Accounting Policies of HT Media Ltd. Company

Mar 31, 2025

2. Material accounting policies followed by
company

2.1 Basis of preparation

The standalone financial statements of the Company
have been prepared in accordance with the Indian
Accounting Standards (‘Ind-AS’) specified in
the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards)
Rules, 2015 (as amended) under Section 133 of the
Companies Act 2013 (the “accounting principles
generally accepted in India”).

The accounting policies are applied consistently to
all the periods presented in the financial statements.

The standalone financial statements have been
prepared on a historical cost basis, except for the
following assets and liabilities which have been
measured at fair value:

- Derivative financial instruments are
measured at fair value.

- Certain financial assets and liabilities are
measured at fair value (refer accounting policy
regarding financial instruments).

- Defined benefit plans - plan assets are measured
at fair value. The fair value of plan assets is
deducted from present value of Defined benefit
obligation in determining deficit or surplus.

The standalone financial statements are presented
in Indian Rupees (INR), which is also the Company’s
functional currency. All amounts disclosed in the
financial statements and notes have been rounded
off to the nearest lakhs as per the requirement of
Schedule III, unless otherwise stated.

2.2 Summary of Material accounting policies

a) Current versus non- current classification

The Company presents assets and liabilities
in the balance sheet based on current/ non¬
current classification. An asset is treated as
current when it is:

• Expected to be realised or intended to sold
or consumed in normal operating cycle

• Held primarily for the purpose of trading

• Expected to be realised within twelve
months after the reporting period, or

• Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted
from being exchanged or used to settle a
liability for at least twelve months after
the reporting period.

All other assets are classified as non-current
A liability is current when:

• It is expected to be settled in normal
operating cycle

• It is held primarily for the
purpose of trading

• It is due to be settled within twelve months
after the reporting period, or

• There is no unconditional right to defer
the settlement of the liability for at least
twelve months after the reporting period

The Company classifies all other liabilities
as non-current.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified
as non-current assets and liabilities.

The operating cycle is the time between
publishing of advertisement and circulation
of newspaper and its realisation in cash and
cash equivalents. The Company has identified
twelve months as its operating cycle.

b) Foreign currencies

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially
recorded by the Company at their respective
functional currency spot rates at the date the
transaction first qualifies for recognition.
However, for practical reasons, the Company
uses an average rate if the average approximates
the actual rate at the date of the transaction.

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated
in foreign currencies are translated at the
functional currency spot rates of exchange at
the reporting date.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement
of monetary items or on restatement of the
Company’s monetary items at rates different
from those at which they were initially
recorded during the period, or reported in
previous financial statements, are recognized
as income or as expenses in the period in which
they arise. They are deferred in equity if they
relate to qualifying cash flow hedges.

Non-monetary items that are measured in
terms of historical cost in a foreign currency
are translated using the exchange rates at the
dates of the initial transactions.

Exchange differences pertaining to long term
foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed
on or before March 31, 2015:

- Exchange differences on long-term
foreign currency monetary items relating
to acquisition of depreciable assets are
adjusted to the carrying cost of the assets
and depreciated over the balance life of the
assets in accordance with option available
under Ind-AS 101 (first time adoption).

Exchange differences pertaining to long term
foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed
on or after April 1, 2015:

- The exchange differences pertaining to
long term foreign currency loans obtained
or re-financed on or after April 1, 2015 is
charged off or credited to the statement of
profit & loss account under Ind-AS.

c) Fair value measurement

The Company measures financial instruments,
such as, derivatives and certain investments at
fair value at each reporting/ balance sheet date.

Fair value is the price that would be received
to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability

in an orderly transaction between market
participants at the measurement date. The
fair value measurement is based on the
presumption that the transaction to sell the
asset or transfer the liability takes place either:

• In the principal market for the asset
or liability, or

• In the absence of a principal market, in
the most advantageous market for the
asset or liability

The principal or the most advantageous market
must be accessible by the Company.

The fair value of an asset or a liability is
measured using the assumptions that market
participants would use when pricing the asset
or liability, assuming that market participants
act in their economic best interest.

A fair value measurement of a non-financial
asset takes into account a market participant’s
ability to generate economic benefits by using
the asset in its highest and best use or by selling
it to another market participant that would use
the asset in its highest and best use.

The Company uses valuation techniques that
are appropriate in the circumstances and for
which sufficient data are available to measure
fair value, maximising the use of relevant
observable inputs and minimising the use of
unobservable inputs.

All assets and liabilities for which fair value
is measured or disclosed in the financial
statements are categorised within the fair value
hierarchy, described as follows, based on the
lowest level input that is significant to the fair
value measurement as a whole:

• Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market
prices in active markets for identical
assets or liabilities

• Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which
inputs are inputs other than quoted

prices included within Level 1 that are
observable for the asset or liability, either
directly or indirectly''

• Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which
inputs are unobservable inputs for the
asset or liability

For assets and liabilities that are recognised in
the financial statements on a recurring basis,
the Company determines whether transfers
have occurred between levels in the hierarchy
by re-assessing categorisation (based on the
lowest level input that is significant to the fair
value measurement as a whole) at the end of
each reporting period.

For the purpose of fair value disclosures, the
Company has determined classes of assets
and liabilities on the basis of the nature,
characteristics and risks of the asset or liability
and the level of the fair value hierarchy as
explained above.

This Note summarises accounting policy for
fair value. Other fair value related disclosures
are given in the relevant notes :

• Disclosures for valuation methods,

significant estimates and

assumptions (Note 40)

• Quantitative disclosures of fair value

measurement hierarchy (Note 40)

• Investments at Fair Value through profit
and loss (Note 6B)

• Investment properties (Note 4)

• Financial instruments (including those

carried at amortised cost) (Note 6D)

d) Revenue recognition and other income

Revenue from contracts with customers is
recognised when control over services are
transferred to the customer at an amount
that reflects the consideration to which the
Company expects to be entitled in exchange for
those services.

Revenue towards satisfaction of a performance
obligation is measured at the amount of
transaction price (net of variable consideration)
allocated to that performance obligation. The
transaction price of goods sold and services
rendered is net of variable consideration on
account of various discounts and schemes
offered by the Company as part of the contract.

If the consideration in a contract includes a
variable amount, the Company estimates the
amount of consideration to which it will be
entitled in exchange for transferring the goods
to the customer. The variable consideration
is estimated at contract inception and
constrained until it is highly probable that a
significant revenue reversal in the amount
of cumulative revenue recognised will not
occur when the associated uncertainty with
the variable consideration is subsequently
resolved. The Company applies the most
likely amount method or the expected value
method to estimate the variable consideration
in the contract. The selected method that best
predicts the amount of variable consideration
is primarily driven by the number of volume
thresholds contained in the contract. The
most likely amount is used for those contracts
with a single volume threshold, while the
expected value method is used for those
with more than one volume threshold. The
Company then applies the requirements on
constraining estimates in order to determine
the amount of variable consideration that
can be included in the transaction price and
recognised as revenue.

The Company applies the practical expedient
to not to disclose the amount of the remaining
performance obligations for contracts with
original expected duration of less than one year.

For contracts with a significant financing
component, an entity adjusts the promised
consideration to reflect the time value of
money. As such, the transaction price for these
contracts is discounted, using the interest rate
implicit in the contract (i.e., the interest rate

that discounts the cash selling price of the
equipment to the amount paid in advance). This
rate is commensurate with the rate that would
be reflected in a separate financing transaction
between the Company and the customer at
contract inception. The Company applies the
practical expedient for short-term advances
received from customers. That is, the promised
amount of consideration is not adjusted for the
effects of a significant financing component
if the period between the transfer of the
promised good or service and the payment is
one year or less.

Revenue excludes taxes collected from
customers. The Company has concluded
that it is the principal in all of its revenue
arrangements since it is the primary obligor in
all the revenue arrangements as it has pricing
latitude and is also exposed to inventory
and credit risks.

Goods and Service Tax (GST) is not received
by the Company on its own account. Rather,
it is tax collected on behalf of the government.
Accordingly, it is excluded from revenue.

Contract asset represents the Company’s right
to consideration in exchange for services that
the Company has transferred to a customer
when that right is conditioned on something
other than the passage of time.

When there is unconditional right to receive
cash, and only passage of time is required
to do invoicing, the same is presented as
Unbilled receivable.

A contract liability is recognised if a payment
is received or a payment is due (whichever is
earlier) from a customer before the Company
transfers the related goods or services and the
Company is under an obligation to provide
only the goods or services under the contract.
Contract liabilities are recognised as revenue
when the Company performs under the
contract (i.e., transfers control of the related
goods or services to the customer).

The specific recognition criteria
described below must also be met before
revenue is recognised:

Print Revenue:

• Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when
advertisement is published/ displayed and
when it is “probable” that the Company
will collect the consideration it is entitled
to in exchange for the services it transfers
to the customer.

• Sale of Newspaper & Publications,
Waste Papers and Scrap

Revenue from the sale of newspaper &
publications are recognised when the
newspaper and publications are delivered
to the distributor. Revenue from the sale of
waste papers/scrap is recognised when the
control is transferred to the buyer, usually
on delivery of the waste papers/scrap.

• Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work
is recognised by reference to stage
of completion of job work as per
terms of agreement.

• Forfeiture of security deposits:

Forfeiture of security deposits arises on
account of the Company’s main operating
activity. The same is presented as part of
“Other Operating Revenue”.

• Event related

Event/Conference revenue is recognized
on the completion of event activity and
sum received in advance, if any, for event
is recognized as advance from customers.

Radio Revenue:

• Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting
categorised in Free Commercial Time
(FCT) and Non Free Commercial Time

(Non FCT) is recognized on the airing of
client''s commercials.

Digital Revenue:

• Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from digital platforms by display
of internet advertisements are typically
contracted for a period ranging between
zero to twelve months.

Revenue in this respect is recognized as
and when advertisement is displayed.
Unearned revenues are reported on the
balance sheet as contract liability.

• Shine.com Subscription Revenue

Revenue from subscription of package
is recognized over the period of the
subscription usually ranging between one
to twelve months. This is in accordance
with the established principles of
accrual accounting. Unearned revenues
are reported on the balance sheet as
contract liability.

• Revenue from Shine Learning Services

Revenue from Resume or course service
is recognised over the time as and
when the Company satisfies identified
performance obligations by rendering
service to a customer.

• Revenue from SMS pushes/e-mails

Revenue is recognised after the delivery of
SMS pushes/e-mails.

Interest income

For all debt instruments measured either at
amortised cost or at fair value through other
comprehensive income, interest income is
recorded using the effective interest rate
(ElR). EIR is the rate that exactly discounts
the estimated future cash receipts over the
expected life of the financial instrument or
a shorter period, where appropriate, to the
gross carrying amount of the financial asset.

When calculating the effective interest rate, the
Company estimates the expected cash flows
by considering all the contractual terms of the
financial instrument (for example, prepayment,
extension, call and similar options) but does
not consider the expected credit losses. Interest
income is included in other income in the
statement of profit and loss.

Dividends

Revenue is recognised when the Company’s
right to receive the payment is established,
which is generally when shareholders
approve the dividend.

e) Government grants

Government grants are recognised where
there is reasonable assurance that the grant
will be received and all attached conditions
will be complied with. When the grant relates
to an expense item, it is recognised as income
on a systematic basis over the periods that
the related costs, for which it is intended to
compensate, are expensed.

When the Company receives grants relating to
the purchase of property, plant and equipment,
the asset and the grant is recorded at fair
value and are released to the statement of
Profit and Loss over the expected useful lives
of related assets. Grant income is disclosed as
‘Other income’.

f) Taxes

Current income tax

Tax expense is the aggregate amount included
in the determination of profit or loss for the
period in respect of current tax an d deferred tax.

Current income tax is measured at the amount
expected to be paid to the tax authorities in
accordance with the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Current income tax assets and liabilities
are measured at the amount expected to
be recovered from or paid to the taxation
authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to

compute the amount are those that are enacted
or substantively enacted, at the reporting date.

Current income tax relating to items recognised
outside profit or loss is recognised outside
profit or loss (either in other comprehensive
income or in equity). Current tax items are
recognised in correlation to the underlying
transaction either in OCI or directly in equity.
Management periodically evaluates positions
taken in the tax returns with respect to
situations in which applicable tax regulations
are subject to interpretation and establishes
provisions where appropriate.

Appendix C to Ind AS 12, Income Taxes dealing
with accounting for uncertainty over income
tax treatments does not have any material
impact on financial statements of the Company.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax is provided considering
temporary differences between the tax bases
of assets and liabilities and their carrying
amounts for financial reporting purposes at the
reporting date.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all
taxable temporary differences except :

• When the deferred tax liability arises
from the initial recognition of goodwill or
an asset or liability in a transaction that
is not a business combination and, at the
time of the transaction, affects neither the
accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss

• In respect of taxable temporary
differences associated with investments
in subsidiaries and associates, when 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 tax assets are recognised for all
deductible temporary differences, the carry
forward of unused tax credits and any unused

tax losses. Deferred tax assets are recognised to
the extent that it is probable with convincing
evidence that taxable profit will be available
against which the deductible temporary
differences, and the carry forward of unused
tax credits and unused tax losses can be
utilised, except:

• When the deferred tax asset relating
to the deductible temporary difference
arises from the initial recognition of an
asset or liability in a transaction that is
not a business combination and, at the
time of the transaction, affects neither the
accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss

• In respect of deductible temporary
differences associated with investments in
subsidiaries and associates, deferred tax
assets are recognised only to the extent that
it is probable that the temporary differences
will reverse in the foreseeable future and
taxable profit will be available against which
the temporary differences can be utilised

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is
reviewed at each reporting date and reduced
to the extent that it is no longer probable that
sufficient taxable profit will be available to
allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to
be utilised. Unrecognised deferred tax assets
are re-assessed at each reporting date and are
recognised to the extent that it has become
probable that future taxable profits will allow
the deferred tax asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured
at the tax rates that are expected to apply in 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 reporting date.

Deferred tax relating to items recognised
outside profit or loss is recognised outside
profit or loss. Deferred tax items are recognised
in correlation to the underlying transaction
either in OCI or directly in equity.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities
are offset if and only if it has a legally enfo rceable
right to set off current tax assets and current
tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and
deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes
levied by the same taxation authority on either
the same taxable entity or different taxable
entities which intend either to settle current
tax liabilities and assets on a net basis, or
to realise the assets and settle the liabilities
simultaneously, in each future period in which
significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities or
assets are expected to be settled or recovered.

GST/ value added taxes paid on acquisition
of assets or on incurring expenses

Expenses and assets are recognised net of the
amount of GST/ value added taxes paid, except:

• When the tax incurred on a purchase of
assets or services is not recoverable from
the taxation authority, in which case, the
tax paid is recognised as part of the cost
of acquisition of the asset or as part of the
expense item, as applicable

• When receivables and payables are stated
with the amount of tax included

The net amount of tax recoverable from,
or payable to, the taxation authority is
included as part of receivables or payables in
the balance sheet.

g) Non- current assets held for sale

Non-current assets (or disposal groups) are
classified as held for sale if their carrying
amount will be recovered principally through
a sale transaction rather than through
continuing use and a sale is considered highly
probable. They are measured at the lower of
their carrying amount and fair value less costs
to sell, except for assets such as deferred tax
assets, assets arising from employee benefits,
financial assets and contractual rights under
insurance contracts, which are specifically
exempt from this requirement.

Property, plant and equipment and intangible
are not depreciated, or amortised assets once
classified as held for sale.

Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale
are presented separately from other items in
the balance sheet.

h) Property, plant and equipment

The Company has applied for one time
transition option of considering the carrying
cost of Property, Plant & Equipment on the
transition date i.e. April 1, 2015 as the deemed
cost under Ind-AS.

Construction in progress is stated at cost, net
of accumulated impairment losses, if any.
Plant and equipment is stated at cost, net of
accumulated depreciation and accumulated
impairment losses, if any. Such cost includes
the cost of replacing part of the plant and
equipment and borrowing costs for long¬
term construction projects if the recognition
criteria are met.

Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing
costs if capitalization criteria are met and any
directly attributable cost of bringing the asset
to its working condition for the intended use.
Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted
in arriving at the purchase price.

Recognition:

The cost of an item of property, plant and
equipment shall be recognised as an asset
if, and only if:

(a) it is probable that future economic
benefits associated with the item will flow
to the entity; and

(b) the cost of the item can be
measured reliably.

All other expenses on existing assets, including
day- to- day repair and maintenance expenditure
and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the
statement of profit and loss for the period
during which such expenses are incurred.

When significant parts of plant and equipment
are required to be replaced at intervals, the
Company depreciates them separately based
on their specific useful lives. Likewise, when
a major inspection is performed, its cost is
recognised in the carrying amount of the
plant and equipment as a replacement if the
recognition criteria are satisfied. All other
repair and maintenance costs are recognised in
profit or loss as incurred.

Value for individual assets acquired from
''The Hindustan Times Limited'' (the holding
company) in an earlier year is allocated based
on the valuation carried out by independent
expert at the time of acquisition. Other assets
are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation
and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The Company identifies and determines cost
of asset significant to the total cost of the asset
having useful life that is materially different
from that of the remaining life.

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line
basis over the estimated useful lives of the
assets as follows:

Leasehold improvements are depreciated over
the shorter of their useful life or the lease
term, unless the entity expects to use the assets
beyond the lease term.

The Company, based on technical assessment
made by the management depreciates certain
assets over estimated useful lives which are

different from the useful life prescribed in
Schedule ll to the Companies Act, 2013. The
management has estimated, supported by
technical assessment, the useful lives of certain
plant and machinery as 16 to 21.1 years. These
useful lives are higher than those indicated
in Schedule II. The management believes that
these estimated useful lives are realistic and
reflect fair approximation of the period over
which the assets are likely to be used.

Property, Plant and Equipment which
are added/disposed off during the year,
depreciation is provided on pro-rata basis with
reference to the month of addition/deletion.

An item of property, plant and equipment
and any significant part initially recognised
is derecognised upon disposal or when no
future economic benefits are expected from
its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on
de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the
difference between the net disposal proceeds
and the carrying amount of the asset) is
included in the income statement when the
asset is derecognised.

Expenditure directly attributable to
construction activity is capitalized. Other
indirect costs incurred during the construction
periods which are not directly attributable to
construction activity are charged to Statement
of Profit and Loss. Reinvested income earned
during the construction period is adjusted
against the total of indirect expenditure.

The residual values, useful lives and methods of
depreciation of property, plant and equipment
are reviewed at each financial year end and
adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

i) Investment properties

Investment properties are properties (land
and buildings) that are held for long-term
rental yields and/or for capital appreciation.
Investment properties are measured initially at
cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent

to initial recognition, investment properties are
stated at cost less accumulated depreciation
and accumulated impairment loss, if any.

The Company depreciates building component
of investment property over 30 years from the
date property is ready for possession.

Though the Company measures investment
property using cost based measurement, the
fair value of investment property is disclosed
in the notes. Fair values are determined based
on an annual evaluation performed by an
accredited external independent valuer.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has
elected to continue with the carrying value of
all of its Investment properties recognised as at
April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP
and use that carrying value as the deemed cost
of the Investment Properties.

Investment properties are derecognised either
when they have been disposed of or when they
are permanently withdrawn from use and
no future economic benefit is expected from
their disposal. The difference between the net
disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of
the asset is recognised in profit or loss in the
period of de-recognition.

Investment properties that meet the criteria to
be classified as held for sale are measured and
presented in accordance with Ind AS 105.

j) Intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are
measured on initial recognition at cost. The
cost of intangible assets acquired in a business
combination is their fair value at the date of
acquisition. Following initial recognition,
intangible assets are carried at cost less any
accumulated amortisation and accumulated
impairment losses. Internally generated
intangibles, excluding capitalised development
costs, are not capitalised and the related
expenditure is reflected in profit or loss in the
period in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired
from the holding company in an earlier year
is allocated based on the valuation carried
out by an independent expert at the time
of acquisition.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has
elected to continue with the carrying value of
all of its Intangible assets recognised as at April
1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and
use that carrying value as the deemed cost of
the Intangible assets.

The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed
as either finite or indefinite.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised
over the useful economic life and assessed for
impairment whenever there is an indication
that the intangible asset may be impaired.
The amortisation period and the amortisation
method for an intangible asset with a finite
useful life are reviewed at least at the end
of each reporting period. Changes in the
expected useful life or the expected pattern
of consumption of future economic benefits
embodied in the asset are considered to
modify the amortisation period or method,
as appropriate, and are treated as changes in
accounting estimates.

The amortisation expense on intangible assets
with finite lives is recognised in the statement
of profit and loss.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful
lives are not amortised, but are tested for
impairment annually, either individually or at
the cash-generating unit level. The assessment
of indefinite life is reviewed annually to
determine whether the indefinite life continues
to be supportable. If not, the change in useful
life from indefinite to finite is made on a
prospective basis.

An intangible asset is derecognised upon
disposal (i.e., at the date the recipient obtains
control) or when no future economic benefits

are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain
or loss arising upon de-recognition of the asset
(calculated as the difference between the net
disposal proceeds and the carrying amount
of the asset) is included in the statement of
profit or loss.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized
on straight line basis using the estimated useful
life as follows:

k) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest, amortization
of ancillary costs incurred in connection with
the arrangement of borrowings and exchange
differences arising from foreign currency
borrowings to the extent they are regarded as
an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs, if any, directly attributable
to the acquisition, construction or production
of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial
period of time to get ready for its intended
use or sale are capitalized, if any. All other
borrowing costs are expensed in the period in
which they occur.

l) Leases

A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract
conveys the right to control the use of an
identified asset for a period of time in exchange
for consideration.

Company as a lessee

The Company recognises right-of-use asset
representing its right to use the underlying
asset for the lease term at the lease
commencement date. The cost of the right-of-
use asset measured at inception shall comprise
of the amount of the initial measurement of the

lease liability adjusted for any lease payments
made at or before the commencement date less
any lease incentives received, plus any initial
direct costs incurred and an estimate of costs
to be incurred by the lessee in dismantling and
removing the underlying asset or restoring
the underlying asset or site on which it is
located. The right-of-use assets is subsequently
measured at cost less any accumulated
depreciation, accumulated impairment losses,
if any and adjusted for any remeasurement
of the lease liability. The right-of-use assets
is depreciated using the straight-line method
from the commencement date over the shorter
of lease term or useful life of right-of-use asset.
The estimated useful lives of right-of-use assets
are determined on the same basis as those of
property, plant and equipment. Right-of-use
assets are tested for impairment whenever
there is any indication that their carrying
amounts may not be recoverable. Impairment
loss, if any, is recognised in the statement of
profit and loss.

The Company measures the lease liability at
the present value of the lease payments that
are not paid at the commencement date of
the lease. The lease payments are discounted
using the interest rate implicit in the lease,
if that rate can be readily determined. If
that rate cannot be readily determined,
the Company uses incremental borrowing
rate. The lease payments shall include fixed
payments, variable lease payments, residual
value guarantees, exercise price of a purchase
option where the Company is reasonably
certain to exercise that option and payments of
penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease
term reflects the lessee exercising an option to
terminate the lease. After the commencement
date, the amount of lease liabilities is increased
to reflect the accretion of interest and reduced
for the lease payments made. The lease liability
is subsequently remeasured by increasing the
carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease
liability, reducing the carrying amount to reflect
the lease payments made and remeasuring the

carrying amount to reflect any reassessment
or lease modifications or to reflect revised in¬
substance fixed lease payments. The Company
recognises the amount of the re-measurement
of lease liability due to modification as an
adjustment to the right-of-use asset and
statement of profit and loss depending upon
the nature of modification. Where the carrying
amount of the right-of-use asset is reduced to
zero and there is a further reduction in the
measurement of the lease liability, the Company
recognises any remaining amount of the re¬
measurement in statement of profit and loss.

The Company has elected not to apply the
requirements of Ind AS 116 to short-term leases
of all assets that have a lease term of 12 months
or less and leases fo r which the un derlying asset
is of low value. The lease payments associated
with these leases are recognised as an expense
on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

As a practical expedient a lessee (the company)
has elected, by class of underlying asset, not to
separate lease components from any associated
non-lease components. A lessee (the company)
accounts for the lease component and the
associated non-lease components as a single
lease component.

Sale and leaseback

A sale and leaseback transaction is where
the Company sells an asset and immediately
reacquires the use of the asset by entering
into a lease with the buyer. A sale occurs
when control of the underlying asset passes
to the buyer. A lease liability is recognised,
the associated property, plant and equipment
asset is derecognised, and a right of use
asset is recognised at the proportion of the
carrying value relating to the right retained.
Any gain or loss arising relates to the rights
transferred to the buyer.

Company as a lessor

At the inception of the lease the Company
classifies each of its leases as either an

operating lease or a finance lease. The Company
recognises lease payments received under
operating leases as income on a straight- line
basis over the lease term. In case of a finance
lease, finance income is recognised over the
lease term based on a pattern reflecting a
constant periodic rate of return on the lessor’s
net investment in the lease.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling
price in the ordinary course of business,
less estimated costs of completion and the
estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

Raw materials, components and other supplies
held for use in the production of finished
products are not written down below cost
except in cases where material prices have
declined and it is estimated that the cost of
the finished products will exceed their net
realisable value.

The comparison of cost and net realisable value
is made on an item-by-item basis.

n) Impairment of non-financial assets

For assets with definite useful life, the company
assesses, at each reporting date, whether there
is an indication that an asset may be impaired.
If any indication exists, or when annual
impairment testing for an asset is required,
the Company estimates the asset’s recoverable
amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is
the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating
unit’s (CGU) fair value less costs of disposal
and its value in use. Recoverable amount is
determined for an individual asset, unless the
asset does not generate cash inflows that are
largely independent of those from other assets
or groups of assets. When the carrying amount
of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable
amount, the asset is considered impaired and is
written down to its recoverable amount.

In assessing value in use, the estimated future
cash flows are discounted to their present
value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects
current market assessments of the time
value of money and the risks specific to the
asset. In determining fair value less costs of
disposal, recent market transactions are taken
into account. If no such transactions can be
identified, an appropriate valuation model is
used. These calculations are corroborated by
valuation multiples, quoted share prices for
publicly traded Company’s or other available
fair value indicators.

The Company bases its impairment calculation
on detailed budgets and forecast calculations,
which are prepared separately for each of the
Company’s CGUs to which the individual assets
are allocated. These budgets and forecast
calculations generally cover a period of five
years. For longer periods, a long-term growth
rate is calculated and applied to project future
cash flows after the fifth year. To estimate cash
flow projections beyond periods covered by the
most recent budgets/forecasts, the Company

extrapolates cash flow projections in the
budget using a steady or declining growth rate
for subsequent years, unless an increasing rate
can be justified. In any case, this growth rate
does not exceed the long-term average growth
rate for the products, industries, or country or
countries in which the entity operates, or for
the market in which the asset is used.

Impairment losses of continuing operations,
including impairment on inventories, are
recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

An assessment is made at each reporting date
to determine whether there is an indication
that previously recognised impairment losses
no longer exist or have decreased. If such
indication exists, the Company estimates
the asset''s or CGU''s recoverable amount. A
previously recognised impairment loss is
reversed only if there has been a change in
the assumptions used to determine the asset''s
recoverable amount since the last impairment
loss was recognised. The reversal is limited
so that the carrying amount of the asset
does not exceed its recoverable amount, nor
exceed the carrying amount that would have
been determined, net of depreciation, had no
impairment loss been recognised for the asset
in prior years. Such reversal is recognised in
the statement of profit or loss unless the asset
is carried at a revalued amount, in which case,
the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful
lives are tested for impairment annually at
the CGU level, as appropriate, and when
circumstances indicate that the carrying value
may be impaired.

---

Mar 31, 2024

2.2 Summary of Material accounting policies

a) Current versus non- current classification

The Company presents assets and liabilities in the balance sheet based on current/ noncurrent classification. An asset is treated as current when it is:

• Expected to be realised or intended to sold or consumed in normal operating cycle

• Held primarily for the purpose of trading

• Expected to be realised within twelve months after the reporting period, or

• Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period.

All other assets are classified as non-current A liability is current when:

• It is expected to be settled in normal operating cycle

• It is held primarily for the purpose of trading

• It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period, or

• There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period

The Company classifies all other liabilities as non-current.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as non-current assets and liabilities.

The operating cycle is the time between publishing of advertisement and circulation of newspaper and its realisation in cash and cash equivalents. The Company has identified twelve months as its operating cycle.

b) Foreign currencies

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded by the Company at their respective functional currency spot rates at the date the transaction first qualifies for recognition. However, for practical reasons, the Company uses an average rate if the average approximates the actual rate at the date of the transaction.

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the functional currency spot rates of exchange at the reporting date.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items or on restatement of the Company’s monetary items at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the period, or reported in previous financial statements, are recognized as income or as expenses in the period in which they arise. They are deferred in equity if they relate to qualifying cash flow hedges.

Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the dates of the initial transactions.

Exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or before March 31, 2015:

• Exchange differences on long-term foreign currency monetary items relating to acquisition of depreciable assets are adjusted to the carrying cost of the assets and depreciated over the balance life of the assets in accordance with option available under Ind-AS 101 (first time adoption).

Exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or after April 1, 2015:

• The exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or after April 1, 2015 is charged off or credited to the statement of profit & loss account under Ind-AS.

c) Fair value measurement

The Company measures financial instruments, such as, derivatives and certain investments at fair value at each reporting/ balance sheet date.

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either:

• In the principal market for the asset or liability, or

• In the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability

The principal or the most advantageous market must be accessible by the Company.

The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest.

A fair value measurement of a non-financial asset takes into account a market participant’s ability to generate economic benefits by using the asset in its highest and best use or by selling it to another market participant that would use the asset in its highest and best use.

The Company uses valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, maximising the use of relevant observable inputs and minimising the use of unobservable inputs.

All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorised within the fair value hierarchy, described as follows, based on the

lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole:

• Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

• Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly''

• Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability

For assets and liabilities that are recognised in the financial statements on a recurring basis, the Company determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing categorisation (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.

For the purpose of fair value disclosures, the Company has determined classes of assets and liabilities on the basis of the nature, characteristics and risks of the asset or liability and the level of the fair value hierarchy as explained above.

This Note summarises accounting policy for fair value. Other fair value related disclosures are given in the relevant notes :

• Disclosures for valuation methods, significant estimates and assumptions (Note 40)

• Quantitative disclosures of fair value measurement hierarchy (Note 40)

• Investments at Fair Value through profit and loss (Note 6B)

• Investment properties (Note 4)

• Financial instruments (including those carried at amortised cost) (Note 6D)

d) Revenue recognition and other income

Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured, regardless of when the payment is being made.

