India Optel Limited (IOL), a Mini Ratna Category-I Defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Department of Defence Production, has launched the indigenous 'GARUD' High Resolution Binoculars for the civil market, marking the company's entry into civilian optics.
The GARUD binoculars were developed and manufactured by Ordnance Factory, Dehradun, a unit of IOL, and represent the spirit of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' through indigenous design and manufacturing. The product leverages the company's precision optical manufacturing legacy dating back to 1943, combining defense-grade expertise with modern technology for civilian applications.
Technical specifications include 8x magnification with a wide 7.6-degree field of view, ±5 diopter adjustment for individual eyesight, soft-touch eyecups for comfortable extended viewing, and weather-resistant construction for reliable use across varied outdoor conditions. Weighing approximately 610 grams, the binoculars offer portability with dependable performance in a compact design.
The product is suited for diverse applications including birdwatching, wildlife observation, nature exploration, travel, sports, forestry, marine activities, and security-related applications. This launch makes India's trusted defense optical capabilities available to the wider public, drawing upon a binocular platform that has served Defense Forces and Central Armed Police Forces in demanding operational conditions.
The indigenous optical product was officially launched on August 13, 2026, at DPSU Bhawan, New Delhi, in the presence of Joint Secretary (Land Systems) Dr. Garima Bhagat. The event was attended by senior officers from the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Central Armed Police Forces, Wildlife Society of India, along with members of the Board of Directors and senior officers of IOL.