As of July 2025, which of the following central public sector enterprise is awarded with 'Navratna' status?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 1: Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited (RCF).
Explanation:
In September 2023, the Government of India granted 'Navratna' status to Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited (RCF). As of July 2025, it continues to remain in this category.
Navratna Status: This status is accorded to Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) that already hold 'Miniratna Category-I' status and have demonstrated excellent financial performance over the preceding years.
Autonomy: Navratna companies enjoy the financial autonomy to undertake investments of up to ₹1,000 crore without requiring prior approval from the Central Government.
Analysis of Other Options:
- The remaining three options currently fall under the 'Maharatna' category—a status higher than that of Navratna companies:
- Option 2: Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) – This is a Maharatna company.
- Option 3: Rural Electrification Corporation Limited (REC) – It was granted Maharatna status in 2022.
- Option 4: Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) – This is also a Maharatna company.
Additional Facts:
Maharatna Companies: Currently, there are a total of 13 Maharatna companies in India (such as BHEL, BPCL, CIL, GAIL, IOCL, NTPC, ONGC, SAIL, PFC, REC, OIL, etc.).
Navratna Companies: The number of Navratna companies is updated periodically. By the end of 2024, following the inclusion of companies like IRCON and RITES, their total count has exceeded 20.