower volumes 
partially offset by higher TCs/RCs.

Operating profit was US$155.7 
million in FY2013–14, down from 
US$175.9 million the previous year.

2

3

Financial performance

Revenue
EBITDA
EBITDA Margin
Depreciation and Amortisation
Operating (Loss)/Profit before special items
Share in Group operating profit %
Capital Expenditure
Sustaining
Growth

Outlook
At Copper India, the Tuticorin smelter 
underwent a planned 22-day maintenance 
shutdown, starting on 26 April 2014. 
This came after a record campaign life 
of 45 months and we are now targeting 
improved plant availability and reliability. 
Mine production at our Australian 
mine is expected to start in a staged 
manner and at lower volumes, once 
regulatory approvals are received.

(in US$ million, except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

3,404.8
197.9
5.8%
42.1
155.7
7.2
56.2
37.3
18.9

3,991.1
219.1
5.5%
43.2
175.9
6.9
89.4
47.6
41.8

(14.6)%
(9.7)%
–
(2.5)%
(11.5)%

(37.1)%
(21.6)%
(54.8)%

65

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Operational review continued
Copper

Cu

Zambia

1

HOW WE PERFORMED
Production performance

Production (kt)
Mined Metal
Finished Copper
  Integrated
  Custom

Unit costs (integrated production)

C1 cash costs (US cents per lb)1
Total cash costs (US cents per lb)2

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

%  
Change

128
177
124
53

159
216
160
56

(19.2)%
(18.1)%
(22.3)%
(5.8)%

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

238.4
334.0

255.1
354.0

% 
Change

(6.5)%
(5.6)%

1   C1 cash cost, excludes royalty, logistics, depreciation, interest, sustaining Capex.
2  Total cash cost includes sustaining Capex.

66

Strategic priorities
• Ramping up mine development at 

Konkola to realise its ore production 
potential

• Optimising the blend and 

throughput of feed to the Tailings 
Leach Plant for higher production
• Realising cost efficiency, driven by 
volume growth and other measures

• Improving productivity

Operations
The year saw mined metal production 
fall by 19.2% in FY2013–14 
compared to the previous year.

This was mainly due to the suspension 
of mining operations in January 2013 at 
the Chingola open pit mine (‘COP F&D’). 
Konkola production was also affected by 
the temporary closure of shafts 1 & 4 due 
to safety and the integrity and availability 
of equipment. Mined metal production 
also included tailings leach plant primary 
copper production of 56,000 tonnes.

Copper custom production was lower 
by 5.8%, constrained by blending 
challenges and by an ongoing issue 
regarding the recovery of VAT credits. 
On this latter point we are in discussions 
with the Zambian Government on 
this pressing industry-wide matter.

Markets
KCMs traditional markets in Asia and 
the Middle East experienced improved 
demand in the latter half of the year, 
leading to improvement in premium in 
the annual negotiations for CY2014.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report1
Operations at Konkola underground mine, KCM.

2
Conveyor leading to KDMP headgear of shaft #4, KCM.

2

Financial performance

Revenue
EBITDA
EBITDA Margin
Depreciation and amortisation
Operating (Loss)/Profit before special items
Share in group operating profit (%)
Capital expenditure
Sustaining
Growth

(in US$ million, except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

1,271.4
156.3
12.3%
171.5
(15.3)
(0.7)
150.9
114.2
36.7

1,742.8
257.3
14.8%
193.7
63.6
2.5
259.8
171.4
88.4

(27.0)%
(39.3)%
–
(11.5)%
(124.1)%
–
(41.9)%
(33.4)%
(58.5)%

Progress against strategic priorities

Transforming the water footprint 
at Copper Zambia

Unit costs (integrated production)
The unit cost of production without royalty, 
logistics, depreciation, interest and sustaining 
capex decreased to 238.4 US cents per lb in 
FY2013–14, 6.5% lower than the previous 
year. This was due to the suspension of 
operations at the high-cost COP F&D 
mine, partially offset by lower volumes.

Financial performance
EBITDA in FY2013–14 was US$156.3 million 
compared with US$257.3 million in the 
previous year, impacted by lower volumes 
and lower metal prices. These factors also 
contributed to a loss of US$89.0 million after 
tax at Copper Zambia during FY2013–14.

THE COMING YEAR
Outlook
At Konkola, we are working to improve 
the trackless equipment’s availability 
and utilisation rates, as well as recruiting 
key underground specialists and trainers. 
Several improvement initiatives and 
technical interventions have been planned 
to bring about a gradual improvement 
in production from current levels. Safety, 
management of underground contractors 
and productivity are the key focus areas.

We are working to secure custom 
concentrates which, when blended with 
integrated production, will enable us to 
run the smelter at the minimum optimum 
level that is technically possible.

2007

Today

Our Copper Zambia operations have made 
significant strides in recent years to 
improve the environmental impact. The 
Konkola Mine is one of the wettest in the 
world so the primary focus has been on 
water: improving quality, reducing 
discharges and increasing recycling.

Over US$5 million has been invested in 
underground water rehabilitation with new 
pumps to handle slurry and desilting, 
decreasing the total suspended solids 
(‘TSS’) in discharged water by an 
impressive 75% in four years. The Pollution 
Control dam has been desilted and 

effluent from the Nkana refinery is being 
treated with the recycled effluent reused 
to wash copper cathodes and water 
vegetation around the mine site, reducing 
monthly domestic water consumption 
significantly by over 50%.

Now, the Kafue River upstream and 
downstream is once again a reliable  
water resource for irrigation, fishing and 
transportation for the communities  
that live along its banks and KCM is 
looking to improve further, targeting  
global best-in-class global environmental 
sustainability standards.

67

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Aluminium
Record production powered  
by improved efficiencies

68

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Aluminium key metrics

Al

Operational review 

continued

Production – 
Alumina (kt)

527

524

Production – 
Aluminium (kt)

774

794

2013

2014

2013

2014

EBITDA (US$m)

Unit costs – Alumina 
(US$ per tonne)

287.3

 353

358

202.6

2013

2014

2013

2014

“We are the largest aluminium 
producer in India and our 
performance in FY2013–14 
consolidated that position.

We achieved:
•  Record aluminium production  

of 794kt

•  Utilisation at rated-capacity for both 
operating smelters (Korba-II and 
Jharsuguda-I)

•  Recommencement of operations  

at our Lanjigarh refinery

•  Considerable improvement in 

operational efficiencies

•  A continuing second quartile 

position on the cost curve, even 
without captive bauxite

•  First metal tapping at the Korba 
325ktpa aluminium smelter

We believe that with the above 
strengths we will be able to address 
the challenges of securing feed 
stock for our aluminium operations 
enabling the completion of our 
projects and ramp up of production. 
This will serve as a powerful 
springboard for the year ahead.”

SK Roongta, CEO, Aluminium

Unit costs – 
Aluminium 
(US$ per tonne)

1,879

1,658

2013

2014

We are the largest 
aluminium producer 
in India, with highly 
efficient smelters 
strategically located 
with integrated 
power.

69

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Operational review continued
Aluminium

Al

1
Aerial view of Jharsuguda smelting complex, Sesa Sterlite.

1

HOW WE PERFORMED
Production performance

Production (kt)
Alumina – Lanjigarh
Aluminium – Jharsuguda
Aluminium – Korba

Total Aluminium

Sale of surplus power (million units)

Unit costs

Alumina Cost

Aluminium production cost
  Jharsuguda CoP
  Jharsuguda smelting cost
  BALCO COP 
  BALCO smelting cost

Market

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

524
542
252

794

126

527
527
247

774

323

(0.6)%
2.9%
2.1%

2.6%

(61.0)%

(US$ per tonne)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

358

1,658
1,602
889
1,781
1,082

353

1,879
1,869
1,090
1,901
1,165

1.4%

(11.8)%
(14.3)%
(18.4)%
(6.3)%
(7.1)%

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% 
Change

Average LME cash settlement prices (US$ per tonne)

1,773

1,974

(10.2)%

70

Operations
Following the resumption of operations 
at our Lanjigarh refinery in July 2013, the 
facility ramped up well and delivered 524kt 
production through to March 2014. In Q4, 
the refinery had a capacity utilisation of 
91%. This resulted in a steady increase of 
alumina feed from Lanjigarh to our smelters, 
contributing to 28% of the smelters’ alumina 
requirements in FY2013–14 and 49% in Q4.

The MoEF rejected the grant of stage II 
forest clearance for the Niyamgiri mining 
project of Odisha Mining Corporation 
Limited (‘OMC’). The area is one of the 
sources in Odisha for the supply of bauxite 
to the alumina refinery at Lanjigarh. As we 
have stated, the Company will not consider 
developing any bauxite resources, including 
the Niyamgiri mines, without the invitation 
and consent of the local communities. 
Certain mining assets (amounting to US$11 
million) which relate to the Niyamgiri 
mines have been charged to the income 
statement as a special item during the year.

A Memorandum of Understanding (‘MoU’) 
with the Government of Odisha (through 
OMC) states that we require 150 million 
tonnes of bauxite. We are actively working 
with the Odisha State Government to agree 
the allocation of other bauxite mines. The 
Company is also considering sourcing bauxite 
from alternative sources to support the 
existing and expanded refinery operations.

With regard to the expansion project 
at Lanjigarh, the Company’s fresh 
application for environmental clearance 
is under consideration. In the meantime 
the expansion plans are on hold.

Production of aluminium in FY2013–14 
was a record 794,000 tonnes, an increase 
of 2.6% compared to the previous 
year. During the year the Jharsuguda-I 
and Korba-II smelters were both 
operating above their rated capacity.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic ReportStrategic priorities
• Securing captive refinery feed to realise the full potential 

of cost efficiencies and increase capacity utilisation
• Securing regulatory approvals for refinery expansion
• Commissioning the unused smelter capacities at BALCO 

and Jharsuguda

• Expediting development of the captive coal block at 

BALCO

Financial performance

Revenue
EBITDA
EBITDA Margin
Depreciation and amortisation
Operating Profit before special items
Share in Group operating profit (%)
Capital Expenditure
Sustaining
Growth

Further MTM foreign exchange losses 
on operational payables were decreased 
by ~US$27.4 million as a result of the 
prudent step of taking forward cover 
on US dollars. This helped to increase 
EBITDA and operating profit was 
also higher at US$112.5 million.

Projects
We commenced operation of the Korba-
III 325kt smelter, achieving first metal 
tapping in Q4. We produced around 900 
tonnes of aluminium with power sourced 
from the BALCO 810MW power plants. 
Of the first 84 pots, 36 pots had been 
started as at 31 March 2014. We can 
support up to 84 pots with the existing 
power plants at BALCO. We expect to ramp 
up the 325ktpa BALCO-III Aluminium 
smelter in Q2 FY2014–15 once the Korba 
1,200MW power plant is operational. The 
first unit of this power plant is expected 
to be synchronized in Q1 FY2014–15.

The Company expects to commence 
mining coal from its Durgapur coal 
block in Chattisgarh once we receive the 
mining lease and lease deed as well as 
the requisite permission from the DGMS/
Coal Controller of Mines, expected by the 
end of Q2. Mining operations are likely to 
commence in Q3 FY2014–15 and excavation 
of coal is expected by Q4 FY2014–15.

Unit costs
Alumina CoP was US$358 per tonne in 
FY2013–2014. The CoP of hot metal 
at Jharsuguda was US$1,602 per 
tonne compared with US$1,869 per 
tonne in the previous year, a 14.3% 
decrease. This was due mainly to the 
decrease in our power costs, driven by 
operational efficiencies, better coal 
mix, reduced specific coal consumption 
and specific power consumption.

At the Korba smelter, the CoP decreased 
to US$1,781 as a result of the depreciation 
of the Indian rupee, although in Indian 
rupee terms the CoP actually increased. 
This was due to increased power costs 
when the agreed coal quota allowances 
tapered by another 25% this year. However, 
this was partially offset by the improved 
operational efficiency of the plant.

Even without captive bauxite, and despite 
having to rely on imported alumina, our 
aluminium operations at Jharsuguda and 
Korba were ranked in the first and second 
quartile of the global cost curve respectively.

Market
Average LME prices for aluminium 
for the year were US$1,773, a decline 
of 10.2% on the previous year’s 
average price level of US$1,974.

Global primary aluminium consumption 
recorded growth of 5.3% to 49 million 
tonnes in 2013 over 2012 (47 million tonnes).
Primary aluminium demand is expected to 
grow by 6% per year during the period 2013 
– 2017, supported by the transport sector 
worldwide and substitutions in favour of 
aluminium. We also anticipate a near-term 
increase in demand from the transport sector 
in 2015. Domestically, investments in the 
infrastructure and transport segments are 
also expected to boost demand. We currently 
have a market share of 48% in India.

Financial performance
EBITDA for FY2013–14 was up by 41.8% 
at US$287.3 million, compared with 
US$202.6 million in the previous year. This 
increase was due to lower CoP, Indian 
rupee depreciation and higher volumes, 
but was also partially offset by lower 
LME prices which dropped by 10%.

(in US$ million, except as stated)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

% Change

1,785.4
287.3
16.1%
174.7
112.5
5.2
165.3
18.3
147.1

1,837.8
202.6
11.0%
191.2
11.4
0.4
424.1
41.2
382.9

(2.9)%
41.8%
–
(8.6)%
–

(61.0)%
(55.6)%
(61.6)%

THE COMING YEAR
Outlook
We are optimistic that our existing facilities 
will continue to operate at above their 
rated capacities in the coming year. We are 
focused on putting the new capacities and 
the associated power plants into operation. 
We are also working on feedstock security in 
terms of bauxite sourcing, alumina sourcing 
and the coal block start-up at BALCO.

We also expect a progressive start-up of new 
pot lines at our Jharsuguda smelter, once 
we have permission from the authorities to 
use power from our 2,400MW power plant.

The resulting increase in volumes, combined 
with operational efficiencies and an 
expected higher proportion of value-added 
products, should provide improved returns.

We are working on securing captive feed 
for the Alumina refinery, but will not 
access Niyamgiri or other deposits without 
the prior consent of local communities. 
We will also work with OMC to help 
them meet their MoU commitment to 
us from other regional resources.

71

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Power
Well placed for  
an upturn in  
demand

72

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Power key metrics

Pwr

Operational review 

continued

Power sales in 
million kwh

10,129

9,374

Unit costs 
(US cents/kwh)

4.1

3.7

2013

2014

2013

2014

EBITDA (US$m)

228.5

168.4

2013

2014

Although the near-term outlook for 
sales remains weak, the completion 
of several steps being taken by 
the Government should enhance 
grid connectivity and the market 
environment for power generators.”

SK Roongta, CEO, Power

“We experienced a period of 
distribution challenges and low 
customer demand that led to 
lower sales even though there was 
unmet end-user demand. Despite 
this, we were generally pleased 
with progress during the year.

We recorded:
•  Increased sales of 7,625 million 

units, up 1% from the previous year, 
from the Jharsuguda 2,400MW 
power plant

•  Synchronisation of the first 660MW 
unit of the 1,980MW Talwandi Sabo 
power plant

We are one of the 
largest independent 
power generators in 
India, with a major 
new plant in Talwandi 
Sabo coming on 
stream this year.

73

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Operational review continued
Power

Pwr

1

HOW WE PERFORMED
Production performance

Power Sales (MU)
MALCO and Wind Energy
BALCO 270MW
Jharsuguda 2,400MW1

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

9,374
1,359
390
7,625

10,129
1,358
1,241
7,530

% 
Change

(7.5)%
0.1%
(68.6)%
1.3%

1  Includes production under trial run nil million units in FY2013–14 vs 795 million units in FY2012–13.

Unit costs

Sales realisation (US cents/Kwh)
Cost of production (US cents/Kwh)

FY2013–14

FY2012–13

%  
Change

5.9
3.7

6.5
4.1

(10.3)%
(10.1)%

74

Strategic priorities
• Enhancing access to power 

transmission facilities

• Working with the Government on 

coal sourcing

• Completing the 1,980MW Talwandi 

Sabo power project

Operations
Overall power sales declined over the year 
to 9,374 million units, a fall of 7.5% on 
the previous year. This was mainly due to 
lower sales by the BALCO 270MW power 
plant, resulting from lower power tariffs 
and weak demand. This was partially 
offset by marginal higher volumes 
from the Jharsuguda 2,400MW power 
plant. It operated at a 40% plant load 
factor (‘PLF’) but was affected by weak 
demand and transmission constraints.

Market
Capacity of more than 23,000MW has 
been added in India over the last five years 
by independent power producers (‘IPPs’). 
This is derived from mainly thermal sources 
at around 68% and renewables at around 
13%. Although this has not exceeded the 
Government’s target, more capacity has 
been added than in the preceding 15 years.
Per capita consumption of electricity in the 
country was about 917.18kwh in 2013.

Unit costs
We saw an improvement in average power 
generation costs in FY2013–14, falling to 
3.7 US cents per unit compared with 4.1 US 
cents per unit in the previous year. This was 
driven by the Indian rupee’s depreciation 
translating into lower costs in US dollar terms.

Average power sales prices were lower in 
FY2013–14 at US cents 5.9 per unit 
compared with US cents 6.5 per unit in the 
previous year.

Financial performance
EBITDA decreased significantly in FY2013–
14 at US$168.4 million compared with the 
previous year’s US$228.5 million, primarily 
as a result of the lower tariff currently being 
recognised from the power supply company 
Gridco in Odisha where the interpretation 
of the tariff agreement is subject to 
ongoing dispute. Other factors like lower 
PLF as a result of lower demand, but better 
variable costs largely offset each other.

Vedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Strategic Report1
Turbine Generator of the 
1,215MW Power Plant, 
Jharsuguda, Sesa Sterlite.

2
Turbine generator, 
Talwandi Sabo project.

As a result operating profit was also reduced 
by 48.1% to US$68.9 million coupled with 
higher depreciation of the Indian rupee.

2

THE COMING YEAR
Projects
The boiler light-up of the first 660MW 
unit of the 1,980MW Talwandi Sabo 
power plant was achieved in Q3, followed 
by the synchronisation. Coal logistics 
were established in Q4 and we expect 
to commence trial runs in Q1 FY2015.

Outlook
We are focused on commissioning and 
ramping-up the Talwandi Sabo power plant.

Our exposure to third party sales will 
reduce as we gradually ramp up our 
Aluminium smelter production at 
Jharsuguda. We also anticipate that with 
the improvement in the economic climate 
and industrial performance generally, 
the demand and hence the open market 
price for power is expected to recover 
significantly in the next few years.

Port Business

We commissioned the Vizag General 
Cargo Berth (‘VGCB’) in Q4 FY2013. There 
has been a continuous increase in the 
tonnage handled at VGCB, and during 
FY2014 we handled 4.7 million tonnes and 
generated an EBITDA of US$4 million.

VGCB is one of the deepest coal terminals 
on the eastern coast of India, which 
enables docking of large Capesize vessels.

75

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Board of Directors

Anil Agarwal (61) Executive Chairman

Background and experience
Mr Agarwal founded the Group in 1976 and has over 35 
years of entrepreneurial and mining experience. He has 
helped to shape the Group’s strategic vision and under 
his leadership, the Group has achieved tremendous 
growth both organically and through value generating 
merger and acquisition activity, creating a world class 
diversified portfolio of large structurally low-cost assets 
which are capable of generating strong cash flow. 

Date of appointment
Mr Agarwal was appointed to the Board in May 2003 
and became the Executive Chairman in March 2005.

Committee membership
Chairman: Nominations Committee.

Navin Agarwal (53) Deputy Executive Chairman

Background and experience
Mr Agarwal has over 25 years of senior management 
experience within the Group. As Chairman of the 
Executive Committee, he has been instrumental in 
driving the execution of the strategy set by the Board. 
He is also responsible for the supervision oversight 
of capital raising initiatives, global investor relations 
and talent development at senior management 
levels. Mr Agarwal has helped to develop a culture of 
continuous improvement with the implementation 
of best management practices across the Group.

Date of appointment
Mr Agarwal was appointed to the Board in 
November 2004 and became the Deputy 
Executive Chairman in June 2005.

Committee membership
Chairman: Executive Committee.

MS Mehta (58) Chief Executive Officer

Background and experience
In March 2014, Mr Mehta stepped down as Chief 
Executive Officer of the Board following his appointment 
in October 2008. Prior to this he held key managerial 
and operating roles within the Vedanta Group, in 
particular, chief executive officer of Hindustan Zinc. Mr 
Mehta has been instrumental in driving several Group 
transformational initiatives. Prior to joining the Group 
in 2000, he held various senior management roles in 
sales, commercial, projects and finance functions in 
the steel industry for over 20 years. Mr Mehta has a 
mechanical engineering degree and a master’s degree 
from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad. 

Date of appointment
Mr Mehta was appointed to the Board in October 
2008 and stepped down on 31 March 2014.

Committee membership
Member: Sustainability and Executive Committees.

Tom Albanese (57) Chief Executive Officer

Background and experience
Effective 1 April 2014, Mr Albanese is appointed the 
Chief Executive Officer and a director of Vedanta 
Resources plc. In September 2013, Mr Albanese was 
appointed Chairman of Vedanta Resources Holdings 
Limited, the holding company of Sesa Sterlite Limited 
and Konkola Copper Mines. He is also a director of 
Franco-Nevada Corporation, a Toronto-based gold 
and metal streaming company. From 2007 to January 
2013, Mr Albanese was chief executive officer of Rio 
Tinto Plc. Mr Albanese joined Rio Tinto in 1993 when 
the company acquired Nerco Minerals, where he was 
chief operating officer from 1989 to 2000. Mr Albanese 
joined Nerco Minerals in 1985 as an analyst, prior 
to working as an engineer from 1981 to 1983 on an 

Alaskan gold project acquired by Nerco. Mr Albanese 
previously served on the boards of Ivanhoe Mines 
Limited, Palabora Mining Company and Turquoise 
Hill Resources Limited. In addition, he is a member of 
the Board of Visitors, Duke University, Fuqua School 
of Business. Mr Albanese holds a bachelor’s degree 
in mineral economics and a master’s degree in 
mining engineering from the University of Alaska. 

Date of appointment
Mr Albanese was appointed to the Board on 1 April 
2014. Mr Albanese was also appointed Chief 
Executive Officer of Vedanta’s main operating 
company, Sesa Sterlite Limited, on 1 April 2014.

76

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Aman Mehta (67) Senior Independent Director and Non-Executive Director

Background and experience
Mr Mehta is currently a non-executive director of Jet 
Airways (India) Limited, Tata Consultancy Services 
Limited, PCCW Limited, Wockhardt Limited, Max 
India Limited, Godrej Consumer Products Limited 
and Cairn India Limited. He is also a member of the 
Board of Governors of the Indian School of Business in 
Hyderabad, India. Mr Mehta had a 36-year career at 
Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (‘HSBC’) 
where he held a number of executive positions such 
as chairman and chief executive officer of HSBC USA 
Inc, deputy chairman of HSBC Bank, Middle East and 
chief executive officer of HSBC Asia Pacific, a position 
he held until his retirement. He was also previously a 
non-executive director of MGF Emaar Limited, ING 

Group N.V. and a director of the Indian Council for 
research on international economic relations. Mr Mehta 
has a degree in economics from Delhi University. Mr 
Mehta has over 30 years of global executive experience 
with a strong financial background and has provided 
effective oversight through rigorous challenge to the 
Board and the Audit Committee in their deliberations.

Date of appointment
Mr Mehta was appointed to the Board in  
November 2004.

Committee membership
Chairman: Audit Committee. 
Member: Nominations and Remuneration Committees.

Euan Macdonald (74) Non-Executive Director

Background and experience
Mr Macdonald has a wealth of corporate and financial 
knowledge having previously spent over 20 years 
with SG Warburg, specialising in emerging market 
finance. From 1995 to 1999, Mr Macdonald was 
chairman of SBC Warburg India, responsible for the 
bank’s activities in India, and from 1999 to 2001 
he was executive vice chairman of HSBC Securities 
and Capital Markets, India. Mr Macdonald has a 
degree in economics from Cambridge University 
and a master’s degree in finance and international 
business from Columbia Business School.

Date of appointment
Mr Macdonald was appointed to the Board in March 
2005.

Committee membership
Member: Audit, Nominations and Remuneration 
Committees.

Geoffrey Green (64) Non-Executive Director

Date of appointment
Mr Green joined the Board in August 2012.

Committee membership
Member: Remuneration Committee.

Background and experience
Mr Green was a partner of a leading international law 
firm, Ashurst LLP from 1983 to 2013, and formerly 
served as Ashurst’s senior partner and chairman of its 
management board for 10 years until 2008. He then 
served as head of the firm’s expanding Asian practice 
from 2009 to 2013, based in Hong Kong. He has a 
wealth of knowledge in respect of the UK corporate 
governance framework and strategic matters, having 
been a legal adviser to several major UK listed companies 
and their boards on a wide variety of corporate and 
governance issues; he brings to the Board a strong 
understanding of UK regulatory and strategic matters. 
Mr Green has a degree in law from Cambridge 
University and qualified as a solicitor at Ashurst LLP. 

Deepak Parekh (70) Non-Executive Director

Date of appointment
Mr Parekh joined the Board in June 2013.

Committee membership
Member: Audit and Nominations Committees.

Background and experience
Mr Parekh is the chairman of Housing Development 
Finance Corporation, India’s leading financial services 
conglomerate with a presence in banking, asset 
management, life insurance, general insurance, 
real estate, venture funds and education loans. He 
is the non-executive chairman of GlaxoSmithkline 
Pharmaceuticals and Siemens, in India. Mr Parekh is 
also on the boards of Exide, Mahindra & Mahindra, 
Indian Hotels and the international board of DP World 
in the UAE. In addition, he is on the advisory boards 
of several Indian and multinational corporations. 
Mr Parekh was the first international recipient of 
the Institute of Chartered Accounts in England and 
Wales outstanding achievement award in 2010.

77

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Senior management team

The Executive Committee and  
senior management team support 
the Board and oversee the 
implementation of the Group’s 
strategic initiatives set by the Board. 
Mr Navin Agarwal stepped down as 
Chair of the Executive Committee on 
31 August 2013, and was replaced by 
Mr Albanese on 1 September 2013. 
On 31 March 2014, Mr MS Mehta 
stepped down from the Executive 
Committee which comprises the 
following members:

Rajagopal Kishore Kumar
Chief Executive Officer (Africa, 
Base Metals) 
Mr Kumar joined the Group in April 2003, 
and served as Chief Executive Officer of Sesa 
Sterlite and Konkola Copper Mines in Zambia 
from June 2004 to December 2006, before 
being appointed as Chief Executive Officer, 
Africa (Base Metals). Mr Kumar has 28 years 
of experience and expertise in accountancy, 
commerce, marketing, supply chain 
management, mergers and acquisitions 
and human capital development. Prior to 
joining the Group, Mr Kumar was employed 
by Hindustan Lever Limited for 12 years. 

P Elango
Interim Chief Executive Officer and 
whole-time Director, Cairn India Limited
Mr Elango served as Interim Chief Executive 
Officer from August 2012 to May 2014, and 
whole-time Director from January 2013 to 
May 2014, of Cairn India. Mr Elango joined 
Cairn India in January 1996 and served as 
director of strategy and business services. 
He was involved in both commercial and 
asset management functions of Cairn India. 
Mr Elango has over 20 years’ experience in 
the Indian oil and gas sector, 10 years of 
which were with the state-owned Oil and 
Natural Gas Corporation. He holds a master’s 
degree in management studies from the 
Annamalai University of Tamil Nadu.

Mr Elango stepped down from his 
position on 2 May 2014, and Mr Sudhir 
Mathur, Chief Finance Officer, has 
taken over the additional responsibility 
as interim Chief Executive Officer.

Tarun Jain
Whole-time Director, Sesa Sterlite 
Limited (‘Sesa Sterlite’)
Mr Jain joined Sesa Sterlite in 1984 and has 
nearly 30 years of experience in finance, 
accounts, audit, taxation and company 
secretarial. He is responsible for corporate 
finance, corporate strategy, business 
development and mergers and acquisitions 
at Sesa Sterlite. Mr Jain is a graduate of the 
Institute of Cost and Works Accountants 
of India and a fellow of the Institute of 
Chartered Accountants of India and the 
Institute of Company Secretaries of India.

DD Jalan
Chief Financial Officer and whole-time 
Director, Sesa Sterlite Limited
Mr Jalan is the Chief Financial Officer of 
Vedanta Resources plc and whole-time 
Director of Sesa Sterlite. He is a fellow 
member of the Institute of Chartered 
Accountants of India. Mr Jalan has over 
35 years of experience in finance, accounts, 
audit, taxation, secretarial and legal 
matters. Prior to joining Sesa Sterlite in 
2001 he worked with Aditya Birla Group as 
the Executive President of Birla Copper.

Akhilesh Joshi
Chief Executive Officer and whole-time 
Director, Hindustan Zinc Limited (‘HZL’)
Mr Joshi joined the Group in 1976 and was 
appointed as Chief Executive Officer in 
February 2012. In October 2008, he became 
Chief Operating Officer and whole-time 
Director of HZL. Prior to this, he was the 
Senior Vice President of Mines responsible 
for the overall operations at all mining 
units. He is also a Director of Madanpur 
South Coal Company Limited. Mr Joshi has 
a mining engineering degree and a post 
graduate diploma in economic evaluation 
of mining projects from the School of 
Mines, Paris. He also has a first class Mine 
Manager’s Certificate of Competency. 

78

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014PK Mukherjee
Whole-time Director, Sesa Sterlite 
Limited
Mr Mukherjee joined Sesa Goa Limited in 
April 1987. In April 2006, he was appointed 
as Executive Director of Sesa Goa and the 
Group’s iron ore division. Mr Mukherjee 
has 34 years of experience in finance, 
accounts, costing, taxation and general 
management. He has a bachelor’s degree 
in Commerce from Calcutta University.

Mr Mukherjee stepped down from his 
position on 31 March 2014. The iron ore 
division is currently being managed by an 
interim management committee comprising 
Mr Pramod Unde and Mr Akhilesh Joshi.

Dilip Golani
Director, Management Assurance and 
Information Technology
Mr Golani currently heads the Group’s 
Management Assurance function, a position 
he also previously held from April 2000 
to July 2004. Mr Golani headed the Sales 
and Marketing function at HZL and the 
Group Performance Management function 
from August 2004 to November 2005. 
Prior to joining the Group in April 2000, Mr 
Golani was responsible for managing the 
Operations and Marketing functions for 
one of the export businesses of Unilever 
India. He has over 25 years of experience. 
Mr Golani has a degree in Mechanical 
Engineering and a post graduate degree in 
Industrial Engineering and Management.

A Thirunavukkarasu
President, Group Human Resources
Mr Thirunavukkarasu joined the Group 
in April 2004 and became Senior Vice 
President, copper division, heading the 
human resources, total quality management, 
corporate social responsibility and public 
relation functions, prior to becoming the 
head of Group human resources in July 2007. 
He previously held senior management 
positions in English Electric, Hindustan Lever 
and TVS Electronics. He holds a bachelor’s 
degree in Literature and a master’s degree in 
Social Work from Loyola College, Chennai.

M Siddiqi
Group Director, Projects
Mr Siddiqi joined the Group in 1991 and 
rising through several operational roles, 
he led the set up 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 
Copper smelter at Tuticorin. Prior to his 
appointment as Group Director of Projects 
he was Chief Executive Officer of the Group’s 
Aluminium division. Prior to joining the 
Group, Mr Siddiqi held senior positions in 
Hindustan Copper Limited. He has over 35 
years of industry experience. Mr Siddiqi has 
a Mechanical Engineering degree from the 
Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi.

Jeyakumar Janakaraj
Chief Executive Officer and whole-time 
Director, Konkola Copper Mines (‘KCM’)
Mr Janakaraj joined Sterlite Copper in 
September 1995. In July 2002, he moved to 
HZL to head the Group’s expansion projects. 
From 1992 to 1995, Mr Janakaraj worked at 
Essar Steel. Mr Janakaraj has a bachelor’s 
degree in Mechanical Engineering from 
PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore. 
In 2006 and 2008, he was recognised 
by the Indian Institute of Metals for his 
contribution to the Indian non-ferrous sector.

Mr Janakaraj stepped down from his position 
on 15 August 2013. On 12 May 2014, Steven 
Din was appointed Chief Executive Officer 
of KCM reporting to Mr Kishore Kumar, Chief 
Executive Officer of Base Metals, Africa. 
Mr Din has over 20 years of experience 
in the resources industry. Mr Din’s most 
recent role was Chief Executive Officer 
of minerals for Essar in Zimbabwe. Prior 
to this Mr Din was Managing Director of 
Strategic Projects for Rio Tinto in Senegal.

Sushil Kumar Roongta
Managing Director of Aluminium & 
Power and Vice Chairman, Bharat 
Aluminium Company Limited (‘BALCO’)
Mr Roongta is responsible for Vedanta’s 
Aluminium and Power business. Prior to 
joining the Group, Mr Roongta worked 
with the Steel Authority of India for almost 
four decades, before being appointed as 
Commercial Director in 2004 and later as 
Chairman of the Board in August 2006. 
Mr Roongta has a bachelor’s degree in 
engineering and a post graduate diploma 
in Business Management in International 
Trade. He serves as an independent 
director on the Boards of Neyveli 
Lignite Corporation Limited, Shipping 
Corporation of India Limited, Jubilant 
Industries Limited, Hindustan Petroleum 
Corporation Limited and ACC Limited.

79

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Corporate Governance report

Dear Shareholder,

As Chairman, I am responsible for ensuring that the Board operates 
effectively. Throughout the year we have continued to develop our 
practices to reflect the evolution of the Group’s business 
transformation and Board composition. 

In my statement last year, I outlined that we had undertaken a review 
of the composition needs of the Board in the light of the Group’s 
changing strategy and the length of tenure of our Directors.

The Board
In March 2014, Mr MS Mehta stepped down as Chief Executive 
Officer after serving on the Board since October 2008. The Board 
thanks Mr Mehta for his vision and leadership in that role over the 
past six years and for his outstanding contribution to the success and 
development of the Group since 2000, and I wish him well in the 
future. Replacing Mr Mehta, I am delighted to announce the 
appointment of Mr Tom Albanese as Chief Executive Officer with 
effect from 1 April 2014. As the former chief executive officer of Rio 
Tinto, Mr Albanese brings the vital experience necessary to drive 
growth and innovation throughout the Group. 

In August 2013, following the conclusion of the Company’s Annual 
General Meeting, Mr Naresh Chandra also stepped down from the 
Board having served nearly nine years with the Group. On behalf of 
the Board, I would like to thank Mr Chandra for his significant 
commitment, financial expertise and enthusiasm which he brought to 
the Group during his tenure. 

Following a review by the Board and Nominations Committee the 
search for two new Non-Executive Directors culminated with the 
appointment of Mr Geoffrey Green in 2012 and Mr Deepak Parekh in 
2013. In the light of these new appointments, I am very pleased that 
we have been able to attract strong and diverse talent to the Board 
over the past 18 months.

The new appointments to the Board ensure a new perspective and 
fresh outlook while the longer serving members of the Board provide 
stability, and the knowledge and experience of the Group. I believe 
that taking time to ensure that a new Non-Executive understands his 
duties and responsibilities as a Director is a prudent step. Together 
with the Board and the Nominations Committee, I continue to review 
the composition of the Board to ensure that there is an appropriate 
balance of skills, experience, independence and diversity represented 
on the Board, together with the length of tenure of Mr Aman Mehta 
and Mr Euan Macdonald, as Non-Executive Directors.

Anil Agarwal Chairman

80

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Diversity and inclusion
Following the publication of Lord Davies’ Report on diversity, we set 
ourselves an aspirational target to achieve a minimum of 25% female 
representation on the Board by 2015. As we do not have any women 
on the Board at present, this remains a key priority of the Board. 
Historically, the gender balance in leadership roles has been a 
challenge for the natural resources sector and Vedanta is no different. 
However, we are determined to make serious efforts to move in a 
positive direction and the Group has recently appointed a female 
independent Non-Executive Director to the Board of Sesa Sterlite. 
Further information on our progress is given in the Nominations 
Committee report on pages 98 and 99.

Board effectiveness and evaluation
Having undertaken an internally-facilitated review of Board 
effectiveness in 2013, I led the review process again this year with the 
engagement of an external facilitator. Further information on the 
process and outcome of the evaluation exercise is provided within this 
report on pages 88 to 89. The priorities identified provide very useful 
feedback to strengthen our Board processes.

The governance year ahead
During the year it is the intention to carry out a detailed review of 
our policies and procedures to ensure they are relevant, align with 
recent changes and reflect best practice.

Annual General Meeting
This year our Annual General Meeting will be held at 3.00pm on 
1 August 2014 at The Lincoln Centre and I would encourage you 
to attend and participate in the meeting.

Yours sincerely,

Anil Agarwal
Chairman
14 May 2014

81

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Corporate Governance report continued

Applying the UK Corporate Governance Code

The UK Corporate Governance Code (the ‘Code’)
As a company with a premium listing on the London Stock Exchange, 
Vedanta is subject to and seeks to comply with the Code which is 
available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at www.frc.org.uk. 
The Company is required to report on how it has applied the main 
principles of good governance in relation to leadership and 
effectiveness of the Board, remuneration, accountability and relations 
with shareholders as set out in the Code. This Corporate Governance 
Report provides details of our approach to governance, our policies, 
processes and structures and explains how we have complied with the 
main principles of the Code. Further details of how the Company has 
applied the provisions of the Code are also contained in the reports of 
each Board Committee and the Directors’ Remuneration Report.

Disclosures on share capital and related matters as required by the 
Disclosure and Transparency Rules (DTR 7.2.6) may be found in the 
Directors’ Report. 

Statement of compliance with the Code
It is the Board’s view that the Company has, throughout the year 
ended 31 March 2014, fully complied with all the provisions of the 
Code, with the exception of the following: 

Code Provision A.3.1
Mr Anil Agarwal was appointed as Executive Chairman in 2005. Mr 
Agarwal was the founder of the businesses of Vedanta Resources and 
steered the growth of the Group since its inception in 1976 including 
the flotation of Vedanta Resources Plc on the London Stock Exchange. 
This meant that Mr Agarwal did not meet the independence criteria 
as defined in the Code on his appointment in 2005 because he was 
previously the Chief Executive and, through Volcan Investments 
Limited (‘Volcan’), members of his family have a controlling interest in 
the Company. Mr Agarwal is pivotal in helping to achieve the strategic 
objectives of Vedanta through his skills in seeking out value creating 
acquisitions and projects. In addition, the fact that he dedicates 
himself full time to his role of Executive Chairman enables him to 
balance his executive duties with providing leadership to the Board. As 
Chairman Mr Agarwal encourages debate and challenge and sets 
high ethical standards. For these reasons the Board is unanimously of 
the opinion that his continued involvement in an executive capacity is 
important to the success of the Group.

Code Provision B.2.1
Under the Relationship Agreement put in place at the time of Listing 
Volcan, having a controlling interest in the Company, will be consulted 
on all appointments to the Board. The Nominations Committee 
therefore works collaboratively with Volcan when making 
appointments to the Board and, to this extent, differs from the 
process set out in Code Provision B.2.1 which stipulates that the 
Nominations Committee should lead the process for Board 
appointments.

The role of the Board
The Board of Directors is ultimately accountable to shareholders for 
promoting the long-term success of the Group through the creation 
and delivery of sustainable shareholder value. As part of their decision 
making processes the Directors have a responsibility to consider the 
long-term consequences of their decisions, the interests of the 
Company’s employees, the need to foster relationships with other 
stakeholders, the impact of the Company’s operations on the 
environment and the need to maintain high standards of business. 
This is achieved by ensuring its governance processes, as described 
below, are comprehensive and robust. 

The duties of the Board are set out in its terms of reference 
including those matters specifically reserved for decision by the 
Board:
•  Setting the strategic objectives of the Group;
•  Ensuring that adequate resources are provided to enable the 

Group to meet the objectives; 

•  Monitoring the progress made by management against the 

Group’s objectives; 

•  Setting the Group’s risk appetite and ensuring risk is effectively 
managed and robust internal controls and risk management 
systems are in place;

•  Approval of the Group’s annual and half year reports and 

financial statements;

•  Declaration of the interim dividend and the recommendation 

of the final dividend;

•  Approval of the business plan and capital expenditure budget 

of the Group;

•  Approval of major capital projects in excess of defined 

thresholds; and

•  Approval of major acquisitions and disposals of assets in 

excess of defined thresholds.

The Board’s terms of reference also set out those matters which 
must be reported to the Board such as details of fatalities and 
the adoption or material amendment to the Group policies 
relating to business conduct, environment and health and safety.

How the Board operates
The Board meets on a regular basis and met formally on seven 
occasions during the year. As well as formal meetings, written 
resolutions are passed with the approval of the whole Board on 
routine matters as required in order to facilitate efficient decision 
making. In addition ad hoc discussions take place between the 
Directors on a variety of topics throughout the year. During the year, 
the Chairman and the Non-Executive Directors met without the 
Executive Directors present.

82

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Corporate governance framework
The relationship between the shareholders, the Board, Board Committees and management committees and the reporting structure as shown 
below forms the backbone of the Group’s Corporate Governance framework.

Board of Directors

Nominations
Committee
See page 98

Audit Committee
See page 93

Chief Executive Officer
See page 76

Remuneration
Committee
See page 102

Sustainability
Committee
See page 100

Executive Committee
See page 78

Leadership
The Company is headed by an effective Board which is collectively responsible for the long-term success of the Company.

Vedanta Board culture

Debate
•  Open discussions 
•  Consultative processes 
•  Encouragement to question

Professional approach
•  Different skill sets of Board members 
•  Excellent relationships between Board 

members 

High ethical standards
Supported by sound governance policies 
such as Code of Business Conduct and 
Ethics

Entrepreneurial spirit
•  Seeking out new business 

opportunities and acquisitions 
•  Underpinned by strong internal 
auditing and control systems 

The role of our Board
At the highest level the Board operates by setting strategy and objectives, reviewing progress against these objectives and incorporating 
feedback into its decision making processes.

The Board sets
•  Vision
•  Values
•  Strategy
•  Business model

The Board

•  Oversees
•  Challenges
•  Reviews risk

The Board receives feedback from
•  Board members
•  Committees (including Advisory 

Forums and Chairman Workshops)

•  Management
•  Stakeholders

83

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Corporate Governance report continued

The Executive Chairman, assisted by the Company Secretary, is 
responsible for ensuring that the Board receives accurate, timely and 
clear information on all relevant matters in order to make informed 
decisions and discharge its duties. Directors are provided with regular 
detailed briefings on the Group’s businesses, the markets within which 
it operates and the overall economic environment and updates on 

fiscal policy changes. Prior to a Board meeting the Board also 
routinely receives detailed information on business and financial 
performance, ongoing projects, fund raising initiatives, activities of 
the Board Committees and investor relations, with presentations and 
verbal updates given by the Executive Directors and senior 
management as appropriate. 

Board activities during the year
In fulfilling their remit under the key Board responsibilities of strategy, performance, risk and internal controls and governance the Directors 
considered the following main items of business during the year:

Area of responsibility

Items considered

Strategy 

Production growth across portfolio with a focus on returns:
•  Disciplined capital allocation; 
•  Low risk and phased development;
•  Sustained operational excellence and cost efficiencies; and
•  Active engagements with Governments.

Reduce gearing from increasing fee cash flow:
•  Production ramp-up from well-invested assets;
•  Generate positive free cash flow from well-invested assets from all businesses; and
•  Utilise cash flows to deleverage balance sheet.

Add R&R on our existing portfolio of assets to drive long-term value:
•  Continued focus to more than replace production.

Sustainability
•  Preserve and enhance our licence to operate.

Consolidation and simplification of Group structure.

Performance

•  Reviewing the progress of the Group’s restructuring plans;
•  Monitoring the operational performance of the Group against the business plan through production updates from 

the heads of the operating subsidiaries;

•  Monitoring the financial performance of the Group and the financing of debt, currency hedging and covenant 

compliance;

•  Reviewing and approving the Company’s preliminary announcement of its financial results, the annual report and 

accounts and half year report;

•  Approving the Group business plan for the year ahead;
•  Declaring the interim dividend and recommending the final dividend; and
•  Monitoring the Group’s health and safety record and initiatives.

Risk and internal 
controls

Reviewing the Group risk matrix and policy and receiving a report from the Audit Committee on the effectiveness of 
internal controls and risk management systems.

Governance

•  Reviewing the composition of the Board and approving the appointment of new Non-Executive Directors and Chief 

Executive Officer;

•  Consideration and approval of Non-Executive Directors’ fees;
•  Reviewing project proposals and approving Group capital expenditure in excess of applicable thresholds;
•  Receiving reports from each of the Board Committees;
•  Reviewing the results of annual performance evaluation of the Board and its Committees;
•  Receiving regular updates on corporate governance and other regulatory developments; and
•  Receiving updates from investor relations in respect of investor sentiment, share price performance and investor 

feedback.

84

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Division of responsibilities
There is a clear division of responsibilities at the head of the 
Company between the functioning of the Board and the 
executive responsibility for the operation of the Company’s 
business.

The Board has an established policy which sets out the key 
responsibilities of the Executive Chairman, Deputy Executive 
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Senior Independent Director. 
The Board maintains an ongoing monitoring procedure for timely 
review and update of all policies and procedures and, in recognition of 
the increased role and expanding responsibilities of the newly 
appointed Chief Executive Officer, the division of responsibilities policy 
will be reviewed in 2014.

The role of the Executive Chairman
The Executive Chairman is responsible for:
•  Leading the Board, ensuring its effective functioning and setting its 

agenda; 

•  Upholding the highest standards of integrity and governance 

practices throughout the Group;

•  Facilitating constructive relationships between Directors;
•  Reviewing the induction and training needs of the Directors;
•  Development of strategy and objectives for approval by the Board;
•  Seeking new business opportunities; and
•  Ensuring communication and dialogue with shareholders and 

effective use of the AGM.

The role of the Deputy Executive Chairman
The Deputy Executive Chairman supports the Chairman in his 
leadership of the Board and is responsible for:
•  Chairing the Executive Committee;
•  Delivery of Group’s strategy in conjunction with the Chief Executive 

Officer; 

•  Development of fund raising initiatives; 
•  Global investor relations;
•  Oversight of the execution of Greenfield projects; and
•  Oversight of the development of top talent throughout the Group.

The role of the Senior Independent Director
The Senior Independent Director plays a key role in achieving a 
balance between the Company’s Executive and Non-Executive 
Directors. He is responsible for:
•  Providing a channel of communication between the Executive 

Chairman and the Non-Executive Directors;

•  Ensuring that the views of Non-Executive Directors are given due 

consideration; 

•  Acting as a contact for shareholders who wish to raise concerns 
which the normal channels of communication through the 
Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer have failed to 
resolve; 

•  Acting as a sounding board for the Chairman; and
•  Meeting with the Non-Executive Directors at least once a year to 

appraise the Executive Chairman’s performance and on such other 
occasions as are deemed appropriate.

Non-Executive Directors
The Non-Executive Directors constructively challenge and help 
develop proposals on strategy.

The role of the Non-Executive Directors
The responsibilities of the Non-Executive Directors are set out in their 
letters of appointment. The key elements of the Non-Executive 
Directors role are to:
•  Constructively challenge and help develop proposals on strategy;
•  Scrutinise performance of management in meeting objectives and 

monitor performance;

•  Satisfy themselves on the integrity of financial information and 

ensure risk and control systems are robust; and

•  Determine appropriate levels of remuneration and take a prime role 

in appointing Executive Directors and succession planning.

The role of the Board Committees
The Board delegates certain responsibilities to Board Committees 
which operate within their defined terms of reference. The main Board 
Committees are the Audit, Nominations, Remuneration and 
Sustainability Committees. 

The role of the Chief Executive Officer
The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for:
•  Recommending to the Board annual budgets and delivery of the 

same;

•  Optimising the Group’s assets and management and allocation of 

resources;

•  Creating and maintaining a sound control environment; 
•  Implementing strategy and Group policies and procedures; 
•  Supporting the Executive Chairman in effective communication 

with various stakeholders;

•  Providing leadership to the senior management team and 

nurturing the talent pool; and

•  Managing environmental, social and governance issues in 

conjunction with the Sustainability Committee.

All of the Committees are authorised to obtain legal or other 
professional advice as necessary, to secure the attendance of external 
advisers at their meetings and to seek information from any 
employee of the Company in order to perform their duties. Under the 
terms of reference of each of the Committees only the members of 
each Committee have the right to attend Committee meetings. 
However, other Directors, management and advisers may attend 
meetings at the invitation of the Committee Chair. The Group 
Company Secretary acts as the secretary to the Board, Audit, 
Nomination and Remuneration Committees while the Chief 
Sustainability Officer acts as the secretary to the Sustainability 
Committee. The full terms of reference of the Committees are 
available on the Company’s website www.vedantaresources.com or 
by request to the Company Secretary.

85

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Corporate Governance report continued

The Executive Committee
The Executive Committee acts as a conduit between management 
and the Board and during the year ended 31 March 2014 comprised 
of the Executive Directors and members of senior management 
whose biographies are given on pages 76 to 79. The Executive 
Committee meets monthly and is responsible for implementing 
strategic plans formulated by the Board, allocating resources in line 
with delegated authorities and monitoring the operational and 
financial performance of the Group. The Executive Committee 
therefore has a key role in putting the Board’s plans and policies into 
action. The Chief Executive Officer, Mr Albanese, keeps the Board 
informed of the Executive Committee’s activities through his standing 
reports to the Board.

The Finance Standing Committee
The Finance Standing Committee is an ad-hoc sub-Committee to 
which authority is delegated by the Board for approval of certain 
matters such as routine bank and financing issues. It comprises five 
members; Executive Chairman, Deputy Executive Chairman, Chief 
Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Director of Finance. The 
Company Secretary provides an update on the Finance Standing 
Committee meetings to the Board at the subsequent Board meeting 
and the minutes of all Finance Standing Committee meetings are 
reviewed by the Board.

Details of the membership, terms of reference and attendance at 
meetings of the Audit, Nominations, Remuneration, and 
Sustainability Committees are given in their respective reports on 
pages 93 to 102.

Effectiveness
The Board and its Committees have the appropriate balance of 
skills, experience and knowledge of the Company to enable them 
to discharge their respective duties and responsibilities 
effectively.

The Board of Directors
As at the date of this report, the Board, chaired by Mr Anil Agarwal, 
comprises the Executive Chairman, two Executive Directors and four 
independent Non-Executive Directors. The composition of the Board 
is reviewed regularly by the Nominations Committee. There is a 
variety of experience and skills represented on the Board including 
operational, mining, financial and governance as can be seen from 
the Directors’ biographies on pages 76 and 77.

Board skill set

3

2

1  Mining and Resources
2  Finance and Banking
3  Legal and Governance

1

Board independence
In accordance with the Code, the Board is committed to ensuring that 
at least half the Board, excluding the Chairman comprise of 
independent Non-Executive Directors. It undertakes an evaluation of 
each Director’s independence both on appointment, annually prior to 
recommending their re-election by shareholders and when any 
Director’s circumstances change and warrant a re-evaluation.

Prior to his appointment in June 2013 the independence of Deepak 
Parekh was considered by the Board. As Mr Parekh has had no prior 
connections with the Group the Board concluded that he is an 
independent Non-Executive Director.

Board membership and attendance
The table below is a record of Director’s attendance at Board meetings held during the year: 

Name

Executive Directors
Anil Agarwal 
Navin Agarwal 
MS Mehta (stepped down from the Board on 31 March 2014)

Non-Executive Directors
Naresh Chandra (stepped down from the Board on 1 August 2013)
Aman Mehta 
Euan Macdonald
Geoffrey Green 
Deepak Parekh 

Tom Albanese was appointed to the Board on 1 April 2014.

86

Date of appointment

Attendance at 
Board meetings

Percentage attendance

16 May 2003
24 November 2004
1 October 2008

18 May 2004
24 November 2004
23 March 2005
1 August 2012
1 June 2013

5/7
7/7
7/7

3/3
6/7
7/7
7/7
3/3

72%
100%
100%

100%
86%
100%
100%
100%

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014The Board has considered the independence of Mr Geoffrey Green 
who was appointed to the Board in August 2012. Mr Green was a 
partner at Ashurst LLP, a leading international law firm that is 
engaged by the Group to provide legal advice on various matters, 
until his retirement from the firm in 2013. Mr Green was Senior Partner 
of Ashurst and then head of the firm’s practice in Asia, based in Hong 
Kong. As such he had no involvement in advising the Group over the 
last five years. Other than occasional consultancy work Mr Green has 
no further business relationship with Ashurst LLP. The Board has 
concluded that he was independent of character and judgement on 
appointment and remains so. Furthermore, he brings to the Board a 
vital perspective of the UK legal and regulatory environment and 
corporate governance that serve to strengthen the Board.

Two of the Company’s Non-Executive Directors, Messrs Aman Mehta 
and Euan Macdonald will have served on the Board for nine years at 
the date of the 2014 Annual General Meeting and they were 
therefore subject to a particularly rigorous review of their 
independence. Mr Aman Mehta also serves as Non-Executive Director 
on the Board of Cairn India Limited. The Board considered the 
potential conflicts and that each of the Non-Executive Directors in 
question actively contributed to Board deliberations and provided 
robust challenge to management during the year. Furthermore, Mr 
Aman Mehta absents himself in the event of any conflict arising from 
their directorships at Cairn India Limited. In the opinion of the Board, 
Mr Macdonald does not have any business relationship and he is not 
involved in any transaction or circumstance that would interfere with 
the exercise of independent judgement in carrying out the 
responsibilities of a director. Accordingly, the Board concluded that 
the tenure of Mr Mehta and Mr Macdonald does not materially affect 
their ability to exercise independent judgement or act in the best 
interests of the Group. Furthermore, the renewal of Non-Executive 
Director service agreements is subject to rigorous review and based 
on annual reappointment. For these reasons, and following a 
consideration of any other factors that may impair independent 
judgement, the Board is unanimously of the opinion that Messrs 
Mehta and Macdonald are considered to be independent and 
impartial. While their total length of appointment would not normally 
exceed nine-years, in the light of the continuing search for additional 
non-executive directors and to ensure the smooth transition of any 
new and incoming Non-Executive Director, the Board has invited 
Messrs Mehta and Macdonald to serve on the Board for a further year 
following the nine-year anniversary of their appointment, subject to 
the proposed resolution to reappoint them at the 2014 Annual 
General Meeting.

Finally, the Board once again reviewed whether any conflicts of 
interest arose from Messrs Mehta and Macdonald having previously 
held senior management positions within subsidiary companies of 
HSBC Holdings Plc which acted as the joint global bookrunner and 
co-ordinator for the Company’s listing in 2003. As they retired from 
their respective roles over a decade ago and had no involvement with 
the Company prior to their appointment, the Board remains of the 
view that they are independent and have no conflicts of interest.

Following careful consideration, the Board has determined that all of 
the current Non-Executive Directors are independent and free from 
any relationship or circumstance that could affect or appear to affect 
their independent judgement.

