Nikon, Minister of Social Development and Human Security, is awaiting the Cabinet's decision to clarify the criteria for the state welfare card. He revealed that only 200,000 vulnerable individuals under the ministry met the criteria out of 1 million applicants.
At 09:35 on 21 July 2026 at Government House, Nikon Somklang, Minister of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), stated regarding the welfare card survey overseen by the ministry that 1 million names were submitted, but only about 200,000 met the criteria. He said it is necessary to investigate why some were excluded. The ministry will collaborate with the Ministry of Interior and await details from today's Cabinet meeting on how to manage the situation. MSDHS staff are on standby to compile lists coordinated with local authorities to proceed according to the criteria but must await further discussion. He encouraged disabled and elderly individuals to file appeals as per the procedures, preparing their information and evidence.
Nikon revealed that on 24-25 July, the MSDHS will join the Association of Disabled Persons of Thailand and Thammasat University to hold the Universal Design (UD) Expo at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yotsanan Wongsawat will preside over the opening. The event gathers innovations suitable for all ages, especially the elderly and disabled, including designs adapted for all life stages and approaches to legal amendments to enable practical implementation. This marks the beginning of UD efforts. The Universal Design Act requires urgent discussion to ensure effective application and raise public awareness about the benefits of UD across all age groups by fostering community understanding.