Revenue towards satisfaction of a performance obligation is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price of goods sold and services rendered is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

The Company applies the practical expedient to not to disclose the amount of the remaining performance obligations for contracts with original expected duration of less than one year.

Revenue excludes taxes collected from customers. The Company has concluded that it is the principal in all of its revenue arrangements since it is the primary obligor in all the revenue arrangements as it has pricing latitude and is also exposed to inventory and credit risks.

Goods and Service Tax (GST) is not received by the Company on its own account. Rather, it is tax collected on behalf of the government. Accordingly, it is excluded from revenue.

Contract asset represents the Company’s right to consideration in exchange for services that the Company has transferred to a customer when that right is conditioned on something other than the passage of time.

When there is unconditional right to receive cash, and only passage of time is required to do invoicing, the same is presented as Unbilled receivable.

A contract liability is recognised if a payment is received or a payment is due (whichever is earlier) from a customer before the Company transfers the related goods or services and the Company is under an obligation to provide only the goods or services under the contract. Contract liabilities are recognised as revenue when the Company performs under the contract (i.e., transfers control of the related goods or services to the customer).

The specific recognition criteria described below must also be met before revenue is recognised:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as an d when advertisement is published/displayed and when it is “probable” that the Company will collect the consideration it is entitled to in exchange for the services it transfers to the customer.

Revenue from advertisement is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Sale of Newspaper & Publications, Waste Papers and Scrap

Revenue from the sale of newspaper & publications are recognised when the newspaper and publications are delivered to the distributor. Revenue from the sale of waste papers/scrap is recognised when the control is transferred to the buyer, usually on delivery of the waste papers/scrap.

Revenue from the sale of goods is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various

discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

For contracts with a significant financing component, an entity adjusts the promised consideration to reflect the time value of money.

Management also extends a right to return to its customers which it believes is a form of variable consideration. Revenue recognition is limited to amounts for which it is “highly probable” a significant reversal will not occur (i.e. it is highly probable the goods will not be returned). A refund liability is established for the expected amount of refunds and credits to be issued to customers.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognised by reference to stage of completion ofjob work as per terms of agreement.

Revenue from job work is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Forfeiture of security deposits:

Forfeiture of security deposits arises on account of the Company’s main operating activity. The same is presented as part of “Other Operating Revenue”.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting categorised in Free Commercial Time (FCT) and Non Free Commercial Time (Non FCT) is recognized on the airing of client''s commercials.

Revenue from radio broadcasting is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various

discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from digital platforms by display of internet advertisements are typically contracted for a period ranging between zero to twelve months.

Revenue from online advertising is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Revenue in this respect is recognized as and when advertisement is displayed. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue.

Shine.com Subscription Revenue

Revenue from subscription of package is recognized over the period of the subscription usually ranging between one to twelve months and is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. This is in accordance with the established principles of accrual accounting. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue.

Revenue from Shine Learning Services

Revenue from Resume or course service is recognised over the time as and when the Company satisfies identified performance obligations by rendering service to a customer. Revenue is being measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Revenue from SMS pushes/e-mails

Revenue is recognised after the delivery of SMS pushes/e-mails and is measured at the

amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered as part of the contract.

Interest income

For all debt instruments measured either at amortised cost, interest income is recorded using the effective interest rate (EIR). EIR is the rate that exactly discounts the estimated future cash payments or receipts over the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset or to the amortised cost of a financial liability. When calculating the effective interest rate, the Company estimates the expected cash flows by considering all the contractual terms of the financial instrument (for example, prepayment, extension, call and similar options) but does not consider the expected credit losses. Interest income is included in other income in the statement of profit and loss.

Dividends

Revenue is recognised when the Company’s right to receive the payment is established, which is generally when shareholders approve the dividend.

e) Government grants

Government grants are recognised where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all attached conditions will be complied with. When the grant relates to an expense item, it is recognised as income on a systematic basis over the periods that the related costs, for which it is intended to compensate, are expensed. When the grant relates to an asset, it is recognised as income in equal amounts over the expected useful life of the related asset.

When the Company receives grants for purchase of property, plant and equipment, the

asset and the grant are recorded at fair value amounts and released to statement of profit and loss over the expected useful life of the asset.

f) Taxes

Current income tax

Tax expense is the aggregate amount included in the determination of profit or loss for the period in respect of current tax an d deferred tax.

Current income tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted, at the reporting date.

Current income tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss (either in other comprehensive income or in equity). Current tax items are recognised in correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation and establishes provisions where appropriate.

Appendix C to Ind AS 12, Income Taxes dealing with accounting for uncertainty over income tax treatments does not have any material impact on financial statements of the Company.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax is provided considering temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes at the reporting date.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences.

Deferred tax assets are recognised for all deductible temporary differences, the carry forward of unused tax credits and any unused tax losses. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable with convincing evidence that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary differences, and the carry forward of unused tax credits an d unused tax losses can be utilised.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised. Unrecognised deferred tax assets are re-assessed at each reporting date and are recognised to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profits will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in 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 reporting date.

Deferred tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss. Deferred tax items are recognised in correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset if and only if it has a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets and current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities which intend either to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis, or to realise the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously, in each future period in which significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities or assets are expected to be settled or recovered.

MAT Credits are in the form of unused tax credits that are carried fo rward by the company for a specified period of time. Accordingly, MAT Credit Entitlement are grouped with Deferred Tax Asset in the Balance Sheet. The company reviews at each balance sheet date the reasonable certainty to recover deferred tax asset including MAT Credit Entitlement.

GST/ value added taxes paid on acquisition of assets or on incurring expenses

Expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST/ value added taxes paid, except:

• When the tax incurred on a purchase of assets or services is not recoverable from the taxation authority, in which case, the tax paid is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense item, as applicable

• When receivables and payables are stated with the amount of tax included

The net amount of tax recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of receivables or payables in the balance sheet.

g) Non- current assets held for sale

Non-current assets (or disposal groups) are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use and a sale is considered highly probable. They are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, except for assets such as deferred tax assets, assets arising from employee benefits, financial assets and contractual rights under insurance contracts, which are specifically exempt from this requirement.

Property, plant and equipment and intangible are not depreciated, or amortised assets once classified as held for sale.

Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale are presented separately from other items in the balance sheet.

h) Property, plant and equipment

The Company has applied for one time transition option of considering the carrying cost of Property, Plant & Equipment, Investment properties and Intangible assets on the transition date i.e. April 1, 2015 as the deemed cost under Ind-AS.

Construction in progress is stated at cost, net of accumulated impairment losses, if any. Plant and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Such cost includes the cost of replacing part of the plant and equipment and borrowing costs for longterm construction projects if the recognition criteria are met.

Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Recognition:

The cost of an item of property, plant and equipment shall be recognised as an asset if, and only if:

(a) it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the entity; and

(b) the cost of the item can be measured reliably.

All other expenses on existing assets, including day- to- day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

When significant parts of plant and equipment are required to be replaced at intervals, the Company depreciates them separately based on their specific useful lives. Likewise, when a major inspection is performed, its cost is

recognised in the carrying amount of the plant and equipment as a replacement if the recognition criteria are satisfied. All other repair and maintenance costs are recognised in profit or loss as incurred. The present value of the expected cost for the decommissioning of an asset after its use is included in the cost of the respective asset if the recognition criteria for a provision are met.

Value for individual assets acquired from ''The Hindustan Times Limited'' (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent expert at the time of acquisition. Other assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The Company identifies and determines cost of asset significant to the total cost of the asset having useful life that is materially different from that of the remaining life.

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of their useful life or the lease term, unless the entity expects to use the assets beyond the lease term.

The Company, based on technical assessment made by the management depreciates certain assets over estimated useful lives which are different from the useful life prescribed in Schedule ll to the Companies Act, 2013. The management has estimated, supported by technical assessment, the useful lives of certain

plant and machinery as 16 to 21.1 years. These useful lives are higher than those indicated in Schedule II. The management believes that these estimated useful lives are realistic and reflect fair approximation of the period over which the assets are likely to be used.

Property, Plant and Equipment which are added/ disposed off during the year, depreciation is provided on pro-rata basis with reference to the month of addition/deletion.

An item of property, plant and equipment and any significant part initially recognised is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the income statement when the asset is derecognised.

Subsequent expenditure can be capitalised only if it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the expenditure will flow to the company and cost of the item can be measured reliably.

Expenditure directly attributable to construction activity is capitalized. Other indirect costs incurred during the construction periods which are not directly attributable to construction activity are charged to Statement of Profit and Loss. Reinvested income earned during the construction period is adjusted against the total of indirect expenditure.

The residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation of property, plant and equipment are reviewed at each financial year end and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

i) Investment properties

Investment properties are properties (land and buildings) that are held for long-term rental yields and/or for capital appreciation. Investment properties are measured initially at

cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment loss, if any.

The Company depreciates building component of investment property over 30 years from the date property is ready for possession.

Though the Company measures investment property using cost based measurement, the fair value of investment property is disclosed in the notes. Fair values are determined based on an annual evaluation performed by an accredited external independent valuer.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has elected to continue with the carrying value of all of its Investment properties recognised as at April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and use that carrying value as the deemed cost of the Investment Properties.

Investment properties are derecognised either when they have been disposed of or when they are permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefit is expected from their disposal. The difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset is recognised in profit or loss in the period of de-recognition.

Investment properties that meet the criteria to be classified as held for sale are measured and presented in accordance with Ind AS 105.

j) Intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Internally generated intangibles, excluding capitalised development costs, are not capitalised and the related expenditure is reflected in profit or loss in the period in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert at the time of acquisition.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has elected to continue with the carrying value of all of its Intangible assets recognised as at April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and use that carrying value as the deemed cost of the Intangible assets.

The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. The amortisation period and the amortisation method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at the end of each reporting period. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are considered to modify the amortisation period or method, as appropriate, and are treated as changes in accounting estimates.

The amortisation expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortised, but are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. The assessment of indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether the indefinite life continues to be supportable. If not, the change in useful life from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis.

An intangible asset is derecognised upon disposal (i.e., at the date the recipient obtains

control) or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising upon de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the statement of profit or loss.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized on straight line basis using the estimated useful life as follows:

Subsequent expenditure is capitalised only when it increases the future economic benefits embodied in the specific asset to which it relates. All other expenditure is recognised in profit or loss as incurred.

k) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest, amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs, if any, directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized, if any. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they occur.

l) Leases

A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

The Company recognises right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term at the lease commencement date. The cost of the right-of-use asset measured at inception shall comprise of the amount of the initial measurement of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received, plus any initial direct costs incurred and an estimate of costs to be incurred by the lessee in dismantling and removing the underlying asset or restoring the underlying asset or site on which it is located. The right-of-use assets is subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated depreciation, accumulated impairment losses, if any and adjusted for any remeasurement of the lease liability. The right-of-use assets is depreciated using the straight-line method from the commencement date over the shorter of lease term or useful life of right-of-use asset. The estimated useful lives of right-of-use assets are determined on the same basis as those of property, plant and equipment. Right-of-use assets are tested for impairment whenever there is any indication that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Impairment loss, if any, is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

The Company measures the lease liability at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date of the lease. The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease, if that rate can be readily determined. If that rate cannot be readily determined, the Company uses incremental borrowing rate. The lease payments shall include fixed payments, variable lease payments, residual value guarantees, exercise price of a purchase option where the Company is reasonably certain to exercise that option and payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the lessee exercising an option to terminate the lease. After the commencement

date, the amount of lease liabilities is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and reduced for the lease payments made. The lease liability is subsequently remeasured by increasing the carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease liability, reducing the carrying amount to reflect the lease payments made and remeasuring the carrying amount to reflect any reassessment or lease modifications or to reflect revised insubstance fixed lease payments. The Company recognises the amount of the re-measurement of lease liability due to modification as an adjustment to the right-of-use asset and statement of profit and loss depending upon the nature of modification. Where the carrying amount of the right-of-use asset is reduced to zero and there is a further reduction in the measurement of the lease liability, the Company recognises any remaining amount of the remeasurement in statement of profit and loss.

The Company has elected not to apply the requirements of Ind AS 116 to short-term leases of all assets that have a lease term of 12 months or less and leases fo r which the un derlying asset is of low value. The lease payments associated with these leases are recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

As a practical expedient a lessee (the company) has elected, by class of underlying asset, not to separate lease components from any associated non-lease components. A lessee (the company) accounts for the lease component and the associated non-lease components as a single lease component.

Sale and leaseback

A sale and leaseback transaction is where the Company sells an asset and immediately reacquires the use of the asset by entering into a lease with the buyer. A sale occurs when control of the underlying asset passes to the buyer. A lease liability is recognised, the associated property, plant and equipment asset is derecognised, and a right of use asset is recognised at the proportion of the carrying value relating to the right retained. Any gain or loss arising relates to the rights transferred to the buyer.

At the inception of the lease the Company classifies each of its leases as either an operating lease or a finance lease. The Company recognises lease payments received under operating leases as income on a straight- line basis over the lease term. In case of a finance lease, finance income is recognised over the lease term based on a pattern reflecting a constant periodic rate of return on the lessor’s net investment in the lease.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

Raw materials, components and other supplies held for use in the production of finished

products are not written down below cost except in cases where material prices have declined and it is estimated that the cost of the finished products will exceed their net realisable value.

The comparison of cost and net realisable value is made on an item-by-item basis.

n) Impairment of non-financial assets

For assets with definite useful life, the company assesses, at each reporting date, whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s (CGU) fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. Recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. When the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.

In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining fair value less costs of disposal, recent market transactions are taken into account. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used. These calculations are corroborated by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for publicly traded Company’s or other available fair value indicators.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations, which are prepared separately for each of the Company’s CGUs to which the individual assets are allocated. These budgets and forecast calculations generally cover a period of five

years. For longer periods, a long-term growth rate is calculated and applied to project future cash flows after the fifth year. To estimate cash flow projections beyond periods covered by the most recent budgets/forecasts, the Company extrapolates cash flow projections in the budget using a steady or declining growth rate for subsequent years, unless an increasing rate can be justified. In any case, this growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the products, industries, or country or countries in which the entity operates, or for the market in which the asset is used.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

An assessment is made at each reporting date to determine whether there is an indication that previously recognised impairment losses no longer exist or have decreased. If such indication exists, the Company estimates the asset''s or CGU''s recoverable amount. A previously recognised impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the assumptions used to determine the asset''s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognised. The reversal is limited so that the carrying amount of the asset does not exceed its recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognised in the statement of profit or loss unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case, the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment annually at the CGU level, as appropriate, and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.

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Mar 31, 2023

1. Corporate information

HT Media Limited (“HTML” or “the Company”) is a public company domiciled in India and incorporated under the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956. Its shares are listed on the National stock exchange (NSE) and Bombay stock exchange (BSE).

The Company publishes ‘Hindustan Times’, an English daily, and ‘Mint’, a Business paper daily except on Sunday and undertakes commercial printing jobs. The Company is also engaged into the business of providing entertainment, radio broadcast and all other related activities through its Radio Stations operating under brand name ‘Fever 104’, ‘Fever’ and ‘Radio Nasha’. The digital business of the Company comprises of various online platforms such as ‘shine.com’, etc. The registered office of the Company is located at 18-20, K.G. Marg, New Delhi-110001.

The Company derives revenue primarily from the sale of the above mentioned publications, advertisements published therein, by undertaking printing jobs and airtime advertisements aired at the aforesaid radio stations. Digital business contributes to the Company’s revenue, by way of display of advertisements on these websites and related services.

Information on other related party relationships of the Company is provided in Note 36.

The financial statements of the Company for the year ended March 31, 2023 are authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors on May 18, 2023.

2. Significant accounting policies followed by company

2.1 Basis of preparation

The standalone financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with the Indian Accounting Standards (‘Ind-AS’) specified in the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015 (as amended) under Section 133 of the Companies Act 2013 (the “accounting principles generally accepted in India”).

The accounting policies are applied consistently to all the periods presented in the financial statements.

The standalone financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for the following assets and liabilities which have been measured at fair value:

- Derivative financial instruments.

- Certain financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value (refer accounting policy regarding financial instruments).

- Defined benefit plans - plan assets measured at fair value.

The standalone financial statements are presented in Indian Rupees (INR), which is also the Company’s functional currency. All amounts disclosed in the financial statements and notes have been rounded off to the nearest lakhs as per the requirement of Schedule III, unless otherwise stated.

2.2 Summary of significant accounting policies

a) Current versus non- current classification

The Company presents assets and liabilities in the balance sheet based on current/ non-current classification. An asset is treated as current when it is:

• Expected to be realised or intended to sold or consumed in normal operating cycle

• Held primarily for the purpose of trading

• Expected to be realised within twelve months after the reporting period, or

• Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period.

All other assets are classified as non-current A liability is current when:

• It is expected to be settled in normal operating cycle

• It is held primarily for the purpose of trading

• It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period, or

• There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period

The Company classifies all other liabilities as non-current.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as non-current assets and liabilities.

The operating cycle is the time between publishing of advertisement and circulation of newspaper and its realisation in cash and cash equivalents. The Company has identified twelve months as its operating cycle.

b) Foreign currencies

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded by the Company at their respective functional currency spot rates at the date the transaction first qualifies for recognition. However, for practical reasons, the Company uses an average rate if the average approximates the actual rate at the date of the transaction.

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the functional currency spot rates of exchange at the reporting date.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items or on restatement of the Company’s monetary items at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the period, or reported in previous financial statements, are recognized as income or as expenses in the period in which they arise. They are deferred in equity if they relate to qualifying cash flow hedges.

Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the dates of the initial transactions.

Exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or before March 31, 2015:

- Exchange differences on long-term foreign currency monetary items relating to acquisition of depreciable assets are adjusted to the carrying cost of the assets and depreciated over the balance life of the assets in accordance with option available under Ind-AS 101 (first time adoption).

Exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or after April 1, 2015:

- The exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or refinanced on or after April 1, 2015 is charged off or credited to the statement of profit & loss account under Ind-AS.

c) Fair value measurement

The Company measures financial instruments, such as, derivatives and certain investments at fair value at each reporting/ balance sheet date.

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either:

• In the principal market for the asset or liability, or

• In the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability

The principal or the most advantageous market must be accessible by the Company.

The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest.

A fair value measurement of a non-financial asset takes into account a market participant’s ability to generate economic benefits by using the asset in its highest and best use or by selling it to another market participant that would use the asset in its highest and best use.

The Company uses valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, maximising the use of relevant observable inputs and minimising the use of unobservable inputs.

All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorised within the fair value hierarchy, described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole:

• Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

• Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly

• Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability

For assets and liabilities that are recognised in the financial statements on a recurring basis, the Company determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by reassessing categorisation (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.

For the purpose of fair value disclosures, the Company has determined classes of assets and liabilities on the basis of the nature, characteristics and risks of the asset or liability and the level of the fair value hierarchy as explained above.

This Note summarises accounting policy for fair value. Other fair value related disclosures are given in the relevant notes :

• Disclosures for valuation methods, significant estimates and assumptions (Note 40)

• Quantitative disclosures of fair value measurement hierarchy (Note 40)

• Investments at Fair Value through profit and loss (Note 6B)

• Investment properties (Note 4)

• Financial instruments (including those carried at amortised cost) (Note 6D)

d) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured, regardless of when the payment is being made.

Revenue towards satisfaction of a performance obligation is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price of goods sold and services rendered is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Revenue excludes taxes collected from customers.

The Company has concluded that it is the principal in all of its revenue arrangements since it is the primary obligor in all the revenue arrangements as it has pricing latitude and is also exposed to inventory and credit risks.

Goods and Service Tax (GST) is not received by the Company on its own account. Rather, it is tax collected on behalf of the government. Accordingly, it is excluded from revenue.

Contract asset represents the Company’s right to consideration in exchange for services that the Company has transferred to a customer when

that right is conditioned on something other than the passage of time.

When there is unconditional right to receive cash, and only passage of time is required to do invoicing, the same is presented as Unbilled receivable.

A contract liability is recognised if a payment is received or a payment is due (whichever is earlier) from a customer before the Company transfers the related goods or services and the Company is under an obligation to provide only the goods or services under the contract. Contract liabilities are recognised as revenue when the Company performs under the contract (i.e., transfers control of the related goods or services to the customer).

The specific recognition criteria described below must also be met before revenue is recognised:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published/ displayed and when it is “probable” that the Company will collect the consideration it is entitled to in exchange for the services it transfers to the customer.

Revenue from advertisement is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Sale of Newspaper & Publications, Waste Papers and Scrap

Revenue from the sale of newspaper & publications are recognised when the newspaper and publications are delivered to the distributor. Revenue from the sale of waste papers/scrap is recognised when the control is transferred to the buyer, usually on delivery of the waste papers/scrap.

Revenue from the sale of goods is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable

consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

For contracts with a significant financing component, an entity adjusts the promised consideration to reflect the time value of money.

Management also extends a right to return to its customers which it believes is a form of variable consideration. Revenue recognition is limited to amounts for which it is “highly probable” a significant reversal will not occur (i.e. it is highly probable the goods will not be returned). A refund liability is established for the expected amount of refunds and credits to be issued to customers.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognised by reference to stage of completion of job work as per terms of agreement.

Revenue from job work is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting categorised in Free Commercial Time (FCT) and Non Free Commercial Time (Non FCT) is recognized on the airing of client’s commercials.

Revenue from radio broadcasting is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from digital platforms by display of internet advertisements are typically contracted for a period ranging between zero to twelve months.

Revenue from online advertising is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Revenue in this respect is recognized as and when advertisement is displayed. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue/ contract liability.

Revenue from subscription of packages of placement of job postings on ‘shine.com’ is recognized at the time the job postings are displayed based upon customer usage patterns, or upon expiry of the subscription package whichever is earlier and is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Revenue from Job Fair and Resume Services

Revenue from Job Fair and Resume services is recognised upon completion terms of the contract with customers and is measured at the amount of transaction price (net of variable consideration) allocated to that performance obligation. The transaction price is net of variable consideration on account of various discounts and schemes offered by the Company as part of the contract.

Interest income

For all debt instruments measured either at amortised cost, interest income is recorded using the effective interest rate (EIR). EIR is the rate that exactly discounts the estimated future cash payments or receipts over the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset or to the amortised cost of a financial liability. When calculating the effective interest rate, the Company estimates the expected cash flows by considering all the contractual terms of the financial instrument (for example, prepayment, extension, call and similar options) but does not consider the expected credit losses. Interest income is included in other income in the statement of profit and loss.

Dividends

Revenue is recognised when the Company’s right to receive the payment is established, which is generally when shareholders approve the dividend.

e) Government grants

Government grants are recognised where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all attached conditions will be complied with. When the grant relates to an expense item, it is recognised as income on a systematic basis over the periods that the related costs, for which it is intended to compensate, are expensed. When the grant relates to an asset, it is recognised as income in equal amounts over the expected useful life of the related asset.

When the Company receives grants for purchase of property, plant and equipment, the asset and the grant are recorded at fair value amounts and released to statement of profit and loss over the expected useful life of the asset.

f) Taxes

Current income tax

Tax expense is the aggregate amount included in the determination of profit or loss for the period in respect of current tax and deferred tax.

Current income tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted, at the reporting date.

Current income tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss (either in other comprehensive income or in equity). Current tax items are recognised in correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation and establishes provisions where appropriate.

Appendix C to Ind AS 12, Income Taxes dealing with accounting for uncertainty over income tax treatments does not have any material impact on financial statements of the Company.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax is provided considering temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes at the reporting date.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences.

Deferred tax assets are recognised for all deductible temporary differences, the carry forward of unused tax credits and any unused tax losses. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable with convincing evidence that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary differences, and the carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses can be utilised.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow

all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised. Unrecognised deferred tax assets are re-assessed at each reporting date and are recognised to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profits will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in 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 reporting date.

Deferred tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss. Deferred tax items are recognised in correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset if and only if it has a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets and current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities which intend either to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis, or to realise the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously, in each future period in which significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities or assets are expected to be settled or recovered.

MAT Credits are in the form of unused tax credits that are carried forward by the company for a specified period of time. Accordingly, MAT Credit Entitlement are grouped with Deferred Tax Asset in the Balance Sheet. The company reviews at each balance sheet date the reasonable certainty to recover deferred tax asset including MAT Credit Entitlement.

GST/ value added taxes paid on acquisition of assets or on incurring expenses

Expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST/ value added taxes paid, except:

• When the tax incurred on a purchase of assets or services is not recoverable from the taxation authority, in which case, the tax paid is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense item, as applicable

• When receivables and payables are stated with the amount of tax included

The net amount of tax recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of receivables or payables in the balance sheet.

g) Non- current assets held for sale

Non-current assets (or disposal groups) are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use and a sale is considered highly probable. They are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, except for assets such as deferred tax assets, assets arising from employee benefits, financial assets and contractual rights under insurance contracts, which are specifically exempt from this requirement.

h) Property, plant and equipment

The Company has applied for one time transition option of considering the carrying cost of Property, Plant & Equipment, Investment properties and Intangible assets on the transition date i.e. April 1, 2015 as the deemed cost under Ind-AS.

Construction in progress is stated at cost, net of accumulated impairment losses, if any. Plant and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Such cost includes the cost of replacing part of the plant and equipment and borrowing costs for long-term construction projects if the recognition criteria are met.

Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any

directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Recognition:

The cost of an item of property, plant and equipment shall be recognised as an asset if, and only if:

(a) it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the entity; and

(b) the cost of the item can be measured reliably.

All other expenses on existing assets, including day- to- day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

When significant parts of plant and equipment are required to be replaced at intervals, the Company depreciates them separately based on their specific useful lives. Likewise, when a major inspection is performed, its cost is recognised in the carrying amount of the plant and equipment as a replacement if the recognition criteria are satisfied. All other repair and maintenance costs are recognised in profit or loss as incurred. The present value of the expected cost for the decommissioning of an asset after its use is included in the cost of the respective asset if the recognition criteria for a provision are met.

Value for individual assets acquired from ‘The Hindustan Times Limited’ (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent expert at the time of acquisition. Other assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The Company identifies and determines cost of asset significant to the total cost of the asset having useful life that is materially different from that of the remaining life.

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

Type of asset	Useful lives estimated by management (Years)
Factory Buildings	5 to 30
Buildings (other than factory buildings)	3 to 60
Plant & Machinery	1 to 21
Office Equipments	1 to 5
Furniture and Fixtures	2 to 10
Vehicles	8

The Company, based on technical assessment made by the management depreciates certain assets over estimated useful lives which are different from the useful life prescribed in Schedule ll to the Companies Act, 2013. The management has estimated, supported by technical assessment, the useful lives of certain plant and machinery as 16 to 21.1 years. These useful lives are higher than those indicated in Schedule II. The management believes that these estimated useful lives are realistic and reflect fair approximation of the period over which the assets are likely to be used.

Property, Plant and Equipment which are added/ disposed off during the year, depreciation is provided on pro-rata basis with reference to the month of addition/deletion.

An item of property, plant and equipment and any significant part initially recognised is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the income statement when the asset is derecognised.

Subsequent expenditure can be capitalised only if it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the expenditure will flow to the company.

Expenditure directly attributable to construction activity is capitalized. Other indirect costs incurred during the construction periods which are not directly attributable to construction activity are charged to Statement of Profit and Loss. Reinvested income earned during the construction period is adjusted against the total of indirect expenditure.

The residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation of property, plant and equipment are reviewed at each financial year end and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

i) Investment properties

Investment properties are properties (land and buildings) that are held for long-term rental yields and/or for capital appreciation. Investment properties are measured initially at cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment loss, if any.

The Company depreciates building component of investment property over 30 years from the date property is ready for possession.

Though the Company measures investment property using cost based measurement, the fair value of investment property is disclosed in the notes. Fair values are determined based on an annual evaluation performed by an accredited external independent valuer.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has elected to continue with the carrying value of all of its Investment properties recognised as at April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and use that carrying value as the deemed cost of the Investment Properties.

Investment properties are derecognised either when they have been disposed of or when they are permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefit is expected from their disposal. The difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset is

recognised in profit or loss in the period of derecognition.

Investment properties that meet the criteria to be classified as held for sale are measured and presented in accordance with Ind AS 105.

j) Intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Internally generated intangibles, excluding capitalised development costs, are not capitalised and the related expenditure is reflected in profit or loss in the period in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert at the time of acquisition.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has elected to continue with the carrying value of all of its Intangible assets recognised as at April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and use that carrying value as the deemed cost of the Intangible assets.

The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. The amortisation period and the amortisation method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at the end of each reporting period. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are considered to modify the amortisation period or method, as appropriate, and are treated as changes in accounting estimates.

The amortisation expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortised, but are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cashgenerating unit level. The assessment of indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether the indefinite life continues to be supportable. If not, the change in useful life from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis.

An intangible asset is derecognised upon disposal (i.e., at the date the recipient obtains control) or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising upon de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the statement of profit or loss.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized on straight line basis using the estimated useful life as follows:

Intangible assets	Useful lives
	(in years)
Website Development	3 - 6
Software licenses	1 - 6
License Fees (One time entry fee)	15

k) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest, amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs, if any, directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized, if any. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they occur.

l) Leases

A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.

Company as a lessee

The Company recognises right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term at the lease commencement date. The cost of the right-of-use asset measured at inception shall comprise of the amount of the initial measurement of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received, plus any initial direct costs incurred and an estimate of costs to be incurred by the lessee in dismantling and removing the underlying asset or restoring the underlying asset or site on which it is located. The right-of-use assets is subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated depreciation, accumulated impairment losses, if any and adjusted for any remeasurement of the lease liability. The right-of-use assets is depreciated using the straight-line method from the commencement date over the shorter of lease term or useful life of right-of-use asset. The estimated useful lives of right-of-use assets are determined on the same basis as those of property, plant and equipment. Right-of-use assets are tested for impairment whenever there is any indication that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Impairment loss, if any, is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

The Company measures the lease liability at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date of the lease. The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease, if that rate can be readily determined. If that rate cannot be readily determined, the Company uses incremental borrowing rate. The lease payments shall include fixed payments, variable lease payments, residual value guarantees, exercise price of a purchase option where the Company is reasonably certain to exercise that option and payments of penalties

for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the lessee exercising an option to terminate the lease. After the commencement date, the amount of lease liabilities is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and reduced for the lease payments made. The lease liability is subsequently remeasured by increasing the carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease liability, reducing the carrying amount to reflect the lease payments made and remeasuring the carrying amount to reflect any reassessment or lease modifications or to reflect revised in-substance fixed lease payments. The Company recognises the amount of the re-measurement of lease liability due to modification as an adjustment to the right-of-use asset and statement of profit and loss depending upon the nature of modification. Where the carrying amount of the right-of-use asset is reduced to zero and there is a further reduction in the measurement of the lease liability, the Company recognises any remaining amount of the re-measurement in statement of profit and loss.

