BANGKOK, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's government launched its cash stimulus scheme worth 145.5 billion baht (about 4.45 billion U.S. dollars) on Wednesday, aiming to boost economic activity among underprivileged groups across the Southeast Asian country.
This initial phase of the program will distribute 10,000 baht (about 305 dollars) each to state welfare card holders and individuals with disabilities as part of the government's broader plan to revitalize the kingdom's sluggish economy, said Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Around 14.55 million Thais will receive the payout directly to their bank accounts by the end of this month, creating the first major "economic whirlwind" as the government reaffirmed its commitment to creating opportunities and improving the livelihoods of low-income earners, Paetongtarn said at the launching ceremony.
She said the cash handout comes without spending conditions, allowing recipients to use the funds as needed, whether for daily expenses or small business investments.■
