Prasit Artsai, 58, a disabled individual living in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Phimai district, gazed at his bank account with a sense of elation. The government’s digital wallet handout scheme had deposited 10,000 baht directly into his account on Wednesday, and the joy on his face was palpable. Despite his leg muscle atrophy—a condition that severely limits his mobility—Prasit immediately made his way to withdraw the much-needed funds.
“This money means the world to me,” Prasit explained, his eyes welling with gratitude. Living with his younger sibling in tambon Nikhom, he relies heavily on the state’s meager monthly allowance for disabled individuals. Given the high cost of living, every baht counts. The 10,000 baht would allow him to buy essential food supplies, new clothes, and contribute to household expenses, alleviating some of the financial burden from his sibling.
While the happiness was spread among many, the handout did not reach every eligible person on the first day. In Nakhon Ratchasima, queues formed early on Wednesday at the ATMs of Government Savings Bank and Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives, with people eagerly checking their account balances.
Not far from Prasit’s home, Adul Niyomyat, a 49-year-old disabled resident of tambon Bot, found himself still waiting for the funds to appear in his account. Adul routinely checked his balance, each time hoping to see that life-changing deposit. Frustration lingered as he questioned why some received the money immediately while others like him were left waiting. Adul had registered for the digital wallet scheme last month and linked his account to the PromptPay system, yet the anxiously awaited funds had not materialized.
Ratchada Nongbun, a 53-year-old disabled woman from tambon Nai Muang, faced a similar situation. She had joined the early morning queue at the bank, filled with plans to use the 10,000 baht to buy essentials for her family. But her excitement quickly turned to dismay when she discovered that the money had not yet arrived. Ratchada, however, chose to remain hopeful, believing that her patience would soon be rewarded as others had received theirs.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat shared insights into the disbursement process, stating that the money was being paid to the initial three million recipients on Wednesday, from a target of 14.5 million people under the government’s digital wallet handout programme. The rest would receive their funds progressively, hinting that patience was indeed a virtue in this scenario.
It’s wonderful that Prasit received his 10,000 baht! This program shows that the government is trying to support its citizens.
Yeah, but what about those who didn’t receive it on time? People like Adul are left in the lurch.
True, but the Deputy Finance Minister did mention that the rest would receive their funds progressively. It’s not perfect, but it’s a start.
I agree with SkepticJoe. Why announce a program if you can’t deliver to everyone at the same time?
Government programs always have hiccups at the start. Patience is key here.
This handout seems like a band-aid solution to deeper systemic issues.
The story is touching. Yet, is it really going to make a lasting difference?
For people like Prasit, even short-term relief can be life-changing.
Jake has a point. What happens after the 10,000 baht is spent?
Exactly. It feels like a temporary fix to keep people quiet.
Temporary or not, at least Prasit can live a bit comfortably for a while.
This program is an example of well-intended but poorly executed policy. There should’ve been better planning.
Totally agree, Dr. Maju. Proper execution is crucial for the success of any welfare scheme.
Planning can only do so much. Delay is inevitable with such a massive rollout.
So happy for Prasit! But why does it take forever for others to get their money?
The system is probably overwhelmed with requests. It’s frustrating but understandable.
Understandable, sure. But it still sucks for those waiting.
When will government services ever be truly efficient?
I think it’s a nice gesture by the government. The most vulnerable need the most help first.
I’ve registered too but haven’t received anything yet. Should I be worried?
I’m in the same boat. Let’s give it a few more days before raising the alarm.
Rather than giving money, how about creating better job opportunities for disabled individuals?
It’s good that someone’s getting help, but what’s the long-term plan?
Good question. Handouts are quick fixes. Long-term strategies are essential.
Exactly, Ravi. What’s the government’s plan for sustainable development?
We should appreciate the effort, but there’s room for improvement.
How do we ensure everyone who needs it gets it?
Faith in humanity restored, at least a little. Let’s hope Adul and Ratchada get theirs soon.
It’s a step in the right direction. Hopefully, it’s the beginning of more systemic changes.
Why do people always find a way to complain? Be grateful for what you get.
Interesting how some get early access. How is the prioritization determined?
Probably the earlier you register, the faster you receive it.
How can I make sure I get mine? Registered ages ago and still nothing.