Picture this: eager faces lining up in front of gleaming ATMs, ready to receive their much-anticipated 10,000-baht cash handout from the government. The atmosphere buzzes with a mix of relief and hope, mirrored in the faces of those gathering outside a branch of the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives in Buri Ram. Captured in a photograph by Surachai Piragsa, this scene tells only a part of the unfolding drama.
Against this backdrop, anti-drunk driving campaigners are voicing their concerns. They’re urging recipients to channel this windfall thoughtfully, steering well clear of alcohol. “Invest in necessities or even smart investments,” pleads Phattarabhandhu Krissana, the passionate chairman of the Network of Victims Against Drunk Driving. His plea is poignant: avoid the slippery path of alcohol consumption which could lead to tragic accidents and lasting disabilities.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation, Phattarabhandhu advocates a sensible allocation of funds. How about using part of the handout to pay vehicle taxes? It’s a helpful strategy as these taxes fund protections for accident victims—a thought steeped in both responsibility and foresight. Phattarabhandhu’s voice resonates loud and clear as he recounts how members of their 15,000-strong network have already begun benefiting from the first-round disbursements by the government.
The government’s ambition is bold, aiming to distribute these 10,000-baht cash payments to 12.4 million state welfare cardholders and 2.1 million disability cardholders. Vulnerable groups are at the forefront, with the last batch of beneficiaries set to receive their payments this coming Monday—a lifeline during these trying economic times.
However, what began as an inclusive “digital wallet” stimulus programme with aims to cover 45 million Thais aged 16 and over, now faces uncertainty. Mounting concerns over funding loom large. As officials contemplate subsequent rounds next year, one thing is becoming clear—the initial generous handouts may dwindle to just 5,000 baht per person in the second phase.
A government source, preferring anonymity, reveals that such a reduction is being considered. The rationale? The need to prioritize funds for the rehabilitation of the victims of widespread flooding—a dire necessity. In fact, from the 2025 fiscal budget, an estimated 152.7 billion baht has been earmarked for the handout scheme. However, a portion of these funds might need to be redirected to the central fund addressing flood victim relief.
Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul looks at the sharp increase in cash withdrawals following the scheme’s rollout as a telling sign. It’s a clear indicator that many recipients are grappling with financial hardships, a situation where this influx of cash is likely to stimulate economic activity, albeit modestly.
Yet, critics like Sirikanya Tansakun, an MP from the opposition People’s Party, are skeptical. She highlights the stark reality that reducing the handout size dramatically—from an envisioned 500 billion baht to a mere 145 billion—won’t suffice to boost GDP as initially hoped. “The economic uplift many had banked on feels unlikely,” she notes, pointing out the complaints from business operators lamenting sluggish business despite the handouts.
It’s a complex weave of hope, caution, and pressing need. The very fabric of this economic stimulus hinges on every baht either bringing hope or barely stemming desperation. The government’s balancing act continues, and for thousands, the story is far from over.
This handout is a band-aid solution. It won’t fix the systemic issues driving people to poverty.
Maybe, but it’s better than nothing. People need immediate help right now.
I get that, but we need sustainable solutions, not just temporary relief.
Agreed. Inflation is just going to eat this handout away in no time.
Agreed, Joe! But what’s the alternative? We can’t wait forever for systematic change.
Using the money wisely is key. Invest in essentials, not alcohol!
Easier said than done. When you’re desperate, sometimes you can’t make the best choices.
True, but that’s why education on how to use these funds is critical.
I hope recipients use the money to pay off debts. That would be a smart move.
Yep, but what if their debts are so high that 10,000 baht barely makes a dent?
Anything helps, Elaine. A small reduction in debt can still provide some relief.
10,000 baht isn’t enough to pull anyone out of real financial hardship.
If the government can’t sustain the handout, what’s the point of starting it?
I think it’s bold and necessary. A lot of people are struggling.
I got my handout and I’m using it for my kids’ school supplies. It’s a big help.
What about the 5,000 baht in the second phase? That’s nearly useless in today’s economy.
5,000 baht is just an insult. They need to rethink this entire policy.
Flood victims need help too. Sometimes sacrifices need to be made.
The balance between handouts and flood relief is tricky, but they both need attention.
Absolutely, the government needs a comprehensive plan.
Yeah, but easier said than done. We’re talking about billions in needed funds!
Reducing the handout size won’t significantly boost GDP. It’s just a political maneuver.
It’s better than nothing! Small businesses might still benefit.
Small stimulus won’t prop up the economy long-term. Structural reforms are a must.
Even modest spending can generate some economic activity. Give it a chance.
I agree. Every little bit helps, especially in rural areas.
I honestly think they should have focused on job creation instead of handouts.
Elaine, job creation takes time. People need help immediately!
Job creation would provide a longer-term solution, but it’s true, handouts provide instant relief.
Perhaps a mix of both approaches would be most effective.
What about corruption? How do we ensure the money goes to the people who need it most?
Excellent point, Linda. Transparency and accountability are essential.
There’s always a risk of corruption, but that shouldn’t stop efforts to help people.
Agreed. The government needs strict measures to prevent misuse.
This handout scheme seems like it’s turning into another political battleground. Just help the people.