Bangkok: Professor Piyawat Pinprachasarn from the Faculty of Business Administration at Ramkhamhaeng University has highlighted the necessity of reviewing the state welfare card system, emphasizing the importance of preserving Thailand's financial stability in the long term. According to Thai News Agency, Professor Piyawat clarified that the intent behind revising the welfare card criteria is not to strip benefits from the impoverished but rather to enhance the system's sustainability and efficiency in aiding those most in need.
Professor Piyawat explained that the state welfare card policy currently allocates approximately 50-70 billion baht annually to support low-income individuals. He stressed that while the principle of providing welfare to vulnerable groups is essential, the system has historically lacked rigorous review processes, leading to misallocation of resources. This has resulted in cases where ineligible individuals continue to receive benefits, while those truly in need are left without adequate support.
The professor pointed out that without regular audits and database updates, taxpayer money could be misused, with resources directed towards those who do not require assistance. Regular reviews, he argued, are necessary to ensure that welfare benefits reach the intended recipients and to optimize the use of government funds.
As Thailand approaches a period characterized by an aging populace, the country will face increased expenditures on public health, medical care, pensions, elderly care, and social services. Concurrently, investments in education, workforce skills development, AI technology, and infrastructure are crucial for enhancing national competitiveness. Professor Piyawat warned that without effective welfare system screening, the country might struggle to allocate funds for these future challenges.
He emphasized that many countries routinely review their welfare systems to ensure benefits reach those who need them most, thereby maintaining sustainability. Accurate recipient screening could allow the remaining budget to be redirected towards developing essential programs, such as elderly care, public health improvements, and educational opportunities for vulnerable groups.
Professor Piyawat acknowledged that reforms often entail political costs and may attract short-term criticism. Nonetheless, he argued for the urgency of implementing these changes to prevent escalating fiscal burdens that could impede the state's capacity to support its citizens. Despite potential resistance, he views these reforms as necessary for maintaining Thailand's fiscal health and ensuring the long-term viability of its welfare system.