Preparation of consolidated statement as per AS-21 is

The correct answer is: B. mandatory for listed companies

AS-21 is an accounting standard that deals with the preparation of consolidated financial statements. It requires listed companies to prepare consolidated financial statements for all of their subsidiaries. This is because listed companies are required to provide investors with a clear and accurate view of their financial position and performance.

Private limited companies are not required to prepare consolidated financial statements, but they may do so voluntarily. Partnership firms are not required to prepare consolidated financial statements.

Here is a brief explanation of each option:

• Option A: Optional. This is not correct because AS-21 requires listed companies to prepare consolidated financial statements.
• Option B: Mandatory for listed companies. This is the correct answer because AS-21 requires listed companies to prepare consolidated financial statements.
• Option C: Mandatory for Pvt. Ltd. This is not correct because private limited companies are not required to prepare consolidated financial statements.
• Option D: Partnership firm. This is not correct because partnership firms are not required to prepare consolidated financial statements.