To take precautionary measures against the spread of Covid-19, Government of India has declared "masks 2 ply and 3 ply surgical masks, N.95 masks and hand sanitizers as essential commodities by amending the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
A spokesperson of the Himachal Government said that accordingly, brought masks 2 ply and 3 ply surgical masks, N.95 masks and hand sanitizers are essential commodities within Himachal Pradesh.
Hoarding and Profiteering Prevention Order, 1977 will be applicable till June 30.
The spokesperson said now any act of hoarding as well as profiteering in respect of these commodities would attract penal provisions of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
Besides, officers and field functionaries of the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, powers for conducting inspections, search and seizures
under the order have also been conferred upon the Additional, Deputy, Assistant Drug Controllers, Chief Medical Officers, Block Medical Officers, Medical Officers (Health) and Drug Inspectors in their respective jurisdictions.