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Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed speculation that he may serve as interim Prime Minister amid Thailand’s ongoing political crisis. He stated that no formal discussions have taken place within the party and emphasised that all leadership decisions must follow constitutional and parliamentary procedures. Anutin reaffirmed that Thailand still has a Prime Minister, albeit temporarily suspended, and urged the public not to be swayed by rumours or online clips. He plans to meet opposition leader Natthapong to address further developments.

Thailand is set to tighten its cannabis laws by requiring all dispensaries to register as medical clinics or hospitals to stay legal. A new regulation—expected within three months—will mandate that licensed medical professionals oversee sales and that cannabis be dispensed only with a prescription. With 12,000 shop licences up for renewal in November, non-compliant dispensaries face closure, particularly those catering to recreational use. The move marks a sharp policy reversal, with cannabis now limited strictly to medical purposes.

A Thai-made sapodilla ice cream has won top honours at the 2025 Gourmand Awards in Lisbon, earning international recognition for Thailand’s culinary innovation. Created by former Ban Mai mayor Watsarapong Radomsitthipat, the “100-Year Sapodilla Ice Cream” was developed to add value to the underused fruit and support struggling local farmers in Ayutthaya. The award aligns with Thailand’s Soft Power strategy and highlights how grassroots products can shine globally. The dessert is now a tourist favourite and available at Thong Keeb Ma Café in Ban Mai.

Pattaya has launched a tourism push in Japan with the “Pattaya Variety Roadshow to Japan 2025” in Osaka, aiming to attract more Japanese travellers. Led by local officials and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the event showcased Pattaya’s attractions, including an on-site cabaret show, and facilitated business talks with Japanese tour operators. With Japanese arrivals to Thailand up 10% this year and projections topping 1.1 million by year’s end, the campaign supports Pattaya’s broader “Better Pattaya” vision—positioning the city as a smart, sustainable, and high-quality global destination.

Russian MMA fighter Ivan Parshikov’s comeback win at Thailand’s Weed Boxing Championship took a shocking turn—literally—when he grabbed a miswired light during his post-fight celebration and suffered an electric shock. Footage of the moment, which showed him collapsing in the ring, went viral. Fortunately, Parshikov escaped serious injury and later joked about the incident on Instagram. The event sparked safety concerns over the venue’s wiring and the unconventional cannabis-themed boxing format. Despite the drama, Parshikov’s resilience shone through, reinforcing his place in the MMA spotlight.

Thailand is tightening cannabis laws, requiring dispensaries to register as medical clinics. Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed interim PM rumours amid political uncertainty. Pattaya is promoting itself in Japan through the Osaka roadshow, while safety concerns arose after a Russian MMA fighter was electrocuted during a Weed Boxing Championship. A Thai sapodilla ice cream won top honours at the 2025 Gourmand Awards. Ten Thai nationals escaped a scam job in Cambodia by fleeing across rooftops. In Kashmir, Hindu pilgrims began the Amarnath journey under tight security. A Bali ferry disaster left six dead and 29 missing. Donald Trump announced a new trade deal with Vietnam, and in Chiang Mai, police arrested a man for riding a motorbike naked with sex toys attached. Thai cannabis dispensaries must become medical clinics to stay legal Thailand has reversed its liberal cannabis policy: under a new draft regulation by the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, all cannabis dispensaries must now register as medical clinics with licensed professionals on-site and only dispense via prescription, or risk losing their legal status—affecting around 18,000 shops with 12,000 licenses due for renewal this November. This move marks a decisive shift from the country’s brief era of recreational cannabis freedom, realigning the market to strictly medical use following the June reclassification of cannabis as a controlled herb. Anutin Denies Interim PM Discussions Amid Political Speculation Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, has publicly denied any discussions or intentions to serve as interim prime minister amid Thailand’s ongoing political turmoil, stating that no formal talks have taken place and any decision must follow constitutional and parliamentary procedures. He emphasized that the country still officially has a prime minister, and that any future moves—like forming an interim government—will be handled through proper legislative channels. Pattaya targets Japan: Roadshow in Osaka aims to boost tourism Pattaya officials, including the city and Chon Buri representatives alongside the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Osaka Office, held the “Pattaya Variety Roadshow to Japan 2025” in Osaka on July 2 to promote the city’s attractions through presentations, B2B meetings, and a cabaret performance aimed at Japanese tour operators. With over 470,000 Japanese visitors to Thailand so far in 2025 (a 10% year-on-year increase) and expectations of surpassing 1.1 million by year’s end, Pattaya is leveraging these efforts to align with its “Better Pattaya” vision as a smart, MICE, sports, and sustainable tourism hub. Russian MMA Fighter's Electrifying Victory in Thailand Goes Viral Russian MMA fighter Ivan Parshikov electrified viewers at Thailand’s “Weed Boxing Championship” when, during his victory celebration, he accidentally grabbed a miswired ringside light amid standing water—receiving a sudden electric shock visible in viral footage. Despite the dramatic scare and initial fears, he swiftly recovered with no serious injuries, joking about the incident and underscoring ongoing concerns about safety at unconventional cannabis-combat events. Thai sapodilla ice cream scoops top prize at Gourmand Awards 2025 The award-winning "100-Year Sapodilla Ice Cream" crafted by Watsarapong Radomsitthipat from Ayutthaya secured the top honor in the Ice Cream category at the prestigious Gourmand Awards 2025 held in Lisbon, celebrating an OTOP innovation that elevates an underutilized fruit to the global culinary stage. Developed to revive sapodilla farming in Ban Mai and transform the fruit’s economic value, the ice cream now embodies Thailand’s soft power strategy and highlights the potential of community-driven food products. Unpaid Thais flee Cambodia across rooftops into Thailand Ten Thai workers illegally taken to Phnom Penh for unpaid construction—and reportedly held in a scam call centre—escaped across rooftops near Poipet after their employer failed to pay them and traffickers demanded 3,000 baht to return them home, according to the Burapa Task Force in Sa Kaeo province. They managed to re-enter Thailand via a rooftop at Ban Khlong Luek checkpoint and are now in custody at Khlong Luek police station, where they’ll receive assistance and face legal processing. In contested Kashmir, Hindus begin month-long pilgrimage to cave shrine under heavy guard Hindu pilgrims have begun the month-long annual Amarnath Yatra in contested Kashmir, trekking to the sacred ice‑lingam cave shrine under the protection of around 45,000 Indian security personnel, with heavy surveillance, vehicle convoys, and fortified camps ensuring safety after a deadly attack in April 2025. Despite recent regional tensions and security challenges, devotees expressed confidence—saying the “army is standing guard everywhere”—as the pilgrimage proceeds with tight control and heightened vigilance. Indonesia rescuers searching for 29 missing people after ferry sinks near Bali Two ferries collided and sank in Bali's Mahakan River near Seririt village on July 3, injuring at least 10 people, mostly local residents, while rescuing authorities worked to pull passengers to safety and salvage the vessels. The incident occurred amid heavy fog and currents, and investigations are underway to determine the cause and ensure improved safety measures. Trump announces trade deal with Vietnam The U.S. under the Trump administration has agreed with Vietnam to impose 20% tariffs on Vietnamese imports—significantly lower than an earlier proposal of 46%, with a 40% rate set for goods transshipped through Vietnam from third countries. The deal is seen as a bilateral effort to rebalance trade, marking a key shift in U.S.–Vietnam economic relations. Chiang Mai Man Arrested for Bizarre Nude Motorbike Ride A 49-year-old man in Chiang Mai’s San Sai district was arrested after riding his motorbike naked through a village during a nighttime downpour, with three giant dildos strapped to the vehicle—sparking panic among residents when the viral footage emerged. The rider admitted he’d been engaging in this bizarre behavior regularly during rainstorms for six years, leading to charges of public indecency and possession of obscene items.

