List of Navratna Companies in India

India’s public sector undertakings (PSUs) play a pivotal role in infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, and strategic services. To empower these government-owned enterprises with greater financial and operational autonomy, the Government of India classifies them into three categories: Maharatna, Navratna, and Miniratna. Among these, Navratna companies represent the middle tier, recognised for their consistent performance, profitability, and strategic importance. In this article, we break down what Navratna PSUs are, how they are selected, and provide a complete list of such companies in India.

Navratna companies are Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) that have been granted financial and operational autonomy by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), Government of India. The status allows them to compete with private sector players in strategic sectors by streamlining investment approvals and decision-making powers.

Navratna PSUs enjoy greater autonomy and decision-making powers, helping them operate more efficiently. The status empowers these enterprises to make faster and more strategic decisions without relying heavily on government approvals.

• Investment Autonomy: Navratna companies can invest up to ₹1,000 Cr or 15% of their net worth in a single project without seeking prior government approval. This enables quicker capital deployment in growth opportunities.
  

• Joint Ventures and Global Expansion: They are permitted to establish joint ventures, subsidiaries, and strategic partnerships abroad, allowing them to compete globally and diversify operations.
  

• HR and Organisational Flexibility: Navratna PSUs have greater freedom in structuring human resource policies, salary components, and incentives to attract and retain skilled professionals.
  

• Strategic and Operational Independence: They can make faster decisions in areas such as procurement, technology upgrades, and collaborations, promoting agility and innovation.
  

• Enhanced Market Competitiveness: Increased autonomy helps these companies respond swiftly to market changes, improve efficiency, and expand into new business domains.

These benefits enable Navratna PSUs to function more competitively and strategically in the market.

1. Engineers India Limited (EIL) – Provides engineering consultancy, design, procurement, and project management services across oil & gas, infrastructure, water, fertilisers, and renewable energy sectors.
   

2. Container Corporation of India Limited (CONCOR) – Operates India’s container logistics network, including dry ports, ICDs, bonded warehousing, refrigerated containers, and air-cargo services.
   

3. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) – Develops defence and civilian electronic systems such as radars, communication equipment, naval systems, and cybersecurity solutions.
   

4. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) – Designs, manufactures, and maintains military and civilian aircraft, helicopters, avionics, and communication systems.
   

5. Neyveli Lignite Corporation Limited (NLC India) – Mines lignite and generates electricity from lignite, coal, and renewable sources, supplying power mainly in Southern India and Rajasthan.
   

6. Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) – Operates the Vizag Steel Plant, producing high-quality steel through India’s first shore-based integrated steel facility.
   

7. Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilisers Limited (RCF) – Produces a range of fertilisers and chemicals, including neem urea, biofertilisers, and brands like Suphala and Ujjwala.
   

8. Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) – Offers fixed-line, broadband, mobile, and other telecom services in Delhi and Mumbai.
   

9. National Buildings Construction Corporation Limited (NBCC) – Executes residential, commercial, civil, and national-security infrastructure projects from design to completion.
   

10. National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) – An integrated aluminium producer managing bauxite mining, alumina refining, smelting, and power generation.
    

11. National Mineral Development Corporation Limited (NMDC) – India’s largest iron-ore producer, also exploring copper, limestone, diamonds, and other minerals.
    

12. Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) – Executes railway infrastructure projects including new lines, electrification, bridges, and workshops on a turnkey basis.
    

13. Shipping Corporation of India Limited (SCI) – Operates liner, bulk carrier, tanker, offshore, and passenger shipping services for domestic and international trade.
    

14. ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL) – Overseas arm of ONGC engaged in oil and gas exploration and production in multiple countries.
    

15. RITES Limited – Provides transport infrastructure consultancy and project management in railways, airports, bridges, and other sectors.
    

16. IRCON International Limited – Specialises in EPC contracts for railways, highways, metros, tunnels, and bridges in India and abroad.

Navratna PSUs:

• Help in strategic sectors like defence, mining, and infrastructure

• Generate employment across rural and urban areas

• Contribute to national exports and import substitution

• Facilitate public-private partnerships in critical industries

Navratna companies form a crucial pillar of India’s public sector ecosystem. Positioned between Miniratna and Maharatna categories, they enjoy a balance of autonomy and accountability, enabling them to pursue growth, innovation, and competitiveness. For stakeholders, understanding their structure and capabilities provides valuable insights into India’s strategic economic planning and industrial execution.

This content is for informational purposes only and the same should not be construed as investment advice. Bajaj Finserv Direct Limited shall not be liable or responsible for any investment decision that you may take based on this content.