The Company has elected not to apply the requirements of Ind AS 116 to short-term leases of all assets that have a lease term of 12 months or less and leases for which the underlying asset is of low value. The lease payments associated with these leases are recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

As a practical expedient a lessee (the company) has elected, by class of underlying asset, not to separate lease components from any associated non-lease components. A lessee (the company) accounts for the lease component and the associated non-lease components as a single lease component.

Sale and leaseback

A sale and leaseback transaction is where the Company sells an asset and immediately reacquires the use of the asset by entering into a lease with the buyer. A sale occurs when control of the underlying asset passes to the buyer. A lease liability is recognised, the associated property, plant and equipment asset is derecognised, and a right of use asset is recognised at the proportion of the carrying

value relating to the right retained. Any gain or loss arising relates to the rights transferred to the buyer.

Company as a lessor

At the inception of the lease the Company classifies each of its leases as either an operating lease or a finance lease. The Company recognises lease payments received under operating leases as income on a straight- line basis over the lease term. In case of a finance lease, finance income is recognised over the lease term based on a pattern reflecting a constant periodic rate of return on the lessor’s net investment in the lease.

m) Inventories

Inventories are valued as follows :

Raw	Lower of cost and net realizable
materials,	value. However, material and
stores and	other items held for use in the
spares	production of inventories are not written down below cost if the finished products in which they will be incorporated are expected to be sold at or above cost. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.
Work- in-	Lower of cost and net realizable
progress	value. Cost includes direct
and finished	materials and a proportion
goods	of manufacturing overheads based on normal operating capacity. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.
Scrap and waste papers	At net realizable value

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

n) Impairment of non-financial assets

For assets with definite useful life, the company assesses, at each reporting date, whether there

is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s (CGU) fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. Recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. When the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.

In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining fair value less costs of disposal, recent market transactions are taken into account. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used. These calculations are corroborated by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for publicly traded Company’s or other available fair value indicators.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations, which are prepared separately for each of the Company’s CGUs to which the individual assets are allocated. These budgets and forecast calculations generally cover a period of five years. For longer periods, a long-term growth rate is calculated and applied to project future cash flows after the fifth year. To estimate cash flow projections beyond periods covered by the most recent budgets/forecasts, the Company extrapolates cash flow projections in the budget using a steady or declining growth rate for subsequent years, unless an increasing rate can be justified. In any case, this growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the products, industries, or country or countries in which the entity operates, or for the market in which the asset is used.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognised in the statement of profit and loss.

An assessment is made at each reporting date to determine whether there is an indication that previously recognised impairment losses no longer exist or have decreased. If such indication exists, the Company estimates the asset’s or CGU’s recoverable amount. A previously recognised impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the assumptions used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognised. The reversal is limited so that the carrying amount of the asset does not exceed its recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognised in the statement of profit or loss unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case, the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment annually at the CGU level, as appropriate, and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.

o) Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. When the Company expects some or all of a provision to be reimbursed, for example, under an insurance contract, the reimbursement is recognised as a separate asset, but only when the reimbursement is virtually certain. The expense relating to a provision is presented in the statement of profit and loss net of any reimbursement.

If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pretax rate that reflects, when appropriate, the risks specific to the liability. When discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as a finance cost.

p) Employee benefits

Short term employee benefits and defined contribution plans:

All employee benefits payable/available within twelve months of rendering the service are classified as short-term employee benefits. Benefits such as salaries, wages and bonus etc. are recognised in the statement of profit and loss in the period in which the employee renders the related service.

Employee benefit in the form of provident fund is a defined contribution scheme. The Company has no obligation, other than the contribution payable to the provident fund. The Company recognizes contribution payable to the provident fund scheme as an expense, when an employee renders the related service. If the contribution payable to the scheme for service received before the balance sheet date exceeds the contribution already paid, the deficit payable to the scheme is recognized as a liability after deducting the contribution already paid. If the contribution already paid exceeds the contribution due for services received before the balance sheet date, then excess is recognized as an asset to the extent that the pre-payment will lead to, for example, a reduction in future payment or a cash refund.

Gratuity

Gratuity is a defined benefit scheme. The cost of providing benefits under the defined benefit plan is determined using the projected unit credit method.

Re-measurements, comprising of actuarial gains and losses, the effect of the asset ceiling, excluding amounts included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability and the return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability), are recognised immediately in the balance sheet with a corresponding debit or credit to retained earnings through OCI in the period in which they occur. Re-measurements are not reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods.

Past service costs are recognised in profit or loss on the earlier of:

• The date of the plan amendment or curtailment, and

• The date that the Company recognises related restructuring cost

Net interest is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability or asset.

The Company recognises the following changes in the net defined benefit obligation as an expense in the Statement of profit and loss:

• Service costs comprising current service costs, past-service costs, gains and losses on curtailments and non-routine settlements; and

• Net interest expense or income Termination benefits

Termination benefits are payable when employment is terminated by the company before the normal retirement date. The Company recognises termination benefits at the earlier of the following dates: (a) when the company can no longer withdraw the offer of those benefits; and (b) when the Company recognises costs for a restructuring that is within the scope of Ind AS 37 and involves the payment of terminations benefits. Benefits falling due more than 12 months after the end of the reporting period are discounted to present value.

Compensated Absences

Accumulated leave, which is expected to be utilized within the next 12 months, is treated as short term employee benefit. The Company measures the expected cost of such absences as the additional amount that it expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement that has accumulated at the reporting date.

Re-measurements, comprising of actuarial gains and losses, are immediately taken to the statement of profit and loss and are not deferred. The Company presents the leave as a current liability in the balance sheet to the extent it does not have an unconditional right to defer its settlement for 12 months after the reporting date. Where Company has the unconditional legal and contractual right to defer the settlement for a period beyond 12 months, the same is presented as non- current liability.

q) Share-based payments

Employees (including senior executives) of the Company receive remuneration in the form of share-based payments, whereby employees render services as consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions).

Equity-settled transactions

The cost of equity-settled transactions is determined by the fair value at the date when the grant is made using an appropriate valuation model. The Company has availed option under Ind-AS 101, to apply intrinsic value method to the options already vested before the date of transition and applied Ind-AS 102 Share-based payment to equity instruments that remain unvested as of transition date.

That cost is recognised, together with a corresponding increase in share-based payment (SBP) reserves in equity, over the period in which the performance and/or service conditions are fulfilled in employee benefits expense. The cumulative expense recognised for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The statement of profit and loss expense or credit for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognised as at the beginning and end of that period and is recognised in employee benefits expense.

Service and non-market performance conditions are not taken into account when determining the grant date fair value of awards, but the likelihood of the conditions being met is assessed as part of the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. Market performance conditions are reflected within the grant date fair value. Any other conditions attached to an award, but without an associated service requirement, are considered to be non-vesting conditions. Non-vesting conditions are reflected in the fair value of an award and lead to an immediate expensing of an award unless there are also service and/or performance conditions.

No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest because non-market performance and/or service conditions have not been met. Where awards include a market or non-vesting condition, the transactions are treated as vested irrespective of whether the market or nonvesting condition is satisfied, provided that all other performance and/or service conditions are satisfied.

When the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, the minimum expense recognised is the expense had the terms had not been modified, if the original terms of the award are met. An additional expense is recognised for any modification that increases the total fair value of the share-based payment transaction, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee as measured at the date of modification. Where an award is cancelled by the entity or by the counterparty, any remaining element of the fair value of the award is expensed immediately through profit or loss.

The dilutive effect of outstanding options is reflected as additional share dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share.

r) Financial instruments

A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument of another entity.

Initial recognition and measurement

All financial assets (other than trade receivable which is recognised at transaction price as per Ind AS 115) are recognised initially at fair value plus, in the case of financial assets not recorded at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs that are attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset.

Subsequent measurement

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

• Debt instruments at amortised cost

• Debt instruments, derivatives and equity instruments at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)

• Equity instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI)

Debt instruments at amortised cost

A ‘debt instrument’ is measured at the amortised cost if both the following conditions are met:

a) The asset is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets for collecting contractual cash flows, and

b) Contractual terms of the asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest (SPPI) on the principal amount outstanding. After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate (EIR) method. Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortisation is included in finance income in the profit or loss. The losses arising from impairment are recognised in the profit or loss. This category generally applies to trade and

other receivables. For more information on receivables, refer to Note 10A.

Debt instruments at FVTPL

FVTPL is a residual category for debt instruments. Any debt instrument, which does not meet the criteria for categorization as at amortized cost or as FVTOCI, is classified as at FVTPL.

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

The net changes in fair value are recognised in the statement of profit and loss. Mutual Funds Debt instruments included within the FVTPL category are measured at fair value with all changes recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss as “Finance income from debt instruments at FVTPL” under the head “Other Income”.

Equity investments

All equity investments in scope of Ind-AS 109 are measured at fair value. Equity instruments which are held for trading and contingent consideration recognised by an acquirer in a business combination to which Ind-AS 103 applies are Ind-AS classified as at FVTPL. For all other equity instruments, the Company may make an irrevocable election to present in other comprehensive income subsequent changes in the fair value. The Company makes such election on an instrument-by-instrument basis. The classification is made on Initial recognition and is irrevocable.

If the Company decides to classify an equity instrument as at FVTOCI, then all fair value changes on the instrument, excluding dividends, are recognized in the OCI. There is no recycling of the amounts from OCI to P&L, even on sale of investment. However, the Company may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity.

Equity instruments included within the FVTPL category are measured at fair value with all changes recognized in the P&L.

De-recognition

A financial asset (or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or part of a Company of similar financial assets) is primarily derecognised (i.e. removed from the Company’s balance sheet) when:

• The rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired, or

• The Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a ‘pass-through’ arrangement; and either (a) the Company has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or (b) the Company has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset.

When the Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from an asset or has entered into a pass-through arrangement, it evaluates if and to what extent it has retained the risks and rewards of ownership. When it has neither transferred nor retained substantially all of the risks and rewards of the asset, nor transferred control of the asset, the Company continues to recognise the transferred asset to the extent of the Company continuing involvement. In that case, the Company also recognises an associated liability. The transferred asset and the associated liability are measured on a basis that reflects the rights and obligations that the Company has retained.

Continuing involvement that takes the form of a guarantee over the transferred asset is measured at the lower of the original carrying amount of the asset and the maximum amount of consideration that the Company could be required to repay.

In accordance with Ind-AS 109, the Company applies expected credit loss (ECL) model for measurement and recognition of impairment loss on the following financial assets and credit risk exposure:

a) Financial assets that are debt instruments, and are measured at amortised cost e.g., loans, debt securities, deposits, trade receivables and bank balance

b) Lease receivables under

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Mar 31, 2018

1.1 Summary of significant accounting policies

a) Foreign currencies

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded by the Company at their respective functional currency spot rates at the date the transaction first qualifies for recognition. However, for practical reasons, the Company uses an average rate if the average approximates the actual rate at the date of the transaction.

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the functional currency spot rates of exchange at the reporting date.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items or on restatement of the Company’s monetary items at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the year, or reported in previous financial statements, are recognized as income or as expenses in the year in which they arise.

Exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or before March 31, 2016:

- Exchange differences on long-term foreign currency monetary items relating to acquisition of depreciable assets are adjusted to the carrying cost of the assets and depreciated over the balance life of the assets in accordance with option available under Ind-AS 101 (First time adoption).

Exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or after April 1, 2016:

- The exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or after April 1, 2016 is charged off or credited to Statement of Profit & Loss account under Ind-AS.

Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the dates of the initial transactions.

b) Fair value measurement

The Company measures financial instruments, such as, derivatives and certain investments at fair value at each reporting/ balance sheet date.

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either:

- In the principal market for the asset or liability, or

- In the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability

The principal or the most advantageous market must be accessible by the Company.

The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest.

A fair value measurement of a non-financial asset takes into account a market participant’s ability to generate economic benefits by using the asset in its highest and best use or by selling it to another market participant that would use the asset in its highest and best use.

The Company uses valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, maximising the use of relevant observable inputs and minimising the use of unobservable inputs.

All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorised within the fair value hierarchy, described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole:

- Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

- Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly observable

- Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable

For assets and liabilities that are recognised in the financial statements on a recurring basis, the Company determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by reassessing categorisation (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.

For the purpose of fair value disclosures, the Company has determined classes of assets and liabilities on the basis of the nature, characteristics and risks of the asset or liability and the level of the fair value hierarchy as explained above.

This Note summarises accounting policy for fair value. Other fair value related disclosures are given in the relevant notes :

- Disclosures for valuation methods, significant estimates and assumptions (Note39)

- Quantitative disclosures of fair value measurement hierarchy (Note 39)

- Investment in unquoted equity shares (Note 6A & 6B)

- Investment properties (Note 4)

- Financial instruments (including those carried at amortised cost) (Note 39)

c) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured, regardless of when the payment is being made. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, taking into account contractually defined terms of payment and excluding taxes or duties collected on behalf of the government. The Company has concluded that it is the principal in all of its revenue arrangements since it is the primary obligor in all the revenue arrangements as it has pricing latitude and is also exposed to inventory and credit risks.

Goods and Service Tax (GST) is not received by the Company on its own account. Rather, it is tax collected on behalf of the government. Accordingly, it is excluded from revenue.

The specific recognition criteria described below must also be met before revenue is recognised:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published/ displayed. Revenue from advertisement is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates.

Sale of Newspaper & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer, usually on delivery of the goods. Revenue from the sale of goods is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of returns and allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates.

Management also extends a right to return to its customers which it believes is a form of variable consideration.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognised by reference to stage of completion of job work as per terms of agreement. Revenue from job work is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of client’s commercials. Revenue from radio broadcasting is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any.

Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from digital platforms by display of internet advertisements are typically contracted for a period ranging between zero to twelve months. Revenue in this respect is recognized over the period of the contract, in accordance with the established principles of accrual accounting and is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue.

Revenue from subscription of packages of placement ofjob postings on ‘shine.com’ is recognized at the time the job postings are displayed based upon customer usage patterns, or upon expiry of the subscription package whichever is earlier and is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any.

Revenue from Job Fair and Resume Services

Revenue from Job Fair and Resume services is recognised upon completion terms of the contract with customers and is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any.

Interest income

For all debt instruments measured either at amortised cost, interest income is recorded using the effective interest rate (EIR). EIR is the rate that exactly discounts the estimated future cash payments or receipts over the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset or to the amortised cost of a financial liability. When calculating the effective interest rate, the Company estimates the expected cash flows by considering all the contractual terms of the financial instrument (for example, prepayment, extension, call and similar options) but does not consider the expected credit losses. Interest income is included in Other Income in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

Dividends

Revenue is recognised when the Company’s right to receive the payment is established, which is generally when shareholders approve the dividend.

Rental Income

Rental Income arising from operating leases on investment properties is accounted for on a straight-line basis over the lease terms and is included in revenue in the Statement of Profit or Loss due to its operating nature unless either:

- Another systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which use benefit derived from the leased asset is diminished, even if the rentals are not on that basis, or

- The rentals are structured to increase in line with expected general inflation to compensate for the lessor’s expected inflationary cost increases. If rentals vary according to factors other than inflation, then this condition is not met.

d) Government grants

Government grants are recognised where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all attached conditions will be complied with. When the grant relates to an expense item, it is recognised as income on a systematic basis over the periods that the related costs, for which it is intended to compensate, are expensed. When the grant relates to an asset, it is recognised as income in equal amounts over the expected useful life of the related asset.

When the Company receives grants for purchase of property, plant and equipment, the asset and the grant are recorded at fair value amounts and released to Statement of Profit and Loss over the expected useful life of the asset.

e) Taxes

Current income tax

Tax expense is the aggregate amount included in the determination of profit or loss for the period in respect of current tax and deferred tax.

Current income tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted, at the reporting date.

Current income tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss (either in other comprehensive income or in equity). Current tax items are recognised in correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation and establishes provisions where appropriate.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax is provided using the liability method on temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes at the reporting date.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences.

Deferred tax assets are recognised for all deductible temporary differences, the carry forward of unused tax credits and any unused tax losses. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary differences, and the carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses can be utilised.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised. Unrecognised deferred tax assets are re-assessed at each reporting date and are recognised to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profits will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in 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 reporting date.

Deferred tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss. Deferred tax items are recognised in correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

GST/ value added taxes paid on acquisition of assets or on incurring expenses

Expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST/ value added taxes paid, except:

- When the tax incurred on a purchase of assets or services is not recoverable from the taxation authority, in which case, the tax paid is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense item, as applicable

- When receivables and payables are stated with the amount of GST included

The net amount of tax recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of receivables or payables in the Balance Sheet.

f) Discontinued operations

A disposal group qualifies as discontinued operation if it is a component of an entity that either has been disposed of, or is classified as held for sale, and:

- Represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations,

- Is part of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose off a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations

Or

- Is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale.

Discontinued operations are excluded from the results of continuing operations and are presented as a single amount as profit or loss after tax from discontinued operations in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

All other notes to the financial statements mainly include amounts for continuing operations, unless otherwise mentioned.

g) Property, plant and equipment

The Company has applied for one time transition option of considering the carrying cost of Property,

Plant and Equipment on the transition date i.e. April 1, 2015 as the deemed cost under Ind-AS.

Property, plant and equipment and Capital Work-in progress are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Such cost includes the cost of replacing part of the plant and equipment and borrowing costs for long-term construction projects if the recognition criteria are met.

Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Recognition:

The cost of an item of property, plant and equipment shall be recognised as an asset if, and only if:

(a) it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the entity; and

(b) the cost of the item can be measured reliably.

All other expenses on existing assets, including day-to- day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the Statement of Profit and Loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

When significant parts of plant and equipment are required to be replaced at intervals, the Company depreciates them separately based on their specific useful lives. Likewise, when a major inspection is performed, its cost is recognised in the carrying amount of the plant and equipment as a replacement if the recognition criteria are satisfied. All other repair and maintenance costs are recognised in Statement of Profit and Loss as incurred. The present value of the expected cost for the decommissioning of an asset after its use is included in the cost of the respective asset if the recognition criteria for a provision are met.

Value for individual assets acquired from ‘The Hindustan Times Limited’ (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent expert at the time of acquisition. Other assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The Company identifies and determines cost of asset significant to the total cost of the asset having useful life that is materially different from that of the remaining life.

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

The Company, based on technical assessment made by the management depreciates certain assets over estimated useful lives which are different from the useful life prescribed in Schedule ll to the Companies Act, 2013. The management has estimated, supported by technical assessment, the useful lives of certain plant and machinery as 16 to 21.1 years. These useful lives are higher than those indicated in Schedule II. The management believes that these estimated useful lives are realistic and reflect fair approximation of the period over which the assets are likely to be used.

Depreciation on the property, plant and equipment is provided over the useful life of assets as specified in Schedule II to the Companies Act, 2013. Property, Plant and Equipment which are added/disposed off during the year, depreciation is provided on pro-rata basis with reference to the month of addition/deletion.

An item of property, plant and equipment and any significant part initially recognised is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the income statement when the asset is derecognised.

Modification or extension to an existing asset, which is of capital nature and which becomes an integral part thereof is depreciated prospectively over the remaining useful life of that asset.

Expenditure directly relating to construction activity is capitalized. Indirect expenditure incurred during construction period is capitalized as a part of indirect construction cost to the extent the expenditure is related to construction or is incidental thereto. Other indirect costs incurred during the construction periods which are not related to construction activity nor are incidental thereto are charged to Statement of Profit and Loss. Reinvested income earned during the construction period is adjusted against the total of indirect expenditure.

The residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation of property, plant and equipment are reviewed at each financial year end and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

h) Investment properties

Investment properties are properties (land and buildings) that are held for long-term rental yields and/or for capital appreciation. Investment properties are measured initially at cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment loss, if any.

The Company depreciates building component of investment property over 30 years from the date property is ready for possession.

Though the Company measures investment property using cost based measurement, the fair value of investment property is disclosed in the notes. Fair values are determined based on an annual evaluation performed by an accredited external independent valuer.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has elected to continue with the carrying value of all of its Investment properties recognised as at April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and use that carrying value as the deemed cost of the Investment Properties.

Investment properties are derecognised either when they have been disposed off or when they are permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefit is expected from their disposal. The difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset is recognised in Statement of Profit and Loss in the period of derecognition.

i) Intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Internally generated intangibles, excluding capitalised development costs, are not capitalised and the related expenditure is reflected in Statement of Profit and Loss in the period in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert at the time of acquisition.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has elected to continue with the carrying value of all of its Intangible assets recognised as at April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and use that carrying value as the deemed cost of the Intangible assets.

The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. The amortisation period and the amortisation method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at the end of each reporting period. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are considered to modify the amortisation period or method, as appropriate, and are treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortisation expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortised, but are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. The assessment of indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether the indefinite life continues to be supportable. If not, the change in useful life from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis.

Gains or losses arising from de-recognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss when the asset is derecognised.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized on straight line basis using the estimated useful life as follows:

j) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest, amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs, if any, directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized, if any. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they occur.

k) Leases

The determination of whether an arrangement is (or contains) a lease is based on the substance of the arrangement at the inception of the lease. The arrangement is, or contains, a lease if fulfilment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of a specific asset or assets and the arrangement conveys a right to use the asset or assets, even if that right is not explicitly specified in an arrangement.

Company as a lessee

A lease is classified at the inception date as a finance lease or an operating lease. A lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership to the Company is classified as a finance lease.

Finance leases are capitalised at the commencement of the lease at the inception date fair value of the leased property or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognised in finance costs in the Statement of Profit and Loss, unless they are directly attributable to qualifying assets, in which case they are capitalized in accordance with the Company’s general policy on the borrowing costs (Refer note 35). Contingent rentals are recognised as expenses in the periods in which they are incurred.

A leased asset is depreciated over the useful life of the asset. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term, the asset is depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset and the lease term.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interiors furnishings, etc. on the leased premises at various locations.

Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense in the Statement of Profit and Loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Company as a lessor

Leases are classified as finance leases when substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership transfer from the Company to the lessee. Amounts due from lessees under finance leases are recorded as receivables at the Company’s net investment in the leases. Finance lease income is allocated to accounting periods so as to reflect a constant periodic rate of return on the net investment outstanding in respect of the lease.

Leases in which the Company does not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of an asset are classified as operating leases. Rental income from operating lease is recognised on straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

Contingent rents are recognised as revenue in the period in which they are earned.

l) Inventories

Inventories are valued as follows :

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

m) Impairment of non-financial assets

The Company assesses, at each reporting date, whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s (CGU) fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. Recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. When the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.

In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining fair value less costs of disposal, recent market transactions are taken into account. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used.

These calculations are corroborated by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for publicly traded Company’s or other available fair value indicators.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations, which are prepared separately for each of the Company’s CGUs to which the individual assets are allocated. These budgets and forecast calculations generally cover a period of five years. For longer periods, a long-term growth rate is calculated and applied to project future cash flows after the fifth year. To estimate cash flow projections beyond periods covered by the most recent budgets/forecasts, the Company extrapolates cash flow projections in the budget using a steady or declining growth rate for subsequent years, unless an increasing rate can be justified. In any case, this growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the products, industries, or country or countries in which the entity operates, or for the market in which the asset is used.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

An assessment is made at each reporting date to determine whether there is an indication that previously recognised impairment losses no longer exist or have decreased. If such indication exists, the Company estimates the asset’s or CGU’s recoverable amount. A previously recognised impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the assumptions used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognised. The reversal is limited so that the carrying amount of the asset does not exceed its recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognised in the Statement of Profit or Loss unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case, the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment annually at the CGU level, as appropriate, and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.

n) Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. When the Company expects some or all of a provision to be reimbursed, for example, under an insurance contract, the reimbursement is recognised as a separate asset, but only when the reimbursement is virtually certain. The expense relating to a provision is presented in the Statement of Profit and Loss net of any reimbursement.

If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, when appropriate, the risks specific to the liability. When discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as a finance cost.

o) Retirement and other employee benefits

Short term employee benefits and defined contribution plans:

All employee benefits payable/available within twelve months of rendering the service are classified as short-term employee benefits. Benefits such as salaries, wages and bonus etc. are recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss in the period in which the employee renders the related service.

Retirement benefit in the form of provident fund is a defined contribution scheme. The Company has no obligation, other than the contribution payable to the provident fund. The Company recognizes contribution payable to the provident fund scheme as an expense, when an employee renders the related service. If the contribution payable to the scheme for service received before the balance sheet date exceeds the contribution already paid, the deficit payable to the scheme is recognized as a liability after deducting the contribution already paid. If the contribution already paid exceeds the contribution due for services received before the balance sheet date, then excess is recognized as an asset to the extent that the pre-payment will lead to, for example, a reduction in future payment or a cash refund.

Gratuity

Gratuity is a defined benefit scheme. The cost of providing benefits under the defined benefit plan is determined using the projected unit credit method.

The Company recognizes termination benefit as a liability and an expense when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. If the termination benefits fall due more than 12 months after the balance sheet date, they are measured at present value of future cash flows using the discount rate determined by reference to market yields at the balance sheet date on government bonds.

Re-measurements, comprising of actuarial gains and losses, the effect ofthe asset ceiling, excluding amounts included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability and the return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability), are recognised immediately in the balance sheet with a corresponding debit or credit to retained earnings through OCI in the perio d in which they occur. Re-measurements are not reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods.

Past service costs are recognised in Statement of Profit and Loss on the earlier of:

- The date of the plan amendment or curtailment, and

- The date that the Company recognises related restructuring cost

Net interest is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability or asset.

The Company recognises the following changes in the net defined benefit obligation as an expense in the Statement of Profit and Loss:

- Service costs comprising current service costs, past-service costs, gains and losses on curtailments and non-routine settlements; and

- Net interest expense or income

Compensated Absences

Accumulated leave, which is expected to be utilized within the next 12 months, is treated as short term employee benefit. The Company measures the expected cost of such absences as the additional amount that it expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement that has accumulated at the reporting date.

Re-measurements, comprising of actuarial gains and losses, are immediately taken to the Statement of Profit and Loss and are not deferred. The Company presents the leave as a current liability in the balance sheet to the extent it does not have an unconditional right to defer its settlement for 12 months after the reporting date. Where Company has the unconditional legal and contractual right to defer the settlement for a period beyond 12 months, the same is presented as non- current liability.

p) Share-based payments

Employees (including senior executives) of the Company receive remuneration in the form of share-based payments, whereby employees render services as consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions).

Equity-settled transactions

The cost of equity-settled transactions is determined by the fair value at the date when the grant is made using an appropriate valuation model. The Company has availed option under Ind-AS 101, to apply intrinsic value method to the options already vested before the date of transition and applied Ind-AS 102 Share-based payment to equity instruments that remain unvested as of transition date.

That cost is recognised, together with a corresponding increase in share-based payment (SBP) reserves in equity, over the period in which the performance and/or service conditions are fulfilled in employee benefits expense. The cumulative expense recognised for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The Statement of Profit and Loss expense or credit for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognised as at the beginning and end of that period and is recognised in employee benefits expense.

Service and non-market performance conditions are not taken into account when determining the grant date fair value of awards, but the likelihood of the conditions being met is assessed as part of the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. Market performance conditions are reflected within the grant date fair value. Any other conditions attached to an award, but without an associated service requirement, are considered to be non-vesting conditions. Non-vesting conditions are reflected in the fair value of an award and lead to an immediate expensing of an award unless there are also service and/or performance conditions.

No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest because non-market performance and/or service conditions have not been met. Where awards include a market or non-vesting condition, the transactions are treated as vested irrespective of whether the market or non-vesting condition is satisfied, provided that all other performance and/or service conditions are satisfied.

When the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, the minimum expense recognised is the expense had the terms had not been modified, if the original terms of the award are met. An additional expense is recognised for any modification that increases the total fair value of the share-based payment transaction, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee as measured at the date of modification. Where an award is cancelled by the entity or by the counterparty, any remaining element of the fair value of the award is expensed immediately through profit or loss.

The dilutive effect of outstanding options is reflected as additional share dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share.

q) Financial instruments

A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument of another entity.

Financial assets

Initial recognition and measurement

All financial assets are recognised initially at fair value plus, in the case of financial assets not recorded at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs that are attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset.

Subsequent measurement

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

- Debt instruments at amortised cost

- Debt instruments, derivatives and equity instruments at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)

- Equity instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI)

Debt instruments at amortised cost

A ‘debt instrument’ is measured at the amortised cost if both the following conditions are met:

a) The asset is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets for collecting contractual cash flows, and

b) Contractual terms of the asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest (SPPI) on the principal amount outstanding.

After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate (EIR) method. Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortisation is included in finance income in the profit or loss. The losses arising from impairment are recognised in the profit or loss. This category generally applies to trade and other receivables. For more information on receivables, refer to Note 39.

Debt instruments at FVTPL

FVTPL is a residual category for debt instruments. Any debt instrument, which does not meet the criteria for categorization as at amortized cost or as FVTOCI, is classified as at FVTPL.

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

Debt instruments included within the FVTPL category are measured at fair value with all changes recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss as “Finance income from mutual funds” under the head “Other Income”.

Equity investments

All equity investments in scope of Ind-AS 109 are measured at fair value. Equity instruments which are held for trading and contingent consideration recognised by an acquirer in a business combination to which Ind-AS 103 applies are Ind-AS classified as at FVTPL. For all other equity instruments, the Company may make an irrevocable election to present in other comprehensive income subsequent changes in the fair value. The Company makes such election on an instrument-by-instrument basis. The classification is made on Initial recognition and is irrevocable.

If the Company decides to classify an equity instrument as at FVTOCI, then all fair value changes on the instrument, excluding dividends, are recognized in the OCI. There is no recycling of the amounts from OCI to P&L, even on sale of investment. However, the Company may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity.

Equity instruments included within the FVTPL category are measured at fair value with all changes recognized in the P&L.

