BANGKOK, Jan 27 (TNA) – Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra launched the second phase of a cash handout program for senior citizens on Monday, distributing 10,000 baht ($290) to over 3 million people aged 60 and above in a bid to stimulate the economy. The Prime Minister presided over the launch event at Government House, accompanied by deputy prime ministers and cabinet members. She emphasized the government’s focus on economic stimulus measures to improve people’s livelihoods.
“The government emphasizes that economic stimulus is essential and has been continuously implementing such measures,” Paetongtarn said. “Most of the policies implemented are economic stimulus policies to ensure that people have enough to eat and use.”
She highlighted the success of the first phase, which provided 10,000 baht to 14.45 million recipients of state welfare cards and people with disabilities. This second phase focuses on senior citizens, injecting 30 billion baht into the economy.
“I hope this amount of money will help people alleviate hardship and ease various burdens, and can be used to further various aspects of their lives.” She also acknowledged this policy was highly anticipated by the public.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said the disbursement aims to boost spending during the upcoming Lunar New Year period. He estimated the injection could add 0.1% to the country’s GDP.
Across the country, scenes of elderly citizens withdrawing cash from ATMs were reported. Officials were on hand to assist those who had not yet linked their bank accounts to the PromptPay system, a mobile payment platform used for the disbursement, ensuring they could receive the funds in the next round on February 28, 2025.
The government also announced the third phase of the 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme, targeting 160 billion baht for the remaining working-age population, is expected to begin around April-May 2025. -819 (TNA)
