Only 200,000 of 1 Million Poor Card Applicants Approved, Ministry Awaits Clarity
Only 200,000 of one million poor card applicants were approved by Thailand's Social Development Ministry, which is investigating the high rejection rate and awaiting cabinet guidance on next steps. Rejected applicants, particularly seniors
Social Development Minister Nikhom Somklaeng announced at Government House on July 21 that his ministry submitted 1 million names for state welfare card eligibility review but only approximately 200,000 passed the criteria. He said the ministry must investigate why so many applicants were rejected and will coordinate with the Interior Ministry while awaiting cabinet guidance on how to proceed. Ministry officials are on standby to compile lists compiled with local authorities for further processing, and rejected applicants—especially persons with disabilities and the elderly—can file appeals if they prepare the required documents and evidence. Somklaeng also noted that on July 24–25, the Social Development Ministry will co-host a Universal Design festival with the Association of Persons with Disabilities of Thailand and Thammasat University at Impact Muang Thong Thani, with Deputy Prime Minister Yuthasak Sasindhorn serving as opening guest.
