India has some powerful government companies that play a big role in our country’s growth—but only a few earn the prestigious title of Navratna companies in India. These special companies aren’t just successful—they’ve proven themselves with strong profits, performance, and the ability to compete globally. But what exactly makes a company "Navratna"?
In this blog, you’ll find the list of Navratna companies in India 2026, along with simple answers to all your questions—what a Navratna company really is, how many there are, how they earn the title, and why they matter to every Indian. Ready to explore the most trusted names in India's public sector? Let’s get started!
India’s Navratna companies include some of the most reliable and high-performing public sector enterprises. These companies have shown strong financial results over the years and have earned extra decision-making power from the government to grow and compete globally.
As of January 2026, there are 26 Navratna Companies:
| S.No | Company Name | Established Year |
| 1 | Engineers India Limited (EIL) | 1965 |
| 2 | Container Corporation of India Limited (CONCOR) | 1988 |
| 3 | Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) | 1954 |
| 4 | Neyveli Lignite Corporation Limited (NLC India) | 1956 |
| 5 | Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) | 1971 |
| 6 | Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilisers Limited (RCF) | 1978 |
| 7 | Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) | 1986 |
| 8 | National Buildings Construction Corporation Limited (NBCC) | 1960 |
| 9 | National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) | 1981 |
| 10 | National Mineral Development Corporation Limited (NMDC) | 1958 |
| 11 | Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) | 2003 |
| 12 | Shipping Corporation of India Limited (SCI) | 1961 |
| 13 | ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL) | 1965 |
| 14 | RITES Limited | 1974 |
| 15 | IRCON International Limited | 1976 |
| 16 | National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) | 1974 |
| 17 | Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) | 1957 |
| 18 | Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) | 1987 |
| 19 | Housing & Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) | 1970 |
| 20 | Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) | 1934 |
| 21 | RailTel Corporation of India | 2000 |
| 22 | Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) | 2011 |
| 23 | NHPC Limited | 1975 |
| 24 | SJVN Limited | 1988 |
| 25 | Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) | 1999 |
| 26 | Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) | 1986 |
These Navratna companies in India stand out for their strong governance, consistent profits, and ability to operate with greater independence compared to regular PSUs.
Let’s take a closer look at the top-performing Navratna companies in India, what they do, and why they’ve earned a spot on the government’s elite Navratna company list. These public sector companies have delivered solid results and continue to serve key industries across energy, infrastructure, defence, and logistics.
Engineers India Limited (EIL) continues to act as the nation's premier engineering consultancy, specifically for the oil, gas, and petrochemical sectors. This Navratna company in India is known for planning and executing major refinery and pipeline projects, both in India and abroad. In 2026, EIL has pivoted significantly toward energy transition projects, securing mandates for green hydrogen plants and bio-refineries.
Sector: Engineering & Project Management
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 8.34% | 133.89% | 147.39 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
Also read: Maharatna Company List in India 2024: CPSE Company
CONCOR is a logistics PSU handling intermodal transport and freight across the country. As one of the most reliable Navratna companies in India, it plays a crucial role in India's import-export trade through rail-linked terminals. Its efficiency and revenue growth make it a standout among all Indian public sector companies in logistics.
Sector: Logistics & Transportation
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -14.36 | -12.58 | 48.07 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
BEL is a defence-focused government PSU that manufactures radar systems, communication tools, and electronic warfare systems for the Indian military. It’s a star performer showcasing technological innovation and steady growth.
Sector: Defence Electronics
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 45.12 | 316.22 | 839.57 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
NLC India is involved in lignite mining and power generation. This government-owned company supplies electricity to multiple Indian states and is expanding into solar and wind energy. Its financial consistency and sectoral impact make it a strong part of the Navratna companies in the Indian ecosystem.
Sector: Energy & Mining
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 10.75 | 209.04 | 362.96 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
RINL, popularly known as Vizag Steel, is a major public sector steel company producing long products used in construction and infrastructure. Despite market fluctuations, its performance keeps it on the trusted Navratna company list. It plays a key role in fulfilling India’s infrastructure development needs.
Note: Vizag Steel (RINL) lacks public share price or stock charts because it is a 100% Government of India-owned state enterprise, not listed on public exchanges like the BSE or NSE.
RCF manufactures urea, industrial chemicals, and fertilisers critical to Indian agriculture. RCF holds a strong position in the agrochemical space, supporting farmers and industries alike. Its extensive distribution network contributes to food security and rural development.
Sector: Chemicals & Fertilisers
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -21.54 | 7.49 | 159.03 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
MTNL is a telecom PSU offering broadband and landline services in Delhi and Mumbai. Despite competition, it remains a key government telecom company in India. Being on the PSU company list reflects its legacy and role in supporting digital connectivity in urban India.
Sector: Telecommunications
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -29.35 | 40.73 | 139.86 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
Also Read: Maharatna Company List in India 2024: CPSE Company
NBCC is a major construction and infrastructure PSU executing smart city, housing, and redevelopment projects. The company also handles overseas projects and is growing rapidly in the real estate sector.
