Hindustan Copper targets Navratna status amid aggressive expansion

State-run Hindustan Copper is actively pursuing Navratna status, with Chairman and Managing Director Sanjiv Kumar Singh highlighting the ambition as a reflection of the company’s improving operational performance and strategic growth trajectory.

The push for higher status comes as the company accelerates expansion across its mining operations. 

HCL remains India’s only vertically integrated refined copper producer, with capabilities spanning exploration, mining, beneficiation, smelting, refining and casting. In a recent communication to employees, Singh said the Navratna goal symbolises organisational excellence and maturity, while driving the company to enhance performance standards. 

The status, granted would provide greater financial and operational autonomy, allowing investments of up to ₹1,000 crore or 15% of net worth in projects without prior government approval. To qualify, CPSEs must meet stringent criteria, including strong financial performance, consistent high ratings and a composite score across key operational metrics such as profitability, cost efficiency and earnings per share. It has reported steady progress during FY26, strengthening mining operations, advancing expansion and greenfield projects, and improving systems, processes and compliance.          — PTI