Industrial Visit to KSDL, Bangalore

The undergraduate students of BBA final year were taken for an industrial visit to Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL) on 14^th February 2018 during the college hours. They were accompanied by Prof Meera Seshanna, the Class Co-ordinator.

KSDL, a government owned enterprise was established in 1916 and is located in Bangalore, Karnataka. It is the only unit in Asia which is registered under the government of India to manufacture over 26,000 tons of sandalwood soaps every year with authentic sandalwood oil extracted from the sandalwood plantations in Southern India. The company produces Mysore Sandal Soaps, Personal care items, Perfumes, Cosmetics and Detergents.

Mr. Balakrishna; PRO and Head- R&D explained the uniqueness of the factory and the process involved in the production of soap. Students were shown the sandalwood trees and were told the legalities involved in possessing these plants by an individual farm or garden. Then, the students were taken around the factory where the soaps are being manufactured. Mr. Balakrishna elucidated to the students that KSDL imports the primary raw material –the palm oil from Malaysia that is used in manufacturing the soaps.

The soap making undergoes 3 stages-preparation, conversion, and the finishing product. Initially, the soap is in the liquid state which is then converted into a solid soap .At this stage fragrance is added to the soap & it is then ready for packaging .Soaps are collected and wrapped with the Logo and Brand name. The machines which were installed in 1916 are used even today which efficiently delivers the required products to the loyal consumers. Mr. Balakrishna further spoke about the new technology that will soon be incorporated in the production and packing of soaps.

Students realized Mysore Sandal Soap’s uniqueness as an established brand in the world.                                                                                                                              Prof Meera Seshanna