Following an international agreement between the National Union of Seafarers of India and 'manning agents' who recruit them, the wages of seafarers have been hiked with effect from January 1, 2004.

As per the agreement signed on December 12 between the International Transport Workers Federation, London, and the International Bargaining Forum, the death and disability compensation has been raised to $75,000, according to a media release from NUSI.

The seafarers were now entitled to be paid for sickness leave for 130 days instead of 120 days.

The seafarers could also now take advantage of the facility to communicate with their families from the ship and foreign ships at the company's expense.

According to Abdulgani Serang, NUSI general secretary, the agreement was a historic one since it would benefit Indian seafarers both in terms of cash and social benefits.

"Further, since the agreement will be the same for different nationalities, it would ensure a competitive edge for Indian seafarers since the latter possess the required skills and have a legacy of ancient maritime tradition."