Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Policy

Farmson Biotech Private Limited maintains a safe, dignified, and inclusive workplace free from all forms of sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse, adopting a zero-tolerance approach toward any form of sexual misconduct, in compliance with the POSH Act, 2013 and international PSEAH best practices.

This policy applies to:

• All employees (permanent, temporary, trainees, interns)
• Directors and management personnel
• Contract workers, consultants, vendors, and suppliers
• Visitors and business associates
• Any person interacting with Farmson Biotech in a professional capacity

Coverage includes workplace premises, field locations (farms, production sites), business travel, events and exhibitions, and digital/virtual workspaces (emails, calls, social media).

3.1 Sexual Harassment

Includes any unwelcome act or behavior such as physical contact or advances; a demand or request for sexual favors; sexually coloured remarks; showing pornography; or any unwelcome verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct.

3.2 Sexual Exploitation

Abuse of power or position for sexual purposes, including offering benefits in exchange for sexual favors and exploiting vulnerable individuals (workers, farmers, labourers).

3.3 Sexual Abuse

Actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal conditions.

All individuals must:

• Maintain professional boundaries
• Avoid any behavior that may be interpreted as harassment
• Respect personal dignity, gender equality, and cultural sensitivity
• Not misuse authority for personal or sexual gain
• Report any observed misconduct

Strictly prohibited:

• ✕ Quid pro quo (favor in exchange for benefit)
• ✕ Hostile work environment creation
• ✕ Retaliation against complainants or witnesses

Farmson Biotech shall establish an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) as per the POSH Act.

Composition

• Presiding Officer (senior female employee)
• Minimum 2 internal members
• 1 external member (NGO / legal expert)

Responsibilities

• Receive and investigate complaints
• Ensure confidentiality
• Provide fair and unbiased resolution
• Recommend disciplinary actions

6.1 Filing a Complaint

• A complaint must be submitted within 3 months of the incident
• It can be written or emailed to the ICC
• Assistance will be provided if needed

6.2 Confidentiality

• The identity of the complainant, respondent, and witnesses will be strictly protected

• Preliminary review within 7 days
• Formal inquiry completed within 90 days
• Both parties will be given a fair opportunity to present evidence
• Findings documented and submitted to management

Based on severity, actions may include:

• Written warning
• Suspension
• Termination of employment
• Blacklisting vendors / partners
• Legal action under applicable laws

No retaliation will be tolerated against complainants, witnesses, or ICC members. Any retaliation will result in strict disciplinary action.

• Conduct mandatory POSH training annually
• Provide awareness programs for employees and field workers
• Display the policy at the workplace and on digital platforms

Farmson Biotech Private Limited shall:

• Provide a safe working environment
• Ensure ICC functionality
• Act promptly on complaints
• Maintain records and compliance reports
• Support victims during proceedings

• False or malicious complaints will attract disciplinary action
• However, the inability to prove a complaint does not imply falsity

This policy will be reviewed annually or as per regulatory changes.

All employees and associated persons are required to:

• Read and understand this policy
• Sign acknowledgment of compliance
• Adhere strictly to its provisions