Bangkok: The Ministry of Interior has introduced a One-Stop Service at district offices across the nation to streamline the appeals process for citizens challenging their eligibility for state welfare benefits. The initiative aims to address public concerns over the accuracy of welfare card eligibility assessments.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Phonphir Suwannachavi, Deputy Minister of Interior, announced the launch alongside Mr. Siriphong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr. Narucha Khosasilvilai, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, and Mr. Vinit Visetsuwannapoom, Director of the Fiscal Policy Office. During the press conference, Pol. Lt. Gen. Phonphir explained that welfare card eligibility is reviewed biennially due to complaints about ineligible individuals receiving aid. This issue has drawn the attention of the Prime Minister, prompting a reevaluation of registration processes to better align with citizens' realities.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the recent citizen registration survey utilized data from the Ministry of Interior in conjunction with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Names were verified using information from the Department of Provincial Administration and the Fiscal Policy Office. The Ministry aims to assist citizens with limited internet access or travel challenges by integrating databases with the Ministry of Transport and deploying district support teams to visit homes. Collected data will be relayed to the Ministry of Finance, enabling citizens unaware of previous employer payments to file appeals.
The proposal to extend the appeal deadline to September 20th, beyond the original July end-date, will be presented at a Cabinet meeting. The Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration disclosed that district offices nationwide are coordinating to inform the public about the process, including those not yet approved for benefits. Coordination centers have been set up to support government services, allowing individuals to file reconsideration requests at any district office. For those unable to travel, officials will visit local areas to assist with applications, with schedules and updates communicated through local leaders. Mr. Narucha emphasized that officers are instructed to clarify the process and personally address any issues or misunderstandings.