BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul launched the Disaster Insurance for the People program on October 1, providing government-funded coverage for 30 million households nationwide against floods, windstorms, and earthquakes. Coverage runs through September 30, 2027, with the policy to be renewed annually.
Residential property is covered for up to 100,000 baht per incident per household. Flood damage carries an initial payment of 10,000 baht, with additional compensation of up to 90,000 baht, while windstorm and earthquake damage each provide an initial 5,000 baht and up to 95,000 baht in additional compensation. Households that are surrounded by floodwater and unable to live normally for more than 7 consecutive days are eligible for 10,000 baht per incident. Accident-related life coverage is also provided at 2 million baht per person.
Anutin instructed provincial governors, district chiefs, local administrative organizations, and community-level officials to fully understand the policy and clearly explain coverage and eligibility to residents. Information should be communicated in simple, practical terms so households understand their rights and the assistance available after a covered disaster. The insurance provides affected households with a defined verification and claims process, in addition to existing disaster assistance. The government expects the program to speed up compensation, reduce the financial impact of natural disasters, and help families repair their homes and restore their livelihoods. (NNT)