De-recognition

A financial asset (or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or part of a Company of similar financial assets) is primarily derecognised (i.e. removed from the Company’s balance sheet) when:

- The rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired, or

- The Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a ‘pass-through’ arrangement; and either

(a) the Company has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or (b) the Company has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset.

When the Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from an asset or has entered into a pass-through arrangement, it evaluates if and to what extent it has retained the risks and rewards of ownership. When it has neither transferred nor retained substantially all of the risks and rewards of the asset, nor transferred control of the asset, the Company continues to recognise the transferred asset to the extent of the Company continuing involvement. In that case, the Company also recognises an associated liability. The transferred asset and the associated liability are measured on a basis that reflects the rights and obligations that the Company has retained.

Continuing involvement that takes the form of a guarantee over the transferred asset is measured at the lower of the original carrying amount of the asset and the maximum amount of consideration that the Company could be required to repay.

Impairment of financial assets

In accordance with Ind-AS 109, the Company applies expected credit loss (ECL) model for measurement and recognition of impairment loss on the following financial assets and credit risk exposure:

a) Financial assets that are debt instruments, and are measured at amortised cost e.g., loans, debt securities, deposits, trade receivables and bank balance

b) Lease receivables under Ind-AS 17

c) Trade receivables or any contractual right to receive cash or another financial asset that result from transactions that are within the scope of Ind-AS 11 and Ind-AS 18 (referred to as ‘contractual revenue receivables’ in these financial statements).

The Company follows ‘simplified approach’ for recognition of impairment loss allowance on:

- Trade receivables or contract revenue receivables; and

- All lease receivables resulting from transactions within the scope of Ind-AS 17

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

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

Lifetime ECL are the expected credit losses resulting from all possible default events over the expected life of a financial instrument. The 12-month ECL is a portion of the lifetime ECL which results from default events that are possible within 12 months after the reporting date.

As a practical expedient, the Company uses a provision matrix to determine impairment loss allowance on portfolio of its trade receivables. The provision matrix is based on its historically observed default rates over the expected life of the trade receivables and is adjusted for forward-looking estimates. At every reporting date, the historical observed default rates are updated and changes in the forward-looking estimates are analysed.

ECL impairment loss allowance (or reversal) recognized during the period is recognized as income/ expense in the Statement of Profit and Loss (P&L). This amount is reflected under the head ‘other expenses’ in the P&L. The balance sheet presentation for various financial instruments is described below:

- Financial assets measured as at amortised cost, contractual revenue receivables and lease receivables: ECL is presented as an allowance, i.e., as an integral part of the measurement of those assets in the balance sheet. The allowance reduces the net carrying amount. Until the asset meets write-off criteria, the Company does not reduce impairment allowance from the gross carrying amount.

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

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

Financial liabilities

Initial recognition and measurement

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

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

The Company’s financial liabilities include trade and other payables, loans and borrowings including bank overdrafts and derivative financial instruments.

Subsequent measurement

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

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss include financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as at fair value through profit or loss. This category includes derivative financial instruments entered into by the Company that are not designated as hedging instruments in hedge relationships as defined by Ind-AS 109.

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

Loans and borrowings

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

Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The ElR amortisation is included as finance costs in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

This category generally applies to borrowings. For more information refer Note 14.

De-recognition

A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged or cancelled or expires. When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as the de-recognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability. The difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognised in the Statement of Profit or Loss.

Embedded derivatives

An embedded derivative is a component of a hybrid (combined) instrument that also includes a nonderivative host contract - with the effect that some of the cash flows of the combined instrument vary in a way similar to a stand-alone derivative. An embedded derivative causes some or all of the cash flows that otherwise would be required by the contract to be modified according to a specified interest rate, financial instrument price, commodity price, foreign exchange rate, index of prices or rates, credit rating or credit index, or other variable, provided in the case of a non-financial variable that the variable is not specific to a party to the contract. Reassessment only occurs if there is either a change in the terms of the contract that significantly modifies the cash flows that would otherwise be required or a reclassification of a financial asset out of the fair value through profit or loss.

If the hybrid contract contains a host that is a financial asset within the scope of Ind-AS 109, the Company does not separate embedded derivatives. Rather, it applies the classification requirements contained in Ind-AS 109 to the entire hybrid contract. Derivatives embedded in all other host contracts are accounted for as separate derivatives and recorded at fair value if their economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to those of the host contracts and the host contracts are not held for trading or designated at fair value though profit or loss. These embedded derivatives are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognised in profit or loss, unless designated as effective hedging instruments.

Offsetting of financial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the balance sheet if there is a currently enforceable legal right to offset the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, to realise the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously.

r) Derivative financial Instruments

Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

The Company uses derivative financial instruments, such as forward currency contracts, call spread options, coupon only swaps and interest rate swaps to hedge its foreign currency risks and interest rate risks, respectively. Such derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.

The purchase contracts that meet the definition of a derivative under Ind-AS 109 are recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives are taken directly to profit or loss.

s) Cash dividend and non- cash distribution to equity holders of the parent

The Company recognises a liability to make cash or non-cash distributions to equity holders of the parent when the distribution is authorised and the distribution is no longer at the discretion of the Company. As per the corporate laws in India, a distribution is authorised when it is approved by the shareholders. A corresponding amount is recognised directly in equity.

Non-cash distributions are measured at the fair value of the assets to be distributed with fair value remeasurement recognised directly in equity.

Upon distribution of non-cash assets, any difference between the carrying amount of the liability and the carrying amount of the assets distributed is recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

t) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalent in the balance sheet comprise cash at banks and on hand and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less, which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

For the purpose of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits, as defined above, net of outstanding bank overdrafts as they are considered an integral part of the Company’s cash management.

u) Measurement of EBITDA

The Company has elected to present earnings before interest expense, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as a separate line item on the face of the Statement of Profit and Loss. The Company measures EBITDA on the face of profit/ (loss) from continuing operations. In the measurement, the Company does not include depreciation and amortization expense, finance costs and tax expense.

v) Investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates

An investor, regardless of the nature of its involvement with an entity (the investee), shall determine whether it is a parent by assessing whether it controls the investee.

An investor controls an investee when it 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.

Thus, an investor controls an investee if and only if the investor has all the following:

(a) power over the investee;

(b) exposure, or rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and

(c) the ability to use its power over the investee to affect the amount of the investor’s returns.

An associate is an entity over which the Company has significant influence. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee, but is not control or joint control over those policies.

The considerations made in determining significant influence are similar to those necessary to determine control over subsidiaries.

The Company has elected to recognize its investments in subsidiary and associate companies at cost in accordance with the option available in Ind-AS 27, ‘Separate Financial Statements’. Except where investments accounted for at cost shall be accounted for in accordance with Ind-AS 105, Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, when they are classified as held for sale.

Investment carried at cost will be tested for impairment as per Ind-AS 36.

Investment in Joint venture shall be recognized at FVTOCI, all fair value changes on the instrument, excluding dividends, are recognized in the OCI. There is no recycling of the amounts from OCI to P&L, even on sale of investment. However, the Company may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity

w) Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing:

- the profit attributable to owners of the Company

- by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the financial year, adjusted for bonus elements in equity shares issued during the year and excluding treasury shares.

Diluted earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share adjust the figures used in the determination of basic earnings per share to take into account:

- the after income tax effect of interest and other financing costs associated with dilutive potential equity shares, and

- the weighted average number of additional equity shares that would have been outstanding assuming the conversion of all dilutive potential equity shares.

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Mar 31, 2017

1. CORPORATE INFORMATION

HT Media Limited (“HTML” or “the Company”) is a public company domiciled in India and incorporated under the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956. Its shares are listed on the National stock exchange (NSE) and Bombay stock exchange (BSE). The Company publishes ‘Hindustan Times’, an English daily, and ‘Mint’, a Business paper daily except on Sunday and undertakes commercial printing jobs. The Company is also engaged into the business of providing entertainment, radio broadcast and all other related activities through its Radio Stations operating under brand name ‘Fever 104’,‘Fever’ and ‘Radio Nasha’. The digital business of the Company comprises of various online platforms such as ‘shine.com’ etc. The registered office of the Company is located at 18-20, K.G. Marg, New Delhi-110001.

The Company derives revenue primarily from the sale of the above mentioned publications, advertisements published therein, by undertaking printing jobs and airtime advertisements aired at the aforesaid radio stations. Internet business also contributes to the Company’s revenue, by way of display of advertisements on these websites.

Information on related party relationship of the Company is provided in Note 36.

The financial statements of the Company for the year ended March 31, 2017 are authorized for issue in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors on May 19, 2017.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES FOLLOWED BY COMPANY

2.1 Basis of preparation

The standalone financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with Indian Accounting Standards (‘Ind-AS’) notified under the Companies (Indian Accounting Standard) Rules, 2015 and Companies (Indian Accounting Standard)(Amendment) Rules, 2016.

For all periods up to and including the year ended March 31, 2016, the Company prepared its financial statements in accordance with the Accounting Standards notified under the Section 133 of the Companies Act, 2013 read together with paragraph 7 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules 2014 (‘Indian GAAP’). The financial statements for the year ended March

31, 2017 are the first the Company has prepared in accordance with Ind-AS. Refer Note 51 on first time adoption for information on how the Company has adopted Ind-AS.

The accounting policies are applied consistently to all the periods presented in the financial statements, including the preparation of the opening Ind-AS Balance Sheet as at April 1, 2015 being the date of transition to Ind-AS.

The standalone financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for the following assets and liabilities which have been measured at fair value:

- Derivative financial instruments.

- Certain financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value (refer accounting policy regarding financial instruments).

- Defined benefit plans - plan assets measured at fair value.

All amounts disclosed in the financial statements and notes have been rounded off to the nearest lacs as per the requirement of Schedule III, unless otherwise stated.

The standalone financial statements are presented in Indian Rupees (Rs,) which is also the Company’s functional currency.

2.2 Summary of significant accounting policies

a) Foreign currencies

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded by the Company at their respective functional currency spot rates at the date the transaction first qualifies for recognition. However, for practical reasons, the Company uses an average rate if the average approximates the actual rate at the date of the transaction.

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the functional currency spot rates of exchange at the reporting date.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items or on restatement of the Company’s monetary items at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the year, or reported in previous financial statements, are recognized as income or as expenses in the year in which they arise.

Exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or before March 31, 2016 :

- Exchange differences on long-term foreign currency monetary items relating to acquisition of depreciable assets are adjusted to the carrying cost of the assets and depreciated over the balance life of the assets in accordance with option available under Ind-AS 101 (First time adoption).

Exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency loans obtained or re-financed on or after April 1, 2016 :

- The exchange differences pertaining to long term foreign currency working capital loans obtained or re-financed on or after April 1, 2016 is charged off or credited to Statement of Profit and Loss account under Ind-AS.

Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the dates of the initial transactions.

b) Fair value measurement

The Company measures financial instruments, such as, derivatives and certain investments at fair value at each reporting/ balance sheet date.

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either:

- In the principal market for the asset or liability, or

- In the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability

The principal or the most advantageous market must be accessible by the Company.

The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest.

A fair value measurement of a non-financial asset takes into account a market participant’s ability to generate economic benefits by using the asset in its highest and best use or by selling it to another market participant that would use the asset in its highest and best use.

The Company uses valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, maximizing the use of relevant observable inputs and minimizing the use of unobservable inputs.

All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorized within the fair value hierarchy, described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole:

- Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

- Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly observable

- Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable

For assets and liabilities that are recognized in the financial statements on a recurring basis, the Company determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by reassessing categorization (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.

For the purpose of fair value disclosures, the Company has determined classes of assets and liabilities on the basis of the nature, characteristics and risks of the asset or liability and the level of the fair value hierarchy as explained above.

This note summarizes accounting policy for fair value. Other fair value related disclosures are given in the relevant notes :

- Disclosures for valuation methods, significant estimates and assumptions (Note 39)

- Quantitative disclosures of fair value measurement hierarchy (Note 39)

- Investment in unquoted equity shares (Note 6A & 6B)

- Investment properties (Note 4)

- Financial instruments (including those carried at amortized cost) (Note 39)

c) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured, regardless of when the payment is being made. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, taking into account contractually defined terms of payment and excluding taxes or duties collected on behalf of the government. The Company has concluded that it is the principal in all of its revenue arrangements since it is the primary obligor in all the revenue arrangements as it has pricing latitude and is also exposed to inventory and credit risks.

Service tax, Sales tax and value added tax (VAT) is not received by the Company on its own account. Rather, it is tax collected on value added to the commodity by the seller on behalf of the government. Accordingly, it is excluded from revenue.

The specific recognition criteria described below must also be met before revenue is recognized :

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published/ displayed. Revenue from advertisement is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates.

Sale of Newspaper & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer, usually on delivery of the goods. Revenue from the sale of goods is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of returns and allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates.

Management also extends a right to return to its customers which it believes is a form of variable consideration.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognized by reference to stage of completion of job work as per terms of agreement. Revenue from job work is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of client’s commercials. Revenue from radio broadcasting is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any.

Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from digital platforms by display of internet advertisements are typically contracted for a period ranging between zero to twelve months. Revenue in this respect is recognized over the period of the contract, in accordance with the established principles of accrual accounting and is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue.

Revenue from subscription of packages of placement of job postings on ‘shine.com’ is recognized at the time the job postings are displayed based upon customer usage patterns, or upon expiry of the subscription package whichever is earlier and is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any.

Revenue from Job Fair and Resume Services

Revenue from Job Fair and Resume services is recognized upon completion terms of the contract with customers and is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of allowances, trade discounts and volume rebates, if any.

Interest income

For all debt instruments measured either at amortized cost, interest income is recorded using the effective interest rate (EIR). EIR is the rate that exactly discounts the estimated future cash payments or receipts over the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset or to the amortized cost of a financial liability. When calculating the effective interest rate, the Company estimates the expected cash flows by considering all the contractual terms of the financial instrument (for example, prepayment, extension, call and similar options) but does not consider the expected credit losses. Interest income is included in other income in the statement of profit and loss.

Dividends

Revenue is recognized when the Company’s right to receive the payment is established, which is generally when shareholders approve the dividend.

Rental Income

Rental Income arising from operating leases on investment properties is accounted for on a straight-line basis over the lease terms and is included in revenue in the Statement of Profit and Loss due to its operating nature unless either:

- Another systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which use benefit derived from the leased asset is diminished, even if the payments to the lessors are not on that basis,

or

- The rentals are structured to increase in line with expected general inflation to compensate for the less or’s expected inflationary cost increases. If rentals vary according to factors other than inflation, then this condition is not met.

d) Government grants

Government grants are recognized where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all attached conditions will be complied with. When the grant relates to an expense item, it is recognized as income on a systematic basis over the periods that the related costs, for which it is intended to compensate, are expensed. When the grant relates to an asset, it is recognized as income in equal amounts over the expected useful life of the related asset.

When the Company receives grants for purchase of property, plant and equipment, the asset and the grant are recorded at fair value amounts and released to statement of profit and loss over the expected useful life of the asset.

e) Taxes

Current income tax

Tax expense is the aggregate amount included in the determination of profit or loss for the period in respect of current tax and deferred tax.

Current income tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted, at the reporting date.

Current income tax relating to items recognized outside profit or loss is recognized outside profit or loss (either in other comprehensive income or in equity). Current tax items are recognized is correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation and establishes provisions where appropriate.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax is provided using the liability method on temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes at the reporting date.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable temporary differences.

Deferred tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, the carry forward of unused tax credits and any unused tax losses. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary differences, and the carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses can be utilized.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilized. Unrecognized deferred tax assets are re-assessed at each reporting date and are recognized to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profits will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the year when the asset is realized or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.

Deferred tax relating to items recognized outside profit or loss is recognized outside profit or loss. Deferred tax items are recognized in correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

Sales/ value added taxes paid on acquisition of assets or on incurring expenses

Expenses and assets are recognized net of the amount of sales/ value added taxes paid, except:

- When the tax incurred on a purchase of assets or services is not recoverable from the taxation authority, in which case, the tax paid is recognized as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense item, as applicable

- When receivables and payables are stated with the amount of sales tax included

The net amount of tax recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of receivables or payables in the balance sheet.

f) Discontinued operations

A disposal group qualifies as discontinued operation if it is a component of an entity that either has been disposed of, or is classified as held for sale, and:

- Represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations,

- Is part of a single co-ordinate plan to dispose off a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations

Or

- Is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale.

Discontinued operations are excluded from the results of continuing operations and are presented as a single amount as profit or loss after tax from discontinued operations in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

Additional disclosures are provided in Note 29. All other notes to the financial statements mainly include amounts for continuing operations, unless otherwise mentioned.

g) Property, plant and equipment

The Company has applied for one time transition option of considering the carrying cost of Property, Plant and Equipment on the transition date i.e. April 1, 2015 as the deemed cost under Ind-AS.

Property, plant and equipment and Capital Work-in progress are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Such cost includes the cost of replacing part of the plant and equipment and borrowing costs for long-term construction projects if the recognition criteria are met.

Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any

directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Recognition:

The cost of an item of property, plant and equipment shall be recognized as an asset if, and only if:

(a) it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the entity; and

(b) the cost of the item can be measured reliably.

All other expenses on existing assets, including day- to- day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the Statement of Profit and Loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

When significant parts of plant and equipment are required to be replaced at intervals, the Company depreciates them separately based on their specific useful lives. Likewise, when a major inspection is performed, its cost is recognized in the carrying amount of the plant and equipment as a replacement if the recognition criteria are satisfied. All other repair and maintenance costs are recognized in Statement of Profit and Loss as incurred. The present value of the expected cost for the decommissioning of an asset after its use is included in the cost of the respective asset if the recognition criteria for a provision are met.

Value for individual assets acquired from ‘The Hindustan Times Limited’ (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent expert at the time of acquisition. Other assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The Company identifies and determines cost of asset significant to the total cost of the asset having useful life that is materially different from that of the remaining life.

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

The Company, based on technical assessment made by the management depreciates certain assets over estimated useful lives which are different from the useful life prescribed in Schedule II to the Companies Act, 2013. The management has estimated, supported by technical assessment, the useful lives of certain plant and machinery as 16 to 21.1 years. These useful lives are higher than those indicated in schedule II. The management believes that these estimated useful lives are realistic and reflect fair approximation of the period over which the assets are likely to be used.

Depreciation on the property, plant and equipment is provided over the useful life of assets as specified in Schedule II to the Companies Act, 2013. Property, Plant and Equipment which are added/disposed off during the year, depreciation is provided on pro-rata basis with reference to the month of addition/deletion.

An item of property, plant and equipment and any significant part initially recognized is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the income statement when the asset is derecognized.

Modification or extension to an existing asset, which is of capital nature and which becomes an integral part thereof is depreciated prospectively over the remaining useful life of that asset.

Expenditure directly relating to construction activity is capitalized. Indirect expenditure incurred during construction period is capitalized as a part of indirect construction cost to the extent

the expenditure is related to construction or is incidental thereto. Other indirect costs incurred during the construction periods which are not related to construction activity nor are incidental thereto are charged to Statement of Profit and Loss. Reinvested income earned during the construction period is adjusted against the total of indirect expenditure.

The residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation of property, plant and equipment are reviewed at each financial year end and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

h) Investment properties

Investment properties are properties (land and buildings) that are held for long-term rental yields and/or for capital appreciation. Investment properties are measured initially at cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment loss, if any.

The Company depreciates building component of investment property over 30 years from the date property is ready for possession.

Though the Company measures investment property using cost based measurement, the fair value of investment property is disclosed in the notes. Fair values are determined based on an annual evaluation performed by an accredited external independent valuer.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has elected to continue with the carrying value of all of its Investment properties recognized as at April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and use that carrying value as the deemed cost of the Investment Properties.

Investment properties are derecognized either when they have been disposed off or when they are permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefit is expected from their disposal. The difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset is recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss in the period of de-recognition.

i) Intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. Internally generated intangibles, excluding capitalized development costs, are not capitalized and the related expenditure is reflected in profit or loss in the period in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert at the time of acquisition.

On transition to Ind-AS, the Company has elected to continue with the carrying value of all of its Intangible assets recognized as at April 1, 2015 measured as per the Indian GAAP and use that carrying value as the deemed cost of the Intangible assets.

The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. The amortization period and the amortization method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at the end of each reporting period. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are considered to modify the amortization period or method, as appropriate, and are treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortization expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. The assessment of indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether the indefinite life continues to be supportable. If not, the change in useful life from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis.

Gains or losses arising from de-recognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss when the asset is derecognized.

j) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest, amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs, if any, directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized, if any. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they occur.

k) Leases

The determination of whether an arrangement is (or contains) a lease is based on the substance of the arrangement at the inception of the lease. The arrangement is, or contains, a lease if fulfillment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of a specific asset or assets and the arrangement conveys a right to use the asset or assets, even if that right is not explicitly specified in an arrangement.

For arrangements entered into prior to April 1, 2015, the Company has determined whether the arrangement contains lease on the basis of facts and circumstances existing on the date of transition.

Company as a lessee

A lease is classified at the inception date as a finance lease or an operating lease. A lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership to the Company is classified as a finance lease.

Finance leases are capitalized at the commencement of the lease at the inception date fair value of the leased property or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognized in finance costs in the Statement of Profit and Loss, unless they are directly attributable to qualifying assets, in which case they are capitalized in accordance with the Company’s general policy on the borrowing costs (Refer note 35). Contingent rentals are recognized as expenses in the periods in which they are incurred.

A leased asset is depreciated over the useful life of the asset. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term, the asset is depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset and the lease term.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interiors furnishings, etc. on the leased premises at various locations.

Operating lease payments are recognized as an expense in the Statement of Profit and Loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Company as a less or

Leases are classified as finance leases when substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership transfer from the Company to the lessee. Amounts due from lessees under finance leases are recorded as receivables at the Company’s net investment in the leases. Finance lease income is allocated to accounting periods so as to reflect a constant periodic rate of return on the net investment outstanding in respect of the lease.

Leases in which the Company does not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of an asset are classified as operating leases. Rental income from operating lease is recognized on straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

Contingent rents are recognized as revenue in the period in which they are earned.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

m) Impairment of non-financial assets

A The Company assesses, at each reporting date, whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s (CGU) fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. Recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. When the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.

In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining fair value less costs of disposal, recent market transactions are taken into account. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used. These calculations are corroborated by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for publicly traded Company’s or other available fair value indicators.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations, which are prepared separately for each of the Company’s CGUs to which the individual assets are allocated. These budgets and forecast calculations generally cover a period of five years. For longer periods, a long-term growth rate is calculated and applied to project future cash flows after the fifth year. To estimate cash flow projections beyond periods covered by the most recent budgets/forecasts, the Company extrapolates cash flow projections in the budget using a steady or declining growth rate for subsequent years, unless an increasing rate can be justified. In any case, this growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the products, industries, or country or countries in which the entity operates, or for the market in which the asset is used.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

An assessment is made at each reporting date to determine whether there is an indication that previously recognized impairment losses no longer exist or have decreased. If such indication exists, the Company estimates the asset’s or CGU’s recoverable amount. A previously recognized impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the assumptions used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognized. The reversal is limited so that the carrying amount of the asset does not exceed its recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognized for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case, the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment annually at the CGU level, as appropriate, and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.

n) Provisions

Provisions are recognized when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. When the Company expects some or all of a provision to be reimbursed, for example, under an insurance contract, the reimbursement is recognized as a separate asset, but only when the reimbursement is virtually certain. The expense relating to a provision is presented in the Statement of Profit and Loss net of any reimbursement.

If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, when appropriate, the risks specific to the liability. When discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognized as a finance cost.

o) Retirement and other Employee Benefits

Short term employee benefits and defined contribution plans:

All employee benefits payable/available within twelve months of rendering the service are classified as short-term employee benefits. Benefits such as salaries, wages and bonus etc. are recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss in the period in which the employee renders the related service.

Retirement benefit in the form of provident fund is a defined contribution scheme. The Company has no obligation, other than the contribution payable to the provident fund. The Company recognizes contribution payable to the provident

fund scheme as an expense, when an employee renders the related service. If the contribution payable to the scheme for service received before the balance sheet date exceeds the contribution already paid, the deficit payable to the scheme is recognized as a liability after deducting the contribution already paid. If the contribution already paid exceeds the contribution due for services received before the balance sheet date, then excess is recognized as an asset to the extent that the pre-payment will lead to, for example, a reduction in future payment or a cash refund.

Gratuity

Gratuity is a defined benefit scheme. The cost of providing benefits under the defined benefit plan is determined using the projected unit credit method.

The Company recognizes termination benefit as a liability and an expense when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. If the termination benefits fall due more than 12 months after the balance sheet date, they are measured at present value of future cash flows using the discount rate determined by reference to market yields at the balance sheet date on government bonds.

Re-measurements, comprising of actuarial gains and losses, the effect of the asset ceiling, excluding amounts included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability and the return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability), are recognized immediately in the balance sheet with a corresponding debit or credit to retained earnings through OCI in the period in which they occur. Re-measurements are not reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods.

Past service costs are recognized in profit or loss on the earlier of:

- The date of the plan amendment or curtailment, and

- The date that the Company recognizes related restructuring cost

Net interest is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability or asset.

The Company recognizes the following changes in the net defined benefit obligation as an expense in the Statement of Profit and Loss:

- Service costs comprising current service costs, past-service costs, gains and losses on curtailments and non-routine settlements; and

- Net interest expense or income Compensated Absences

Accumulated leave, which is expected to be utilized within the next 12 months, is treated as short term employee benefit. The Company measures the expected cost of such absences as the additional amount that it expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement that has accumulated at the reporting date.

The Company treats accumulated leave expected to be carried forward beyond twelve months, as long- term employee benefit for measurement purposes. Such long- term compensated absences are provided for based on the actuarial valuation using the projected unit credit method at the period end. Re-measurements, comprising of actuarial gains and losses, are immediately taken to the Statement of Profit and Loss and are not deferred. The Company presents the leave as a current liability in the balance sheet to the extent it does not have an unconditional right to defer its settlement for 12 months after the reporting date. Where Company has the unconditional legal and contractual right to defer the settlement for a period beyond 12 months, the same is presented as non- current liability.

p) Share-based payments

Employees (including senior executives) of the Company receive remuneration in the form of share-based payments, whereby employees render services as consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions).

Equity-settled transactions

The cost of equity-settled transactions is determined by the fair value at the date when the grant is made using an appropriate valuation model. The Company has availed option under Ind-AS 101, to apply intrinsic value method to the options already vested before the date of transition and applied Ind-AS 102 Share-based payment to equity instruments that remain unvested as of transition date.

That cost is recognized, together with a corresponding increase in share-based payment (SBP) reserves in equity, over the period in which the performance and/or service conditions are fulfilled in employee benefits expense. The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The Statement of Profit and Loss expense or credit for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognized as at the beginning and end of that period and is recognized in employee benefits expense.

Service and non-market performance conditions are not taken into account when determining the grant date fair value of awards, but the likelihood of the conditions being met is assessed as part of the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. Market performance conditions are reflected within the grant date fair value. Any other conditions attached to an award, but without an associated service requirement, are considered to be no vesting conditions. Non-vesting conditions are reflected in the fair value of an award and lead to an immediate expensing of an award unless there are also service and/or performance conditions.

No expense is recognized for awards that do not ultimately vest because non-market performance and/or service conditions have not been met. Where awards include a market or non-vesting condition, the transactions are treated as vested irrespective of whether the market or no vesting condition is satisfied, provided that all other performance and/or service conditions are satisfied.

When the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, the minimum expense recognized is the expense had the terms had not been modified, if the original terms of the award are met. An additional expense is recognized for any modification that increases the total fair value of the share-based payment transaction, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee as measured at the date of modification. Where an award is cancelled by the entity or by the counterparty, any remaining element of the fair value of the award is expensed immediately through profit or loss.

The dilutive effect of outstanding options is reflected as additional share dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share.

q) Financial instruments

A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument of another entity.

Financial assets

Initial recognition and measurement

All financial assets are recognized initially at fair value plus, in the case of financial assets not recorded at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs that are attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset.

Subsequent measurement

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

- Debt instruments at amortized cost

- Debt instruments, derivatives and equity instruments at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)

- Equity instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI)

Debt instruments at amortized cost

A ‘debt instrument’ is measured at the amortized cost if both the following conditions are met:

a) The asset is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets for collecting contractual cash flows, and

b) Contractual terms of the asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest (SPPI) on the principal amount outstanding.

After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate (EIR) method. Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortization is included in finance income in the profit or loss. The losses arising from impairment are recognized in the profit or loss. This category generally applies to trade and other receivables. For more information on receivables, refer Note 39.

Debt instruments at FVTPL

FVTPL is a residual category for debt instruments. Any debt instrument, which does not meet the criteria for categorization as at amortized cost or as FVTOCI, is classified as at FVTPL.

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

Debt instruments included within the FVTPL category are measured at fair value with all changes recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

Equity investments

All equity investments in scope of Ind-AS 109 are measured at fair value. Equity instruments which are held for trading and contingent consideration recognized by an acquirer in a business combination to which Ind-AS 103 applies are Ind-AS classified as at FVTPL. For all other equity instruments, the Company may make an irrevocable election to present in other comprehensive income subsequent changes in the fair value. The Company makes such election on an instrument-by-instrument basis. The classification is made on Initial recognition and is irrevocable.

If the Company decides to classify an equity instrument as at FVTOCI, then all fair value changes on the instrument, excluding dividends, are recognized in the OCI. There is no recycling of the amounts from OCI to Statement of Profit and Loss, even on sale of investment. However, the Company may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity.

Equity instruments included within the FVTPL category are measured at fair value with all changes recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

De-recognition

A financial asset (or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or part of a Company of similar financial assets) is primarily derecognized (i.e. removed from the Company’s balance sheet) when:

- The rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired, or

- The Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a ‘pass-through’ arrangement; and either (a) the Company has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or (b) the Company has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset.

When the Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from an asset or has entered into a pass-through arrangement, it evaluates if and to what extent it has retained the risks and rewards of ownership. When it has neither transferred nor retained substantially all of the risks and rewards of the asset, nor transferred control of the asset, the Company continues to recognize the transferred asset to the extent of the Company continuing involvement. In that case, the Company also recognizes an associated liability. The transferred asset and the associated liability are measured on a basis that reflects the rights and obligations that the Company has retained.

Continuing involvement that takes the form of a guarantee over the transferred asset is measured at the lower of the original carrying amount of the asset and the maximum amount of consideration that the Company could be required to repay.

