UBON RATCHATHANI, Thailand – Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Suksomrauy Wantaneeyakul visited Ubon Ratchathani province on July 5, 2026, to review the operations of village and urban community funds that support the grassroots economy. The Minister visited the Ban Kham Khrang Village Fund in Det Udom district to assess progress and gather feedback from the fund’s committee to further improve the program. She was welcomed by Ubon Ratchathani Governor Narong Thepsena, local Members of Parliament, district officials, and community members.
The Minister stated that the government is advancing the Thais Help Thais support project along with the third phase of village fund capital enhancement, known as the second million-baht fund. These measures aim to expand access to formal funding, reduce reliance on informal debt, and improve liquidity for households and community workers. The Minister explained that in 2026, village fund members will pay only half the interest on eligible loans, with the government covering the remaining amount in accordance with project criteria. This policy aims to reduce household expenses, support employment opportunities, increase income, and improve quality of life during ongoing economic challenges.
The delegation also visited the Ban Kham Khrang Village Fund shop, a local model for fund management that circulates income within the community. The Minister concluded the visit by encouraging the fund’s committee to maintain transparency and good governance, ensuring the Village Fund remains essential for fostering a self-reliant and resilient grassroots economy. (NNT)
