Bangkok: The government is progressing with efforts to "restore land rights and preserve forests" covering over 12.5 million rai across 66 provinces. The initiative has provided over 1.2 million people with legal rights, aiming to resolve forestry issues that have been pending for over 65 years.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, emphasized the government's focus on equitable land ownership distribution and resolving issues related to residence and livelihood on state land. This initiative is spearheaded by the National Land Policy Committee (NLPC) under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsi and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin. The aim is to allow people to legally reside and cultivate land while conserving forest resources.
The government has successfully allocated over 12.5 million rai of land for farming in national forest reserves as of January 30, 2026, benefiting more than 1.2 million people across 66 provinces and 19,576 villages. Beneficiaries receive digital documents certifying their ownership, enabling them to farm, access government services, and improve their quality of life securely. For instance, in Uttaradit province, farmers have received digital land use certificates, permitting them to pursue their livelihoods without the concern of illegal land use.
Securing land rights offers economic advantages for farmers. Durian farmers, for example, can obtain Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, proving their produce comes from legally owned land. This certification allows them to sell produce at higher prices and reach international markets. In 2025, 190 durian farmers in the "Pa Nan Kok" National Forest Reserve in Uttaradit's Lablae District received GAP certification, generating over 180 million baht in revenue from sales and exports, enhancing farmers' incomes and quality of life.
The government continues to address land ownership issues, particularly in "permanent forest areas," a concern unresolved for over 65 years. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is expediting measures following the Prime Minister's instructions, proposing a framework for residence and farming in these areas, covering over 2.2 million rai and expected to benefit more than 200,000 people. This step aims to alleviate hardships while ensuring sustainable forest preservation.
Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, stated that obtaining land rights aids not only in occupations and income but also in accessing basic public utilities such as electricity, water systems, and government services, thereby improving the quality of life in remote areas.
Ms. Lalida affirmed the government's commitment to addressing agricultural land issues, adhering to the principle of 'People can live, forests can survive,' ensuring people have secure livelihoods and sustainable incomes while preserving natural resources for future generations.