Directors’ conflicts of interest
The Board has an established procedure for the disclosure of interests 
and other related matters in line with published guidance and the 
Companies Act 2006. Each Director must promptly disclose actual or 
potential conflicts and any changes to the Board which are noted at 
each Board meeting. The Board considers and authorises potential or 
actual conflicts as appropriate. Directors with a conflict do not 
participate in the discussion or vote on the matter in question. These 
procedures have proved to be effective during the year under review. 
Related party transactions, which include those in respect of any 
Director, are disclosed in Note 38 on pages 182 to 184.

The Board reviewed any potential conflict of interest for Mr Geoffrey 
Green from his previous role at Ashurst LLP. The fees paid to Ashurst 
LLP during the year amounted to US$195,037 (2013: US$0.7 million) 
and, as the value of the expenditure incurred was determined to be 
immaterial and Mr Green was not directly involved in advising the 
Group, the Board authorised the potential conflict of interest in 
accordance with the Company’s Articles of Association.

Relationship agreement
At the time of the Company’s Listing in 2003, it entered into a 
relationship agreement with Volcan (the ‘Relationship Agreement’), 
its majority shareholder, to regulate the ongoing relationship between 
them. A new Relationship Agreement was entered into in December 
2011 the terms of which are the same as that entered into on Listing 
but updated for legal and regulatory requirements where appropriate. 
The principal purpose of the Relationship Agreement is to ensure that 
the Group is able to carry on business independently of Volcan, the 
Agarwal family and their associates. Under the terms of the 
Relationship Agreement, the Board, and Nominations Committee will 
at all times consist of a majority of Directors who are independent of 
Volcan and the Agarwal family. Whilst the Remuneration and Audit 
Committees shall at all times comprise solely of Non-Executive 
Directors, Volcan is entitled to nominate for appointment as Director 
such number of persons as is one less than the number of Directors 
who are independent of Volcan, the Agarwal family and their 
associates. The Board considers these to be adequate safeguards in 
that Directors who are independent of Volcan make up at least half of 
the Board in accordance with Provision B.1.2 of the Code and 
Vedanta’s ability to operate independently of Volcan is protected by 
the Relationship Agreement. 

The Financial Conduct Authority has recently introduced a number of 
measures in the Listing Rules to enhance the protection for minority 
shareholders. One of the most important changes will be the 
requirement for listed companies with a controlling shareholder to 
have in place a Relationship Agreement. The existing Relationship 
Agreement will be reviewed during the year ahead to ensure 
compliance with the new requirements. 

The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing matters arising in 
relation to the Relationship Agreement and related party transactions 
on behalf of the Board. There were no such matters considered during 
the year.

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Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Corporate Governance report continued

Commitment
All Directors allocate sufficient time to the Company to discharge 
their responsibilities effectively.

All Directors are required to disclose their other time commitments 
and seek the agreement of the Executive Chairman prior to accepting 
any additional appointments in order to ensure that they have 
sufficient time to fulfil their role as a Director. The expected time 
commitment of the Company’s Non-Executive Directors is set out in 
their letters of appointment. Non-Executive Directors are expected to 
spend at least 20 days per year on the Company’s business with 
greater time commitment during periods of heightened strategic and 
commercial activity. The Non-Executive Directors letters of 
appointment are available on request to the Company Secretary.

Development, information and support
All Directors receive an induction on joining the Board and 
regularly update and refresh their skills and knowledge. The 
Board receives in a timely manner information in a form and of a 
quality appropriate to enable it to discharge its duties.

The Board is committed to the ongoing professional development of 
all of the Directors. On appointment to the Board, each Director 
undergoes a comprehensive induction programme which is tailored to 
their individual needs but is intended to provide an introduction to the 
Group’s operations and the challenges and risks faced. During the 
year, Mr Parekh attended the induction and orientation programme 
consisting of meetings with and presentations from senior 
management, and meetings with the Non-Executive Directors. He 
also received induction materials including the Company’s Articles of 
Association, Board terms of reference, Share Dealing Code, Cairn 
India Prospectus, Code of Business Conduct, Vedanta Values and an 
update on the implementation of the Anti-Bribery policy across the 
Group. In addition, in 2013, Mr Green attended INSEAD’s 
International Directors Programme to further develop the essential 
skills required of a Director. 

The Directors have access to the advice and services of the Company 
Secretary, who is responsible to the Board for ensuring that Board 
procedures are followed. The Company Secretary is also responsible 
for advising the Board through the Chairman on governance matters. 
The Directors also have access to the Company’s professional advisers 
whom they can consult where necessary for the discharge of their 
duties. During the year, the Directors received legal and regulatory 
updates on corporate governance developments and presentations 
from the senior management of Konkola Copper Mines, Zambia, and 
Cairn India. 

In September 2013, Mr Albanese joined the Group as Chairman of 
Vedanta Resources Holdings Limited before being appointed Chief 
Executive Officer effective April 2014. This structured appointment 
process provided Mr Albanese with the opportunity to participate in a 
comprehensive and tailored orientation programme essentially to 
familiarise him with the Group’s operations, the business environment 
and the markets in which we operate, as well as to build a link with our 
employees and an understanding of the Group’s main relationships. 
The orientation includes meetings with other Board members, the 
executive team, senior management and visits to the operating sites 
of the Group:
•  Alumina refinery at Lanjigarh, India;
•  Aluminium smelters in India (operated by Bharat Aluminium 

Company and Vedanta Aluminium);

•  Rampura Agucha Zinc mine in Rajasthan, India (operated by 

Hindustan Zinc);

•  Black Mountain Zinc mine, South Africa;
•  Skorpion Zinc mine in Karas, Namibia;
•  Iron ore mine in Goa, India (operated by Sesa Sterlite);
•  Iron ore mine, Western Cluster, Liberia (operated by Sesa Sterlite);
•  Copper smelter in Tuticorin, India (operated by Sesa Sterlite);
•  Konkola Copper mine, Zambia;
•  Copper mines, Tasmania (in 2014), Australia;
•  Oil fields in Rajasthan (in 2013) and Andhra Pradesh (in 2014), India 

(operated by Cairn India); and

•  Coal based thermal power plant in Punjab, India (operated by a 

subsidiary of Sesa Sterlite).

The objectives of the programme are also to maximise Mr Albanese’s 
contributions to Board deliberations, to enable him to make informed 
decisions with regard to matters of the Group, and to give him a 
greater insight into the legal and ethical framework in which he must 
conduct himself. 

The orientation and training programme for Mr Albanese has 
continued following his appointment to the Board with a focus on 
internal management meeting attendance to provide him with 
opportunities to meet key talent within the Group, as well as 
additional operational site visits to deepen his understanding of key 
business risks and issues.

Evaluation
The Board undertakes a formal and rigorous annual evaluation 
of its own performance and that of its Committees and 
individual Directors.

The Board undertakes regular evaluations of its own performance as 
well as that of the various Board Committees. In previous years the 
performance evaluations were led by the Executive Chairman 
supported by the Company Secretary. The review consisted of a 
detailed questionnaire tailored to the Board and each Committee 
with a subsequent discussion of results and agreement of relevant 
actions. As required by the Code, an externally facilitated evaluation 
was conducted in 2014 and is reported on below.

88

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014A series of actions will be identified in response to the 
recommendations of the review, as follows:

Theme

Strategic discussion: Broader consideration of strategic issues 

outside India was encouraged, particularly 
within Asia and Africa. 

Further work on the strategic oversight of risk 
was encouraged.

The format, structure and process for Board 
papers and the timetable and locations 
of Board meetings should be reviewed. 
The induction and ongoing development 
programme should be restructured and 
developed for Directors. 

The Audit Committee should consider 
increasing the number of meetings to 
allocate more time to (a) the Committee 
obligations as set out in its terms of reference, 
and (b) the increasing accountability that it 
has to report on its own activities.

The Committee should continue to identify 
the optimum balance of skills, background 
and experience to develop and inform 
the Board recruitment process over the 
coming months. Board diversity should be 
strengthened. 

The Board as a whole should continue to 
monitor the effectiveness of communication 
with analysts and shareholders concerning 
the Board’s Remuneration Policy.

The governance of sustainability should 
be revisited. The membership of the 
Sustainability Committee should be reviewed 
to create greater accountability from 
management in this area.

Choice of evaluator
The choice of external evaluator was a key consideration for the 
Nominations Committee. The brief was to find a company used to 
dealing with Board members who would provide a bespoke service to 
address the specific requirements of the evaluation. Prism Cosec 
(‘Prism’) was chosen to conduct the process due to their ability to 
engage meaningfully with the Directors. Prism also provided 
occasional corporate governance advice to the Company on an ad 
hoc basis (the fees for such work have not been material). Prism’s 
knowledge of the background and development of Vedanta was also 
an important factor enabling them to carry out an effective and 
targeted process.

Evaluation process 
A series of discussion topics on which to base individual interviews 
with the Directors was agreed. These covered questions on: 
•  The external environment for resources companies;
•  The Board’s strategic response;
•  Strategy and risk;
•  Key priorities for the Board;
•  Committee structure and operation of the Committees;
•  Sustainability and CSR; and
•  Any other business.

The findings from the evaluation exercise were discussed with the 
Chairman and reviewed by the whole Board before a set of actions 
were agreed.

Risk:

Board process:

Audit Committee:

Nomination 
Committee:

Main recommendations
Summary 
The Board evaluation exercise was undertaken shortly after the 
appointment of Mr Albanese, the newly appointed Chief Executive 
Officer, and therefore a number of the recommendations were 
aligned to significant changes which were already in progress 
concerning the way in which the Company is managed.

Remuneration 
Committee:

Sustainability:

The underlying processes of the Board and its Committees were 
generally considered to be working well, although there were areas 
where further improvements could be made. 

The Board’s strengths
A number of strengths emerged from the evaluation exercise  
which were:
•  The current Board and Committee processes work effectively with 

agenda preparation and information flows operating well;
•  Dialogue within Board meetings is encouraged and debate is 

managed well;

•  Financial information is comprehensive and the Board has an 

effective grasp on financial matters;

•  The positive performance evaluation of the Chairman of the Board 

and the collaborative relationship with the Board; and 

•  Good progress has been made on certain key priorities over the 

past year e.g. Group structure.

Committee evaluation
The independently facilitated evaluation of the Board has embraced 
certain aspects of the role of the Board Committees and, as a result of 
this, a number of the recommendations from the Board evaluation 
process are being considered for each Committee. Consequently, the 
Committees will evaluate their own performance later in 2014, in 
order to consider how those recommendations from the main 
evaluation exercise have been implemented and identify further steps 
that they consider need to be taken to ensure their continued 
effectiveness as Committees.

Chairman’s performance
Every year the Chairman’s performance is evaluated by the Non-
Executive Directors. The process is led by the Senior Independent 
Director and the conclusions of the evaluation are fed back to  
the Chairman with a number of actions to be completed over the  
year ahead. 

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Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Corporate Governance report continued

Re-election
All Directors are submitted for re-election at regular intervals, 
subject to continued satisfactory performance.

The responsibilities, processes and information flows for ensuring that 
significant risks are recognised and reported up to the Board are 
shown below:

In accordance with the Code which requires that the Directors of FTSE 
350 companies should be subject to annual election by shareholders, 
all of the Company’s Directors will stand for re-election at the 
Company’s 2014 Annual General Meeting.

Accountability 

Financial and business reporting
The Directors present a fair, balanced and understandable 
assessment of the Company’s position and prospects.

The Group has a comprehensive financial reporting system, which is 
reviewed and modified in line with Accounting Standards to ensure 
that all published financial information is accurate. Vedanta’s financial 
reporting procedures are based on five main elements:
•  Financial information supplied by subsidiary companies and 

consolidated at central level:
 – Management accounts are prepared on a monthly basis and 

reviewed by the Executive Committee; 

 – Management accounts are reviewed by the Board at least 

quarterly; 

 – Performance is monitored against key performance indicators 
throughout the financial year and forecasts are updated as 
appropriate; and

 – Annual operational budgets are prepared by each operating 
subsidiary and consolidated into a Group Budget which is 
reviewed and approved by the Board. 

•  The Internal Audit function provides assurance in respect of 

processes, physical verification and management information 
system accuracy for each operating company. 

•  External auditor assurance: 

 – Full year audit and interim review are carried out on the 

published financial statements. 
•  Review by the Audit Committee of: 

 – Year-end reporting plans; 
 – Legal, tax and accounting issues;
 – Consideration of the financial statements and disclosures in 

accordance with financial reporting standards; and

 – Going concern statements with supporting cash flow, liquidity 

and funding forecasts. 

•  Review by the Audit Committee and the Board of the preliminary 
and half-year announcements, the Annual Report and Accounts 
and any other announcements including financial information. 

The Board
•  Sets ‘risk appetite’.
•  Reviews significant reported risks.

The Audit Committee
•  Reviews the effectiveness of internal control/risk systems and 

reports to the Board. 

•  Reviews risk matrix/significant risks/status of risks/mitigating 

factors. 

•  Considers/approves remedial actions where appropriate. 
•  Reviews action plans put in place to mitigate risks. 
•  Reviews significant findings reported by MAS. 
•  Reviews internal audit plans. 
•  Assesses the effectiveness of internal audit. 
•  Reviews whistleblower reports presented by MAS. 

Management Assurance Services (‘MAS’) – Internal Audit 
function
•  Plans and carries out internal audits through arrangements 

with leading international accounting and audit firms. 

•  Recommends improvements to the Group’s internal control 

system. 

•  Reviews compliance with Group policies and procedures. 
•  Facilitates the update of the risk matrix.
•  Reports to the Audit Committee. 
•  Reviews findings with Senior Management. 
•  Investigates whistleblower cases. 

The Head of MAS attends all the Vedanta Executive Committee and 
Audit Committee meetings and heads a strong team supported by 
Ernst & Young. During the year, the MAS team played a key role in the 
review of the compliance of Sesa Sterlite and its subsidiaries with the 
obligations imposed by the US Sarbanes-Oxley Act 2002, including 
documenting internal controls as required by section 404 of the Act. 
The effectiveness of internal controls is assessed by Vedanta’s own 
administration and certified by independent auditors, as set forth in 
the Act. 

90

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Risk management and internal control
The Board is responsible for determining the nature and extent 
of the significant risks it is willing to take in achieving its strategic 
objectives. The Board maintains a sound risk management and 
internal control system.

The Board is responsible for setting the Group’s risk appetite and 
determining the nature and extent of the risks it is willing to take to 
achieve its strategic objectives. The Directors also have ultimate 
responsibility for ensuring that the Group maintains a robust system 
of internal control to provide them with reasonable assurance that all 
information within the business and for external publication is 
adequate. Authority for detailed monitoring of the internal control 
and risk management framework is delegated to the Audit 
Committee which reports to the Board regularly within the remit of its 
role.

The Group’s risk management framework plays a key role in the 
identification, analysis, mitigation and continual monitoring of the 
various risks that could impact the delivery of the strategic objectives 
set by the Board. Full details of principal risks and uncertainties are 
contained in the Strategic report on pages 32 to 38.

The Risk Management Committee comprising of the Chief Executive 
Officer, the Chief Financial Officer and Director, Management 
Assurance and Information Technology periodically reviews the 
changes in the nature and extent of major risks. The Company’s Chief 
Risk Officer and the risk officers at operating subsidiaries are 
responsible for creating heightened awareness of the risk 
management framework both at Group level and at operating 
subsidiary level. They play an important role in ensuring that the 
organisation sustains its risk management initiatives and that the 
Group’s risk management framework matures and grows with the 
organisation.

A consistently applied methodology is used to identify risks to 
operations and projects at the operating subsidiary level. This includes 
financial, operational and compliance control and risk management, 
to ensure shareholders’ interests and the Company’s assets are 
safeguarded. The process also covers significant risks that may arise 
from environmental, social and governance matters. At the 
operational level specialists are brought in where appropriate to 
review working practices and recommendations are implemented 
with the purpose of creating safe working environments. MAS also 
review the quarterly accounts of the Group subsidiary boards. 

MAS have arrangements with leading international accounting and 
audit firms excluding the Group’s external auditor for carrying out 
internal audits within the Group.

This element has been an important component of the overall 
process by which the Board obtains the assurance it requires to ensure 
that risks are properly identified, evaluated and managed. The scope 
of work, authority and resources of MAS are regularly reviewed by the 
Audit Committee. The responsibilities of MAS include recommending 
improvements in the control environment and reviewing compliance 
with the Group’s philosophy, policies and procedures. The planning of 
internal audit is approached from a risk perspective. In preparing the 
internal audit plan, reference is made to the Group’s risk matrix, inputs 
are sought from senior management, project managers and Audit 
Committee members and reference is made to past audit experience, 
financial analysis and the current economic and business 
environment.

Each of the Group’s principal subsidiaries has in place procedures to 
ensure that sufficient internal controls are maintained. These 
procedures include a monthly meeting of the relevant management 
committee and quarterly meeting of the Audit Committee of that 
subsidiary. Any adverse findings are reported to the Audit Committee. 
The Audit Committee Chairman may request MAS and/ or the 
external auditor to focus their audit work and report to him on specific 
areas of risk identified by the risk management and internal control 
framework. At a Group level, the findings by MAS are presented 
monthly to the Executive Committee and to the Audit Committee on 
a half yearly basis.

The Executive Committee and Audit Committee regularly review 
reports related to the Group’s internal control framework in order to 
satisfy the internal control requirements of the Code (Internal Control: 
Revised Guidance for Directors) and section 404 of the Sarbanes-
Oxley Act 2002. Due to the limitations inherent in any system of 
internal control, this system is designed to meet the Group’s particular 
needs and the risks to which it is exposed rather than eliminate risk 
altogether. Consequently it can only provide reasonable and not 
absolute assurance against material misstatement or loss. 

In line with best practice, the Board has reviewed the internal control 
system in place during the year and up to the date of the approval of 
this report. The Board’s review includes the Audit Committee’s report 
on the risk matrix, significant risks and actions put in place to mitigate 
these risks. This review ensures that the internal control system 
remains effective. Where weaknesses are identified as a result of the 
review, new procedures are put in place to strengthen controls and 
these are in turn reviewed at regular intervals. Every risk has an owner 
who is responsible for ensuring that controls are put in place to 
mitigate the risk. During the course of its review of the system of 
internal control, the Board has not identified nor been advised of any 
weaknesses or control failure that is significant.

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Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Corporate Governance report continued

Routine communication activities include:
•  Press releases to the market and media on key developments 

throughout the year;

•  Meetings with institutional investors, analysts and brokers and site 

visits to the Group’s major operations;

•  Ongoing dialogue with shareholders and other interested parties by 

email, letters and meetings arranged through our Investor 
Relations team; and

•  A wide range of information on the Company and its operations is 
available on our website including the Annual Report and Accounts, 
half yearly results, sustainability report, market announcements, 
press releases, share price and links to subsidiary company websites.

Constructive use of the Annual General Meeting
The Board uses the Annual General Meeting to communicate 
with investors and encourages participation.

The Board welcomes the opportunity to communicate with the 
Company’s shareholders at the Annual General Meeting, leading to 
full and frank discussions on a variety of topics of interest to 
shareholders. All of the Directors, including the Chairmen of the Audit, 
Remuneration, Nominations and Sustainability Committees attend 
the AGM in order to answer questions from shareholders. The 2014 
AGM will be held at 3.00pm on 1 August 2014 at The Lincoln Centre, 
18 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3ED. Further details are given in 
the Notice of Meeting accompanying this Annual Report including 
the business to be considered at the meeting. The Notice is sent out 
at least 20 business days before the AGM. Voting at the AGM on all 
resolutions is by poll on a one share, one vote basis and the results of 
votes cast for, against and abstentions are available on the Group’s 
website following the meeting. The Board believes that voting by poll 
allows the views of all shareholders to be taken into account 
regardless of whether or not they can attend the meeting and 
shareholders are actively encouraged to register their votes 
electronically in advance of the meeting.

Dialogue with shareholders
There is a dialogue with shareholders based on the mutual 
understanding of objectives. The Board as a whole is responsible 
for ensuring that a satisfactory dialogue with shareholders takes 
place.

The Company values communication with its shareholders and 
actively engages with them to listen to their views. The Company 
undertakes an ongoing schedule of meetings with institutional 
investors, which is managed by the Investor Relations team. The main 
channels of communication with the investment community are 
through the Executive Chairman, Deputy Executive Chairman, Chief 
Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President, 
Investor Relations. Upon request the Senior Independent Director and 
other Non-Executive Directors are available to meet with major 
investors to discuss any specific issues. The Board is also kept abreast 
of shareholder sentiment through periodic detailed investor relations 
reports to the Board. 

Timeline of key investor relations activities 2014

Month

April 2013

May 2013

July 2013

Activity

Q4 2013 Production update

Full year 2013 results announcement
Roadshows in London
Bond Roadshows in London, Boston, New 
York, Los Angeles, Singapore and Hong Kong

Q1 2014 Production and EBITDA update
Annual Report and Accounts release

August 2013

Annual General Meeting

September 2013

Broker conference in London and US

October 2013

November 2013

Q2 2014 Production update
Extraordinary General Meeting

Half year 2014 results announcement
Roadshows in London

December 2013

Shareholder Circular

January 2014

Q3 2014 Production and EBITDA update
Shareholders Meeting
Extraordinary General Meeting

February 2014

Broker conference in US
Mining conference in Africa

92

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014The Audit Committee report

In order to carry out its duties effectively, the Committee receives high 
quality and detailed information from management and the internal 
and external auditor regularly which is reviewed, discussed and 
challenged by the Committee as required.

Responsibilities of the Audit Committee

The Board has established formal and transparent arrangements 
for considering how they should apply the corporate reporting 
and risk management and internal control principles and for 
maintaining an appropriate relationship with the Company’s 
auditors.

The Audit Committee’s remit falls into four main areas: financial 
reporting, risk and the internal control environment and oversight of 
the external and internal audit processes. The main responsibilities of 
the Audit Committee are to:
•  Monitor the integrity of the financial statements, including its 

annual and half-year results.

•  Where requested by the Board, review the content of the annual 
report and accounts and advise the Board on whether, taken as a 
whole, it is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the 
information necessary for shareholders to assess the Company’s 
performance, business model and strategy.

•  Review the Group’s internal controls and risk management systems 

and consider the effectiveness of these systems.

•  Make recommendations to the Board concerning the appointment 

of the external auditor. 

•  Review the independence of the external auditor.
•  Review the scope of internal audit work.
•  Develop policy in relation to the provision of non-audit services by 

the external auditor and monitoring thereof.

•  Discuss with the external auditor the nature and scope of the audit.
•  Approve the remuneration of the external auditor.
•  Consider any matters arising in respect of the Relationship 

Agreement and related party transactions.

•  Monitor the activities and effectiveness of the internal audit 

function and consider its reports.

•  Review the Group’s arrangements for its employees to raise 

concerns through its whistleblowing policy.
•  Monitor anti-bribery policies and procedures.
•  Review reports from the audit committees of the Group’s main 

subsidiary companies confirming that there are no material adverse 
issues that are likely to impact the Group.

The full terms of reference for the Committee can be found on the 
Company’s website at www.vedantaresources.com and are also 
available on request from the Company Secretary.

93

Aman Mehta, Chairman, Audit Committee

This Report provides details of the role and responsibilities of the Audit 
Committee and the work it has undertaken during the year.

Membership and attendance
The Audit Committee comprises the following independent Non-
Executive Directors and met on four occasions during the year. 

Number of 
meetings 
attended

Percentage 
attendance

Aman Mehta, Chair
Naresh Chandra (stepped down August 2013)
Euan Macdonald
Deepak Parekh (appointed June 2013)

4/4
2/2
4/4
2/2

100%
100%
100%
100%

As shown in Mr Mehta’s biography on page 77, he has had extensive 
executive and non-executive experience with a strong financial 
background in large listed companies. The Board therefore considers 
that Mr Mehta has recent and relevant financial experience. In 
addition Mr Parekh is a qualified Chartered Accountant. All members 
of the Committee have had extensive prior senior management 
experience in large international organisations and are financially 
literate.

The Audit Committee assists the Board in the discharge of its 
responsibility for maintaining and monitoring the integrity of the 
Group’s financial statements, assessing the effectiveness of the 
Group’s system of risk management and internal controls and the 
independence and objectivity of the external auditor. 

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014The Audit Committee report continued

Operation of the Audit Committee 
The Committee meets at least four times a year based on 
appropriate times in the financial reporting calendar. The Executive 
Directors, Chief Financial Officer, Director of MAS and Information 
Technology, other members of the senior management team and the 
external auditor regularly attend meetings at the invitation of the 
Committee to report on issues and facilitate discussions with the 
external auditor. The Committee meets with representatives from the 

external auditor without management being present bi-annually. The 
Chairman of the Audit Committee regularly reports to the Board on 
the Committee’s activities. The Committee’s agenda is based on its 
remit outlined on the previous page as appropriate to the stage in the 
reporting cycle. The external auditor attends meetings of the Audit 
Committee to ensure effective communication of matters relating to 
the audit.

Audit Committee activities during the year
The main areas covered by the Audit Committee during the year are summarised below:

Area of responsibility

Activities

Financial reporting
It is one of the Committee’s key duties to monitor the integrity of the 
financial statements. As part of this process it reviews in detail the 
preliminary results statements, the annual report and accounts and 
half-year report. The appropriateness of accounting polices used is 
considered, accounting judgements are reviewed and the external 
audit findings discussed. Details of financial reporting procedures in 
place are given on page 90 of the Corporate Governance report.

Internal controls, risk management and governance
Details of the Company’s internal control and risk management 
processes are discussed on pages 90 and 91. The Audit Committee 
reviews these processes and output from the regular review of risks 
carried out during the year by the internal audit function.

The Audit and external auditor

•  Review and approval of preliminary announcement, annual report 

and financial statements.

•  Review of key significant issues for year-end audit (further detail on 

page 96).

•  Six monthly reviews of significant accounting issues and receipt of 

reports on key accounting issues.

•  Review and approval of the half year report.
•  Discussions on impairment reviews.
•  Review of all pending tax issues.
•  Review of Audit Committee report for the annual report and 

accounts.

•  Review of legal cases to ensure appropriate provisions are made 

and disclosed.

•  Review of the going concern basis for the preparation of the 

financial statements including working capital forecasts, monthly 
projections and funding requirements.

•  Internal audit review including reviews of the internal control 

framework, changes to the control gradings within the Group and 
whistleblowing cases.

•  Review of the Group’s risk management infrastructure, risk profile, 

significant risks, risk matrix and resulting action plans.

•  Review of reports from subsidiary company audit committees.
•  Review of feedback from performance evaluation of the Audit 

Committee.

•  Briefing and consideration of new requirements in respect of audit 

tendering and UK Corporate Governance Code changes.

•  Briefing on cyber security and update and review of UK Bribery Act 

requirements.

•  Review of the significant audit risks with the external auditors 

during the interim review and final year audit.

•  Consideration of external audit findings and review of significant 

issues raised.

•  Review of key audit issues and management’s report.
•  Review of the materiality figure for the external audit. 
•  Review of the independence of the external auditor and the 

provision for non-audit services.

•  Performance evaluation of the external auditor and 

recommendation for reappointment of the external auditor.

•  Consideration of the external audit fee.
•  Review of the management representation letter.
•  Review of the audit plan, scope of the 2014 external audit of the 

financial statements and key risks areas for the 2014 audit.

94

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Area of responsibility

Internal audit

Annual Report review
At the request of the Board, the Audit Committee considered whether 
the 2014 Annual Report and Accounts was fair, balanced and 
understandable and whether it provided the necessary information 
for shareholders and stakeholders to assess the Company’s 
performance, business model and strategy. Such assessments are 
provided in the Chairman’s and Chief Executive Officer’s statement 
and the Strategic report of this Annual Report. The Audit Committee 
and the Board are satisfied that the Annual Report and Accounts 
meet this requirement as both positive and negative developments in 
the year were considered at length. In justifying this statement the 
Audit Committee has considered the robust process which operates in 
creating the Annual Report and Accounts, including:
•  Evaluation and verification of the inputs from the business 

functions, to include the well-established financial reporting system 
within Vedanta to ensure accuracy and consistency;

•  Progress through various levels of review, including review by the 
Executive Committee and senior management across the Group; 
•  Consideration is given to the completeness of the information and 

to ensuring that there are no significant omissions to enable 
shareholders to assess the Company’s performance; 

•  Management Assurance Services conduct internal audit reviews 
with conclusions and recommendations presented to the Audit 
Committee; 

•  Revisions to regulatory requirements are considered and 

incorporated to include the UK Corporate Governance Code;
•  Advice is also received by the Audit Committee from external 

advisers in order to make the recommendation to the Board that 
the Annual Report and Accounts as a whole is fair, balanced and 
understandable;

•  Members of the Audit Committee receive an advance draft of the 
Annual Report enabling them to assess and challenge whether the 
various reports within the Annual Report are consistent and in line 
with their understanding of the business;

•  A meeting of the Audit Committee is held to formally review and 

sign-off the draft Annual Report; and

•  A meeting of the Board is held to review and provide final sign-off.

Activities

•  Review of internal audit observations and monitoring of 
implementation of any corrective actions identified.

•  Review of the performance of the internal audit function.
•  Review of 2013–14 internal audit plan.
•  Review Anti-Bribery policy and its implementation.
•  Review of whistleblower cases.
•  Review of cyber security.

Whistleblowing procedure
The Group has in place a whistleblowing procedure that is regularly 
reviewed by the Audit Committee. This is a standalone policy which is 
summarised in the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and supports 
the Group’s aim of working to the highest ethical standards. The 
policy allows employees of the Company, its subsidiaries and all 
external stakeholders to raise any issues of concern in confidence and 
forms part of the Group’s internal control monitoring process. The 
Audit Committee reviews any reports made under the whistleblowing 
policy and ensures appropriate actions are taken if required. 
Whistleblowing procedures have proved to be robust in that reported 
cases are thoroughly investigated and appropriate actions taken.

Fraud and Bribery Act
The Company is committed to the elimination of fraud, with each 
suspected case thoroughly investigated and concluded. The Audit 
Committee reviews the actions taken by management in the elimination 
of fraudulent practices and to promote ethical working practices.

External auditor
The Audit Committee is pivotal in monitoring the performance of the 
external auditor and the Group’s relationship with the external 
auditor. Details of how this is achieved are set out below.

The audit process
A detailed Audit Plan is prepared by the external auditor, Deloitte LLP, 
(‘Deloitte’) which is reviewed by the Audit Committee. The Audit Plan 
sets out the audit scope, key audit risks identified, materiality issues, 
the client team working on the audit and the audit timetable. The 
audit scope covers the significant components of the audit and audit 
plans for each component and geographical location. Each of the key 
audit risks and the external auditor’s response on how it will 
investigate these risks is considered by the Committee. 

Significant issues 
The preparation of financial statements requires management to make 
judgements, estimates and assumptions, that affect the application of 
accounting policies and the reported amount of assets, liabilities, 
income, expenses and disclosures of contingent liabilities at the date of 
these financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and 
expenses for the years presented. The Committee reviews whether the 
Group’s accounting policies are appropriate, and management’s 
estimate and judgements applied in the financial statements are 
reasonable. The Committee also focused on the disclosures made in the 
financial statements. Views of statutory auditors on these significant 
issues were also considered by the Committee. 

95

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014The Audit Committee Report continued

The significant issues that were considered by the Audit Committee emerging from the audit process are outlined below:

Significant issues

How these issues were addressed

Impairment assessment of alumina refinery assets at Lanjigarh  
and iron ore business at Goa and Karnataka.

More information is provided in Note 2(b) to the financial statements.

Revenue recognition across the business:
–  provisional pricing sale of goods;
–  oil and gas revenue;  and
–  power tariff with GRIDCO.

Litigation, environmental and regulatory risks. Refer to Note 37 to the 
financial statements.

Taxation. Additional information on these matters are disclosed in 
Note 37 to the financial statements 

Impairment assessment of alumina refinery assets at Lanjigarh is 
considered as a significant issue due to the challenges in obtaining 
regulatory approvals for the refinery expansion and delays in 
obtaining bauxite mining approvals. The significant assumptions of 
timing of approvals was put through a stress test by the Committee 
and other assumptions of discount rates and commodity prices were 
reviewed by the Committee. 

The mining ban at Karnataka was lifted and production commenced 
in December 2013. The Supreme Court lifted the mining ban at Goa 
and business is currently awaiting issue of renewed mining leases for 
the commencement of mining operations at Goa. The timing of 
start-up of operations post regulatory approvals which was the key 
consideration was reviewed by the Committee. 

The Committee was also informed that the impairment assessment 
approach and assumptions are consistent across all business 
segments. With the existence of sufficient headroom over carrying 
value of assets it was concluded that no impairment is required.

The Committee reviewed the process and compliance around the 
Group revenue recognition policy and its consistent application. The 
Committee also sought management’s view on revenue recognition 
principles. The Committee was satisfied that the cut off procedures, 
transfer of risks and process followed for the pricing of goods were 
consistent and it concluded that these risks have been mitigated. 
Further receivables from GRIDCO, (which are being appealed 
following a tariff determination assessment by the Orissa Electricity 
Regulatory Commission) was assessed by the Committee together 
with revenue recognition in terms of the requirements of IAS 18. The 
tariff determination basis was also supported by an opinion from 
external legal counsel.

A comprehensive legal paper was placed before the Committee for its 
consideration. The mitigating factors were discussed by the 
Committee with senior management. The Committee also reviewed 
the probable, possible and remote analysis carried out by 
management and disclosure of contingent liabilities in the financial 
statements. In all significant disputes the management assessment 
was supported by legal opinions from external legal counsel.

A comprehensive tax paper outlining taxation disputes in respect of 
withholding taxes following past acquisitions, eligibility of tax 
incentives and output taxes and other matters was placed before the 
committee for its consideration. The Committee discussed these tax 
issues and reviewed the assessment of probable, possible and remote 
analysis and the process followed by management. The contingent 
liability disclosure was also reviewed by the Committee. In certain 
cases, views of tax experts supporting the managements assessment 
was also provided to the Committee.

96

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Auditor independence
The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing the external 
auditor’s independence and assessing their continued effectiveness. 
The Audit Committee and the Board place great emphasis on the 
objectivity of the external auditor. The current external auditor, 
Deloitte LLP, has been the Company’s auditor since its listing in 2003. 
The rotation of the audit partner’s responsibilities within Deloitte is 
required by their profession’s ethical standards and there is also 
rotation of key members within the audit team. Deloitte are required 
to rotate the audit partner responsible for the Group’s audit every five 
years and the last audit partner rotation was in 2010. The audit 
partner responsible for the audit of Indian subsidiaries was rotated in 
2012, and the next rotation will take place in 2017. 

A key part of ensuring the independence of the external auditor is to 
have in place robust policies concerning matters that may affect their 
independence. The Company has in place policies on:
•  The independence and objectivity of the external auditor.
•  Employment of former employees of the external auditor.
•  Appointment of the external auditor for non-audit services.

These policies are based on the APB Ethical Standards for Auditors 
and are regularly reviewed to ensure they are in line with best practice. 
These controls provide the Audit Committee with confidence that the 
independence of Deloitte in their audit function will be maintained. 
New requirements introduced by the Code expect companies to put 
their external audit contract out to tender at least once every 10 
years. Similarly, the Companies Act 2013, enacted in India provides 
that companies put their external audit contract out to tender on 
completion of two terms of five years. Accordingly, the Audit 
Committee are of the view that it will be less disruptive and potentially 
more effective if the Company align the tender of the UK external 
audit contract with the requirements on auditor rotation of Indian 
subsidiaries, which is due to occur in 2017.

The Audit Committee, with the assistance of the Chief Financial 
Officer and the Company Secretary, has considered at length its 
position on retendering the audit contract and agreed to put the audit 
contract out to tender no later than 2017, in line with Financial 
Reporting Council recommended transitional arrangements and the 
Companies Act enacted in India. This situation will be kept under 
strict review and if circumstances change consideration will be given 
to bringing forward the date of the tender process.

Provision of non-audit services by the external auditor 
The Group’s policy on the provision of non-audit services by the 
external auditor specifies certain services which the external auditor is 
prohibited from undertaking in order to safeguard their objectivity 
and independence. This includes work relating to the financial 
statements that will ultimately be subject to audit and the provision 
of internal audit services. The policy also identifies those services 
which the external auditor is permitted to deliver to the Group. These 
include tax advisory services, and work on mergers, acquisitions and 
disposals. Of the permitted services, any assignment in excess of 
US$100,000 may only be awarded to the external auditor with the 
prior approval of the Audit Committee.

All other permitted non-audit services and the fees paid to the 
external auditor for non-audit work are reported to the Audit 
Committee on a six-monthly basis. This report includes safeguards 
put into place to ensure that any threats to the independence of the 
external auditor are mitigated. The majority of non-audit services 
provided by the external auditor are tax advisory services, corporate 
finance matters or transaction related work. A separate team within 
Deloitte LLP is used to carry out non-audit work and overseen by a 
separate partner. An analysis of non-audit fees can be found in Note 
10 (on page 147) to the financial statements.

Performance and reappointment of the external auditor
Vedanta recognises the current requirements of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code (the ‘Code’) and transitional guidance in relation to 
audit tendering, and also notes the proposed European Union text on 
Audit Regulation and Directive and the UK Competition Commission 
response to conduct further consultation on auditor tendering.

During the year, the Audit Committee reviewed the effectiveness of 
current auditors using a survey comprising a range of questions 
covering objectivity, quality and efficiency. The Committee concluded 
that the results of the survey were positive; it was considered that the 
current auditors continue to provide a high quality audit. The 
Committee was satisfied with the external audit process and that the 
independence of the external auditors was not compromised after 
taking into account the assessment by the Audit Committee that the 
current auditors continue to be objective, independent and effective, 
and the proposed resolution to reappoint them at the 2014 Annual 
General Meeting. For these reasons, the Committee recommended to 
the Board that a resolution to reappoint them be considered at the 
2014 Annual General Meeting. 

The year ahead
It is expected that the Financial Reporting Council will introduce 
changes to the Code and guidance in respect of risk management, 
internal controls and going concern reporting following the Sharman 
report. In addition it is anticipated that EU regulation and proposals 
from the Competition Commission on audit tendering will be coming 
into force during 2014. The Audit Committee will be keeping these 
developments under review to ensure compliance within required 
timescales.

In addition, the Audit Committee’s objectives for the forthcoming 
year include:
•  Implement findings from Board Evaluation process.
•  Continued review of cyber security risks and controls.
•  Focus on oversight of Anti-Bribery Act policies and procedures.

Aman Mehta
Chairman, Audit Committee
14 May 2014

97

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Nominations Committee report

Responsibilities of the Nominations Committee
The responsibilities of the Nominations Committee are set out in its 
terms of reference which can be found on the Company’s website at 
www.vedantaresources.com and are also available on request from 
the Company Secretary. The main responsibilities of the Nominations 
Committee are to:
•  Review the structure, size and composition of the Board, including 
the skills, experience and diversity of its members and recommend 
changes to the composition that are deemed necessary.

•  Review the policy in respect of diversity on the Board and consider 
Board composition in light of the benefits of diversity, including 
gender.

•  Consider candidates for appointment as either Executive or 

Non-Executive Directors and plan for succession in particular to the 
positions of the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. 

•  Prepare a description of the role and capabilities required for 

appointments to the Board.

•  Identify suitable candidates for appointments to the Board and its 
Committees and consider the use of external advisers to facilitate 
the search for candidates from a wide range of backgrounds.
•  Recommend to the Board whether to reappoint a Non-Executive 

Director either at the end of their term of office or when put 
forward for re-election, having regard to their performance and 
ability to continue to contribute to the Board. The Committee will 
confer with Volcan in this respect under the terms of the 
Relationship Agreement.

Operation of the Nominations Committee
Other Executive Directors and members of the senior management 
team may attend meetings at the invitation of the Committee as 
appropriate. The Chairman of the Nominations Committee provides 
an update to the Board in respect of the Committee’s activities.

Anil Agarwal, Chairman, Nominations Committee

This Report provides details of the role and responsibilities of the 
Nominations Committee and the work it has undertaken during 
the year.

Membership and attendance
The Nominations Committee comprises the following Directors and 
met on five occasions during the year. 

Anil Agarwal, Chairman
Naresh Chandra (stepped down August 2013)
Euan Macdonald
Aman Mehta
Deepak Parekh (appointed August 2013)

Number of 
meetings 
attended

Percentage 
attendance

5/5
3/3
5/5
5/5
2/2

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%

Nominations Committee activities during the year
The focus this year has continued to be on issues of diversity, 
succession planning and Board composition due to the Committee’s 
awareness of the tenure of its Non-Executive Directors. Both the 
Committee and Board have discussed at length the need for 
refreshing of the Board and at the recommendation of the 
Committee, one new Non-Executive Director was appointed to the 
Board in 2012 and a further Non-Executive Director in 2013. 

The Board considers that the composition and effective operation  
of the Board is a critical component for the delivery of long-term 
shareholder value. The Nominations Committee is responsible for 
reviewing the composition of the Board to ensure the right mix of 
skills, experience, diversity and independence is present. It also plays  
a key role in ensuring the development of talent within the Group.

Recruitment process
When considering new appointments to the Board, the Nominations 
Committee oversees the preparation of a criteria specification that is 
provided to an independent specialist search agency retained to 
conduct a global search. In 2013, Spencer Stuart, a specialist search 
agency was instructed to consider a wide range of candidates taking 
into account geographical location, nationality, gender, specific skills, 
knowledge and experience, and the process culminated in the 
appointment of Mr Deepak Parekh to the Board.

98

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014The main areas of activity of the Nominations Committee during the year are summarised below:

Area of responsibility

Item

Board composition and succession planning

Governance

Non-Executive Director independence

As part of the continual cycle to refresh the Board and to address the 
issue of gender diversity, the Committee is leading the 2014 process 
to recruit new independent Non-Executive Directors to succeed 
Mr Aman Mehta and Mr Euan Macdonald who plan to step down 
from the Board when suitable candidates have been identified*. 
The Committee has considered comprehensive search briefs with 
an emphasis on recruiting female members with UK listed company 
experience to the Board.

Spencer Stuart has no other connection with the Group other 
than to provide recruitment consultancy services to the 
Nominations Committee. 

Succession planning
Succession planning during the year turned to a focus on executive 
management. The Nominations Committee had been considering for 
some time the recruitment of a new Chief Executive Officer to replace 
Mr MS Mehta when he retired as part of the succession planning 
process. Tom Albanese was identified as a potential candidate after 
an extensive search. Mr Albanese joined Vedanta Resources Holdings 
Limited, the holding company of Sesa Sterlite Limited and Konkola 
Copper Mines, as its Chairman on 16 September 2013. This gave the 
Committee a further opportunity to review his skills and suitability 
before recommending his appointment as Chief Executive Officer to 
the Board. The Board confirmed his appointment with effect from  
1 April 2014.

Diversity
The Board supports the importance of having diversity of thought 
and representation on its Board and it is one of the Nominations 
Committee’s tasks to ensure this is achieved. Board diversity has been 
considered from a number of aspects, including but not limited to 
age, gender, race and ethnic origin, cultural and educational 
background. In terms of skill sets, Board members have a wide range 
of knowledge and expertise ranging from corporate finance and 
banking to diplomacy and law. In terms of gender, the Company’s 

* 

In the interim, and to ensure the smooth transition of any new and incoming Non-Executive 
Director, the Nominations Committee recommended that Mr Mehta and Mr Macdonald 
serve on the Board for a further year following the nine year anniversary of their 
appointment.

•  Review of skills, experience and diversity and approving key search 

criteria for recruitment of new Non-Executive Directors.

•  Engagement of search consultancy to aid in recruitment process.
•  Review of candidates and recommendation of the appointment of 

a new Non-Executive Director.

•  Keeping under review potential candidates to address gender 

balance on the Board.

•  Review of succession planning for executive management.

•  Evaluation of the Committee’s performance.
•  Approval of disclosures in the Nominations Committee Report in 

the Annual Report. 

•  Review of the independence of each of the Non-Executive Directors 
prior to recommending their reappointment by shareholders at the 
Annual General Meeting.

diversity policy has an aspirational target of achieving a minimum of 
25% women on the Board by 2015. We acknowledge that at present 
there are no women on our Board and addressing the gender balance 
to meet the target on the Board has been and will continue to remain 
a top priority for the Committee. It is essential to overcome the 
reasons for lack of female representation to date. These have 
included the fact that Vedanta operates within a traditionally male 
dominated industry. Furthermore, due to cultural constraints and the 
remote geographical location of some of our operations, we face a 
number of challenges in addressing the gender balance within the 
Group. Women currently comprise 8.4% of the overall employee 
population within the Group whereas the percentage of female 
representation across the Group’s professional population is 12.4%. 
In order to achieve our target for women on the Board, we ensure 
that women candidates are considered routinely as part of the 
recruitment process. 

We also actively encourage and monitor the progress of women in 
senior positions throughout the Group. Initiatives this year included 
reviewing the barriers to women with children in returning to work. By 
supporting equal opportunities we will ensure that the pool of women 
from which management can be drawn will increase. In April 2014, 
Ms Lalita Gupte was appointed to the board of Sesa Sterlite Limited 
as an independent Non-Executive Director of that company, and 
Ms Roma Balwani joined the Group as Head of Communications 
and Corporate Social Responsibility. 

The year ahead
The Nominations Committee objectives for the coming year are:
•  Review plans for nurturing talent and improving the gender balance 

within the Group.

•  Continued focus on succession planning for the Board in order to 

ensure a balance of skills, experience and diversity.

•  A commitment to increasing the participation of women across all 

levels of the business, not least the Board of Directors. 

Anil Agarwal
Chairman, Nominations Committee
14 May 2014

99

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Sustainability Committee report 

Membership and attendance
The Sustainability Committee comprises the following Directors and 
met on four occasions during the year. 

Naresh Chandra, Chair (stepped down  

August 2013)

Euan Macdonald, Chair (appointed August 2013)
MS Mehta (stepped down April 2014)
Jeyakumar Janakaraj (stepped down May 2013) 
Kishore Kumar (appointed September 2013) 

Number of 
meetings 
attended

Percentage 
attendance

1/1
3/3
4/4
1/1
3/3

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%

Tom Albanese was appointed to the Sustainability Committee on 
1 April 2014.

Responsibilities of the Sustainability Committee
The responsibilities of the Sustainability Committee are set out in its 
terms of reference which are available on the Company’s website at 
www.vedantaresources.com and from the Company Secretary. The 
Chief Sustainability Officer acted as secretary of the Committee and 
Group subsidiary company Chief Executives or their representatives 
were invited to attend the meetings. 

The main responsibilities of the Sustainability Committee are:
•  To recommend Group sustainability policies to the Board, clearly 

setting out the commitments of the Group to manage matters of 
sustainable development effectively.

•  To advise the Board on sustainability issues to enable it to discharge 

its responsibilities, having regard to the law and the expected 
international standards of governance.

•  To outline initiatives required to institutionalise a sustainability 
culture through the involvement of employees at all levels.

•  To review and report to the Board on the performance of the Group 
with respect to the implementation of a sustainability framework.

Euan Macdonald, Chairman, Sustainability Committee

This Report provides details of the role and responsibilities of the 
Sustainability Committee and the work it has undertaken during 
the year.

“This year I was pleased to assume the Chairmanship of Vedanta’s 
Sustainability Committee. In overseeing my responsibilities as laid 
down by the Board and in managing Vedanta’s business sustainably, 
I will be guided by the three pillars of Responsible Stewardship, 
Building Strong Relationships and Adding and Sharing Value, which 
together have proven to be a valuable model for the Company’s 
sustainable growth. 

Over the course of the year, the Committee was particularly 
concerned to focus on the unacceptably high number of fatalities 
suffered across our business; to understand their root causes and to 
monitor the business response through the ‘Key Safety Focus Areas’ 
programme, launched to strengthen our mitigation of safety risks. 
The Committee also recognised that subsidiary businesses needed to 
improve their stakeholder engagement and change management 
processes. We recommended that with regards to human rights and 
child labour compliance subsidiaries businesses need to be extra 
vigilant at the loading and unloading operations in remote areas. 
Water, energy and waste consumption targets were also reviewed by 
the Committee and we emphasised the importance of having robust 
plans to ensure these targets are met. The Committee further 
recommended the hiring of a Group safety adviser to help and 
support Group companies on the safety related issue. 

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank management across 
our subsidiary businesses for their commitment to VSAP, which has 
been a demanding exercise.”

100

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Sustainability Committee activities during the year
The main areas of activity of the Sustainability Committee during the year are summarised below:

Area of responsibility

Sustainability framework

Health and safety

Environment

System development systems and performance reporting

Item

•  Providing oversight of the progress made on the development of 

the sustainability model and framework.

•  Overseeing the action plan emerging from Vedanta’s Sustainability 

Assurance programme (VSAP).

•  Review and approval of sustainability objectives and targets.

•  Review of safety statistics and incidents.
•  Monitoring and follow up of action plans in respect of fatal 

accidents.

•  Review of Key Safety Focus Area 2013–14.
•  Review of Behavioral safety initiatives at HZL.

•  Reviewing the Group’s initiatives for reduction in specific water and 

energy consumption.

•  Monitoring and follow up of higher category environment incident.
•  Review of waste utilisation plans and statistics.

•  Reviewing the implementation of Scott Wilson recommendations.
•  Review of Group SAP-EHS IT Solution.
•  Review of performance evaluation of the Sustainability Committee 

and review of terms of reference.

•  Review and approval of the Group’s Sustainable Development 

Report 2012–13.

Community engagement

•  Overseeing the internal risk assessment on human rights and 

child labour.

•  Review of expectations cited by stakeholders during the 2013 

Annual General Meeting.

Details on each of the above initiatives can be found in the Company’s Sustainability Report 2013–14 and on the Company’s website at 
www.sustainability.vedantaresources.com/home.

Euan Macdonald
Chairman, Sustainability Committee
14 May 2014

101

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Remuneration Committee letter

The Committee members and I believe that the changes set out 
above represent a significant step forward for our remuneration 
policies – both in terms of driving sustained long-term performance, 
and in alignment with good governance practices. I hope that you will 
share this view and support our proposals.

During the year conditions have remained challenging, due to a 
mining ban on iron ore, the temporary shutdown of the Tuticorin 
smelter and Lanjigarh refinery, volatile commodity prices and 
industry-wide inflationary trends and various other short-term issues. 
These factors have been reflected in the profit performance for 
the year.

In spite of this, the Company was able to deliver solid operational 
performance, the completion of the Group simplification project and 
strong cost management performance. All of these factors were 
considered and reflected in the incentives for the year. Accordingly, 
the 2013–14 annual bonus outcome for the Executive Directors was 
determined at 44% of base compensation, while the threshold 
performance targets in respect of the ESOP awards granted on 
16 May 2013 were not met and the awards lapsed in full. 

During the year, Mr MS Mehta retired as Chief Executive Officer and 
following an extensive search process, we are delighted that he was 
succeeded by Mr Tom Albanese on 1 April 2014. Mr Albanese’s 
remuneration package is structured to deliver a market competitive 
level of base compensation combined with significant performance 
related incentives. As part of his employment contract his annual 
bonus opportunity will be limited to 50% of base compensation for 
2014–15. From 2015–16 onwards his annual bonus opportunity will 
be increased in line with that of the other Executive Directors. Details 
of the remuneration paid to Mr MS Mehta on his departure are set out 
on page 109.

This is the first year in which we are formally required to report on 
remuneration under the new format required by the Department of 
Business, Innovation and Skills legislation. This year’s report on 
remuneration therefore comprises two parts: the Directors’ 
Remuneration Policy Report which sets out our policy on Directors’ 
pay and which will be subject to a binding shareholder vote; and the 
Annual Report on Remuneration, which provides details of the 
remuneration earned by Directors in the past financial year as well as 
the way in which we propose to operate in the coming year, and will 
be subject to an advisory vote.

We hope that we will receive your support on both parts of the 
Remuneration Report at the forthcoming AGM.

Euan Macdonald, Chairman, Remuneration Committee

Dear Shareholder,

During the course of the year, the Remuneration Committee (the 
‘Committee’) has undertaken a full review of our remuneration 
structures and practices. In previous years, we received feedback from 
a number of investors and proxy advisers that our remuneration 
structures were not fully aligned with usual practice for a UK-listed 
company. Many of our practices have evolved to meet the needs of 
an executive population based largely in India and we are conscious 
of the need to balance this with the expectations of our investors. We 
are therefore grateful for this input and have taken it into account 
when developing new arrangements. 

The proposed key changes to the remuneration policy are as follows:
•  Formalising the structure of the annual bonus and introducing 

bonus deferral for half of any bonus earned. 

•  Replacing the existing Employee Share Ownership Plan (‘ESOP’) 

with the Performance Share Plan (‘PSP’) for Executive Directors. PSP 
awards will have a three-year performance period and an 
additional two-year holding period on all vested shares.

•  A clawback provision will apply to both the annual bonus plan and 

PSP.

•  Introducing shareholding guidelines of 200% of base 

compensation for all Executive Directors.

Yours sincerely,

Euan Macdonald
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

102

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Directors’ Remuneration Policy report

This part of the report sets out the remuneration policy for the 
Company and has been prepared in accordance with the Large and 
Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) 
(Amendment) Regulations 2013. The policy has been developed 
taking into account the principles of the UK Corporate Governance 
Code 2012 and the views of our major shareholders and describes the 
policy to be applied from 2014–15 onwards. The policy report will be 
put to a binding shareholder vote at the 2014 AGM and the policy will 
take formal effect from 1 April 2014.

Policy overview
The key objective of the Group’s broad remuneration policy is to 
ensure that competitive and fair awards are linked to key deliverables 
and are also aligned with market practice and shareholders’ 
expectations.

The Committee ensures that remuneration policies and practices are 
designed to attract, retain and motivate the Executive Directors and 
the senior management group, while focusing on the delivery of the 
Group’s strategic and business objectives. The Committee is also 
focused on aligning the interests of the Executive Directors and the 
senior management group with those of shareholders, to build a 
sustainable performance culture.

When setting remuneration for the Executive Directors, the 
Committee takes into account the business performance, 
developments in the natural resources sector and, considering that 
the majority of the Group’s operations are based in India, similar 
information for high-performing Indian companies.

The Committee has set remuneration taking into consideration both 
UK and Indian market practice to ensure it is globally competitive as 
the Executive Directors are based in India (with the exception of Mr 
Anil Agarwal, who is UK-based), along with the majority of the Group’s 
professional management team. The Committee also considers the 
inflation rates prevalent in the UK and India in the setting of 
remuneration.

The Committee recognises that financial performance of the 
Company is heavily influenced by macro-economic considerations 
such as commodity prices and exchange rate movements. These 
factors are therefore taken into consideration when setting executive 
remuneration.

How the views of shareholders are taken into account
The Committee considers the AGM to be an opportunity to meet and 
communicate with investors and considers shareholder feedback 
received in relation to the AGM each year and guidance from 
shareholder representative bodies more generally. This feedback, plus 
any additional feedback received during any meetings from time to 
time, is then considered as part of the Company’s annual review of 
the remuneration policy. 