Impairment of financial assets

In accordance with Ind-AS 109, the Company applies expected credit loss (ECL) model for measurement and recognition of impairment loss on the following financial assets and credit risk exposure:

a) Financial assets that are debt instruments, and are measured at amortized cost e.g., loans, debt securities, deposits, trade receivables and bank balance

b) Lease receivables under Ind-AS 17

c) Trade receivables or any contractual right to receive cash or another financial asset that result from transactions that are within the scope of Ind-AS 11 and Ind-AS 18 (referred to as ‘contractual revenue receivables’ in these financial statements)

The Company follows ‘simplified approach’ for recognition of impairment loss allowance on:

- Trade receivables or contract revenue receivables; and

- All lease receivables resulting from transactions within the scope of Ind-AS 17

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

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

Lifetime ECL are the expected credit losses resulting from all possible default events over the expected life of a financial instrument. The 12-month ECL is a portion of the lifetime ECL which results from default events that are possible within 12 months after the reporting date.

ECL is the difference between all contractual cash flows that are due to the Company in accordance with the contract and all the cash flows that the entity expects to receive (i.e., all cash shortfalls), discounted at the original EIR. When estimating the cash flows, an entity is required to consider:

- All contractual terms of the financial instrument (including prepayment, extension, call and similar options) over the expected life of the financial instrument. However, in rare cases when the expected life of the financial instrument cannot be estimated reliably, then the entity is required to use the remaining contractual term of the financial instrument

- Cash flows from the sale of collateral held or other credit enhancements that are integral to the contractual terms

As a practical expedient, the Company uses a provision matrix to determine impairment loss allowance on portfolio of its trade receivables. The provision matrix is based on its historically observed default rates over the expected life of the trade receivables and is adjusted for forward-looking estimates. At every reporting date, the historical observed default rates are updated and changes in the forward-looking estimates are analysed.

ECL impairment loss allowance (or reversal) recognized during the period is recognized as income/ expense in the Statement of Profit and Loss. This amount is reflected under the head ‘other expenses’ in the Statement of Profit and Loss. The balance sheet presentation for various financial instruments is described below:

- Financial assets measured as at amortized cost, contractual revenue receivables and lease receivables: ECL is presented as an allowance, i.e., as an integral part of the measurement of those assets in the balance sheet. The allowance reduces the net carrying amount. Until the asset meets write-off criteria, the Company does not reduce impairment allowance from the gross carrying amount.

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

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

Financial liabilities

Initial recognition and measurement

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

All financial liabilities are recognized initially at fair value and, in the case of loans and borrowings and payables, net of directly attributable transaction costs.

The Company’s financial liabilities include trade and other payables, loans and borrowings including bank overdrafts and derivative financial instruments.

Subsequent measurement

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

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss include financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as at fair value through profit or loss. This category includes derivative financial instruments entered into by the Company that are not designated as hedging instruments in hedge relationships as defined by Ind-AS 109.

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

Loans and borrowings

After initial recognition, interest-bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the EIR method. Gains and losses are recognized in profit and loss when the liabilities are derecognized as well as through the EIR amortization process.

Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortization is included as finance costs in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

This category generally applies to borrowings. For more information refer Note 14.

De-recognition

A financial liability is derecognized when the obligation under the liability is discharged or cancelled or expires. When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as the de-recognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability. The difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

Embedded derivatives

An embedded derivative is a component of a hybrid (combined) instrument that also includes a non-derivative host contract - with the effect that some of the cash flows of the combined instrument vary in a way similar to a stand-alone derivative. An embedded derivative causes some or all of the cash flows that otherwise would be required by the contract to be modified according to a specified interest rate, financial instrument price, commodity price, foreign exchange rate, index of prices or rates, credit rating or credit index, or other variable, provided in the case of a non-financial variable that the variable is not specific to a party to the contract. Reassessment only occurs if there is either a change in the terms of the contract that significantly modifies the cash flows that would otherwise be required or a reclassification of a financial asset out of the fair value through profit and loss.

If the hybrid contract contains a host that is a financial asset within the scope of Ind-AS 109, the Company does not separate embedded derivatives. Rather, it applies the classification requirements contained in Ind-AS 109 to the entire hybrid contract. Derivatives embedded in all other host contracts are accounted for as separate derivatives and recorded at fair value if their economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to those of the host contracts and the host contracts are not held for trading or designated at fair value though profit and loss. These embedded derivatives are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in profit and loss, unless designated as effective hedging instruments.

Offsetting of financial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the balance sheet if there is a currently enforceable legal right to offset the recognized amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, to realize the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously.

r) Derivative financial Instruments

Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

Company uses derivative financial instruments, such as forward currency contracts, call spread options, coupon only swaps and interest rate swaps to hedge its foreign currency risks and interest rate risks, respectively. Such derivative financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.

The purchase contracts that meet the definition of a derivative under Ind-AS 109 are recognized in the statement of profit and loss.

The purchase contracts that meet the definition of a derivative under Ind-AS 109 are recognized in the Statement of Profit and Loss.

Any gain or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives are taken directly to profit and loss.

s) Cash dividend and non- cash distribution to equity holders of the parent Company

The Company recognizes a liability to make cash or non-cash distributions to equity holders of the parent Company when the distribution is authorized and the distribution is no longer at the discretion of the Company. As per the corporate laws in India, a distribution is authorized when it is approved by the shareholders. A corresponding amount is recognized directly in equity.

Non-cash distributions are measured at the fair value of the assets to be distributed with fair value re-measurement recognized directly in equity.

Upon distribution of non-cash assets, any difference between the carrying amount of the liability and the carrying amount of the assets distributed is recognized in the statement of profit and loss.

t) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalent in the balance sheet comprise cash at banks and on hand and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less, which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

For the purpose of statement of cash flow, cash & cash equivalents consist of cash and short term deposits as defined above, net of outstanding bank overdrafts as they are considered as integral part of Company’s cash management.

u) Measurement of EBITDA

The Company has elected to present earnings before interest expense, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as a separate line item on the face of the Statement of Profit and Loss. The Company measures EBITDA from continuing operations on the face of Statement of Profit and Loss. In the measurement, the Company does not include depreciation and amortization expense, finance costs and tax expense.

v) Investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates

An investor, regardless of the nature of its involvement with an entity (the investee), shall determine whether it is a parent Company by assessing whether it controls the investee.

An investor controls an investee when it 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.

Thus, an investor controls an investee if and only if the investor has all the following:

(a) power over the investee;

(b) exposure, or rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and

(c) the ability to use its power over the investee to affect the amount of the investor’s returns.

An associate is an entity over which the Company has significant influence. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee, but is not control or joint control over those policies.

The considerations made in determining significant influence are similar to those necessary to determine control over subsidiaries.

The Company has elected to recognize its investments in subsidiary and associate companies at cost in accordance with the option available in Ind-AS 27, ‘Separate Financial Statements’. Except where investments accounted for at cost shall be accounted for in accordance with Ind-AS 105, Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, when they are classified as held for sale.

Investment carried at cost will be tested for impairment as per Ind-AS 36.

Investment in Joint venture shall be recognized at FVTOCI, all fair value changes on the instrument, excluding dividends, are recognized in the OCI. There is no recycling of the amounts from OCI to Statement of Profit and Loss, even on sale of investment. However, the Company may transfer the cumulative gain or loss within equity

w) Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing:

-the profit

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Mar 31, 2016

1. CORPORATE INFORMATION

HT Media Limited (the Company) is a public company registered in India and incorporated under the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956. Its shares are listed on the National stock exchange and Bombay stock exchange. The Company publishes ‘Hindustan Times’, an English daily, and ‘Mint’, a Business paper daily except on Sunday’ and undertakes commercial printing jobs. The Company is also engaged into the business of providing entertainment, radio broadcast and all other related activities through its Radio Stations operating under brand name ‘Fever 104’ in cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore. The digital business of the Company comprises of ‘shine.com’ (job portal), ‘hindustantimes.com’ (News Website) and ‘livemint.com’ (business news website).

The Company derives revenue primarily from the sale of the above mentioned publications, advertisements published therein, by undertaking printing jobs and airtime advertisements aired at the aforesaid radio stations. Internet business also contributes to the Company’s revenue, by way of display of advertisements on these websites.

2. BASIS OF PREPARATION

The financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in India (Indian GAAP). The Company has prepared these financial statements to comply in all material respects with the Accounting Standards notified under Section 133 of the Companies Act 2013, read together with paragraph 7 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules 2014. The financial statements have been prepared on an accrual basis and under the historical cost convention.

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of financial statements are consistent with those of previous year.

2.1 Statement of Significant Accounting Polices

a) Use of estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Indian GAAP requires the management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities, at the end of reporting period. Although these estimates are based upon management’s best knowledge of current events and actions, uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in the outcomes requiring a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets or liabilities in future periods.

b) Tangible fixed assets

Value for individual fixed assets acquired from ‘The Hindustan Times Limited’ (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent expert at the time of acquisition.

Other fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Subsequent expenditure related to an item of fixed asset is added to its book value only if it increases the future benefits from the existing asset beyond its previously assessed standard of performance. All other expenses on existing fixed assets, including day-to-day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

The Company adjusts exchange differences arising on translation/ settlement of long-term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to acquisition of a depreciable asset to the cost of the asset and depreciates the same over the remaining life of the asset. In accordance with MCA circular dated August 9, 2012, exchange differences adjusted to the cost of fixed assets are total differences, arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to the acquisition of a depreciable asset, for the period. In other words, the Company does not differentiate between exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost and other exchange differences.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of fixed assets are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interior furnishings, etc on the leased premises at various locations.

The company identifies and determines cost of asset significant to the total cost of the asset having useful life that is materially different from that of the remaining life.

c) Depreciation on tangible fixed assets

Depreciation on fixed assets are provided on Straight Line Method at the rates computed based on estimated useful life of the assets estimated by the management. The identified components are depreciated over their useful lives; the remaining asset is depreciated over the life of the principal asset.

The Company has used the following rates to provide depreciation on its fixed assets.

The management has estimated, supported by technical assessment, the useful lives of certain plant and machinery as 16 to 21 Years. These lives are higher than those indicated in schedule II.

Leasehold Land is amortized on a straight line basis over the period of lease (ranging between 53 years to 99 years).

Leasehold Improvements are amortized on a straight line basis over the useful life not exceeding 10 years or over the life of lease, whichever is lower.

d) Intangibles Assets and Amortization

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Internally generated intangible assets, excluding capitalized development costs, are not capitalized and expenditure is reflected in the statement of profit and loss in the year in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert at the time of acquisition.

I intangible assets are amortized on a straight line basis over the estimated useful economic life. The Company uses a rebuttable presumption that the useful life of an intangible asset will not exceed ten years from the date when the asset is available for use. If the persuasive evidence exists to the affect that useful life of an intangible asset exceeds ten years, the Company amortizes the intangible asset over the best estimate of its useful life. Such intangible assets and intangible assets not yet available for use are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. All other intangible assets are assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired.

The amortization period and the amortization method are reviewed at least at each financial year end. If the expected useful life of the asset is significantly different from previous estimates, the amortization period is changed accordingly. If there has been a significant change in the expected pattern of economic benefits from the asset, the amortization method is changed to reflect the changed pattern. Such changes are accounted for in accordance with AS 5 Net Profit or Loss for the Period, Prior Period Items and Changes in Accounting Policies.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

License fees are charged to statement of profit and loss at the rate of 4% of gross revenue for the reporting period or 10% of Reserve One Time Entry Fee (ROTEF) for the concerned city, whichever is higher. Gross Revenue for this purpose is revenue derived on the basis of billing rates inclusive of any taxes and without deduction of any discount given to the advertiser and any commission paid to advertising agencies. ROTEF means 25% of highest valid bid in the city.

Software licenses acquired from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than that envisaged above, are amortized over such estimated lower residual lives.

e) Leases Where the Company is lessee

Finance leases, which effectively transfer to the Company substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are capitalized at the inception of the lease term at the lower of the fair value of the leased property and present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognized as finance costs in the statement of profit and loss. Lease management fees, legal charges and other initial direct costs of lease are capitalized.

A leased asset is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the asset. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain the ownership by the end of the lease term, the capitalized leased assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term.

Leases where the less or effectively retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the leased item, are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments/receipts are recognized as an expense/income in the statement of profit and loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Where the Company is less or

Leases in which the company transfers substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the asset are classified as finance leases. Assets given under finance lease are recognized as a receivable at an amount equal to the net investment in the lease. After initial recognition, the company apportions lease rentals between the principal repayment and interest income so as to achieve a constant periodic rate of return on the net investment outstanding in respect of the finance lease. The interest income is recognized in the statement of profit and loss. Initial direct costs such as legal costs, brokerage costs, etc. are recognized immediately in the statement of profit and loss.

Leases in which the company does not transfer substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the asset are classified as operating leases. Assets subject to operating leases are included in plant, property and equipment. Lease income on an operating lease is recognized in the statement of profit and loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Costs, including depreciation, are recognized as an expense in the statement of profit and loss. Initial direct costs such as legal costs, brokerage costs, etc. are recognized immediately in the statement of profit and loss.

f) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest and amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings, other than arising on long term foreign currency monetary items, to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of the respective asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period they occur.

g) Impairment of tangible and intangible assets

The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is higher of an asset’s or its cash-generating units (CGU) net selling price and its value in use. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining net selling price, recent market transactions are taken into account, if available. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations which are prepared separately for each of the Company’s cash-generating units to which the individual assets are allocated.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognized in the statement of profit and loss.

After impairment, depreciation is provided on the revised carrying amount of the asset over its remaining useful life.

h) Investments

Investments, which are readily realizable and intended to be held for not more than one year from the date on which such investments are made, are classified as current investments. All other investments are classified as long-term investments.

On initial recognition, all investments are measured at cost. The cost comprises purchase price and directly attributable acquisition charges such as brokerage, fees and duties. If an investment is acquired, or partly acquired, by the issue of shares or other securities, the acquisition cost is the fair value of the securities issued.

Current investments are carried in the financial statements at lower of cost and fair value determined on an individual investment basis. Long-term investments are carried at cost. However, provision for diminution in value is made to recognize a decline other than temporary in the value of the investments.

On disposal of an investment, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of profit and loss.

Investment Property

An investment in land or buildings, which is not intended to be occupied substantially for use by, or in the operations of, the company, is classified as investment property. Investment properties are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The cost comprises purchase price and directly attributable cost of bringing the investment property to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Depreciation on building component of investment property is calculated on a straight-line basis using the rate arrived at based on useful life estimated by the management. The Company has used depreciation rate of 3.34%.

On disposal of an investment property, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of profit and loss.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

j) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured. The following specific recognition basis is adopted:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published /displayed and is disclosed net of discounts.

Sale of News & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap

Revenue is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have passed on to the buyer and is disclosed net of sales return and discounts.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognized on the completion of job work as per terms of the agreement.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of client’s commercials.

Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from ‘shine.com’ and ‘hindustantimes. com’ by display of internet advertisements are typically contracted for a period of one to twelve months. Revenue in this respect is recognized over the period of the contract, in accordance with the established principles of accrual accounting. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue.

Revenue from subscription of packages of placement of job postings on ‘shine.com’ is recognized at the time the job postings are displayed based upon customer usage patterns, or upon expiry of the subscription package whichever is earlier.

Revenue from job fairs

Revenue is recognized upon completion of the job fairs.

Revenue from resume services

Revenue is recognized once the resume has been completed.

Interest/Income from Investments

Revenue is recognized on a time proportion basis taking into account the amount outstanding and the rate applicable. Income on investment made in the units of mutual funds is recognized based on the yield earned and to the extent of its reasonable certainty.

Dividend

Dividend Income is recognized when the Company’s right to receive the dividend is established by the reporting date.

Commission income

Commission income from sourcing of advertisement orders on behalf of other entities’ publications is recognised on printing of the advertisement in those publications.

k) Foreign currency translation

Foreign currency transactions and balances

(i) Initial recognition

Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the reporting currency, by applying to the foreign currency amount the exchange rate between the reporting currency and the foreign currency at the date of the transaction.

(ii) Conversion

Foreign currency monetary items are retranslated using the exchange rate prevailing at the reporting date. Nonmonetary items, which are measured in terms of historical cost denominated in a foreign currency, are reported using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Nonmonetary items, which are measured at fair value or other similar valuation denominated in a foreign currency, are translated using the exchange rate at the date when such value was determined.

(iii) Exchange differences

The Company accounts for exchange differences arising on translation/ settlement of foreign currency monetary items as below:

1. Exchange differences arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items related to acquisition of a fixed asset are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset.

2. Exchange differences arising on other long-term foreign currency monetary items are accumulated in the “Foreign Currency Monetary Item Translation Difference Account” and amortized over the remaining life of the concerned monetary item.

3. All other exchange differences are recognized as income or as expenses in the period in which they arise.

For the purpose of 1 and 2 above, the company treats a foreign monetary item as “long-term foreign currency monetary item”, if it has a term of 12 months or more at the date of its origination. In accordance with MCA circular dated 09 August 2012, exchange differences for this purpose, are total differences arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items for the period. In other words, the company does not differentiate between exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost and other exchange difference.

(iv) Forward exchange contracts entered into to hedge foreign currency risk of an existing asset/ liability

The premium or discount arising at the inception of forward exchange contract is amortized and recognized as an expense/ income over the life of the contract. Exchange differences on such contracts, except the contracts which are long-term foreign currency monetary items, are recognized in the statement of profit and loss in the period in which the exchange rates change. Any profit or loss arising on cancellation or renewal of such forward exchange contract is

also recognized as income or as expense for the period. Any gain/ loss arising on forward contracts which are long-term foreign currency monetary items is recognized in accordance with paragraph (iii)(1) and (iii)(2).

(v) Translation of integral foreign operation

The financial statements of an integral foreign operation are translated as if the transactions of the foreign operation have been those of the Company itself.

l) Retirement and other employee benefits

(i) Retirement benefits in the form of Provident Fund and Pension Schemes are defined contribution schemes and the contributions are charged to the statement of Profit and Loss for the year when an employee renders the related service. There are no other obligations other than the contribution payable to the respective funds. If the contribution payable to the scheme for service received before the balance sheet date exceeds the contribution already paid, the deficit payable to the scheme is recognized as a liability after deducting the contribution already paid. If the contribution already paid exceeds the contribution due for services received before the balance sheet date, then excess is recognized as an asset to the extent that the pre payment will lead to, for example, a reduction in future payment or a cash refund.

(ii) Gratuity is a defined benefit plan. The cost of providing benefits under the plan is determined on the basis of actuarial valuation at each year-end using the projected unit credit method and is contributed to Gratuity Fund created by the Company. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized in full in the period in which they occur in the statement of profit and loss.

(iii) Accumulated leave, which is expected to be utilized within the next 12 months, is treated as short-term employee benefit. The Company measures the expected cost of such absences as the additional amount that it expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement that has accumulated at the reporting date.

The Company treats accumulated leave expected to be carried forward beyond twelve months, as longterm employee benefit for measurement purposes. Such long-term compensated absences are provided for based on the actuarial valuation using the projected unit credit method at the year-end. Actuarial gains/losses are immediately taken to the statement of profit and loss and are not deferred. The Company presents the entire leave as current liability in the balance sheet, since it does not have an unconditional right to defer its settlement for 12 months after the reporting date.

m) Provisions

A provision is recognized when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past event and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, in respect of which a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of obligation. Provisions are not discounted to their present value and are determined based on best estimate required to settle the obligation at the reporting date. These are reviewed at each reporting date and are adjusted to reflect the current best estimates.

n) Income Taxes

Tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Current income-tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income-tax Act, 1 961 enacted in India and tax laws prevailing in the respective tax jurisdictions, where the Company operates. The tax rates and the tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Current income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of profit and loss.

Deferred Income-taxes reflects the impact of timing differences between taxable income and accounting income originating during the current year and reversal of timing differences for the earlier years. Deferred tax is measured using the tax rates and the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Deferred income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity

is recognized in equity and not in the statement of profit and loss.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable timing differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible timing differences only to the extent that there is reasonable certainty that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized. In situations where the Company has unabsorbed depreciation or carry forward tax losses, all deferred tax assets are recognized only if there is virtual certainty supported by convincing evidence that they can be realized against future taxable profits.

At each reporting date the Company re-assesses unrecognized deferred tax assets. It recognizes unrecognized deferred tax assets to the extent that it has become reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date. The Company writes-down the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which deferred tax asset can be realized. Any such write-down is reversed to the extent that it becomes reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) paid in a year is charged to the statement of profit and loss as current tax. The Company recognizes MAT credit available as an asset only to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Company

will pay normal income-tax during the specified future period. In the year in which the Company recognizes MAT credit as an asset in accordance with the Guidance Note on Accounting for Credit Available in respect of Minimum Alternative Tax under the Income-tax Act, 1961, the said asset is created by way of credit to the statement of profit and loss and shown as ‘MAT Credit Entitlement’. The Company reviews the ‘MAT Credit Entitlement’ asset at each reporting date and writes down the asset to the extent the Company does not have convincing evidence that it will pay normal tax during the specified period.

o) Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to equity shareholders by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period. The weighted average numbers of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for events of bonus issue, bonus element in a rights issue to existing shareholders, share split and reverse share split (consolidation of shares) that have changed the number of equity shares outstanding, without a corresponding change in resources.

For the purpose of calculating diluted earnings per share, the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.

p) Employee Stock Compensation Cost

Employees (including senior executives) of the company receive remuneration in the form of share based payment transactions, whereby employees render services as consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions).

Measurement and disclosure of the employee share-based payment plans is done in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits) Regulations, 2014 and the Guidance Note on Accounting for Employee Share-based Payments, issued by the

Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The Company measures compensation cost relating to employee stock options using the intrinsic value method. The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The expense or credit recognized in the statement of profit and loss for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognized as at the beginning and end of that period and is recognized in employee benefit scheme. Compensation cost is amortized over the vesting period of the option on a straight line basis.

q) Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents in the cash flow statement comprise cash at bank and in hand, cherubs in hand and short term investments with an original maturity of three months or less.

r) Segment Reporting Policies Identification of segments

The Company’s operating businesses are organized and managed separately according to the nature of products and services provided, with each segment representing a strategic business unit that offers different products and serves different markets. The analysis of geographical segments is based on the areas in which major operating divisions of the Company operate.

Inter segment Transfers

The Company generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties at current market prices.

Allocation of Common Costs

Common allocable costs are allocated to each segment on a rational basis based on nature of each such common cost.

Unallocated Items

Unallocated items include general corporate income and expense items which are not allocated to any business segment.

Segment Policies

The Company prepares its segment information in conformity with the accounting policies adopted for preparing and presenting the financial statements of the Company as a whole.

s) Derivative Instruments

The Company uses derivative financial instruments, such as, foreign currency forward contracts to hedge foreign currency risk arising from future transactions in respect of which firm commitments are made or which are highly probable forecast transactions. It also uses interest rate swaps to hedge interest rate risk arising from variable rate loans. As per the ICAI Announcement, derivative contracts, other than those covered under Accounting Standard-11, are accounted on the basis of hedging principles to the extent that the same does not conflict with the existing mandatory Accounting Standards, other authoritative pronouncements and other regulatory requirements.

t) Contingent liabilities

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the Company or a present obligation that is not recognized because it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. A contingent liability also arises in extremely rare cases where there is a liability that cannot be recognized because it cannot be measured reliably. The Company does not recognize a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the financial statements.

u) Measurement of EBITDA

The Company has elected to present earnings before interest expense, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as a separate line item on the face of the statement of profit and loss. The Company measures EBITDA on the basis of profit/ (loss) from continuing operations. In its measurement, the Company does not include depreciation and amortization expense, finance costs and tax expense.

(b) Terms/rights attached to equity shares

The Company has only one class of equity shares having par value of '' 2 per share. Each holder of equity shares is entitled to one vote per share. The Company declares and pays dividends in Indian rupees. The dividend proposed by the Board of Directors is subject to the approval of the shareholders in the ensuing Annual General Meeting.

During the year ended 31 March 2016, the amount of per share dividend recognized as distributions to equity shareholders was Rs, 0.40 (Previous Year: Rs, 0.40).

In the event of liquidation of the Company, the holders of equity shares will be entitled to receive remaining assets of the Company, after distribution of all preferential amounts. The distribution will be in proportion to the number of equity shares held by the shareholders.

(c) Shares held by holding/ ultimate holding company and/ or their subsidiaries/ associates

Out of the equity shares issued by the Company shares held by its holding company and subsidiary of holding company are as below:

* As the financial statements are represented in Rs, Lacs and number of shares are represented in Lacs above, thus the same has not been considered in table above.

**As on 31 March 2016, Government Pension Fund Global has 97,85,517 shares being 4.20% of the share capital.

As per records of the Company, including its register of shareholders/members and other declaration received from the shareholders regarding beneficial interest, the above shareholding represents both legal and beneficial ownerships of shares.

1. FCNR Loan from Citi Bank carries interest @ USD 1 month Libor 1.90% spread p.a. The loan is repayable in 8 semiannual equal installments of USD 8,75,000 starting from 31 January 2016. The loan is secured by Pari Passu charge on company’s all present & future movable fixed assets.

2. External Commercial borrowing from Citi bank carries interest @ USD 3 months Libor 1.50% spread p.a. The loan is repayable in 8 semiannual equal installments of USD 15,62,500 starting from 31 December 2013. The loan is secured by Pari Passu charge on company’s present & future movable fixed assets at (A) Noida - B-2, sector 63, District Gautam Budh Nagar, Noida -201307 (B) plot No.-8, Udyog Vihar Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh-201306, and first and exclusive charge in favour of Citibank N.A. on assets acquired/ to be acquired out of our ECB and LC facilities of USD 32.5 Mn, to secure Citibank’s ECB, LC and hedging limits. The loan is further secured by pledge of Company’s investment in Debt Mutual Funds.

1. Buyer’s credit from BNP Paribas is secured by way of first pari passu charge over all moveable assets such as raw materials, stock-in-process, finished goods lying at various factories, god owns, warehouses, etc, wherever situated or in transit, both present or future and book debts of the Company and all book debts, outstanding monies, receivables, claims, bills which are due and which may at any time during the continuance of this security become due by any person, firm, company or body corporate. The amount has been repaid during the year.

2. Buyer’s credit from Royal Bank of Scotland is secured by way of first pari passu charge on all current assets (both present and future) in favour of bank. The amount has been repaid during the year.

3. Buyer’s credit from Kotak Mahindra Bank is secured by first Pari-passu charge on all present and future current assets of the Company including book debts, receivables, outstanding monies etc, stock of raw material, semi finished goods, related movables, together with benefit of all rights thereto. The amount has been repaid during the year.

b. Plant & Machinery having a gross value of Rs, 86.61 Lacs (Previous year Rs, 86.61 Lacs) towards Company’s proportionate share for right to use in the Common Infrastructure for channel transmission (for its four stations) built on land owned by Prasar Bharti and used by all the broadcasters at respective stations as per the terms of bid document on FM Radio Broadcasting (Phase II).

1) 10.05 lac Zero Coupon Compulsorily Convertible Debentures of Rs, 100/- each, fully paid, converted into 70.77 lac equity shares of Rs, 10/- each during the year.

* Classified as current portion of long term investments during the year.

** These investments are pledged with Deutsche Bank against Over Draft Facility.

*** 64.75 Lacs units of Rs, 10/- each are pledged with Deutsche Bank against OD facility.

**** 1.43 Lacs units of Rs, 1000/- each are pledged with Deutsche Bank against OD facility.

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Mar 31, 2015

A) Change in Accounting Policy:

Depreciation on fixed assets

Till the year ended 31 March 2014, Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, prescribed requirements concerning depreciation of fixed assets. From the current year, Schedule XIV has been replaced by Schedule II to the Companies Act, 2013. The applicability of Schedule II has resulted in the following changes related to depreciation of fixed assets.

Useful lives/ depreciation rates

Till the year ended 31 March 2014, depreciation rates prescribed under Schedule XIV of Companies Act, 1956 were treated as minimum rates and the company was not allowed to charge depreciation at lower rates even if such lower rates were justified by the estimated useful life of the asset. Schedule II to the Companies Act 2013 prescribes useful lives for fixed assets which, in many cases, are different from lives prescribed under the erstwhile Schedule XIV However, Schedule II allows companies to use higher/ lower useful lives and residual values if such useful lives and residual values can be technically supported and justification for difference is disclosed in the financial statements.

Considering the applicability of Schedule II, the management has re-estimated useful lives and residual values of all its fixed assets. Accordingly, the management based on internal assessment of the life of the existing assets has revised the useful lives of certain fixed assets. The company has used transitional provisions of Schedule II to adjust the impact of change in remaining useful life of the asset arising on its first application. If an asset has zero remaining useful life on the date of Schedule II becoming effective, i.e., 1 April 2014, its carrying amount, after retaining any residual value, net of tax impact, is charged to the opening balance of retained earnings. The carrying amount of other assets, i.e., assets whose remaining useful life is not nil on 1 April 2014, is depreciated over their remaining useful life. Accordingly, the Company has charged Rs. 400.31 lacs to the opening balance of retained earnings.

The management believes that depreciation rates currently used with respect to the fixed assets except for those mentioned above, fairly reflect its estimate of the useful lives and residual values of fixed assets, though these rates in certain cases are different from lives prescribed under Schedule II.

Had the company continued to use the earlier policy of depreciating fixed asset, the profit for the current period would have been higher by Rs. 419.83 lacs (net of tax impact of Rs. 222.19 lacs), retained earnings at the beginning of the current period would have been higher by Rs. 400.31 lacs (net of tax impact of Rs. 206.13 lacs) and the fixed asset would correspondingly have been higher byRs. 1,248.46 lacs.

b) Use of estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Indian GAAP requires the management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities, at the end of reporting period. Although these estimates are based upon management''s best knowledge of current events and actions, uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in the outcomes requiring a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets or liabilities in future periods.

c) Tangible assets

Value for individual Fixed assets acquired from ''The Hindustan Times Limited'' (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent expert at the time of acquisition.

Other Fixed Assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discount and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Subsequent expenditure related to an item of fixed asset is added to its book value only if it increases the future benefits from the existing asset beyond its previously assessed standard of performance. All other expenses on existing fixed assets, including day-to-day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

The Company adjusts exchange differences arising on translation/ settlement of long-term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to acquisition of a depreciable asset to the cost of the asset and depreciates the same over the remaining life of the asset. In accordance with MCA circular dated August 9, 2012, exchange differences adjusted to the cost of fixed assets are total differences, arising on long- term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to the acquisition of a depreciable asset, for the period. In other words, the Company does not differentiate between exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost and other exchange differences.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of fixed assets are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interior furnishings, etc on the leased premises at various locations.

d) Depreciation

Depreciation on fixed assets are provided on Straight Line Method at the rates computed based on estimated useful life of the assets estimated by the management.

