Bangkok: The Prime Minister has directed the Ministry of Interior to prepare a budget to provide relief for those affected by the Thai-Cambodian border clashes. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul instructed the Ministry of Interior to allocate compensation funds to citizens impacted by the ongoing border conflict. Additionally, he urged ministers to take time off from their official duties to visit and support shelters housing evacuees.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Akrasakulkiat, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, shared details following a Cabinet meeting. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also serves as the Minister of Interior, informed the Cabinet of recent statements by the National Security Council (NSC). The government plans to act in accordance with the NSC's resolutions, conducting military operations as necessary depending on the evolving circumstances.
The Prime Minister has emphasized the importance of providing optimal care for evacuees in shelters, ensuring their access to essential resources such as food, water, safety, medical care, and suitable living conditions. Currently, Mr. Chaiyanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Mr. Sakda Wichiansilp, Deputy Minister of Interior, and Lt. Gen. Adul Boonthamcharoen, Deputy Minister of Defence, are actively managing the situation on the ground.
Mr. Siripong further noted that the Prime Minister has tasked the Ministry of Interior and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) with preparing the budget for compensating evacuees. This preparation is in line with the original criteria to ensure a prompt and efficient transfer of funds.
The Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been appointed as the primary sources for disseminating information related to the situation, ensuring accuracy and consistency in communication.
In addition, the Prime Minister has requested all Cabinet members to visit and offer support to the evacuees along the border whenever possible.
The Prime Minister also addressed compensation for those affected by recent floods in the South. He acknowledged delays in compensation payments for individuals who registered online and instructed the DDPM to expedite the resolution process to facilitate timely distribution of funds.
With regard to the new state welfare cards, registration and eligibility verification are slated to begin in early January 2026. The Prime Minister expressed concerns about the fairness of the eligibility criteria for the welfare program, following numerous public complaints. The criteria, which previously centered on income and assets, have been criticized for unfairness. Consequently, the Prime Minister has directed the Ministry of Finance and related agencies to review the criteria to ensure equitable assessment for the upcoming welfare card eligibility.