In addition, the Committee will seek to engage directly with major 
shareholders and their representative bodies should any material 
changes be proposed to the remuneration policy. Details of votes cast 
for and against the resolution to approve last year’s remuneration 
report and any matters discussed with shareholders during the year 
are set out in the Annual Report on Remuneration.

How the views of employees are taken into account
In setting the policy for Executive Directors’ remuneration, the 
Committee considers the pay and employment conditions across the 
Group, including annual base compensation increases across the 
general employee population and the overall spend on annual 
bonuses. Employees may be eligible to participate in the annual 
bonus arrangement and receive awards under the ESOP or PSP. 
Opportunities and performance metrics may vary by employee level 
with specific business metrics incorporated where possible. 

The Committee does not formally consult with employees in respect 
of the design of the Executive Directors’ remuneration policy, 
although the Committee will keep this under review.

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continued

Summary of the remuneration policy for Directors
The following table sets out the key aspects of the remuneration policy for Directors:

Element of pay

Purpose and link to strategy

Operation

Maximum opportunity

Performance measures

Base compensation1

Reflects individual’s 
experience and role 
within the Group.

Reward for performance 
of everyday activities.

Taxable benefits

To provide market 
competitive benefits.

The Committee reviews 
base compensation 
annually, taking 
account of the scale 
of responsibilities, the 
individual’s experience 
and performance.

Changes are 
implemented with effect 
from 1 April each year.

Base compensation 
is paid in cash on a 
monthly basis.

Base compensation 
is typically set with 
reference to a peer group 
of UK-listed mining 
comparator companies. 
Comparisons are also 
made against positions 
of comparable status, 
skill and responsibility in 
the metals and mining 
industries globally, and in 
the manufacturing and 
engineering industries 
more generally.

Benefits vary by role and 
are reviewed periodically. 

Benefits are set in line  
with local market practices.

Pension

To provide for sustained 
contribution and 
contribute towards 
retirement planning.

Directors receive pension 
contributions into their 
personal pension plan or 
local provident scheme.

Contribution rates are 
set in line with local 
market practices.

104

Business and individual 
performance are 
considered when setting 
base compensation.

There is no prescribed 
maximum annual 
increase. Base 
compensation increases 
are applied in line with 
the annual review and are 
competitive within the 
UK and Indian market 
and internationally for 
comparable companies. 
The Committee is also 
guided by the general 
increase for the employee 
population but on 
occasions may need to 
recognise, for example, 
development in role and/
or change in responsibility.

n/a

n/a

The value of benefits 
is based on the cost to 
the Company and is 
not predetermined.

Annual contribution 
of up to 15% of base 
compensation for 
the Deputy Executive 
Chairman and 20% 
of base compensation 
for the Chief 
Executive Officer.

The Executive Chairman 
does not receive post-
retirement benefits.

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Element of pay

Purpose and link to strategy

Operation

Maximum opportunity

Performance measures

Annual bonus

Incentivises executives 
to achieve specific, 
predetermined goals 
during the financial year.

Performance Share Plan 
(‘PSP’)

Encourage and reward 
strong performance 
aligned to the interests 
of shareholders.

Share ownership 
guidelines

To increase alignment 
between executives 
and shareholders.

Non-Executive 
Directors’ fees

To attract and retain high 
calibre Non-Executive 
Directors through the 
provision of market 
competitive fees.

50% paid in cash and 
50% deferred into shares 
which will vest 40% after 
the first year, and 30% 
after the second and 
third years, subject to 
continued employment.

Determined by the 
Committee after 
year-end, based on 
performance against the 
pre-determined financial 
and non-financial metrics.

Not pensionable.

Clawback provisions apply 
for overpayments due 
to misstatement or error 
and other circumstances.

Annual grant of nominal-
cost options which vest 
after three years, subject 
to Company performance 
and continued 
employment. There is an 
additional holding period 
of two years post-vesting.

Clawback provisions apply 
for overpayments due 
to misstatement or error 
and other circumstances.

Executive Directors are 
required to retain any 
vested shares (net of 
tax) under the Group’s 
share plans until the 
guideline is met.

Any new Executive 
Director will have a 
period of five years from 
recruitment or promotion 
to the Board to build 
up their shareholding 
to the required level.

Fees are paid in cash.

Fees are determined 
based on the 
significant travel and 
time commitments, 
the risk profile of the 
Company and market 
practice for similar 
roles in international 
mining groups.

Up to 150% of base 
compensation per annum.

Up to 150% of base 
compensation per annum.

The bonus is measured 
against a balanced 
scorecard of performance 
metrics. At least 50% of 
the bonus potential will 
be based on financial 
performance and the 
remainder of the bonus 
potential will be based on 
operational, strategic and 
sustainability measures.

The Committee has the 
ability to adjust the bonus 
outturn if it believes 
that the outturn is not 
reflective of the Group’s 
underlying performance 
or warranted based 
on the Health, Safety 
and Environment 
(‘HSE’) record. 

PSP awards are subject to 
a performance condition 
based on relative total 
shareholder return (‘TSR’). 

30% of an award 
will vest for achieving 
median performance, 
increasing pro rata 
to full vesting for the 
achievement of stretch 
performance targets.

The Committee has 
the ability to adjust the 
PSP outturn if it believes 
that the outturn is not 
reflective of the Group’s 
underlying performance 
or warranted based 
on the HSE record.

200% of base 
compensation for 
Executive Directors2.

n/a

Business and individual 
performance are 
considered when 
setting fees.

As for the Executive 
Directors, there is no 
prescribed maximum 
annual increase. The 
Committee is guided by 
the general increase for 
the employee population 
but on occasions may 
need to recognise, for 
example, development 
in role and/or change in 
responsibility. 

1  Base compensation includes base salary plus fixed cash allowances and statutory benefits, which are a normal part of the fixed remuneration package for employees in India. 
2  A similar requirement but with a lower salary multiple applies to members of the Executive Committee.

105

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continued

Selection of performance metrics
The annual bonus is based against a balanced scorecard of financial, 
operational, sustainability and strategic metrics. The mix of targets 
will be reviewed each year by the Committee to ensure that they 
remain appropriate to reflect the priorities for the Group in the year 
ahead. A sliding scale of targets is set to encourage continuous 
improvement and challenge the delivery of stretch performance.

The PSP is based on relative TSR performance, which provides an 
external assessment of the Company’s performance against the 
market. It also aligns the rewards received by executives with the 
returns received by shareholders. A sliding scale of challenging 
performance targets is set. The Committee will review the choice of 
performance measures and the appropriateness of the performance 
targets prior to each PSP grant. The Committee reserves the discretion 

to set different targets for future awards, without consulting with 
shareholders, providing that, in the opinion of the Committee, the 
new targets are no less challenging in light of the circumstances at the 
time than those used previously. The targets for awards granted 
under this remuneration policy are set out for shareholder approval in 
the Annual Report on Remuneration.

Remuneration scenarios for Executive Directors
The charts below illustrate how the Executive Directors’ remuneration 
packages vary at different levels of performance under the ongoing 
policy, which will apply from 1 April 2014, subject to shareholder 
approval. Two years’ illustrations have been included for the Chief 
Executive Officer to show the impact of the maximum annual bonus 
opportunity for 2014–15 and 2015–16. 

Executive Chairman

Deputy Executive Chairman

Maximum

 26%

 37%

 37%

 £6,500,345

Maximum

 28%

 36%

 36%

 £4,252,000

On-target

 39%

 33%

 28%

 £4,330,000

On-target

 42%

 32%

 26%

 £2,886,000

Minimum

 100%

 £1,676,000

Minimum

 100%

 £1,217,000

Chief Executive Officer – 2014–15

Chief Executive Officer – 2015–16

Maximum

 38%

 15%  46%

 £3,250,000

Maximum

 30%

 35%

 35%

 £4,250,000

On-target

 54%

 13%  33%

 £2,300,000

On-target

 43%

 31%

 26%

 £2,800,000

Minimum

 100%

 £1,250,000

Minimum

 100%

 £1,250,000

 Total fixed pay

 Annual bonus

 Performance share plan

Notes
1  Base compensation levels are based on those applying on 1 April 2014 (converted at a rate 

of INR99.029% : £1).

2  The value of taxable benefits is based on the cost of supplying those benefits (as disclosed) 
for the year ending 31 March 2014 in the case of Messrs Anil Agarwal and Navin Agarwal. 
Mr Tom Albanese’s benefits have been estimated at 5% of base compensation.

3  The value of pension receivable by the Deputy Executive Chairman and Chief Executive 
Officer in 2014–15 is taken to be 15% and 20% of base compensation respectively.

4  The on-target level of bonus assumed to be 60% of the maximum annual bonus 

opportunity.

5  The on-target level of the PSP assumed to be 50% of the face value of the award at grant.
6  Share price movement and dividend accrual have not been incorporated into the values 

shown above.

Approach to recruitment and promotions
The remuneration package for a new Executive Director i.e. base 
compensation, taxable benefits, pension, annual bonus and long-
term incentive awards, would be set in accordance with the terms of 
the Company’s prevailing approved remuneration policy at the time 
of appointment and would reflect the experience of the individual. 

106

The base compensation for a new executive may be set below the 
normal market rate, with phased increases over the first few years, as 
the executive gains experience in their new role. Annual bonus 
potential will be limited to 150% of base compensation and 
long-term incentives will be limited to 150% of base compensation 
per annum. 

In addition the Committee may offer additional cash and/or 
share-based elements when it considers these to be in the best 
interests of the Company (and therefore shareholders) to take 
account of remuneration relinquished when leaving the former 
employer and would reflect the nature, time horizons and 
performance requirements attaching to that remuneration. 

For an internal Executive Director appointment, any variable pay 
element awarded in respect of the prior role may be allowed to pay 
out according to its terms, adjusted as relevant to take into account 
the appointment. In addition, any other ongoing remuneration 
obligations existing prior to appointment may continue, provided that 
they are put to shareholders for approval at the earliest opportunity. 

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014For external and internal appointments, the Committee may agree 
that the Company will meet certain relocation expenses and 
continuing allowances as appropriate.

For the appointment of a new Chairman or Non-Executive Director, 
the fee arrangement would be set in accordance with the approved 
remuneration policy at that time.

Service contracts for Executive Directors
The Committee reviews the contractual terms for new Executive 
Directors to ensure these reflect best practice.

Mr Anil Agarwal is employed under a contract of employment with 
the Company for a rolling term but which may be terminated by not 
less than six months’ notice. Provision is made in Mr Anil Agarwal’s 
contract for payment to be made in lieu of notice on termination 
which is equal to base compensation.

Mr Navin Agarwal has a letter of appointment with the Company 
which is a rolling contract and may be terminated by giving six 
months’ notice. Mr Navin Agarwal has a service agreement with Sesa 
Sterlite Limited which expires on 31 July 2018, with a notice period of 
three months or base compensation in lieu thereof.

The default treatment under the PSP is that any outstanding awards 
lapse on cessation of employment. However, in certain prescribed 
circumstances, such as death, ill-health, disability, retirement or other 
circumstances at the discretion of the Committee, ‘good leaver’ 
status may be applied. For good leavers, awards will normally vest on 
the original vesting date, subject to the satisfaction of the relevant 
performance conditions at that time and reduced pro rata to reflect 
the proportion of the performance period actually served. However, 
the Committee has discretion to determine that awards vest at an 
earlier date and/or to disapply time pro-rating, although it is 
envisaged that this would only be applied in exceptional 
circumstances. Any such incidents, where discretion is applied by the 
Committee, will be disclosed in the next year’s Annual Report on 
Remuneration.

The default treatment for deferred annual bonus awards is that any 
outstanding awards lapse on cessation of employment. However, in 
certain ‘good leaver’ circumstances (as described under the PSP 
above) awards will normally vest in full on the original vesting date.

In determining whether an executive should be treated as a good 
leaver or not, the Committee will take into account the performance 
of the individual and the reasons for their departure.

Mr Tom Albanese has a separate letter of appointment with the 
Company and Sesa Sterlite Limited on a fixed three-year term which 
expires on 31 March 2017, but which may be terminated by not less 
than three months’ notice. Provision is made in Mr Tom Albanese’s 
contract for payment to be made in lieu of notice on termination 
which is equal to three months’ base compensation and benefits.

In the event of a change of control all unvested awards under the 
deferred annual bonus and long-term incentive arrangements would 
vest, to the extent that any performance conditions attached to the 
relevant awards have been achieved. The award will, other than in 
exceptional circumstances, be pro-rated for the period of the financial 
year served. 

It is the Group’s policy that the notice period in the Directors’ service 
contracts does not exceed 12 months.

Copies of all Executive Directors’ service contracts and the letters 
of appointment of the Non-Executive Directors are available for 
inspection during normal business hours at the registered office of 
the Company, and available for inspection at the AGM.

Payments for loss of office
The Executive Directors’ service contracts provide for pay in lieu of 
notice in respect of base compensation, as set out above.

The annual bonus may be payable with respect to the period of the 
financial year served although it will be pro-rated for time and paid at 
the normal payout date. Any share-based entitlements granted to an 
Executive Director under the Company’s share plans will be 
determined based on the relevant plan rules. 

Letters of appointment for Non-Executive Directors
The Non-Executive Directors have letters of appointment which may 
be terminated by either party by giving three months’ notice. The 
Non-Executive Directors’ letters of appointment set out the time 
requirements expected of them in the performance of their duties. 
Non-Executive Directors are normally expected to spend at least 
20 days per year in the performance of their duties for the Company. 
There is no provision in the letters of appointment of the Non-
Executive Directors for compensation to be paid in the event of 
early termination. 

Legacy arrangements
For avoidance of doubt, in approving this Directors’ Remuneration 
Policy Report, authority is given to the Company to honour any 
commitments entered into with current or former Directors (such as 
the vesting of past share awards) that have been disclosed to and 
approved by shareholders in this and previous Remuneration Reports. 
Details of any payments to former Directors will be set out in the 
Annual Report on Remuneration as they arise. 

107

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Annual Report on remuneration

Annual Report on Remuneration
This part of the report has been prepared in accordance with 
Schedule 8 of the Large- and Medium-sized Companies and Groups 
(Accounts and Reports) (Amendment) Regulations 2013 and 9.8.6R 
of the UK’s Listing Rules. The Annual Report on Remuneration will be 
put to an advisory shareholder vote at the 2014 AGM. The 
information on pages 109 to 113 has been audited.

Membership of the Remuneration Committee
The members of the Remuneration Committee who served during the 
year, all of whom are independent Non-Executive Directors, are 
shown below together with their attendance at Remuneration 
Committee meetings:

Name

Euan Macdonald (Chairman)
Aman Mehta
Geoffrey Green
Naresh Chandra

Meetings 
attended

Percentage 
attendance

4/4
4/4
2/2
2/2

100%
100%
100%
100%

The Committee’s responsibilities are set out in its terms of  
reference, which are available on the Company’s website at  
www.vedantaresources.com or on request from the Company 
Secretary. The Committee’s terms of reference were reviewed and 
amended during the year. Amendments made included clarifying 
that the Committee is exclusively responsible for the selection criteria 
and appointment of any remuneration consultants and that the 
Committee may commission any reports or surveys necessary for 
carrying out its work.

The Committee’s responsibilities primarily include:
•  setting the Group’s overall policy on executive and senior 

management remuneration;

•  determining the remuneration packages for individual Executive 
Directors, including base compensation, performance-based 
short- and long-term incentives, pensions and other benefits;
•  approving the design and operation of the Company’s share 

incentive schemes; and

•  reviewing and determining the terms of the service agreements of 

the Executive Directors.

Advisers to the Committee
The Committee retained New Bridge Street (‘NBS’), a trading name of 
Aon plc, to provide independent advice on remuneration matters. NBS 
is a signatory to the Remuneration Consultants Group’s Code of 
Conduct, which requires its advice to be objective and impartial. 
Neither NBS nor any part of Aon plc provided other services to the 
Company during the year. The Committee has reviewed the 
operating processes in place at NBS and is satisfied that the advice it 
receives is objective and independent. The Committee considers 
various external reports from NBS on remuneration in the UK as well 
as India to provide detailed insights that aid remuneration decisions. 
The fees paid to NBS in respect of work carried out in 2013–14 were 
£81,659. In addition, advisers to the Committee during the year and 
their roles are set out below.
•  Mr A Thirunavukkarasu (President – Group HR) advises the 
Committee on general remuneration policies and practices 
followed in India and the global market, Executive Directors’ 
remuneration and benefits and remuneration policy applicable to 
the wider employee population within the Group.

•  The Executive Directors provide input on remuneration packages 

for the senior management group to ensure parity amongst senior 
management in different businesses but at similar roles. Executive 
Directors may attend meetings at the invitation of the Committee 
but no Director is present during discussions of their own 
remuneration.

•  Ernst & Young LLP review and confirm the Company’s TSR 

performance in respect of the Long-Term Incentive Plan. Ernst & 
Young also provide tax and internal audit services to the Group.

Statement of shareholder voting
At the 2013 Annual General Meeting, a resolution was proposed to 
shareholders to approve the Directors’ Remuneration Report for the 
year ended 31 March 2013. This resolution received the following 
votes from shareholders: 

Votes cast in favour
Votes cast against
Total votes cast
Abstentions

2013 AGM

168,599,957
48,980,191
217,580,148
187,876

77.49%
22.51%
100%

During the year, the Committee consulted the Company’s major 
shareholders on the decision to make amendments to the structure of 
the short- and long-term incentive arrangements. Based on the 
feedback from the 2013 AGM a new policy was developed, which 
sought to address investor concerns and this was shared informally 
with major shareholders and governance bodies in early 2014. The 
majority of those consulted indicated their support and several 
investors reverted with suggestions for further revisions and the 
Committee incorporated the majority of these suggestions into the 
final policy which is set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Policy 
Report. 

108

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Directors’ remuneration earned in 2013–14 (Audited)
The table below summarises Directors’ remuneration received during the year ended 31 March 2014 and the prior year for comparison. 

Executive Directors
Anil Agarwal1

Navin Agarwal2, 3, 4

MS Mehta2, 3, 5
(left on 31 March 2014)

Non-Executive Directors
Naresh Chandra
(left on 1 August 2013)

Geoffrey Green
(appointed 1 August 2012)

Euan Macdonald

Aman Mehta6

Deepak Parekh
(appointed 1 June 2013)

Base 
compensation 
including 
salary or fees 
£000

1,608
1,475

916
953

391
391

52
182

92
53

131
100

137
155

83
–

2013–14
2012–13

2013–14
2012–13

2013–14
2012–13

2013–14
2012–13

2013–14
2012–13

2013–14
2012–13

2013–14
2012–13

2013–14
2012–13

Taxable 
Benefits 
£0007

Pension 
£0008

Annual 
bonus 
£0009

Long-term 
incentives 
£00010

68
46

52
49

2
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

140
147

31
31

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

700
590

390
417

140
147

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
445

–
303

–
135 

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

Total 
£00011

2,376
2,556

1,498
1,869

564
704

52
182

92
53

131
100

137
155

83
–

1  Mr Anil Agarwal’s taxable benefits in kind include provision of a car and fuel in the UK and India for business purposes, housing benefit (in India) and club membership.
2  For the financial year ended 31 March 2014, Mr Navin Agarwal received a Sterlite salary of INR79,835,046 excluding medical and leave travel allowances, Vedanta fees of £85,000 and Cairn 

India Limited fees of INR140,000. Mr MS Mehta received a Sterlite salary of INR28,651,081 excluding medical and leave travel allowances and Vedanta fees of £85,000.

3  The value of the remuneration paid to Messrs Navin Agarwal and MS Mehta during the year differs from the base compensation levels on page 114 due to fluctuations in the INR/sterling 

exchange rates during the year.

4  Mr Navin Agarwal’s taxable benefits in kind include housing and related benefits, club membership, and use of a car and driver.
5  Mr MS Mehta’s taxable benefits in kind include use of a car and driver.
6  The fees paid to Mr Aman Mehta includes the salary of £2,494 paid by Cairn India Limited and its subsidiaries after it became a subsidiary of the Group.
7  Non-Executive Directors are reimbursed for expenses incurred while on Company business. No other benefits are provided to Non-Executive Directors.
8  All of the Group’s pension schemes are based on cash contribution and do not confirm an entitlement to a defined benefit. Pension contributions are made into the Deputy Executive Chairman 
and Chief Executive Officer’s personal pension schemes (or local provident fund) and will become payable on the retirement, normally at age 58. The Executive Chairman does not receive 
pension benefits.

9  Amounts shown for 2013–14 relate to the payment of the annual bonus for the year ended 31 March 2014. Further details of this payment are set out below.
10  Amounts shown for 2013–14 relate to the vesting of the 2013 ESOP award. The performance period for this award ended on 31 March 2014 and the performance conditions did not meet the 

threshold targets resulting in nil vesting.

11  The exchange rate applicable as at 31 March 2014 was INR96.2325 to £1; and at 31 March 2013 was INR82.3209 to £1.

109

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Annual Report on remuneration

continued

Annual bonus
The annual bonus for the 2013–14 financial year was based on performance against a balanced scorecard of financial and sustainability 
measures and strategic projects. Performance against these targets is set out below:

Financial

Strategic

Sustainability 

EBITDA
Profit after tax
Free cash flow
Group simplification project
Gender diversity initiatives
Sustainability scorecard1
Serious injury avoidance

Total 

Bonus achieved2
Anil Agarwal
Navin Agarwal
MS Mehta

Executive 
Chairman 
weighting

Deputy 
Executive 
Chairman 
weighting

Chief 
Executive 
Officer 
weighting

Actual

% of 
maximum

20%
10%
20%
15%
15%
10%
10%

20%
15%
15%
20%
10%
10%
10%

25% US$4.49bn
15% US$0.99bn
20% US$3.02bn
15%
5%
10%
10%

100%

100%

100%

44%
44%
44%

1  Sustainability scorecard measures include resource use and management, stakeholder engagement and management, compliance and training, incident investigation and change 

management. 

2  For each element of the annual bonus, zero bonus is paid for nil performance increasing to full payment at stretch performance. 

The bonus payment in relation to performance in the 2013–14 financial year will be payable wholly in cash. Achievement of performance levels 
envisaged in the business plan proved to be more challenging than expected in view of the continuing mining ban, and the closure of the 
Tuticorin smelter and Lanjigarh refinery. The Remuneration Committee analysed the factors affecting the current year performance and also 
considered the initiatives put in place to address disruptions to production as well as the completion of Group simplification in August 2013.
Based on these factors the Committee awarded a bonus of 44% to each of the Executive Directors.

Vesting of long-term incentive awards
ESOP awards granted and vested during the year
The following award was granted to the Executive Directors on 16 May 2013:

Anil Agarwal
Navin Agarwal
MS Mehta

Type of award

Nominal-cost option
Nominal-cost option
Nominal-cost option

Basis of award 
granted 
(% of base 
compensation)

Share price at 
date of grant

93% £12.72
87% £12.72
97% £12.72

Number of 
shares over 
which award 
was granted

125,000
85,000
38,000

% of face 
value that 
would vest 
at threshold 
performance

30%
30%
30%

Face value 
of award 
(£’000)

£1,590
£1,081
£483

Vesting determined by 
performance over

One financial year  
to 31 March 2014

110

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014The performance conditions attached to the above award and actual performance against these conditions is as follows:

Metric

Performance condition

Market Capitalisation of Vedanta Resources 

Relative TSR vs. a bespoke group of 15 

plc (50%)

Weighted average score of Group businesses 

(40%)

Sustainability (10%)

Total vesting

companies

Balanced business scorecard based on 
financial, operational and strategic 
measures for 15 business units1

Sustainability scorecard2 and Lost Time 

Injuries Frequency Rate

Threshold 
target

Median

85%

Stretch  
target

Actual 
performance

Vesting level

Upper 
decile
90%

Ranked 
10th
55%

Nil%

Nil%

34%

Nil%

Nil%

1  Scorecard measures include volume, cost of production, free cash flow, EBITDA, gross working capital, asset optimisation, mine planning and development, stakeholder relations and project 

milestones.

2  Sustainability scorecard measures include resource use and management, stakeholder engagement and management, compliance and training, incident investigation and change 

management. 

Share plan awards
The table below shows the Directors’ interests in the Company’s share plans:

 31 March 
2013 
Number of 
shares

Granted in 
2013–14 
Number of 
shares

Vested in 
2013–14 
Number of 
shares

Lapsed in 
2013–14 
Number of 
shares

31 March 
2014 
Number of 
shares

Exercise price 
US cents 

Award price 
£

Earliest/latest exercise date

Anil Agarwal
1 August 2011
24 September 2012
16 May 2013

Navin Agarwal
1 August 2011
24 September 2012
16 May 2013

MS Mehta
1 August 2011
24 September 2012
16 May 2013

Total

LTIP1
ESOP2
ESOP3

LTIP1
ESOP2
ESOP3

LTIP1
ESOP2
ESOP3

73,500
125,000
–

–
–
125,000

–
22,500
–

–
80,000
125,000

57,500
85,000
–

21,000
38,000
–

–
–
85,000

–
–
38,000

–
15,300
–

–
6,840
–

–
54,400
85,000

–
24,320
38,000

73,500
22,500
–

57,500
15,300
–

21,000
6,840
–

648,000

248,000

44,640

406,720

196,640

0.1
0.1
0.1

0.1
0.1
0.1

0.1
0.1
0.1

1 Aug 14 – 1 Jan 15
17.20
10.56
24 Sep 13 – 16 Mar 16
12.72 16 May 14 – 16 Nov 16 

1 Aug 14 – 1 Jan 15
17.20
10.56
24 Sep 13 – 16 Mar 16 
12.72 16 May 14 – 16 Nov 16 

1 Aug 14 – 1 Jan 15
17.20
10.56
24 Sep 13 – 16 Mar 16 
12.72 16 May 14 – 16 Nov 16

1  The vesting of LTIP awards is subject to measurement of the Company’s performance in terms of TSR, being the movement in the Company’s share price (plus reinvested dividends), compared 
over a three-year period from the date of grant with the performance of a specific list of companies, selected as being the Group’s main peers and competitors. The full list of companies against 
whose performance Vedanta’s TSR is measured (the ‘Comparator Group’) is as follows: 
•  Anglo American
•  BHP Billiton
•  Rio Tinto
•  GlencoreXstrata
•  Vale
•  Antofagasta
•  Grupo Mexico
•  Hindalco
•  Alcoa
•  Teck
The extent to which an award vests will depend on the Company’s TSR ranking against the Comparator Group at the end of the three-year performance period. 40% of an award will vest for 
the achievement of median TSR, increasing on a straight-line basis to full vesting for the achievement of upper quartile TSR.

2  In respect of the ESOP awards made on 24 September 2012 the performance targets were partially met therefore only 36% of the grant vested as a result 50% of the shares vested on 24 

September 2013. 30% and 20% of the shares will vest on 24 September 2014 and 24 September 2015 respectively, subject to continued employment. 

3  The threshold performance targets in respect of the ESOP awards granted on 16 May 2013 were not met and the awards lapsed in full. 

111

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Annual Report on remuneration

continued

External appointments
The Board’s policy on external appointments is that an Executive Director may, only with the prior approval of the Board, accept an 
appointment external to the Group (other than any appointment as a Non-Executive Director to related parties or Volcan Investments Limited 
(‘Volcan’) in the case of Messrs Anil Agarwal and Navin Agarwal) of a publicly listed company anywhere and that the fees for any such 
appointment may be retained by the individual.

From 1 April 2014 Mr Tom Albanese has undertaken the role of Chief Executive Officer and is a non-executive director at Franco-Nevada 
Corporation where he will retain any remuneration paid to him. None of the other Executive Directors currently receive fees for non-executive 
appointments with other companies. 

Directors’ interests in ordinary shares
The interests of the Directors in the shares of the Company as at the year end are set out below.

Anil Agarwal1
Anil Agarwal2
Navin Agarwal1
MS Mehta (left on 31 March 2014)
Naresh Chandra (stepped down on 1 August 2013)
Geoffrey Green
Euan Macdonald
Aman Mehta
Deepak Parekh (appointed 1 June 2013)

Beneficially owned 
at 31 March 2013 
or on appointment

Beneficially owned 
at 31 March 2014 
or on departure

Outstanding LTIP 
and ESOP awards 
(not subject to 
performance)

173,042,443
87,240
223,160
41,857
–
–
–
–
–

185,856,132
109,740
188,460
48,697
–
–
–
–
–

–
22,500
15,300
6,840
–
–
–
–
–

Shareholding  
as a % of base 
compensation3

99562%

154%
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a

Shareholding 
requirement met?

Yes

No
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a

1  Mr Anil Agarwal and Mr Navin Agarwal each held nominee shares in direct and indirect subsidiaries. These holdings are non-beneficial.
2  Mr Anil Agarwal’s holding of 185,856,132 Vedanta ordinary shares are registered in the name of Volcan Investments Limited, which is a company owned by a family trust.
3  Based on a share price of £9.02 as at 31 March 2014.
4  Mr Tom Albanese was appointed Chief Executive Officer on 1 April 2014 held 65,250 shares on this date. 

No changes in the above Directors’ interests have taken place between 31 March 2014 and the date of this report.

Payments to past Directors (Audited)
No payments were made to past Executive Directors during the year ended 31 March 2014.

Payments for loss of office (Audited)
No payments were made in respect of loss of office during the year ended 31 March 2014. Mr MS Mehta left the business on 31 March 2014 
and his remuneration was processed in line with his contractual terms and conditions. No payments for compensation or loss of office were 
paid to, or receivable by, any Executive Director.

Percentage change in remuneration levels 
The table below shows the movement in base compensation, taxable benefits and annual bonus for the Executive Chairman between the 
2012–13 and 2013–14 financial years, compared to that for the average employee.

Executive Chairman (£’000)

Base compensation
Taxable benefits
Bonus

Average per employee (£’000)
Base compensation
Taxable benefits
Bonus

112

% change

nil%
48%
4%

11%
nil%
6%

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Relative importance of the spend on pay
The table below shows the movement in spend on staff costs between the 2012–13 and 2013–14 financial years, compared to dividends.

Staff costs
Number of staff
Dividends

2012–13

2013–14

% change

US$725.6m
31,071

801.6
29,154
US$153.5m US$162.5

11%
6%
6%

Performance graph and Executive Chairman pay
The graph below shows the TSR in respect of the Company over the last five financial years, compared with the TSR for the FTSE All Share 
Mining Index. The FTSE All Share Mining Index was chosen as it is the most relevant to compare the Company’s performance against its peers.

Total shareholder return (£)

500

400

300

200

100

0

31 March
2009

31 March
2010

31 March
2011

31 March
2012

31 March
2013

31 March
2014

Vedanta Resources plc

FTSE All Share Mining Index

Source: Thomson Reuters
This graph shows the value, by 31 March 2014, of £100 invested in Vedanta Resources plc
on 31 March 2009 compared with the value of £100 invested in the FTSE All Share Mining Index.
The other points plotted are the values at intervening financial year-ends.

The total remuneration figures for the Executive Chairman during each of the last five financial years are shown in the table below. The 
Executive Chairman’s remuneration is shown since he is the highest-paid Executive Director. Consistent with the calculation methodology for the 
single figure for total remuneration, the total remuneration figure includes the total annual bonus and long-term incentive award based on that 
year’s performance. The annual bonus payout and long-term incentive award vesting level as a percentage of the maximum opportunity are 
also shown for each of these years.

£’000

Total remuneration 
Annual bonus (%)
LTIP/ESOP vesting (%)

Year ending 31 March

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

£1,378
30%
n/a1

£2,066
43%
40%

£2,010
39%
n/a1

£2,556
40%
36%

£2,376
44%
nil%

1  Due to the timings of long-term incentive grants, there were no awards with performance periods ending during these financial years.

113

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Annual Report on remuneration

continued

Remuneration decisions taken in respect of the financial year ending 31 March 2015
Base compensation
In setting base compensation for 2014–15, the Committee considered external market data and the increase in base compensation for the 
senior management group and the workforce generally, where the average increase across the Group will be 10%. This increase will not apply to 
the Executive Directors and accordingly base compensation will be as follows: 

Anil Agarwal
Navin Agarwal1
Tom Albanese2

Base 
compensation 
from 
1 April 2013 
£000

Base 
compensation 
from 
1 April 2014
£000 

1,608
1,118
–

1,608
1,012
1,000

% increase 

nil
9%
n/a

1  Mr Navin Agarwal’s salary increased in Indian currency terms by 9%, although currency movements have led to a reduction in the sterling equivalent versus last year. The value of the base 

compensation paid to Mr Navin Agarwal during the coming year may also differ in sterling terms to that stated here if there are fluctuations in the INR/sterling exchange rates.

2  Mr Tom Albanese has undertaken the role of Chief Executive Officer since 1 April 2014.

Annual bonus awards to be granted in 2014–15
For the 2014–15, the annual bonus opportunity will be increased to 150% of base compensation for Messrs Anil Agarwal and Navin Agarwal. 
Under the terms of his employment contract, Mr Tom Albanese’s annual bonus opportunity will be limited to 50% of base compensation for 
2014–15. The annual bonus will be based on a balanced scorecard of financial, strategic and sustainability measures and in the case of Messrs 
Anil Agarwal and Navin Agarwal will be weighted 50%, 30% and 20% respectively and in the case of Mr Tom Albanese, 60%, 20% and 20%. 
An underpin will operate where the bonus outturn may be scaled back at the discretion of the Committee if the outturn is not reflective of the 
Group’s underlying performance or warranted based on the HSE record. The Committee has chosen not to disclose, in advance, the performance 
targets for the forthcoming year as these include items which the Committee considers commercially sensitive. Full retrospective disclosure of 
the targets and performance against them will be seen in next year’s Annual Remuneration on Report.

PSP awards to be granted in 2014–15
Subject to shareholder approval of the new PSP plan, the Executive Directors’ 2014 PSP opportunity will be 150% of base compensation. The 
2014–15 PSP award will be subject to the following performance conditions:

Performance condition

Threshold target (30% vesting)

Stretch target (100% vesting)

End measurement point

Relative TSR vs a bespoke group of 

Median

Upper quintile

15 companies1

Final three months of the 

performance period i.e. three 
months to 31 March 2017

1  The full list of companies against whose performance Vedanta’s TSR is measured is as follows Alcoa, Anglo American, Antofagasta, BHP Billiton, Boliden, Dragon Oil, First Quantum, 

GlencoreXstrata, Grupo Mexico, Hindalco Industries, OZ Minerals, Petrofac, Rio Tinto, Tullow Oil and Vale.

An underpin will operate where the PSP award may be scaled back at the discretion of the Committee if vesting is not reflective of the Group’s 
underlying performance or warranted based on the HSE record. 

In order to improve the alignment of interest between the Executive Directors and shareholders, a holding period will be attached to vested PSP 
awards, requiring the vested shares to be held (net of tax) for a further two years. 

114

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Non-Executive Directors fees
As detailed in the remuneration policy, fees for the Non-Executive 
Directors are determined by the Board, based on the significant travel 
and time commitments, the risk profile of the Company and market 
practice for similar roles in international mining groups. A summary of 
current fees is as follows:

Board membership
Non-Executive Director
Senior Independent Non-Executive Director

Committee membership 
Audit Committee Chairman
Remuneration Committee Chairman
Nominations Committee Chairman
Sustainability Committee Chairman
Member of Audit Committee
Member of Remuneration Committee
Member of Nominations Committee
Member of Sustainability Committee

1  Increase to take effect from 1 April 2014.

2013–14 
£000

2014–15¹
£000

85
15

20
17.5
–
20 
10
10
7.5
–

85
18

20
17.5
–
20
10
10
7.5
–

Approval of the Directors’ Remuneration Report
The Directors’ Remuneration Report, including both the Directors’ 
Remuneration Policy Report and Annual Remuneration on Report, 
was approved by the Board on 14 May 2014.

Euan Macdonald
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

115

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014The Directors’ report

Purpose of the Directors’ report
The Directors are pleased to present their Annual Report on the 
business of the Group, together with the financial statements and 
auditor’s report, for the year ended 31 March 2014. 

Taken together with the interim dividend of 21 US cents per ordinary 
share paid to shareholders on 19 December 2013, the total dividend 
for the year is 61 US cents per ordinary share (2013: 58 US cents per 
ordinary share).

The purpose of the Directors’ Report is to provide shareholders with 
certain statutory information about the Company, its Directors and 
operations. The Strategic Report, informs shareholders and helps 
them assess how the Directors have performed their duty to promote 
the success of the Company. In addition, as a company listed on the 
London Stock Exchange, it is required to provide information which 
includes amongst other things, details of the Company’s share capital, 
voting rights, rules on Directors’ appointments and significant 
agreements that alter on change of control.

Strategic Report
The Strategic Report has been prepared in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006 which requires the Company to set out a fair 
review of the business of the Group during the financial year, including 
an analysis of the position of the Group at the end of the financial 
year and the trends and factors likely to affect the future 
development, performance and position of the business. The 
Strategic Report can be found on pages 2 to 75.

Corporate Governance
In accordance with the Financial Conduct Authority’s Disclosure and 
Transparency Rules (‘DTR’) 7.2.1 the disclosures required by DTR7.2.2R 
to DTR7.2.5 and DTR7.2.7 may be found in the Corporate Governance 
Report on pages 80 to 92. The Corporate Governance Report is 
incorporated into this Directors’ report by reference. Information 
referred to in DTR7.2.6 is located in this Directors’ Report. 

The Strategic Report and other sections of this Annual Report contain 
forward looking statements. By their nature, forward looking 
statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to 
events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in 
the future and may be beyond the Company’s ability to control or 
predict. Forward looking statements and past performance are 
therefore not guarantees of future performance. The information 
contained in the Strategic Report has been prepared on the basis of 
information and knowledge available to the Directors at the date of 
preparation and the Company does not undertake to update or revise 
the content during the year ahead.

Important events subsequent to the year end
Events since the balance sheet date are summarised in Note 42 on 
page 186 of the financial statements.

Greenhouse gas emissions reporting
Disclosures required in respect carbon dioxide emissions may be 
found in the Strategic Report on page 27.

Dividends
The Directors recommend a final dividend for the year ended 31 
March 2014 of 39 US cents per ordinary share (2013: 37 US cents per 
ordinary share). Subject to shareholders approving this 
recommendation at the Annual General Meeting on 1 August 2014, 
the final dividend will be paid on 8 August 2014 to shareholders on 
the register of members as at 11 July 2014.

116

Directors
The names, specific responsibilities and biographical details of the 
Company’s current Board of Directors are shown on pages 76 to 77 
and details of the Directors who held office during the year ended 31 
March 2014 are shown in the Corporate Governance Report on page 
80. Details of the remuneration of the Directors, their interests in the 
shares of the Company and service contracts are contained in the 
Directors’ remuneration report on pages 103 to 115.

Appointment and replacement of Directors
The Company’s Articles of Association (the ‘Articles’) specify that the 
minimum number of Directors of the Company, unless determined by 
ordinary resolution, shall be two. There is no limit on the maximum 
number of Directors. The Company or the Board may appoint any 
person to be a Director. Any Director appointed by the Board shall 
hold office only until the next general meeting and is then eligible for 
election by the shareholders. The Articles specify that at least 
one-third of the Directors, or if their number is not three or multiple of 
three, the number nearest to one-third, shall retire from office. The 
Directors to retire by rotation are those who have been longest in 
office since appointment or reappointment. However, in accordance 
with the requirements of the UK Corporate Governance Code all of 
the Directors will retire at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting 
and being eligible will offer themselves for re-election.

Powers of the Directors
Subject to the provisions of the Companies Act 2006 and the 
Company’s Articles and to any directions given by special resolution, 
the business of the Company is to be managed by the Board which 
may exercise all the powers of the Company.

Directors’ and officers’ liability insurance and indemnities
The Company purchases and maintains liability insurance for its 
Directors and officers and those of the subsidiaries of the Group, as 
permitted by the Companies Act 2006. The insurance policy does not 
provide cover where the Director has acted fraudulently or 
dishonestly. The Company believes that it is appropriate to provide 
such cover to protect Directors from innocent error as the Directors 
carry significant liability under criminal and civil law and under the UK 
Listing, Prospectus and Disclosure and Transparency Rules, and face a 
range of penalties.

In addition the Company’s Articles contain an indemnity provision in 
favour of the Directors against proceedings brought by third parties, 
subject to the Companies Act 2006, to allow the Company to pay 
legal defence costs for the Director where the Director is exonerated.

Employees
Information on the Group’s employees and its policies with respect to 
employees can be found in the Sustainable Development Report.

Political donations
It is the Board’s policy that neither Vedanta nor any of its subsidiary 
companies may, under any circumstances, make donations or 

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014contributions to political organisations within the United Kingdom or 
European Union. In exceptional circumstances, where such political 
donations or contributions are to be paid in the United Kingdom and 
European Union, and if deemed necessary for legitimate business 
reasons, they will not be made without the approval of the Board and 
shareholders at the general meeting.

through a global depository receipt and carry no voting rights. Apart 
from the above, each ordinary share carries the right to one vote at 
general meetings of the Company. Holders of deferred shares are not 
entitled to attend, speak or vote at any general meeting of the 
Company, nor are they entitled to the payment of any dividend or to 
receive notice of general meetings.

However in accordance with the normal accepted practice in India of 
making political donations in respect of elections, the Group made 
political donations of US$3.7 million (2013: US$0.97 million) either 
through a trust or directly in respect of the Indian general election. 
The Board believes that supporting the political process in India will 
encourage and strengthen the democratic process.

Research and development
The Group’s business units carry out research and development 
activities necessary to further their operations.

Material shareholdings
As at 31 March 2014 and 11 June 2014, the Company had been 
notified under the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, of the following 
significant voting rights in its shares:

Name of holder

Volcan Investments Ltd
Standard Life Investments Ltd

Number of 
ordinary shares 
of US$0.10 
each

Percentage of 
total voting
rights1

185,856,132
21,040,913

69.60%
7.87%

1  The voting rights at 31 March 2014 were 267,070,324 ordinary shares (net of treasury 

shares and shares held in Global Depositary Receipt). 

Articles of Association, share capital and voting rights
The following description summarises certain provisions in the 
Company’s Articles of Association and applicable English law 
concerning companies (the Companies Act 2006, the ‘Act’). This is a 
summary only and the relevant provisions of the Act or the Articles 
should be consulted if further information is required. Copies of the 
Company’s current Articles are available for inspection at the 
Company’s registered office.

Amendments to the Articles of Association
The Company’s Articles of Association may be amended only by 
special resolution passed by the Company’s shareholders.

Share capital
As at 31 March 2014 the issued share capital of the Company was 
comprised of 298,182,135 ordinary shares of US$0.10 each and 
50,000 deferred shares of £1 each.

Rights and obligations attaching to shares
The rights and obligations attaching to the ordinary and deferred shares 
are set out in the Articles. Details of the authorised and issued share 
capital together with movements in the Company’s issued share capital 
during the year are shown in Note 34 of the financial statements.

6,904,995 ordinary shares of US$0.10 each were issued on the 
conversion of certain convertible bonds issued by one of the 
Company’s subsidiaries. These 6,904,995 ordinary shares are held 

Further details of the rights attaching to the deferred shares are set 
out in the Articles and summarised in Note 34 of the financial 
statements.

Variation of rights
Subject to the provisions of the Act, the rights attached to any class 
may be varied with the consent of the holders of three-quarters in 
nominal value of the issued shares of the class or with the sanction of 
an extraordinary resolution passed at a separate general meeting of 
the holders of the shares of the class.

Deadlines for exercising voting rights
Votes may be exercised at general meetings in relation to the business 
being transacted either in person, by proxy or, in relation to corporate 
members, by corporate representative. The Articles provide that forms 
of proxy shall be submitted not less than 48 hours before the time 
appointed for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting.

Restrictions on voting and the transfer of shares
No member shall be entitled to vote at a general meeting or at a 
separate meeting of the holders of any class of shares in the capital of 
the Company, either in person or by proxy, in respect of any share held 
by him unless all monies payable by him in respect of that share have 
been fully paid. Furthermore, no shareholder shall be entitled to 
attend or vote either personally or by proxy at a general meeting or at 
a separate meeting of the holders of that class of shares or on a poll if 
he has been served with a notice after failing to provide the Company 
with information concerning interests in his shares that is required to 
be provided under the Act.

Issue of shares
Under the Articles, the Company has authority to allot new shares in 
the Company. Such authority would be exercised having regard to the 
Statement of Principles published by the Pre-emption Group.

Shares held in uncertificated form
Subject to the provisions of the Uncertificated Securities Regulations 
2001, the Board may permit the holding of shares in any class of 
shares in uncertificated form and the transfer of title to shares in that 
class by means of a relevant system and may determine that any 
class of shares shall cease to be a participating security.

Dividends and distributions
Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may by ordinary 
resolution declare dividends in accordance with the respective rights 
of the members, but no dividend shall exceed the amount 
recommended by the Board. The Board may pay interim dividends if 
it appears to the Board that they are justified by the profits of the 
Company available for distribution. The treasury shares directly held 
by the Company are not entitled to receive a dividend.

117

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014The Directors’ report continued

Dividends may be declared and paid in any currency or currencies 
that the Board shall determine. The Board may also determine the 
exchange rate and the relevant date for determining the value of the 
dividend in any currency.

Purchase of the Company’s own shares
At the end of the year, the Directors had authority, under a 
shareholders’ resolution dated 1 August 2013, to make market 
purchases of up to approximately 10% of the Company’s ordinary 
shares.

The authority expires at the conclusion of the Company’s 2014 
Annual General Meeting or on 1 October 2014, whichever is the 
earlier. A resolution to obtain a further authority will be proposed at 
the 2014 Annual General Meeting.

During the year the Company did not purchase any shares under its 
previously announced share buyback programme.

As at 31 March 2014, the Company held a total of 24,206,816 
ordinary shares in treasury equal to 8.12% (FY2013: 8.13%) of the 
issued share capital.

Agreements: Change of control
There are a number of agreements that take effect, alter or terminate 
upon a change of control of the Company such as commercial 
contracts, bank loan agreements, and capital market borrowing. The 
following are considered to be significant in terms of their likely impact 
on the business of the Group as a whole:
1  The US$1.25 billion 5.50% guaranteed convertible bonds issued in 
July 2009 and the US$883 million 4.0% guaranteed convertible 
bonds (current outstanding US$73 million) issued in March 2010, 
where a change of control gives investors the option to require the 
issuer to redeem their bonds at the principal amount, together with 
any accrued and unpaid interest, or convert their bonds at an 
adjusted exchange price for a certain period following the relevant 
event. 

2  The US$750 million 6.75% bonds due in 2016, US$750 million 

9.5% bonds due 2018, US$1,200 million 6% bonds due in 2019, 
US$900 million 8.25% bonds due in 2021, US$500 million 7.125% 
bonds due in 2023 where a change of control requires the 
Company to make an offer to purchase all of the outstanding 
bonds at 101% of the principal amount together with any accrued 
and unpaid interest with a rating decline. 

3  In the financing arrangements for the acquisition of Cairn India 
Limited and various other financing facilities entered into by the 
Group where a change of control gives the majority lenders the 
right to declare the loans immediately payable.

All of the Company’s share plans contain provisions relating to a 
change of control. Outstanding awards and options would normally 
vest and become exercisable on a change of control, subject to the 
satisfaction of any performance conditions.

There is no contract between the Company and its Directors or 
employees that provide for compensation for loss of office or 
employment that occurs because of a takeover bid.

118

Disclosure of information to auditors
In accordance with section 418 of the Companies Act 2006, each 
Director who held office at the date of approval of this Directors’ 
Report confirms that:
•  so far as they are aware, there is no relevant audit information of 

which the Company’s auditor is unaware; and 

•  he has taken all the steps that he ought to have taken as a Director 
to make himself aware of any relevant audit information and to 
establish that the Company’s auditor is aware of that information. 

Reappointment of auditors
A resolution to reappoint the auditor, Deloitte LLP, will be proposed at 
the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. The reappointment of 
Deloitte LLP has been approved by the Audit Committee, which will 
also be responsible for determining the auditors’ remuneration on 
behalf of the Board, subject to the approval of shareholders at the 
forthcoming Annual General Meeting.

Policy on derivatives and financial instruments
An explanation of the Group’s financial management objectives and 
policies together with details of the Group’s exposure to price risk, 
credit risk, liquidity risk and foreign currency risk appears in Note 28  
to the financial statements.

Going concern
The Group has a strong Balance Sheet that gives sufficient headroom 
to raise further debt should the need arise. The Group’s current ratings 
from Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch are BB, Ba1 and BB+ 
respectively, with Negative outlook from Standard and poor’s and 
Stable outlook from both Moody’s and Fitch. These ratings support 
the necessary financial leverage and access to debt or equity markets 
at competitive terms, taking into consideration current market 
conditions. The Group generally maintains a healthy liquidity, gearing 
ratio and retains flexibility in the financing structure to alter the ratio 
when the need arises. As a consequence, the Directors believe that 
the Group is well placed to manage its financing risks.

After making enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable expectation 
that the Company and the Group have adequate resources to 
continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. 
Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in 
preparing the Annual Report and Accounts.

Annual General Meeting
The eleventh Annual General Meeting of the Company will be held on 
1 August 2014 at 3pm. The Notice convening the Annual General 
Meeting accompanies this Annual Report and sets out details of the 
business to be considered thereof.

Signed on behalf of the Board

Deepak Kumar
Company Secretary
14 May 2014

Vedanta Resources plc
2nd Floor, Vintners Place
68 Upper Thames Street
London EC4V 3BJ
Registered in England Number 4740415

Directors’ ReportVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Directors’ responsibilities statement

Responsibility statement 
We confirm that to the best of our knowledge:
•  the financial statements, prepared in accordance with the relevant 

financial reporting framework, give a true and fair view of the 
assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the 
Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken 
as a whole;

•  the strategic report includes a fair review of the development and 

performance of the business and the position of the Company and 
the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, 
together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties 
that they face; and

•  the annual report and financial statements, taken as a whole, are 
fair, balanced and understandable and provide the information 
necessary for shareholders to assess the Company’s performance, 
business model and strategy.

By order of the Board 

Tom Albanese
Chief Executive Officer
14 May 2014

D D Jalan
Chief Financial Officer
14 May 2014

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report  
and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law  
and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements 
for each financial year. Under that law the Directors are required to 
prepare the Group financial statements in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRSs’) as adopted by 
the European Union and Article 4 of the IAS Regulation and have 
elected to prepare the parent Company financial statements in 
accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting 
Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). 
Under company law the Directors must not approve the accounts 
unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state 
of affairs of the Company and of the profit or loss of the Company for 
that period. 

In preparing the parent Company financial statements, the Directors 
are required to:
•  select suitable accounting policies and then apply them 

consistently;

•  make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable 

and prudent;

•  state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been 
followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and 
explained in the financial statements; and

•  prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless 
it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue in 
business.

In preparing the Group financial statements, International 
Accounting Standard 1 requires that Directors:
•  properly select and apply accounting policies;
•  present information, including accounting policies, in a manner that 

provides relevant, reliable, comparable and understandable 
information; 

•  provide additional disclosures when compliance with the specific 

requirements in IFRSs are insufficient to enable users to understand 
the impact of particular transactions, other events and conditions 
on the entity’s financial position and financial performance; and
•  make an assessment of the Company’s ability to continue as a 

going concern.

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting 
records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company’s 
transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the 
financial position of the Company and enable them to ensure that 
the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They 
are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and 
hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of 
fraud and other irregularities.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the 
corporate and financial information included on the Company’s 
website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation 
and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation 
in other jurisdictions.

119

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Independent Auditor’s Report 

To the Members of Vedanta Resources plc

Opinion on financial statements of Vedanta Resources plc 
In our opinion:
•  the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the 
Group’s and of the parent company’s affairs as at 31 March 2014 
and of the Group’s profit for the year then ended;

•  the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in 
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards 
(IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union;

•  the parent company financial statements have been properly 

prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted 
Accounting Practice; and

•  the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 
the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the 
Group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

The financial statements comprise the Consolidated Income 
Statement, the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, 
the Consolidated and Parent Company Balance Sheets, the 
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement, the Consolidated Statement of 
Changes in Equity, and the related notes 1 to 58. The financial 
reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the 
Group financial statements is applicable law and IFRSs as adopted by 
the European Union. The financial reporting framework that has been 
applied in the preparation of the parent company financial 
statements is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting 
Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Going concern
As required by the Listing Rules we have reviewed the directors’ 
statement contained within the Strategic Report that the Group is a 
going concern. We confirm that:
•  we have concluded that the directors’ use of the going concern 

basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is 
appropriate; and

•  we have not identified any material uncertainties that may cast 
significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as a going 
concern.

However, because not all future events or conditions can be predicted, 
this statement is not a guarantee as to the Group’s ability to continue 
as a going concern.

Our assessment of risks of material misstatement
The assessed risks of material misstatement described below are 
those that had the greatest effect on our audit strategy, the 
allocation of resources in the audit and directing the efforts of the 
engagement team:

Risk 
Impairments
There is a risk associated with the assessment of the recoverable 
amount of certain operating assets and development projects, 
specifically the Lanjigarh expansionary program within the Aluminium 
business unit which remains on hold pending environmental 
clearances being obtained and the operations in Goa and Karnataka 
within the Iron Ore business unit subject during the year to state-wide 
bans on iron ore mining. 

For more information see note 2b in the financial statements that 
provide further details and disclosures to this matter.

How the scope of our audit responded to the risk 
We have:
•  reviewed management’s assessment as to whether indicators of 
impairment exist for operating assets and development projects, 
specifically, in relation to the Lanjigarh expansionary project and 
the iron ore operations in Goa and Karnataka;

•  obtained and assessed the valuation models used to determine the 
value in use or fair value less costs to sell of the relevant asset by 
challenging the key assumptions made by management in relation 
to these models, including the expected timings of approvals and 
renewal of licences, commodity prices, discount rate applied, source 
of reserve and production estimates, potential resources to reserves 
conversion ratios, exchange rates, and operating and capital 
expenditure estimates, by reference to independent third party 
evidence and consultation with operational management. 

•  assessed whether assumptions had been determined and applied 

on a consistent basis across the Group; and

•  assessed the procedures performed by management during the 

year to progress the approval of environmental clearances.

Revenue recognition
IAS 18 Revenue and the Group’s revenue recognition policy permits 
revenue to be recognised only when the risks and rewards of 
ownership have transferred from the seller to the buyer. 

The risk is related to:
•  inappropriate recognition of sales made on a bill and hold or 

consignment basis; 

•  incorrect valuation of provisionally priced sales (where the pricing is 
only finalised based on market prices subsequent to the balance 
sheet date);

•  the value of regulated sales made to the Grid Corporation of 
Odisha Limited (“Gridco”) where a dispute regarding the 
interpretation of the tariff agreement is pending appelate tribunal 
resolution; and 

•  the calculation of Cairn’s oil and gas sales on an entitlement basis.

