The Centre has capped the maximum retail price of three-ply face masks made of meltblown non-woven fabric at 16 rupees per piece till 30th of June. Talking to AIR News, Consumer Affairs Secretary Pawan Agarwal said that the rate of 16 rupees per mask has been fixed after holding consultations with the mask manufactures. He said, the decision will ensure adequate availability of masks.     

On 21st of March, the Consumer Affairs Ministry had notified maximum retail price for two-ply at eight rupees and three-ply surgical masks at 10 rupees per piece. Mr Agarwal said, efforts are being made to ensure sufficient supply of face masks and hand sanitizers are available in the current situation.