The Company has used the following rates to provide depreciation on its fixed assets.

The management has estimated, supported by technical assessment, the useful lives of certain plant and machinery as 16 to 21 Years. These lives are higher than those indicated in schedule II.

Leasehold Land is amortized on a straight line basis over the period of lease (ranging between 53 years to 95 years).

Leasehold Improvements are amortized on a straight line basis over the useful life not exceeding 10 years or over the life of lease, whichever is lower.

e) Intangibles Assets and Amortisation

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Internally generated intangible assets, excluding capitalized development costs, are not capitalized and expenditure is reflected in the statement of profit and loss in the year in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert at the time of acquisition.

Intangible assets are amortized on a straight line basis over the estimated useful economic life. The Company uses a rebuttable presumption that the useful life of an intangible asset will not exceed ten years from the date when the asset is available for use. If the persuasive evidence exists to the affect that useful life of an intangible asset exceeds ten years, the Company amortizes the intangible asset over the best estimate of its useful life. Such intangible assets and intangible assets not yet available for use are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. All other intangible assets are assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired.

The amortization period and the amortization method is reviewed at least at each financial year end. If the expected useful life of the asset is significantly different from previous estimates, the amortization period is changed accordingly. If there is a significant change in the expected pattern of economic benefits from the asset, the amortization method is changed to reflect the changed pattern. Such changes are accounted for in accordance with AS 5 Net Profit or Loss for the Period, Prior Period Items and Changes in Accounting Policies.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

License fees are charged to statement of profit and loss at the rate of 4% of gross revenue for the reporting period or 10% of Reserve One Time Entry Fee (ROTEF) for the concerned city, whichever is higher. Gross Revenue for this purpose is revenue derived on the basis of billing rates inclusive of any taxes and without deduction of any discount given to the advertiser and any commission paid to advertising agencies. ROTEF means 25% of highest valid bid in the city.

Software licenses acquired from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than that envisaged above, are amortised over such estimated lower residual lives.

Software licenses costing below Rs. 5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

f) Expenditure on new projects and substantial expansion

Expenditure directly relating to construction activity is capitalized. Indirect expenditure incurred during construction period is capitalized as part of the indirect construction cost to the extent the expenditure is directly related to construction or is incidental thereto. Other indirect expenditure (including borrowing costs) incurred during the construction period, which is not related to the construction activity nor is incidental thereto is charged to the statement of Profit and Loss. Income earned during construction period is adjusted against the total of the indirect expenditure.

All direct capital expenditure incurred on expansion is capitalized. As regards indirect expenditure on expansion, only that portion is capitalized which represents the marginal increase in such expenditure involved as a result of capital expansion. Both direct and indirect expenditure are capitalized only if they increase the value of the asset beyond its originally assessed standard of performance.

g) Leases

Where the Company is lessee

Finance leases, which effectively transfer to the Company substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are capitalized at the inception of the lease term at the lower of the fair value of the leased property and present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognized as finance costs in the statement of profit and loss. Lease management fees, legal charges and other initial direct costs of lease are capitalized.

A leased asset is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the asset. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain the ownership by the end of the lease term, the capitalized leased assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term.

Lease where the lessor effectively retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the leased item, are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments/receipts are recognized as an expense/ income in the statement of profit and loss on a straight- line basis over the lease term.

h) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest and amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings, other than arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items, to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of the respective asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period they occur.

i) Impairment of tangible and intangible assets

The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset''s recoverable amount. An asset''s recoverable amount is higher of an asset''s or it''s cash-generating unit''s (CGU) net selling price and its value in use. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining net selling price, recent market transactions are taken into account, if available. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations which are prepared separately for each of the Company''s cash-generating units to which the individual assets are allocated.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognized in the statement of profit and loss.

After impairment, depreciation is provided on the revised carrying amount of the asset over its remaining useful life.

j) Investments

Investments, which are readily realizable and intended to be held for not more than one year from the date on which such investments are made, are classified as current investments. All other investments are classified as long-term investments.

On initial recognition, all investments are measured at cost. The cost comprises purchase price and directly attributable acquisition charges such as brokerage, fees and duties. If an investment is acquired, or partly acquired, by the issue of shares or other securities, the acquisition cost is the fair value of the securities issued.

Current investments are carried in the financial statements at lower of cost and fair value determined on an individual investment basis. Long-term investments are carried at cost. However, provision for diminution in value is made to recognize a decline other than temporary in the value of the investments.

On disposal of an investment, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of profit and loss.

Investment Property

An investment in land or buildings, which is not intended to be occupied substantially for use by, or in the operations of, the company, is classified as investment property. Investment properties are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The cost comprises purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and directly attributable cost of bringing the investment property to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Depreciation on building component of investment property is calculated on a straight-line basis using the rate arrived at based on useful life estimated by the management. The Company has used depreciation rate of 3.34%.

On disposal of an investment property, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of profit and loss.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

l) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured. The following specific recognition basis is adopted:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published /displayed and is disclosed net of discounts.

Sale of News & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap

Revenue is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have passed on to the buyer and is disclosed net of sales return and discounts.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognized on the completion of job work as per terms of the agreement.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of client''s commercials.

Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from ''shine.com'' and ''hindustantimes.com'' by display of internet advertisements are typically contracted for a period of one to twelve months. Revenue in this respect is recognized over the period of the contract, in accordance with the established principles of accrual accounting. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue.

Revenue from subscription of packages of placement of job postings on ''shine.com'' is recognized at the time the job postings are displayed based upon customer usage patterns, or upon expiry of the subscription package whichever is earlier

Revenue from job fairs

Revenue is recognized upon completion of the job fairs.

Revenue from resume services

Revenue is recognized once the resume has been completed.

Interest/Income from Investments

Revenue is recognized on a time proportion basis taking into account the amount outstanding and the rate applicable. Income on investment made in the units of mutual funds is recognized based on the yield earned and to the extent of its reasonable certainty.

Dividend

Dividend Income is recognized when the Company''s right to receive the dividend is established by the reporting date.

Commission income

Commission income from sourcing of advertisement orders on behalf of other entities'' publications is recognised on printing of the advertisement in those publications.

m) Foreign currency transactions

Foreign currency transactions and balances

(i) Initial recognition

Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the reporting currency, by applying to the foreign currency amount the exchange rate between the reporting currency and the foreign currency at the date of the transaction.

(ii) Conversion

Foreign currency monetary items are retranslated using the exchange rate prevailing at the reporting date. Non-monetary items, which are measured in terms of historical cost denominated in a foreign currency, are reported using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items, which are measured at fair value or other similar valuation denominated in a foreign currency, are translated using the exchange rate at the date when such value was determined.

(iii) Exchange differences

The Company accounts for exchange differences arising on translation/ settlement of foreign currency monetary items as below:

1. Exchange differences arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items related to acquisition of a fixed asset are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset.

2. Exchange differences arising on other long- term foreign currency monetary items are accumulated in the "Foreign Currency Monetary Item Translation Difference Account" and amortized over the remaining life of the concerned monetary item.

3. All other exchange differences are recognized as income or as expenses in the period in which they arise.

For the purpose of 1 and 2 above, the company treats a foreign monetary item as "long-term foreign currency monetary item", if it has a term of 12 months or more at the date of its origination. In accordance with MCA circular dated 09 August 2012, exchange differences for this purpose, are total differences arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items for the period. In other words, the company does not differentiate between exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost and other exchange difference.

(iv) Forward exchange contracts entered into to hedge foreign currency risk of an existing asset/ liability.

The premium or discount arising at the inception of forward exchange contract is amortized and recognized as an expense/ income over the life of the contract. Exchange differences on such contracts, except the contracts which are long-term foreign currency monetary items, are recognized in the statement of profit and loss in the period in which the exchange rates change. Any profit or loss arising on cancellation or renewal of such forward exchange contract is also recognized as income or as expense for the period. Any gain/ loss arising on forward contracts which are long-term foreign currency monetary items is recognized in accordance with paragraph (iii)(1) and (iii)(2).

(v) Translation of integral foreign operation

The financial statements of an integral foreign operation are translated as if the transactions of the foreign operation have been those of the Company itself.

n) Retirement and other employee benefits

i. Retirement benefits in the form of Provident Fund and Pension Schemes are defined contribution schemes and the contributions are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the year when an employee renders the related service. There are no other obligations other than the contribution payable to the respective funds.

ii. Gratuity is a defined benefit plan. The cost of providing benefits under the plan is determined on the basis of actuarial valuation at each year- end using the projected unit credit method and is contributed to Gratuity Fund created by the Company. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized in full in the period in which they occur in the statement of profit and loss.

iii. Accumulated leave, which is expected to be utilized within the next 12 months, is treated as short-term employee benefit. The Company measures the expected cost of such absences as the additional amount that it expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement that has accumulated at the reporting date.

The Company treats accumulated leave expected to be carried forward beyond twelve months, as long-term employee benefit for measurement purposes. Such long-term compensated absences are provided for based on the actuarial valuation using the projected unit credit method at the year- end. Actuarial gains/losses are immediately taken to the statement of profit and loss and are not deferred. The Company presents the entire leave as current liability in the balance sheet, since it does not have as unconditional right to defer its settlement for 12 months after the reporting date.

o) Provisions

A provision is recognized when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past event and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, in respect of which a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of obligation. Provisions are not discounted to their present value and are determined based on best estimate required to settle the obligation at the repoting date. These are reviewed at each reporting date and are adjusted to reflect the current best estimates.

p) Income Taxes

Tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Current income-tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income-tax Act, 1961 enacted in India and tax laws prevailing in the respective tax jurisdictions, where the Company operates. The tax rates and the tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Current income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of profit and loss.

Deferred Income-taxes reflects the impact of timing differences between taxable income and accounting income originating during the current year and reversal of timing differences for the earlier years. Deferred tax is measured using the tax rates and the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Deferred income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of profit and loss.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable timing differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible timing differences only to the extent that there is reasonable certainty that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized. In situations where the Company has unabsorbed depreciation or carry forward tax losses, all deferred tax assets are recognized only if there is virtual certainty supported by convincing evidence that they can be realized against future taxable profits.

At each reporting date the Company re-assesses unrecognized deferred tax assets. It recognizes unrecognized deferred tax assets to the extent that it has become reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realised.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date. The Company writes-down the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which deferred tax asset can be realized. Any such write-down is reversed to the extent that it becomes reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) paid in a year is charged to the statement of profit and loss as current tax. The Company recognises MAT credit available as an asset only to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Company will pay normal income-tax during the specified future period. In the year in which the Company recognises MAT credit as an asset in accordance with the Guidance Note on Accounting for Credit Available in respect of Minimum Alternative Tax under the Income-tax Act, 1961, the said asset is created by way of credit to the statement of profit and loss and shown as ''MAT Credit Entitlement''. The Company reviews the ''MAT Credit Entitlement'' asset at each reporting date and writes down the asset to the extent the Company does not have convincing evidence that it will pay normal tax during the specified period.

q) Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per Share are calculated by dividing the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to Equity Shareholders by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period. The weighted average numbers of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for events of bonus issue, bonus element in a rights issue to existing shareholders, share split and reverse share split (consolidation of shares) that have changed the number of equity shares outstanding, without a corresponding change in resources.

For the purpose of calculating diluted earnings per share, the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.

r) Employee Stock Compensation Cost

Employees (including senior executives) of the company receive remuneration in the form of share based payment transactions, whereby employees renders services as considerations for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions).

Measurement and disclosure of the employee share- based payment plans is done in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits) Regulations, 2014 and the Guidance Note on Accounting for Employee Share-based Payments, issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The Company measures compensation cost relating to employee stock options using the intrinsic value method. The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Company''s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The expense or credit recognized in the statement of profit and loss for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognized as at the beginning and end of that period and is recognized in employee benefit scheme. Compensation cost is amortized over the vesting period of the option on a straight line basis.

s) Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents in the cash flow statement comprise cash at bank and in hand, cheques in hand and short term investments with an original maturity of three months or less.

t) Segment Reporting Policies

Identification of segments:

The Company''s operating businesses are organized and managed separately according to the nature of products and services provided, with each segment representing a strategic business unit that offers different products and serves different markets. The analysis of geographical segments is based on the areas in which major operating divisions of the Company operate.

Inter segment Transfers:

The Company generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties at current market prices.

Allocation of Common Costs:

Common allocable costs are allocated to each segment on a rational basis based on nature of each such common cost.

Unallocated Items:

Unallocated items include general corporate income and expense items which are not allocated to any business segment.

Segment Policies:

The Company prepares its segment information in conformity with the accounting policies adopted for preparing and presenting the financial statements of the Company as a whole.

u) Derivatives instruments

The Company uses derivative financial instruments, such as, foreign currency forward contracts to hedge foreign currency risk arising from future transactions in respect of which firm commitments are made or which are highly probable forecast transactions. It also uses interest rate swaps to hedge interest rate risk arising from variable rate loans. As per the ICAI Announcement, derivative contracts, other than those covered under Accounting Standard-11, are accounted on the basis of hedging principles to the extent that the same does not conflict with the existing mandatory Accounting Standards, other Authoritative pronouncements and other regulatory requirements.

v) Contingent liabilities

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the Company or a present obligation that is not recognized because it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. A contingent liability also arises in extremely rare cases where there is a liability that cannot be recognized because it cannot be measured reliably. The Company does not recognize a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the financial statements.

w) Measurement of EBITDA

The Company has elected to present earnings before interest expense, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as a separate line item on the face of the statement of profit and loss. The Company measures EBITDA on the basis of profit/ (loss) from continuing operations. In its measurement, the Company does not include depreciation and amortization expense, finance costs and tax expense.

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Mar 31, 2014

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Indian GAAP requires the management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and of the result of operations during the reporting period end. Although these estimates are based upon management''s best knowledge of current events and actions, uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in the outcomes requiring a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets or liabilities in future periods.

b) Tangible assets

Value for individual fixed assets acquired from ''The Hindustan Times Limited'' (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent expert at the time of acquisition.

Other fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use.

Subsequent expenditure related to an item of fixed asset is added to its book value only if it increases the future benefits from the existing asset beyond its previously assessed standard of performance. All other expenses on existing fixed assets, including day-to-day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

The Company adjusts exchange differences arising on translation/ settlement of long-term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to acquisition of a depreciable asset to the cost of the asset and depreciates the same over the remaining life of the asset. In accordance with MCA circular dated August 9, 2012, exchange differences adjusted to the cost of fixed assets are total differences, arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to the acquisition of a depreciable asset, for the period. In other words, the Company does not differentiate between exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost and other exchange differences.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of fixed assets are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interior furnishings, etc on the leased premises at various locations.

c) Depreciation

Depreciation on fixed assets (other than those acquired from the holding company in earlier years) are provided on Straight Line Method at the rates computed based on estimated useful life of the assets which are greater than or equal to the corresponding rates prescribed in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956 as mentioned below.

The Company has used the following rates to provide depreciation on its fixed assets.

In respect of fixed assets acquired in an earlier year from the holding company, depreciation is provided on Straight Line basis at rates as per the useful lives of the assets estimated by an independent valuer or the corresponding rates prescribed in Schedule XIV of the Companies Act, 1956, whichever is higher.

Assets costing below Rs.5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

Leasehold Land is amortized on a straight line basis over the period of lease (ranging between 55 years to 95 years).

Leasehold Improvements are amortized on a straight line basis over the useful life not exceeding 10 years or over the life of lease, whichever is lower.

d) Intangibles

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Internally generated intangible assets, excluding capitalized development costs, are not capitalized and expenditure is refected in the statement of profit and loss in the year in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert.

Intangible assets are amortized on a straight line basis over the estimated useful economic life. The Company uses a rebuttable presumption that the useful life of an intangible asset will not exceed ten years from the date when the asset is available for use. If the persuasive evidence exists to the affect that useful life of an intangible asset exceeds ten years, the Company amortizes the intangible asset over the best estimate of its useful life. Such intangible assets and intangible assets not yet available for use are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. All other intangible assets are assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired.

The amortization period and the amortization method of the intangible assets are reviewed at each financial year end for its expected useful life and the expected pattern of economic benefits. If there is a significant change in expected useful life or the expected pattern of economic benefits, the amortization period/method is adjusted to refect the change. Such changes are accounted for in accordance with AS 5 Net profit or Loss for the Period, Prior Period Items and Changes in Accounting Policies.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

License fees are charged to statement of profit and loss at the rate of 4% of gross revenue for the reporting period or 10% of Reserve One Time Entry Fee (ROTEF) for the concerned city, whichever is higher. Gross Revenue for this purpose is revenue derived on the basis of billing rates inclusive of any taxes and without deduction of any discount given to the advertiser and any commission paid to advertising agencies. ROTEF means 25% of highest valid bid in the city.

A summary of amortization policies applied to the Company''s intangible assets is as below:

Useful life (in years)

Website Development 6

Software Licenses 5-6

License Fees (One time entry fee) 10

Music Contents (for Radio Business) 4

Software licenses acquired from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than that envisaged above, are amortized over such estimated lower residual lives.

Software licenses costing below Rs.5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

e) Expenditure on new projects and substantial expansion

Expenditure directly relating to construction activity is capitalized. Indirect expenditure incurred during construction year is capitalized as part of the indirect construction cost to the extent the expenditure is directly related to construction or is incidental thereto and represents the marginal increase in such expenditure as a result of the capital expansion. Other indirect expenditure (including borrowing costs) incurred during the construction year, which is not related to the construction activity nor is incidental thereto, are charged to the statement of profit and loss. Related income earned during construction period is adjusted against the total of the indirect expenditure.

f) Leases

Where the Company is lessee

Finance leases, which effectively transfer to the Company substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are capitalized at the inception of the lease term at the lower of the fair value of the leased property and present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognized as finance costs in the statement of profit and loss. Lease management fees, legal charges and other initial direct costs of lease are capitalized.

A leased asset is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the asset or the useful life envisaged in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, whichever is lower. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain the ownership by the end of the lease term, the capitalized leased assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset, the lease term or the useful life envisaged in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956.

Lease where the lessor effectively retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the leased item, are classifed as operating leases. Operating lease payments/ receipts are recognized as an expense/income in the statement of profit and loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

g) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest and amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings, other than arising on long term foreign currency monetary items, to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of the respective asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period they occur.

h) Impairment of tangible and intangible assets

The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset''s recoverable amount. An asset''s recoverable amount is higher of an asset''s or it''s cash-generating unit''s (CGU) net selling price and its value in use. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that refects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks Specific to the asset. In determining net selling price, recent market transactions are taken into account, if available. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations which are prepared separately for each of the Company''s cash-generating units to which the individual assets are allocated.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognized in the statement of profit and loss.

After impairment, depreciation is provided on the revised carrying amount of the asset over its remaining useful life.

i) Investments

Investments, which are readily realizable and intended to be held for not more than one year from the date on which such investments are made, are classifed as current investments. All other investments are classifed as long-term investments.

On initial recognition, all investments are measured at cost. The cost comprises purchase price and directly attributable acquisition charges such as brokerage, fees and duties. If an investment is acquired, or partly acquired, by the issue of shares or other securities, the acquisition cost is the fair value of the securities issued.

Current investments are carried in the financial statements at lower of cost and fair value determined on an individual investment basis. Long-term investments are carried at cost. However, provision for diminution in value is made to recognize a decline other than temporary in the value of the investments.

On disposal of an investment, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of profit and loss.

Investment Property

An investment in land or buildings, which is not intended to be occupied substantially for use by, or in the operations of, the company, is classifed as investment property. Investment properties are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The cost comprises purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and directly attributable cost of bringing the investment property to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Depreciation on building component of investment property is calculated on a straight-line basis using the rate arrived at based on useful life estimated by the management, or that prescribed under the Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, whichever is higher. The Company has used depreciation rate of 3.34%.

On disposal of an investment property, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of profit and loss.

j) Inventories

Raw materials, stores and spares

Lower of cost and net realizable value. However, material and other items held for use in the production of inventories are not written down below cost if the fnished products in which they will be incorporated are expected to be sold at or above cost. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.

Work-in-progress and fnished goods

Lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost includes direct materials and a proportion of manufacturing overheads based on normal operating capacity. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.

Scrap and Waste papers

At net realizable value.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

k) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will fow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured. Specifically, the following basis is adopted:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published /displayed and is disclosed net of discounts.

Sale of News & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap

Revenue is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have passed on to the buyer and is disclosed net of sales return and discounts.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognized on the completion of job work as per terms of the agreement.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of client''s commercials.

Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from ''shine.com'' and ''hindustantimes.com'' by display of internet advertisements are typically contracted for a period of one to twelve months. Revenue in this respect is recognized over the period of the contract, in accordance with the established principles of accrual accounting. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue.

Revenue from subscription of packages of placement of job postings on ''shine.com'' is recognized at the time the job postings are displayed based upon customer usage patterns, or upon expiry of the subscription package whichever is earlier

Revenue from job fairs

Revenue is recognized upon completion of the job fairs.

Revenue from resume services

Revenue is recognized once the resume has been completed.

Interest/Income from Investments

Revenue is recognized on a time proportion basis taking into account the amount outstanding and the rate applicable. Income on investment made in the units of mutual funds is recognized based on the yield earned and to the extent of its reasonable certainty.

Dividend

Dividend Income is recognized when the Company''s right to receive the dividend is established by the reporting date.

Commission income

Commission income from sourcing of advertisement orders on behalf of other entities'' publications is recognized on printing of the advertisement in those publications.

l) Foreign currency transactions

Foreign currency transactions and balances

(i) Initial recognition

Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the reporting currency, by applying to the foreign currency amount the exchange rate between the reporting currency and the foreign currency at the date of the transaction.

(ii) Conversion

Foreign currency monetary items are retranslated using the exchange rate prevailing at the reporting date. Non-monetary items, which are measured in terms of historical cost denominated in a foreign currency, are reported using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items, which are measured at fair value or other similar valuation denominated in a foreign currency, are translated using the exchange rate at the date when such value was determined.

(iii) Exchange differences

The Company accounts for exchange differences arising on translation/ settlement of foreign currency monetary items as below:

1. Exchange differences arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items related to acquisition of a fixed asset are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset.

2. Exchange differences arising on other long-term foreign currency monetary items are accumulated in the "Foreign Currency Monetary Item Translation Difference Account" and amortized over the remaining life of the concerned monetary item.

3. All other exchange differences are recognized as income or as expenses in the period in which they arise.

For the purpose of 1 and 2 above, the company treats a foreign monetary item as "long-term foreign currency monetary item", if it has a term of 12 months or more at the date of its origination. In accordance with MCA circular dated August 9, 2012, exchange differences for this purpose, are total differences arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items for the period. In other words, the company does not differentiate between exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost and other exchange difference.

(iv) Forward exchange contracts entered into to hedge foreign currency risk of an existing asset/ liability.

The premium or discount arising at the inception of forward exchange contract is amortized and recognized as an expense/ income over the life of the contract. Exchange differences on such contracts, except the contracts which are long-term foreign currency monetary items, are recognized in the statement of profit and loss in the period in which the exchange rates change. Any profit or loss arising on cancellation or renewal of such forward exchange contract is also recognized as income or as expense for the period. Any gain/ loss arising on forward contracts which are long-term foreign currency monetary items is recognized in accordance with paragraph (iii)(1) and (iii)(2).

(v) Translation of integral foreign operation

The financial statements of an integral foreign operation are translated as if the transactions of the foreign operation have been those of the Company itself.

m) Retirement and other employee benefits

i. Retirement benefits in the form of Provident Fund and Pension Schemes are Defined contribution schemes and the contributions are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the year when an employee renders the related service. There are no other obligations other than the contribution payable to the respective funds.

ii. Gratuity is a Defined benefit plan. The cost of providing benefits under the plan is determined on the basis of actuarial valuation at each year-end using the projected unit credit method and is contributed to Gratuity Fund created by the Company. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized in full in the period in which they occur in the statement of profit and loss.

iii. Accumulated leave, which is expected to be utilized within the next 12 months, is treated as short- term employee benefit. The Company measures the expected cost of such absences as the additional amount that it expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement that has accumulated at the reporting date.

The Company treats accumulated leave expected to be carried forward beyond twelve months, as long- term employee benefit for measurement purposes. Such long-term compensated absences are provided for based on the actuarial valuation using the projected unit credit method at the year-end. Actuarial gains/losses are immediately taken to the statement of profit and loss and are not deferred. The Company presents the entire leave as current liability in the balance sheet, since it does not have as unconditional right to defer its settlement for 12 months after the reporting date.

n) Provisions

A provision is recognized when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past event and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, in respect of which a reliable estimate can be made. Provisions are not discounted to their present value and are determined based on best estimate required to settle the obligation at the repoting date. These are reviewed at each reporting date and are adjusted to refect the current best estimates.

o) Income Taxes

Tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Current income-tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income-tax Act, 1961 enacted in India and tax laws prevailing in the respective tax jurisdictions, where the Company operates. The tax rates and the tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Current income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of profit and loss.

Deferred Income-taxes refects the impact of timing differences between taxable income and accounting income originating during the current year and reversal of timing differences for the earlier years. Deferred tax is measured using the tax rates and the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Deferred income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of profit and loss.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable timing differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible timing differences only to the extent that there is reasonable certainty that suffcient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized. In situations where the Company has unabsorbed depreciation or carry forward tax losses, all deferred tax assets are recognized only if there is virtual certainty supported by convincing evidence that they can be realized against future taxable profits.

At each reporting date the Company re-assesses unrecognized deferred tax assets. It recognizes unrecognized deferred tax assets to the extent that it has become reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that suffcient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date. The Company writes-down the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that suffcient future taxable income will be available against which deferred tax asset can be realized. Any such write-down is reversed to the extent that it becomes reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that suffcient future taxable income will be available.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) paid in a year is charged to the statement of profit and loss as current tax. The Company recognizes MAT credit available as an asset only to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Company will pay normal income-tax during the specified future period. In the year in which the Company recognizes MAT credit as an asset in accordance with the Guidance Note on Accounting for Credit Available in respect of Minimum Alternative Tax under the Income-tax Act, 1961, the said asset is created by way of credit to the statement of profit and loss and shown as ''MAT Credit Entitlement''. The Company reviews the ''MAT Credit Entitlement'' asset at each reporting date and writes down the asset to the extent the Company does not have convincing evidence that it will pay normal tax during the specified period.

p) Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per Share are calculated by dividing the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to Equity Shareholders by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period. The weighted average numbers of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for events of bonus issue, bonus element in a rights issue to existing shareholders, share split and reverse share split (consolidation of shares) that have changed the number of equity shares outstanding, without a corresponding change in resources.

For the purpose of calculating diluted earnings per share, the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.

q) Employee Stock Compensation Cost

Measurement and disclosure of the employee share-based payment plans is done in accordance with SEBI (Employee Stock Option Scheme and Employee Stock Purchase Scheme) Guidelines, 1999 and the Guidance Note on Accounting for Employee Share-based Payments, issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The Company measures compensation cost relating to employee stock options using the intrinsic value method. The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date refects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Company''s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The expense or credit recognized in the statement of profit and loss for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognized as at the beginning and end of that period and is recognized in employee benefit scheme. Compensation cost is amortized over the vesting period of the option on a straight line basis.

r) Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents in the cash fow statement comprise cash at bank and in hand, cheques in hand and short-term investments with an original maturity of three months or less.

s) Segment Reporting Policies

Identification of segments:

The Company''s operating businesses are organized and managed separately according to the nature of products and services provided, with each segment representing a strategic business unit that offers different products and serves different markets. The analysis of geographical segments is based on the areas in which major operating divisions of the Company operate.

Inter segment Transfers:

The Company generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties at current market prices.

Allocation of Common Costs:

Common allocable costs are allocated to each segment on a rational basis based on nature of each such common cost.

Unallocated Items:

Unallocated items include general corporate income and expense items which are not allocated to any business segment.

Segment Policies:

The Company prepares its segment information in conformity with the accounting policies adopted for preparing and presenting the financial statements of the Company as a whole.

t) Derivatives instruments

The Company uses derivative financial instruments, such as, foreign currency forward contracts to hedge foreign currency risk arising from future transactions in respect of which firm commitments are made or which are highly probable forecast transactions. It also uses interest rate swaps to hedge interest rate risk arising from variable rate loans. As per the ICAI Announcement, derivative contracts, other than those covered under Accounting Standard-11, are accounted on the basis of hedging principles to the extent that the same does not confict with the existing mandatory Accounting Standards, other Authoritative pronouncements and other regulatory requirements.

u) Contingent liabilities

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the Company or a present obligation that is not recognized because it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. A contingent liability also arises in extremely rare cases where there is a liability that cannot be recognized because it cannot be measured reliably. The Company does not recognize a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the financial statements.

v) Measurement of EBITDA

As permitted by the Guidance Note on the Revised Schedule VI to the Companies Act, 1956, the Company has elected to present earnings before interest expense, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as a separate line item on the face of the statement of profit and loss. The Company measures EBITDA on the basis of profit/ (loss) from continuing operations. In its measurement, the Company does not include depreciation and amortization expense, finance costs and tax expense.

*Six (6) equity shares of Rs.2/- each aggregating to Rs.12/- have been allotted on March 31, 2014 for a consideration other than cash pursuant to the Scheme of Arrangement and Restructuring [Refer Note 34 (a)]. As the financial statements are represented in Rs. lacs and number of shares are represented in lacs above, thus the same has not been considered in table above.

(b) Terms/rights attached to equity shares

The Company has only one class of equity shares having par value of Rs.2 per share. Each holder of equity shares is entitled to one vote per share. The Company declares and pays dividends in Indian rupees. The dividend proposed by the Board of Directors is subject to the approval of the shareholders in the ensuing Annual General Meeting.

During the year ended 31 March 2014, the amount of per share dividend recognized as distributions to equity shareholders was Rs.0.40 (Previous Year: s.0.40).

In the event of liquidation of the Company, the holders of equity shares will be entitled to receive remaining assets of the Company, after distribution of all preferential amounts. The distribution will be in proportion to the number of equity shares held by the shareholders.