We have reviewed the application of the Group’s revenue recognition 
policy and:
•  reviewed the terms of bill and hold agreements to conclude on the 

point at which risk and reward transfer takes place;

•  recalculated the value of provisional pricing adjustments and 

validating the assumptions used to third party data where possible;

•  challenged management in respect of whether the Gridco trade 

receivables are recoverable through the review of state regulatory 
commission and the appellate tribunal rulings, review of the 
underlying power purchase agreements and the external legal 
opinions received and the involvement of Deloitte power specialists 
to re-assess the tariff calculations; and

•  reviewed the terms of Cairn’s profit sharing agreement and tested 

the underlying entitlement calculations.

Litigation, environmental and regulatory risk
Given the significant number of legal claims a risk exists that the 
Group may not have adequately provided for liabilities. There is also a 
risk of the Group’s reputation being brought into disrepute resulting in 
financial and reputational damage. The Group continues to be 
involved in a high number of legal claims. As it is not unusual for 
claims to remain outstanding for a number of years, there has been a 
resultant steady increase in the number of cases over time with the 
regulatory environment becoming increasingly complex and 
regulators focusing on the environmental and social impacts. These 
ongoing claims, environmental and regulatory enquiries are a threat 
to the future operations as well as the Group’s current financial 
performance and reputation.

120

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014For more information see notes 37 and 41 in the financial statements 
that provide further details and disclosures to this matter.

We have: 
•  challenged management regarding their assessment of the 

probability of success in these cases, and the magnitude of any 
potential loss;

•  focused our procedures on the terms and conditions of mining 
licenses and performed procedures to gain assurance over the 
compliance and validity of all mining licences and environmental 
clearances; and 

•  inspected external legal opinions and other evidence that supports 

factual information in management’s responses. 

We have considered the impact of these procedures on the financial 
statements and whether the disclosures therein are in accordance 
with IAS 37 Provisions, contingent liabilities and contingent assets.

Taxation
There is a risk the Group’s aggregated taxation exposure in all 
jurisdictions, including the exposure to withholding taxes following 
past acquisitions, financing and transfer pricing arrangements, sales 
taxes and recognition of deferred taxation assets and liabilities, may 
not have been adequately valued and disclosed in the financial 
statements due to the complexities, timescales for resolution and the 
need to negotiate with various tax authorities.

For more information see notes 12, 30 and 37 in the financial 
statements that provide further details and disclosures to this matter.

We determined materiality for the Group to be US$75 million, which is 
approximately 5% of normalised pre-tax profit and below 1% of 
equity. Pre-tax profit has been normalised by adjusting for specific 
one-off items: an estimated pre-tax profit for the suspended 
operations impacted by the mining bans in Goa and Karnataka and 
the interest expense associated with the expansionary programs on 
hold which would ordinarily be capitalised. Normalised pre-tax profit is 
considered a more appropriate and less volatile measure reflecting 
the underlying scale of the Group.

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to the 
Committee all audit differences in excess of US$1.5 million, as well as 
differences below that threshold which, in our view, warranted 
reporting on qualitative grounds. We also report to the Audit 
Committee on disclosure matters that we identified when assessing 
the overall presentation of the financial statements. 

An overview of the scope of our audit

Total revenue (%)

2

1  Full scope 
92%
2  Specific procedures  8%

We reviewed all potential taxation exposures within the Group and, 
through discussions with the Group’s taxation department, the tax 
specialists within the audit team and review of relevant 
documentation, including external legal advice, we evaluated the 
appropriateness of the provisions raised and contingent liability 
disclosures. 

1

Net assets (%)
2

We considered, in the context of our tax specialists’ prior experience 
of similar issues, the Group‘s exposure to withholding taxes following 
past acquisitions, the current tax exposure following the Group’s 
internal restructuring, transfer pricing arrangements and deferred 
taxation assets and liabilities recognised to assess whether these 
matters were appropriately reflected and disclosed in the financial 
statements.

The Audit Committee’s consideration of these risks is set out on pages 
93 to 97.

Our audit procedures relating to these matters were designed in the 
context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and not to 
express an opinion on individual accounts or disclosures. Our opinion 
on the financial statements is not modified with respect to any of the 
risks described above, and we do not express an opinion on these 
individual matters.

Our application of materiality
We define materiality as the magnitude of misstatement in the 
financial statements that makes it probable that the economic 
decisions of a reasonably knowledgeable person would be changed or 
influenced. We use materiality both in planning the scope of our audit 
work and in evaluating the results of our work.

Total PBT (%)

1

2

1

1  Full scope 
2  Specific procedures  1%

99%

1  Full scope 
2  Specific procedures  0%

100%

121

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Independent Auditor’s Report continued 

To the Members of Vedanta Resources plc

Our group audit was scoped by obtaining an understanding of the 
Group and its environment, including group-wide controls, and 
assessing the risks of material misstatement at the group level. Based 
on that assessment, we focused our group audit scope primarily on 
the audit work at 15 locations. Eleven of these were subject to a full 
audit, whilst the remaining four were subject to an audit of specified 
account balances where the extent of our testing was based on our 
assessment of the risks of material misstatement and of the 
materiality of the Group’s operations at those locations. These 15 
locations represent the principal business units and account for 100% 
of the Group’s net assets, revenue and profit before tax offset on 
consolidation by losses elsewhere in the Group. They were also 
selected to provide an appropriate basis for undertaking audit work to 
address the risks of material misstatement identified above. Our audit 
work at the 15 locations was executed at levels of materiality 
applicable to each individual entity which were lower than Group 
materiality. 

At the parent entity level we also tested the consolidation process and 
carried out analytical procedures to confirm our conclusion that there 
were no significant risks of material misstatement of the aggregated 
financial information not subject to audit or audit of specified account 
balances.

Directors’ remuneration
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are also required to report if in our 
opinion certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration have not been 
made or the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited 
is not in agreement with the accounting records and returns. We have 
nothing to report arising from these matters.

Corporate Governance Statement
Under the Listing Rules we are also required to review the part of the 
Corporate Governance Statement relating to the company’s 
compliance with nine provisions of the UK Corporate Governance 
Code. We have nothing to report arising from our review.

Our duty to read other information in the Annual Report
Under International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland), we are 
required to report to you if, in our opinion, information in the annual 
report is:
•  materially inconsistent with the information in the audited financial 

statements; or

•  apparently materially incorrect based on, or materially inconsistent 

with, our knowledge of the Group acquired in the course of 
performing our audit; or

•  otherwise misleading.

The Group audit team continued to follow a programme of planned 
visits that has been designed so that the Senior Statutory Auditor or a 
senior member of the Group audit team visits each of the locations 
where the group audit scope was focused at least once every five 
years. At each six month reporting date we include the component 
audit partners and teams in our team briefing, discuss their risk 
assessment, and review documentation of the findings from their 
work.

In particular, we are required to consider whether we have identified 
any inconsistencies between our knowledge acquired during the audit 
and the directors’ statement that they consider the annual report is 
fair, balanced and understandable and whether the annual report 
appropriately discloses those matters that we communicated to the 
audit committee which we consider should have been disclosed. We 
confirm that we have not identified any such inconsistencies or 
misleading statements.

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 
2006
In our opinion:
•  the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has 
been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 
2006; and

•  the information given in the Strategic Report and the Directors’ 

Report for the financial year for which the financial statements are 
prepared is consistent with the financial statements.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception
Adequacy of explanations received and accounting records
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in 
our opinion:
•  we have not received all the information and explanations we 

require for our audit; or

•  adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent 

company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received 
from branches not visited by us; or

•  the parent company financial statements are not in agreement 

with the accounting records and returns.

We have nothing to report in respect of these matters.

Respective responsibilities of directors and auditor
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities Statement, 
the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial 
statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. 
Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the financial 
statements in accordance with applicable law and International 
Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those standards require us to 
comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s Ethical Standards for 
Auditors. We also comply with International Standard on Quality 
Control 1 (UK and Ireland). Our audit methodology and tools aim to 
ensure that our quality control procedures are effective, understood 
and applied. Our quality controls and systems include our dedicated 
professional standards review team, strategically focused second 
partner reviews and independent partner reviews.

This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, in 
accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. 
Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the 
company’s members those matters we are required to state to them 
in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent 
permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to 
anyone other than the company and the company’s members as a 
body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have 
formed.

122

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Scope of the audit of the financial statements
An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements sufficient to give reasonable 
assurance that the financial statements are free from material 
misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. This includes an 
assessment of: whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the 
Group’s and the parent company’s circumstances and have been 
consistently applied and adequately disclosed; the reasonableness of 
significant accounting estimates made by the directors; and the 
overall presentation of the financial statements. In addition, we read 
all the financial and non-financial information in the annual report to 
identify material inconsistencies with the audited financial statements 
and to identify any information that is apparently materially incorrect 
based on, or materially inconsistent with, the knowledge acquired by 
us in the course of performing the audit. If we become aware of any 
apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies we consider the 
implications for our report.

Andrew Kelly (Senior statutory auditor)
for and on behalf of Deloitte LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor
London, United Kingdom
14 May 2014

123

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Consolidated Income Statement

(US$ million except as stated) 

Revenue
Cost of sales

Gross profit
Other operating income
Distribution costs
Administrative expenses
Special items

Operating profit
Investment revenue
Finance costs
Other gains and losses (net)

Profit before taxation
Net tax expense

Profit for the year

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests

Earnings per share (US cents)
Basic (loss)/earnings per ordinary share
Diluted (loss)/earnings per ordinary share

Note

4

 Year ended 
31 March 
2014 

 Year ended 
31 March 
20131 

12,945.0
(10,043.2) (11,334.9) 

14,640.2

5

9
6
7
8

12

2,901.8
84.0
(237.6)
(460.1)
(138.0)

2,150.1
687.7
(1,355.7)
(364.0)

1,118.1
(128.7)

3,305.3
90.3
(295.0)
(528.9)
(41.9)

2,529.8
669.0
(1,189.9)
(285.2)

1,723.7
(46.1)

989.4

1,677.6

(196.0)
1,185.4

162.0
1,515.6

989.4

1,677.6

13
13

(71.7)
(71.7)

59.4
58.3

1  The comparative information has been restated so as to reflect the adoption of new accounting pronouncements, details of which have been set out in Note 40.

124

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Consolidated Statement of 
Comprehensive Income

(US$ million) 

Profit for the year

Income and expenses recognised directly in equity:
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income statement:
Remeasurement of net defined benefit plans
Tax effects on items recognised directly in equity

Total (a)

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to income statement:
Exchange differences arising on translation of foreign operations
Change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets
Change in fair value of cash flow hedges deferred in reserves 
Tax effects arising on cash flow hedges deferred in reserves
Gain on available-for-sale financial asset transferred to income statement
Change in fair value of cash flow hedges transferred to income statement
Tax effects arising on cash flow hedges transferred to income statement

Total (b)

Other comprehensive expense for the year (a+b)

Total comprehensive (expense)/income for the year

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests

1  The comparative information has been restated so as to reflect the adoption of new accounting pronouncements, details of which have been set out in Note 40.

 Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended1 
31 March 
2013

989.4

1,677.6

(4.2)
1.5

(2.7)

(1,239.6)
(0.1)
(47.1)
(3.7)
–
(0.9)
0.3

(6.3)
2.1

(4.2)

(707.9)
(1.3)
(60.5)
(1.4)
(70.5)
94.8
(5.3)

(1,291.1)

(752.1)

(1,293.8)

(756.3)

(304.4)

921.3

(773.8)
469.4

(121.4)
1,042.7

125

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Consolidated Balance Sheet

(US$ million) 

Assets
Non-current assets
Goodwill
Intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Financial asset investments
Other non-current assets
Financial instruments (derivatives)
Deferred tax assets

Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Financial asset investments
Financial instruments (derivatives)
Current tax assets
Liquid investments
Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Liabilities
Current liabilities
Short-term borrowings
Convertible bonds
Trade and other payables
Financial instruments (derivatives)
Retirement benefits
Provisions
Current tax liabilities

Net current assets

Non-current liabilities
Medium and long-term borrowings
Convertible bonds
Trade and other payables
Financial instruments (derivatives)
Deferred tax liabilities
Retirement benefits
Provisions
Non-equity non-controlling interests

Total liabilities

Net assets

126

As at year 
ended  
31 March  
2014 

As at year 
ended  
31 March 
20131 

Note

15
16
17
18
19
28
30

20
21
18
28

22
23

16.6
108.6
31,043.5
1.7
132.1
16.2
1,223.7

16.6
–
33,132.6
2.4
113.4
–
847.1

32,542.4 34,112.1

1,742.5
1,739.9
–
54.0
357.6
8,568.5
369.4

1,965.6
1,706.0
18.2
31.1
147.0
5,781.5
2,200.2

12,831.9 11,849.6

45,374.3 45,961.7

24
27
 26a
28
32
29

(2,437.0)
(1,921.5)
(4,690.0)
(118.7)
(4.8)
(88.7)
(29.3)

(3,705.7)
(694.4)
(4,563.7)
(44.5)
(8.3)
 (68.4)
(125.3)

(9,290.0)

(9,210.3)

3,541.9

2,639.3

24 (12,512.7) (10,452.6)
(1,740.1)
–
27
(232.2)
(203.3)
26b
(28.0)
(27.4)
28
(4,996.6)
(4,960.1)
30
(58.4)
(58.1)
32
(362.6)
(336.0)
29
(11.9)
(11.9)
35

(18,109.5) (17,882.4)

(27,399.5) (27,092.7)

17,974.8 18,869.0

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
 
 
(US$ million) 

Equity
Share capital
Share premium 
Treasury shares
Share-based payment reserve
Convertible bond reserve
Hedging reserve
Other reserves
Retained earnings

Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests

Total equity

Note

34

31

As at year 
ended  
31 March  
2014 

As at year 
ended  
31 March 
20131 

29.8
198.5
(556.9)
46.9
80.1
(50.4)
471.6
3,790.8

29.8
196.8
(556.9)
29.0
302.9
(22.2)
789.3
3,632.6

4,010.4
13,964.4

4,401.3
14,467.7

17,974.8 18,869.0

1  The comparative information has been restated so as to reflect the adoption of new accounting pronouncements, details of which have been set out in Note 40.

Financial Statements of Vedanta Resources plc, registration number 4740415 were approved by the Board of Directors on 14 May 2014 and 
signed on behalf by 

Tom Albanese
Chief Executive Officer

127

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

(US$ million)

Operating activities
Profit before taxation
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and amortisation
Investment revenue
Finance costs 
Other gains and losses (net)
Loss/(profit) on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Write-off of unsuccessful exploration costs
Share-based payment charge
Impairment of mining reserves and assets
Other non-cash items

Operating cash flows before movements in working capital 
Decrease/(increase) in inventories
(Increase)/decrease in receivables
Increase in payables

Cash generated from operations 
Dividends received
Interest income received
Interest paid
Income taxes paid
Dividends paid

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities
Purchases of property, plant and equipment and intangibles
Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Purchase of liquid investments
Sale of financial asset investments

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities
Issue of ordinary shares 
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests of subsidiaries
Acquisition of additional interests in subsidiary
(Decrease)/increase in short-term borrowings
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
Repayment of long-term borrowings

Net cash used in financing activities 

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

 Year ended 
31 March 
2014 

 Year ended 
31 March 
20131

Note

1,118.1

1,723.7

2,203.1
(687.7)
1,355.7
364.0
4.4
10.8
32.9
81.6
48.3

4,531.2
75.0
(123.4)
678.8

5,161.6
1.0
337.8
(1,115.3)
(861.6)
(162.5)

2,337.2
(669.0)
1,189.9
285.2
(11.6)
51.8
25.5
–
(0.1)

4,932.6
(347.0)
29.8
323.9

4,939.3
91.4
362.7
(1,150.9)
(897.4)
(153.5)

3,361.0

3,191.6

(2,185.3)
9.3
(2,857.0)
18.2

(2,221.2)
63.4
(941.7)
158.1

(5,014.8)

(2,941.4)

0.0
(345.9)
–
(2,832.7)
5,429.7
(2,299.0)

0.1
(257.4)
(33.5)
159.9
2,307.9
(2,352.4)

(47.9)

(175.4)

(1,701.7)
(129.1)
2,200.2

74.8
180.4
1,945.0

369.4

2,200.2

25

25
25
25

25
25

23

1  The comparative information has been restated so as to reflect the adoption of new accounting pronouncements, details of which have been set out in Note 40.

128

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Consolidated Statement of Changes 
in Equity

Attributable to equity holders of the Company

(US$ million)

At 1 April 2012
Profit for the year
Other comprehensive 
income for the year

Total comprehensive 
income for the year

Convertible bond 

transfers (Note 27)

Transfers2
Dividends paid 
Exercise of LTIP/STIP 

awards 

Additional investment in 

assets3

Recognition of share-
based payment 
(Note 31)

Share 
premium

Treasury 
shares

Share-
based 
payment 
reserves

Convertible 
bond 
reserve

196.8
–

(556.9)
–

39.8
–

382.0
–

Share 
capital

29.7
–

Hedging 
reserve

Other 
reserves*1

Retained
earnings*

Total

Non–
controlling
interests*

Total  
equity

(55.6) 1,008.5 3,606.3 4,650.6 13,768.9 18,419.5
1,677.6

1,515.6

162.0

162.0

–

–

–

–
–
–

0.1

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

(36.3)

–

25.5

29.0

–

33.4

(316.8)

–

(283.4)

(472.9)

(756.3)

33.4

(316.8)

162.0

(121.4)

1,042.7

921.3

(79.1)
–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–
97.6
–

79.1
(97.6)
(153.5)

–
–
(153.5)

–
–
(257.4)

–
–
(410.9)

–

–

–

36.3

–

–

0.1

–

–

0.1

(86.5)

(86.5)

25.5

–

25.5

302.9

(22.2)

789.3 3,632.6 4,401.3 14,467.7 18,869.0

At 31 March 2013

29.8

196.8

(556.9)

(US$ million)

At 1 April 2013
Profit for the year
Other comprehensive 
income for the year

Total comprehensive 
income for the year

Convertible bond 

transfers (Note 27)

Repayment of convertible 

bond

Conversion of convertible 

bond
Transfers2
Dividends paid 
Change in non-controlling 
interests due to merger 
(Note 35)

Exercise of LTIP/STIP 

awards 

Recognition of share-
based payment 
(Note 31)

Share 
capital

29.8
–

–

–

–

0.0
–
–

–

0.0

–

Attributable to equity holders of the Company

Share 
premium

Treasury 
shares

Share-
based 
payment 
reserves

Convertible 
bond 
reserve

Hedging 
reserve

Other 
reserves1

Retained 
earnings

Total

Non–
controlling 
interests

Total  
equity

196.8
–

(556.9)
–

29.0
–

302.9
–

(22.2)
–

789.3 3,632.6 4,401.3 14,467.7 18,869.0
989.4

1,185.4

(196.0)

(196.0)

–

–

–

–

1.7
–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

(15.0)

32.9

46.9

–

(28.2)

(549.6)

–

(577.8)

(716.0)

(1,293.8)

(28.2)

(549.6)

(196.0)

(773.8)

469.4

(304.4)

(110.7)

(111.6)

(0.5)
–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–

–

110.7

–

(3.9)

(115.5)

–

–

–
231.9
–

–
(231.9)
(162.5)

1.2
–
(162.5)

–
(345.9)

–

–

–

626.8

626.8

(626.8)

15.0

0.0

–

32.9

–

–

–

(115.5)

1.2
–
(508.4)

–

0.0

32.9

80.1

(50.4)

471.6 3,790.8 4,010.4 13,964.4 17,974.8

At 31 March 2014

29.8

198.5

(556.9)

*  The comparative information has been restated so as to reflect the adoption of new accounting pronouncements, details of which have been set out in Note 40.

129

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Consolidated Statement of Changes 
in Equity continued

1 OTHER RESERVES COMPRISE 

(US$ million)

At 1 April 2012
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations
Revaluation of available-for-sale investments
Disposal of available-for-sale investments
Remeasurements
Transfer from retained earnings2

At 31 March 2013

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations
Remeasurements
Transfer from retained earnings2

Currency 
translation 
reserve

(791.4)
(272.8)
–
–
–
–

(1,064.2)

(548.5)
–
–

Merger 
reserve4

Investment 
revaluation 
reserve

General 
reserves

1,752.0
–
–
–
(1.7)
97.6

43.5
–
(0.7)
(41.6)
–
–

1.2

1,847.9

–
–
–

–
(1.1)
231.9

Total

 1,008.5
(272.8)
(0.7)
(41.6)
(1.7)
97.6

789.3

(548.5)
(1.1)
231.9

4.4
–
–
–
–
–

4.4

–
–
–

At 31 March 2014

(1,612.7)

4.4

1.2

2,078.7

471.6

2  Under Indian law, a general reserve is created through an annual transfer of net income to general reserves at a specified percentage in accordance with applicable regulations. The purpose of 
these transfers is to ensure that the total dividend distribution is less than the total distributable results for that year. Transfer to General reserves also includes US$2.5 million of debenture 
redemption reserve and remeasurement reserve related to net defined benefit liability of US$1.1 million.

3  In December 2012, the Group acquired remaining 49% stake in Western Cluster Limited (‘WCL’) at a consideration of US$33.5 million. This resulted in increase in Group’s stake in WCL from 51% 
to 100%. The increase has been accounted in the financial statements as an equity transaction. The carrying amount of the non-controlling interest has been adjusted to reflect the change in 
Group’s interest in the Net assets of WCL.

4  The merger reserve arose on incorporation of the Company during the year ended 31 March 2004. The investment in Twin Star had a carrying amount value of US$20.0 million in the accounts 
of Volcan. As required by the Companies act 1985, Section 132, upon issue of 156,000,000 ordinary shares to Volcan, Twin Star’s issued share capital and share premium account have been 
eliminated and a merger reserve of US$4.4 million arose, being the difference between the carrying value of the investment in Twin Star in Volcan’s accounts and the nominal value of the 
shares issued to Volcan.

130

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

1. Presentation of financial statements
General information
Vedanta Resources plc is a company incorporated in the United Kingdom and is a London listed diversified global natural resources major. The 
Group produces aluminium, copper, zinc, lead, silver, iron ore, oil & gas and commercial energy. Vedanta has operations in India, Zambia, 
Namibia, South Africa, Ireland, Liberia, Australia and Sri Lanka. These financial statements are presented in US dollars, which is the functional 
currency of the Company.

Compliance with applicable law and IFRS 
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting 
under International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’), Article 4 of the IAS Regulation and IFRS as adopted by the European Union and 
related interpretations.

Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for derivative financial instruments, available-for-sale financial 
assets, fixed rate bonds and defined benefit pension obligations that have been measured at fair value. The financial statements are presented 
in US dollars and all values are rounded to one decimal of the nearest million except where otherwise indicated.

At the date of authorisation of these financial statements, the following standards and interpretations which have not been applied in these 
financial statements were in issue but not yet effective:
IAS 32 (amended) – Offsetting Financial Assets and Liabilities 
IAS 36 (amended) – Disclosure of non-financial assets impairment
IAS 39 (amended) – Novation of Derivatives and Continuation of Hedge Accounting
Amendments to IAS 36 (May 2013) Recoverable amount disclosures for non-financial assets
Amendments to IFRS 10, IFRS 12 and IAS 27 (Oct 2012) Investment entities
Annual Improvements to IFRSs: 2009–2011 Cycle (May 2012)
Amendments to IFRS 1 (March 2012) Government loans
IAS 28 (revised May 2011) Investment in associates and joint ventures
Amendments to IAS 12 (Dec 2010) Deferred tax: Recovery of underlying assets

The Directors anticipated that the adoption of these standards and interpretation in future periods will have no material impact on the financial 
statements of the Group.

Adoption of new and revised standards
Group has adopted with effect from 1 April 2013, the following new and revised standards and interpretations. Their adoption has not had any 
significant impact on the amounts reported in the financial statements. 

The following new accounting standards and amendments became effective in the current reporting period:
IAS 1: Presentation of items of other comprehensive income (Amended)
This amendment to IAS 1, requires entities to separate items presented in other comprehensive income that can be recycled in income 
statements at a future period separately from items that will not be recycled in future periods together with their tax effect. These amendments 
have been applied retrospectively and affected the presentation of items of comprehensive income and had no impact on the financial 
performance of the Group.

IAS 19: Employee benefits – (revised)
The revised IAS 19 standard on employee benefits has introduced amendments to the accounting for defined benefits plans. It requires all 
actuarial gains and losses arising on defined benefits plans to be recognised immediately in other comprehensive income and requires the 
expected return on plan assets which is recognised in the income statement to be calculated based on the rate used to discount the defined 
benefit obligation. This differs from the Group’s previous policy which was to charge any actuarial gain/losses in the income statement. Hence 
the Group has recognised all actuarial gains and losses arising on defined benefits plans to other comprehensive income. 

The Group has applied the standard retrospectively in accordance with the transitional provisions. As a result, the adoption of the amendment in 
IAS 19 has not materially impacted the financial statement. Impact on the Group financial statement is set out in Note 40.

IFRS 7: Disclosure – Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities
IFRS 7 requires additional disclosures in connection with assets and liabilities which are offset under a master netting agreement. The 
amendments to IFRS 7 have not impacted the Group’s financial statements.

IFRS 13: Fair value measurement
IFRS 13 provides for a framework for measuring fair value when such measurements are required or permitted by other standards. IFRS 13 also 
requires specific disclosures on fair values. These disclosures replace some of the existing disclosure requirements in other standards, including 
IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures. The application of IFRS 13 has not materially affected the fair value measurements carried out by the 
Group. The adoption of IFRS 13 resulted in additional disclosure in the financial statements. The impact and disclosures are set out in Note 28 to 
the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2014.

131

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

1. Presentation of financial statements continued
IFRIC 20: Stripping costs in the production phase of a surface mine
IFRIC 20 specifies the accounting for costs associated with waste removal (stripping) during the production phase of a surface mine. When the 
benefit from the stripping activity is realised in the current period, the stripping costs are accounted for as the cost of inventory. When the 
benefit is the improved access to ore in future periods, the costs are recognised as a non-current asset, if certain criteria are met. After initial 
recognition, the stripping activity asset is depreciated on a systematic basis (unit of production method) over the expected useful life of the 
identified component of the ore body that becomes more accessible as a result of the stripping activity.

As a result of adoption of IFRIC 20, the two key changes to the Group’s existing accounting policy is upon initial recognition of the stripping 
assets and its depreciation based on a unit of production basis compared to recognising it in the income statement. Accordingly, the application 
of IFRIC 20 has resulted in increased capitalisation of stripping costs and depreciation and consequential adjustment to cost of sales and 
inventories. Comparatives numbers have been restated to give the retrospective impact of adopting IFRIC 20. The impact is given in Note 40.

The Group has early adopted the following accounting standards and amendments which are endorsed by EU but is effective for the 
accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2014:
IFRS 10: Consolidated financial statements
IFRS 10 establishes the principal for the preparation and presentation of consolidated financial statements with a new definition of control. The 
investor controls an investee when it is exposed to, or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has ability to 
affect those returns through its power over the investee. This definition replaces the pervious guidance on control and consolidation under IAS 
27 (Separate Financial Statements) and SIC 12 (Consolidation-Special Purpose Entities). IFRS 10 does not have any impact on the financial 
statements of the Group.

IFRS 11: Joint arrangements
IFRS 11 (Joint Arrangements) replaced IAS 31 (Interest in Joint Ventures) and requires investments in joint arrangements classified as either joint 
ventures or joint operations based on the rights and obligations of the parties to the arrangement. Under IFRS 11, investments in joint 
arrangements are classified as either joint ventures or joint operations based on the rights and obligations of the parties to the arrangement. In 
a joint venture, the parties sharing joint control of the arrangement have rights to the net assets and must account for their interests in the 
arrangement using the equity method. In a joint operation, the parties have rights to the assets and obligations for the liabilities and must 
account for the assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses for which they have rights or obligations including their share of such items held or 
incurred jointly. The standard removes the option to account for joint ventures using proportionate consolidation and instead joint 
arrangements that meet the definition of a joint venture under IFRS 11 must be accounted for using the equity method. IFRS 11 does not have 
any impact on the financial statements of the Group.

IFRS 12: Disclosure of interest in other entities 
IFRS 12 applies to entities that have an interest in a subsidiary, a joint arrangement, an associate or unconsolidated structured entities. IFRS 12 
requires an entity to disclose information that enables users of financial statements to evaluate the nature and risk associated with the interest 
in other entities. These disclosures are set out within the relevant notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2014.

Going concern
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the going concern basis of accounting. The use of this basis of accounting 
takes into consideration the Group’s current and forecast financing position, additional details of which are provided in the Going Concern 
section of the Strategic Report. 

Parent Company financial statements
The financial statements of the parent Company, Vedanta Resources plc, incorporated in the United Kingdom, have been prepared in 
accordance with UK GAAP, UK accounting presentation and UK company law. The Company Balance Sheet is presented in Note 46.

2(a) Accounting policies
Basis of consolidation
Subsidiaries
The consolidated financial information incorporates the results of the Company and all its subsidiaries (the ‘Group’), being the companies that it 
controls. Control is evidenced where the Company 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 bring the accounting policies used into line with accounting policies used by the Group.

For non-wholly owned subsidiaries, a share of the profit for the financial year and net assets is attributed to the non-controlling interests as 
shown in the consolidated income statement, consolidated statement of comprehensive income and consolidated balance sheet. 

132

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY20142(a) Accounting policies continued
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 of 
during the year are included in the consolidated income statement from the effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, 
as appropriate. 

All intercompany balances and transactions, including unrealised profits arising from intra-Group transactions, have been eliminated in full. 
Unrealised 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.

The Group has joint operations within its oil & gas segment, the Group participates in several unincorporated joint operations which involve the 
joint control of assets used in oil & gas exploration and producing activities. The Group accounts for its share of assets, liabilities, income and 
expenditure of joint ventures in which the Group holds an interest, classified in the appropriate balance sheet and income statement headings. 
In addition, where the Group acts as operator to the joint venture, the gross liabilities and receivables (including amounts due to or from 
non-operating partners) of the joint operations are included in the Group balance sheet.

Restatement 
The Group has restated the financial performance and position for the year ended 31 March 2013 to give effect of the new accounting 
pronouncements that became applicable with effect from the accounting period beginning from 1 April 2013 (Note 40). 

Revenue recognition
Revenue represents the net invoice value of goods and services provided to third parties after deducting discounts, volume rebates, outgoing 
sales taxes and duties, and are recognised when all significant risks and rewards of ownership of the asset sold are transferred to the customer or 
services have been provided. 

Certain of the Group’s sales contracts provide for provisional pricing based on the price on the London Metal Exchange Limited (‘LME’), as 
specified in the contract, when shipped. Final settlement of the prices 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 with a 
corresponding adjustment to 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, and tariff income received for third party use of operating facilities and pipelines in accordance with agreements.
•  Revenue from holding certificate contracts is recognised when goods have been delivered to a distribution warehouse or has been identified 
and kept separately, have been inspected by a nominee of the buyer and cash has been received. Under these arrangements, revenue is 
recognised once legal title has passed and all significant risks and rewards of ownership of the asset sold are transferred to the customer.
•  Revenue from the sale of power is recognised when the electricity is delivered and measured based on contractually agreed tariff rates as 

approved by the electricity regulatory authorities.

•  Revenues from sale of material by-products are recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods sold are 

transferred to the customer.

•  Dividend income is recognised when the shareholders’ right to receive payment is established.
•  Interest income is recognised on an accrual basis in the income statement.

Special items
Special items are those items that management considers, by virtue of their size or incidence (including but not limited to voluntary retirement 
schemes 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. Such items are 
material by nature or amount to the year’s result and require separate disclosure in accordance with IAS 1 paragraph 97. The determination as 
to which items should be disclosed separately requires a degree of judgement.

Business combinations
The results of subsidiaries acquired or sold during the year are consolidated for the periods from, or to, the date on which control passed. 
Acquisitions are accounted for under the acquisition method. The acquirer’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities that meet the 
conditions for recognition under IFRS 3 (revised 2008) Business Combinations are recognised at their fair value at the acquisition date.

To the extent that such excess purchase consideration relates to the acquisition of mining properties and leases, that amount is capitalised 
within property, plant and equipment as ‘mining properties and leases’. To the extent that such excess purchase consideration relates to the 
acquisition of oil & gas properties, that amount is capitalised within property, plant and equipment as ‘exploratory and evaluation assets’. Other 
excess purchase consideration relating to the acquisition of subsidiaries is capitalised as goodwill. Goodwill arising on acquisitions is reviewed for 
impairment at least annually. 

133

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

2(a) Accounting policies continued
Where the fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities exceed the cost of acquisition, the surplus is credited to the income statement 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 values is made and any adjustments required to those provisional fair values, and the corresponding 
adjustments to purchased goodwill, are finalised within 12 months of the acquisition date. 

The interest of non-controlling shareholders in the acquiree is initially measured at the non-controlling shareholder’s proportion of the net assets 
or proportion of the net fair value of the assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities recognised. This accounting choice is made on a transaction-
by-transaction basis.

Acquisition expenses are charged to the income statement in line with IFRS 3 Business Combinations (revised 2008).

If the Group acquires a group of assets or equity in a company that does not constitute a business combination in accordance with IFRS 3 
Business Combinations (2008 revised), the cost of the acquired group of assets or equity is allocated to the individual identifiable assets 
acquired based on their relative fair value.

Intangible assets
Intangibles assets are measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. The Group determines the 
amortisation period as the period over which the future economic benefits will flow to Group after taking into account all relevant facts and 
circumstance. Amortisation method, residual values and estimated useful life of intangible assets are reviewed annually and more frequently if 
events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment. The Group don’t have any intangible assets for which useful life is indefinite.

Intangible assets arising out of service concession arrangements are accounted for as intangible assets where the Company has a contractual 
right to charge users of services when the projects are completed and is measured at the cost of such construction services completed. Such 
assets are amortised on a straight-line basis over the balance of licence period, usually between 3 to 30 years.

Property, plant and equipment
Relating to mineral assets – mining properties and leases
The costs of mining properties and leases, 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 and leases’ 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 returns relative to the risk and decides to proceed with the 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. From that point, capitalised mining properties and lease costs are amortised on a 
unit-of-production basis over the total estimated remaining commercial reserves of each property or group of properties.

Exploration and evaluation assets acquired are recognised as assets at their cost of acquisition subject to meeting the commercial production 
criteria mentioned above and are subject to impairment review on an annual basis.

Exploration and evaluation expenditure incurred after obtaining the right to mine or the legal right to explore, is capitalised as property, plant 
and equipment and stated at cost less the impairment. 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 
and impairment loss, if any, is recognised prior to reclassification. Exploration and evaluation expenditure incurred prior to obtaining the mining 
right or the legal right to explore are expensed as incurred.

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 the 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. 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 Group determines that the mining property will provide sufficient and sustainable returns relative to the risks and 
the Group decides to proceed with the mine development.

Commercial reserves are proved and probable reserves as defined by the ‘JORC’ Code and ‘SAMREC’ Code. Changes in the commercial reserves 
affecting unit of production calculations are dealt with prospectively over the revised remaining reserves.

134

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY20142(a) Accounting policies continued
Relating to oil & gas assets – Exploration & evaluation assets and developing/producing assets
For oil & 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 income statement. Expenditure incurred on the acquisition of a licence interest is initially capitalised on a 
licence-by-licence basis. Costs are held, are not amortised or depreciated, within exploration and evaluation 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 & gas exploration targets is capitalised initially within property, plant and 
equipment, exploration and evaluation 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 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 exploration 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.

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, including relevant borrowing costs and 
any expected costs of decommissioning. Expenditure incurred after the property, plant and equipment have been put into operation, such as 
repairs and maintenance, are charged to the income statement in the period in which the costs are incurred. Major shut-down and overhaul 
expenditure is capitalised as the activities undertaken improve the economic benefits expected to arise from the asset. 

Assets in the course of construction
Assets in the course of construction are capitalised in the assets under construction account. At the point when an asset is operating at 
management’s intended use, the cost of construction is transferred to the appropriate category of property, plant and equipment and 
depreciation commences (see below). Costs associated with the commissioning of an asset and any obligatory decommissioning costs are 
capitalised where the asset is available for use but incapable of operating at normal levels until a period of commissioning has been completed. 
Revenue generated from production during the trial period is capitalised. Borrowing costs and certain foreign exchange gains or losses are in 
certain circumstances capitalised in the cost of the asset under construction. This policy is set out under ‘Borrowing Costs’.

Depreciation and amortisation
Relating to mining properties
Mining properties and other assets in the course of development or construction, freehold land and goodwill are not depreciated or amortised. 
Capitalised mining properties and lease costs are amortised once commercial production commences, as described in ‘Property, plant and 
equipment – mining properties and leases’. Leasehold land and buildings are depreciated over the period of the lease or, if shorter, their useful 
economic life.

Relating to oil & gas assets
All expenditure carried within each field is amortised from the commencement of production on a unit of production basis, which is the ratio of 
oil & 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 & 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. There should be a 50% statistical probability that the 
actual quantity of recoverable reserves will be more than the amount estimated as proven and probable reserves and a 50% statistical 
probability that it will be less.

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.

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continued

2(a) Accounting policies continued
Others 
Other buildings, plant and equipment, office equipment and fixtures, and motor vehicles are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and 
any provision for impairment. Depreciation commences when the assets are ready for their intended use. Depreciation is provided at rates 
calculated to write-off the cost, less estimated residual value, of each asset on a straight-line basis over its expected useful life, as follows:

Buildings operations 
Administration 
Plant and equipment 
Office equipment and fixtures 3–20 years
9–11 years
Motor vehicles 

30 years
50 years
10–30 years

Major overhaul costs are depreciated over the estimated life of the economic benefit derived from the overhaul. The carrying amount of the 
remaining previous overhaul cost is charged to the income statement if the next overhaul is undertaken earlier than the previously estimated life 
of the economic benefit. 

Property, plant and equipment held for sale or which is part of a disposal Group held for sale is not depreciated. Property, plant and equipment 
held for sale is carried at the lower of its carrying value and fair value less disposal cost and is presented separately on the face of the balance 
sheet.

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 income. 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 income 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 income. For available-for-sale financial assets that are 
equity securities, the change in fair value 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 Company 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
The carrying amounts of property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the 
carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable and, as noted above, the carrying amount of goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually. 
When performing an impairment test, an assessment is made to determine whether the asset’s carrying value exceeds its recoverable amount. 
Whenever the carrying value of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment loss is charged to the income statement. 

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. 

For mining properties and leases, oil & gas assets, other investments and goodwill, the recoverable amount of an asset is determined on the 
basis of its value in use, being the present value of estimated future cash flows expected to arise from the continuing use of an asset and from 
its disposal at the end of its useful life, discounted using a market-based, risk-adjusted, discount rate.

For other property, plant and equipment, the recoverable amount of an asset is also considered on the basis of its net selling price, where it is 
possible to assess the amount that could be obtained from the sale of an asset in an arm’s length transaction, less the cost of disposal.

Recoverable amounts are estimated for individual assets or, if this is not possible, for the relevant cash-generating unit.

Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations
Non-current assets 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 a sale is highly probable from the date of classification, management are 
committed to the sale and the asset is available for immediate sale in its present condition. Non-current assets are classified as held for sale 
from the date these conditions are met and are measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value (less costs to sell). Any resulting 
impairment loss is recognised in the income statement as a special item. On classification as held for sale the assets are no longer depreciated. 

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Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
2(a) Accounting policies continued
Government grants
Government grants relating to property, plant and equipment are treated as deferred income and released to the income statement over the 
expected useful lives of the assets concerned. Other grants are credited to the income statement as and when the related expenditure is 
incurred.

Inventories
Inventories and work-in-progress are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value, less any provision for obsolescence.

Cost is determined on the following bases:
•  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 at Cairn where stores and spares are valued at 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 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.

Taxation
Tax expense represents the sum of tax currently payable 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 balance sheet date.

Deferred tax is provided, using the balance sheet method, on all temporary differences at the balance sheet date between the tax bases of 
assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes. Exceptions to this principle are:
•  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 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, which at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting 
profit nor taxable profit or loss; and

•  Deferred tax assets 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 realised or the liability is 
settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date. Tax relating to items 
recognised directly in equity is recognised in equity and not in the income statement.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet 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 liabilities are offset when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority upon a specific entity and 
the relevant Group entity intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.

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. Any deferred tax is charged or credited in 
the income statement as the underlying temporary difference is reversed.

Retirement benefit schemes
The Group operates or participates in a number of defined benefits and contribution schemes, the assets of which are (where funded) held in 
separately administered funds.

For defined benefit schemes the cost of providing benefits under the plans is determined each year separately for each plan using the projected 
unit credit method by independent qualified actuaries. 

Actuarial gains and losses arising in the year are recognised in Other Comprehensive Income and is not recycled to the income statement.

Net interest is calculated by applying a discount rate to the net defined benefit liability or asset. Defined benefit costs are split into Current 
service cost, past service cost, net interest expense or income and remeasurement.

Current service cost and past service costs is recognised with in cost of sales and administrative expenses. Net interest expense or income is 
recognised within finance costs.

For defined contribution schemes, the amount charged to the income statement in respect of pension costs and other post-retirement benefits 
is the contributions payable in the year.

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continued

2(a) Accounting policies continued
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 with market-related vesting conditions are determined with the assistance of an external valuer and the fair value at the grant date is 
expensed on a straight-line 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. No adjustment is made to the fair value after the vesting date even if the awards are forfeited or not exercised.

Provisions for liabilities and charges
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 income statement as a finance cost. Provisions are reviewed at each balance sheet date and are adjusted to 
reflect the current best estimate.

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. Costs arising from the decommissioning of plant and other site preparation work are provided for 
based on their discounted net present value, with a corresponding amount being capitalised at the start of each project. The amount provided 
for is recognised, as soon as the obligation to incur such costs arises. These costs are charged to the income statement 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, 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 
a finance cost in the income statement.

Costs for restoration of subsequent site damage which is caused on an ongoing basis during production are provided for at their net present 
values and charged to the income statement as extraction progresses. Where the costs of site restoration are not anticipated to be significant, 
they are expensed as incurred.

Operating leases
Rentals under operating leases are charged on a straight-line basis over the lease term, even if the payments are not made on such a basis.

Finance leases
Assets held under finance leases are recognised as assets of the Group at their fair value at the inception of the lease or, if lower, at the present 
value of the minimum lease payments. The corresponding liability to the lessor is included in the Balance Sheet as a finance lease obligation. 
Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and reduction of the lease obligation so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on 
the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are charged to the Income Statement, unless they are directly attributable to qualifying 
assets, in which case they are capitalised in accordance with the Group’s policy on borrowing costs.

The Group has reviewed the terms and conditions of the lease arrangements and determined that all risks and rewards of ownership lie with the 
Group and has therefore accounted for the contracts as finance leases.

Foreign currency translation
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 the local currency of the country in which it operates with the exception of KCM 
and Cairn which has a US dollar functional currency as that is the currency of 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 transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in other currencies are 
translated into the functional currency at exchange rates prevailing on the balance sheet date. 

All exchange differences are included in the income statement, except, where the monetary item is designated as an effective hedging 
instrument of the currency risk of designated forecast sales, where exchange differences are recognised in equity and 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 consolidation, the income statement items of those entities for which the US dollar is not the functional currency are 
translated into US dollars at the average rates of exchange during the period. The related balance sheets are translated at the rates ruling at the 
balance sheet date. Exchange differences arising on translation of the opening net assets and results of such operations, and on foreign 
currency borrowings to the extent that they hedge the Group’s investment in such operations, are reported in other comprehensive income and 
accumulated in equity. 

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Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY20142(a) Accounting policies continued
On disposal of entities with a different functional currency to the Company’s functional currency, the deferred cumulative exchange differences 
recognised in equity relating to that particular operation would be recognised in the income statement.

Financial asset investments
Financial asset investments are classified as available for sale under IAS 39 and are initially recorded at cost and then remeasured at subsequent 
reporting dates to fair value. Unrealised gains and losses on financial asset investments are recognised directly in equity. On disposal or 
impairment of the investments, the gains and losses in equity are recycled to the income statement. 

Investments in unquoted equity instruments that do not have a market price and whose fair value cannot be reliably measured are measured at 
cost.

Investments in equity instruments are recorded in non-current assets unless they are expected to be sold within one year. 

Liquid investments
Liquid investments represent short-term current asset investments that do not meet the definition of cash and cash equivalents for one or more 
of the following reasons:
•  They have a maturity profile greater than 90 days.
•  They may be subject to a greater risk of changes in value than cash.
•  They are held for investment purposes.

The value of trading investments incorporates any dividend and interest earned on the held for trading investments.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents in the balance sheet comprise cash at bank and in hand, short-term deposits with banks and short-term highly liquid 
investments that are readily convertible into cash which are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value and are held for the purpose of 
meeting short-term cash commitments. 

Trade receivables
Trade receivables are stated at their nominal value as reduced by appropriate allowances for estimated irrecoverable amounts. An allowance for 
impairment of trade receivables is made where there is an event, which based on previous experience, is an indication of a reduction in the 
recoverability of the carrying value of the trade receivables.

Trade payables
Trade payables are stated at their nominal value. 

Equity instruments
Equity instruments issued by the Company are recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Borrowings
Interest bearing loans and overdrafts are recorded at the proceeds received. Finance charges, including premiums payable on settlement or 
redemption and direct issue costs, are accounted for on an accruals basis and charged to the income statement using the effective interest 
method. They are added to the carrying amount of the instrument to the extent that they are not settled in the period in which they arise.

Convertible bonds
Convertible bonds denominated in the functional currency of the issuing entity are accounted for as compound instruments. The equity 
components and the liability components are separated out on the date of the issue. The equity component is recognised in a separate reserve 
and is not subsequently remeasured. The liability component is held at amortised cost. The interest expense on the liability component is 
calculated by applying the effective interest rate, being the prevailing market interest rate for similar non-convertible debt. The difference 
between this amount and interest paid is added to the carrying amount of the liability component.

Convertible bonds not denominated in the functional currency of the issuing entity or where a cash conversion option exists, are split into two 
components: a debt component and a component representing the embedded derivative in the convertible bond. The debt component 
represents a liability for future coupon payments and the redemption on the principal amount. The embedded derivative, a financial liability, 
represents the value of the option that bond holders have to convert into ordinary shares. At inception the embedded derivative is recorded at 
fair value and the remaining balance, after deducting a share of issue costs, is recorded as the debt component. Subsequently, the debt 
component is measured at amortised cost and the embedded derivative is measured at fair value at each balance sheet date with the change 
in the fair value recognised in the income statement. The embedded derivative and the debt component are disclosed together and the current/
non-current classification follows the classification of the debt component which is the host contract.

The deferred tax effect arising on the movement in the fair value of the embedded derivative is recognised through the income statement.

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continued

2(a) Accounting policies continued
Borrowing costs
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 in accordance 
with the Group policy which is when they are capable of commercial production. Where funds are borrowed specifically to finance a project, the 
amount capitalised represents the actual borrowing costs incurred. Where surplus funds are available out of money borrowed specifically to 
finance a project, the income generated from such short-term investments is also capitalised to reduce the total capitalised borrowing cost. 

All other borrowing costs are recognised in the income statement in the period in which they are incurred. 

Capitalisation of interest on borrowings related to construction or development projects ceases 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.

Available for sale financial assets
Listed equity shares and debt instruments held by the Group that are traded in an active market are classified as being available for sale (‘AFS’) 
financial assets and are stated at fair value. Unrealised gains and losses on financial asset investments are recognised directly in equity. On 
disposal or impairment of the investments, the gains and losses in equity are recycled to the income statement. Dividends received from 
investees accounted for as equity instruments are recognised in the income statement when the right to receive the payment is established. 

Financial instruments fair value through profit and loss
Held for trading financial assets
Financial assets are classified as held for trading if they have been acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near term. The change in 
fair value of trading investments incorporates any dividend and interest earned on the held for trading investments and is accounted for in the 
income statement.

Derivative financial instruments
In order to hedge its exposure to foreign exchange, interest rate and commodity price risks, the Group enters into forward contracts, option 
contracts, 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 remeasured at their fair 
value at subsequent balance sheet dates. 

Hedge accounting
The Group designates certain hedging instruments, which include derivatives and non-derivatives in respect of foreign currency risk, as either fair 
value hedges or cash flow hedges. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in 
the income statement. The hedged item is recorded at fair value and any gain or loss is recorded in the income statement and is offset by the 
gain or loss from the change in the fair value of the derivative.

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded in equity. This includes certain 
non-derivative liabilities that are designated as instruments used to hedge the foreign currency risk on future, highly probable, forecast sales. 
Amounts deferred to equity are recycled in the income statement in the periods when the hedged item is recognised in the income statement. 

The gain or loss on hedging instruments relating to the effective portion of a net investment hedge is recognised in equity. The ineffective 
portion is recognised immediately in the income statement. Gains or losses accumulated in equity are included in the income statement on 
disposal of the foreign operations to which they relate.

Derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are marked to market at the balance sheet date and gains or losses 
are recognised in the income statement immediately.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge 
accounting. Any cumulative gain or loss on the hedging instrument recognised in equity is kept in equity until the forecast transaction occurs. If 
a hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net cumulative gain or loss recognised in equity is transferred to net profit or loss for the 
year.

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 income statement.

Held-to-maturity financial assets
Financial instruments with fixed or determinable payments and fixed maturity dates that the Group has the positive intent and ability to hold to 
maturity are classified as held-to-maturity investments. Held-to-maturity investments are measured at amortised cost using the effective 
interest method.

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Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY20142(b) Critical accounting judgement and estimation uncertainty
In the course of applying the policies outlined in Note 2(a), management made estimations and assumptions that impact the amounts 
recognised in the financial statements. Vedanta believes that judgement and estimation has been made in the following areas:

Oil & gas reserves
Oil & 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 regularly. 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 commodity prices could impact the 
depreciation rates, carrying value of assets and environmental and restoration provisions.

Carrying value of exploration and evaluation fixed assets 
Where a project is sufficiently advanced the recoverability of IFRS 6 Exploration assets are assessed by comparing the carrying value to internal 
and operator estimates of the net present value of projects. Exploration assets are inherently judgemental to value and further details on the 
accounting policy are included in accounting note above. The amounts for exploration and evaluation assets represent active exploration 
projects. These amounts will be written-off to the income statement 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.

Carrying value of developing/producing oil & gas assets 
Management perform impairment tests on the Group’s developing/producing oil & gas assets at least annually with reference to indicators in 
IAS 36. Key assumptions in the impairment models relate to prices that are based on forward curves for two years and the long-term 
appropriate assumptions thereafter and discount rates that are adjusted to risk to reflect conditions specific to individual assets.

Other key assumptions in the impairment models based on management expectations are that government approval will be received to further 
increase production rates and that the Enhanced Oil Recovery program will be successfully implemented.

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.

Useful economic lives and impairment of other assets
Property, plant and equipment other than mining properties, oil & gas properties, and leases are depreciated over their useful economic lives. 
Management reviews the useful economic lives at least once a year and any changes could affect the depreciation rates prospectively and 
hence the asset carrying values. The Group also reviews its property, plant and equipment, including mining properties and leases, for possible 
impairment if there are events or changes in circumstances that indicate that carrying values of the assets may not be recoverable. In assessing 
the property, plant and equipment for impairment, factors leading to significant reduction in profits such as changes in commodity prices, the 
Group’s business plans and changes in regulatory environment are taken into consideration. The carrying value of the assets of a cash 
generating unit (‘CGU’) is compared with the recoverable amount of those assets, that is, the higher of net realisable value and value in use. 
Value in use is usually determined on the basis of discounted estimated future cash flows. This involves management estimates on commodity 
prices, market demand and supply, economic and regulatory climates, long-term plan, discount rates and other factors. Any subsequent changes 
to cash flow due to changes in the above mentioned factors could impact on the carrying value of the assets. 

Assessment of impairment at Lanjigarh Refinery
The Group has considered that the delay in obtaining regulatory approval for the expansion of the alumina refinery at Lanjigarh and regulatory 
approval for bauxite mining as an indication of impairment. Hence, the Group have reviewed the carrying value of its property, plant and 
equipments at Lanjigarh as at balance sheet date, estimated the recoverable amounts of these assets and concluded that there was no 
impairment because the recoverable amount (estimated based on value in use) exceeded the carrying amounts. 

The key assumptions and estimates used in determining the value in use of these assets were:
•  The State of Odisha has abundant bauxite resources and under the terms of the memorandum of understanding (‘MOU’) with the 

Government of Odisha, management is confident that bauxite will be made available in the short to medium-term. The Company is also 
considering purchase/sourcing bauxite from alternate sources to support the existing and expanded refinery operations. In the initial years, 
the Company has assumed that bauxite will be purchased from third party suppliers in India and other countries, till the bauxite is sourced 
from our own mines.

•  The State of Odisha has taken certain measures including reservation of areas for mining operations or undertaking prospecting and the 

constitution of a Ministerial Committee for the formulation of a policy for the supply of ores to Odisha-based industries on a long-term basis.
•  The management expects that the conditions for the construction of the alumina refinery will be fulfilled and it is assumed that the approval 

for the expansion of the refinery would be received for commencement of production by fiscal 2018.

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continued

2(b) Critical accounting judgement and estimation uncertainty continued
Management expects that the mining approvals for mining and the statutory approvals for the expansion project will be received as anticipated. 
Additionally the Group carries out impairment assessment for carrying value of these assets, every half year and challenges these assumptions.

As at 31 March 2014 the carrying amount of property plant and equipment related to alumina refinery operations at Lanjigarh and related 
mining assets is US$1,231 million (31 March 2013: US$1,423.6 million).

Assessment of impairment of Karnataka and Goa iron ore mines 
Karnataka mining 
The mining ban in Karnataka was lifted on 17 April 2013. The Group has complied with all conditions for the recommencement of operations, 
and mining operations resumed in December 2013 with a production 1.5 million tonnes during the year. The carrying value of assets as at  
31 March 2014 is US$260.4 million (31 March 2013: US$296 million).

Goa mining
The Supreme Court passed an order on 21 April 2014 whereby the ban was lifted, subject to certain conditions. The key conditions are as follows
•  The maximum annual excavation for Goa has been limited to 20 million tonnes until the Expert Committee issues determines the final annual 

capacity of mining at Goa.

•  All mining leases in the State of Goa are suspended and State Government would grant mining leases in accordance with the Mines and 

Minerals (Development and regulation) Act, 1957.

•  10% of the sale price of the iron ore sold by the mining lessees to be contributed to a separate fund.
•  Out of the sale proceeds of excavated ore, the leaseholders would be paid only the average cost of excavation of iron ore and the balance 

amount to be allocated amongst various affected stakeholders and the Government of Goa.

Vedanta is expecting to start mining activities at iron ore mines at Goa in the second half of fiscal 2015, after receipt of all regulatory clearances 
and approving of mining leases. Management has reviewed the carrying value of the assets as at balance sheet date, estimated the recoverable 
amounts of these assets and concluded that there was no impairment because the recoverable amount (estimated based on value in use) 
exceeded the carrying amounts.

The carrying value of assets affected as at 31 March 2014 is US$1,045.0 million (31 March 2013: US$799 million).

