SJVN, NHPC, RailTel and Solar Energy Corporation of India get ‘Navratna’ Status

Current Context: On August 29, 2024, the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), Ministry of Finance, granted the prestigious Navratna status to four public sector enterprises.

• Here’s a quick overview of the companies:
• Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN)
• National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC)
• RailTel Corporation of India (RailTel)
• Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)
• This upgrade brings the total number of Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in India to 25.
• What is Navratna Status?
• Enhanced Autonomy: Navratna status empowers these companies with greater financial and operational autonomy.
• Increased Investment Power: They can invest up to ₹1,000 crore or 15% of their net worth in a single project without prior government approval.
• Expanded Investment Flexibility: They can invest up to 30% of their net worth in a year, subject to a cumulative limit of ₹1,000 crore.
• Board-Level Decision-Making: Navratna companies have more flexibility in decision-making at the board level.

Question

1 What is the total number of Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in India after the recent upgrade?

• A) 25
• B) 22
• C) 29
• D) 30

Answer: A) The recent upgrade brought the total number of Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in India to 25.