
Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL), one of the state’s most iconic public sector undertakings with a legacy spanning over 110 years, has achieved a significant milestone by recording a turnover of ₹2,016 crore for the first time in its history during the financial year 2025–26. Announcing the achievement, Minister for Commerce and Industries MB Patil congratulated the organisation for its remarkable growth and consistent performance.
KSDL’s growth trajectory has accelerated sharply in recent years. While it took the company nearly 105 years to reach a turnover of ₹1,000 crore, it added the next ₹1,000 crore in just four years. Over the past three years alone, the company’s turnover has increased by ₹641 crore, reaching ₹2,016 crore. This growth has translated into a profit of ₹507 crore.
The company has significantly expanded its product portfolio, increasing the number of products from 34 to 94 within three years. Production capacity has also risen from 26,000 metric tonnes to 47,000 metric tonnes. Notably, this expansion was achieved through improved operational efficiency without major investment in new machinery or additional workforce.
From its profits, KSDL will contribute ₹157 crore as a dividend to the state government and ₹5 crore to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
KSDL has successfully strengthened its presence in modern trade and digital platforms. In the financial year 2025–26, the company generated ₹420 crore from modern retail channels and ₹120 crore through e commerce platforms, marking a strong shift from traditional market dependence.
Looking ahead, KSDL has set ambitious targets of achieving a turnover of ₹3,000 crore by 2028 and ₹5,000 crore by 2030. To support this growth, a new manufacturing unit is being established in Vijayapura with an investment of ₹229 crore.
To ensure a steady supply of raw materials, KSDL has launched the ‘Grow More Sandal’ initiative in collaboration with farmers. The programme aims to develop 10,000 acres of sandalwood plantations, offering an incentive of ₹500 per sapling. Over the past three years, the company has procured 174 tonnes of sandalwood directly from farmers, transferring ₹6.08 crore to their bank accounts.
At an event titled ‘Mysore Sandal’s Peak of Achievement’ held in Bengaluru, employees and officials were honoured for their contributions. Under the leadership of Chairman CS Appaji Nadagowda and Managing Director Dr PKM Prashanth, KSDL is expanding its global footprint, with plans to enter markets in Australia and the UAE.
KSDL’s transformation from a traditional soap manufacturer into a diversified and fast-growing enterprise reflects its evolving role in strengthening Karnataka’s industrial and economic landscape.
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