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. The costs are 
estimated on the basis of closure plans and the estimated discounted costs of dismantling and removing these facilities and the costs of 
restoration are capitalised when incurred reflecting Company’s obligations at that time. A corresponding provision is created on the liability side. 
The capitalised asset is charged to the income statement over the life of the asset through depreciation over the life of the operation 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. 

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. 

Contingencies and commitments
In the normal course of business, contingent liabilities may arise from litigation and other claims against the Group. 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. 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 37. 

The HZL and BALCO call options
The Group had exercised its call option to acquire the remaining 49% 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 39. 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. 

142

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY20143. Segment information
The Group’s primary format for segmental reporting is based on its business segments. The business segments consist of zinc, iron ore, copper, 
aluminium, power and oil & gas with components not meeting the quantitative threshold for reporting being reported as ‘Others’. Business 
segment financial data includes certain corporate costs, which have been allocated on an appropriate basis. The risks and returns of the Group’s 
operations are primarily determined by the nature of the different activities in which the Group is engaged. Inter-segment sales are charged 
based on prevailing market prices. The Group’s activities are organised on a global basis. 

Vedanta Resources plc is company incorporated in the United Kingdom under the Companies Act 2006. The Group’s reportable segments 
defined in accordance with IFRS 8 are as follows:
•  Zinc-India
•  Zinc-International
•  Oil & gas 
•  Iron Ore
•  Copper-India/Australia
•  Copper-Zambia
•  Aluminium
•  Power

Management monitors the operating results of reportable segments for the purpose of making decisions about resources to be allocated and 
for assessing performance. Segment performance is evaluated based on the EBITDA of each segment. 

The following tables present revenue and profit information and certain asset and liability information regarding the Group’s reportable 
segments for the year ended 31 March 2014 and 31 March 2013. Items after operating profit are not allocated by segment. 

(a) Reportable segments
The following tables present revenue and profit information and certain asset and liability information regarding the Group’s reportable 
segments for the years ended 31 March 2014 and 31 March 2013

Year ended 31 March 2014

(US$ million)

REVENUE
Sales to external customers
Inter-segment sales

Zinc-India

Zinc-
International

 Oil & gas

Iron Ore 

Copper-
India/
Australia

Copper-
Zambia

Aluminium

Power

Total 
reportable 
segment

Elimination/
others

Total 
operations

2,181.7
13.7

661.4
–

3,092.8
–

266.4
0.7

3,399.8
5.0

964.5
306.9

1,782.1
3.3

579.4 12,928.1
371.9

42.3

16.9 12,945.0
–

(371.9)

Segment revenue

2,195.4

661.4 3,092.8

267.1 3,404.8 1,271.4 1,785.4

621.7 13,300.0

(355.0) 12,945.0

Segment RESULT
EBITDA1
Depreciation and amortisation2
Special items (Note 5)

Operating profit
Investment revenue
Finance costs
Other gains and losses (net)

PROFIT BEFORE TAXATION

Segments assets
Unallocated assets

TOTAL ASSETS

Segment liabilities
Unallocated liabilities

TOTAL LIABILITIES

Other segment information

Additions to property, plant 

1,145.0

213.4

2,347.0

(24.2)

197.9

156.3

287.3

168.4

4,491.1

0.1

4,491.2
(2,203.1)
(138.0)

2,150.1
687.7
(1,355.7)
(364.0)

1,118.1

6,557.8

902.2 21,094.4 2,043.6

1,642.6

2,422.8

6,976.4

3,184.3 44,824.1

(258.7)

(310.7) (5,142.9) (1,104.2) (2,123.0) (1,458.8) (5,121.5) (2,115.9) (17,635.7)

104.2 44,928.3
446.0

45,374.3

(85.2) (17,720.9)
(9,678.6)

(27,399.5)

and equipment

345.7

44.2

649.1

43.6

56.1

150.5

165.2

289.4

1,743.8

1.5

1,745.3

Depreciation and amortisation

(114.8)

(137.3) (1,413.4)

(45.8)

(42.1)

(171.5)

(174.7)

(99.1) (2,198.7)

(4.4) (2,203.1)

Impairment losses (Note 5)

–

(47.5)

–

–

–

(23.1)

(11.0)

–

(81.6)

–

(81.6)

1   EBITDA is a non-IFRS measure and represents operating profit before special items, depreciation and amortisation.
2  Depreciation and amortisation is also provided to the chief operating decision maker on a regular basis.
3  Transfer prices between operating segment sales are on an arm’s length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third parties except from power segment sales amounting to  

US$36.6 million for the year ended 31 March 2014 (March 2013: US$9.8 million), which is at cost.

143

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

3. Segmental information continued
Year ended 31 March 2013 (Restated)1

(US$ million) 

REVENUE
Sales to external customers
Inter-segment sales

Zinc-India

Zinc-
International

 Oil & gas

Iron Ore 

Copper-
India/
Australia 

Copper-
Zambia2 Aluminium

Power

Total 
reportable 
segment

Elimination/
others

Total 
operations

2,263.3
–

797.2
–

3,223.4
–

441.3
1.2

3,989.0
2.1

1,393.2
349.6

1,835.8
2.0

631.7 14,574.9
392.2

37.3

65.3 14,640.2
–

(392.2)

Segment revenue

2,263.3

797.2 3,223.4

442.5 3,991.1 1,742.8 1,837.8

669.0 14,967.1

(326.9) 14,640.2

Segment RESULT
EBITDA1
Depreciation and 
amortisation

Special items (Note 5)

Operating profit
Investment revenue
Finance costs
Other gains and losses (net)

PROFIT BEFORE TAXATION

Segments assets
Unallocated assets

TOTAL ASSETS

Segment liabilities
Unallocated liabilities
TOTAL LIABILITIES

Other segment information

Additions to property, plant 

1,182.5

294.5

2,440.3

84.9

219.1

257.3

202.6

228.5

4,909.7

(0.8) 4,908.9

6,165.9

1,132.7 20,581.8 2,239.6

2,129.2

2,448.6

7,644.7

3,338.3 45,680.8

(229.8)

(621.8) (4,794.0) (1,367.8) (2,478.6) (1,492.7) (5,537.8) (1,318.5) (17,841.0)

(2,337.2)
(41.9)

2,529.8
669.0
(1,189.9)
(285.2)

1,723.7 

115.8 45,796.6
165.1

45,961.7

(86.9) (17,927.9)
(9,164.8)
(27,092.7)

and equipment

287.1

35.5

423.6

128.1

89.4

259.8

424.1

702.9

2,350.5

58.8

2,409.3

Depreciation and amortisation

(110.1)

(183.9) (1,434.9)

(84.3)

(43.2)

(193.7)

(191.2)

(95.9) (2,337.1)

(0.1) (2,337.2)

1  The comparative information has been restated so as to reflect the adoption of new accounting pronouncements, details of which have been set out in Note 40.
2  This segment has been restated as a result of reallocation of intercompany sales via an external agent.

(b) Geographical segmental analysis
The Group’s operations are located in India, Zambia, Namibia, South Africa, Liberia, Ireland, Australia, UAE and Sri Lanka. The following table 
provides an analysis of the Group’s sales by country in which the customer is located, irrespective of the origin of the goods. 

(US$ million) 

India
China
Far East Asia
Middle East
Europe
Africa
Asia Others
UK
Other

Total

144

Year  
ended  
31 March  
2014

8,234.1
1,742.0
1,003.2
724.2
537.0
213.0
83.8
19.1
388.6

Year  
ended  
31 March 
2013 
(Restated)

9,477.6
2,113.0
672.5
829.2
1,003.0
278.1
133.5
–
133.3

12,945.0 14,640.2

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY20143. Segmental information continued
The following is an analysis of the carrying amount of segment assets, and additions to property, plant and equipment, analysed by the country 
in which the assets are located. No material non-current assets are located in the United Kingdom and no significant additions to property, plant 
and equipment have been made there.

(US$ million) 

Australia
India
Zambia
Namibia
Ireland
South Africa
Sri Lanka
Other

Total

1  Non-current assets do not include deferred tax assets and derivative receivables.

4. Total revenue

(US$ million) 

Revenue from sales of goods
Other operating income
Investment revenue

5. Special items

(US$ million) 

Voluntary retirement schemes (redundancy costs)
Impairment of mining reserves and assets1
Acquisition & restructuring related costs2
Land regularisation fee3
Provision for contractor dispute4
Tuticorin plant compensation5
Project cost write off6

Carrying amount  
of non-current assets1

Additions to property,  
plant and equipment

As at  
31 March  
2014

As at  
31 March 
2013

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

24.3
27,548.7
2,091.7
204.6
69.7
375.2
787.6
200.7

31.9 
29,386.9
2,135.6 
285.9
155.3 
412.1 
785.9 
71.8 

8.1
1,497.7
150.9
13.4
19.6
27.5
–
28.1

Year ended  
31 March 
2013 
(Restated)

19.6
1,973.8
259.8
5.9
20.0
23.4
60.3
46.5

31,302.5 33,265.4

1,745.3

2,409.3

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March 
2013

12,945.0
84.0
687.7

14,640.2
90.3
669.0

13,716.7 15,399.5

Year ended  
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

(15.1)
(81.6)
(2.6)
(16.6)
(22.1)

–

(9.4)
–
(4.7)
–
–
(18.4)
(9.4)

(138.0)

(41.9)

1  Impairment for the year ended 31 March 2014 includes:

•  US$47.5 million, impairment of mining reserve and land assets at Lisheen. This is as a result of fall in the forecasted LME prices of Zinc and Lead.
•  US$11.0 million, impairment of mining assets of Jharsuguda Aluminium at Lanjigarh as the MOEF has rejected the Stage II forest clearance for the Niyamgiri mining project.
•  US$23.1 million, impairment of COP F&D mining assets of KCM at Nchanga, Zambia as the mine has been put under maintenance following a dispute with the mining contractor.

2  Acquisition related costs include costs of Group simplification and restructuring and other acquisition related costs.
3  Payments made pursuant to amendment during the Year ended 31 March 2014 under the Land Revenue Code for regulating mining dumps at Goa.
4  Relates to a provision recognised following a dispute with a mining contractor at Copper Zambia.
5  The Supreme Court of India, had issued the final judgement dated 2 April 2013 on Sesa Sterlite, a subsidiary of the Group to pay compensation of US$18.4 million to be deposited within three 

months from the date of the order with the local authority of Tuticorin.

6  Write off of initial project cost at Copper Zambia, as the project was not deemed economically viable.

The tax effect of the special items during the year ended 31 March 2014 is US$29.4 million.

145

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

6. Investment revenue

(US$ million) 

Interest income on loans and receivables
Interest income on cash and bank balances
Change in fair value of financial assets held for trading
Profit on disposal of financial assets held for trading
Dividend income on financial assets held for trading
Profit on sale of available-for-sale investment
Foreign exchange gain/(loss) on cash and liquid investments
Capitalisation of interest income

7. Finance costs

(US$ million) 

Interest on loans, overdrafts and bonds
Coupon interest on convertible bonds (Note 27)
Accretive interest on convertible bonds (Note 27)
Other borrowing and finance costs

Total interest cost

Unwinding of discount on provisions (Note 29)
Net interest on defined benefit arrangements (Note 32)
Capitalisation of borrowing costs (Note 17)1

1  All borrowing costs are capitalised using rates based on specific borrowings.

8. Other gains and (losses) (net)

(US$ million) 

Foreign exchange gains and losses
Qualifying exchange losses capitalised (Note 17)
Change in fair value of financial liabilities measured at fair value
Change in fair value of embedded derivative on convertible bonds (Note 27)
Loss arising on qualifying hedges and non-qualifying hedges

9. Profit for the year has been stated after charging/(crediting):

(US$ million) 

Depreciation & amortisation
Costs of inventories recognised as an expense
Auditor’s remuneration for audit services
Research and development
Loss/(profit) on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Provision for receivables
Impairment of mining reserves and assets
Staff costs 
Net foreign exchange losses

146

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

31.3
202.3
383.5
65.1
0.9
–
4.8
(0.2)

29.7
183.3
188.9
115.5
89.9
56.1
6.7
(1.1)

687.7

669.0

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

1,031.1
108.7
187.2
83.5

929.9
138.7
168.9
147.0

1,410.5

1,384.5

21.8
6.8
(83.4)

27.6
6.1
(228.3)

1,355.7

1,189.9

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

(370.0)
73.0
(1.1)
4.7
(70.6)

(336.2)
86.3
(5.3)
24.7
(54.7)

(364.0)

(285.2)

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

2,203.1
4,014.2
2.4
0.5
4.4
35.5
81.6
801.6
320.2

2,337.2
4,364.7
2.9
0.5
(11.6)
–
–
725.6
262.0

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201410. Auditor’s remuneration
The table below shows the fees payable globally to the Company’s auditor, Deloitte LLP, for statutory external audit and audit related services, 
as well as fees paid to other accountancy firms for statutory external audit and audit related services in each of the two years ended 31 March:

(US$ million) 

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor for the audit of Vedanta Resources plc annual accounts
The audit of the Company’s subsidiaries pursuant to legislation

Total audit fees

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and their associates for other services to the Group
Other services pursuant to legislation1
Tax services2
Corporate finance services3
Other services4

Total non-audit fees

Total fees paid to the Company’s auditor

Audit fees payable to other auditors of the Group’s subsidiaries
Non-audit fees payable to other auditors of the Group’s subsidiaries

Total fees paid to other auditors

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

0.8
1.6

2.4

1.3
0.5
0.6
0.4

2.8

5.2

0.5
0.1

0.6

0.7
2.2

2.9

1.3
0.4
2.2
0.3

4.2

7.1

0.5
0.1

0.6

1  Other services pursuant to legislation principally comprise assurance services, being quarterly reviews of the Group’s subsidiaries results and the half year review of the Group’s results.
2  Tax services principally comprise certification and assurance services as required by Indian tax regulations.
3  Corporate finance services principally comprise Group simplification and other acquisition related certifications. These assurance-related services are ordinarily provided by the auditor.
4  Includes certification related services.

11. Employee numbers and costs
Average number of persons employed by the Group in the year

Class of business

Zinc

  – India
  – International

Iron ore
Copper

  – India/Australia
  – Zambia

Aluminium
Power
Oil & gas
Other

Costs incurred during the year in respect of employees and Executive Directors

(US$ million) 

Salaries and wages
Defined contribution pension scheme costs (Note 32)
Defined benefit pension scheme costs (Note 32)
Share-based payments charge

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

7,681

5,797
1,884

3,708
9,142

1,268
7,874

6,404
349
1,734
136

8,056

6,164
1,892

4,376
9,891

1,347
8,544

6,840
358
1,416
134

29,154

31,071

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

726.3
25.7
16.7
32.9

801.6

650.7
26.2
23.2
25.5

725.6

147

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

12. Tax

(US$ million) 

Current tax:
UK Corporation tax
Foreign tax
– India
– Australia
– Africa and Europe
– Other

Deferred tax: (Note 30)
Current year movement in deferred tax

Total tax expense

Effective tax rate

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

19.3

0.9

494.4
(0.8)
37.7
3.7

554.3

855.3
16.1
39.3
6.6

918.2

(425.6)

(872.1)

(425.6)

(872.1)

128.7

11.5%

46.1

2.7%

Consequent to the effectiveness of the scheme of merger (Note 44), tax effects on current/deferred tax has been given effect to in the financial 
statements for the year ended 31 March 2014.

The deferred tax benefit recycled from equity to the income statement is US$0.3 million (2013: US$5.3 million). The tax rate has gone up during 
the year from 2.7% to 11.5% largely on account of a credit of US$290 million in Cairn India due to reorganisation in previous year. The impact 
of tax reversal of US$257 million during the year on account of the Sesa Sterlite merger was largely offset by creating deferred tax liability on 
fair values at Cairn India on account of increase in surcharge by 5% and certain one time provisions.

Deferred tax recognised in the income statement:

(US$ million) 

Accelerated capital allowances
Unutilised tax losses
Other temporary differences

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

(463.1)
517.1
371.6

(307.1)
9.2
(574.2)

425.6

(872.1)

No deferred tax has been recognised in respect of temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries where the Group is in a 
position to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that such differences will not reverse in the 
foreseeable future. The aggregate amount of temporary differences associated with such investments in subsidiaries is represented by the 
contribution of those investments to the Group’s retained earnings and amounted to US$6,662.7 million (2013: US$7,248.4 million).

A reconciliation of income tax expense applicable to accounting profit before tax at the Indian statutory income tax rate to income tax expense 
at the Group’s effective income tax rate for the year ended 31 March 2014 is as follows:

(US$ million) 

Accounting profit before tax 

At Indian statutory income tax rate of 33.99% (2013: 32.45%)
Unrecognised tax losses
Disallowable expenses/Dividend Distribution Tax/Other permanent differences
Non-taxable income
Impact relating to changes in tax rate
Tax holiday and similar exemptions
Minimum alternative tax
Adjustments in respect of previous years
Sesa Sterlite merger impact

At effective income tax rate of 11.5% (2013: 2.7 %)

148

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

1,118.1

1,723.7

380.0
110.6
133.4
(63.0)
407.4
(642.0)
(31.3)
9.5
(175.9)

128.7

559.3
270.9
48.2
 (106.9)
211.3
 (959.9)
 (0.8)
24.0
–

46.1

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201413. Earnings per share 
Basic earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing net profit for the year attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent by the 
weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year.

24,206,816 treasury shares are excluded from the total outstanding shares for the calculation of EPS.

Diluted earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing the net profit attributable to ordinary equity holders by the weighted average 
number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year (adjusted for the effects of dilutive options and the Group’s convertible bonds).The 
following reflects the income and share data used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

(US$ million) 

Net (loss)/profit attributable to equity holders of the parent

(US$ million except as stated) 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for basic earnings per share (million)
Effect of dilution:
Share options

Adjusted weighted average number of ordinary shares for diluted earnings per share

Earnings per share based on (loss)/profit for the year
Basic earnings per share on (loss)/profit for the year

(US$ million except as stated) 

(Loss)/profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent (US$ million)
Weighted average number of shares of the Company in issue (million)

Earnings per share on (loss)/profit for the year (US cents per share)

Diluted earnings per share on (loss)/profit for the year

(US$ million except as stated) 

(Loss)/profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent (US$ million)

(Loss)/profit for the year after dilutive adjustment (US$ million)

Adjusted weighted average number of shares of the Company in issue (million)

Diluted earnings per share on (loss)/profit for the year (US cents per share)

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

(196.0)

162.0

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

273.5

272.9

8.0

4.8

281.5

277.7

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

(196.0)
273.5

(71.7)

162.0
272.9

59.4

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

(196.0)

(196.0)

273.5

(71.7)

162.0

162.0

277.7

58.3

The effect of 8 million (2013: 4.8 million) potential ordinary shares, which relate to share option awards under the LTIP scheme, on the 
attributable loss for the year is anti-dilutive and thus these shares are not considered in determining basic EPS. However the effect of these 
awards on underlying attributable earnings is dilutive and hence the potential ordinary shares are considered in determining underlying EPS 
below.

Loss for the year would be decreased if holders of the convertible bonds in Vedanta exercised their right to convert their bond holdings into 
Vedanta equity. The impact on loss for the year of this conversion would be the reduction in interest payable on the convertible bond.

The adjustment in respect of convertible bonds has an anti-dilutive impact on earnings and is thus not considered in determining diluted EPS.

Earnings per share based on underlying profit for the year (non-GAAP)
The Group’s underlying profit is the profit for the year after adding back special items, other losses/(gains) (Note 8) and their resultant tax and 
non-controlling interest effects. This is a non-GAAP measure.

(US$ million) 

(Loss)/profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent
Special items 
Other losses/(gains)
Tax and non-controlling interest effect of special items and other losses/gains

Underlying attributable profit for the year 

Note

5

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

(196.0)
138.0
364.0
(212.6)

162.0
41.9
285.2
(121.2)

93.4

367.9

149

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

13. Earnings per share continued 
Basic earnings per share on underlying profit for the year (non-GAAP)

(US$ million except as stated) 

Underlying profit for the year (US$ million)
Weighted average number of shares of the Company in issue (million)

Earnings per share on Underlying Profit for the year (US cents per share)

Diluted earnings per share on Underlying Profit for the year (non-GAAP)

(US$ million except as stated) 

Underlying profit for the year (US$ million)
Adjusted weighted average number of shares of the Company (million)

Diluted earnings per share on Underlying Profit for the year (US cents per share)

14. Dividends 

(US$ million) 

Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders:
Equity dividends on ordinary shares:
Final dividend for 2012–13: 37 US cents per share (2011–12: 35 US cents per share)
Interim dividend paid during the year: 22 US cents per share (2012–13: 21 US cents per share)

Proposed for approval at AGM 
Equity dividends on ordinary shares:
Final dividend for 2013–14: 39 US cents per share (2012–13: 37 US cents per share)

15. Goodwill

(US$ million) 

Cost (gross carrying amount)
Accumulated impairment losses

Net carrying amount at 31 March

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

93.4
273.5

34.2

367.9
272.9

134.8

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

93.4
281.5

33.2

367.9
277.7

132.5

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

101.8
60.7

162.5

96.0
57.5

153.5

107.5

101.8

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

16.6
–

16.6

21.3
(4.7)

16.6

Goodwill is allocated for impairment testing purposes to the following Cash Generating Units (‘CGU’s’). The allocation of goodwill to CGU’s is as 
follows:
•  US$12.2 million Copper India.
•  US$4.4 million Iron ore business.

The Group tests goodwill annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indications that goodwill might be impaired. 

The Company has undertaken an impairment review of goodwill of US$16.6 million as at 31 March 2014. The carrying amount of goodwill 
allocated to the relevant cash generating unit is considered to be insignificant in comparison with the total carrying value of the cash generating 
unit. The carrying amount of goodwill was evaluated using the discounted future cash flows of the entities to which the goodwill pertains and 
comparing this to the total carrying value of the relevant cash generating units. It was determined that the carrying amount of goodwill is not 
impaired.

150

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201416. Intangible assets
Intangible assets include port concession rights to operate a general cargo berth for handling coal at the outer harbour of the Visakhapatnam 
port on the east coast of India, rights to use treated water from sewage treatment plant at Zinc India operations and software licences.

(US$ million) 

Cost
As at 1 April 2013
Addition 
Transfer from tangible assets
Foreign exchange differences

As at 31 March 2014

Accumulated amortisations
As at 1 April 2013
Charge for the year
Foreign exchange differences

As at 31 March 2014

Net book value
As at 1 April 2013

As at 31 March 2014

Port 
concession 
rights

–
1.1
98.1
0.7

99.9

–
3.5
–

3.5

–

96.4

Others

Total

–
8.3
8.0
(1.5)

–
9.4
106.1
(0.8)

14.8

114.7

–
3.0
(0.4)

2.6

–
6.5
(0.4)

6.1

–

–

12.2

108.6

Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited (‘VGCB’), a special purpose vehicle, was incorporated for the coal berth mechanisation and upgrades 
at Visakhapatnam port. VGCB is owned by Sesa Sterlite and Leighton Welspun Contractors Private Limited in the ratio of 74 : 26. 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 a licence fee, an exclusive licence 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 an upgraded berth would be 10.18mmtpa and that the Visakhapatnam 
Port would be entitled to receive a 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 its tariff 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 a 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

Revenue from construction contract of service concession arrangements on exchanging construction services for the port concession rights, 
recognised in the consolidated statements of income for the year ended 31 March 2014, is US$1.1 million (2013: US$65.3 million).

The intangible asset of right to use the sewage treatment plant is amortised over 25 years. Software licences are amortised over a period of 
three years. 

151

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

17. Property, plant and equipment

(US$ million)

Cost
At 1 April 2012
Additions
Transfers
Additions due to prior period 

restatement (Note 40)
Addition due to acquisition
Reclassification from accumulated 

depreciation

Unsuccessful exploration costs
Disposals
Foreign exchange differences

At 1 April 2013
Additions
Transfers
Transfers to intangible
Reclassification from accumulated 

depreciation

Impairment of assets
Unsuccessful exploration costs
Disposals
Foreign exchange differences

Mining 
property and 
leases

Leasehold 
land and 
buildings

Freehold land 
and buildings

Plant and 
equipment1

Assets under 
construction

Oil & gas 
properties

Exploratory 
and 
evaluation 
assets

Others

Total

3,262.2
29.0
77.2

147.0
2.4
–

1,130.4
100.3
6.9

9,899.9
685.7
610.3

6,555.5
1,165.7
(694.4)

 7,539.5  10,103.0
95.2
–

310.4
–

80.7 38,718.2
2,409.3
20.6
–
–

14.7
–

–
–
–
(190.4)

3,192.7
49.9
50.7
–

133.8
(66.6)
–
(7.4)
(245.3)

–
–

–
–
(0.2)
(2.7)

–
–

–
–
(0.2)
(78.5)

–
–

(0.1)
–
(24.3)
(507.6)

146.5
15.7
3.1
–

1,158.9 10,663.9
272.6
205.3
(8.0)

133.0
2.1
–

–
–
–
(0.7)
(4.1)

(2.4)
(4.0)
–
(12.6)
(104.7)

(202.6)
–
–
(251.4)
(745.3)

–
–

–
–
(9.4)
(356.2)

6,661.2
581.0
(270.8)
(98.0)

–
(11.0)
–
(2.7)
(613.2)

–
–

–
–
–
–

–
(58.5)

–
(51.8)
–
(33.4)

7,849.9 10,054.5
253
–
–

 387.1
–
–

–
–
–
–
–

–
–
(10.8)
–
(22.9)

–
–

14.7
(58.5)

(0.8)
–
–
(2.2)

(0.9)
(51.8)
(34.1)
(1,171.0)

98.3 39,825.9
1,745.3
53.0
–
9.6
(106.0)
–

(1.1)
–
–
(0.9)
(4.3)

(72.3)
(81.6)
(10.8)
(275.7)
(1,739.8)

At 31 March 2014

3,107.8

160.5

1,170.3

9,934.5

6,246.5

8,237.0 10,273.8

154.6 39,285.0

Accumulated depreciation
At 1 April 2012
Charge for the year
Disposals
Additions due to prior period 

restatement (Note 40)
Reclassification to cost 
Foreign exchange differences

At 1 April 2013
Charge for the year
Disposal
Reclassification to cost 
Foreign exchange differences

At 31 March 2014

Net book value
At 1 April 2012
At 1 April 2013
At 31 March 2014

1,354.3
191.6
–

2.7
–
(73.8)

1,474.8
162.3
(6.6)
39.3
(106.8)

1,563.0

1,907.9
1,717.9
1,544.8

56.9
1.3
–

–
–
(0.4)

57.8
0.9
–
0.2
(0.7)

58.2

145.4
50.9
0.3

–
–
(12.4)

184.2
43.4
(10.7)
(6.3)
(15.7)

2,637.4
659.2
(13.6)

–
(0.9)
(117.9)

3,164.2
580.5
(233.7)
(107.3)
(199.8)

194.9

3,203.9

17.8
–
–

331.2
1,425.1
–

–
–
–

17.8
–
–
–
–

17.8

–
–
–

1,756.3
1,401.1
–
–
–

3,157.4

14.3
–
–

–
–
–

14.3
–
–
–
–

14.3

19.2
6.2
–

–
–
(1.5)

23.9
8.4
(0.2)
1.8
(1.9)

4,576.5
2,334.3
(13.3)

2.7
(0.9)
(206.0)

6,693.3 
2,196.6
(251.2)
(72.3)
(324.9)

32.0

8,241.5

90.1
88.7
102.3

985.0
974.7
975.4

7,262.5
7,499.7
6,730.6

6,537.7
6,643.4
6,228.7

10,088.7
7,208.3
6,093.6
10,040.2
5,079.6 10,259.5

61.5
74.4

34,141.7
33,132.6
122.6 31,043.5

1  Plant and equipment include refineries, smelters, power plants and related facilities. Other tangible fixed assets include office equipment and fixtures, and light vehicles. At 31 March 2014, land 
with a carrying value of US$122.8 million (31 March 2013: US$102.3 million) was not depreciated. During the year ended 31 March 2014, interest and foreign exchange losses capitalised was 
US$156.4 million (31 March 2013: US$314.6 million).

2   Certain property, plant and equipment are pledged as collateral against borrowings, the details related to which have been described in Note 24 on Borrowings.

152

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201418. Financial asset investments
Financial asset investments are required to be classified and accounted for as either available-for-sale or fair value through profit or loss.  
The Group only has financial asset investments classified as available-for-sale.

Available-for-sale investments

(US$ million) 

At 1 April
Disposal
Movements in fair value
Exchange difference

At 31 March

Analysis of financial asset investments

(US$ million) 

Quoted
Unquoted

(US$ million) 

Current
Non-current

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

20.6
(16.4)
–
(2.5)

1.7

209.6
(171.9)
(14.1)
(3.0)

20.6

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

1.7
–

2.4
18.2

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

–
1.7

18.2
2.4

Quoted investments represent investments in equity securities that present the Group with opportunity for return through dividend income  
and gains in value. These securities are held at fair value based on market prices. 

In April 2013, the Group disposed its investment in Andhra Pradesh Gas Power Corporation Limited (‘APGPCL’) for a consideration of  
US$18.1 million.

19. Other non-current assets

(US$ million) 

Deposits, advances and other receivables due after one year

20. Inventories

(US$ million) 

Raw materials and consumables 
Work-in-progress 
Finished goods

As at 
31 March 
2014

132.1

132.1

As at 
31 March 
2013

113.4

113.4

As at 
31 March 
2014

952.9
557.7
231.9

As at 
31 March 
2013

1,288.4
459.6
217.6

1,742.5

1,965.6

Inventories with a carrying amount of US$879.5 million (2013: US$1,119.4 million) have been pledged as security against certain bank 
borrowings of the Group. There were no material inventory write-offs during the period. 

153

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

21. Trade and other receivables

(US$ million) 

Trade receivables
Amounts due from related parties (Note 38)
Prepayments
Deposits with governments
Other receivables

As at 
31 March 
2014

As at 
31 March 
2013

706.0
8.5
61.2
169.9
794.3

781.3
14.0
79.0
60.0
771.7

1,739.9

1,706.0

The credit period given to customers ranges from zero to 90 days. Other receivables primarily include excise balances, customs balances, 
advances to suppliers, claims receivables and other receivables.

22. Liquid investments

(US$ million) 

Bank deposits
Other investments

As at 
31 March 
2014

2,655.3
5,913.2

As at 
31 March 
2013

2,980.9
2,800.6

8,568.5

5,781.5

Bank deposits are made for periods of between three months and one year depending on the cash requirements of the companies within the 
Group and earn interest at the respective deposit rates.

Other investments include mutual fund investments which are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value reported through the income 
statement. Liquid investments do not qualify for recognition as cash and cash equivalents due to their maturity period and risk of change in 
value of the investments.

23. Cash and cash equivalents

(US$ million) 

Cash at bank and in hand
Short-term deposits1

As at 
31 March 
2014

202.8
166.6

As at 
31 March 
2013

199.6
2,000.6

369.4

2,200.2

1  Includes US$88.8 million (2013: US$87.2 million) of cash held in short-term deposit accounts that is restricted in use as it relates to unclaimed dividends, closure costs and future redundancy 

payments.

Short-term deposits are made for periods of between one day and three months, depending on the immediate cash requirements of the Group, 
and earn interest at the respective short-term deposit rates.

24. Borrowings

(US$ million) 

Bank loans
Bonds
Other loans

Total

Borrowings are repayable as:
Within one year (shown as current liabilities)
More than one year 

Total

154

As at 
31 March 
2014

As at 
31 March 
2013

10,916.2
4,017.9
15.6

11,192.0
2,881.0
85.3

14,949.7 14,158.3

2,437.0
12,512.7

3,705.7
10,452.6

14,949.7 14,158.3

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
 
24. Borrowings continued
At 31 March 2014, the Group had available US$2,370.6 million (2013: US$3,353.0 million) of undrawn committed borrowing facilities in respect 
of which all conditions precedent had been met. The Group facilities are subject to certain financial and non-financial covenants. During the year 
ended 31 March 2014, the Group has complied with all the covenants attached to the borrowing facilities, except for certain facilities at BALCO 
and KCM, for these non-compliance the waiver letters have been received from the lender. The primary covenants which must be complied with 
include fixed charge cover ratio, net borrowing to EBITDA ratio, total net assets to borrowings ratio and net interest expense to EBITDA ratio. The 
principal loans held by Group companies at 31 March 2014 were as follows:

BALCO 
Non-convertible debentures (‘NCDs’)
BALCO issued NCDs of US$83.2 million to the Life Insurance Corporation of India at a rate of 12.25% per annum. The debentures are secured 
and have the first pari passu charge on the fixed assets of BALCO including land and buildings. The first instalment of NCD due for repayment 
was paid in November 2013. As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$55.5 million repayable in equal annual instalments in 
November 2014 and November 2015. 

During the year BALCO also issued NCDs of US$83.2 million to the Kotak Mahindra Bank, Axis Bank Limited and Wipro Limited at an interest 
rate of 8.58% per annum (Series – I) and 8.60% per annum (Series – II). The debentures are secured and have the first pari passu charge on the 
fixed assets of BALCO. The debentures are repayable in two equal instalments on November 2015 and May 2016.

Project buyers’ credit
As at 31 March 2014, BALCO has extended credit terms relating to the purchase of property, plant and equipment of US$114.5 million  
(2013: US$215.2 million) at an average interest rate of US$LIBOR plus 174 basis points. Project buyers’ credits have an average maturity  
of September 2014.

External commercial borrowings
BALCO has obtained an External Commercial Borrowing loan from the State Bank of India, London of US$200 million at an interest rate of  
six months US$LIBOR plus 260 basis points secured by first pari passu charges on all the fixed assets (excluding land) of BALCO projects both 
present and future along with secured lenders. The above loan is repayable in three equal annual instalments starting August 2016.

BALCO has also obtained an External Commercial Borrowing loan from the DBS Bank Singapore of US$24.8 million at an interest rate of six 
months US$LIBOR plus 345 basis points secured by first pari passu charges on all movable fixed assets including plant and machinery related 
1,200MW power project and 3.25 LTPA Smelter projects both present and future along with secured lenders. First instalment due for repayment 
of US$8.3 million was paid in November 2013. The balance of two equal instalments are due for repayment in November 2014 and November 
2015. As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$16.5 million.

Commercial paper
During the year, BALCO has issued commercial paper to various asset management companies for the funding of project loan repayment and 
other payable. As at 31 March 2014, BALCO had an outstanding balance of US$186.4 million (2013: US$126.9 million) bearing a coupon rate of 
10.08% per annum.

Sesa Sterlite Limited
Term loan 
Jharsuguda Aluminium has obtained a US$1,599.6 million loan from the State Bank of India (‘SBI’) at a floating interest rate of SBI bank base 
rate plus 175 basis points, secured by a first priority charge by way of a pledge of all present and future unencumbered and encumbered 
movable fixed assets for the project, a first charge by way of mortgage on all present and future immovable fixed assets for the project and 
second charge on the current assets of Aluminium division for the project. During the current year, the amount drawn under this facility was 
US$233.0 million and US$788.7 million had been repaid as per the terms of the facility.

During the year, Jharsuguda Aluminium had also obtained a US$299.5 million loan from the Axis Bank at an interest rate of 10.50% per annum, 
secured by a first charge by way of a mortgage/pledge of movable/immovable all present and future fixed assets of Aluminium division for the 
project. The same is repayable from a period of February 2017 to February 2019.

During the year, Jharsuguda 2,400MW power plant obtained a US$165.6 million loan from the Axis Bank at an interest rate of 10.50% per 
annum. The loan is secured by way of a mortgage and charge on all the immovable properties, both present and future, of Jharsuguda 
2,400MW power plant except for IPP Agricultural Land and a second charge by way of a pledge on all the movable fixed assets of the Power 
division. As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$165.6 million. The same is repayable in September 2014.

During the year, Jharsuguda 2,400MW power plant has obtained a US$66.4 million loan from the Canara Bank at an interest rate of 11.20%  
per annum. The loan is secured by way of a mortgage and charge on all the immovable properties, both present and future, of Jharsuguda 
2,400MW power plant except for IPP Agricultural Land and a second charge by way of a pledge on all the movable fixed assets of the Power 
division. As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$66.4 million. The loan is repayable in 16 quarterly instalments from the end of the 
quarter starting after the moratorium period.

Short-term loans
Iron Ore Sesa obtained a short-term borrowing facility in foreign currency in the form of pre shipment/export packing credit from various banks 
at an average rate of US$LIBOR plus 110 basis points. These loans were obtained to meet the working capital requirements of Iron Ore Sesa.  
As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$48.5 million (2013: US$167.6 million). 

155

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

24. Borrowings continued
NCDs
Jharsuguda Aluminium has issued NCDs of US$66.6 million to the Life Insurance Corporation of India at a rate of 11.5% per annum. The 
debentures are secured and have the first pari passu charge over the identified assets (including land and building) of the issuer to the extent of 
1.33 times the issued amount. Debentures are repayable in three equal annual instalments starting October 2013. First instalment due for 
repayment of US$22.2 million was paid in October 2013. The balance of two instalments are due for repayment in October 2014 and October 
2015. As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$44.4 million.

Sesa Sterlite Limited (erstwhile Sterlite Industries India Limited) Copper had issued NCDs in three trenches for US$83.2 million, US$199.7 million 
and US$416.0 million with an interest rate of 9.24%, 9.17% and 9.10% per annum respectively. Out of the total NCDs US$199.7 million are 
secured by way of a mortgage on the immovable property of Sesa Sterlite Limited situated at Sanaswadi in the state of Maharashtra and also 
by way of a pledge on the movable fixed assets of Aluminium division with a security cover of 1.25 times the face value of outstanding NCDs at 
all times during the tenure of NCDs. The balance NCDs of US$499 million are secured by way of a mortgage on the immovable property of Sesa 
Sterlite Limited situated at Sanaswadi in the state of Maharashtra and also by way of a pledge on the movable fixed assets of Jharsuguda’s 
2,400MW power plant with a security cover of 1.25 times the face value of outstanding NCDs at all time during the tenure of NCDs. Of the total 
outstanding NCDs, US$83.2 million is repayable in December 2022, US$416.0 million in April 2023 and US$199.7 million in July 2023. The NCDs 
have put and call options respectively at the end of five years from the respective date of allotment. As at 31 March 2014, the amount 
outstanding is US$698.8 million.

Sesa Sterlite Limited (erstwhile Sterlite Industries India Limited) had also issued NCDs in three tranches for US$83.2 per tranche with an interest 
rate of 9.24%, 9.40% and 9.40% per annum respectively. The NCDs are secured by way of a mortgage on the immovable property of Sesa 
Sterlite Limited situated at Sanaswadi in the state of Maharashtra and also by way of a pledge on the movable fixed assets of Jharsuguda’s 
2,400MW power plant with a security cover of 1.25 times the face value of outstanding NCDs at all times during the tenure of NCDs. Of the 
total outstanding NCDs, US$83.2 million is repayable in October 2022, US$83.2 million in November 2022 and US$83.2 million in December 
2022. The NCDs have put and call options respectively at the end of five years from the respective date of allotment of the NCDs. As at 31 
March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$249.6 million.

External commercial borrowing
Jharsuguda Aluminium has obtained an External Commercial Borrowing from the ICICI Bank, Singapore of US$100.0 million at an interest rate 
of US$LIBOR plus 240 basis points secured by negative lien undertaking on the assets of the Jharsuguda Aluminium division, both present and 
future, excluding assets already charged in favour of ICICI bank and other lenders. The repayment period is from February 2012 to August 2014. 
As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$25.0 million (2013: US$70.0 million)

Jharsuguda Aluminium has obtained and fully drawn down an External Commercial Borrowing loan from Axis Bank of US$500.0 million at an 
interest rate of US$LIBOR plus 400 basis points having a subservient charge on all present and future movable assets of Aluminium division. The 
repayment is to be made in three equal instalments starting from April 2015. As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$500 million 
(2013: US$500 million).

During the year ended 31 March 2013, a part of the intercompany borrowing from Welter Trading Limited was refinanced through Axis Bank for 
US$44.5 million at an interest rate of US$LIBOR plus 360 basis points having a subservient charge on all present and future movable assets of 
Jharsuguda Aluminium. The entire loan is repayable in July 2015. As at 31 March 2014, the amount outstanding is US$44.5 million (2013: 
US$44.5 million).

Project buyers’ credit
As at 31 March 2014, Jharsuguda Aluminium had extended credit terms relating to purchases of property, plant and equipment amounting to 
US$21.8 million (2013: US$156.3 million). These loans bear average interest at LIBOR plus 200 basis points. These are secured by all of the fixed 
assets of Jharsuguda Aluminium, immovable or movable, present and future, on a pari passu basis with other term lenders and with priority over 
other creditors. Project buyers’ credit have an average maturity of August 2014.

Commercial papers
During the year, Jharsuguda’s 2,400MW Power Plant has issued commercial paper to various asset management companies for funding project 
payable. As at 31 March 2014, the outstanding balance was US$257.1 million (2013: US$9.0 million) and the bearing coupon rate of 10.26%.

During the year Iron Ore Sesa has issued commercial papers for periods ranging up to one year at interest rates ranging between 9.70% to 
10.15%. The commercial paper is used to meet working capital requirements of the Iron Ore division and are repayable in the next financial year. 
As at 31 March 2014, the outstanding balance is US$280.2 million (2013: US$432.5 million).

Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Limited (‘TMHL’)
Term loan
In May 2013 the Group tied up a term loan facility of US$1,200 million borrowed by TMHL through a syndicate of banks with Standard 
Chartered Bank (‘SCB’) as facility agent to partly refinance US$2,664 million drawn to meet the funding requirements for the acquisition of a 
28.5% stake in Cairn India Limited in December 2011. The facility bears an interest rate of LIBOR plus 275 basis points and is due for repayment 
in four equal annual instalments starting June 2015. The facility of US$2,664 million due for repayment is US$1,350.0 million in June 2013 and 
US$1,314.4 million in December 2014 was fully prepaid in June 2013.

156

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201424. Borrowings continued
Talwandi Sabo
NCDs
Talwandi Sabo has issued NCDs of US$250.0 million to the ICICI Bank at a rate of 9.8% per annum. The debentures are secured by first pari 
passu charge on the assets of Talwandi Sabo both present and future, with an unconditional and irrevocable corporate guarantee by Sesa 
Sterlite Limited. Debentures have a tenure of 13 years repayable in 12 equal instalments 10 years after allotment. Debentures have a call option, 
five years after allotment and on non-exercise of the option; the interest rate will increase by 25 basis points.

Project buyers’ credit
As at 31 March 2014, Talwandi Sabo has accessed buyers credit in respect of purchase of capital goods of US$481.0 million (2013: US$430.0 
million) at an average rate of six months US$LIBOR plus 184 basis points. The average maturity of the project buyers’ credit is August 2014.

VGCB
NCDs
During the year, VGCB has issued NCDs of US$49.9 million to IDFC Limited at a rate of 9% per annum to refinance the existing term loan from 
Axis Bank. The debentures are secured by 1.1 times the face value of outstanding debentures, by way of a charge on the fixed assets of VGCB at 
all times during the currency of the debentures. Debentures have tenure of three years with put and call options at the end of second year.

KCM
A term loan facility of US$700 million (2013: US$700 million) has been obtained by KCM from Standard Bank. The term loan facility is made up 
of two tranches: US$300 million (‘Facility A’) and US$400 million (‘Facility B’) drawn down on various dates with the last amount drawn in 
December 2012. The loan is secured against the fixed assets of KCM. Interest is payable quarterly at three months LIBOR plus 350 basis points 
for Facility A and three months US$LIBOR plus 250 basis points for Facility B. Facility A is repayable in 11 quarterly instalments commencing 
from 31 March 2013 and Facility B is repayable in 12 quarterly instalments commencing from 31 December 2014. The repayment terms are 
being negotiated and the documentation is under progress. The principal outstanding under this loan as at 31 March 2014 is US$590.9 million 
(2013: US$672.7 million).

A general short-term banking facility incorporating multiple sub-facilities amounting to US$50 million (31 March 2013: US$50 million) was 
provided by Stanbic Bank. The facility was agreed upon on 1 June 2011. Interest is payable monthly at three months US$LIBOR plus 350 basis 
points. The facility is repayable strictly on demand. The tenure for the facility is 12 months. The amount drawn as on 31 March 2014 under this 
facility is US$49.9 million (2013: US$21.5 million). 

A general short-term banking facility incorporating multiple sub-facilities amounting to US$85 million (2013: US$85 million) was provided by 
Standard Chartered Bank Zambia. The facility was agreed upon on 26 May 2011. Interest is payable monthly at three months US$LIBOR plus 
350 basis points. The facilities are repayable strictly on demand. The tenure for the facility is 12 months. The amount drawn as at 31 March 
2014 under this facility is US$49.6 million (2013: US$49.6 million) and an Employee Liability Bond amounting to US$35 million (2013: US$35 
million). 

Vedanta Resources plc
Long-term bonds
In July 2008, the Company issued US$500 million, 8.75% bonds due January 2014, and US$750 million, 9.50% bonds due July 2018. US$500 
million bonds due in January 2014 were duly paid. 

In July 2011, Vedanta issued US$750 million, 6.75% bonds due June 2016, and US$900 million, 8.25% bonds due June 2021.

In June 2013, the Company issued US$1,200 million, 6% bonds due January 2014 and US$500 million, 7.125% bonds due in May 2023.

All the above bonds are issued in the United States of America (‘USA’) pursuant to Rule 144A of the US Securities Act of 1933 (‘Securities Act’) 
and outside of the USA in compliance with Regulations pursuant to the Securities Act. The bonds are unsecured and are currently rated BB by 
Standard & Poor’s, Ba3 by Moody’s and BB by Fitch Ratings Limited.

Term loan
In December 2010, the Company obtained a loan from the ICICI Bank for US$180.0 million repayable US$90.0 million in December 2014 and 
the balance of US$90.0 million in December 2015 and bears an interest rate of three months GBP LIBOR plus 385 basis points. 

In January 2011, the Company obtained a loan from the ICICI Bank for US$150.0 million repayable US$75.0 million in January 2016 and the 
balance of US$75 million in January 2017 and bears interest rate of three months US$LIBOR plus 389 basis points.

In July 2011, the Company obtained a loan from the ICICI Bank for US$500.0 million repayable US$250.0 million in January 2018 and the 
balance of US$250.0 million in July 2018 and bears an interest rate of three months US$LIBOR plus 390 basis points. 

In March 2012, the Company obtained a loan of US$300.0 million with the Standard Chartered Bank. The loan bears an interest rate of LIBOR 
plus 415 basis points and is due for repayment in June 2015. 

157

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

24. Borrowings continued
In December 2012, the Company obtained a syndicated loan with the State Bank of India as an agent for US$595.0 million repayable in four 
equal instalments in February 2017, August 2017, July 2018 and January 2019. The loan bears an interest rate of three months US$LIBOR plus 
440 basis points.

In March 2013, the Company entered into a three year facility agreement with the Deutsche Bank as an agent for an amount of US$185.0 
million. The loan bears an interest rate of US$LIBOR plus 315 basis points. 

In March 2013, the Company entered into two facility agreements with the ICICI bank for amounts of US$170.0 million and US$180.0 million. 
The loans bear interest rates of US$LIBOR plus 430 basis points and US$LIBOR plus 427 basis points respectively. The US$170.0 million facility is 
repayable in three annual instalments beginning April 2018 (the first instalment being 20% and the balance of two instalments being 40% 
each). The US$180.0 million facility is repayable in three equal annual instalments beginning February 2017. 

In April 2013, the Company entered into a US$150 million facility with the Bank of America Merrill Lynch out of which US$75 million was drawn 
and repaid in full during the year. An interest of US$LIBOR plus 315 basis points was payable on the loan. 

In April 2013, the Company entered into a Standby Letter of Credit agreement arranged by the Axis Bank for an amount of US$150 million at a 
LC commission of 1% per annum payable quarterly. The facility is funded by the Bank of India to the extent of US$148.5 million and bears an 
interest rate at three months US$LIBOR plus 290 basis points. The facility is repayable is two equal annual instalments starting in April 2017.

In October 2013, the Company entered into a syndicated facility agreement with the Standard Chartered Bank as facility agent for borrowing 
up to US$500 million at an interest rate of US$LIBOR plus 357 basis points repayable to the extent of 50% in October 2017 and balance in 
January 2018. 

In November 2013, the Company entered into a two-year Revolving Credit Facility arranged by The Royal Bank of Scotland and Standard 
Chartered Bank for borrowing up to US$100 million at an interest rate US$LIBOR plus 250 basis points. As at 31 March 2014, US$81 million has 
been drawn against this facility. 

In December 2013, the Company entered into a facility agreement with the Bank of India for borrowing up to US$100 million at an interest rate 
of US$LIBOR plus 357 basis points repayable to the extent of 50% in October 2017 and balance in January 2018.

Non-equity non-controlling interests
As at 31 March 2014, non-equity non-controlling interests remain of US$11.9 million, being deferred shares in KCM held by ZCCM. The deferred 
shares have no voting rights or rights to KCM’s dividends, but are entitled on a winding-up to a return of up to US$0.99 per share once all of 
KCM’s ordinary shares have received a distribution equal to their par value and any share premium created on their issue and which remains 
distributable to them.

The deferred shares are held at historic cost, being the fair value attributed to them at the time of initial acquisition of KCM in the year ended 
31 March 2005. They are classified as non-current liabilities as they are repayable only on the winding up of KCM, for an amount different than 
the pro rata share of net assets upon liquidation. The shares have been valued at US$0.99 per share, which is the maximum amount payable to 
the deferred shareholders. These deferred shares have not been discounted as the effect would not be material.

25. Movement in net debt1

(US$ million) 

At 1 April 2012
Cash flow 
Other non-cash changes3
Foreign exchange differences

At 1 April 2013

Cash flow
Other non-cash changes3
Foreign exchange differences

At 31 March 2014

Debt due within 
one year

Debt due after one year

Cash 
and cash 
equivalents

1,945.0
74.8
–
180.4

Liquid 
investments

4,940.3
941.7
158.7
(259.2)

Total cash 
and liquid 
investments

Debt carrying 
value

Debt carrying 
value

Debt-related
derivatives2

Total Net 
Debt

6,885.3
1,016.5
158.7
(78.8)

(4,151.6) (12,803.8)
44.5
339.7
226.9

(159.9)
(221.8)
133.2

5.7 (10,064.4)
901.1
266.4
281.3

–
(10.2)
–

2,200.2

5,781.5

7,981.7

(4,400.1) (12,192.7)

(4.5)

(8,615.6)

(1,701.7)
–
(129.1)

2,857.0
344.4
(414.4)

1,155.3
344.4
(543.5)

2,832.7
(2,942.3)
151.2

 (3,130.7)
2,385.7
 425.0

–
18.3
–

857.3
(193.9)
32.7

369.4

8,568.5

8,937.9

(4,358.5)  (12,512.7)

13.8  (7,919.5)

1  Net (debt)/cash being total debt reduced by cash and cash equivalents and liquid investments, as carried at fair value under IAS 32 and 39.
2  Debt related derivatives exclude derivative financial assets and liabilities relating to commodity contracts and forward foreign currency contracts.
3  Other non-cash changes comprises of exchanges losses and gains on borrowings and capital creditors, MTM of embedded derivatives, interest accretion on convertible bonds and amortisation 

of borrowing costs for which there is no cash movement. It also includes US$344.4 million (2013: US$158.7 million) of fair value movement in investments.

158

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201426. Trade and other payables 
(a) Current trade payables

(US$ million) 

Trade payables
Bills of exchange payable
Accruals and deferred income
Other trade payables

As at 
31 March 
2014

2,170.2
1,509.5
362.4
647.9

As at 
31 March 
2013

2,424.5
1,428.0
349.7
361.5

4,690.0

4,563.7

Non-interest bearing trade payables are normally settled on 60 to 90-day terms. 

Interest bearing trade payables amount to US$1,615.2 million (2013: US$1,813.9 million). Bills of exchange are interest-bearing and are normally 
payable within 180 days. Bills of exchange payable comprise of credit availed from financial institutions for direct payment to suppliers for raw 
materials purchased. The fair values of the trade and other payables are not materially different from the carrying values presented.

(b) Non-current trade payables

(US$ million) 

Other trade payables

As at 
31 March 
2014

203.3

203.3

As at 
31 March 
2013

232.2

232.2

Other trade payables primarily comprise amounts withheld as retentions, payable to suppliers of capital projects after a satisfactory completion 
of contractual commissioning period, which are payable after the completion of commissioning. The fair value of the non-current trade payables 
are not materially different from the carrying values presented.

27. Convertible bonds

(US$ million) 

A. VRJL
B. VRJL II
C. FCCB – Sesa Sterlite 

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

1,177.1
65.7
678.7

1,056.0
753.6
624.9

1,921.5

2,434.5

A. Vedanta Resource Jersey Limited (‘VRJL’) issued 5.5% US$1,250 million guaranteed convertible bonds on 13 July 2009. The bonds are first 
convertible into exchangeable redeemable preference shares to be issued by VRJL, which will then be automatically exchanged for ordinary 
shares of Vedanta Resources plc. The bondholders have the option to convert at any time from 24 August 2009 to 6 July 2016. Conversion 
option exercised before 15 August 2012 were convertible at US$36.48 per share. Conversion options exercised on or after 15 August 2012  
were convertible at US$35.58 per share.

If the notes have not been converted, they will be redeemed at the option of the Company at any time on or after 28 July 2012 subject to 
certain conditions, or be redeemed at the option of the bondholders on or after 13 July 2014.

During the year the Company received notice from bondholders amounting to US$1.7 million to exercise the option to convert the bonds into 
equity shares of Vedanta Resources plc in accordance with the provisions of the Offer circular dated 9 July 2009. During the year ended  
31 March 2014 US$1.7 million of bonds were converted into 48,850 equity shares of Vedanta Resources plc.

The net proceeds of the convertible issue have been split between the liability element and equity component, representing the fair value of  
the embedded option to convert the liability into equity of the Company, as follows:

(US$ million) 

Opening liability
Effective interest cost
Conversion of Convertible bonds
Coupon interest paid/accrued

Closing liability

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

1,056.0
191.0
(1.2)
(68.7)

1,009.7
115.2
–
(68.9)

1,177.1

1,056.0

159

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

27. Convertible bonds continued
The US$1,250 million convertible bond has a put option exercised by bond holders in July 2014. Management has assessed the possibility of 
bondholders exercising the put option as likely and accordingly the bond is now being amortised to July 2014 resulting in an additional US$70 
million interest expense being recognised in respect of accumulated amortisation in the current year.

The interest charged for the year is calculated by applying an effective interest rate of 17.3% (March 2013: 11.2%). 

The fair value of the convertible bond as at 31 March 2014 is US$1,241.7 million (31 March 2013: US$1,194.1 million). 

