Ministry of Defence
IOL launches indigenous 'GARUD' High Resolution Binoculars for civil market
MainsGS3Science & TechnologyGovernanceSecurity
Source-grounded summary
India Optel Limited (IOL), a Mini‑Ratana Category‑I Defence PSU under the Department of Defence Production, launched the indigenous ‘GARUD’ High‑Resolution Binoculars for the civil market on 13 August 2026. Developed and manufactured by Ordnance Factory, Dehradun, the binocular offers 8× magnification, a 7.6° field of view, ±5 diopter adjustment, weather‑resistant construction and weighs about 610 g. The product is positioned as a civilian‑grade version of a platform previously used by the Defence Forces and Central Armed Police Forces, aiming to provide outdoor enthusiasts and professionals with defence‑grade optical performance while embodying the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ ethos.