BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), led by Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, has partnered with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to provide free high-speed internet access to 1.1 million people with disabilities across Thailand. Running from February 1 to July 31, 2025, the program improves digital access for individuals facing economic hardship, allowing them to connect to education, healthcare, and essential government services.
Eligible individuals will receive unlimited internet access at a minimum speed of 20 Mbps for six months. To qualify, applicants must hold a Disability Identification Card registered with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP) and possess a State Welfare Card. The program covers seven disability categories, including visual, hearing, physical, intellectual, psychosocial, learning disabilities, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Legal guardians may apply on behalf of those with intellectual disabilities, learning impairments, or autism.
NBTC will fund mobile internet packages at 107 baht per person per month, while Bangkok Telling Co., Ltd. will provide the service using the National Telecom Public Company Limited (NT) network. The company will also establish a dedicated call center and LINE support service to assist users. Accessible instructional videos with audio, subtitles, and sign language interpretation will be available to ensure ease of use.
MSDHS and DEP will oversee eligibility verification, outreach efforts, and program monitoring, while NBTC will manage SIM card distribution and public Internet center operations. Each eligible person can register for one internet package, with the option to use an existing mobile number or receive a new SIM card.
For inquiries regarding SIM distribution, activation, and program details, individuals and caregivers can contact NBTC Hotline: 1200 (toll-free) or LINE ID: @netfree_infinite. (NNT)