B. Vedanta Resource Jersey II Limited (‘VRJL – II’) issued 4.0% US$883 million guaranteed convertible bonds on 30 March 2010. The bonds are 
first convertible into exchangeable redeemable preference shares to be issued by VRJL-II, which will then be automatically exchanged for 
ordinary shares of Vedanta Resources plc. The bondholders have the option to convert at any time from 10 May 2010 to 23 March 2017. 
Conversion option exercised before 15 August 2012, were convertible at US$51.9251 per share. Conversion Options exercised on or after 
15 August 2012, are convertible at US$50.6460, as per the terms of offering circular.

If the notes have not been converted, they will be redeemed at the option of the Company at any time on or after 14 April 2013 subject to 
certain conditions, or be redeemed at the option of the bondholders on or after 29 April 2013 to 30 March 2015.

On 15 March 2013, 91.6% of bondholders exercised the put option to redeem the bonds on 29 April 2013, resulting in a repayment of 
US$809.8 million on that date. Consequently an additional charge of US$39.1 million has been recognised as part of finance cost in the 
previous year to reflect the revised amortised value of the bond liability.

At the inception, the net proceeds of the convertible issue was split between the liability element and a derivative component, representing 
the fair value of the embedded option to convert the liability into equity of the Company. The latter was not recorded within equity due to 
the existence of partial cash settlement terms within the bond which prevent the adoption of compound financial instrument accounting.

(US$ million) 

Opening liability
Effective interest cost 
Repayment of bond
Coupon interest paid/accrued

Closing liability 

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

753.6
11.9
(694.3)
(5.5)

65.7

681.6
107.3
–
(35.3)

753.6

The interest charged for the year is calculated by applying an effective interest rate of 15% (2013: 15%). 

The fair value of the convertible bond as at 31 March 2014 was US$72.5 million (31 March 2013: US$880.2 million). 

C. Sesa Sterlite Limited issued 4% US$500 million convertible senior notes (denominated in US dollars) on 29 October 2009 which are due on 
30 October 2014. The bonds are convertible into American Depository Share (‘ADS’) to be issued by Sesa Sterlite Limited. The bondholders have 
the option to convert at any time before 29 October 2014 at a conversion ratio of 42.8688 for every US$1,000 of principal which is equal to a 
conversion price of US$23.33 per ADS. Pursuant to the effectiveness of Group simplification scheme in August 2014 (Note 44) conversion rate 
has changed to 25.7213 ADS every US$1,000 principal amount of notes which is equal to a conversion price of approximately US$38.88 per 
ADS. Sesa Sterlite has the option (subject to the terms of the bond) to redeem the convertible bond at any time after 4 November 2012.

Sesa Sterlite Limited had also issued 5% US$500 million convertible bonds (denominated in US dollars) on 30 October 2009 and due 
31 October 2014. The bonds are convertible into ordinary shares of Sesa Sterlite Limited. The bondholders have the option to convert at any 
time after 10 December 2009 and before 24 October 2014 at a conversion ratio of 13837.6384 for every US$100,000 principal. Sesa Sterlite 
has the option (subject to certain conditions) to redeem the convertible bond at any time after 30 October 2012. As at 31 March 2014, 
the outstanding closing balance is US$216.8 million (2013: US$216.8 million). 

As the functional currency of Sesa Sterlite Limited is INR, the conversion of the convertible bonds (which are denominated in US dollars) would 
not result in the settlement and exchange of a fixed amount of cash in INR terms, for a fixed number of its shares respectively. Accordingly, the 
convertible bond must be separated into two component elements: a derivative component consisting of the conversion option (carried at fair 
value) and a liability component consisting of the debt element of the bonds. Further details of the accounting for such instruments are provided 
in the Group accounting policies (Note 2a).

160

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201427. Convertible bonds continued
The following table shows the movements in the Sesa Sterlite Limited bonds during the year on an aggregated basis:

(US$ million) 

Opening liability
Effective interest cost 
Coupon interest paid
Decrease in fair value of derivative component

Closing liability (including derivative component of US$nil, March 2013: US$4.7 million)

Year ended 
31 March  
2014

Year ended  
31 March  
2013

624.9
92.9
(34.4)
(4.7)

678.7

599.0
85.0
(34.4)
(24.7)

624.9

The interest charged for the year is calculated by applying an effective interest rate of 12.7% (March 2013: 12.7%) for 4% US$500 million 
convertible notes and 19.4% (March 2013: 19.4%) for 5% US$500 million convertible notes. 

The fair value of the convertible bonds as at 31 March 2014 was US$721.3 million (31 March 2013: US$708.8 million).

28. Financial instruments
The accounting classification of each category of financial instruments, and their carrying amounts, are set out below:

(US$ million) 

Financial assets
At fair value through profit or loss
– Held for trading
– Financial instruments (derivatives)
Cash and cash equivalents
Loan and receivables
– Trade and other receivables
– Other non-current assets
Available-for-sale investments
– Financial asset investments held at fair value
– Financial asset investments held at cost

Total

Financial liabilities
At fair value through profit or loss
– Financial instruments (derivatives)
Designated into fair value hedge
– Borrowings2
Financial liabilities at amortised cost
– Trade and other payables
– Borrowings3

Total

As at 
31 March
20141

As at 
31 March 
2013

 8,568.5 
 70.2 
 369.4 

5,781.5 
31.1 
2,200.2 

 1,278.1 
 132.1 

1,706.0 
113.4 

 1.7 
 –

2.4
18.2

 10,420.0 

9,852.8 

–
 (146.1)
–
 – 
 (4,772.6)

 (72.5)
–
 (4.7)
–
 (4,795.9)
 (16,871.2)  (16,588.1)

(21,789.9) (21,461.2)

1  Non-financial assets and liabilities have been excluded from the above disclosure from 2013–14.
2  Includes embedded derivative liability portion of convertible bonds US$nil million (2013: US$4.7 million).
3  Includes amortised cost liability portion of convertible bonds US$1,921.5 million (2013: US$2,429.8 million).

IFRS 7 requires additional information regarding the methodologies employed to measure the fair value of financial instruments which are 
recognised or disclosed in the accounts. These methodologies are categorised per the standard as:

Level 1 fair value measurements are those derived from quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

Level 2 fair value measurements are those derived from inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either 
directly (i.e. as prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices); and

Level 3 fair value measurements are those derived from valuation techniques that include inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on 
observable market data (unobservable inputs).

161

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

28. Financial instruments continued
Adoption of IFRS 13: Fair Value Measurement, has resulted in some minor changes to the method of valuation of financial derivatives 
instruments during the period. The credit risk arising from the non-performance by counterparties i.e. credit value adjustment (‘CVA’) and debit 
value adjustment (‘DVA’) of their contractual financial obligations have been adjusted in fair value of financial derivatives The net impact of 
CVA/DVA adjustment has resulted in a gain of US$1.4 million during the year ended 31 March 2014. Changes in the fair value of the financial 
derivative instruments attributable to the change in the credit risk, resulted in a decrease in the fair value of such instruments US$1.7 million 
during the year ended 31 March 2014.

The below table summarises the categories of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value:

 (US$ million)

Financial assets
At fair value through profit or loss
– Held for trading
– Financial instruments (derivatives)
Available-for-sale investments
– Financial asset investments held at fair value

Total

Financial liabilities
At fair value through profit or loss
– Financial instruments (derivatives)

Total

Financial assets
At fair value through profit or loss
– Held for trading
– Financial instruments (derivatives)
Available-for-sale investments
– Financial asset investments held at fair value

Total

Financial liabilities
At fair value through profit or loss
– Financial instruments (derivatives)
Designated into fair value hedge
– Borrowings

Total

As at 31 March 2014

Level 1

Level 2

8,568.5
–

1.7

8,570.2

–
70.2

–

70.2

 –

–

(146.1)

(146.1)

As at 31 March 2013

Level 1

Level 2

5,781.5
–

2.4

5,783.9

–
31.1

–

31.1

–

–

–

(72.5)

 (4.7)

 (77.2)

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the year. No financial assets or liabilities that are measured at fair value were Level 3 
fair value measurements.

The fair value of borrowings is US$16,973.8 million (2013: US$16,420.2 million). For all other financial instruments, the carrying amount is either 
the fair value, or approximates the fair value.

The fair value of financial asset investments represents the market value of the quoted investments and other traded instruments. For other 
financials assets the carrying value is considered to approximate fair value.

The fair value of financial liabilities is the market value of the traded instruments, where applicable. Otherwise fair value is calculated using a 
discounted cash flow model with market assumptions, unless the carrying value is considered to approximate fair value.

The fair value of the embedded derivative liability of convertible bond has been calculated using the Black-Scholes model with market 
assumptions.

Derivative instruments and risk management
The Group’s businesses are subject to several risks and uncertainties including financial risks. 

The Group’s documented risk management policies 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, credit risk and capital management (the latter covered in Note 33).

162

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
 
 
 
 
28. Financial instruments continued
Risks are identified through a formal risk management programme with active involvement of senior management personnel and business 
managers at both the corporate and individual subsidiary level. 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 GRMC, 
which meets every quarter to review risks as well as the progress against the planned actions. Key business decisions are discussed at the 
monthly 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.

Treasury management
Treasury management focuses on capital protection, liquidity maintenance and yield maximisation. The treasury policies are approved by the 
Board and adherence to these policies is strictly monitored at the Executive Committee meetings. Day-to-day 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 handled by a central team 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, debt, 
currency, commodity and interest rate derivatives. The Group has a strong system of internal control which enables effective monitoring of 
adherence to Group policies. The internal control measures are supplemented by regular internal audits. 

The investment portfolio at our Indian entities is independently reviewed by CRISIL Limited and our portfolio has been rated as ‘Very Good’.

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 interest rate and currency swaps and these are subject to the Group guidelines 
and policies. Interest rate swaps are taken to achieve a balance between fixed and floating rates (as described below under ‘Interest risk’) and 
currency swaps are taken primarily to convert the Group’s exposure to non-US dollar currencies to US dollar currencies.

Commodity 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. As much as possible, the Group tries to mitigate price risk through favourable 
contractual terms. The Group undertakes hedging activity in commodities to a limited degree. 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 in to 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 and with clearly laid down guidelines for their implementation by 
the subsidiaries. 

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.

Copper
The Group’s custom smelting copper operations at Tuticorin is benefited 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 TC/RCs, 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. The Group 
also benefits from the difference between the amounts paid for quantities of copper content received and recovered in the manufacturing 
process, also known as ‘free copper’. The Group hedges on a selective basis the free copper by entering into future contracts. 

The Group’s Australian mines in Tasmania supply approximately 7% to 8% of the requirement of the custom copper smelter at Tuticorin on an 
arm’s length basis. Hence, 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. 

KCM is largely an integrated copper producer and whenever hedging is done it is with an intention to protect the Group from price fluctuations in 
copper. KCM also does hedging for its custom smelting operations, where back to back hedging is used to mitigate pricing risks.

For the mining assets in Australia and Zambia, part of the production may be hedged to secure cash flows on a selective basis. 

163

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continued

28. Financial instruments continued
Aluminium
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 month of sale LME prices.

Zinc and lead
The sales prices are linked to the LME prices. The Group has some long-term volume contracts with some customers where the prices are linked 
to prevailing LME prices at the time of shipment. The Group hedges custom production of Indian operations through forward contracts or other 
instruments. 

Iron ore
The Group sells some portion of its iron ore production on quarterly price contracts and the balance on the basis of prevailing market prices. 

Provisionally priced financial instruments
On 31 March 2014, the value of net financial liabilities linked to commodities (excluding derivatives) accounted for on provisional prices was a 
liability of US$454.1 million (2013: liability of US$702.4 million). 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 1 April 2014. 

Set out below is the impact of 10% increase in LME prices on profit for the year and total equity as a result of changes in value of the Group’s 
commodity financial instruments as at 31 March 2014:

(US$ million except as stated) 

Commodity price sensitivity
Copper
Zinc
Lead

(US$ million except as stated)

Commodity price sensitivity
Copper
Zinc
Lead

Effect on 
profit of a 
10% increase 
in the LME 
31 March 
2014 
(US$ million)

Effect on 
total equity 
of a 10% 
increase in 
the LME
 31 March 
2014
 (US$ million)

Closing LME 
as at 
31 March 
2014 
US$

 6,636 
 1,981 
 2,041 

 5.3 
 1.2 
 0.5 

 5.3 
1.2
 0.5 

Effect on 
profit of a 
10% increase 
in the LME 
31 March 
2013 
(US$ million)

Effect on total 
equity of a 
10% increase 
in the LME 
31 March 
2013 
(US$ million)

Closing LME 
as at 
31 March 
2013 
US$

7,583
1,871
2,094

5.5 
11.3 
–

5.5 
11.3 
–

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. 

Further, the impact of a 10% increase in closing copper LME for provisionally priced copper concentrate purchased at Sterlite Copper’s custom 
smelting operations is US$54.2 million (2013: US$65.1 million), which is a pass through in nature and as such will not have any impact on the 
profitability. 

Financial risk and sensitivities
The Group’s Board approved financial risk policies comprise liquidity, currency, interest rate and counterparty risk. The Group does not engage in 
speculative treasury activity but seeks to manage risk and optimise 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 liquid 
financial asset investments provide liquidity both in the short-term as well as in the long-term. Anticipated future cash flows, together with 
undrawn committed facilities of US$1,526.2 million, and cash and liquid investments of US$8,937.9 million as at 31 March 2014, are expected to 
be sufficient to meet the ongoing capital investment programme and liquidity requirement of the Group in the near future.

164

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201428. Financial instruments continued
The Group has a strong balance sheet that gives sufficient headroom to raise further debt should the need arise. The Group’s current ratings 
from Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s & Fitch Ratings are BB, Ba1 and BB+ respectively (2013: BB, Ba1 and BB+ respectively). These ratings support 
the necessary financial leverage and access to debt or equity markets at competitive terms. The Group generally maintains a healthy net 
gearing ratio and retains flexibility in the financing structure to alter the ratio when the need arises (see Note 33 for further details).

The maturity profile of the Group’s financial liabilities based on the remaining period from the balance sheet date to the contractual maturity 
date is given in the table below. The figures reflect the contractual undiscounted cash obligation of the Group:

At 31 March 2014

(US$ million) 
Payment due by period1

Trade and other payables
Bank and other borrowings
Convertible bonds
Derivative liabilities

Total

1  Including interest payable. 

At 31 March 2013

(US$ million) 
Payment due by period1

Trade and other payables
Bank and other borrowings
Convertible bonds
Derivative liabilities

Total

1  Including interest payable.

<1 year

1–2 years

2–5 years

>5 years

Total

 4,644.9 
3,521.0 
2,060.3
118.7 

163.1 
2,292.6
– 
–

–
10,113.1
–
 27.3 

–
 2,972.5
–
–

 4,808.0
18,899.2
2,060.3
 146.1 

10,344.9

2,455.7 10,140.5

2,972.5 25,913.6

<1 year

1–2 years

2–5 years

>5 years

Total

4,594.6
4,604.6
814.4
44.5

232.4
2,755.2
1,771.6
–

–
5,617.9
59.2
28.0

–
4,826.5
–
–

4,827.0
17,804.2
2,645.2
72.5

10,058.1

4,759.2

5,705.1

4,826.5 25,348.9

At 31 March 2014, the Group had access to funding facilities of US$19,241.8 million of which US$2,370.6 million was not yet drawn, as set out 
below.

(US$ million) 
Funding facilities

Less than 1 year 
1–2 years
2–5 years and above

Total

Total facility

Drawn

Undrawn

6,640.7
1,487.7
11,113.4

4,358.5
1,487.7
11,025.0

2,282.2
–
88.4

19,241.8 16,871.2

2,370.6

At 31 March 2013, the Group had access to funding facilities of US$19,945.7 million of which US$3,353.0 million was not yet drawn, as set out 
below.

(US$ million) 
Funding facilities

Less than 1 year 
1–2 years
2–5 years and above

Total

Total facility

Drawn

Undrawn

7,489.8
3,737.2
8,718.7

4,400.0
3,737.2
8,455.5

3,089.8
–
263.2

19,945.7 16,592.7

3,353.0

(b) Foreign currency
The Group’s presentation currency is the US dollar. The majority of the assets are located in India and the Indian rupee is the functional currency 
for the Indian operating subsidiaries. Exposures on foreign currency loans are managed through the Group-wide hedging policy, which is 
reviewed periodically to ensure that the risk from fluctuating currency exchange rates is appropriately managed. 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. Longer exposures beyond one year are normally unhedged. However all new long-term borrowing exposures are being 
hedged. Vedanta has hedged some of its non-US dollar borrowings into US dollar borrowings by entering into cross-currency swaps.

165

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continued

28. Financial instruments continued
The carrying amount of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities in different currencies are as follows:

(US$ million) 

US$
INR
Kwacha
JPY
AUD
CAD
EURO
ZAR
NAD
Others

Total

At 31 March 2014

At 31 March 2013

Financial 
assets

Financial 
liabilities

Financial 
assets

Financial 
liabilities

2,517.9
7,697.2
–
–
5.3
0.1
105.6
28.7
30.5
34.7

15,716.0
5,597.3
128.1
0.2
13.2
–
56.4
26.5
6.1
246.1

2,009.8  14,971.3 
5,917.5 
7,670.4 
390.9 
–
12.2 
0.2 
21.6 
7.1 
–
0.2 
86.6 
103.4 
23.3 
41.5 
22.0 
19.3 
15.8
0.7

10,419.9 21,789.9

9,852.8 21,461.2

The Group’s exposure to foreign currency arises where a Group company holds monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a currency 
different to the functional currency of that entity with US dollar being the major foreign currency exposure of the Group’s main operating 
subsidiaries. Set out below is the impact of a 10% change in the US dollar on profit and equity arising as a result of the revaluation of the 
Group’s foreign currency financial instruments:

(US$ million) 

INR
Australian dollar
Euro
Kwacha

(US$ million) 

INR
Australian dollar
Euro

31 March 2014

Effect of 10% 
strengthening 
of US dollar 
on net 
earning

Effect of 10% 
strengthening 
of US dollar 
on total 
equity

 (406.5)
 (0.2)
 8.3 
(11.6)

 (367.0)
 (0.2)
 19.6 
(11.6)

Closing 
exchange 
rate

60.0998
1.0787
0.7278
6.2514

31 March 2013

Effect of 10% 
strengthening 
of US dollar 
on net 
earnings

Effect of 10% 
strengthening 
of US dollar 
on total 
equity

(415.3)
(0.2)
0.4 

(320.6)
(0.2)
0.5 

Closing 
exchange 
rate

54.3893
0.9590 
0.7820 

The sensitivities are based on financial assets and liabilities held at 31 March 2014 where balances are not denominated in the functional 
currency of the respective subsidiaries. The sensitivities do not take into account the Group’s sales and costs and the results of the sensitivities 
could change due to other factors such as changes in the value of financial assets and liabilities as a result of non-foreign exchange influenced 
factors. 

(c) Interest rate risk
At 31 March 2014, the Group’s net debt of US$7,919.5 million (2013: US$8,615.6 million net debt) comprises cash, cash equivalents and liquid 
investments of US$8,937.9 million (2013: US$7,981.7 million) offset by debt of US$16,871.2 million (2013: US$16,592.8 million) and debt 
derivative asset of US$13.8 million (2013: Liability of US$4.5 million).

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. As at 31 March 2014, 48.7% (2013: 42.6%) of the total debt was at a fixed rate and the balance 
was at a floating rate. The floating rate debt is largely linked to US dollar LIBOR. The Group also aims to minimise its average interest rates on 
borrowings by opting for a higher proportion of long-term debt to fund growth projects. 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. Additionally, the investments portfolio at our Indian entities is independently reviewed by 
CRISIL Limited, and our investment portfolio has been rated as ‘Very Good’.

166

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201428. Financial instruments continued
The exposure of the Group’s financial assets to interest rate risk is as follows:

(US$ million) 

Financial assets
Derivative assets

Total financial assets 

At 31 March 2014

At 31 March 2013

 Floating 
rate financial 
assets 

 Fixed rate 
financial 
assets 

 Equity 
investments 

5,784.9
–

3,259.7
–

5,784.9

3,259.7

1.7
–

1.7

Non-interest 
bearing 
financial 
assets 

 Floating 
rate financial 
assets 

1,303.5
70.2

4,285.6 
–

 Fixed rate 
financial 
assets

3,854.4 
–

1,373.7

4,285.6 

3,854.4 

 Equity 
investments 

20.8
–

20.8

 Non-interest 
bearing 
financial 
assets 

1,661.3 
31.1 

1,692.4

The exposure of the Group’s financial liabilities to interest rate risk is as follows:

(US$ million) 

Financial liabilities
Derivative liabilities

Total financial liabilities

At 31 March 2014

At 31 March 2013 

Floating rate 
financial 
liabilities

8,996.0
–

Fixed rate 
financial 
liabilities

9,478.4
–

Non-interest 
bearing 
financial 
liabilities

Floating rate 
financial 
liabilities

3,169.4
146.1

9,633.4
–

Fixed rate 
financial 
liabilities

8,756.7
–

Non-interest 
bearing 
financial 
liabilities

2,998.2
72.6

8,996.0

9,478.4

3,315.5

9,633.4

8,756.7

3,070.8

The weighted average interest rate on the fixed rate financial liabilities is 8.0% (2013: 7.6%) and the weighted average period for which the rate 
is fixed is 4.5 years (2013: 3.06 years).

Considering the net debt position as at 31 March 2014 and the investment in bank deposits 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 analyses below have been determined 
based on the exposure to interest rates for both derivative and non-derivative instruments at the balance sheet date. 

The below table illustrates the impact of a 0.5% to 2.0% change in interest rate of borrowings on profit and equity and represents 
management’s assessment of the possible change in interest rates.

At 31 March 2014

(US$ million)
 Change in interest rates

0.5%
1.0%
2.0%

At 31 March 2013

(US$ million) 
Change in interest rates

0.5%
1.0%
2.0%

Effect 
on profit for 
the year

41.5
83.1
166.1

Effect 
on profit for 
the year

47.7
95.4
190.7

Effect 
on total 
equity

41.5
83.1
166.1

Effect 
on total 
equity

47.7
95.4
190.7

(d) Credit risk
The Group is exposed to credit risk from trade receivables, cash and cash equivalents, liquid investments and other financial instruments. 

The Group has clearly defined policies to mitigate counterparty risks. Cash and liquid investments are held primarily in mutual funds and banks 
with good credit ratings. Defined limits are in place for exposure to individual counterparties in case of mutual fund houses and banks. 

The large majority of receivables due from third parties are secured. 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. Other than the exception of a single customer 
in our oil & gas business, no single customer accounted for 10% or more of the Group’s net sales or for any of the Group’s primary businesses 
during the year ended 31 March 2014 and no customer accounted for 10% or more of the Group’s net sales or for any of the Group’s primary 
businesses during the year ended 31 March 2013. 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 our counterparties. 

The Group’s maximum gross exposure to credit risk at 31 March 2014 is US$10,420.0 million (2013: US$9,852.8 million). 

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continued

28. Financial instruments continued
Of the year end trade and other receivable balance the following, though overdue, are expected to be realised in the normal course of business 
and hence, are not considered impaired as at 31 March 2014:

(US$ million) 

Less than 1 month
Between 1–3 months
Between 3–12 months
Greater than 12 months

Total

2014

44.7
79.8
23.0
96.6

2013

26.9
32.3
31.1
38.7

244.1

129.0

Derivative financial instruments
The fair value of all derivatives is separately recorded on the balance sheet within other financial assets (derivatives) and other financial liabilities 
(derivatives), current and non-current. In addition, the derivative component of certain convertible bonds is shown as part of the overall 
convertible bond liability (Note 27). Derivatives that are designated as hedges are classified as current or non-current depending on the maturity 
of the derivative.

Embedded derivatives
Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other contracts are treated as separate derivative contracts, when their risks and 
characteristics are not closely related to those of their host contracts. 

Cash flow hedges
The Group also enters into forward exchange and commodity price contracts for hedging highly probable forecast transactions and accounts for 
them as cash flow hedges and states them at fair value. Subsequent changes in fair value are recognised in equity until the hedged transactions 
occur, at which time the respective gains or losses are transferred to the income statement. 

The fair value of the Group’s open derivative positions at 31 March 2014, recorded within financial instruments (derivative) is as follows:

(US$ million) 

Current
Cash flow hedges
– Commodity contracts
– Forward foreign currency contracts
Fair value hedges
– Commodity contracts
– Forward foreign currency contracts
Non-qualifying hedges
– Commodity contracts
– Forward foreign currency contracts
– Interest Rate Swap
– Other (Foreign currency swap)
Hedge of net investment in foreign operations

Total

Non-current
Cash Flow hedges
– Commodity contracts
Fair Value Hedges
– Forward foreign currency contracts
– Cross currency swap
Non-qualifying hedges
– Interest rate swap
– Others (Foreign Currency Swap)

Total 

Grand Total

As at 31 March 2014

As at 31 March 2013

Liability

Asset

Liability

Asset

(0.3)
(5.1)

(0.1)
(84.1)

(1.1)
(26.6)
(1.4)
–
–

(118.7)

–

(0.1)
–

(27.3)
–

(27.4)

(146.1)

0.7
0.1

0.6
14.5

5.5
0.6
–
–
32.0

54.0

2.0

–
14.2

–
–

16.2

70.2

–
(1.0)

(0.8)
(19.4)

(0.6)
(7.4)
–
(12.0)
(3.3)

(44.5)

–

–
–

(23.6)
(4.4)

(28.0)

(72.5)

16.4
–

–
2.6

0.1
–
–
12.0
–

31.1

–

–
–

–
–

–

31.1

The majority of cash flow hedges taken out by the Group during the year comprises commodity contracts and foreign currency forward 
contracts for firm future commitments. 

The cash flows related to majority of cash flow hedges above are expected to occur during the year ended 31 March 2015 and consequently 
may impact the income statements for that year depending upon the change in the commodity prices and foreign exchange rate movements.

168

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201428. Financial instruments continued
Non-qualifying hedges
The majority of these derivatives comprise interest rate swaps and foreign currency forward contracts which are economic hedges but which do 
not fulfil the requirements for hedge accounting of IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement and also includes cross 
currency swaps.

Fair value hedges
The fair value hedges relate to foreign currency forward contracts taken to hedge currency exposure on purchase of raw materials and capital 
imports.

Hedging reserves reconciliation

(US$ million) 

At 1 April 2012
Amount recognised directly in equity
Amount transferred to income statement
Exchange difference

At 1 April 2013
Amount recognised directly in equity
Amount transferred to income statement
Exchange difference

At 31 March 2014

29. Provisions

(US$ million) 

At 1 April 2012
Charged to income statement
Unwinding of discount
Cash paid
Exchange differences

At 1 April 2013
(Released)/Charged to income statement
Unwinding of discount (Note 7)
Cash paid
Exchange differences

At 31 March 2014

Current 2014
Non-current 2014

Current 2013
Non-current 2013

Hedging 
reserves

Non-
controlling 
interests 

(55.6)
(43.6)
73.9
3.1

(22.2)
(30.3)
(0.4)
2.5

(50.4)

Restoration, 
rehabilitation 
and 
environmental

KCM Copper 
Price 
Participation

274.0
26.8
15.2
(0.8)
(11.6)

303.6
(7.1)
17.1
(3.6)
(3.5)

306.5

5.7
300.8

306.5

–
303.6

303.6

98.0
–
12.1
(10.0)
–

100.1
(8.5)
4.7
(6.9)
(0.1)

89.3

70.0
19.3

89.3

53.4
46.7

100.1

(15.1)
(18.3)
15.5
0.5

(17.4)
(20.9)
(0.2)
1.3

(37.2)

Other

33.1
3.3
0.3
(6.5)
(2.9)

27.3
6.2
–
(3.3)
(1.3)

28.9

13.0
15.9

28.9

15.0
12.3

27.3

Total

(70.7)
(61.9)
89.4
3.6

(39.6)
(51.2)
(0.6)
3.8

(87.6)

Total

405.1
30.1
27.6
(17.3)
(14.5)

431.0
(9.4)
21.8
(13.8)
(4.9)

424.7

88.7
336.0

424.7

68.4
362.6

431.0

Restoration, rehabilitation and environmental
The provisions for restoration, rehabilitation and environmental liabilities represent the Directors’ best estimate of the costs which will be 
incurred in the future to meet the Group’s obligations under existing Indian, Australian, Zambian, Namibian, South African and Irish law and the 
terms of the Group’s mining and other licences and contractual arrangements. These amounts, calculated by considering discount rates within 
the range of 2% to 9%, become payable on closure of mines and are expected to be incurred over a period of one to 15 years. Within India, the 
principal restoration and rehabilitation provisions are recorded within Cairn India where a legal obligation exists relating to the oil & gas fields, 
where costs are expected to be incurred in restoring the site of production facilities at the end of the producing life of an oil field. The Group 
recognises the full cost of site restoration as a liability when the obligation to rectify environmental damage arises.

An obligation to incur restoration, rehabilitation and environmental costs arises when environmental disturbance is caused by the development 
or ongoing production from a producing field. 

169

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

29. Provisions continued
KCM copper price participation
KCM Copper Price Participation relates to a provision in respect of a price participation agreement in Zambia which requires KCM to pay ZCCM 
an agreed annual sum when copper price exceeds specified levels and specific triggers. In the previous years the timing of the outflow was 
dependent on future copper prices as well as dividends paid.

KCM and ZCCM agreed for final settlement of Copper Price Participation liability. The total amount that to be paid was US$119.7 million to be 
settled in 16 instalments with the first instalment starting on 31 December 2012 and last instalment on 30 September 2016. During the year 
ended 31 March 2014, one instalment of US$6.9 million is paid. Total liability that remains outstanding is US$97.8 million as at 31 March 2014. 
The provision recognised has been discounted at 7.5% to take into account the expected timings of the various payments and recognised as a 
liability at US$89.3 million as at 31 March 2014. 

Other
Other includes provision on post retirement medical benefits. The expected period of utilisation is 18 years.

30. Deferred tax
The Group has accrued significant amounts of deferred tax. The majority of the deferred tax liability represents accelerated tax relief for the 
depreciation of capital expenditure and the depreciation on fair value uplifts created on acquisitions, net of losses carried forward by KCM and 
Sesa Sterlite Limited (post the reorganisation).

The amounts of deferred taxation on temporary differences, provided and not provided, in the accounts are as follows:

Provided – liabilities/(assets)

(US$ million) 

Accelerated capital allowances
Unutilised tax losses
Other temporary differences

Recognised as:
Deferred tax liability provided
Deferred tax asset recognised

Unrecognised deferred tax assets

(US$ million) 

On Unutilised tax losses and unabsorbed depreciation

As at 
31 March 
2014

6,185.0
(901.7)
(1,546.9)

As at 
31 March 
2013

5,711.8
(381.2)
(1,181.1)

3,736.4

4,149.5

4,960.1
(1,223.7)

4,996.6
(847.1)

3,736.4

4,149.5

As at 
31 March 
2014

As at 
31 March 
2013

(372.7)

(533.1) 

The above relates to the tax effect on US$750.9 million (2013: US$627.1 million) of unutilised tax losses of the Company and VRHL which have 
no expiry period, US$642 million untilised tax losses of Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Limited which is subject of Mauritius tax regime and can be 
carried forward for a period of five years and US$371.3 million of unutilised tax losses and capital allowances for Malco Energy Limited (‘MEL’) 
which is subject to the Indian tax regime. Pursuant to the Indian tax regime, unutilised tax losses expire eight years from the date the losses are 
recorded, whereas unabsorbed depreciation can be carried forward to an indefinite period. No benefit has been recognised for these items on 
the grounds that their successful application against future profits is not probable in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax asset

(US$ million) 

At 1 April
Credited to income statement
Charged directly to equity
Acquisitions
Foreign exchange differences

At 31 March 

170

As at 
31 March 
2014

As at 
31 March 
2013 

847.1
459.3
(3.3)
–
(79.4)

402.8
474.5
(0.5)
–

(29.7) 

1,223.7

847.1

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201430. Deferred tax continued
The Group has US$1,135.1 million of unutilised tax losses at KCM (2013: US$1,263.4 million) which expire in the period 2014 to 2022. The Group 
has US$1,634.2 million of unutilised tax losses at SSL which is subject to the Indian tax regime. Pursuant to the Indian tax regime, unutilised tax 
losses expire eight years from the date the losses are recorded, whereas unabsorbed depreciation can be carried forward to an indefinite period. 

These unutilised tax losses have been recognised as a deferred tax asset, as they will unwind as the accelerated capital allowances unwind, 
thereby generating economic benefits for the Company.

Deferred tax liability

 (US$ million) 

At 1 April
Charged/(credited) to income statement
Charged directly to equity
Foreign exchange differences
Prior year adjustments

At 31 March

As at 
31 March 
2014

4,996.6
33.7
2.4
(72.6)
–

As at 
31 March 
2013

5,460.2
(403.5)
4.8
(68.1)
3.2

4,960.1

4,996.6

31. Share-based payments
Employee share schemes
The Group aims to provide superior rewards for outstanding performance and a high proportion of ‘at risk’ remuneration for Executive Directors. 
Three employee share schemes were approved by shareholders on Listing. The Board has no present intention to introduce any further share 
schemes.

The Vedanta Resources Long-Term Incentive Plan (the ‘LTIP’) and Employee Share Ownership Plan (the ‘ESOP’)
The LTIP and ESOP is the primary arrangement under which share-based incentives are provided to the Executive Directors and the wider 
management group. The maximum value of shares that can be conditionally awarded to an Executive Director in a year is 100% of annual 
salary. In respect of Mr Navin Agarwal and Mr MS Mehta, salary means the aggregate of their salary payable by Vedanta and their CTC payable 
by Sesa Sterlite Limited. Mr MS Mehta superannuated on 31 March 2014. The maximum value of shares that can be awarded to members of 
the wider management group is calculated by reference to the grade average CTC and individual grade of the employee. The performance 
condition attaching to outstanding awards is as follows:
•  ESOP – measured in terms of business performance set against business plan for the financial year comprising operational deliverables, 

enabler parameters and sustainability performance specific to each company. The vesting schedule is graded over three years and varies from 
company to company with a minimum vesting of 30% triggering at either 80% or 85% business score. In another tranche, the vesting 
schedule is staggered over a period of three years from the date of grant, with 70% vesting based on the achievement of business 
performance and the remaining 30% based on continued employment with the Group till the end of third year.

•  LTIP is that the Company’s performance, measured in terms of Total Shareholder Return (‘TSR’) (being the movement in a company’s share 
price plus reinvested dividends), is compared over the performance period with the performance of the companies as defined in the scheme 
from the date of grant. The extent to which an award vests will depend on the Company’s TSR rank against a group of peer companies 
(‘Adapted Comparator Group’) at the end of the performance period and as moderated by Remuneration Committee. The vesting schedule is 
shown in the table below, with adjusted straight-line vesting in between the points shown and rounding down to the nearest whole share.

Vedanta’s TSR performance against adapted comparator group

Below median
At median
At or above upper quartile

(% of award 
vesting)

–
40
100

The performance condition is measured by taking the Company’s TSR over the four weeks immediately preceding the date of grant and over 
the four weeks immediately preceding the end of the performance period, and comparing its performance with that of the comparator group 
described above. The information to enable this calculation to be carried out on behalf of the 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 out-performed a group of companies chosen to represent the mining sector, provides a reasonable alignment of the interests of the 
Executive Directors and the wider management group with those of the shareholders.

Initial awards under the LTIP were granted on 26 February 2004 with further awards being made on 11 June 2004, 23 November 2004,  
1 February 2006, 1 February 2007, 14 November 2007, 1 February 2009, 1 August 2009, 1 January 2010, 1 April 2010, 1 July 2010, 1 October 
2010, 1 January 2011, 1 April 2011, 1 July 2011, 1 August 2011, 1 October 2011, 1 January 2012, 1 April 2012, 24 September 2012 and 1 October 
2012. The exercise price of the awards is 10 US cents per share and the performance period is one year for the February 2007 award and three 
years for all other awards, with no retesting being allowed.

171

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

31. Share-based payments continued
Initial awards under ESOP were granted on 24 September 2012 with further awards being made on 16 May 2013. The exercise price of the 
awards is 10 US cents per share and the performance period is one year.

The exercise period is six months from the date of vesting. Further details on the LTIP are available in the Remuneration Report of the Annual 
Report.

Year of grant 

Exercise date 

2010
2010
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2012
2012
2012
2012
2013

1 January 2013–1 July 2013
1 October 2013–1 April 2014
1 January 2014 –1 July 2014
1 April 2014–1 October 2014
1 July 2014–1 January 2015
1 August 2014–1 February 2015
1 October 2014–1 April 2015
1 January 2015–1 July 2015
1 April 2015–1 October 2015
24 September 2013–24 March 2016
1 October 2012–1 April 2016
16 May 2014–16 October 2016

Year of grant 

Exercise date 

2009
2010
2010
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2012
2012
2012
2012

1 August 2012–1 February 2013
1 January 2013–1 July 2013
1 October 2013–1 April 2014
1 January 2014–1 July 2014
1 April 2014–1 October 2014
1 July 2014–1 January 2015
1 August 2014–1 February 2015
1 October 2014–1 April 2015
1 January 2015–1 July 2015
1 April 2015–1 October 2015
24 September 2015–24 March 2016
1 October 2012–1 April 2016

Exercise price 
US cents per 
share 

Options 
outstanding 
1 April 
2013

Options 
granted 
during the 
year

Options 
lapsed during 
the year 

2,000
10
6,700
10
2,700
10
72,950
10
19,000
10
10 2,394,350
5,000
10
10
7,000
10
1,01,750
10 4,538,650
10
3,500
10

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
– 3,963,750

–
–
–
(5,450)
(2,500)
(208,800)
–
–
(3,400)
(393,350)
(3,500)
(209,200)

Options lapsed 
during the 
year owing to 
performance 
conditions

–
(4,020)
–
–
–
–
–
–
(550)
(1,398,186)
–
–

Options 
exercised 
during the 
year

Options 
outstanding 
at 
31 March 
2014

–
(2000)
–
(2,680)
2,700
–
67,500
–
16,500
–
– 2,185,550
5,000
–
7,000
–
97,800
–
(366,366) 2,380,748
–
–
– 3,754,550

7,153,600 3,963,750 (826,200) (1,402,756) (371,046) 8,517,348

Exercise price 
US cents per 
share 

Options 
outstanding 
1 April 
2013

Options 
granted 
during the 
year

Options 
lapsed during 
the year 

–
10 1,845,413
–
9,000
10
–
6,700
10
–
2,700
10
–
10
88,850
–
19,000
10
–
10 2,625,600
–
5,000
10
–
7,000
10
–
10
105,250
– 4,652,250
10
3,500
–
10

(39,500)
(4,000)
–
–
(15,350)
–
(211,100)
–
–
(3,500)
(113,900)
–

Options lapsed 
during the 
year owing to 
performance 
conditions

(1,130,948)
(3,000)
–
–
(550)
–
(20,150)
–
–
–
–
–

Options 
exercised 
during the 
year

Options 
outstanding 
at 
31 March 
2014

(674,695)
–
–
2,000
–
6,700
–
2,700
–
72,950
19,000
–
– 2,394,350
5,000
–
7,000
–
–
1,01,750
– 4,538,650
3,500
–

4,609,263 4,761,300 (387,350) (1,154,648) (674,965) 7,153,600

In the year ended 31 March 2014, 2,228,956 options lapsed in total and 371,406 options vested. As at 31 March 2014, 8,517,348 options 
remained outstanding and 345,230 options were exercisable at the year end. The weighted average share price for the share options exercised 
during the year was £8.5.

All share-based awards of the Group are equity-settled as defined by IFRS 2 ‘Share-based Payment’. The fair value of these awards has been 
determined at the date of grant of the award allowing for the effect of any market-based performance conditions. This fair value, adjusted by 
the Group’s estimate of the number of awards that will eventually vest as a result of non-market conditions, is expensed uniformly over the 
vesting period.

The fair values were calculated using the Stochastic valuation model with suitable modifications to allow for the specific performance conditions 
of the LTIP. 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. A progressive dividend growth policy is assumed in all fair value calculations. Expected volatility has been 
calculated using historical share prices over the period to date of grant that is commensurate with the performance period of the option. The 
share prices of the mining companies in the Adapted Comparator Group have been modelled based on historical price movements over the 
period to date of grant which is also commensurate with the performance period for the option. The history of share prices is used to determine 
the volatility and correlation of share prices for the companies in the Adapted Comparator Group and is needed for the Stochastic valuation 
model of their future TSR performance relative to the Company’s TSR performance. All options are assumed to be exercised six months after 
vesting.

172

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201431. Share-based payments continued
The assumptions used in the calculations of the charge in respect of the LTIP awards granted during the year are set out below:

Date of grant
Number of instruments
Exercise price
Share price at the date of grant
Contractual life
Expected volatility
Expected option life
Expected dividends
Risk free interest rate
Expected annual forfeitures 
Fair value per option granted

ESOP May 2013 

16 May 2013 
3,824,050
US$0.10
GBP12.72
1 year/2 years/3 years
36.6%/51.0%/48.0%
1.5 years/2.5 years/3.5 years
2.98%
0.31%
10% p.a
GBP8.2/GBP7.9/GBP7.6/GBP12.2/GBP11.9/GBP11.6

The Group recognised total expenses of US$32.8 million and US$25.5 million related to equity settled share-based payment transactions in the 
year ended 31 March 2014 and 31 March 2013 respectively.

32. Retirement benefits
The Group operates pension schemes for the majority of its employees in India, Australia, Africa and Ireland.

(a) Defined contribution schemes
Indian pension schemes
Central Recognised Provident Fund
The Central Recognised Provident Fund relates to all full-time Indian employees of the Group. The amount contributed by the Group is a 
designated percentage of 12% of basic salary less contributions made as part of the Pension Fund (see below), together with an additional 
contribution of 12% (limited to a maximum contribution of 30% in case of the Iron Ore Segment) of the salary of the employee.

The benefit is paid to the employee on their retirement or resignation from the Group.

Superannuation
Superannuation, another pension scheme applicable in India, is applicable only to executives in grade M4 and above. However, in case of Cairn 
India Group and Iron Ore Segment, the benefit is applicable to all executives. In Cairn India, it is applicable from the second year of 
employment. Certain companies hold policies with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (‘LIC’), to which they contribute a fixed amount 
relating to superannuation, and the pension annuity is met by the LIC as required, taking into consideration the contributions made. Accordingly, 
this scheme has been accounted for on a defined contribution basis and contributions are charged directly to the income statement. 

Pension Fund
The Pension Fund was established in 1995 and is managed by the Government of India. The employee makes no contribution to this fund but 
the employer makes a contribution of 8.33% of salary each month subject to a specified ceiling per employee. This must be provided for every 
permanent employee on the payroll.

At the age of superannuation, contributions cease and the individual receives a monthly payment based on the level of contributions through 
the years, and on their salary scale at the time they retire, subject to a maximum ceiling of salary level. The Government funds these payments, 
thus the Group has no additional liability beyond the contributions that it makes, regardless of whether the central fund is in surplus or deficit.

Australian Pension Scheme
The Group also operates defined contribution pension schemes in Australia. The contribution of a proportion of an employee’s salary into a 
superannuation fund is a compulsory legal requirement in Australia. The employer contributes 9.25% of the employee’s gross remuneration 
where the employee is covered by the industrial agreement and 12.25% of the basic remuneration for all other employees, into the employee’s 
fund of choice. All employees have the option to make additional voluntary contributions.

Zambian Pension Scheme
The KCM Pension Scheme is applicable to full-time permanent employees of KCM (subject to the fulfilment of certain eligibility criteria). The 
management of the scheme is vested in the trustees consisting of representatives of the employer and the members. The employer makes a 
monthly contribution to the KCM Pension Scheme and the member makes monthly contributions. 

All contributions to the KCM Pension Scheme in respect of a member cease to be payable when the member attains normal retirement age of 
55 years, or upon leaving the service of the employer, or when the member is permanently medically incapable of performing duties in the 
service of the employer. Upon such cessation of contribution on the grounds of normal retirement, or being rendered medically incapable of 
performing duties, or early voluntary retirement, the member is entitled to receive his accrued pension. The member is allowed to commute his/
her accrued pension subject to certain rules and regulations. 

173

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

32. Retirement benefits continued
The Group has no additional liability beyond the contributions that it makes. Accordingly, this scheme has been accounted for on a defined 
contribution basis and contributions are charged directly to the income statement.

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. Company 
contribution to the fund is a fixed percentage of 8% 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%.

Normal retirement age is 60 years and benefit payable is the member’s fund credit which is equal to all employer and employee contributions 
plus interest. The same applies when an employee resigns from Skorpion Zinc. The Fund provides disability cover which is equal to the member’s 
fund credit and a death cover of two times annual salary in the event of death before retirement. The latest actuarial value was performed  
31 December 2012. At that date the Fund was in credit. Current membership total is 809.

The Group has no additional liability beyond the contributions that it makes. Accordingly, this scheme has been accounted for on a defined 
contribution basis and contributions are charged directly to the income statement.

Black Mountain (Pty) Limited, South Africa Pension & Provident Funds
Black Mountain Mining (Pty) Ltd 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. 

Membership of both funds is compulsory for all permanent employees under the age of 60. 

Lisheen Mine, Ireland Pension Funds 
Lisheen Pension Plan is for all employees. Lisheen pays 5% and employees pays 5% with the option to make Additional Voluntary Contributions 
(‘AVC’s’) if desired. Executive contributions are 15% by Lisheen and a minimum of 5% by the employee with the option to make AVC’s if desired. 
Death benefit is three times salary for employees and four times salary for executives. Pension and Life Cover ceases at 65.

The Group has no additional liability beyond the contributions that it makes. Accordingly, this scheme has been accounted for on a defined 
contribution basis and contributions are charged directly to the income statement.

(b) Defined benefit schemes
India
The Gratuity schemes are defined benefit schemes which are open to all Group employees in India who have a minimum of five years of service 
with their employing company. These schemes are funded by the Group in some subsidiaries. Based on actuarial valuation, a provision is 
recognised in full for the projected obligation over and above the funds held in scheme. In case where there is no funding held by the scheme, 
full provision is recognised in the balance sheet. Under these schemes, benefits are provided based on final pensionable pay.

The assets of the schemes are held in separate funds and a full actuarial valuation of the schemes is carried out on an annual basis.

Sesa Sterlite 
The Iron ore, Aluminium and copper division of Sesa Sterlite contribute to the LIC Fund based on an actuarial valuation every year. Sesa Sterlite’s 
Gratuity scheme is accounted for on a defined benefit basis. The latest actuarial valuation was performed as at 31 March 2014 using the 
projected unit credit actuarial method. At that date the fund was in deficit.

BALCO
At BALCO, all employees who are scheduled to retire on or before 31 March 2014 are being paid by BALCO. The Gratuity scheme is accounted for 
as a defined benefit scheme for all employees scheduled to retire after 31 March 2014. A provision is recognised based on the latest actuarial 
valuation which was performed as at 31 March 2014 using the projected unit actuarial method. At that date the fund was in deficit.

HZL
HZL contributes to the LIC based on an actuarial valuation every year. HZL’s Gratuity scheme is accounted for on a defined benefit basis. The 
latest actuarial valuation was performed as at 31 March 2014 using the projected unit actuarial method. At that date the fund was in deficit.

TSPL
TSPL contributes to the LIC based on an actuarial valuation. Liabilities with regard to the Gratuity scheme are fully provided in the Balance Sheet 
and are determined by actuarial valuation as at the balance sheet date and as per gratuity regulations for TSPL. The latest actuarial valuation 
was performed as at 31 March 2014 using the projected unit actuarial method. 

Cairn 
Cairn contributes to the LIC based on an actuarial valuation every year. Cairn India Group’s Gratuity scheme is accounted for on a defined 
benefit basis. The latest actuarial valuation was performed as at 31 March 2014 using the projected unit actuarial method. At that date the 
fund was in deficit.

174

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201432. Retirement benefits continued
Zambia
Specified permanent employees of KCM are entitled to receive medical and retirement severance benefits. This comprises two months’ basic 
pay for every completed year of service with an earliest service start date of 1 July 2004. Under this scheme, benefits are provided based on  
final pensionable pay and a full actuarial valuation of the scheme is carried out on an annual basis. The accruals are not contributed to any  
fund and are in the form of provisions in KCM’s accounts.

On the death of an employee during service, a lump sum amount is paid to his or her dependants. This amount is equal to sixty months’ basic 
pay for employees who joined before 1 April 2000 and thirty months’ basic pay for employees who joined on or after 1 April 2000. For fixed 
term contract employees, the benefit payable on death is thirty months’ basic pay.

As at 31 March 2014, membership of pension schemes across SSL, BALCO, HZL, MEL, TSPL, KCM and Cairn stood at 25,286 employees  
(31 March 2013: 26,690). The deficits, principal actuarial assumptions and other aspects of these schemes are disclosed in further detail in  
notes (d) and (e) below.

(c) Pension scheme costs 
Contributions of US$62.9 million and US$nil in respect of defined benefit schemes were outstanding and prepaid respectively as at  
31 March 2014 (2013: US$67.0 million and US$nil respectively).

Contributions to all pension schemes in the year ending 31 March 2015 are expected to be around US$6.7 million.

(US$ million) 

Defined contribution pension schemes
Defined benefit pension schemes

Total expense

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

25.7
16.7

42.4

26.2
15.7

41.9

(d) Principal actuarial assumptions.
Principal actuarial assumptions used to calculate the defined benefit schemes’ liabilities are:

MEL

BALCO

Sterlite Copper1

HZL

KCM

Jharsuguda 
Aluminium1

Iron ore Sesa1

Cairn

March 
2014

March 
2013

March 
2014

March 
2013

March 
2014

March 
2013

March 
2014

March 
2013

March 
2014

March 
2013

March 
2014

March 
2013

March 
2014

March 
2013

March 
2014

March 
2013

9.0% 8.0% 9.0% 8.0% 9.0% 8.0% 9.0% 8.0% 17.9% 16.6% 9.0% 8.0% 9.0% 8.0% 9.0% 8.0%

5.0% 5.0%

3.0% 
–5.0%

3.0% 
–5.0% 6.0% 5.5% 5.5% 5.5% 5.0% 5.0% 6.0% 5.5% 7.0%

5.0% 
–7.5% 12.0% 12.0%

76

75 3,578 3,787 1,131 1,277 5,532 5,876 7,230 7,837 2,765 2,800 3,119 3,505 1,614 1,277

Particulars

Discount rate
Salary 

increases
Number of 
employees

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 table of ‘Indian Assured Lives Mortality (2006-2008)’ published by 
the Institute of Actuaries of India.

Assumptions regarding mortality for KCM are based on World Health Organisation Life Tables for 1999 applicable to Zambia which has been 
taken as a reference point. Based on this, a mortality table which is appropriate for the workers of Konkola Copper Mines plc has been derived.

(e) Balance sheet recognition
At 31 March 2014

(US$ million) 

Fair value of pension scheme assets
Present value of pension scheme 

liabilities

Deficit in pension scheme 

recognised in balance sheet

Deferred tax

Net pension liability

MEL

0.2

BALCO

–

Sterlite
Copper1

3.2

HZL

27.9

KCM

–

(0.2)

(21.2)

(3.4)

(29.4)

(35.5)

–
–

–

(21.2)
7.2

(14.0)

(0.2)
0.1

(0.1)

(1.5)
0.5

(1.0)

(35.5)
10.6

(24.9)

Jharsuguda
Aluminium1

1.4

(1.7)

(0.3)
0.1

(0.2)

Iron ore 
Sesa1

8.2

(9.8)

(1.6)
0.6

(1.0)

Cairn

4.9

Total

45.8

(7.5)

(108.7)

(2.6)
0.9

(1.7)

(62.9)
20.0

(42.9)

175

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

32. Retirement benefits continued
At 31 March 2013

(US$ million) 

Fair value of pension scheme assets
Present value of pension scheme 

liabilities

Deficit in pension scheme 

recognised in balance sheet

Deferred tax

Net pension liability

MEL

0.2

BALCO

–

Sterlite
Copper1

3.1

HZL

30.6

KCM

–

(0.2)

(23.2)

(4.0)

(35.3)

(32.4)

–
–

–

(23.2)
7.9

(15.3)

(0.9)
0.3

(0.6)

(4.7)
1.6

(3.1)

(32.4)
9.7

(22.7)

Jharsuguda
Aluminium1

1.0

(1.4)

(0.4)
 0.1

(0.3)

Iron ore 
Sesa1

7.0

(9.6)

(2.6)
0.9

(1.7)

Cairn

4.3

Total

46.2

(6.8)

(112.9)

(2.5)
0.8

(1.7)

(66.7)
21.3

(45.4)

(f) Amounts recognised in income statement in respect of defined benefit pension schemes:
At 31 March 2014

(US$ million) 

Current service cost
Net Interest cost 

Total charge to income 

statement

At 31 March 2013

(US$ million) 

Current service cost
Net Interest cost 

Total charge to income 

statement

MEL

BALCO

–
–

–

0.7
1.5

2.2

MEL

BALCO

–
–

–

0.7
1.4

2.1

Sterlite
Copper1

0.3
0.1

0.4

Sterlite
Copper1

0.4
0.1

0.5

(g) Amounts recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income:
At 31 March 2014

(US$ million) 

MEL

BALCO

Actuarial (gains)/losses on defined 

benefit obligation

Actuarial (gains)/losses on defined  

(gains)/losses on plan asset

(0.1)

–

Remeasurement of the net 

defined benefit liability (asset)

(0.1)

1.0

–

1.0

Sterlite
Copper*

(0.6)

–

(0.6)

(0.6)

(0.1)

HZL

1.3
0.3

1.6

HZL

1.5
0.2

1.7

HZL

0.5

KCM

5.6
4.5

10.1

KCM

5.1
3.6

8.7

Jharsuguda
Aluminium1

Iron ore 
Sesa1

0.2
0.1

0.3

0.6
0.1

0.7

Cairn

1.2
0.2

Total

9.9
6.8

1.4

16.7

Jharsuguda
Aluminium1

Iron ore 
Sesa1

0.2
–

0.2

0.6
0.7

1.3

Cairn

1.1
0.1

Total

9.6
6.1

1.2

15.7

KCM

Jharsuguda
Aluminium1

Iron ore 
Sesa1

Cairn

Total

2.4

–

2.4

0.4

–

0.4

1.3

0.1

5.0

(0.1)

(0.1)

(0.8)

1.2

–

4.2

At 31 March 2013

(US$ million) 

Actuarial (gains)/losses on defined  
(gains)/losses on defined benefit 
obligation

Actuarial (gains)/losses on defined  

(gains)/losses on plan asset

Remeasurement of the net 

defined benefit liability (asset)

MEL

BALCO

Sterlite
Copper1

HZL

KCM

Jharsuguda
Aluminium1

Iron ore 
Sesa1

Cairn

Total

–

–

–

2.0

–

2.0

–

–

–

3.4

(0.5)

2.9

–

–

–

0.1

–

0.1

0.7

–

0.7

0.7

6.9

(0.1)

(0.6)

0.6

6.3

1  Jharsuguda Aluminium earlier ‘VAL’, Iron ore Sesa earlier ‘Sesa Goa’ and Sterlite Copper earlier ‘Sterlite’ became divisions of Sesa Sterlite Limited post merger (Note 44).

