MUMBAI: The stand-off between television producers and workers ended on Wednesday after a fresh memorandum of understanding was signed between the two parties. There is a hitch though - sound recordists are not happy with the way things have worked out and have threatened another strike if their demands are not met. ( Watch )

Despite the understanding, TV addicts will have to endure withdrawal symptoms at least until Monday. The television industry will return to work on Thursday but fresh episodes may be aired only on Monday after a meeting between broadcasters and producers in a day or two.

The producers gave in to most of the workers' demands and appeared to have blinked first. Payment will now be made on a monthly basis, with each worker signing an individual contract with each producer. "It's a clear victory for the workers," a senior director said.

Members of the Allied Mazdoor Union will get paid according to the new rates proposed by the FWICE. Compulsory group insurance for all workers will come into effect and every worker will have to sign an individual contract with the producer. Producers will also have to give a month's notice along with a month's salary before sacking a worker.

Most workers are happy with the new wages but sound recordists, who have been asked to work on a monthly salary of Rs 40,000, are not. They want Rs 55,000 a month. They have threatened to strike work if their demands are not met.

The victory for workers may come at a price. The agreement for better wages may add to the production cost and producers "will definitely" cut down on the number of staff to keep costs down, say industry insiders.

However, producers were not focusing on the costs of the compromise on Wednesday. Vikas Mohan, a core committee member of the producers' organisation, said, "It's an agreement which is beneficial for everyone. The workers will get at least 15% higher wages. A separate wage card is necessary for the television industry as most workers are employed year-round."