Maharashtra becomes first state in country to cap prices of masks

Maharashtra has become the first state in the country to cap the prices of masks. N95 masks will now be available at Rs 19 to Rs 49, while two-layer and three-layer masks will be available for Rs 3 to 4. Health Minister Rajesh Tope informed that the state government has announced the ruling in this regard yesterday.

This maximum selling price limit will be applicable to all mask manufacturing companies / distributors / retailers in the state. All mask manufacturers / distributors / retailers in the state will be required to display the quality of the mask and its fixed maximum selling price.

In case of any grievance in this regard, at the state



level, the Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration and at the district level, the Collector will be the competent authorities. Given the need for masks in the state, the manufacturer will be required to make available the goods produced and required in the state at the prescribed rate.

Government and private hospitals / nursing homes / covid care centers / dedicated covid hospitals etc. in the state will be required to provide the mask at the rate of 70% of the prescribed maximum selling price limit. It has been mentioned in the ruling that private hospitals cannot charge more than 110% of the purchase price.