As many as four bidders, including Tata Chemicals, have been shortlisted for acquiring stake in National Fertiliser Limited (NFL), slated for privatisation next month.

"We have shortlisted four bidders for acquiring majority stake in the fertiliser major, for which price bids will be invited early next month," official sources said. Tata Chemicals, Indo Gulf, Chambal Fertilisers and Oswal Chemicals are in the fray for a 51 per cent stake in NFL.

The government has mandated Rabo Finance Private Ltd to act as global advisors for the strategic sale. It currently holds 97.64 per cent stake in the fertiliser company.

NFL had a paid up capital of Rs 490crore as on March 31, 2000, of which the government holds Rs 479crore. Its net worth was placed at Rs 1,407crore.