176

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
32. Retirement benefits continued
(h) Movements in the present value of defined benefit obligations 
The movement during the year ended 31 March 2014 of the present value of the defined benefit obligation was as follows:

At 31 March 2014

(US$ million) 

At 1 April
Current service cost
Gratuity benefits paid
Interest cost of scheme liabilities
Remeasurement gains/(losses) 
Exchange difference

At 31 March

At 31 March 2013

(US$ million) 

At 1 April
Current service cost
Gratuity benefits paid
Interest cost of scheme liabilities
Remeasurement gains/(losses) 
Exchange difference

At 31 March

MEL

(0.2)
–
–
–
0.1
–

(0.1)

MEL

(0.2)
–
–
–
–
–

(0.1)

BALCO

(23.2)
(0.7)
3.1
(1.5)
(1.0)
2.1

(21.2)

BALCO

(23.5)
(0.7)
2.5
(1.9)
(2.0)
2.4

(23.2)

Sterlite
Copper1

HZL

KCM

Jharsuguda
Aluminium1

Iron ore 
Sesa1

(4.0)
(0.3)
0.1
(0.3)
0.6
0.4

(3.5)

(35.3)
(1.3)
6.2
(2.5)
(0.5)
4.0

(29.4)

(32.4)
(5.6)
9.5
(4.6)
(2.4)
–

(35.5)

(1.4)
(0.2)
0.3
(0.1)
(0.4)
0.1

(1.7)

Sterlite
Copper1

HZL

KCM

Jharsuguda
Aluminium1

(3.6)
(0.4)
0.1
(0.3)
–
0.2

(4.0)

(37.5)
(0.4)
5.8
(2.7)
(3.4)
4.0

(35.3)

(26.1)
(5.1)
3.0
(4.2)
–
–

(32.4)

(0.9)
(0.2)
0.2
(0.1)
(0.1)
(0.3)

(1.4)

(9.6)
(0.6)
1.5
(0.8)
(1.3)
1.0

(9.8)

Iron ore 
Sesa1

(0.9)
(0.2)
2.4
(1.3)
(0.17)
0.4

(9.6)

Cairn

(6.8)
(1.2)
0.3
(0.5)
(0.1)
0.8

(7.5)

Cairn

(5.3)
(1.1)
0.4
(0.4)
(0.7)
0.3

(6.8)

Total

(112.9)
(9.9)
21.0
(10.3)
(5.0)
8.4

(108.7)

Total

(106.9)
(9.6)
14.4
(10.9)
(6.9)
7.0

(112.9)

1  Jharsuguda Aluminium earlier ‘VAL’, Iron ore Sesa earlier ‘Sesa Goa’ and Sterlite copper earlier ‘Sterlite’ became divisions of Sesa Sterlite Limited post merger (Note 44).

(i) Movements in the fair value of plan assets

(US$ million) 

At 1 April
Contributions received
Benefits paid
Remeasurement gain
Interest income
Foreign exchange differences

At 31 March

(j) Five year history
Defined benefit pension plan

As at 
31 March 
2014

As at 
31 March 
2013

46.2
18.5
(18.0)
0.8
3.5
(5.2)

45.8

47.8
12.1
(14.4)
0.1
4.1
(3.5)

46.2

(US$ million) 

Experience losses arising on scheme liabilities
Difference between expected and actual return on plan assets
Fair value of pension scheme assets
Present value of pension scheme liabilities
Deficits in the schemes

As at 
31 March 
2014

(5.0)
0.8
45.8
(108.7)
(62.9)

As at 
31 March 
2013

(6.9)
0.6
46.2
(112.9)
(66.7)

As at 
31 March 
2012

(7.0)
–
47.8
(106.9)
(59.1)

As at 
31 March 
2011

As at 
31 March 
2010

(20.4)
–
39.3
(96.1)
(56.8)

(11.3)
–
32.6
(69.3)
(36.7)

177

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

32. Retirement benefits continued
(k) 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 reporting period while holding all other assumptions constant.

(US$ million) 

Discount rate
Increase by 0.50%
Decrease by 0.50%
Salary increase
Increase by 0.50%
Decrease by 0.50%

Increase/
(decrease) 
in defined 
benefit 
obligation

(4.7)
5.1

5.0
(4.6)

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.

(l) Risk analysis
The 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
The most of the Indian defined benefit plans are funded with the Life Insurance Corporation of India. The Group does not have any liberty to 
manage the fund provided to the Life Insurance Corporation of India.

The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated using a discount rate determined by reference to Government of India bonds 
for the 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.

33. Capital management
The Group’s objectives when managing capital are 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 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 requirement is met through a mixture of equity, internal accruals, convertible bonds and other long-term and 
short-term borrowings.

The Group monitors capital using a gearing ratio, being the ratio of net debt as a percentage of total capital.

(US$ million) 

Total equity
Net debt
Total capital

Gearing

As at 
31 March 
2014

As at 
31 March 
2013

17,974.8 18,869.0
8,615.6
27,484.6

7,919.5
25,894.3

30.6%

31.4%

The reduction in the gearing ratio compared against the 2013 ratio is due to an 8% decrease in the net debt of the Group set off against a 
decrease of 5% in total equity. The primary reason for the decrease in net debt is due to increased levels of liquid investments, cash and cash 
equivalents when compared to 2013.

178

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201434. Share capital

Authorised

Ordinary shares of 10 US cents each
Deferred shares of £1 each

Ordinary shares issued and fully paid

Ordinary shares of 10 US cents each
Deferred shares of £1 each

At 31 March 2014

At 31 March 2013

Number

US$ million

Number

US$ million

400,000,000
50,000

400,050,000

40.0
–

400,000,000
50,000

40.0 400,050,000

40.0
–

40.0

At 31 March 2014

At 31 March 2013

Number

US$ million

Number

US$ million

298,182,135
50,000

298,232,135

29.8
–

297,583,010
50,000

29.8 297,633,010

29.8
–

29.8

During the year ended 31 March 2014, the Company issued 550,275 shares to the employees pursuant to the LTIP scheme (2013: 674,965 
shares). 

Further during the year ended 31 March 2014, the Company issued 48,850 shares on conversion of the convertible bonds issued by Group’s 
subsidiary. 

The holders of deferred shares do not have the right to receive notice of any general meeting of the Company nor the right to attend, speak or 
vote at any such general meeting. The deferred shares have no rights to dividends and, on a winding-up or other return of capital, entitle the 
holder only to the payment of the amounts paid on such shares after repayment to the holders of ordinary shares of the nominal amount paid 
up on the ordinary shares plus the payment of £100,000 per ordinary share. Of the 50,000 deferred shares, one deferred share was issued at par 
and has been fully paid, and 49,999 deferred shares were each paid up as to one-quarter of their nominal value. 

As on 31 March 2014, 6,904,995 ordinary shares which were issued on the conversion of certain convertible bonds issued by one of the Group’s 
subsidiaries are held through a Global Depositary Receipts and carry no voting rights.

During the year ended 31 March 2014, the Company did not buy back any shares under its share buy-back programme (2013: nil). At 31 March 
2014, the total number of shares held in treasury was 24,206,816 (2013: 24,206,816).

35. Non-controlling interests (‘NCI’)
The Group consists of a parent Company, Vedanta Resources plc, incorporated in UK and a number of subsidiaries held directly and indirectly by 
the Group which operate and are incorporated around the world. Note 43 to the financial statements lists details of the material interests in the 
subsidiaries.

Non-controlling interests that are material to the Group relate to Hindustan Zinc Limited (‘HZL’), Cairn India Limited (‘Cairn’) and Sesa Sterlite 
Limited (‘SSL’)2. 

As on 31 March 2014, NCIs hold an economic interest of 62.15%, 65.74% and 41.70% respectively in HZL, Cairn and SSL. The respective NCI 
holdings in the previous year were 62.34%, 50.24% and 44.87% respectively. The changes in NCI during the current year were pursuant to the 
effectiveness of the Group simplification scheme in August 2014, details of which is set out in Note 44.

Principal place of business of HZL, Cairn and SSL is in India (Note 43).

The table below shows details of non-wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Group that have material non-controlling interests:

(US$ million) 
Particulars

Profit Attributable to NCI
Equity Attributable to NCI
Dividends paid to NCI

713.1

553.4
3,997.5 10,520.1
(190.4)

(88.9)

117.1
783.2
(198.1) 1,185.4
777.2 (1,330.4) 13,964.4 3,809.4
(59.3)3
(79.1)

(345.9)

(7.3)

Year ended 31 March 2014

Year ended 31 March 2013

HZL

Cairn

SSL2

Others1

Total

HZL

Cairn

SIIL2

SGL2

Others1

Total

1  Others consist of Investment subsidiaries of SSL and other Individual non-material subsidiaries.
2  Merged during the year ended 31 March 2014. Refer Note 44.
3  Including dividends paid by SIIL during year ended 31 March 2014, before merger.
4  For principal activities, country of incorporation and immediate holding company of the above subsidiaries refer Note 43.

646.3
7,931.7
(84.0)

119.5
1,995.3
(55.3)

(2.1)
1,357.1
(16.6)

(31.3) 1,515.6
(625.8) 14,467.7
(257.4)

(22.4)

179

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

35. Non-controlling interests (‘NCI’) continued
Summarised financial information in respect of Group’s subsidiaries that have material non-controlling interests is set out below. The 
summarised financial information below are on a 100% basis and before inter-company eliminations:

(US$ million) Particulars

Non-current assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

Net assets

Particulars

Revenue
Profit for the year
Other comprehensive income

As at 31 March 2014

As at 31 March 2013

HZL

Cairn

SSL2

HZL

Cairn

SIIL2

SGL2

 2,011.7  16,208.4 
 4,908.3 
 4,666.5 
 (718.5)
 (235.7)
 (4,395.6)
 (10.6)

 9,844.0 
 2,236.8 
 (5,952.1)
 (4,264.8)

1,907.0
4,432.1
(194.3)
(34.1)

16,667.0
3,875.0
(549.7)
(4,204.7)

3,304.7
4,108.8
(1,763.0)
(897.4)

3,908.3
356.0
(754.4)
(485.4)

 6,431.9 

 16,002.6 

 1,863.9 

6,110.7 15,787.6

4,753.1

3,024.5

Year ended 31 March 2014

Year ended 31 March 2013

HZL

Cairn

SSL2

HZL

Cairn

SIIL2

SGL2

 2,224.8 
 1,146.3 
 (3.5)

 3,092.8 
 905.8 
–

 4,682.7 
 (402.8)
 4.9 

2,300.4
1,256.3
 2.0

3,223.4
1,287.3
 –

3,472.6
284.6
 (5.2)

375.4
(2.9)
 (4.3)

The effect of changes in ownership interests in subsidiaries that did not result in a loss of control is as follows:

(US$ million)

Changes in NCI due to reorganisation scheme

5  Including changes in merged entities.

 Year ended 31 March 2014

HZL

Cairn

SSL2

 Others

 Total

(9.7)

2,372.5

(342.7)5  (2,646.9)

 (626.8)

36. Joint arrangements 
Joint operations 
The Group’s principal licence interests in oil & gas business are joint operations. The principal licence interests are as follows:

India
Block PKGM-1 (Ravva)
Block KG-ONN-2003/1
Block CB-OS/2-Exploration
Block CB/OS-2 Development and production areas
Block RJ-ON-90/1 Development and production areas
Block RJ-ON-90/1-Exploration
Block PR-OSN-2004/1
Block KG-OSN-2009/3
Block MB-DWN-2009/1

South Africa
South Africa Block 1

Sri Lanka
SL-2007-01-001

Working 
Interest 
%

22.50
49.00
60.00
40.00
70.00
100.00
35.00
100.00
100.00

60.00

100.00

37. Commitments, guarantees and contingencies
Commitments
The Group has a number of continuing operational and financial commitments in the normal course of business including:
•  Exploratory mining commitments;
•  Mining commitments arising under production sharing agreements; and
•  Completion of the construction of certain assets.

(US$ million) 

Capital commitments contracted but not provided

As at 
31 March 
2014

As at 
31 March 
2013

2,702.7

2,305.9

180

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201437. Commitments, guarantees and contingencies continued
Commitments at primarily related to the expansion projects:

HZL
KCM
Jharsuguda Aluminium
Jharsuguda 2,400MW Power Plant
BALCO
Talwandi Sabo
Sterlite Copper
Cairn

Total

As at 
31 March 
2014

446.7
6.6
621.0
31.5
73.2
141.9
236.6
1,052.3

As at 
31 March 
2013

510.7
61.3
631.6
31.8
114.4
317.6
277.2
327.7

2,609.8

2,272.3

Guarantees
Companies within the Group provide guarantees within the normal course of business. Guarantees have also been provided in respect of certain 
short-term and long-term borrowings.

A summary of the most significant guarantees is set out below:

As at 31 March 2014, US$234.9 million of guarantees were advanced to banks, suppliers etc. in the normal course of business (2013: US$217.1 
million). The Group has also entered into guarantees and bonds advanced to the customs authorities in India of US$727.2 million relating to the 
export and payment of import duties on purchases of raw material and capital goods including export obligations (2013: US$1,638.8 million).

Cairn PSC guarantee to Government
The Group has provided parent Company guarantee for the Cairn India Group’s obligation under the Production Sharing Contract (‘PSC’).

Cairn India have provided various other guarantees under the Cairn India Group’s bank facilities for the Cairn India Group’s share of minimum 
work programme commitments of US$18.9 million is outstanding as of 31 March 2014 (2013: US$22.1 million).

Export obligations
The Indian entities of the Group have export obligations of US$3,789.9 million (2013: US$4,013.4 million) 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 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 US$478.4 million (2013: US$501.7 million), reduced in 
proportion to actual exports, plus applicable interest.

Contingencies
MEL claims with Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (‘TNEB’)
TNEB is claiming US$17.0 million from MEL for an electricity self-generation levy for the period from May 1999 to June 2003. This claim has 
arisen since the commissioning of MEL’s captive power plant in 1999. The Company has sought an exemption from the application of this levy 
from the Government of Tamil Nadu. The application is under consideration. Meanwhile, the Madras High Court has in its recent Order, remitted 
back the case to the State of Tamil Nadu, to take a decision afresh on the representation for grant of tax exemption on consumption of 
electricity and directed to pass a detailed speaking order.

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 US$55.6 million. 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 
that the claim becoming an obligation of the Company is unlikely and thus no provision has been made in the financial statements. HZL has 
filed writ petitions in the High Court of Rajasthan in Jodhpur and has obtained a stay in respect of these demands. 

RICHTER: Income Tax
The Group through its subsidiaries Richter Holdings Limited (‘Richter’) and Westglobe Limited (‘Westglobe’) in 2007 acquired the entire stake in 
Finsider International Company Limited based in the United Kingdom. Finsider at that point in time held 51% stake in erstwhile Sesa Goa 
Limited. In October 2013, the Indian Tax Authorities (‘Tax Authorities’) have served an order on Richter and Westglobe for alleged failure to 
deduct withholding tax on capital gain on the indirect acquisition of shares in April 2007. The Tax Authorities held that Richter and Westglobe 
were assessed in default for non-deduction of tax while making payment for acquiring the shares in 2007. The Tax Authorities determined the 
liability for such non-deduction of tax as US$145.8 million comprising of tax and interest in case of Richter and US$97.1 million in case of 
Westglobe. Being aggrieved, Richter and Westglobe filed appeals before first appellate authority. As regards constitutional validity of 
retrospective amendment made by Finance Act 2012 for imposing obligation to deduct tax on payments made against an already concluded 
transaction, writ petitions were filed in the High Court of Karnataka and the hearing is in progress. Richter and Westglobe believe that they are 
not liable for such withholding tax and intends to defend the proceedings.

181

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continued

37. Commitments, guarantees and contingencies continued
Cairn India: Income Tax
In March 2014, 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’) UK, for acquiring shares of Cairn India Holdings Limited (‘CIHL’), as part of their 
internal reorganisation. Tax authorities have stated in the said notice that a short-term capital gain has accrued to CUHL on transfer of the 
shares of CIHL to Cairn India, in financial year 2006–2007, on which tax should have been withheld by the Company. The Company believes 
that the transaction is not liable for any withholding tax on account of retrospective amendment by insertion of Explanation 5 to Section 9(1)(i) 
of Indian Income Tax Act 1961 and that Cairn India intends to defend its position before the Tax Authorities, as well as taking appropriate legal 
course by way of filing writ petitions challenging the constitutional validity of retrospective amendment.

Sesa Sterlite 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 210MW co-generation power plant for 6mtpa expansion project, and 
filed a claim of US$296 million. SSNP also filed a petition under Section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 before the Bombay High 
Court praying 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 Jharsuguda aluminium to deposit a bank guarantee for an amount of US$29.8 million as a security, being a 
prima facie representation of the claim, until arbitration proceedings are completed. Jharsuguda Aluminium has deposited a bank guarantee of 
equivalent amount. Management is of the opinion that this claim is not valid under the terms of the contract with SSNP and it is unlikely that 
SSNP can legally sustain the claim and accordingly, no provision is considered necessary.

Miscellaneous disputes – SSL, HZL, MEL, BALCO, Cairn and Lisheen
The Group is subject to various claims and exposures which arise in the ordinary course of conducting and financing its business from the income 
tax, excise, indirect 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 total US$1,150.1 million (2013: US$1,212.7 million), of which US$30.2 million 
(2013: US$27.2 million) is included as a provision in the Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2014. 

The Group considers that it can take steps such that the risks can be mitigated and that there are no significant unprovided liabilities arising.

38. Related party transactions
The information below sets out transactions and balances between the Group and various related parties in the normal course of business for 
the year ended 31 March 2014.

Sterlite Technologies Limited (‘STL’)

(US$ million) 

Sales to STL
Reimbursement of expenses
Purchases
Net Interest Received 
Net amounts receivable at year end

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

102.3
0.3
0.0
0.2
5.4

205.2
0.1
4.7
0.3
10.5

Sterlite Technologies Limited is related by virtue of having the same controlling party as the Group, namely Volcan. Pursuant to the terms of the 
Shared Services Agreement, dated 5 December 2003, entered into by the Company and STL, the Company provides various commercial services 
in relation to STL’s businesses on an arm’s length basis and at normal commercial terms. For the year ended 31 March 2014, the commercial 
services provided to STL were performed by certain senior employees of the Group on terms set out in the Shared Services Agreement. The 
services provided to STL in this year amounted to US$0.03 million (2013: US$0.04 million). 

Vedanta Foundation 
During the year US$0.7 million was paid to the Vedanta Foundation (2013: US$1.3 million). 

Vedanta Foundation is a registered not-for-profit entity engaged in computer education and other related social and charitable activities. The 
major activity of the Vedanta Foundation is providing computer education for disadvantaged students. The Vedanta Foundation is a related 
party as it is controlled by members of the Agarwal family who control Volcan. Volcan is also the majority shareholder of Vedanta Resources plc.

Sesa Goa Community Foundation Limited
Following the acquisition of erstwhile Sea Goa Limited, the Sesa Goa Community Foundation Limited, a charitable institution, became a related 
party of the Group on the basis that key management personnel of the Group have significant influence on the Sesa Goa Community 
Foundation Limited. During the year ended 31 March 2014, US$0.8 million (2013: US$0.7 million) was paid to the Sesa Goa Community 
Foundation Limited.

182

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201438. Related party transactions continued
The Anil Agarwal Foundation
During the year, nil (2013: US$0.01 million) was received from the Anil Agarwal Foundation towards reimbursement of administrative expenses. 
The Anil Agarwal Foundation is a registered not-for-profit entity engaged in social and charitable activities. The Anil Agarwal Foundation is 
controlled by members of the Agarwal family.

Sterlite Iron and Steel Limited

(US$ million) 

Reimbursement of expenses
Loan balance receivable
Receivable at year end
Net Interest received

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

–
2.7
0.4
0.4

0.1
7.3
0.4
0.6

Sterlite Iron and Steel Limited is a related party by virtue of having the same controlling party as the Group, namely Volcan.

Vedanta Medical Research Foundation

(US$ million) 

Donation

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

0.9

4.8

Vedanta Medical Research Foundation is a related party of the Group on the basis that key management personnel of the Group exercise 
significant influence.

Volcan Investments Limited

(US$ million) 

Reimbursement of expenses
Net amount receivable at the year end
Dividend paid

Volcan Investments Limited is a related party of the Group by virtue of being an ultimate controlling party of the Group.

Public and Political Awareness Trust

(US$ million) 

Donation

Public and Political Awareness Trust is a related party by virtue of being controlled by members of Agarwal family. 

Ashrust LLP

(US$ million) 

Payments made during the year
Amount payable at year end

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

–
0.2
102.1

0.3
0.2
94.1

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

0.02

0.9

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

0.3
–

0.7
0.2

Ashurst LLP, is a related party of the Group on the basis that an Independent Director of the Group was a partner in the legal firm Ashurst LLP 
during the year ended 31 March 2014.

183

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continued

38. Related party transactions continued
Remuneration of key management personnel

(US$ million) 

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits
Share-based payments
Termination benefits

Relatives of key management personnel

(US$ million) 

Salary paid

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

13.6
0.9
3.1
0.3

17.9

17.3
0.7
4.0
0.0

22.0

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March 
2013

0.4

0.4

0.4

0.4

39. Share transactions
a. Call option – HZL 
In pursuance to the Government of India’s policy of disinvestment and the Share Purchase Agreement and a Shareholder’s Agreement (‘SHA’) 
both dated 4 April 2002 entered into with the Government of India, the Company acquired 26% equity interest in HZL. Under the terms of the 
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 29 August 2003 and acquired an additional 18.9% of HZL’s issued share capital. The Company also acquired additional 20% of 
the equity capital in HZL through an open offer, increasing its shareholding to 64.9%. The second call option provides Group the right to acquire 
the Government of India’s remaining 29.5% share in HZL. This call option is 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 via its letter dated 21 July 2009. The Government of India disputed the 
validity of call option and has refused to act upon the second call option. Consequently the Company invoked arbitration and filed a statement 
of claim. The arbitration proceedings are under progress in early stages. The next date of hearing is fixed on 13 September 2014.

b. Call option – BALCO 
The Group purchased a 51.0% holding in BALCO from the Government of India on March 2, 2001. Under the terms of the shareholder’s 
agreement (‘SHA’) for BALCO, the Group has a call option that allows it to purchase the Government of India’s remaining ownership interest in 
BALCO at any point from 2 March 2004. The Group exercised this option on 19 March 2004. However, the Government of India has contested 
the valuation and validity of the option and contended that the clauses of the SHA violate the provision of Section 111A of the (Indian) 
Companies Act, 1956 by restricting the rights of Government of India to transfer its shares and that as a result such provisions of the SHA were 
null and void. Subsequently the Group referred the matter to arbitration as provided in the SHA and the majority award of the arbitral tribunal 
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 (Indian) Companies Act, 1956 and are not enforceable. 

The Group challenged the validity of the majority award under section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 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 High Court of Delhi passed an order dated 10 August 2011 directing our application and the application by the Government of 
India to be heard together as they arise from a common arbitral award. The matter is currently pending before the High Court of Delhi and 
scheduled for final hearing on 21 August 2014.

On 9 January 2012, the Group offered to acquire the Government of India’s interests in HZL and BALCO for US$2,577.7 million and US$296.5 
million, respectively. The Group has, by way of letters dated 10 April 2012 and 6 July 2012, sought to engage with the Government of India on 
the same terms as the offer. 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 continue 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.

184

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201440. Accounting policy changes – Restatement
Consequent to amendments in new accounting standards as enumerated in Note 1, the Group has restated the statement of financial 
performance and position of the Group for the year ended 31 March 2013 so as to show the impact of applicable accounting standards for the 
Group. The impact of adoption of these new accounting standards is as follows:

(US$ million) 

Continuing operations
Revenue1
Cost of sales1

Gross profit
Other operating income
Other operating costs

Operating profit
Finance costs (net) 

Profit before taxation
Tax expense

Profit for the year

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests

Earnings per share (US cents)
Basic earnings per ordinary share
Diluted earnings per ordinary share

1  Restated as a result of reallocation of inter-company sales via an external agent.

(US$ million) 

Profit for the year
Income and expenses recognised directly in equity:
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income statement:
Actuarial gain/(losses) on post retirement defined benefit plan.
Tax effects on items recognised directly in the equity

Total (a)
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Exchange differences arising on translation of foreign operations
Other comprehensive income 
Tax effect on other comprehensive income

Total (b)

Other comprehensive income for the year (a+b)

Total comprehensive income for the year

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests

(US$ million) 

Property, plant and equipment
Inventories
Deferred tax liabilities
Other reserves
Retained earnings
Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests

As reported 
at 31 March 
2013

14,640.2
(11,352.7)

3,287.5
90.3
(865.8)

2,512.0
(806.1)

1,705.9
(40.1)

1,665.8

157.4
1,508.4

57.7
56.7

IFRIC 20

IAS 19 (R)

As restated 
at 31 March 
2013

–
11.5

11.5
–
–

11.5
–

11.5
(3.9)

7.6

2.9
4.7

 1.1
1.0

–

14,640.2
6.3 (11,334.9)

6.3
–
–

6.3
–

6.3
(2.1)

3,305.3
90.3
(865.8)

2,529.8
(806.1)

1,723.7
(46.1)

4.2

1,677.6

1.7
2.5

0.6
0.6

162.0
1,515.6

59.4
58.3

As reported 
at 31 March 
2013

1,665.8

IFRIC 20

IAS 19 (R)

As restated 
at 31 March 
2013

7.6

4.2

1,677.6

–
–

–

(707.9)
(37.5)
(6.7)

(752.1)

(752.1)

913.7

(124.3)
1,038.0

As reported 
at 31 March 
2013

33,120.6
1,966.1
(4,992.7)
791.0
3,628.0
4,398.4
14,463.0

 –
–

–

 –
–
–

–

–

 7.6

2.9
4.7

(6.3)
2.1

(4.2)

–
–
–

–

(6.3)
2.1

(4.2)

(707.9)
(37.5)
(6.7)

(752.1)

(4.2)

(756.3)

–

–
–

921.3

(121.4)
1,042.7

IFRIC 20

IAS 19 (R)

12.0
(0.5)
(3.9)
–
2.9
 2.9
4.7

–
–
–
(1.7)
1.7
–
–

As restated 
at 31 March 
2013

33,132.6
1,965.6
(4,996.6)
789.3
3,632.6
4,401.3
14,467.7

185

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

41. Konkola Copper Mines: Value Added Tax
An assessment of output tax amounting to US$600 million has been raised by the Zambia Revenue Authority (‘ZRA’) covering the years 2011, 
2012 and the first quarter of 2013. The basis of assessment is that KCM has not provided all the documentary evidence that is required under 
Rule 18 of the Value Added Tax Rules to prove an export and as a consequence, all sales of product that were zero rated in the returns have been 
standard rated by assessment. KCM has filed for judicial review of the ZRA’s decision to standard rate the export products. After legally analysing 
the interpretation of Rule 18, management believes that KCM has got a reasonably strong arguable defence in the case.

42. Subsequent events
There are no subsequent events that were identified which may have a bearing on the understanding of the financial statements.

43. List of subsidiaries
The financial statements comprise the financial statements of the following subsidiaries:

Subsidiaries

Principal activities

Direct Subsidiaries of the parent Company

The Company’s economic  
percentage holding

Immediate  
percentage holding

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

Country of 
incorporation

Immediate  
holding company

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

Vedanta Resources Holding Limited 

Holding company

100.00% 100.00% Great Britain

VR plc 100.00% 100.00%

(‘VRHL’)

Vedanta Resources Jersey Limited (‘VRJL’) Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Jersey (CI)

VR plc 100.00% 100.00%

Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited 

Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Jersey (CI)

VR plc 100.00% 100.00%

(‘VRJL-II’)

Vedanta Finance (Jersey) Limited (‘VFJL’) Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Jersey (CI)

VR plc 100.00% 100.00%

Vedanta Resources Investments 

Financing company

– 100.00% Great Britain

VR plc

– 100.00%

Limited (‘VRIL’)1

 Vedanta Jersey Investments Limited 

Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Jersey (CI)

VR plc 100.00% 100.00%

(‘VJIL’) 

Indirect Subsidiaries of the parent Company

Sesa Sterlite Limited (‘SSL’)(earlier Sesa 

Goa Limited)

Copper smelting, 
iron ore mining, 
aluminium mining, 
refining and smelting, 
power generation

58.29% 55.13%

India

Twin Star

46.20% 3.83%

Bharat Aluminium Company Limited 

Aluminium mining 

29.73% 29.59%

India

SSL3

51.00%

–

(‘BALCO’)

and smelting

Copper Mines of Tasmania Pty Limited 

Copper mining

58.29% 58.02%

Australia

MCBV 100.00% 100.00%

(‘CMT’)

Fujairah Gold

Gold & silver 
processing

58.29% 58.02%

Hindustan Zinc Limited (‘HZL’)

Zinc and mining and 

37.85% 37.66%

smelting

UAE

India

CMT

98.00% 100.00%

SSL3

64.92%

–

The Madras Aluminium Company Limited4 Energy generation

–

94.81%

India

Twin Star

–

78.80%

Monte Cello BV (‘MCBV’)

Holding company

58.29% 58.02% Netherlands

SSL3 100.00%

–

Monte Cello Corporation NV (‘MCNV’) Holding company

100.00% 100.00% Netherlands

Twin Star 100.00% 100.00%

Konkola Copper Mines PLC (‘KCM’)

Copper mining and 

79.42% 79.42%

Zambia

VRHL

79.42% 79.42%

smelting

Sterlite Energy Limited (‘SEL’)4

Energy generation

–

58.02%

Sesa Resources Limited (‘SRL’)

Iron ore

Sesa Mining Corporation Private Limited  Iron ore

58.29% 55.13%

58.29% 55.13%

Sterlite Industries (India) Limited (‘Sterlite’)4 Copper smelting

–

58.02%

Sterlite Infra Limited (‘SIL’)

Non-trading

58.29% 58.02%

India

India

India

India

India

Sterlite

– 100.00%

SSL 100.00% 100.00%

SRL 100.00% 100.00%

Twin Star

–

54.64%

SSL3 100.00%

–

Thalanga Copper Mines Pty Limited (‘TCM’)Copper mining

58.29% 58.02%

Australia

MCBV 100.00% 100.00%

Twin Star Holdings Limited (‘Twin Star’) Holding company

100.00% 100.00%

Mauritius

VRHL 100.00% 100.00%

MALCO Energy Limited (‘MEL’) (earlier 

Power generation5

100.00% 87.61%

India

SSL3 100.00%

–

Vedanta Aluminium Limited)

186

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
 
 
 
 
43. List of Subsidiaries continued

Subsidiaries

Principal activities

The Company’s economic  
percentage holding

Immediate  
percentage holding

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

Country of 
incorporation

Immediate  
holding company

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

Richter Holding Limited (‘Richter’)

Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Cyprus

VRCL 100.00% 100.00%

Westglobe Limited

Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Mauritius

Richter 100.00% 100.00%

Finsider International Company Limited Financing company

100.00% 100.00% Great Britain

Richter

60.00% 60.00%

Vedanta Resources Finance Limited (‘VRFL’) Financing company

100.00% 100.00% Great Britain

VRHL 100.00% 100.00%

Vedanta Resources Cyprus Limited (‘VRCL’)Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Welter Trading Limited (‘Welter’)

Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Cyprus

Cyprus

VRFL 100.00% 100.00%

VRCL 100.00% 100.00%

Lakomasko B.V.

Financing company

58.29% 58.02% Netherlands

THL Zinc Ventures Limited

Financing company

58.29% 58.02%

Twin Star Energy Holdings Limited (‘TEHL’) Holding company

100.00% 100.00%

THL Zinc Limited

Financing company

58.29% 58.02%

Sterlite (USA) Inc.

Financing company

58.29% 58.02%

Talwandi Sabo Power Limited

Energy generation

58.29% 58.02%

Mauritius

Mauritius

Mauritius

USA

India

THL Zinc 
Holding B.V.

100.00% 100.00%

SIL 100.00% 100.00%

BFM 100.00%

–

THL Zinc 
Ventures Ltd

100.00% 100.00%

SSL3 100.00%

SSL3 100.00%

–

–

Konkola Resources plc

Holding company

100.00% 100.00% Great Britain

VRHL 100.00% 100.00%

Twin Star Mauritius Holdings Limited 

Holding company

58.29% 100.00%

Mauritius

TEHL 100.00% 100.00%

(‘TMHL’)

THL Zinc Namibia Holdings (Pty) 

Limited (‘VNHL’)

Mining and 
exploration

58.29% 58.02%

Namibia

THL Zinc Ltd 100.00% 100.00%

Skorpion Zinc (Pty) Limited (‘SZPL’)

Acquisition of 

58.29% 58.02%

Namibia

VNHL 100.00% 100.00%

immovable and 
movable properties

Namzinc (Pty) Limited (‘SZ’)

Mining

Skorpion Mining Company (Pty) Limited 

Mining

58.29% 58.02%

58.29% 58.02%

Namibia

Namibia

SZPL  100.00% 100.00%

SZPL 100.00% 100.00%

(‘NZ’)

Amica Guesthouse (Pty) Ltd

Accommodation and 
catering services

58.29% 58.02%

Namibia

SZPL 100.00% 100.00%

Rosh Pinah Healthcare (Pty) Ltd

Leasing out of 

40.22% 40.03%

Namibia

SZPL

69.00% 69.00%

medical equipment 
and building and 
conducting services 
related thereto

Black Mountain Mining (Pty) Ltd 

Mining

43.13% 42.94% South Africa

THL Zinc Ltd

74.00% 74.00%

THL Zinc Holding BV 

Financing company

58.29% 58.02% Netherlands

Sterlite Infra 100.00% 100.00%

Lisheen Mine Partnership

Mining partnership firm 58.29% 58.02%

Ireland

VLML

50.00% 50.00%

Pecvest 17 Proprietary Ltd.

Investment company

58.29% 58.02% South Africa

THL Zinc Ltd 100.00% 100.00%

Vedanta Lisheen Holdings Limited (‘VLHL’) Investment company

58.29% 58.02%

Ireland

Vedanta Exploration Ireland Limited2

Exploration company

58.29%

–

Vedanta Lisheen Mining Limited (‘VLML’) Mining

Killoran Lisheen Mining Limited

Mining

58.29% 58.02%

58.29% 58.02%

Killoran Lisheen Finance Limited

Investment company

58.29% 58.02%

Lisheen Milling Limited

Manufacturing

58.29% 58.02%

Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited Infrastructure

43.63% 42.94%

Paradip Multi Cargo Berth Private Limited Infrastructure

43.13% 42.94%

Sterlite Ports Limited (‘SPL’) 

Investment company

58.29% 58.02%

Maritime Ventures Private Limited2

Infrastructure

58.29%

–

Ireland

Ireland

Ireland

Ireland

Ireland

India

India

India

India

THL Zinc 
Holding BV

100.00% 100.00%

VLHL 100.00%

–

VLHL 100.00% 100.00%

VLHL 100.00% 100.00%

VLHL 100.00% 100.00%

VLHL 100.00% 100.00%

SSL3

SSL3

74.00%

74.00%

SSL3 100.00%

SPL 100.00%

–

–

–

–

187

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

43. List of Subsidiaries continued

Subsidiaries

Principal activities

The Company’s economic  
percentage holding

Immediate  
percentage holding

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

Country of 
incorporation

Immediate  
holding company

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

Sterlite Infraventures Limited 

Investment company

58.29% 58.02%

India

SSL3 100.00%

–

Bloom Fountain Limited (‘BFM’)

Investment company

58.29% 55.13%

Mauritius

SSL 100.00% 100.00%

Western Clusters Limited

Mining company

58.29% 55.13%

Liberia

BFM 100.00% 100.00%

Ekaterina Limited (‘EKTL’)4

Investment company

– 100.00%

Mauritius

Twin Star

–

64.54%

Goa Energy Limited

Energy generation

58.29% 55.13%

India

SSL 100.00% 100.00%

Sesa Sterlite Mauritius Holdings Limited2 Financing company

100.00%

–

Mauritius

VRHL 100.00%

Vedanta Finance UK Limited2

Financing company

100.00%

– Great Britain

Welter 100.00%

–

–

Valliant (Jersey) Limited

Financing company

100.00% 100.00%

Jersey (CI)

VRJL–II 100.00% 100.00%

Sesa Sterlite US LLC1

Investment company

Sesa Sterlite US Corporation1

Investment company

Cairn India Limited

Oil & gas exploration, 
development and 
production

– 100.00%

– 100.00%

34.30% 49.76%

USA

USA

India

VRHL

VRHL

– 100.00%

– 100.00%

TMHL

38.73% 38.68%

Cairn India Holdings Limited

Investment company

34.30% 49.76%

Jersey

Cairn Energy Holdings Limited

Investment company

34.30% 49.76%

Scotland

34.30% 49.76%

Scotland

34.30% 49.76%

Scotland

34.30% 49.76%

Scotland

–

49.76%

Scotland

34.30% 49.76%

Scotland

34.30% 49.76%

Scotland

34.30% 49.76%

Scotland

–

49.76%

Scotland

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

– 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

– 100.00%

Cairn India 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

Cairn India 
Holdings 
Limited

34.30% 49.76% Netherlands Cairn Energy 
Cambay 
Holding B.V.

34.30% 49.76% Netherlands Cairn Energy 
India West 
Holding B.V. 

34.30% 49.76% Netherlands Cairn Energy 
Gujarat 
Holding B.V

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

Cairn Energy Hydrocarbons Ltd

Cairn Exploration (No. 7) Limited

Cairn Exploration (No. 6) Limited

Cairn Exploration (No. 4) Limited1

Cairn Exploration (No. 2) Limited

Cairn Energy Gujarat Block 1 Limited

Cairn Energy Discovery Limited

Cairn Petroleum India Limited1

Cairn Energy Cambay B.V.

Cairn Energy India West B.V. 

Cairn Energy Gujarat B.V.

188

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201443. List of Subsidiaries continued

Subsidiaries

Principal activities

Cairn Energy India Holdings B.V.1

Holding company

Cairn Energy Group Holdings B.V.1

Holding company

Cairn Energy Netherlands Holdings B.V.  Holding company

Cairn Energy Gujarat Holding B.V.1

Holding company

Cairn Energy India West Holding B.V.1 

Holding company

Cairn Energy Cambay Holding B.V.1

Holding company

The Company’s economic  
percentage holding

Immediate  
percentage holding

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

Country of 
incorporation

Immediate  
holding company

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

–

–

49.76% Netherlands Cairn Energy 
Group 
Holdings B.V. 

49.76% Netherlands Cairn Energy 
Netherlands 
Holdings B.V. 

– 100.00%

– 100.00%

34.30% 49.76% Netherlands Cairn Energy 
Holdings 
Limited

100.00% 100.00%

–

–

–

49.76% Netherlands

49.76% Netherlands

49.76% Netherlands

Cairn 
Energy India 
Holdings B.V. 

Cairn 
Energy India 
Holdings B.V. 

Cairn 
Energy India 
Holdings B.V. 

– 100.00%

– 100.00%

– 100.00%

Cairn Energy Australia Pty Limited

Holding company

34.30% 49.76%

Australia Cairn Energy 
Group 
Holdings B.V. 

100.00% 100.00%

49.76% British Virgin 
Island

Cairn Energy 
Australia Pty 
Limited

CEH Australia Limited1

Holding company

Cairn Energy Asia Pty Limited1

Holding company

Cairn Energy Investments Australia Pty 

Holding company

Limited1

Wessington Investments Pty Limited1

Holding company

Sydney Oil Company Pty Limited1

Holding company

–

–

–

–

–

49.76%

49.76%

49.76%

49.76%

Cairn Energy India Pty Limited

Exploration & 
production

34.30% 49.76%

CEH Australia Pty Limited

Holding company

34.30% 49.76%

CIG Mauritius Holdings Private Limited

Investment company

34.30% 49.76%

Mauritius 

Cairn India 
Limited

100.00% 100.00%

CIG Mauritius Private Limited

Investment company

34.30% 49.76%

Cairn Lanka (Pvt) Ltd

Cairn South Africa Pty Limited

Exploration & 
production

Exploration & 
production

34.30% 49.76%

34.30% 49.76% South Africa

Cairn Energy 
Hydrocarbons 
Limited

Australia Cairn Energy 
Australia Pty 
Limited

Australia Cairn Energy 
Asia Pty 
Limited

Australia Cairn Energy 
Asia Pty 
Limited

Australia Cairn Energy 
Investments 
Australia Pty 
Limited

Australia Cairn Energy 
Australia Pty 
Limited

Australia CEH Australia 
Limited

Mauritius  CIG Mauritius 
Holding 
Private Limited

Sri Lanka CIG Mauritius 
Pvt Ltd

– 100.00%

–

68.18%

– 100.00%

– 100.00%

– 100.00%

100.00%

–

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

100.00% 100.00%

189

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

43. List of Subsidiaries continued
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 

 Dissolved during the year.
 Incorporated during the year.
 Acquired by SSL during the year pursuant to the Scheme of Amalgamation (earlier subsidiaries of Sterlite) (Note 44).
 Merged with SSL during the year pursuant to the Scheme of Amalgamation (Note 44).
 Pursuant to the Scheme of Amalgamation.

The Group 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.

44. Group restructuring:
Pursuant of the Scheme of Amalgamation (the ‘Scheme’) sanctioned by the Indian and Mauritius Courts, Group’s subsidiary companies viz. 
Sterlite Energy Limited, Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, Aluminium Business of Vedanta Aluminium Limited, Ekaterina Limited and Residual 
business of Madras Aluminium Company Limited merged with Sesa Goa Limited (‘SGL’) (A subsidiary of the Group).Bloom Fountain Limited, a 
subsidiary of Sesa Goa Limited acquired a 38.7% stake in Cairn India Limited (‘Cairn’). Consequent to this, Cairn became a subsidiary of SGL. By 
way of a slump sale agreement dated 19 August 2013 between Vedanta Aluminium Limited (‘VAL’) and SSL, the power business consisting of 
1,215MW thermal power facility situated at Jharsuguda and 300MW co-generation facility (90MW operational and 210 MW under 
development) at Lanjigarh, was transferred on a going concern basis at its carrying value.

Subsequently, the name of SGL has been changed to Sesa Sterlite Limited (‘SSL’).

These transactions are within subsidiaries of the Company and will not have any acquisition accounting impact other than change in the 
economic shareholding percentage. The simplification exercise has resulted in simplifying the structure, cross holding and aligning the debt with 
cash flow and change in economic holding percentage mainly in VAL and Cairn. VAL’s effective holding has changed from 87.6% to 58.3% 
whereas Cairn’s reduced from 49.8% to 34.3%. 

45. Ultimate controlling party
At 31 March 2014, the ultimate controlling party of the Group was Volcan, which is controlled by persons related to the Executive Chairman,  
Mr Anil Agarwal. Volcan is incorporated in the Bahamas, and does not produce Group accounts.

190

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201446. Company Balance Sheet

(US$ million) 

Non-current assets
Tangible fixed assets 
Investments in subsidiaries
Investment in preference shares of subsidiaries
Financial asset investment
Derivative asset

Current assets
Debtors due within one year
Debtors due after one year
Current asset investments
Cash at bank and in hand

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Trade and other creditors
External borrowings
Loan from subsidiary
Derivative liability 

Net current assets

Total assets less current liabilities

Creditors: amounts falling due after one year
Loan from subsidiary
External borrowings

Net assets

Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
Share premium 
Share-based payment reserve
Convertible bond reserve
Other reserves
Treasury shares
Retained earnings 

Equity shareholders’ funds

Note

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

48
49
50
51

52
52
53

54
54
54
54

0.7
1,061.8
1.7
0.1
14.1

0.6
1,061.8
178.9
0.1
–

1,078.4

1,241.4

1,225.7
5,405.2
14.8
0.5

788.8
4,899.3
89.5
0.6

6,646.2

5,778.2

(98.5)
(89.7)
(1,249.5)
–

(68.9)
(499.3)
(1,059.9)
(4.5)

(1,437.7)

(1,632.7)

5,208.5

4,145.5

6,286.9

5,386.9

55
55

(339.8)
(5,483.6)

(1,069.8)
(3,481.4)

(5,823.4)

(4,551.2)

463.5

835.7

56
56
56
56
56
56
56

56

29.8
198.5
46.9
80.1
(2.2)
(490.6)
601.0

29.8
196.8
29.0
302.9
(2.2)
(490.6)
770.0

463.5

835.7

Financial Statements of Vedanta Resources plc, registration number 4740415 were approved by the Board of Directors on 14 May 2014 and 
signed on behalf by 

Tom Albanese
Chief Executive Officer

191

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

47. Company accounting policies
The Vedanta Resources plc (‘the Company’) balance sheet and related notes have been prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally 
Accepted Accounting Principles and UK company law (‘UK GAAP’). The financial information has been prepared on an historical cost basis 
except preference shares which are stated at fair value. 

As permitted by section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, the profit and loss account of the Company is not presented as part of these financial 
statements. The loss after tax for the period of the Company amounted to US$128.3 million (2013: loss of US$15.7 million)

These financial statements are presented in US dollars being the functional currency of the Company.

Significant accounting policies
Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in subsidiaries represent equity holdings in subsidiaries except preference shares, valued at cost less any provision for impairment. 
Investments are reviewed for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. 

Investment in preference shares of subsidiaries
Investments in preference shares of subsidiaries are stated at fair value. The fair value is represented by the face value of the preference shares 
as the investments are redeemable at any time for their face value at the option of the Company.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents in the balance sheet comprise cash at bank and in hand, short-term deposits with banks and short-term highly liquid 
investments that are readily convertible into cash which are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value and are held for the purpose of 
meeting short-term cash commitments.

Financial asset investments
Financial asset investments are classified as available for sale under FRS 26 and are initially recorded at cost and then remeasured at subsequent 
reporting dates to fair value. Unrealised gains and losses on financial asset investments are recognised directly in equity. On disposal or 
impairment of the investments, the gains and losses in equity are recycled to the income statement. 

Currency translation
Transactions in currencies other than the functional currency of the Company, being US dollars, are translated into US dollars at the spot 
exchange rates ruling at the date of transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in other currencies at the balance sheet date are 
translated into US dollars at year end exchange rates, or at a contractual rate if applicable. 

Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and provision for impairment. 

Deferred taxation
Deferred taxation is provided in full on all timing differences that result in an obligation at the balance sheet date to pay more tax, or a right to 
pay less tax, at a future date, subject to the recoverability of deferred tax assets. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not discounted.

Share-based payments
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 with market-related vesting conditions are determined by an external valuer and the fair value at the grant date is expensed on a 
straight-line 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. No adjustment is made to the fair value after the vesting date even if the awards are forfeited or not exercised. Amounts 
recharged to subsidiaries in respect of awards granted to employees of subsidiaries are recognised as intercompany debtors until repaid. 

Borrowings
Interest bearing loans are recorded at the net proceeds received i.e. net of direct transaction costs. Finance charges, including premiums payable 
on settlement or redemption and direct issue costs, are accounted for on accruals basis and charged to the profit and loss account using the 
effective interest method and are added to the carrying amount of the instrument to the extent that they are not settled in the period in which 
they arise.

192

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201447. Company accounting policies continued
Convertible bonds
The Convertible bonds issued by VRJL and VRJL-II (Note 54) are accounted for as a compound instrument. The gross proceeds (net of issue 
costs) were lent to the Company by VRJL and VRJL-II. The equity component has been recognised in a separate reserve of the Company and is 
not subsequently remeasured. The recognition of the equity component by the company acts to reduce the payable to VRJL and VRJL-II which 
arises once the gross proceeds are borrowed. The liability component is held at amortised cost. The interest expensed on the liability component 
is calculated by applying an effective interest rate. The difference between interest expensed and interest paid is added to the carrying amount 
of the liability component.

The bonds are first convertible into preference shares of the issuer having a principal value of US$100,000 per preference share, which are 
exchanged immediately for ordinary shares of the Company.

Financial instruments
The Company has elected to take the exemption provided in paragraph 2D of FRS 29 in respect of these parent Company financial statements. 
Full disclosures are provided in Note 28 to the financial statements of the Group for the period ended 31 March 2014.

Derivative financial instruments
Derivative financial instruments are initially recorded at their fair value on the date of the derivative transaction and are remeasured at their fair 
value at subsequent balance sheet dates. 

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in the profit and loss account. The 
hedged item is recorded at fair value and any gain or loss is recorded in the profit and loss account and is offset by the gain or loss from the 
change in the fair value of the derivative.

Derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are marked to market at the balance sheet date and gains or losses 
are recognised in the profit and loss account immediately.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge 
accounting. Any cumulative gain or loss on the hedging instrument recognised in equity is kept in equity until the forecast transaction occurs. If 
a hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net cumulative gain or loss recognised in equity is transferred to net profit or loss for the 
year.

Cash flow statement
The Company’s individual financial statements are outside the scope of FRS 1 Cash Flow Statements because the Company prepares publicly 
available Group financial statements, which include a consolidated cash flow statement. Accordingly, the Company does not present an 
individual company cash flow statement.

Related party disclosures
The Company’s individual financial statements are exempt from the requirements of FRS 8 Related Party Disclosures because its individual 
financial statements are presented together with its Group financial statements. Accordingly, the individual financial statements do not include 
related party disclosures.

Financial guarantees 
Guarantees issued by the Company on behalf of other Group companies are designated as ‘Insurance Contracts’. Accordingly these are shown 
as contingent liabilities. (Note 57)

Debtors
Debtors are stated at their nominal value as reduced by appropriate allowance for estimated irrecoverable amounts. An allowance for 
impairment for debtors is made where there is an indication of a reduction in the recoverability of the carrying value of the debtor.

Creditors
Creditors are stated at their nominal value.

193

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

48. Company tangible fixed assets

(US$ million)

Cost
At 1 April 2012
Additions

At 31 March 2013
Additions

At 31 March 2014

Accumulated depreciation
At 1 April 2012
Charge for the period
At 31 March 2013
Charge for the period

At 31 March 2014

Net book value
At 1 April 2012

At 31 March 2013

At 31 March 2014

49. Investments in subsidiaries

(US$ million)

Cost
At 1 April 2012
At 1 April 2013

At 31 March 2014

1.5
0.4

1.9
0.4

2.3

1.2
0.1
1.3
0.3

1.6

0.3

0.6

0.7

1,061.8
1,061.8

1,061.8

At 31 March 2014, the Company held 144,538,524 shares in VRHL (2013: 144,538,524 shares), being 100% of VRHL’s issued equity share 
capital. The Company also held one deferred share in VRHL (2013: one). At 31 March 2014, the Company held two shares in Vedanta Finance 
Jersey Limited (‘VFJL’) (2013: two), two shares in Vedanta Resources Jersey Limited (‘VRJL’) (2013: two), two shares in Vedanta Resources Jersey 
II Limited (‘VRJL-II’) (2013: two), two shares in Vedanta Jersey Investment Limited (‘VJIL’) (2013: two), being 100% of its issued equity share 
capital.

VRHL is an intermediary holding company incorporated in England and Wales. VFJL, VRJL and VRJL-II are companies established to raise funds 
for the Vedanta Group via convertible bond issue and are incorporated in Jersey. A detailed list of subsidiary investments held indirectly by the 
Company can be seen in Note 43.

50. Investment in preference shares of subsidiaries

(US$ million)

Fair value
At 1 April 2013
Additions
Disposal

At 31 March 2014

As 1 April 2012
Additions

At 31 March 2013

178.9
1.7
(178.9)

1.7

178.9
–

178.9

As at 31 March 2014, the Company held 1,700,000 preference shares in Vedanta Resources Jersey Limited (‘VRJL’) (2013: 178,916,000 in 
Vedanta Finance Jersey Limited (‘VFJL’))

The investment in preference shares of VFJL was fully redeemed during the year.

During the year VRJL received notice from the bondholders to exercise the option to convert US$1,700,000 bonds into equity shares of the 
Company in accordance with the provisions of the Offer circular and accordingly 17 preference shares with a nominal value of US$100,000 each 
were issued by VRJL to the Company.

194

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201451. Financial asset investment

(US$ million)

Fair value
At 1 April 2013
Fair value movement 

At 31 March 2014

At 1 April 2012
Fair value movement 

At 31 March 2013

0.1
–

0.1

0.3
 (0.2)

0.1

The investment relates to an equity investment of shares in Victoria Gold Corporation. At 31 March 2014, the investment in Victoria Gold 
Corporation was revalued and no gain/loss (2013: loss of US$0.2 million) was recognised in equity.

52. Company debtors

(US$ million) 

Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings
Prepayments and accrued income 
Other taxes

Total

Debtors due within one year
Debtors due after one year

Total

31 March 
2014

6,626.3
4.4
0.2

31 March 
2013

5,680.0
7.8
0.3

6,630.9

5,688.1

1,225.7
5,405.2

788.8
4,899.3

6,630.9

5,688.1

Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings
At 31 March 2014, the Company had loans due from VRHL of US$1,214.6 million (2013: US$1,501.9 million) which represented the funds being 
loaned to other Group companies for funding the subsidiaries. Out of the total loan, US$579.3 million bears interest at US$ six months LIBOR 
plus 350 basis points, US$500 million at 5.8%, US$31.2 million at 5.9%, US$42.0 million at 9.7%, and US$62.2 million at US$Libor plus 367 
basis points. 

During the year the Company entered into a Deed of Assignment with Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited (‘VRJL-II’), wherein the Company 
assigned all the rights to the VRJL-II:
•  US$1,625 million facility agreement dated 28 November 2011 between the Company as Lender and TMHL as borrower
•  US$750 million facility agreement dated 7 July 2011 between the Company as Lender and TMHL as borrower
•  US$750 million facility agreement dated 7 July 2011 between the Company as Lender and TMHL as borrower
•  US$100 million facility agreement dated 7 July 2011 between the Company as Lender and TMHL as borrower were assigned to the VRJ2

At 31 March 2014, the Company had loan of US$4,732.6 million from Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited. Out of the total loan US$119.2 
million bears interest at US$Libor plus 352 basis points, US$1,578.5 million at 7.45%, US$1,200 million at 6.50%, US$284.8 million at 7.18%, 
US$50 million at 3.15%, US$750 million at 7.25% and US$750 million at 8.75%.

In addition to the loans, the Company was owed US$634.7 million of accrued interest from VRHL and Vedanta Resources Jersey II Limited 
(2013: US$523.6 million).

53. Company current asset investments

(US$ million) 

Bank term deposits

Total

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

14.8

14.8

89.5

89.5

195

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Notes to the Financial Statements

continued

54. Company creditors: amounts falling due within one year

(US$ million)

Accruals 
External borrowings
Loan from subsidiary
Derivative liability

Total

31 March 
2014

(98.5)
(89.7)
(1,249.5)
–

31 March 
2013

(68.9)
(499.3)
(1,060.0)
(4.5)

(1,437.7)

(1,632.7)

The external borrowings as at 31 March 2014 represent a loan from ICICI of US$180 million, of which US$90 million is repayable in December 
2014. Loans from subsidiaries include a loan of US$1,192.8 million from VRJL relating to its issue of US$1,250 million convertible bonds (bond 
issued in July 2009). VRJL believes that bondholders will exercise the above put option in July 2014 and accordingly the above loan has been 
classified from amounts falling due after one year to amounts falling due within one year. During 2014, interest was charged at the effective 
interest rate of 17.32%.