Sector: Infrastructure & Real Estate
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 24.09 | 330.64 | 415.45 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
NALCO is among India’s largest public sector companies in aluminium production. From mining bauxite to producing refined aluminium, it’s fully integrated and exports to several countries.
Sector: Metals & Mining
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 62.45 | 303.15 | 584.10 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
As India’s largest iron ore producer, NMDC plays a strategic role in meeting the steel sector’s raw material demand. It stands out for its mining capacity and profitability. The company is also expanding into steel manufacturing and value-added products.
Sector: Mining
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 23.57 | 98.91 | 88.85 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
RVNL is one of the fastest-growing government infrastructure companies in India, handling railway electrification, track laying, and metro rail projects. Being part of the Navratna companies in India list shows its efficiency and contribution to India’s expanding rail network.
Sector: Rail Infrastructure
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -18.64 | 361.76 | 1002.26 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
SCI is a central public sector enterprise managing India's overseas shipping, bulk carriers, and oil tankers. It supports maritime trade and defence logistics. SCI also operates passenger vessels and offshore services.
Sector: Shipping & Maritime Logistics
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 4.65 | 51.92 | 144.27 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
OVL is the international arm of ONGC, operating oil and gas projects in over 15 countries. It strengthens India’s energy security by exploring and producing hydrocarbons abroad. OVL is a global player contributing to the nation’s overseas energy strategy.
Sector: Oil & Gas Exploration
NOTE: A stock chart for ONGC Videsh Limited is not publicly available because it is not a publicly listed company on any stock exchange. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of its publicly traded parent company, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC). THUS, It is not publicly traded.
14. RITES Limited
RITES is a multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy and one of the most efficient PSUs in India. It provides planning and execution services for railways, roads, and metro infrastructure. RITES’ strong financials and export contracts have secured its place in the Navratna list.
Sector: Transport Engineering
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -16.90 | 41.52 | 71.56 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
IRCON handles railway and highway construction projects in India and abroad, especially in developing countries. As a strong performer, IRCON is known for timely execution and technical excellence in infrastructure. It reflects India’s growing engineering strength globally.
Sector: Infrastructure Development
Returns:
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -18.92 | 186.28 | 265.32 |
Data as of 08/01/2026
Sector: Fertilizers
Role: India's second-largest producer of Urea. NFL's elevation to Navratna status in 2024 aids in modernizing its plants to improve energy efficiency and reduce import dependency.
Returns:
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -27.80 | 14.23 | 109.61 |
Sector: Warehousing & Logistics
Role: Provides logistics and warehousing support for the agricultural sector. Navratna status allows CWC to modernize its cold chain infrastructure aggressively to reduce food wastage.
Note: Chart of Public Trading is not given as CWC is not listed yet. Open a Demat account with Lakshmishree today to be the first to apply when the IPO launches.
Sector: Green Finance (NBFC)
Role: A specialized financial institution for the Renewable Energy sector.
Significance: With India's ambitious 2030 renewable energy targets, IREDA acts as the primary financier. Navratna status allows it to raise funds globally at competitive rates, which is crucial for financing solar and wind projects.
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -36.20 | 181.90 | 181.90 |
Sector: Housing Finance
Role: Finances housing and urban infrastructure projects. HUDCO is central to the government's "Housing for All" and Smart City missions.
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 9.80 | 314.31 | 391.73 |
Sector: Defence/Shipbuilding
Role: India’s premier warship and submarine builder, operating under the Ministry of Defence. It is the only shipyard capable of building destroyers and conventional submarines (Scorpene class) simultaneously.
Returns:
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 13.50 | 512.88 | 2,128.21 |
Sector: Telecom/Rail Tech
Role: The digital arm of Indian Railways. It owns a massive optical fiber network (61,000+ km) along railway tracks, providing broadband, VPN services, and Data Center solutions. It is also the key implementer of the 'Kavach' (anti-collision) safety system.
Returns:
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -11.86 | 178.75 | 224.27 |
Role: The nodal agency for implementing India’s National Solar Mission. SECI acts as the primary intermediary—it conducts auctions for solar/wind projects, buys power from developers, and sells it to state discoms. It is effectively the "Market Maker" for green energy in India.
Note: Chart of Public Trading is not given as CWC is not listed yet. Open a Demat account with Lakshmishree today to be the first to apply when the IPO launches.
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| na | na | na |
Role: India's largest hydropower development organization. While its core is hydro, it is aggressively diversifying into Solar, Wind, and Pumped Storage Projects (PSP) to become a round-the-clock green energy giant.
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| 3.42 | 106.29 | 226.69 |
Sector: Power
Role: Originally a joint venture between the Govt of India and Govt of Himachal Pradesh for hydroelectric power (operating the massive 1,500 MW Nathpa Jhakri station). It has now pivoted aggressively into a "Green Energy Supermarket," executing solar and wind projects across Gujarat, UP, and Bihar.
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -23.45 | 129.97 | 207.51 |
Role: The Face of Indian Railways. It holds a near-monopoly on online railway ticketing and manages catering services (food on trains) and Rail Neer (water). It also runs luxury trains (Maharajas' Express) and budget hotels.
