PM’s land redistribution gift: Thai farmers in Udon Thani get a new year surprise
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday announced the redistribution of over 9,276 rai of army-owned land in Udon Thani to landless farmers, as a new year gift. This significant move is part of the Nong Wua So development model aimed at alleviating poverty and landlessness issues among farmers.
The Thai prime minister lauded the army’s decision to repurpose their surplus land for the benefit of those in need. The land redistribution initiative was conceptualised during the early days of his tenure, to empower recipients with knowledge of land development and farming for income generation, thereby boosting the country’s strength, revealed the Bangkok-born PM.
“It’s a New Year gift to the people from the armed forces. It’s welcoming that the forces have joined in the push to advance the country’s progress.”
The land handover is set to occur on December 25.
The Royal Irrigation Department is responsible for providing water for farming on the allocated lands. These lands were previously under the control of the 2nd Army Area and are now being repurposed for agricultural activities under the development model, reported Bangkok Post.
This land redistribution announcement was made after a meeting at the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) headquarters, where the 61 year old Thai PM also serves as the director. He firmly dismissed rumours of Isoc’s dissolution, sparked by speculation from individuals including Adisorn Piengkes, a Pheu Thai list-MP who serves as the chief government whip.
Adisorn had earlier suggested disbanding the ISOC, expressing concern over military interference in the operations of other state organisations and potential threats to democracy. However, PM Srettha clarified the news.
“Dissolving the ISOC? No, that has never crossed this government’s mind.”
The Thai government has committed to providing low-interest loans of up to 150,000 baht to Thai workers who were compelled to return from Israel because of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Palestine. Read more HERE.
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