The Karnataka government is actively seeking innovative technologies to combat sandalwood theft, a growing concern for farmers in the state. Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL), known for its Mysuru Sandal Soap, is spearheading this initiative, inviting farmers, scientists, and organizations to propose advanced solutions. Minister M B Patil announced that KSDL will cover the costs of implementing effective technologies. In a bid to encourage sandalwood cultivation, KSDL will honor four farmers who have supplied the highest quantities of sandalwood during a ceremony on June 4, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar. Additionally, police and forest officials who have successfully apprehended sandalwood thieves will also be recognized. Despite stringent laws against sandalwood theft, the issue persists, with low conviction rates. KSDL has procured 174.5 metric tonnes of sandalwood from farmers over the past three years, transferring ₹6.08 crore (roughly $730,000 USD) to their accounts.