The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
The 'Navratna' scheme was introduced by the Government of India in 1997. Its purpose was to identify Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) that possessed comparative advantages and to support them in their drive to become global giants.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The core objective of the Navratna policy was to improve efficiency, infuse professionalism, and enhance the competitiveness of select PSEs in the global market.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The policy was designed to grant enhanced managerial and financial autonomy to these enterprises, not strip them of it. The Boards of Navratna PSEs were delegated powers to incur capital expenditure, enter into joint ventures, and effect organizational restructuring without seeking government approval for every decision.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Navratna policy focused on strengthening public sector units through autonomy and performance improvement. There was no policy decision to fully privatise all Navratna companies by 2010. While disinvestment is a separate parallel policy, the Navratna status itself implies continued state ownership with operational freedom.
Key Takeaway
Navratna status is a classification for CPSEs that grants significant financial and operational autonomy, enabling them to invest capital and manage resources independently to compete effectively on a global scale.