Chemists to sell N95 mask for Rs 50 that Amul sells for Rs 65

After raising doubts over the quality of N95 masks being sold at Amul parlours that were bought from Gujarat Medical Services Corporation (GMSCL), the Federation of Gujarat State Chemists and Druggists Association (FGSCDA) is now planning to come up with the same type of N95 mask sold by Amul at Rs 50. The N95 masks sold by Amul parlours cost Rs 65 to the public.

FGSCDA Chairman Jasubhai Patel said, "We have already ordered same type of N95 masks that Amul is currently selling. If we can sell it at Rs 50, why has Amul been selling it at a higher price."

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani had on May 18 announced sale of N95 and 3-layered masks from 2,000 Amul parlours across the state for Rs 65 and Rs 5 respectively. However, the FGSCDA had raised doubts over the quality of N95 masks being sold from Amul parlours.

"N95 mask is a five-layered mask whose production cost is about Rs 135. If you add GST and other costs like handling and logistics then the price comes to about Rs 160. Amul parlours are selling N95 masks for only Rs 65. So, the question is: are they really N95 masks? I have doubts about its quality. Chemists are already selling masks of same quality at Rs 65," said Patel.

FGSCDA president Alpesh Patel said, "There are 35,000 members in Gujarat and 5000 in Ahmedabad. We will begin distribution of 32,000 masks to our members in Ahmedabad and Vadodara from today and others will get it within a week's time." The federation plans to produce 1 lakh masks in first round and will add as required.