Ministry of Shipping has decided that all the major ports may grant compensation or Ex-Gratia in the event of loss of life due to COVID-19 to the dependent members or legal heirs of the port employees.<br />'' <br />'' Shipping Ministry said, all port employees including contract labourers employed directly by the port will get 50 Lakh rupees in case of loss of life due to COVID-19. Other Contractual Labourers will also get 50 lakh rupees.<br />'' <br />''Monetary Compensation is declared to cover the risk of life due to COVID-19 contamination while discharging the Port related duty. Port Chairman is the competent authority for settling claims or disbursement of compensation or Ex-Gratia and verifying authority for the cause of death from COVID-19. Shipping Ministry said, the compensation is applicable only for the pandemic of COVID-19 and shall be in force up to 30th September this year subject to review thereafter.<br />