(c) Shares held by holding/ ultimate holding company and/ or their subsidiaries/ associates

Out of the equity shares issued by the Company shares held by its holding company and subsidiary of holding company are as below:

As per records of the Company, including its register of shareholders/members and other declaration received from the shareholders regarding beneficial interest, the above shareholding represents both legal and beneficial ownerships of shares.

(f) During the year, the Board of Directors at their meeting held on 14th May, 2013, approved buy-back of fully paid-up equity shares of the Company having a face value of Rs.2/- , from the existing shareholders/beneficial owners, other than the promoters/persons who are in control of the Company, from the open market through stock exchanges, at a price not exceeding Rs.110/- per equity share payable in cash, for an aggregate amount not exceeding Rs.2500 Lacs. The Buy back Scheme envisaged the Buy Back of Shares of minimum of 5,68,182 equity shares and a maximum of 22,72,727 equity shares. Pursuant to above, during the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company has bought and extinguished 22,72,727 equity shares of Rs.2/- each. The shares extinguished have been bought for an aggregate consideration of Rs.1,880.84 lacs. The excess of aggregate consideration paid for Buy-Back over the face value of shares so bought back and extinguished, amounting to Rs.1,835.39 lacs, is adjusted against the Share Premium Account. Further an amount of Rs.45.45 lacs (equivalent to nominal value of shares bought back) has been transferred to Capital Redemption Reserve from General Reserves.

*Securities Premium of Rs.Nil (previous year Rs.816, rounded off to Rs.0.01 lac) on equity shares issued pursuant to the Scheme of Arrangement and Restructuring has been adjusted against defcit in the value of assets over liabilities of the Job Portal business acquired under the said Scheme [Refer Note 34 (a)].

1. Term loan from HDFC Bank carries interest @ PLR minus 7.75% p.a. (Rate of Interest was linked to PLR for the frst 2 years from the date of frst drawdown. Thereafter, the interest is reset by the bank on an annual basis). The loan is repayable in 20 quarterly installments of Rs.375 lacs each along with interest, from the date of disbursement, viz., 08th June, 2009 and 19th June, 2009. The loan is secured by frst pari passu charge on all movable fixed assets of the Company along with Term Lenders (except assets financed out of the ECB from Standard Chartered Bank) and frst pari passu charge by way of equitable mortgage of immovable properties belonging to the Company situated at Greater Noida (Plot No. 8, Udyog Vihar, Greater Noida, Gautam Budh Nagar, 201306). The loan is further secured by equitable mortgage by deposit of title deeds of immovable properties situated at Noida (B-02, Sector 63, Noida 201307) and Mohali (C-164/165 Phase VIII-B Industrial Focal Point, Mohali 160059). The loan is also secured by second charge on the current assets of the Company.

2. External Commercial Borrowing from Standard Chartered Bank carries interest @ 6 months USD Libor 1.20% spread p.a. payable semi annually. The loan is repayable in 3 annual equal installments of USD 5,155,670 each , after 4 years from the date of frst drawdown, viz., 8 April, 2008 i.e. at the end of 4th,5th and 6th year. The total tenor of the loan shall not exceed 6 years from date of frst drawdown. The loan is secured by way of frst and Specific charge over certain movable plant and machinery of the HT Media Limited, i.e:

- One Man Roland Off-Set Rotation Printing Press type - Regioman - 2009,

- Muller Martini Martini Mail Room System - 2009 stored or to be stored at HT Media Limited godowns or premises or wherever else the same may be.

3. External Commercial Borrowing from Citi Bank carries interest @ USD 3 months LIBOR 1.50% spread p.a. The loan is repayable in 8 semi annual equal installments of USD 15,62,500 starting from December 31, 2013. The loan is secured by Parri Passu charge on company''s present & future movable fixed assets at (A) Noida - B-2, sector 63, District Gautam Budh Nagar, Noida -201307 (B) plot No.-8, Udyog Vihar Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh-201306, with HDFC Bank for their term loan and First and exclusive charge in favour of Citibank N.A. on assets acquired/to be acquired out of our ECB and LC facilities of USD 32.5 Mn, to secure Citibank''s ECB, LC and hedging limits. The loan is further secured by pledge of Company''s investment in Fixed Maturity Plans.

1. Buyer''s credit from BNP Paribas is secured by way of frst pari passu charge over all moveable assets such as raw materials, stock- in-process, fnished goods lying at various factories, godowns, warehouses, etc, wherever situated or in transit, both present or future and book debts of the Company and all book debts, outstanding monies, receivables, claims, bills which are due and which may at any time during the continuance of this security become due by any person, firm, company or body corporate.

2. Buyer''s credit from Royal Bank of Scotland is secured by way of frst pari passu charge on all current assets (both present and future) in favour of bank.

3. Buyer''s credit from HDFC Bank is secured by Pari-passu charge on all present and future current assets of the Company.

4. Buyer''s credit from Kotak Mahindra Bank is secured by frst Pari-passu charge on all present and future current assets of the Company including book debts, receivables, outstanding monies etc, stock of raw material, semi fnished goods, related movables, together with benefit of all rights thereto.

Plant & Machinery having a gross value of Rs.86.61 lacs (Previous year Rs.86.61 lacs) towards Company''s proportionate share for right to use in the Common Infrastructure for channel transmission (for its four stations) built on land owned by Prasar Bharti and used by all the broadcasters at respective stations as per the terms of bid document on FM Radio Broadcasting (Phase II).

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Mar 31, 2013

A) Use of estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Indian GAAP requires the management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and of the result of operations during the reporting period end. Although these estimates are based upon management''s best knowledge of current events and actions, uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in the outcomes requiring a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets or liabilities in future periods.

b) Tangible assets

Value for individual Fixed Assets acquired from ''The Hindustan Times Limited'' (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent experts.

Other Fixed Assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Subsequent expenditure related to an item of fixed asset is added to its book value only if it increases the future benefits from the existing asset beyond its previously assessed standard of performance. All other expenses on existing fixed assets, including day-to-day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

The Company adjusts exchange differences arising on translation/settlement of long-term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to acquisition of a depreciable asset to the cost of the asset and depreciates the same over the remaining life of the asset. In accordance with MCA circular dated August 9, 2012, exchange differences adjusted to the cost of fixed assets are total differences, arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to the acquisition of a depreciable asset, for the period. In other words, the Company does not differentiate between exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost and other exchange differences.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of fixed assets are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interior furnishings, etc on the leased premises at various locations.

c) Depreciation

Depreciation on fixed assets (other than those acquired from the holding company in earlier years) are provided on a Straight Line Method at the rates computed based on estimated useful life of the assets which are greater than or equal to the corresponding rates prescribed in Schedule XIV to the companies Act, 1956.

In respect of fixed assets acquired in an earlier year from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than envisaged as per the rates provided in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, depreciation is provided based on such estimated lower residual life.

The Company has used the following rates to provide depreciation on its fixed assets.

Assets costing below Rs.5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

Leasehold Land is amortized on a straight line basis over the period of lease.

Leasehold Improvements are amortized on a straight line basis over the useful life not exceeding 10 years or over the life of lease, whichever is lower.

d) Intangibles

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Internally generated intangible assets, excluding capitalized development costs, are not capitalized and expenditure is reflected in the statement of profit and loss in the year in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert.

Intangible assets are amortized on a straight line basis over the estimated useful economic life. The company uses a rebuttable presumption that the useful life of an intangible asset will not exceed ten years from the date when the asset is available for use. If the persuasive evidence exists to the affect that useful life of an intangible asset exceeds ten years, the company amortizes the intangible asset over the best estimate of its useful life. Such intangible assets and intangible assets not yet available for use are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. All other intangible assets are assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired.

The amortization period and the amortization method of the intangible assets are reviewed at each financial year end for its expected useful life and the expected pattern of economic benefits. If there is a significant change in expected useful life or the expected pattern of economic benefits, the amortization period/method is adjusted to reflect the change. Such changes are accounted for in accordance with AS 5 Net Profit or Loss for the Period, Prior Period Items and changes in Accounting Policies.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

License fees are charged to statement of profit and loss at the rate of 4% of gross revenue for the reporting period or 10% of Reserve One Time Entry Fee (ROTEF) for the concerned city, whichever is higher. Gross Revenue for this purpose is revenue derived on the basis of billing rates inclusive of any taxes and without deduction of any discount given to the advertiser and any commission paid to advertising agencies. ROTEF means 25% of highest valid bid in the city.

A summary of amortization policies applied to the company''s intangible assets is as below:

Software licenses acquired from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than that envisaged above, are amortised over such estimated lower residual lives.

Software licenses costing below Rs.5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

e) Expenditure on new projects and substantial expansion

Expenditure directly relating to construction activity is capitalized. Indirect expenditure incurred during construction year is capitalized as part of the indirect construction cost to the extent the expenditure is related to construction or is incidental thereto and represents the marginal increase in such expenditure as a result of the capital expansion. Other indirect expenditure (including borrowing costs) incurred during the construction year, which is not related to the construction activity nor is incidental thereto, are charged to the statement of profit and loss. Related income earned during construction period is adjusted against the total of the indirect expenditure.

f) Leases

Where the Company is lessee

Finance leases, which effectively transfer to the Company substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are capitalized at the inception of the lease term at the lower of the fair value of the leased property and present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognized as finance costs in the statement of profit and loss. Lease management fees, legal charges and other initial direct costs of lease are capitalized.

A leased asset is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the asset or the useful life envisaged in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, whichever is lower. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain the ownership by the end of the lease term, the capitalized leased assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset, the lease term or the useful life envisaged in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956.

Lease where the lessor effectively retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the leased item, are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments/receipts are recognized as an expense/income in the statement of profit and loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

g) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest and amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of the respective asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period they occur.

h) Impairment of tangible and intangible assets

The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset''s recoverable amount. An asset''s recoverable amount is higher of an asset''s or it''s cash-generating unit''s (CGU) net selling price and its value in use. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining net selling price, recent market transactions are taken into account, if available. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations which are prepared separately for each of the Company''s cash-generating units to which the individual assets are allocated. These budgets and forecast calculations are generally covering a period of five years. For longer periods, a long term growth rate is calculated and applied to project future cash flows after the fifth year.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognized in the statement of profit and loss.

After impairment, depreciation is provided on the revised carrying amount of the asset over its remaining useful life.

i) Investments

Investments, which are readily realizable and intended to be held for not more than one year from the date on which such investments are made, are classified as current investments. All other investments are classified as long-term investments.

On initial recognition, all investments are measured at cost. The cost comprises purchase price and directly attributable acquisition charges such as brokerage, fees and duties. If an investment is acquired, or partly acquired, by the issue of shares or other securities, the acquisition cost is the fair value of the securities issued.

Current investments are carried in the financial statements at lower of cost and fair value determined on an individual investment basis. Long- term investments are carried at cost. However, provision for diminution in value is made to recognize a decline other than temporary in the value of the investments.

On disposal of an investment, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of profit and loss.

Investment Property

An investment in land or buildings, which is not intended to be occupied substantially for use by, or in the operations of, the company, is classified as investment property. Investment properties are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The cost comprises purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and directly attributable cost of bringing the investment property to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Depreciation on building component of investment property is calculated on a straight-line basis using the rate arrived at based on useful life estimated by the management, or that prescribed under the Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, whichever is higher. The Company has used depreciation rate of 3.34%.

On disposal of an investment property, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of profit and loss.

j) Inventories

Inventories are valued as follows:

Raw materials, stores and spares

Lower of cost and net realizable value. However, material and other items held for use in the production of inventories are not written down below cost if the finished products in which they will be incorporated are expected to be sold at or above cost. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.

Work-in-progress and finished goods

Lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost includes direct materials and a proportion of manufacturing overheads based on normal operating capacity. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.

Scrap and Waste papers

At net realizable value.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

k) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured. Specifically, the following basis is adopted:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published /displayed and is disclosed net of discounts.

Sale of News & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap

Revenue is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have passed on to the buyer and is disclosed net of sales return and discounts.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognized on the completion of job work as per terms of the agreement.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of client''s commercials.

Revenue from online advertising

Revenue from ''www.shine.com'' and ''www.hindustantimes.com'' by display of internet advertisements are typically contracted for a period of one to twelve months. Revenue in this respect is recognized over the period of the contract, in accordance with the established principles of accrual accounting. Unearned revenues are reported on the balance sheet as deferred revenue.

Revenue from subscription of packages of placement of job postings on ''www.shine.com'' is recognized at the time the job postings are displayed based upon customer usage patterns, or upon expiry of the subscription package whichever is earlier

Revenue from job fairs

Revenue is recognized upon completion of the job fairs.

Revenue from resume services

Revenue is recognized once the resume has been completed.

Interest/Income from Investments

Revenue is recognized on a time proportion basis taking into account the amount outstanding and the rate applicable. Income on investment made in the units of mutual funds is recognized based on the yield earned and to the extent of its reasonable certainty.

Dividend

Dividend Income is recognized when the Company''s right to receive the dividend is established by the reporting date.

Commission income

Commission income from sourcing of advertisement orders on behalf of other entities'' publications is recognised on printing of the advertisement in those publications.

l) Foreign currency transactions

Foreign currency transactions and balances

(i) Initial recognition

Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the reporting currency, by applying to the foreign currency amount the exchange rate between the reporting currency and the foreign currency at the date of the transaction.

(ii) Conversion

Foreign currency monetary items are retranslated using the exchange rate prevailing at the reporting date. Non-monetary items, which are measured in terms of historical cost denominated in a foreign currency, are reported using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items, which are measured at fair value or other similar valuation denominated in a foreign currency, are translated using the exchange rate at the date when such value was determined.

(iii) Exchange differences

The company accounts for exchange differences arising on translation/ settlement of foreign currency monetary items as below:

1. Exchange differences arising on long- term foreign currency monetary items related to acquisition of a fixed asset are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful life of the asset.

2. Exchange differences arising on other long-term foreign currency monetary items are accumulated in the "Foreign currency Monetary Item Translation Difference Account" and amortized over the remaining life of the concerned monetary item.

3. All other exchange differences are recognized as income or as expenses in the period in which they arise.

For the purpose of 1 and 2 above, the company treats a foreign monetary item as "long-term foreign currency monetary item", if it has a term of 12 months or more at the date of its origination. In accordance with MCA circular dated 09 August 2012, exchange differences for this purpose, are total differences arising on long-term foreign currency monetary items for the period. In other words, the company does not differentiate between exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost and other exchange difference.

(iv) Forward exchange contracts entered into to hedge foreign currency risk of an existing asset/ liability.

The premium or discount arising at the inception of forward exchange contract is amortized and recognized as an expense/ income over the life of the contract. Exchange differences on such contracts, except the contracts which are long-term foreign currency monetary items, are recognized in the statement of profit and loss in the period in which the exchange rates change. Any profit or loss arising on cancellation or renewal of such forward exchange contract is also recognized as income or as expense for the period. Any gain/ loss arising on forward contracts which are long-term foreign currency monetary items is recognized in accordance with paragraph (iii)(1) and (iii)(2).

(v) Translation of integral foreign operation

The financial statements of an integral foreign operation are translated as if the transactions of the foreign operation have been those of the company itself.

m) Retirement and other employee benefits

i. Retirement benefits in the form of Provident Fund and Pension Schemes are defined contribution schemes and the contributions are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the year when the contributions to the respective funds are due. There are no other obligations other than the contribution payable to the respective funds.

ii. Gratuity is a defined benefit plan. The cost of providing benefits under the plan is determined on the basis of actuarial valuation at each year-end using the projected unit credit method and is contributed to Gratuity Fund created by the Company. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized in full in the period in which they occur in the statement of profit and loss.

iii. Accumulated leave, which is expected to be utilized within the next 12 months, is treated as short-term employee benefit. The Company measures the expected cost of such absences as the additional amount that it expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement that has accumulated at the reporting date.

The Company treats accumulated leave expected to be carried forward beyond twelve months, as long-term employee benefit for measurement purposes. Such long-term compensated absences are provided for based on the actuarial valuation using the projected unit credit method at the year-end. Actuarial gains/losses are immediately taken to the statement of profit and loss and are not deferred. The Company presents the entire leave as current liability in the balance sheet, since it does not have as unconditional right to defer its settlement for 12 months after the reporting date.

n) Provisions

A provision is recognized when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past event and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, in respect of which a reliable estimate can be made. Provisions are not discounted to their present value and are determined based on best estimate required to settle the obligation at the repoting date. These are reviewed at each reporting date and are adjusted to reflect the current best estimates.

Provision for expenditure relating to voluntary retirement is made when the employee accepts the offer of early retirement and such provision amount is charged to the statement of Profit and loss in the year of provision.

o) Income Taxes

Tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Current income-tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income-tax Act, 1961 enacted in India and tax laws prevailing in the respective tax jurisdictions, where the Company operates. ihe tax rates and the tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Current income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of profit and loss.

Deferred Income-taxes reflects the impact of timing differences between taxable income and accounting income originating during the current year and reversal of timing differences for the earlier years. Deferred tax is measured using the tax rates and the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Deferred income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of profit and loss.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable timing differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible timing differences only to the extent that there is reasonable certainty that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized. In situations where the Company has unabsorbed depreciation or carry forward tax losses, all deferred tax assets are recognized only if there is virtual certainty supported by convincing evidence that they can be realized against future taxable profits.

At each reporting date the Company re-assesses unrecognized deferred tax assets. It recognizes unrecognized deferred tax assets to the extent that it has become reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realised.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date. The Company writes-down the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which deferred tax asset can be realized. Any such write-down is reversed to the extent that it becomes reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

Minimum Alternate iax (MAi) paid in a year is charged to the statement of profit and loss as current tax. The Company recognises MAT credit available as an asset only to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Company will pay normal income- tax during the specified future period. In the year in which the Company recognises MAi credit as an asset in accordance with the Guidance Note on Accounting for Credit Available in respect of Minimum Alternative Tax under the Income-tax Act, 1961, the said asset is created by way of credit to the statement of profit and loss and shown as ''MAT Credit Entitlement''. The Company reviews the ''MAT Credit Entitlement'' asset at each reporting date and writes down the asset to the extent the Company does not have convincing evidence that it will pay normal tax during the specified period.

p) Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per Share are calculated by dividing the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to Equity Shareholders by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period. The weighted average numbers of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for events of bonus issue, bonus element in a rights issue to existing shareholders, share split and reverse share split (consolidation of shares) that have changed the number of equity shares outstanding, without a corresponding change in resources.

For the purpose of calculating diluted earnings per share, the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.

q) Employee Stock Compensation Cost

Measurement and disclosure of the employee share-based payment plans is done in accordance with sEBI (Employee stock Option scheme and Employee stock purchase scheme) Guidelines, 1999 and the Guidance Note on Accounting for Employee share-based payments, issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. ihe Company measures compensation cost relating to employee stock options using the intrinsic value method. The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Company''s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The expense or credit recognized in the statement of profit and loss for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognized as at the beginning and end of that period and is recognized in employee benefit scheme. Compensation cost is amortized over the vesting period of the option on a straight line basis.

r) Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents in the cash flow statement comprise cash at bank and in hand and short term investments with an original maturity of three months or less.

s) Segment Reporting Policies Identification of segments:

The company''s operating businesses are organized and managed separately according to the nature of products and services provided, with each segment representing a strategic business unit that offers different products and serves different markets. The analysis of geographical segments is based on the areas in which major operating divisions of the company operate.

Inter segment Transfers:

The company generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties at current market prices.

Allocation of Common Costs:

Common allocable costs are allocated to each segment on a rational basis based on nature of each such common cost.

Unallocated Items:

Unallocated items include general corporate income and expense items which are not allocated to any business segment.

Segment Policies:

The company prepares its segment information in conformity with the accounting policies adopted for preparing and presenting the financial statements of the company as a whole.

t) Derivatives instruments

The Company uses derivative financial instruments, such as, foreign currency forward contracts to hedge foreign currency risk arising from future transactions in respect of which firm commitments are made or which are highly probable forecast transactions. It also uses interest rate swaps to hedge interest rate risk arising from variable rate loans. As per the ICAI Announcement, derivative contracts, other than those covered under Accounting Standard-11, are accounted on the basis of hedging principles to the extent that the same does not conflict with the existing mandatory Accounting Standards, other Authoritative pronouncements and other regulatory requirements.

u) Contingent liabilities

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the company or a present obligation that is not recognized because it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. A contingent liability also arises in extremely rare cases where there is a liability that cannot be recognized because it cannot be measured reliably. The company does not recognize a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the financial statements.

v) Measurement of EBITDA

As permitted by the Guidance Note on the Revised Schedule VI to the companies Act, 1956, the company has elected to present earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as a separate line item on the face of the statement of profit and loss. The company measures EBITDA on the basis of profit/ (loss) from continuing operations. In its measurement, the company does not include depreciation and amortization expense, finance costs and tax expense.

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Mar 31, 2012

A) Change in accounting policy

Presentation and disclosure of financial statements During the year ended 31 March 2012, the revised Schedule VI notified under the Companies Act 1956, has become applicable to the Company, for preparation and presentation of its financial statements. Except accounting for dividend on investments in subsidiary companies the adoption of revised Schedule VI does not impact recognition and measurement principles followed for preparation of financial statements. However, it has significant impact on presentation and disclosures made in the financial statements. The Company has also reclassified the Previous year figures in accordance with the requirements applicable in the current year.

b) Use of estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Indian GAAP requires the management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and of the result of operations during the reporting period end. Although these estimates are based upon management's best knowledge of current events and actions, uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in the outcomes requiring a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets or liabilities in future periods.

c) Tangible assets

Value for individual Fixed Assets acquired from 'The Hindustan Times Limited' (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent experts.

Other Fixed Assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Cost comprises the purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and any directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Subsequent expenditure related to an item of fixed asset is added to its book value only if it increases the future benefits from the existing asset beyond its previously assessed standard of performance. All other expenses on existing fixed assets, including day-to- day repair and maintenance expenditure and cost of replacing parts, are charged to the statement of profit and loss for the period during which such expenses are incurred.

From accounting periods commencing on or after 7 December 2006, the Company adjusts exchange differences arising on translation/settlement of long- term foreign currency monetary items pertaining to the acquisition of a depreciable asset to the cost of the asset and depreciates the same over the remaining life of the asset.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of fixed assets are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interior furnishings, etc on the leased premises at various locations.

d) Depreciation

Depreciation on fixed assets (other than those acquired from the holding company in earlier years) are provided on a Straight Line Method at the rates computed based on estimated useful life of the assets which are greater than or equal to the corresponding rates prescribed in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956.

In respect of fixed assets acquired in an earlier year from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than envisaged as per the rates provided in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, depreciation is provided based on such estimated lower residual life.

In respect of fixed assets (Plant & Machinery- printing press) acquired during the year 2004-05 from the holding company, depreciation is provided on straight line method over estimated useful life of 5 years as technically assessed by an independent expert.

Assets costing below Rs.5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

Leasehold Land is amortized on a straight line basis over the period of lease.

Leasehold Improvements are amortized on a straight line basis over the useful life not exceeding 10 years or over the life of lease, whichever is lower.

e) Intangibles

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Internally generated intangible assets, excluding capitalized development costs, are not capitalized and expenditure is reflected in the statement of profit and loss in the year in which the expenditure is incurred.

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert.

Intangible assets are amortized on a straight line basis over the estimated useful economic life. The Company uses a rebuttable presumption that the useful life of an intangible asset will not exceed ten years from the date when the asset is available for use. If the persuasive evidence exists to the affect that useful life of an intangible asset exceeds ten years, the Company amortizes the intangible asset over the best estimate of its useful life. Such intangible assets and intangible assets not yet available for use are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash-generating unit level. All other intangible assets are assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired.

The amortization period and the amortization method of the intangible assets are reviewed at each financial year end for its expected useful life and the expected pattern of economic benefits. If there is a significant change in expected useful life or the expected pattern of economic benefits, the amortization period/method is adjusted to reflect the change. Such changes are accounted for in accordance with AS 5 Net Profit or Loss for the Period, Prior Period Items and Changes in Accounting Policies.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the statement of profit and loss when the asset is derecognized.

License fees are charged to statement of Profit and Loss at the rate of 4% of gross revenue for the reporting period or 10% of Reserve One Time Entry fee (ROTEF) for the concerned city, whichever is higher. Gross Revenue for this purpose is revenue derived on the basis of billing rates inclusive of any taxes and without deduction of any discount given to the advertiser and any commission paid to advertising agencies ROTEF means 25% of highest valid bid in the city.

Software licenses acquired from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than that envisaged above, are amortised over such estimated lower residual lives.

Software licenses costing below Rs.5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

f) Expenditure on new projects and substantial expansion

Expenditure directly relating to construction activity is capitalized. Indirect expenditure incurred during construction year is capitalized as part of the indirect construction cost to the extent the expenditure is related to construction or is incidental thereto and represents the marginal increase in such expenditure as a result of the capital expansion. Other indirect expenditure (including borrowing costs) incurred during the construction year, which is not related to the construction activity nor is incidental thereto, are charged to the statement of Profit & Loss. Related income earned during construction period is adjusted against the total of the indirect expenditure.

g) Leases

Where the Company is lessee

Finance leases, which effectively transfer to the Company substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are capitalized at the inception of the lease term at the lower of the fair value of the leased property and present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognized as finance costs in the statement of Profit and Loss. Lease management fees, legal charges and other initial direct costs of lease are capitalised.

A leased asset is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the asset or the useful life envisaged in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, whichever is lower. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain the ownership by the end of the lease term, the capitalized leased assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset, the lease term or the useful life envisaged in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956.

Lease where the lessor effectively retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the leased item, are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments/receipts are recognized as an expense/ income in the statement of Profit and Loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

h) Borrowing costs

Borrowing cost includes interest, amortization of ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings and exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to the interest cost.

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of the respective asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period they occur.

i) Impairment of tangible and intangible assets

The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the assets recoverable amount. An assets recoverable amount is higher of an assets or its cash-generating units (CGU) net selling price and its value in use. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining net selling price, recent market transactions are taken into account, if available. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used.

The Company bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations which are prepared separately for each of the Company's cash- generating units to which the individual assets are allocated. These budgets and forecast calculations are generally covering a period of five years. For longer periods, a long term growth rate is calculated and applied to project future cash flows after the fifth year.

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognized in the statement of Profit and Loss.

After impairment, depreciation is provided on the revised carrying amount of the asset over its remaining useful life.

j) Investments

Investments, which are readily realizable and intended to be held for not more than one year from the date on which such investments are made, are classified as current investments. All other investments are classified as long-term investments.

On initial recognition, all investments are measured at cost. The cost comprises purchase price and directly attributable acquisition charges such as brokerage, fees and duties. If an investment is acquired, or partly acquired, by the issue of shares or other securities, the acquisition cost is the fair value of the securities issued.

Current investments are carried in the financial statements at lower of cost and fair value determined on an individual investment basis. Long-term investments are carried at cost. However, provision for diminution in value is made to recognize a decline other than temporary in the value of the investments.

On disposal of an investment, the difference between its carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of Profit and Loss.

Investment Property

An investment in land or buildings, which is not intended to be occupied substantially for use by, or in the operations of, the company, is classified as investment property. Investment properties are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation & accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The cost comprises purchase price, borrowing costs if capitalization criteria are met and directly attributable cost of bringing the investment property to its working condition for the intended use. Any trade discounts and rebates are deducted in arriving at the purchase price.

Depreciation on building component of investment property is calculated on a straight-line basis using the rate arrived at based on useful life estimated by the management, or that prescribed under the Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, whichever is higher. The Company has used depreciation rate of 3.34%.

On disposal of an investment property, the difference between it's carrying amount and net disposal proceeds is charged or credited to the statement of Profit and Loss.

k) Inventories

Inventories are valued as follows:

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

l) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured. Specifically, the following basis is adopted:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published/displayed and is disclosed net of discounts.

Sale of News & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap Revenue is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have passed on to the buyer and is disclosed net of sales return and discounts.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognized on the completion of job work as per terms of the agreement.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of client's commercials.

Interest/Income from Investments Revenue is recognized on a time proportion basis taking into account the amount outstanding and the rate applicable. Income on investment made in the units of mutual funds is recognized based on the yield earned and to the extent of its reasonable certainty.

Dividend

Dividend Income is recognized when the Company's right to receive the dividend is established by the reporting date.

Commission income

Commission income from sourcing of advertisement orders on behalf of other entities' publications is recognised on printing of the advertisement in those publications.

m) Foreign currency transactions

Initial Recognition

Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the reporting currency by applying to the foreign currency amount, the exchange rate between the reporting currency and the foreign currency prevailing at the date of the transaction.

Conversion

Foreign currency monetary items are reported using the exchange rate prevailing at the reporting date. Non-monetary items, which are carried in terms of historical cost denominated in a foreign currency, are reported using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items which are carried at fair value or other similar valuation denominated in a foreign currency are reported using the exchange rates that existed when the values were determined.

Exchange differences

i. Exchange differences, in respect of accounting years commencing on or after 7th December, 2006, arising on reporting of long-term foreign currency monetary items at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the year, or reported in previous financial statements, in so far as they relate to the acquisition of a depreciable capital asset, are added to or deducted from the cost of the asset and are depreciated over the balance life of the asset. For this purpose, the Company treats a foreign monetary item as "long-term foreign currency monetary items", if it has a term of 12 months or more at the date of origination. Exchange differences in other long term foreign currency monetary items, are accumulated in a "Foreign Currency Monetary Item Translation Difference Account" in the Company's financial statements and amortized over the remaining life of such monetary item.

ii. Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items not covered above, or on reporting such monetary items of Company at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the year, or reported in previous financial statements, are recognized as income or as expenses in the year in which they arise. Any gain/ loss arising on forward contracts which are long- term foreign currency monetary items is recognized in accordance with para i) above

iii. Forward Exchange Contracts not intended for trading or speculation purposes

The premium or discount arising at the inception of forward exchange contracts is amortized as expense or income over the life of the contract. Exchange differences on such contracts are recognized in the statement of Profit and Loss in the year in which the exchange rates change. Any profit or loss arising on cancellation or renewal of forward exchange contract is recognized as income or as expense for the year.

n) Retirement and other employee benefits

i. Retirement benefits in the form of Provident Fund and Pension Schemes are defined contribution schemes and the contributions are charged to the statement of Profit and Loss for the year when the contributions to the respective funds are due. There are no other obligations other than the contribution payable to the respective funds.

ii. Gratuity is a defined benefit plan. The cost of providing benefits under the plan is determined on the basis of actuarial valuation at each year- end using the projected unit credit method and is contributed to Gratuity Fund created by the Company. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized in full in the period in which they occur in the statement of Profit and Loss.

iii. Accumulated leave, which is expected to be utilized within the next 12 months, is treated as short-term employee benefit. The Company measures the expected cost of such absences as the additional amount that it expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement that has accumulated at the reporting date.

