New Delhi: Binocular technology built around a platform used by India’s Defence Forces and Central Armed Police Forces is now being taken to civilian users, with defence PSU India Optel Limited launching its indigenous GARUD high-resolution binoculars for the commercial market.
The binoculars have been developed and manufactured by Ordnance Factory, Dehradun, a unit of India Optel Limited (IOL), which operates under the Department of Defence Production.
The launch marks IOL’s entry into the civilian optics market, extending its experience in precision optical manufacturing beyond defence and security applications.
According to the Ministry of Defence, GARUD draws on a binocular platform that has been used by the Defence Forces and Central Armed Police Forces under operational conditions.
The binoculars offer 8x magnification along with a 7.6-degree field of view, providing users with magnified observation while retaining a relatively wide viewing area.
GARUD also comes with ±5 diopter adjustment to accommodate differences in eyesight. Soft-touch eyecups, an ergonomic grip and weather-resistant construction have been incorporated for extended use in different outdoor conditions.
At approximately 610 grams, the binoculars are positioned for uses including birdwatching, wildlife observation, nature exploration, travel, sports, forestry, marine activities and security-related applications.
The product also carries a strong Dehradun manufacturing connection. Ordnance Factory, Dehradun, which developed and manufactures GARUD, is part of IOL’s precision optics manufacturing setup.
GARUD was launched at DPSU Bhawan in New Delhi on August 13 in the presence of Joint Secretary (Land Systems) Dr Garima Bhagat.
Senior officials from the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Central Armed Police Forces and Wildlife Society of India, along with IOL board members and senior officers, attended the launch.
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