With sandalwood theft continuing to be a major concern for growers in the state, Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Ltd has invited farmers, scientists and organisations to suggest advanced technologies and equipment to protect the precious trees.Announcing the initiative Thursday, industries minister MB Patil said individuals and organisations with innovative anti-theft solutions will be given the opportunity to demonstrate the technology before KSDL officials.If the proposed systems are found effective and feasible, the matter will be placed before govt for consideration and implementation, he said, adding that KSDL will bear the cost of deploying technologies.To encourage sandalwood cultivation in the state, four farmers who supply good quantity produce to KSDL will be honoured with awards on June 4. The minister said police personnel, forest officials and citizens who help crack sandalwood theft cases will be recognised and rewarded too.The minister observed that farmers cultivating sandalwood trees on their lands have been facing increasing threats in recent years due to thefts. “Although stringent laws are in place to curb such activities, the number of cases resulting in convictions remains very low,” Patil said.
