What pay and perks enjoyed by Merchant Navy personnel ?
Pay and perks differs from company to company. Emoluments are much higher on a foreign vessel especially the West European, US, and those form Gulf. Officers earn from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2,00,000 a month, depending on the level of seniority and shipping organization. Every officers and crew of the merchant navy working on board a vessel, which is carrying foreign cargo, is entitled to draw 75 per cent of his net earning in foreign exchange. Besides the foreign currency, cigarettes, canned foods and cosmetics are available on board duty free. Personnel with NRI status can enjoy additional tax benefits.