The Company treats accumulated leave expected to be carried forward beyond twelve months, as long- term employee benefit for measurement purposes. Such long-term compensated absences are provided for based on the actuarial valuation using the projected unit credit method at the year-end. Actuarial gains/ losses are immediately taken to the statement of Profit and Loss and are not deferred. The Company presents the entire leave as current liability in the balance sheet, since it does not have as unconditional right to defer its settlement for 12 months after the reporting date.

o) Provisions

A provision is recognized when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past event and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, in respect of which a reliable estimate can be made. Provisions are not discounted to their present value and are determined based on best estimate required to settle the obligation at the repoting date. These are reviewed at each reporting date and are adjusted to reflect the current best estimates.

Provision for expenditure relating to voluntary retirement is made when the employee accepts the offer of early retirement and such provision amount is charged to the statement of Profit and Loss in the year of provision.

p) Income Taxes

Tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Current income-tax is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income-tax Act, 1961 enacted in India and tax laws prevailing in the respective tax jurisdictions, where the company operates. The tax rates and the tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Current income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of Profit and Loss.

Deferred income-taxes reflects the impact of timing differences between taxable income and accounting income originating during the current year and reversal of timing differences for the earlier years. Deferred tax is measured using the tax rates and the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Deferred income-tax relating to items recognized directly in equity is recognized in equity and not in the statement of Profit and Loss.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable timing differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible timing differences only to the extent that there is reasonable certainty that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized. In situations where the Company has unabsorbed depreciation or carry forward tax losses, all deferred tax assets are recognized only if there is virtual certainty supported by convincing evidence that they can be realized against future taxable profits.

At each reporting date the Company re-assesses unrecognized deferred tax assets. It recognizes unrecognized deferred tax assets to the extent that it has become reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realised.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date. The Company writes-down the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which deferred tax asset can be realized. Any such write-down is reversed to the extent that it becomes reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to the to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) paid in a year is charged to the statement of profit and loss as current tax. The Company recognises MAT credit available as an asset only to the extent there is convincing evidence that the Company will pay normal income-tax during the specified future period. In the year in which the Company recognises MAT credit as an asset in accordance with the Guidance Note on Accounting for Credit Available in respect of Minimum Alternative Tax under the Income- tax Act, 1961, the said asset is created by way of credit to the statement of Profit and Loss and shown as 'MAT Credit Entitlement'. The Company reviews the 'MAT Credit Entitlement' asset at each reporting date and writes down the asset to the extent the Company does not have convincing evidence that it will pay normal tax during the specified period.

q) Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the net Profit or Loss for the reporting period attributable to Equity Shareholders by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period. The weighted average numbers of equity shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for events of bonus issue, bonus element in a rights issue to existing shareholders, share split and reverse share split (consolidation of shares) that have changed the number of equity shares outstanding, without a corresponding change in resources.

For the purpose of calculating diluted earnings per share, the net profit or loss for the reporting period attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the reporting period are adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.

r) Employee Stock Compensation Cost

Measurement and disclosure of the employee share- based payment plans is done in accordance with SEBI (Employee Stock Option Scheme and Employee Stock Purchase Scheme) Guidelines, 1999 and the Guidance Note on Accounting for Employee Share- based Payments, issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The Company measures compensation cost relating to employee stock options using the intrinsic value method. The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and the Company's best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The expense or credit recognized in the statement of Profit and Loss for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognized as at the beginning and end of that period and is recognized in employee benefit scheme. Compensation cost is amortized over the vesting period of the option on a straight line basis.

s) Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents in the cash flow statement comprise cash at bank and in hand and short term investments with an original maturity of three months or less.

t) Segment Reporting Policies Identification of segments:

The Company's operating businesses are organized and managed separately according to the nature of products and services provided, with each segment representing a strategic business unit that offers different products and serves different markets. The analysis of geographical segments is based on the areas in which major operating divisions of the Company operate.

Inter segment Transfers:

The Company generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties at current market prices.

Allocation of Common Costs:

Common allocable costs are allocated to each segment on a rational basis based on nature of each such common cost.

Unallocated Items:

Unallocated items include general corporate income and expense items which are not allocated to any business segment.

Segment Policies:

The Company prepares its segment information in conformity with the accounting policies adopted for preparing and presenting the financial statements of the Company as a whole.

u) Contingent liabilities

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the Company or a present obligation that is not recognized because it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. A contingent liability also arises in extremely rare cases where there is a liability that cannot be recognized because it cannot be measured reliably. The Company does not recognize a contingent liability but discloses its existence in the financial statements.

v) Measurement of EBITDA

As permitted by the Guidance Note on the Revised Schedule VI to the Companies Act, 1956, the Company has elected to present earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as a separate line item on the face of the statement of profit and loss. The Company measures EBITDA on the basis of profit/(loss) from continuing operations. In its measurement, the Company does not include depreciation and amortization expense, finance costs and tax expense.

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Mar 31, 2011

(a) Fixed assets Value for individual Fixed Assets acquired from The Hindustan Times Limited (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent experts.

Other Fixed Assets arestated at cost less accumulateddepreciation and impairment losses, if any. Cost comprises thepurchasepriceandanydirectlyattributablecost of bringing theasset to its working condition for its intended use. Borrowing costs relating to acquisition of Fixed Assets which takes substantial period of time to get ready are also included to the extent they relate to theyeartill such assetsarereadyfortheir intended use.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interior furnishings.etcon the leased premises at various locations.

(b) Depreciation

Leasehold Land is amortised overthe primary period of lease. Leasehold Improvements are amortized over the useful life of upto 10 years or unexpired period of lease (whichever is lower) on a straight line basis.

In respect of fixed assets acquired in an earlier year from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than envisaged as per the rates provided in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, depreciation is provided based on such estimated lower residual life.

In respect of fixed assets (Plant & Machinery- printing press) acquired during the year 2004-05 from the holding company, depreciation is provided on straight line method over estimated useful lifeof 5 years as technically assessed by an independent expert. Assets costing below ?5,000 each are fully depreciated in theyear of acquisition. Depreciation on other assets (except those acquired from the holding company) are provided on Straight Line Method at the rates computed based on estimated useful life of the assets, which are greater than or equal to the corresponding rates prescribed in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act,1956.

(c) Intangibles Software Licenses

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert.

Software licenses acquired from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than that envisaged above, are amortised over such estimated lower residual lives.

Cost relating to other software licenses which are purchased is capitalized and amortized on a straight line basis over their estimated useful lives of five years or six years, as the case maybe.

Software licenses costing below ?5,000 each are fully depreciated in theyear of acquisition.

Website Development

Cost relating to website development is capitalized and amortized over their estimated useful lives of sixyears on a straight line basis.

License Fees

OneTime Entry Fees paid by the Company for acquiring licenses having useful life of 10 years for its Radio Business including consultancy cost for Bidding Phase II is capitalized and is amortized on a straight line basis.

MusicContents

Cost relating to music contents, which are purchased, is capitalized and amortised on a straight line basis overtheirestimated useful lives of fouryears.

(d) Expenditure on new projects and substantial expansion

Expenditure directly relating to construction activity is capitalized. Indirect expenditure incurred during construction year is capitalized as part of the indirect construction cost to the extent to which the expenditure is directly related to construction or is incidental thereto. Other indirect expenditure (including borrowing costs) incurred during the construction year, which is not related to the construction activity nor is incidental thereto is charged to the Profit & Loss Account. Incomeearned during construction year is adjusted against the total of theindirect expenditure.

All direct capital expenditure incurred on expansion is capitalized. As regards indirect expenditure on expansion, only that portion is capitalized which represents the marginal increase in such expenditure involved as a result of capital expansion. Both direct and indirect expenditure are capitalized only if they increase the value of the asset beyond its originally assessed standard of performance.

(e) Leases (where the Company is the lessee)

Finance leases, which effectively transfer to the Company substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are capitalized at the lower of the fair value and present value of the minimum lease payments at the inception of the lease term and disclosed as leased assets. Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability based on the implicit rate of return. Finance charges are charged directly against income. Lease management fees, legal charges and other initial direct costs arecapitalised.

If there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain the ownership by the end of the lease term, capitalized leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term.

Lease where the lessor effectively retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership over the leased term, are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments/receipts are recognized as an expense/income in the Profit and Loss Account on a straight-line basis overthe lease term.

(f) Investments

Investments that are readily realizable and intended to be held for not more than a year are classified as current investments. All other investments are classified as long-term investments. Current investmentsarecarried at lower of cost and fairvaluedeterminedonan individual investment basis. Long-term investments are carried at cost, however, provision for diminution in value is made to recognise a decline other than a temporary in the value of the investments.

(g) Inventories

Inventories arevaluedas follows:

Rawmaterials.storesandspares Lower of cost and net realizable value. However, material and other items held for use in the production of inventories are not written down below cost if the finished products in which they will be incorporated are expected to be sold at or above cost. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.

Work-in-progress Lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost includes direct materials and a proportion of manufacturing overheads based on normal operating capacity. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.

Scrap and Waste papers At net realizable value.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and estimated costs necessary to make thesale.

(h) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured. Specifically, the following basis is adopted:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published /displayed and is disclosed net of discounts.

Sale of News & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap Revenue is recognized when thesignificant risks and rewards of ownership have passed on to the buyer and is disclosed net of sales return and discounts.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognized on the completion of job work as per terms of theagreement.

Airtime Revenue Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of clients commercials.

Interest

Revenue is recognized on a time proportion basis taking into account the amount outstanding and the rate applicable. Income on investment made in the units of fixed maturity plans of mutual funds is recognized based on the yield earned and to the extent of itsreasonablecertainty

Dividend

Revenue is recognized if the right to receive payment is established by the balancesheet date.

Commission Income

Commission Income from sourcing of advertisement orders on behalf of other entities publications is accruedon printing of theadvertisement in thepublications. (0 Foreign currency transactions

Initial Recognition

Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the reporting currency by applying to the foreign currency amount, the exchange rate between the reporting currency and the foreign currency prevailing atthedateof the transaction.

Conversion

Foreign currency monetary items are reported using the closing rate. Non-monetary items which are carried in terms of historical cost denominated in a foreign currency, are reported using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction and non-monetary items which are carried at fair value or other similar valuation denominated in a foreign currency are reported using the exchange rates that existedwhen the values weredetermined.

Exchange differences

Exchange differences, in respect of accounting years commencing on or after December 07, 2006, arising on reporting of long-term foreign currency monetary items at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the year, or reported in previous financial statements, in so far as they relate to the acquisition of a depreciable capital asset, are added to or deducted from the cost of the asset and are depreciated over the balance life of the asset, and in other cases, are accumulated in a "Foreign Currency Monetary Item Translation Difference Account" in the enterprises financial statements and amortized over the balance year of such long-term asset/liability but not beyond accounting year ending on or beforeMarch 31,2011.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items not covered above, or on reporting such monetary items of company at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the year, or reported in previous financial statements, are recognized as incomeoras expenses in theyearin which theyarise.

Forward Exchange Contracts not intended for trading or speculation purposes The premium or discount arising at the inception of forward exchange contracts is amortized as expense or incomeover the life of the contract. Exchange differences on such contracts are recognized in the statement of profit and loss in the year in which the exchange rates change. Any profit or loss arising on cancellation or renewal of forward exchange contract is recognized as income or as expenseforthe year.

(j) Retirement and other employee benefits

i. Retirement benefits in the form of Provident Fund and Pension Schemes are defined contribution schemes and thecontributions arecharged to the Profit and Loss Account of the year when the contributions to the respective funds are due. There are no other obligations otherthanthecontributionpayableto the respective funds.

ii. Gratuity is a defined benefit plan and is provided for on the basis of an actuarial valuation carried out as per projected unit credit (PUC) method by an independent actuary as at year end and is contributed to Gratuity Fund created by the Company.

iii. Provision for leave encashment arising on long term benefits is accrued and made on the basis of an actuarial valuation carried out as per projected unit credit (PUC) method by an independent actuary at the year end. Short term compensated absences are provided for based on estimates.

iv. Actuarial gains/losses are immediately taken to Profit and Loss Account and are not deferred.

(k) Impairment

(i) The carrying amounts of assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date if there is any indication of impairment based on internal/external factors. An impairment loss is recognized wherever the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the greater of the assets net selling price and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and risks specifictotheasset.

(ii) After impairment, depreciation is provided on the revised carrying amount of the asset over its remaining useful life.

(I) Provisions

A provision is recognized when theCompany has a present obligation as a result of past event and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, in respect of which a reliable estimate can be made. Provisions are not discounted to their present value and are determined based on best estimate required to settle the obligation at each Balance Sheet date. These are reviewed at each Balance Sheet date and are adjusted to reflect the current best estimates. Provision for expenditure relating to voluntary retirement is made when the employee accepts the offer of early retirement and such provision amount is charged to Profitand Loss Account in the year of provision.

(m) IncomeTaxes

Tax expense comprises fringe benefit, current and deferred taxes. Fringe benefit and current income tax are measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income-tax Act, 1961. Deferred IncomeTax reflects the impact of current year timing differences between taxable income and accounting income for the year and reversalof timing differencesofearlieryears.

Deferred tax is measured based on the tax rates and the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balancesheet date. Deferred taxassets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current taxassets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to the taxes on income levied by same governing taxation laws. Deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that there is reasonable certainty that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized. In situations where the Company has unabsorbed depreciation or carry forward tax losses, all deferred tax assets are recognized only if there is virtual certainty supported by convincing evidence that they can be realized againstfuture taxable profits.

At each balance sheet date the Company re-assesses unrecognized deferred tax assets. It recognizes unrecognized deferred tax assets to the extent that it has become reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be that sufficient future taxable income will be availableagainst which such deferred taxassets can be realised. The carrying amount of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date. The Company writes-down the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which deferred tax asset can be realized. Any such write-down is reversed to the extent that it becomes reasonably certain or virtually certain, asthecasemaybe.thatsufficientfuturetaxableincomewillbeavailable. MAT credit is recognized as an asset only when and to theextent there is convincing evidence that the Company will pay normal Income-tax during the specified period. In the year in which the Minimum Alternative Tax (MAT) credit becomes eligible to be recognized as an asset in accordance with the recommendations contained in Guidance Note issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, the said asset is created by way of a credit to the Profit and Loss account and shown as MAT Credit Entitlement. The Company reviews the same at each balance sheet date and writes down the carrying amount of MAT Credit Entitlement to the extent there is no longer convincing evidence to the effect that Company will pay normal Income-taxduringthespecified period.

(n) EarningsPerShare

Basic Earnings Per Share is calculated by dividing the net profit or loss for the year attributable to Equity Shareholders (after deducting preference dividend and attributable taxes) by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the year. The weighted average numbers of equity shares outstanding during the year are adjusted for events of bonus issue, bonus element in a rights issue to existing shareholders, share split and reversesharesplit (consolidation of shares).

For the purpose of calculating Diluted Earnings Per Share, the net profit or loss for the year attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the yearareadjustedforthe effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.

(o) Employee Stock Compensation Cost

Measurement and disclosure of the employee share-based payment plans is done in accordance with SEBI (Employee Stock Option Scheme and Employee Stock Purchase Scheme) Guidelines, 1999 and the Guidance Note on Accounting for Employee Share-based Payments, issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.The Company measures compensation cost relating to employee stock options using the intrinsic value method. Compensation expense is amortized over the vesting year of the option on a straight line basis.

(p) Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents in the Cash Flow Statement comprise cash at bank and in hand and short term investments with an original maturity of three months or less. Cash flows are reported using indirect method, whereby profit before tax is adjusted for the effects transactions of a non-cash nature and any deferrals or accruals of past or future cash receipts or payments. The cash flows from regular revenue generating, financing and investing activities of theCompanyaresegregated.

(q) Borrowing Costs

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of the respective asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that an entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds.

(r) Segment Reporting Policies Identification of segments:

TheCompanys operating businesses are organized and managed separately according to the nature of products and services provided, with each segment representing a strategic business unit that offers different products and serves different markets. The analysis of geographical segments is based on the areas in which major operating divisions of the Company operate.

Intersegment Transfers:

The Company generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties at current market prices.

Allocation of Common Costs:

Common allocable costs are allocated to each segment on a rational basis based on nature of each such common cost.

Unallocated Items:

Corporate income and expenses are considered as a part of unallocable income & expense, which are not identifiable to any business segment.

Segment Policies:

The Company prepares its segment information in conformity with the accounting policies adopted for preparingand presenting thefinancialstatements of theCompany asa whole.

(s) Broadcast License Fees

License fees are charged to Profit and Loss account at the rate of 4% of gross revenue for the year or 10% of Reserve One Time Entry Fee (ROTEF) for the concerned city, whichever is higher.Gross Revenue forthis purpose is revenuederived on the basis of billing rates inclusive of any taxes and without deduction of any discount given to the advertiser and any commission paid to advertising agencies. ROTEF means 25% of highest valid bid in thecity

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Mar 31, 2010

1. Nature of operations

The Company publishes ‘Hindustan Times’, an English daily, and ‘Mint’, a Business paper daily except on Sunday’. The Company is also engaged into the business of providing entertainment, radio broadcast and all other related activities through its Radio Stations operating under brand name ‘Fever 104’ in cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore.

Till November 2009, the Company was also engaged in publishing ‘Hindustan’, a Hindi Daily and two monthly magazines ‘Nandan and Kadambani’. With effect from December 1, 2009, the Company has sold the “Hindi Business Undertaking” comprising of ‘Hindustan’, the Hindi Daily, ‘Nandan and Kadambani’, Hindi magazines on a slump sale basis to Hindustan Media Ventures Limited, its subsidiary company.

The Company derives revenue primarily from the sale of the above mentioned publications, advertisements published therein, by undertaking printing jobs and airtime advertisements aired at the aforesaid radio stations. The Company also derives revenue from the internet business, by displaying advertisements on its websites ‘hindustantimes.com’ and ‘livemint.com’.

2. Basis of preparation

The financial statements are prepared to comply in all material aspects with Indian Accounting Standards as notified by the Companies (Accounting Standards) Rules, 2006 (as amended) and the relevant provisions of the Companies Act, 1956. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention on accrual basis except in case of assets for which provision for impairment is made and revaluation is carried out. The accounting policies have been consistently applied by the Company and are consistent with those used in the Previous year.

3. Use of estimate

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the results of operations during the reporting year end. Although these estimates are based upon management’s best knowledge of current events and actions, actual results could differ from these estimates.

4. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

(a) Fixed assets

Value for individual fixed assets acquired from The Hindustan Times Limited (the holding company) in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by independent experts.

Other fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, if any. Cost comprises the purchase price and any directly attributable cost of bringing the asset to its working condition for its intended use. Borrowing costs relating to acquisition of fixed assets which takes substantial period of time to get ready are also included to the extent they relate to the year till such assets are ready for their intended use.

Leasehold improvements represent expenses incurred towards civil works, interior furnishings, etc on the leased premises at various locations.

(b) Depreciation

Leasehold Land is amortized over the primary period of lease.

Leasehold Improvements are amortized over the useful life of upto 10 years or unexpired period of lease (whichever is lower) on a straight line basis.

In respect of fixed assets acquired in an earlier year from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than envisaged as per the rates provided in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956, depreciation is provided based on such estimated lower residual life.

In respect of fixed assets (Plant & Machinery- printing press) acquired during the year 2004-05 from the holding company, depreciation is provided on straight line method over estimated useful life of 5 years as technically assessed by an independent expert.

Assets costing below Rs.5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

Depreciation on other assets (except those acquired from the holding company) are provided on Straight Line Method at the rates computed based on estimated useful life of the assets, which are equal to the corresponding rates prescribed in Schedule XIV to the Companies Act, 1956.

(c) Intangibles

Software Licenses

Value for individual software license acquired from the holding company in an earlier year is allocated based on the valuation carried out by an independent expert.

Software licenses acquired from the holding company, which are estimated to have lower residual lives than that envisaged above, are amortized over such estimated lower residual lives.

Cost relating to other software licenses which are purchased is capitalized and amortized on a straight line basis over their estimated useful lives of five years or six years, as the case may be.

Software licenses costing below Rs.5,000 each are fully depreciated in the year of acquisition.

Website Development

Cost relating to website development is capitalized and amortized over their estimated useful lives of six years on a straight line basis.

License Fees

One Time Entry Fees paid by the Company for acquiring licenses having useful life of 10 years for its Radio Business including consultancy cost for Bidding Phase II is capitalized and is amortized on a straight line basis.

Music Contents

Cost relating to music contents, which are purchased, is capitalized and amortized on a straight line basis over their estimated useful life of four years.

(d) Expenditure on new projects and substantial expansion

Expenditure directly relating to construction activity is capitalized. Indirect expenditure incurred during construction year is capitalized as part of the indirect construction cost to the extent to which the expenditure is directly related to construction or is incidental thereto. Other indirect expenditure (including borrowing costs) incurred during the construction year, which is not related to the construction activity nor is incidental thereto is charged to the Profit & Loss Account. Income earned during construction year is adjusted against the total of the indirect expenditure. All direct capital expenditure incurred on expansion is capitalized. As regards indirect expenditure on expansion, only that portion is capitalized which represents the marginal increase in such expenditure involved as a result of capital expansion. Both direct and indirect expenditure are capitalized only if they increase the value of the asset beyond its originally assessed standard of performance.

(e) Leases (where the Company is the lessee)

Finance leases, which effectively transfer to the Company substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are capitalized at the lower of the fair value and present value of the minimum lease payments at the inception of the lease term and disclosed as leased assets. Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability based on the implicit rate of return. Finance charges are charged directly against income. Lease management fees, legal charges and other initial direct costs are capitalized. If there is no reasonable certainty that the Company will obtain the ownership by the end of the lease term, capitalized leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term.

Lease where the lessor effectively retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership over the leased term, are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments/receipt are recognized as an expense/income in the Profit and Loss Account on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

(f) Investments

Investments that are readily realizable and intended to be held for not more than a year are classified as current investments. All other investments are classified as long-term investments. Current investments are carried at lower of cost and fair value determined on an individual investment basis. Long-term investments are carried at cost, however, provision for diminution in value is made to recognise a decline other than a temporary in the value of the investments.

(g) Inventories

Inventories are valued as follows:

Raw materials, stores and spares Lower of cost and net realizable value.

However, material and other items held for use in the production of inventories are not written down below cost if the finished products in which they will be incorporated are expected to be sold at or above cost. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis.

Work-in-progress

Lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost includes direct materials and a proportion of manufacturing overheads based on normal operating capacity.

Scrap and Waste papers At net realizable value.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

(h) Revenue recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured. Specifically, the following basis is adopted:

Advertisements

Revenue is recognized as and when advertisement is published / displayed and is disclosed net of discounts.

Sale of News & Publications, Waste Paper and Scrap

Revenue is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have passed on to the buyer and is disclosed net of sales return and discounts.

Printing Job Work

Revenue from printing job work is recognized on the completion of job work as per terms of the agreement.

Airtime Revenue

Revenue from radio broadcasting is recognized on an accrual basis on the airing of client’s commercials.

Interest

Revenue is recognized on a time proportion basis taking into account the amount outstanding and the rate applicable. Income on investment made in the units of fixed maturity plans of mutual funds is recognized based on the yield earned and to the extent of reasonable certainty.

Dividend

Revenue is recognized if the right to receive payment is established by the balance sheet date.

Commission Income

Commission Income from sourcing of advertisement orders on behalf of other entities’ publications is accrued on printing of the advertisement in the publications.

(i) Foreign currency transactions

Initial Recognition

Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the reporting currency by applying to the foreign currency amount, the exchange rate between the reporting currency and the foreign currency prevailing at the date of the transaction.

Conversion

Foreign currency monetary items are reported using the closing rate. Non-monetary items which are carried in terms of historical cost denominated in a foreign currency, are reported using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction and non- monetary items which are carried at fair value or other similar valuation denominated in a foreign currency are reported using the exchange rates that existed when the values were determined.

Exchange differences

Exchange differences, in respect of accounting years commencing on or after December 7, 2006, arising on reporting of long-term foreign currency monetary items at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the year, or reported in previous financial statements, in so far as they relate to the acquisition of a depreciable capital asset, are added to or deducted from the cost of the asset and are depreciated over the balance life of the asset, and in other cases, are accumulated in a “Foreign Currency Monetary Item Translation Difference Account” in the enterprise’s financial statements and amortized over the balance year of such long-term asset/liability but not beyond accounting year ending on or before March 31, 2011.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items not covered above, or on reporting such monetary items of company at rates different from those at which they were initially recorded during the year, or reported in previous financial statements, are recognized as income or as expenses in the year in which they arise.

Forward Exchange Contracts not intended for trading or speculation purposes

The premium or discount arising at the inception of forward exchange contracts is amortized as expense or income over the life of the contract. Exchange differences on such contracts are recognized in the statement of profit and loss in the year in which the exchange rates change. Any profit or loss arising on cancellation or renewal of forward exchange contract is recognized as income or as expense for the year.

(j) Retirement and other employee benefits

i. Retirement benefits in the form of Provident Fund and Pension Schemes are defined contribution schemes and the contributions are charged to the Profit and Loss Account of the year when the contributions to the respective funds are due. There are no other obligations other than the contribution payable to the respective funds.

ii. Gratuity is a defined benefit plan and is provided for on the basis of an actuarial valuation carried out as per projected unit credit (PUC) method by an independent actuary as at year end and is contributed to Gratuity Fund created by the Company.

iii. Provision for leave encashment arising on long term benefits is accrued and made on the basis of an actuarial valuation carried out as per projected unit credit (PUC) method by an independent actuary at the year end. Short term compensated absences are provided for based on estimates.

iv. Actuarial gains/losses are immediately taken to Profit and Loss account and are not deferred.

(k) Impairment

The carrying amounts of assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date if there is any indication of impairment based on internal/external factors. An impairment loss is recognized wherever the carrying amounts of an asset exceed its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the greater of the assets net selling price and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value at the weighted average cost of capital.

(l) Provisions

A provision is recognized when the Company has a present obligation as a result of past event and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, in respect of which a reliable estimate can be made. Provisions are not discounted to their present value and are determined based on best estimate required to settle the obligation at each Balance Sheet date. These are reviewed at each Balance Sheet date and are adjusted to reflect the current best estimates. Provision for expenditure relating to voluntary retirement is made when the employee accepts the offer of early retirement and such provision amount is charged to Profit and Loss Account in the year of provision.

(m) Income Taxes

Ta x expense comprises fringe benefit, current and deferred taxes. Fringe benefit and current income tax are measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities in accordance with the Income Tax Act, 1961. Deferred Income Tax reflects the impact of current year timing differences between taxable income and accounting income for the year and reversal of timing differences of earlier years.

Deferred tax is measured based on the tax rates and the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date. Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to the taxes on income levied by same governing taxation laws. Deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that there is reasonable certainty that

sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realized. In situations where the Company has unabsorbed depreciation or carry forward tax losses, all deferred tax assets are recognized only if there is virtual certainty supported by convincing evidence that they can be realised against future taxable profits.

At each balance sheet date the Company re-assesses unrecognized deferred tax assets. It recognizes unrecognized deferred tax assets to the extent that it has become reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which such deferred tax assets can be realised.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each Balance Sheet date. The Company writes-down the carrying amount of a deferred tax asset to the extent that it is no longer reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available against which deferred tax asset can be realized. Any such write-down is reversed to the extent that it becomes reasonably certain or virtually certain, as the case may be, that sufficient future taxable income will be available.

MAT credit is recognized as an asset only when and to the extent there is convincing evidence that the company will pay normal income tax during the specified year. In the year in which the Minimum Alternative Tax (MAT) credit becomes eligible to be recognized as an asset in accordance with the recommendations contained in Guidance Note issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, the said asset is created by way of a credit to the profit and loss account and shown as MAT Credit Entitlement. The Company reviews the same at each Balance Sheet date and writes down the carrying amount of MAT Credit Entitlement to the extent there is no longer convincing evidence to the effect that Company will pay normal income tax during the specified year.

(n) Earnings Per Share

Basic Earnings Per Share is calculated by dividing the net profit or loss for the year attributable to Equity Shareholders (after deducting preference dividend and attributable taxes) by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the year. The weighted average numbers of equity shares outstanding during the year are adjusted for events of bonus issue, bonus element in a right issue to existing shareholders, share split and reverse share split (consolidation of shares).

For the purpose of calculating Diluted Earnings Per Share, the net profit or loss for the year attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year are adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.

(o) Employee Stock Compensation Cost

Measurement and disclosure of the employee share-based payment plans is done in accordance with SEBI (Employee Stock Option Scheme and Employee Stock Purchase Scheme) Guidelines, 1999 and the Guidance Note on Accounting for Employee Share-based Payments, issued by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The Company measures compensation cost relating to employee stock options using the intrinsic value method. Compensation expense is amortized over the vesting year of the option on a straight line basis.

(p) Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents in the Cash Flow Statement comprise cash at bank and in hand and short term investments with an original maturity of three months or less.

Cash flows are reported using indirect method, whereby profit before tax is adjusted for the effects of transactions of a non-cash nature and any deferrals or accruals of past or future cash receipts or payments. The cash flows from regular revenue generating, financing and investing activities of the Company are segregated.

(q) Borrowing Costs

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of the respective asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that an entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds.

(r) Segment Reporting Policies Identification of segments:

The Company’s operating businesses are organized and managed separately according to the nature of products and services provided, with each segment

representing a strategic business unit that offers different products and serves different markets. The analysis of geographical segments is based on the areas in which major operating divisions of the Company operate.

Inter segment Transfers:

The Company generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties at current market prices.

Allocation of Common Costs:

Common allocable costs are allocated to each segment on a rational basis based on nature of each such common cost.

Unallocated Items:

Corporate income and expenses are considered as a part of unallocable income & expense, which are not identifiable to any business segment.

Segment Policies:

The Company prepares its segment information in conformity with the accounting policies adopted for preparing and presenting the financial statements of the company as a whole.

(s) Broadcast License Fees

License fees are charged to profit and loss account at the rate of 4% of gross revenue for the year or 10% of Reserve One Time Entry Fee (ROTEF) for the concerned city, whichever is higher. Gross Revenue for this purpose is revenue derived on the basis of billing rates inclusive of any taxes and without deduction of any discount given to the advertiser and any commission paid to advertising agencies. ROTEF means 25% of highest valid bid in the city.