Seafarers' Rights Overview
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration is committed to protecting the rights, welfare, and dignity of Indian seafarers. Every seafarer is entitled to fair employment practices, safe working and living conditions, timely payment of wages, access to quality medical care, social security protection, and repatriation in accordance with applicable national laws and international maritime conventions.
Awareness & Legal Framework
Maritime Labour Convention, 2006
- Eligibility requirements for seafarers
- Terms and conditions of employment
- Standards relating to accommodation & food
- Health protection & social security safeguards
Fundamental Rights
- Eligibility requirements for seafarers
- Terms and conditions of employment
- Standards relating to accommodation & food
- Health protection & social security safeguards
- Freedom of association
- Right to collective bargaining
- Freedom from forced labour
- Protection against discrimination
Employment & Wages
Before joining a vessel, every seafarer should understand the terms of their Seafarers' Employment Agreement (SEA), Key rights include:
- Timely payment of wages and applicable overtime.
- Paid annual leave and defined working hours.
- Protection in situations where a vessel is abandoned by the shipowner.
Health, Repatriation & Resources
Compensation & Injury
Entitlement to compensation in cases involving occupational injury, long-term disability, or death during employment.
Right to Repatriation
Right to be repatriated at the completion of contract, including outstanding wages, food, and safe travel
Consular Assistance
Support during detention or arrest abroad through Indian Embassies
Downloadable Resources
| TITLE | ISSUE DATE | ACTION |
|---|---|---|
| Seafarers' Fundamental Rights (2024) | 23-07-2024 | Download |
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