Bangkok: New criteria for welfare cards have been clarified by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapha, following criticism that individuals whose children use their names for tax deductions would be disqualified. The clarification emphasizes that the welfare card is intended for the most needy group.
According to Thai News Agency, Ekniti addressed the controversy regarding the state welfare card's eligibility criteria. He explained that the criteria aim to ensure that only those genuinely in need receive the state welfare card. Concerns had been raised about individuals who might not truly require assistance obtaining the card, prompting the Ministry of Finance to review and establish various criteria to accurately assess eligibility.
Mr. Ekniti stressed that recipients of welfare cards must be among the most affected individuals to qualify for the program. The Ministry of Finance has already announced the criteria to ensure that the welfare card is distributed to those who genuinely need support.