¨     The Defence Minister approved the grant of Miniratna Category-I status to Yantra India Limited, a Defence Public Sector Undertaking formed after the corporatization of the Ordnance Factory Board, on February 2, 2026.

¨     In just four years, this company has transformed from a traditional government structure into a profitable enterprise with robust sales and growing exports. This decision is considered a significant step towards strengthening self-reliant defence production in India.

Yantra India Limited

¨     Yantra India Limited is one of the seven Defence Public Sector Undertakings formed after the corporatization of the Ordnance Factory Board in October 2021. It operates under the Department of Defence Production and focuses on high-technology defence manufacturing.

¨     Its key products include carbon fiber composites, artillery gun assemblies, ammunition components, armored vehicle systems, and materials used in main battle tanks. The company plays a crucial role in strengthening India's defence supply chain and reducing dependence on imports.

Why Miniratna Category-I status is important

¨     The Miniratna Category-I status grants Yantra India Limited greater financial and operational autonomy. Under this status, the company's board can approve capital expenditure up to ₹500 crore for new projects, modernization, and equipment procurement without government approval.

¨     This speeds up the decision-making process, enables faster technological upgrades, and enhances the company's competitiveness. This autonomy is extremely important in the defence manufacturing sector, as it allows the PSU to respond quickly to military requirements and global export opportunities.

The performance that earned recognition

¨     Yantra India Limited has shown tremendous growth since its inception.

¨     Its sales increased from ₹956.32 crore in 2021-22 (H2) to ₹3,108.79 crore in FY 2024-25.

¨     During the same period, exports increased from zero to ₹321.77 crore.

¨     Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised YIL's ​​management for increasing turnover in a short time, boosting indigenization, and meeting key performance benchmarks.