New Delhi: India Optel Limited (IOL), a Mini Ratna Category-I Defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Department of Defence Production, has entered the civilian optics market with the launch of its indigenous GARUD High Resolution Binoculars.

Developed and manufactured by Ordnance Factory, Dehradun, a unit of IOL, GARUD brings decades of defence optical expertise to civilian users. The product builds on the organisation’s legacy of precision optical manufacturing, which dates back to 1943, combining established capabilities with contemporary technology.

Designed for clear and wide-area observation, GARUD offers 8x magnification and a 7.6-degree field of view. It features ±5 diopter adjustment for individual eyesight correction, soft-touch eyecups for extended viewing comfort and an ergonomic grip. Its weather-resistant construction allows it to be used across a range of outdoor conditions.

Weighing around 610 grams, the binocular is designed to balance portability with optical performance. It can be used for birdwatching, wildlife observation, nature exploration, travel, sports, forestry, marine activities and security-related applications.

The product draws on a binocular platform that has been used by the Defence Forces and Central Armed Police Forces in demanding operational environments. With its launch in the civilian market, IOL is making this indigenous optical capability available to a wider range of users, including outdoor enthusiasts and professionals.

GARUD was launched at DPSU Bhawan, New Delhi, in the presence of Joint Secretary (Land Systems) Dr Garima Bhagat. The event was attended by senior officials from the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Central Armed Police Forces and Wildlife Society of India, along with members of the IOL Board of Directors and senior company officials.