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -15.17 | 2.43 | 117.75 |
Status Year: 2026
Role: The dedicated "Wallet" of Indian Railways. It is a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) that raises funds from domestic and international markets to finance the acquisition of rolling stock (trains, wagons) and project assets, which are then leased back to the Railways.
Note: As of January 2026, reports suggest IRFC is a strong candidate for an upgrade to Maharatna status due to its immense asset base and profitability, but it currently holds the Navratna tag.
| 1Y Return (%) | 3Y Return (%) | 5Y Return (%) |
| -15.21 | 275.07 | 397.83 |
A Navratna company is a special type of public sector company in India that performs very well and gets more freedom from the government to make important decisions. The word “Navratna” means ‘Nine Gems’, and this title was first given to nine top-performing government companies in the late 1990s. Over time, more companies have joined the Navratna company list as they met the required standards.
To become a Navratna PSU, a company must be a Miniratna Category I company first and should have a strong track record of profits, good financial results, and be active in key sectors like energy, transport, defence, or manufacturing.
These companies are important because they help India grow in many areas, and they get more independence than other regular PSUs. This means they don’t always need to ask the government before investing in new projects or forming joint ventures.
So, in simple words, a Navratna company in India is a high-performing government company that gets extra powers to expand and grow faster in both Indian and global markets.
Here are some of the most important features that make Navratna companies in India stand out:
Not every public sector company in India can become a Navratna company. To earn this prestigious title, a company must meet strict eligibility rules set by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE). These rules are designed to ensure that only the most efficient and financially strong PSUs get the status.
Here are the official criteria for a company to qualify as a Navratna PSU:
Once a PSU meets all these conditions, it can be granted Navratna status, giving it more operational freedom and financial powers compared to other public sector companies.
As of 2026, there are a total of 26 Navratna companies in India. These companies have been awarded Navratna status by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) for meeting strict financial and performance criteria. They belong to key sectors like energy, defence, transportation, logistics, and infrastructure.
Investing in Navratna companies in India is easy and works the same way as buying stocks of any listed company.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get started:
Understanding the difference between Maharatna and Navratna companies in India is important for investors, job seekers, and anyone interested in the public sector.
Here’s a simple comparison table to help you understand the key differences:
| Feature | Maharatna Companies | Navratna Companies |
| Authority Granting Status | Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) | Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) |
| Minimum Net Worth | ₹15,000 crore | ₹2,500 crore |
| Annual Turnover Requirement | ₹25,000 crore | ₹2,000 crore (avg over last 3 years) |
| Investment Limit Without Govt Approval | Up to ₹5,000 crore | Up to ₹1,000 crore |
| Number of Companies (2026) | 14 Maharatna companies | 26 Navratna companies |
| Example Companies | ONGC, NTPC, BHEL, IOCL | BEL, EIL, NBCC, RVNL |
| Level of Autonomy | Highest among all PSUs | Moderate autonomy |
The Navratna companies in India are some of the most reliable and impactful government-owned enterprises. With strong financials, strategic autonomy, and a presence in key sectors like defence, infrastructure, logistics, and mining, these companies are shaping India’s growth story. In 2026, with 26 total Navratna companies in India, this category continues to represent strength, stability, and opportunity in the PSU ecosystem.
1.What are the Navratna companies?
Navratna companies are top-performing public sector undertakings (PSUs) in India that have been given greater financial and operational autonomy by the central government. These companies are recognised for their consistent profits, strategic importance, and ability to operate with limited government interference.
2. How many Navratna companies are there in India?
As of the year 2026, there are a total of 26 Navratna companies in India. These include public sector companies across various industries such as defence, infrastructure, logistics, and energy. The number can change if new companies meet the eligibility criteria or if existing ones are promoted to Maharatna status.
3. Which are the latest Navratna companies in India?
The most recent additions to the list include Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC), Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders. These were granted status due to their critical roles in the railway and defense sectors.
4. Which is the 14th Navratna company in India?
Historically, ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL) was the 14th company to join the list. However, with so many new upgrades in 2024-25, the order has changed, and OVL remains a key unlisted Navratna focusing on international oil exploration.
5. What are the eligibility criteria for a Navratna company?
To become a Navratna company in India, a public sector enterprise must first be a Miniratna Category I company and be listed as a Schedule ‘A’ CPSE. Additionally, it must achieve a score of 60 or above (out of 100) in a performance-based evaluation conducted by the Department of Public Enterprises.
6. Why is Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) not in this list?
This is a common question. HAL was formerly a Navratna company, but due to its massive financial success and strategic importance in the defense sector, it was upgraded to a Maharatna Company in October 2024. It has "graduated" to the highest league of PSUs and is now in the Maharatna list, not the Navratna list.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Please note that the data related to the mentioned companies may change over time. The securities referenced are provided as examples and should not be considered as recommendations.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Please note that the data related to the mentioned companies may change over time. The securities referenced are provided as examples and should not be considered as recommendations.
