A recent opinion survey conductedthe National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) has revealed mixed sentiments among Thais regarding the government’s plan to fund the Digital Wallet Scheme with a 500-billion-baht loan. While a slight majority still supports the policy, most respondents disagreed with the loan.

The survey, conducted between November 13-16, involved 1,310 participants aged 18 and above, representing various educational backgrounds, income levels, and occupations across the nation. The poll was conducted after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin provided detailed information about the program on November 10.

The digital Wallet Scheme aims to provide a 10,000-baht handout to Thais aged 16 and older who earn less than 70,000 baht per month and/or have under 500,000 baht in bank deposits. Originally, it was estimated that 56 million people would be eligible for the handout; however, based on revised criteria, the number has decreased to 50 million.

In terms of the 500-billion-baht loan, 50.69% of respondents strongly disagreed, and an additional 18.7% disagreed with the government’s financing approach. On the other hand, 14.89% moderately agreed, while 13.35% strongly agreed with the loan. A small percentage, 2.3%, either did not know or were not interested.

When asked about their overall stance on the scheme after listening to Prime Minister Srettha’s remarks, 29.9% of participants strongly disagreed, 25.9% strongly agreed, 25.1% moderately agreed, and 18.2% disagreed. Again, a small fraction, 0.7%, either did not know or were not interested.

The survey also examined participants’ eligibility for the handout, with 79.85% stating they were eligible, 11.6% unsure, and 8.4% believing they were not eligible.

While the Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed his support for the handouts, he emphasized the need for the policy to comply with the law. There have also been questions raised regarding the level of coalition support for the bill.

In conclusion, the Nida survey indicates a divided opinion among Thais on the government’s plan to fund the Digital Wallet scheme. While some are in favor of the policy, a majority disagrees with the 500-billion-baht loan. With ongoing discussions and debates, the future of the digital wallet scheme and its financing remains uncertain.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the digital wallet scheme?

The digital wallet scheme is a government initiative in Thailand that aims to provide a 10,000-baht handout to eligible individuals.

2. Who is eligible for the handout?

Thais aged 16 and older who earn less than 70,000 baht per month and/or have under 500,000 baht in bank deposits are eligible for the handout.

3. How many people are estimated to be eligible for the handout?

Initially, it was estimated that 56 million people would be eligible for the handout, but based on revised criteria, the number has decreased to 50 million.

4. What is the public opinion on the government’s financing approach?

According to the Nida survey, most respondents disagreed with the government’s plan to fund the digital wallet scheme with a 500-billion-baht loan.

5. Is there consensus within the government regarding the handouts?

While the Interior Minister expressed support for the handouts, questions have been raised about the extent of coalition support for the bill.

Thais Divided on Government’s Plan to Fund Digital Wallet Scheme, Survey Finds .

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