55. Company creditors: amounts falling due after one year

(US$ million) 

Loan from subsidiary
External borrowings

Total

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

(339.8)
(5,483.6)

(1,069.8)
(3,481.4)

(5,823.4)

(4,551.2)

Loan from subsidiaries include a loan of US$59.8 million due to Richter Holdings Limited, US$280.0 million due to Vedanta Finance UK Limited.

In December 2010, the Company obtained a loan from ICICI Bank for US$180.0 million repayable US$90.0 million in December 2014 and the 
balance US$90.0 million in December 2015 and bears an interest rate of three month GBP LIBOR plus 385 basis points. 

In July 2011, Vedanta issued US$750 million, 6.75% bonds due June 2016, and US$900 million, 8.25% bonds due June 2021. As at 31 March 
2014, the outstanding amount under this facility is US$1,650.0 million.

In December 2012, the Company obtained a syndicated loan with the State Bank of India as an agent for US$595.0 million repayable in four 
equal instalments in February 2017, August 2017, July 2018 and January 2019. The loan bears an interest rate of three months US$LIBOR plus 
440 basis points.

In March 2013, the Company entered into a three year facility agreement with the Deutsche Bank as an agent for borrowing up to US$185.0 
million. The loan bears an interest rate of US$LIBOR plus 315 basis points. As at 31 March 2014, the outstanding amount under this facility is 
US$185.0 million.

In April 2013, the Company entered into a Standby Letter of Credit agreement arranged by the Axis Bank for an amount of US$150 million at a 
commission of 1% per annum payable quarterly. The facility is funded by the Bank of India to the extent of US$148.5 million and bears an 
interest rate at three months US$LIBOR plus 290 basis points. The facility is repayable is two equal annual instalments starting April 2017. As at 
31 March 2014, the outstanding amount under this facility is US$148.5 million.

In June 2013, the Company issued US$1,200 million, 6.00% bonds due January 2019, and US$500 million, 7.125% bonds due May 2023.

In December 2013, the Company entered into a facility agreement with the Bank of India for borrowing up to US$100 million at an interest rate 
of US$LIBOR plus 357 basis points repayable to the extent of 50% in October 2017 and balance in January 2018. As at 31 March 2014, the 
outstanding amount under this facility is US$100 million.

Of the US$1,250 million non-convertible bond issued during 2008, US$500 million has been repaid in January 2014 and the remaining US$750 
million is due for repayment in July 2018. 

196

Financial StatementsVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY201456. Company reconciliation of movement in equity shareholders’ funds

Equity shareholders’ funds at 1 April 2013
Loss for the year
Dividends paid
Exercise of LTIP awards
Recognition of share-based payments
Exercise of conversion of bonds 
Convertible bond reserve transfer
Repayment of convertible bond

Equity shareholders’ funds at  

31 March 2014

Share 
capital

Share 
premium 

Share-based 
payment 
reserve

Convertible 
bond reserve

29.8
–
–
0.0
–
0.0
–
–

196.8
–
–
–
–
1.7
–
–

29.0
–
–
 (15.0)
32.9
–
–
–

302.9
–
–
–
–
 (0.5)
(110.7)
(111.6)

Treasury 
shares 

(490.6)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Retained 
earnings

770.0
( 128.3)
(162.5)
15.0
–
–
110.7

(3.9) 

Other 
reserves

(2.2)
–
–
–
–
–
–

Total

835.7
(128.3)
(162.5)
–
32.9
1.2
–
(115.5)

29.8

198.5

46.9

80.1

(490.6)

601.0

(2.2)

463.5

57. Company contingent liabilities
a. The Company has guaranteed US$1,250 million convertible bonds issued by VRJL (2013: US$: 1,250 million), of the above US$1.7 million has 

been converted during the year. See Note 27 to the financial statements for further details on the convertible bonds. 

b.  The Company has given a corporate guarantee to Jharsuguda Aluminium, for an amount of US$3,506.5 million up to 31 March 2014. 

c.  The Company has given a corporate guarantee to Konkola Copper Mines for an amount of US$185 million up to 31 March 2014.

d.  The Company has guaranteed US$883 million convertible bonds issued by VRJL-II (2013: US$883 million). During the year US$809.8 million 
was repaid to the bondholders on exercise of put option. See Note 27 to the financial statements for further details on the convertible bonds. 

e. The Company has guaranteed US$170 million for a loan facility entered by Valliant Jersey Limited with ICICI bank and US$180 million for a 

loan facility entered by Vedanta Finance Jersey Limited with ICICI bank.

f.  The Company has guaranteed US$500 million for a syndicated facility agreement entered by Welter Trading Limited with Standard Chartered 

Bank as facility agent. 

g. The Company has provided a guarantee for the Cairn India Group’s obligation under the Production Sharing Contract (‘PSC’).

58. Company share-based payment
The Company had certain LTIP awards outstanding as at 31 March 2014. See Note 31 to the financial statements for further details on these 
share-based payments.

197

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Five year summary

Summary consolidated income statement

(US$ million except as stated)

Revenue

EBITDA
Depreciation and amortisation
Special items

Operating profit
Share in consolidated profit of associate

Profit before interest and taxation
Net finance (costs)/investment revenues

Profit before taxation
Net tax expense

Profit after taxation
Non-controlling interests

Profit attributable to equity shareholders in parent
Dividends

Retained (loss)/profit

Basic earnings per share (US cents per share)
On profit for the financial year
On underlying profit for the financial year
Dividend per share (US cents per share)

1  Restated.

US$ million except as stated)

Goodwill
Intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Financial asset investments

Total fixed assets

Stocks
Debtors
Cash and liquid investments

Total

Short-term borrowings
Other current liabilities

Total current liabilities

Net current assets

Total assets less current liabilities

Long-term borrowings
Other long-term liabilities
Provisions and deferred tax assets

Total long-term liabilities
Equity non-controlling interests
Non-equity non-controlling interest

Year ended 
31 March 
2014

Year ended 
31 March
20131

Year ended 
31 March 
2012

Year ended 
31 March 
2011

Year ended 
31 March 
2010

12,945.0 14,640.2 14,005.3 11,427.2

7,930.5

4,491.2
(2,203.1)
(138.0)

2,150.1
–

2,150.1
(1,032.0)

1,118.1
(128.7)

4,908.9
(2,337.2)
(41.9)

2,529.8
–

2,529.8
(806.1)

1,723.7
(46.1)

4,026.3
(1,408.4)
(230.2)

2,387.7
92.2

2,479.9
(734.5)

1,745.4
(516.7)

3,566.8
(869.0)
(163.5)

2,534.3
–

2,534.3
149.0

2,683.3
(649.5)

989.4
(1,185.4)

1,677.6
(1,515.6)

1,228.7
(1,168.9)

2,033.8
(1,263.0)

2,295.9
(563.0)
(67.3)

1,665.6
–

1,665.6
176.0

1,841.6
(330.4)

1,511.2
(908.9)

602.3
(117.9)

(196.0)
(162.5)

(358.5)

162.0
(153.5)

59.8
(144.0)

770.8
(129.9)

8.5

(84.2)

640.9

484.4

(71.7)
 34.2
61.0

59.4
134.8
58.0

21.9
142.2
55.0

283.2
262.8
52.5

219.6
199.2
45.0

31 March 
2014

31 March 
2013

31 March 
2012

31 March 
2011

31 March 
2010

16.6
108.6
31,043.5
1.7

16.6
–
33,132.6
2.4

16.6
–
34,141.8
209.6

12.2
162.1
17,189.5
304.2

12.2
–
14,326.7
201.2

31,170.4 33,151.6 34,368.0 17,668.0 14,540.1

1,742.5
1,739.9
8,937.9

1,965.6
1,706.0
7,981.7

1,704.1
1,795.9
6,885.3

1,924.6
1,328.6
7,777.0

1,260.6
1,019.9
7,239.4

12,420.3 11,653.3 10,385.3 11,030.2

9,519.9

(4,358.5)
(4,931.5)

(4,400.1)
(4,810.2)

(4,151.6)
(3,995.6)

(3,045.1)
(3,485.0)

(1,012.6)
(2,670.3)

(9,290.0)

(9,210.3)

(8,147.2)

(6,530.1)

(3,682.9)

3,541.9

2,639.8

2,415.0

4,515.4

5,837.0

36,084.3 36,751.4 37,330.9 22,168.1 20,377.1

(12,512.7) (12,192.7) (12,803.8)
(196.1)
(6,356.0)

(260.2)
(5,417.6)

(230.7)
(5,354.2)

(18,097.6) (17,870.5) (18,899.5)
(13,964.4) (14,467.7) (13,768.9)
(11.9)

(11.9)

(11.9)

(6,707.4)
(247.3)
(1,706.4)

(8,656.1)
(8,030.1)
(11.9)

(7,161.0)
(351.1)
(1,413.5)

(8,925.6)
(6,729.1)
(11.9)

Net assets attributable to the equity holders of the parent

4,010.4

4,401.3

4,650.6

5,648.9

4,710.5

198

Additional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Turnover

(US$ million)

Zinc

  India
  International

Oil & gas
Iron ore
Copper

  India/Australia
  Zambia

Aluminium
Power
Other

Group

EBITDA

(US$ million)

Zinc

  India
  International

Oil & gas
Iron ore
Copper

  India/Australia
  Zambia

Aluminium
Power
Other

Group

EBITDA margin

(%)

Zinc

  India
  International

Oil & gas
Iron ore
Copper

  India/Australia
  Zambia

Aluminium
Power

Group

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2,856.8

3,060.5

3,206.8

2,378.4

1,672.2

2,195.4
661.4

3,092.8
267.1
4,676.2

3,404.8
1,271.4

2,263.3
797.2

3,223.4
442.5
5,733.9

3,991.1
1,742.8

2,316.1
890.7

882.5
1,690.9
5,915.0

4,205.2
1,709.8

2,159.5
218.9

–
1,979.5
5,253.2

3,428.2
1,825.0

1,672.2
–

–
1,222.5
3,825.2

2,741.4
1,083.8

1,785.4
621.7
(355.0)

1,837.8
669.0
(326.9)

1,873.5
458.3
(21.7)

1,779.6
124.0
(87.5)

1,110.4
115.6
(15.4)

12,945.0 14,640.2  14,005.3 11,427.2

7,930.5

2014

2013

2012

2011

1,358.4

1,477.0

1,610.8

1,320.9

1,145.0
213.4

2,347.0
(24.2)
354.2

197.9
156.3

287.3
168.4
0.1

1,182.5
294.5

2,440.3
84.9
476.4

219.1
257.3

202.6
228.5
(0.8)

1,244.8
366.0

713.0
721.4
685.9

298.0
387.9

182.5
122.0
(9.3)

1,219.6
101.3

–
1,174.1
681.4

241.5
439.9

352.7
43.9
(6.2)

2010

993.2

993.2
–

–
673.0
317.7

165.9
151.8

258.3
57.0
(3.3)

4,491.2

4,908.9

4,026.3

3,566.8

2,295.9

2014

47.5

52.2
32.3

75.9
(9.1)
7.6

5.8
12.3

16.1
27.2

34.7

2013

48.3

52.2
36.9

75.7
19.2
8.3

5.5
14.8

11.0
34.2

33.5

2012

50.2

53.7
41.1

80.8
42.7
11.6

7.1
22.7

9.7
26.6

28.7

2011

55.5

56.5
46.3

–
59.3
13.0

7.0
24.1

19.8
35.4

31.2

2010

59.4

59.4
–

–
55.1
8.3

6.1
14.1

23.3
49.3

29.0

199

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Five year summary continued

Production

(000’s mt)

Aluminium

  BALCO
  Jharsuguda Aluminium

Copper

  Sterlite Copper
  KCM

Iron Ore (WMT)

Zinc total

  HZL
  Skorpion

Zinc and Lead MIC

  BMM
  Lisheen

Oil & gas – Gross production
Oil & gas – Working interest

Cash costs of production

(US cents/lb)

Aluminium – BALCO Plant – II
BALCO (Other than Alumina)
Aluminium – Jharsuguda Aluminium
Copper – Sterlite Copper
Copper – KCM
Zinc including Royalty – HZL
Zinc without Royalty – HZL
Zinc COP – Skorpion
Zinc COP – BMM
Zinc COP – Lisheen
Oil & gas (Opex) (US$/boe)

Cash costs of production in INR

(INR/mt)

Aluminium – BALCO Plant – II
BALCO (Other than Alumina)
Aluminium – Jharsuguda Aluminium
Copper – Sterlite Copper
Zinc including royalty
Zinc without royalty

Capital expenditure

(US$ million)

Sustaining
Expansion

Total capital expenditure

200

2014

794

252
542

471

294
177

2013

774

247
527

569

353
216

2012

675

246
430

526

326
200

2011

641

255
386

521

304
217

2010

533

268
264

507

334
173

1,577

4,212

15,598

21,075

21,412

874

749
125

239

67
172

79.8
50.1

2014

80.8
49.1
72.6
9.7
238.4
44.7
37.4
56.7
52.2
50.1
4.1

822

677
145

280

87
193

74.9
46.7

2013

86.2
52.8
84.8
8.7
255.1
44.5
37.1
54.5
54.3
42.8
3.5

904

759
145

299

85
214

20.5
12.1

2012

87.2
53.3
99.2
0.0
236.8
45.8
37.8
57.8
63.8
41.9
4.4

721

712
50

44

17
27

–
–

2011

80.9
45.7
82.6
4.0
197.5
44.9
36.7
52.7
59.4
41.6
–

578

578
–

–

–
–

–
–

2010

69.6
39.1
77.2
10.4
184.4
38.6
31.7
–
–
–
–

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

107,728
65,430
96,893
12,994
59,561
49,834

103,526
63,433
101,779
10,704
53,446
44,550

92,143
56,344
104,892
(3)
48,423
40,003

81,299
45,898
88,396
4,062
45,119
36,831

72,717
40,868
80,710
10,872
40,319
33,073

2014

321.6
1,424.7

2013

2012

2011

2010

390.2
2,019.1

386.2
2,398.2

239.5
2,471.3

184.4
3,679.6

1,746.3

2,409.3

2,784.4

2,710.8

3,864.0

Additional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Net cash/(debt)

(US$ million)

Zinc

  India
  International

Oil & gas
Iron Ore
Copper

  India/Australia
  Zambia

Aluminium
Power
Other

Group

Gearing

(%)

Gearing

Group free cash flow

(US$ million)

Group free cash flow

Capital employed

(US$ million)

Capital employed

ROCE

(%)

ROCE

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

4,513.6

4,243.7

3,779.9

3,779.5

2,628.6

4,344.6
169.0

3,911.9
(512.1)
(882.3)

(159.0)
(723.3)

4,044.8
198.9

3,102.4
(744.2)
(1,244.0)

(492.8)
(751.2)

3,573.8
206.1

1,552.7
(563.6)
(588.0)

120.6
(708.6)

3,403.4
376.1

–
1,983.2
146.3

396.0
(249.7)

(3,204.0)
(737.0)
(11,009.5)

(4,311.9)
(696.2)
(8,965.4)

(4082.4)
(1,156.3)
(9,006.7)

(3,145.3)
(433.5)
(4,300.4)

2,628.6
–

–
96.6
996.9

1,288.2
(291.3)

(2,320.2)
(270.8)
(2,078.3)

(7,919.5)

(8,615.6) (10,064.4)

(1,970.3)

(947.2)

2014

30.6

2013

31.4

2012

35.3

2011

12.6

2010

7.5

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

3,016.6

3,534.7

2,533.8

2,347.3

1,814.3

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

25,894.3

27,476.7

28,483.9

15,649.3

12,373.6

2014

14.9

2013

17.5

2012

11.3

2011

21.0

2010

19.9

201

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Production and reserves summary

Copper
Copper production summary

Facility

Tuticorin

Silvassa

KCM

Product

Copper anode
Sulphuric acid
Phosphoric acid
Copper cathode
Copper rods
Copper cathode
Copper rods
Copper cathode

Copper mining summary

Mine

Mt Lyell (CMT)
Konkola (KCM)

Type of mine

Underground
Underground

Copper mine resource and reserve summary

Mine

Mt Lyell (CMT)
Konkola (KCM)

Type of mine

Underground
Underground

Resources are additional to Reserves.

Aluminium, alumina and bauxite
Aluminium production summary

Company

BALCO
Jharsuguda Aluminium

Alumina production summary

Company

Jharsuguda Aluminium

Bauxite production summary

Company

BALCO – Mainpat
BALCO – Bodai Daldali

202

Year ended 
31 March 
2014 
mt

Year ended 
31 March 
2013 
mt

301,120
349,845
835,798 1,060,519
119,793
116,340
191,858
151,592
52,404
22,105
161,296
142,842
119,451
100,948
216,059
177,018

Ore mined

Copper concentrate

Copper in concentrate

31 March 
2014 
mt

31 March 
2013 
mt

31 March 
2014 
mt

31 March 
2013 
mt

1,739,223 2,519,464
6,203,219 8,987,373

73,341
258,762

107,212
345,804

31 March 
2014 
mt

17,839
72,428

31 March 
2013 
mt

26,047
106,462

Resources

Reserves

Measured 
and indicated 
million 
mt

20.1
144.9

Copper 
grade 
%

1.12
1.87

Inferred 
million 
mt

21.2
327.3

Proved and 
probable 
reserves 
million 
mt

–
280.7

Copper 
grade 
%

0.94
3.05

Copper 
grade 
%

– 
1.27

Year ended 
31 March 
2014 
mt

252,035
542,252

Year ended 
31 March 
2013 
mt

246,940
527,037

Year ended 
31 March 
2014 
mt

Year ended 
31 March 
2013 
mt

524,060

527,052

Year ended 
31 March 
2014 
mt

–
472,155

Year ended 
31 March 
2013 
mt

230,137
705,870

Additional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Bauxite mine resource and reserve summary

Mine

BALCO
Mainpat
Bodai Daldali

Total BALCO

Jharsuguda Aluminium
Kolli Hills and Yercaud

Resources are additional to reserves.

Zinc and lead
Zinc and lead production summary

Company

HZL
Zinc
Lead

Zinc and lead mining summary
a) Metal mined and metal concentrate

Mine

Rampura Agucha1
Rajpura Dariba
Sindesar Khurd
Zawar

Total

Type of mine

Open cut
Underground
Underground
Underground

1  Includes development ore mt from Kayar.

b) Metal in concentrate (‘MIC’) 

Mine

Rampura Agucha
Rajpura Dariba
Sindesar Khurd
Zawar

Total

Type of mine

Open cut
Underground
Underground
Underground

Resources

Measured 
and indicated 
million 
mt

Aluminium 
grade 
%

Inferred 
million 
mt

Aluminium 
grade 
%

Reserves

Proved and 
probable 
reserves 
million 
mt

Aluminium 
grade
 %

5.6
4.7

10.3

48.2
48.7

48.3

0.8

44.0

0.6
0.3

0.9

–

48.0
49.2

48.4

–

3.1
2.8

5.9

0.2

46.3
46.1

46.2

43.0

Year ended 
31 March 
2014 
mt

Year ended 
31 March 
2013 
mt

749,167
122,596

676,921
118,316

Ore mined

Zinc concentrate

Lead concentrate

Bulk concentrate

31 March 
2014 
mt

31 March 
2013
 mt

31 March 
2014 
mt

31 March 
2013
 mt

610,242

5,953,138 6,177,679 1,290,377 1,334,412
39,860
101,480
–

554,354
1,723,253 1,585,150
304,680
1,003,600

52,212
105,562
–

31 March 
2014 
mt

96,136
12,241
60,128
–

31 March 
2013
 mt

110,441
9,164
60,164
–

31 March 
2014 
mt

–
–
–
68,432

31 March 
2013
 mt

–
13,623
–
21,745

9,290,233 8,621,863 1,448,151 1,475,752 168,505

179,769

68,432

35,368

Zinc concentrate

Lead concentrate

31 March 
2014 
mt

664,072
26,457
53,633
25,734

31 March 
2013
 mt

677,299
25,183
52,602
9,587

31 March 
2014 
mt

58,001
5,291
31,254
15,274

31 March 
2013
 mt

65,631
5,102
32,156
2,640

769,896

764,671

109,820

105,529

203

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Production and reserves summary

continued

Zinc and lead mine resource and reserve summary
Zinc India

Resources

Reserves

Measured 
and indicated 
million 
mt

Zinc grade 
%

Lead grade 
%

17.4
21.3
23.9
1.1
30.8
5.4

99.9

15.3
6.9
5.0
13.1
5.1
4.5

7.3

2.1
2.4
1.8
2.0
3.2
1.6

2.4

Inferred 
million 
mt

34.5
22.9
44.7
0.4
47.9
10.9

161.2

Zinc grade 
%

Lead grade 
%

9.9
7.1
4.9
7.0
3.7
3.8

5.8

2.2
1.9
2.3
1.0
2.2
1.7

2.2

Proved and 
probable 
reserves 
million 
mt

57.5
10.0
9.9
6.2
20.4
–

103.9

Zinc grade 
%

Lead grade 
%

13.7
6.4
3.8
10.4
4.6
–

10.1

1.8
1.6
1.9
1.5
2.6
–

2.0

Resources

Reserves

Measured 
and indicated 
million 
mt

Zinc grade 
%

Lead grade 
%

3.6

10.20

14.2
–
18.8
154.6
1.9

2.62
–
0.56
6.23
14.23

–

2.51
–
2.88
0.53
2.42

Inferred 
million 
mt

–

–
–
24.4
59.7
0.2

Zinc grade 
%

Lead grade 
%

–

–
–
0.53
7.80
14.45

–

–
–
2.61
0.22
2.22

Proved and 
probable 
reserves 
million 
mt

3.5

11.7
–
2.8
–
1.7

Zinc grade 
%

Lead grade 
%

9.13

2.63
–
0.50
–
10.46

–

2.84
–
2.53
–
1.72

Mine

Rampura Agucha
Rajpura Dariba
Zawar
Kayad
Sindesar Khurd
Bamnia Kalan

Total

Resources are additional to reserves.

Zinc International

Mine

Skorpion
BMM
– Deeps
– Broken Hill
– Swartberg
– Gamsberg
Lisheen

Resources are additional to reserves.

Zinc production summary

Company

Skorpion

Zinc and lead mining summary:
a) Metal mined and metal concentrate

Type of mine

Underground
Underground
Underground

Underground

Type of mine

Underground
Underground

Mine

Skorpion
BMM
Lisheen

Total

b) Metal in concentrate (‘MIC’)

Mine

BMM
Lisheen

Total

204

Year ended 
31 March 
2014 
mt

Year ended 
31 March 
2013 
mt

124,924

145,342

Ore mined

Zinc concentrate

Lead concentrate

31 March 
2014 
mt

31 March 
2013 
mt

1,252,092 1,664,282
1,395,534 1,518,540
1,287,932 1,458,396

31 March 
2014 
mt

–
59,942
282,159

31 March 
2013 
mt

–
78,457
317,413

31 March 
2014 
mt

–
53,221
34,409

31 March 
2013 
mt

–
68,986
39,129

3,935,558 4,641,218 342,101

395,870

87,630

108,115

Zinc in concentrate

Lead in concentrate

31 March 
2014 
mt

31 March 
2013 
mt

28,999
151,021

38,577
169,485

31 March 
2014 
mt

37,574
21,408

31 March 
2013
 mt

48,883
23,407

180,020

208,062

58,902

72,290

Additional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Iron ore
Iron ore production summary

Company

Sesa Sterlite Limited
Saleable Iron Ore
Goa
Karnataka
Orissa
Dempo

Iron ore resource and reserve summary

Mine

Iron ore Sesa
Western Cluster

Comprises mines that Sesa Sterlite Limited owns or has rights to.
Resources are additional to reserves.

Year ended 
31 March 
2014 
Million 
wmt

Year ended 
31 March 
2013 
Million 
wmt

1.5
–
1.5
–
–

4.2
3.1
–
–
1.1

Resources

Measured 
and indicated 
million 
mt

152.3
1,961.0

Iron ore grade 
%

Inferred 
million 
mt

52.17
32.00

80.4
1,689.0

Iron ore
grade 
%

45.87
30.19

Reserves

Proved and 
probable 
reserves 
million 
mt

198.4
172.0

Iron ore 
grade 
%

55.37
35.10

Oil & gas
The oil & gas reserves data set out below are estimated on the basis set out in the section headed ‘Presentation of Information’.

Cairn India
Estimates of the gross proved, probable, and possible oil, condensate, and sales-gas reserves, as of 31 March 2014, attributable to certain 
properties owned by Cairn India, are summarised by field below, expressed in 103bbl of oil and condensate and 106ft3 of sales gas:

Fields

CB-OS/2 PSC
– CB-X
– Gauri
– Lakshmi
CB-OS/2 PSC Total
RJ-ON-90/1 PSC
– Aishwariya
– Bhagyam
Kameshwari West
– Mangala
NE
NI
– Raageshwari Shallow
Raageshwari South
– Raageshwari Deep
– Saraswati
RJ-ON-90/1 PSC Total
PKGM-1 Licence
– Ravva

Grand Total

Proved

Gross Reserves

Probable

Possible

Oil and 
Condensate 
(103bbl)

Sales Gas 
(106ft3)

Oil and 
Condensate 
(103bbl)

Sales Gas 
(106ft3)

Oil and 
Condensate 
(103bbl)

Sales Gas 
(106ft3) 

–
163
6,045
6,208

29,725
42,835
70
192,339
1,224
1,101
1,402
114
1,433
903
271,146

–
693
6,739
7,432

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
11,300
–
11,300

–
109
6,928
7,037

8,025
33,726
51
52,873
240
311
1,032
88
5,054
431
101,831

–
862
9,807
10,669

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
71,668
–
71,668

–
92
7,432
7,524

7,944
9,644
21
36,678
190
168
206
37
–
687
55,575

–
2,378
11,220
13,598

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

17,260

29,989

11,237

15,466

7,766

11,959

294,614

48,721

120,105

97,803

70,865

25,557

Note: Probable and possible reserves have not been risk adjusted to make them comparable to proved reserves.

205

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Production and reserves summary

continued

Estimates of the proved, probable, and possible oil, condensate, and sales-gas reserves, as of 31 March 2014, attributable to the working 
interests of certain properties owned by Cairn India, are summarised by field below, expressed in 103bbl of oil and condensate and 106ft3 of 
sales gas:

Fields

CB-OS/2 PSC
– CB-X
– Gauri
– Lakshmi
CB-OS/2 PSC Total
RJ-ON-90/1 PSC
– Aishwariya
– Bhagyam
Kameshwari West
– Mangala
NE
NI
– Raageshwari Shallow
Raageshwari South
– Raageshwari Deep
– Saraswati
RJ-ON-90/1 PSC Total
PKGM-1 Licence
– Ravva

Grand Total

Working Interest Reserves Summary

Proved

Probable

Possible

Oil and 
Condensate 
(103bbl)

Sales Gas 
(106ft3)

Oil and 
Condensate 
(103bbl)

Sales Gas 
(106ft3)

Oil and 
Condensate 
(103bbl)

Sales Gas 
(106ft3) 

–
65
2,418
2,483

20,808
29,985
49
134,637
857
771
981
80
1,003
632
189,803

277
2,696
2,973

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
7,910
–
7,910

–
44
2,771
2,815

5,618
23,608
36
37,011
168
218
722
62
3,538
302
71,283

–
345
3,923
4,268

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
50,168
–
50,168

–
37
2,973
3,010

5,561
6,751
15
25,675
133
118
144
26
–
481
38,904

–
951
4,488
5,439

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

3,884

6,748

2,528

3,480

1,747

196,170

17,631

76,626

57,916

43,661

2,691

8,130

Note: Probable and possible reserves have not been risk adjusted to make them comparable to proved reserves.

Source of information
In respect of all businesses, the information has been certified by in house geologist on behalf of Group management.

Basis of preparation
Ore reserves and mineral resources reported herein comply with the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Identified Mineral Resources and Ore 
Reserves’, other than those relating to Konkola Copper Mines plc (‘KCM’) which complies with the South African Code for Reporting of Mineral 
Reserves and Mineral Resources (the ‘SAMREC Code’). The former code is prepared by the Joint Ore Reserves Committee of the Australasian 
Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Australian Institute of Geoscientists, and Minerals Council of Australia, and is commonly referred to as the 
‘JORC Code’. As at the date of this document, the editions of the JORC and SAMREC Codes in force are dated December 2004 and March 2000, 
respectively. The JORC and SAMREC Codes recognise a fundamental distinction between resources and reserves. 

The terms and definitions in the SAMREC Code are consistent with those used in the JORC Code with minor differences in terminology – the 
JORC Code uses the term Ore Reserve whilst the SAMREC Code uses the term Mineral Reserve. For the purposes of ore and mineral resources 
reported herein, the term ore resources have been used throughout.

Oil & gas reserves and resources have been prepared according to the Petroleum Resources Management Systems (‘PRMS’) approved in March 
2007 by the Society of Petroleum Engineers, the world Petroleum Council, the American Association of Petroleum Geologist, and the Society of 
Petroleum Evaluation Engineers.

Mineral resources are based on mineral occurrences quantified on the basis of geological data and an assumed cut-off grade, and are divided 
into Measured, Indicated and Inferred categories reflecting decreasing confidence in geological and/or grade continuity. The reporting of 
resource estimates carries the implication that there are reasonable prospects for eventual economic exploitation. An ore or mineral reserve is 
the economically mineable part of a measured or indicated mineral resource. It includes the effect of dilution and losses which may occur when 
the material is mined. Appropriate assessments, which may include feasibility studies, need to 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 at the time of reporting that extraction could be reasonably justified. Ore reserves are sub-divided in order of 
decreasing confidence into proved ore reserves and probable ore reserves.

The measured and indicated mineral resources have been reported as being inclusive of those mineral resources modified to produce the ore 
reserves, in addition to the ore reserves. The resource and reserve estimates provided herein comply with the resource and reserve definitions of 
the JORC Code, other than those relating to KCM which comply with the SAMREC Code. 

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Additional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Glossary and definitions 

5S 
A Japanese concept laying emphasis on housekeeping and 
occupational safety in a sequential series of steps as Sort (Seiri); Set in 
Order (Seiton); Shine (Selso); Standardise (Seiketsu); and Sustain 
(Shitsuke) 

Capital Employed 
Net assets before Net (Debt)/Cash 

Capex
Capital expenditure 

Adapted Comparator Group 
The new comparator group of companies used for the purpose of 
comparing TSR performance in relation to the LTIP, adopted by the 
Remuneration Committee on 1 February 2006 and replacing the 
previous comparator group comprising companies constituting the 
FTSE Worldwide Mining Index (excluding precious metals) 

AGM or Annual General Meeting 
The annual general meeting of the Company which is scheduled to 
be held at 3pm, UK time, on 1 August 2014

AE 
Anode effects 

AIDS 
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome 

Aluminium Business 
The aluminium business of the Group, comprising of its fully-
integrated bauxite mining, alumina refining and aluminium smelting 
operations in India, and trading through the Bharat Aluminium 
Company Limited and Jharsuguda Aluminium (a division of Sesa 
Sterlite Limited), in India 

Cash Tax Rate 
Current taxation as a percentage of profit before taxation 

CEO 
Chief Executive Officer 

CII 
Confederation of Indian Industries 

CLZS 
Chanderiya lead and zinc smelter 

CO2 
Carbon dioxide 

CMT 
Copper Mines of Tasmania Pty Limited, a company incorporated in 
Australia 

Combined Code or the Code 
The Combined Code on Corporate Governance published by the 
Financial Reporting Council in June 2008 & updated them from time 
to time

Articles of Association 
The articles of association of Vedanta Resources plc

Company or Vedanta 
Vedanta Resources plc

Attributable Profit 
Profit for the financial year before dividends attributable to the equity 
shareholders of Vedanta Resources plc

ASARCO
American smelting and refining company, incorporated in the United 
States

BALCO 
Bharat Aluminium Company Limited, a company incorporated in 
India. 

BMM
Black Mountain Mining Pty

Board or Vedanta Board 
The Board of Directors of the Company 

Board Committees 
The committees reporting to the Board: Audit, Remuneration, 
Nominations, and Health, Safety and Environment, each with its own 
terms of reference 

Businesses 
The Aluminium Business, the Copper Business, the Zinc, Lead, Silver, 
Iron Ore, Power and Oil & Gas Business together 

Cairn India Group
Cairn India Limited and its subsidiaries

Company financial statements 
The audited financial statements for the Company for the year ended 
31 March 2014 as defined in the Independent Auditors’ Report on the 
individual Company Financial Statements to the members of Vedanta 
Resources plc

Convertible Bonds 
US$1,250 million 5.5% guaranteed convertible bonds due 2016, 
issued by a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, Vedanta 
Resource Jersey Limited (‘VRJL’) and guaranteed by the Company, the 
proceeds of which are to be applied for to support its organic growth 
pipeline, to increase its ownership interest in its subsidiaries and for 
general corporate purposes

US$883 million 4.0% guaranteed convertible bonds due 2017, issued 
by a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, Vedanta Resource 
Jersey II Limited (‘VRJL-II’) and guaranteed by the Company, the 
proceeds of which are to be applied for to refinance debt redemptions 
and for general corporate purposes

US$500 million 4.0% guaranteed convertible bonds due 2014, issued 
by a subsidiary of the Company, Sesa Sterlite Limited, Sterlite Copper, 
the proceeds of which are to be applied for to for expansion of copper 
business, acquisition of complementary businesses outside of India 
and any other permissible purpose under, and in compliance with, 
applicable laws and regulations in India, including the external 
commercial borrowing regulations specified by the RBI

US$500 million 5.0% guaranteed convertible bonds due 2014, issued 
by a subsidiary of the Company, Sesa Sterlite Limited, Iron ore Sesa, 
the proceeds of which are to be applied for to expand the issuer’s 
mining operations, for exploration for new resources, and to further 
develop its pig iron and metallurgical coke operation 

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Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Glossary and definitions continued

Copper Business 
The copper business of the Group, comprising: 
•  A copper smelter, two refineries and two copper rod plants in India, 
trading through Sesa Sterlite Limited, a company incorporated in 
India; 

•  One copper mine in Australia, trading through Copper Mines of 
Tasmania Pty Limited, a company incorporated in Australia; and 

•  An integrated operation in Zambia consisting of three mines, a 
leaching plant and a smelter, trading through Konkola Copper 
Mines PLC, a company incorporated in Zambia 

CREP 
Corporate responsibility for environmental protection 

Economic Holdings or Economic Interest 
The economic holdings/interest are derived by combining the Group’s 
direct and indirect shareholdings in the operating companies. The 
Group’s Economic Holdings/Interest is the basis on which the 
Attributable Profit and net assets are determined in the consolidated 
accounts 

E&OHSAS 
Environment and occupational health and safety assessment 
standards 

E&OHS 
Environment and occupational health and safety management 
system

Cents/lb
US cents per pound 

CRRI 
Central Road Research Institute 

CRISIL
CRISIL Limited is a rating agency incorporated in India

CSR 
Corporate social responsibility 

CTC 
Cost to company, the basic remuneration of executives in India, which 
represents an aggregate figure encompassing basic pay, pension 
contributions and allowances 

CY 
Calendar year 

Deferred Shares 
Deferred shares of £1.00 each in the Company 

DGMS 
Director General of Mine Safety in the Government of India 

Directors 
The Directors of the Company 

Dollar or $ 
United States dollars, the currency of the United States of America 

EPS
Earnings per ordinary share

ESOP
Employee share option plan

ESP
Electrostatic precipitator

Executive Committee
The Executive Committee to whom the Board has delegated 
operational management. It comprises of the Executive Directors and 
the senior management of the Group

Executive Directors
The Executive Directors of the Company

Expansion Capital Expenditure
Capital expenditure that increases the Group’s operating capacity

Financial Statements or Group financial statements
The consolidated financial statements for the Company and  
the Group for the year ended 31 March 2012 as defined in the 
Independent Auditors’ Report to the members of Vedanta  
Resources plc

Free Cash Flow
Cash flow arising from EBITDA after net interest (including gains on 
liquid investments and adjusted for net interest capitalised), taxation, 
Sustaining Capital Expenditure and working capital movements

DRs 
Depositary receipts of 10 US cents, issuable in relation to the US$725 
million 4.6% guaranteed convertible bonds due 2026 

FY
Financial year i.e. April to March

EBITDA 
Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation, goodwill 
amortisation/impairment and special items 

GAAP, Including UK GAAP and Indian GAAP
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, the common set of 
accounting principles, standards and procedures that companies use 
to compile their financial statements in their respective local territories

EBITDA Margin 
EBITDA as a percentage of turnover

GDP
Gross domestic product

EBITDA Interest Cover
EBITDA divided by gross finance costs excluding accretive interest on 
convertible bonds, unwinding of discount on provisions, interest on 
defined benefit arrangements less investment revenue 

Gearing
Net Debt as a percentage of Capital Employed

GJ
Giga joule

EBITDA Margin Excluding Custom Smelting
EBITDA Margin excluding EBITDA and turnover from custom smelting 
of Copper India, Copper Zambia and Zinc India businesses

GRMC
Group Risk Management Committee

208

Additional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
Government or Indian Government
The Government of the Republic of India

KDMP
Konkola deep mining project

Gratuity
A defined contribution pension arrangement providing pension 
benefits consistent with Indian market practices

Group
The Company and its subsidiary undertakings and, where 
appropriate, its associate undertaking

Gross Finance Costs
Finance costs before capitalisation of borrowing costs

HSE
Health, safety and environment

HZL
Hindustan Zinc Limited, a company incorporated in India

IAS
International Accounting Standards

ICMM
International Council on Mining and Metals

IFRIC
IFRS Interpretations Committee (formerly known as the International 
Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee)

IFRS
International Financial Reporting Standards

INR 
Indian Rupees 

Interest Cover
EBITDA divided by finance costs

ISO 9001
An international quality management system standard published by 
the International Organisation for Standardisation

ISO 14001
An international environmental management system standard 
published by the International Organisation for Standardisation

Iron Ore Sesa
Iron ore Division of Sesa Sterlite Limited, comprising of a Iron ore 
mines in Goa and Karnataka in India

Jharsuguda 2,400MW power plant
Power Division of Sesa Sterlite Limited, comprising of a 2,400MW 
power plant in Jharsuguda in Odisha in India

Jharsuguda Aluminium
Aluminium Division of Sesa Sterlite Limited, comprising of an 
aluminium refining and smelting facilities at Jharsuguda and 
Lanjigarh in Odisha in India

KCM or Konkola Copper Mines
Konkola Copper Mines PLC, a company incorporated in Zambia

Key Result Areas or KRAs
For the purpose of the remuneration report, specific personal targets 
set as an incentive to achieve short-term goals for the purpose of 
awarding bonuses, thereby linking individual performance to 
corporate performance

KLD
Kilo litres per day

KPIs
Key performance indicators

Kwh
Kilo-watt hour

Kwh/d
Kilo-watt hour per day

LIBOR
London inter bank offered rate

LIC
Life Insurance Corporation

Listing or IPO (‘Initial Public Offering’)
The listing of the Company’s ordinary shares on the London Stock 
Exchange on 10 December 2003

Listing Particulars
The listing particulars dated 5 December 2003 issued by the 
Company in connection with its Listing or revised listing filled in 2011.

Listing Rules
The listing rules of the Financial Services Authority, with which 
companies with securities that are listed in the UK must comply

LME
London Metals Exchange

London Stock Exchange
London Stock Exchange plc

Lost Time Injury
An accident/injury forcing the employee/contractor to remain away 
from his/her work beyond the day of the accident

LTIFR
Lost time injury frequency rate: the number of lost time injuries per 
million man hours worked

LTIP
The Vedanta Resources Long-Term Incentive Plan or Long-Term 
Incentive Plan

MALCO
The Madras Aluminium Company Limited, a company incorporated in 
India

Management Assurance Services (‘MAS’)
The function through which the Group’s internal audit activities are 
managed

209

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Glossary and definitions continued

MAT
Minimum alternative tax

MIS
Management information system

MOEF
The Ministry of Environment & Forests of the Government of the 
Republic of India

mt or tonnes
Metric tonnes

MU
Million units

MW
Megawatts of electrical power

NCCBM
National Council of Cement and Building Materials

Net (Debt)/Cash
Total debt after fair value adjustments under IAS 32 and 39, cash and 
cash equivalents and liquid investments

NGO
Non-governmental organisation

NIHL
Noise induced hearing loss

PSC
A ‘production sharing contract’ by which the Government of India 
grants a licence to a company or consortium of companies (the 
‘Contractor’) to explore for and produce any hydrocarbons found 
within a specified area and for a specified period, incorporating 
specified obligations in respect of such activities and a mechanism to 
ensure an appropriate sharing of the profits arising therefrom (if any) 
between the Government and the Contractor

Recycled water 
Water released during mining or processing and then used in 
operational activities 

Relationship Agreement 
The agreement dated 5 December 2003 between the Company, 
Volcan Investments Limited and members of the Agarwal family that 
regulates the ongoing relationship between them, the principal 
purpose of which is to ensure that the Group is capable of carrying on 
business independently of Volcan, the Agarwal family and their 
associates 

Return on Capital Employed or ROCE 
Profit before interest, taxation, special items, tax effected at the 
Group’s effective tax rate as a percentage of Capital Employed 

The Reward Plan 
The Vedanta Resources Share Reward Plan, a closed plan approved by 
shareholders on Listing in December 2003 and adopted for the 
purpose of rewarding employees who contributed to the Company’s 
development and growth over the period leading up to Listing in 
December 2003 

Non-Executive Directors
The Non-Executive Directors of the Company

RO 
Reverse osmosis 

OHSAS 18001
Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (standards for 
occupational health and safety management systems)

Oil & Gas Business
The Group’s subsidiary, Cairn India Limited is involved in the business 
of exploration, development and production of oil & gas

Ordinary Shares
Ordinary shares of 10 US cents each in the Company

SA 8000 
Standard for Social Accountability based on international workplace 
norms in the International Labour Organisation (‘ILO’) conventions 
and the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 
Convention on Rights of the Child 

Senior Management Group 
For the purpose of the remuneration report, the key operational and 
functional heads within the Group 

ONGC
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited, a company incorporated in 
India

Sesa Sterlite Limited (‘SSL’) (earlier Sesa Goa Limited)
Sesa Sterlite Limited, a company incorporated in India engaged in the 
business of Copper smelting, Iron Ore mining, Aluminium mining, 
refining and smelting and Energy generation

PBT
Profit before tax

PFC
Per fluorocarbons

PHC
Primary health centre

PPE 
Personal protective equipment 

Provident Fund 
A defined contribution pension arrangement providing pension 
benefits consistent with Indian market practices 

210

SEWT 
Sterlite Employee Welfare Trust, a long-term investment plan for 
Sterlite senior management 

Sterlite Copper
Copper Division of Sesa Sterlite Limited comprising of a copper 
smelter, two refineries and two copper rod plants in India

The Share Option Plan 
The Vedanta Resources Share Option Plan, a closed plan approved by 
shareholders on Listing in December 2003 and adopted to provide 
maximum flexibility in the design of incentive arrangements over the 
long-term 

Additional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014SHGs 
Self help groups 

SID 
Senior Independent Director 

SO2 
Sulphur dioxide 

SBU 
Strategic Business Unit 

STL 
Sterlite Technologies Limited, a company incorporated in India 

Special Items 
Items which derive from events and transactions that need to be 
disclosed separately by virtue of their size or nature 

SPM 
Suspended particulate matter. Fine dust particles suspended in air 

Sterling, GBP or £ 
The currency of the United Kingdom 

Superannuation Fund 
A defined contribution pension arrangement providing pension 
benefits consistent with Indian market practices 

Sustaining Capital Expenditure 
Capital expenditure to maintain the Group’s operating capacity 

TCM 
Thalanga Copper Mines Pty Limited, a company incorporated in 
Australia 

Turnbull Guidance 
The revised guidance on internal control for directors on the 
Combined Code issued by the Turnbull Review Group in October 2005 

Twin Star 
Twin Star Holdings Limited, a company incorporated in Mauritius

Twin Star Holdings Group 
Twin Star and its subsidiaries and associated undertaking 

Underlying EPS 
Underlying earnings per ordinary share 

Underlying Profit 
Profit for the year after adding back special items and other gains and 
losses and their resultant tax and Non-controlling interest effects 

US Cents 
United States cents 

VFD 
Variable frequency drive 

VFJL 
Vedanta Finance (Jersey) Limited, a company incorporated in Jersey 

VGCB
Vizag General Cargo Berth Private Limited, a company incorporated in 
India

Volcan
Volcan Investments Limited, a company incorporated in the Bahamas 

VRCL 
Vedanta Resources Cyprus Limited, a company incorporated in Cyprus 

TC/RC 
Treatment charge/refining charge being the terms used to set the 
smelting and refining costs 

VRFL 
Vedanta Resources Finance Limited, a company incorporated in the 
United Kingdom 

TGS 
Tail gas scrubber 

TGT 
Tail gas treatment 

TLP
Tail Leaching Plan

tpa
Metric tonnes per annum 

TPM 
Tonne per month 

TSPL
Talwandi Sabo Power Limited, a company incorporated in India

VRHL 
Vedanta Resources Holdings Limited, a company incorporated in the 
United Kingdom 

VSS 
Vertical Stud Söderberg

Water Used for Primary Activities 
Total new or make-up water entering the operation and used for the 
operation’s primary activities; primary activities are those in which the 
operation engages to produce its product 

WBCSD 
World Business Council for Sustainable Development 

ZCI 
Zambia Copper Investment Limited, a company incorporated in 
Bermuda 

TSR 
Total shareholder return, being the movement in the Company’s share 
price plus reinvested dividends 

ZCCM 
ZCCM Investments Holdings plc, a company incorporated in Zambia 

ZRA
Zambia Revenue Authority

211

Strategic ReportDirectors’ ReportFinancial StatementsAdditional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014Shareholder information

Currency option and dividend mandate
Shareholders wishing to receive their dividend in UK pounds sterling 
should complete and return to the Registrar a Currency Election Form. 
In order for the Currency Option and Dividend Mandate to be 
effective for the 2014 final dividend, the completed forms must be 
received by the Registrar by 14 July 2014.

The Registrar can also arrange for the dividend to be paid directly into 
a shareholder’s UK bank account. To take advantage of this facility, 
please contact Computershare who will provide a Dividend Mandate 
Form. Please complete and return the form to the Registrar by 11 July 
2014. This arrangement is only available in respect of dividends paid 
in UK pounds sterling. Consequently, you may only take advantage of 
this arrangement if you have also completed a Currency Election 
Form and returned it to the Registrar by 14 July 2014. If you have 
already completed and returned a Currency Election Form and/or a 
Dividend Mandate Form, you need take no further action. Currency 
election and dividend mandate forms are also available online 
through the Investor Centre service www.investorcentre.co.uk.

Financial calendar
Dividend payments
Ex-dividend date 
Record date 
2013 final ordinary dividend payable 

9 July 2014
11 July 2014
8 August 2014

Other dates
Annual General Meeting 
2014 half year results announced 

1 August 2014
November 2014

Shareholder interests as at 31 March 2014

Number of shareholders:
Number of shares in issue:

4,137
298,182,135

3,924
297,583,010

2014

2013

By size of holding

500 and under
501 to 1,000
1,001 to 10,000
10,001 to 100,000
100,001 to 1,000,000
Over 1,000,000

Shareholders %

Shares %

2014

59.85
15.01
17.45
5.32
1.72
0.65

2013

56.32
14.35
19.09
7.31
2.27
0.66

2014

0.18
0.15
0.72
2.54
7.01
89.40

2013

0.18
0.14
0.77
3.34
7.45
88.12

100.00

100.00

100.00

100.00

Annual General Meeting
The AGM will be held on 1 August 2014 at 3pm. The Notice of 
Meeting and the Form of Proxy are enclosed with this Report.

Company website
The Company’s Half Year and Annual Reports and  
results announcements are available on the website at  
www.vedantaresources.com. Shareholders can also access the  
latest information about the Company and press announcements  
as they are released, together with details of future events and 
 who to contact for further information.

Registrar
For information about the AGM, shareholdings and dividends and to 
report changes in personal details, shareholders should contact:

Computershare Investor Services PLC
The Pavilions
Bridgwater Road
Bristol
BS99 6ZZ
United Kingdom

Telephone:  +44 (0) 870 707 1388
Email: 

web.queries@computershare.co.uk

Computershare provide a free self-service website, Investor Centre, 
through which you can view your share balance, change your  
address, view your dividend payment and tax information and  
update your payment instructions. For further information, visit  
www.investorcentre.co.uk.

Cautionary statement about forward-looking statements
Certain statements made in this document constitute “forward-looking statements”. In this context, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “expects”, 
“anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “predicts”, “assurance”, “assumes”, “aim”, “hope”, “risk”, “estimates”, “believes”, “seeks”, “may”, “should” or “will” or the negative thereof or other similar expressions  
that are predictive or indicative of future events. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this document, including, without limitation, those regarding the Group’s 
expectations, intentions and beliefs concerning, amongst other things, the Group’s results of operations, financial position, growth strategy, prospects, dividend policy and the industries in which 
the Group operates, are forward-looking statements. 
Forward–looking statements, by their nature, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of the Group and its Directors, which may 
cause the actual results, performance, achievements, dividends of the Group or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied 
by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this document speak only as of the date of this document. As such, forward-looking statements are no guarantee 
of future performance.
Except as required by applicable regulations or by law, the Group does not undertake to publicly update any forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information or future events and 
expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained in this document to reflect any changes in its 
expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

212

Additional InformationVedanta Resources plcAnnual report and accounts FY2014 
 
 
 
 
 
Contacts       Awards and accolades 
FY2014

Investor Relations
For investor enquiries, please contact:

Mr Ashwin Bajaj
Senior Vice President, Investor Relations 
Vedanta Resources plc
16 Berkeley Street
London W1J 8DZ
Telephone:  +44 (0) 20 7659 4732 (London)

Email: 

+91 22 6646 1531 (Mumbai)
ir@vedanta.co.in

Registered office
Vedanta Resources plc
2nd Floor
Vintners Place
68 Upper Thames Street
London EC4V 3BJ

Company Secretary
Deepak Kumar

Head office
16 Berkeley Street
London W1J 8DZ
Telephone:  +44 (0) 20 7499 5900
+44 (0) 20 7491 8440
Fax: 

Registered number
4740415

Auditors
Deloitte LLP
2 New Street Square
London EC4A 3BZ

Solicitors
Ashurst LLP
Broadwalk House
5 Appold Street
London EC2A 2HA

Latham & Watkins LLP
99 Bishopsgate
London EC2M 3XF

Oil & Gas
Cairn India Ltd received the following 
awards/recognition:
•  ‘World’s fastest growing Energy company’ 
in the 2013 Platts Top 250 Global Energy 
Company Rankings. 

•  The Oil Industry Safety Directorate (OISD) 
Safety Award for the Cross country crude 
oil pipeline in 2013. 

•  FICCI Corporate Social Responsibility 

Award – 2013.

In 2013, Cairn India’s Mangala Oil and Gas 
field was granted the third FICCI Safety 
Systems Excellence Awards for 
Manufacturing – 2013.

Zinc-Lead-Silver
Hindustan Zinc Ltd (‘HZL’) received the 
following awards/recognition:
•  The Udaipur Chamber of Commerce and 

Industry 2013 Corporate Social 
Responsibility Award. 

Sesa Sterlite Ltd’s Aluminium and Power 
plant at Jharsuguda (500kt smelter and 
power plant) received the following awards: 
•  Frost & Sullivan’s Green Manufacturing 

Excellence Award 2013

•  Frost & Sullivan’s The Economic  

Times India Manufacturing Excellence 
Awards 2013

•  14th National Award for Excellence in 

Energy Management by CII

•  Best CSR Practices Award 2013 for Women 

Empowerment and Community 
Development Initiatives by Think Media 
Inc

•  CII Odisha Award 2013 for Best Practices 

in Environment, Health and Safety

•  ‘Outstanding and Noteworthy 

Accomplishments’ in the Sector at the 6th 
India Power Awards 2013 by the Council of 
Power Utilities

•  National Energy Conservation Award 2013 

by BEE

•  National Award for Best CSR Practice at 

•  Commendation certificate at the CII –  

the National CSR Conclave

ITC Sustainability Awards.

HZL’s Chanderiya Smelting Complex received 
the following awards/recognition:
•  Indian Manufacturing Excellence Award 

2013 by Frost & Sullivan.

•  Ram Krishna Bajaj National Quality Award 

– 2013 for Business Excellence.

•  The Odisha CSR Conclave Award 2014 for 
Support and Improvement in Quality 
Education Award and Innovative Efforts 
for Sustainable Growth Award 

•  Recognition by the Odisha CSR conclave 
2014 for Support and Improvement in 
Quality Education and Innovative projects 
for Sustainable Growth 

•  State Level Bhamashah Award 2013.

•  Greentech CSR and the Greentech 

Environment award 2014

•  World HRD congress 2013 Employer 

branding award in the ‘Managing health 
at work’ category 

Copper
Sesa Sterlite Ltd’s Copper Smelting plant at 
Tuticorin received the following awards:
•  Safety Innovation Award 2013 from the 

Institution of Engineers (India)

•  The CII EHS 2013 ‘3 Star Appreciation 
Award’ in recognition of its efforts in 
Environment, Health and Safety Practices

Creative Partnerships Australia awarded the 
Copper Mines of Tasmania (‘CMT’) and 
Queenstown Heritage and Arts Festival the 
2013 Toyota Community Award 

Konkola Copper Mines received a ‘Four Star’ 
grading for its overall approach to safety 
management systems as per the best 
practice benchmarks by the British Safety 
Council

Zinc International’s Lisheen Mine received 
the Bank of Ireland Community Spirit  
Award 2013 for its Business in the 
Community project.

Zinc International’s Skorpion Mine was 
rewarded with the ‘National Energy 
Conservation Award 2013’, by the Indian 
Government’s Ministry of Power.

Aluminium and Power
Bharat Aluminium (‘BALCO’) received the 
following awards/recognition:
•  Awards in both The Community 

development and Best use of CSR 
practices in manufacturing sector 
categories by the Global CSR Excellence  
& Leadership Awards, presented by the 
World CSR congress 2014. 

•  Best CSR practices award in the Indian 
mining sector at the National CSR 
Conclave Awards held in March 2014. 

•  Shristi Good Green Governance  

Award 2013. 

•  CII – Best Environment Practice Award 

2013 in the Innovative Category.

•  ‘Sita Ram Rungta Social Awareness Award’ 

for the Bodai-Daldali Bauxite Mines.

 
V

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Vedanta Resources plc 
5th Floor, 16 Berkeley Street
London W1J 3DZ
Tel:  +44 (0) 20 7499 5900
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7491 8440

vedantaresources.com