In a bold move to boost welfare for the elderly, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra marks a significant milestone, kicking off the second phase of a comprehensive cash handout initiative. With much anticipation, the Prime Minister launched this ambitious campaign on a Monday, a day of new beginnings, especially for approximately three million senior citizens eagerly awaiting their slice of the 10,000-baht relief fund pie. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat explained on Sunday that this initiative is aimed specifically at individuals aged 60 and over, an indication of the government’s commitment to supporting its elderly citizens. These recipients will receive their payments through the reliable PromptPay service, integrated via the Tang Rath app.
Julapun emphasized the importance of linking national ID cards with PromptPay to prevent any hiccups in the fund disbursement process. “Only those who have registered and meet the eligibility criteria of earning less than 840,000 baht annually and possessing less than 500,000 baht in total account deposits will receive the funds,” he clarified. It seems a heartfelt effort to aid those truly in need, by focusing on vulnerable senior sectors this time around while excluding prior beneficiaries of the first phase.
For those potential recipients fretting about missing out due to technical difficulties, there’s reassuring news. The Comptroller General’s Department has announced three subsequent distribution dates—February 28, March 28, and April 28. So, if technology isn’t your forte and you miss this round, worry not! As long as IDs are linked to PromptPay at least three days before each new distribution date, funds will find their way to the rightful hands.
Of course, lessons have been learned from the initial phase. The previous attempt saw approximately 33,767 welfare cardholders missing out owing to missteps such as incorrect bank details, or the infamous account-linked blunders. While the reasons varied, the warning now is explicit: double-check all details, particularly concerning account linkages, to successfully receive what you’re owed.
This Monday, the government isn’t just about pushing buttons—it’s about building bonds. With PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra at the helm, the initiative starts with more than just symbolic gestures; she’s set to video-call recipients, providing a personal touch that complements the campaign’s wider reach. Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub emphasized the administration’s commitment to smoothing the registration wavelength, particularly for those struggling without smartphones.
Looking forward, a second layer of this initiative involves a digital wallet dream in the making. Mr. Julapun’s comments reveal an exciting stage of progress in the app’s development, due for system testing in the subsequent two months. With plans to roll out assistance to citizens aged 16-59 by offering cash through this fluent and flexible channel between March and April, the ministers display a proactive approach to welfare distribution.
The expansiveness of this welfare scheme reflects a calculated yet compassionate move to ensure economic relief reaches all corners of society. As the digital wallet paves the path towards a seamless financial support system, there’s nothing quite like a government initiative that adds a touch of human warmth to technological advancement.
It’s great to see support heading to the elderly, but shouldn’t we be asking how this is being funded? More taxes?
Typical! Always worried about the money instead of the people who need it.
I just want to ensure it’s sustainable. Band-aid solutions aren’t enough.
Valid point, Sarah. Long-term plans need a solid foundation.
Linking IDs to PromptPay is a step forward, but what about privacy concerns? Who ensures this doesn’t get misused?
Why exclude previous beneficiaries? They might still need the money!
Perhaps they aim to spread the resources to others in need, but I see your point.
Sounds like a lot of bureaucracy for poor old grannies to handle. Not everyone is tech-savvy!
True, Joe, but that’s why there are multiple distribution dates. More time to get it right.
Hope they have someone to help, ASAP! Could be a headache.
This app development sounds intriguing. I wonder how secure the digital wallet will be.
What about those without smartphones? They seem to be left behind in this digital plan.
Old problems with new tech! A classic issue.
Giving 10,000 baht is a start, but it’s not enough to make a real difference in these seniors’ lives permanently.
Video calls from PM sounds more like a PR stunt than actually aiding the elderly. What’s your thought everyone?
Politics as usual, Jerry. It’s all about appearances.
Gotta disagree here. Engagement is always better than being distant.
This is a positive move, but it could burden the working population supporting these payouts.
Exactly, that’s my concern as well. Responsible funding is crucial.
Think they should focus on job creation or subsidized healthcare, not cash handouts.
Agreed, that might provide longer-lasting benefits.
Could be a mix of both: the immediate need fulfilled now, then long-term measures.
Let’s not forget those who fall just out of eligibility. They suffer too.
Indeed, Greg. There’s always those missed gaps.
Hopefully, the digital wallet system is efficient. Implementation is key here.
As long as they do proper testing, it should work fine.
I feel uneasy about this initiative altogether. Focus should ideally be on economic stability not handouts.
It’s good relief in these times, but by setting up better retirement funds, we’d might not need such aids.
Hope the government evaluates this phase to address any persisting issues from the last one.
While I’m all for helping elders, the dependency on digital means might be overwhelming for some.