Troop Comforts Ltd (TCL), a state-owned defence corporation, has recently received a request for proposal (RFP) from the Northern Command of the Indian Army for its indigenously developed military gear. Meanwhile, several of TCL's products are undergoing field trials under the Eastern Command. The company, which specialises in manufacturing military equipment, is working on a range of products such as boots, crampons, ice pitons, hammer pitons, sleeping bags, multi-purpose bags, and clothing items.

Established in October 2021 after being carved out of the erstwhile Ordnance Factory Board, TCL is focused on developing specialised gear tailored for personnel stationed in challenging terrains, ranging from mountainous regions to extremely cold conditions. Ranveer Singh, a junior works manager at TCL, emphasised the company's shift from importing most of their gear to developing products using indigenous technology.

During the East Tech 2023 defence expo, TCL showcased its innovations alongside nearly 200 other manufacturers. The company is dedicated to enhancing the utility and aesthetics of its products. For instance, they have redesigned military bags for improved functionality and appearance. Similarly, TCL has made innovations in sleeping bags, making them more foldable and comfortable, as highlighted by Pervez Badar, another junior works manager at TCL.

TCL's products, particularly in the realms of clothing, climbing, and allied gears, are undergoing rigorous field trials under the Eastern Command. The company has also submitted 21 samples during an expo under the Northern Command, receiving RFPs for several of their offerings. TCL officials express confidence that incorporating feedback from these trials will enable them to manufacture some of the finest defence gear globally. This endeavour not only reduces dependence on foreign technology but also conserves crucial foreign exchange.

Operating from its headquarters in Kanpur, TCL operates four manufacturing units across the country. In addition to meeting the requirements of defence personnel, including those in the Ministry of Home Affairs forces, TCL supplies its products to various state police departments. Their product range includes clothing items, accessories, and technologically advanced gear designed to support personnel in extreme environmental conditions, spanning from -50 degrees Celsius to 50 degrees Celsius, encompassing glaciers to deserts.

Source: Business Standard