Foreigners can legally play—and win—the Thai lottery by purchasing tickets from licensed vendors. Draws are held on the 1st and 16th of each month, with prizes ranging from 2,000 to 6 million baht. A single ticket costs 80 baht and is sold in pairs. Winners must claim prizes within two years, using a passport or government-issued ID. Taxes and stamp duties apply, and major prizes must be claimed in Bangkok. While winnings can be taken abroad, players should check local tax rules. The Thai lottery offers big rewards—but officials urge responsible play.

A British mother is warning travellers after her 17-year-old daughter contracted scrub typhus following a trip across Thailand. Initially misdiagnosed with dental issues, the teen’s symptoms escalated to jaundice, swollen lymph nodes, and suspected liver failure before scrub typhus was identified. Caused by the Orientia tsutsugamushi bacterium, the illness can be fatal if untreated. The mother is urging travellers, especially to northern regions like Chiang Mai, to be vigilant about symptoms and inform doctors of recent travel. With no vaccine available, early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics like doxycycline are vital.

A Thai woman, known only as K, is at the centre of a scandal involving romantic ties with four senior monks, including the former abbot of Bangkok’s Tri Thotsathep Temple. The abbot, Arch, reportedly had a three-year affair with her before distancing himself. In response, K allegedly faked a pregnancy and tried to extort 7.8 million baht. When he refused, she leaked private materials, triggering a police investigation. Arch quietly left the monkhood amid the fallout. Authorities are also probing possible misuse of temple funds linked to the scandal.

A university student in Bangkok survived a terrifying collision after being hit by a speeding bus while using a zebra crossing near Sukhothai Road. Surveillance footage of the June 26 incident went viral, sparking public outrage over the driver’s recklessness. The student was thrown several metres but is now recovering in hospital. Netizens accused the driver of travelling against traffic flow and called for stricter pedestrian protections. The student later reassured the public via Facebook, while calls grow for improved road safety enforcement and accountability for the driver.

Thai immigration has denied claims by British teen Bella Culley that she was tortured and forced to smuggle drugs out of Thailand. Authorities released CCTV footage showing her passing through Suvarnabhumi Airport normally on May 10, without seeking help. Culley, who is facing trial in Georgia after being caught with 14kg of cannabis products, claimed in court she was coerced in Thailand. Thai officials say her allegations are unfounded and likely aimed at reducing her sentence. She will now be listed as a prohibited person in Thailand due to her drug trafficking charges.

Two armed assailants opened fire on the Pha Lado Forest Protection Unit in Mae Tuen Wildlife Sanctuary, Tak province, in what authorities suspect was an attack by illegal rosewood loggers. Rangers returned warning shots, forcing the attackers to flee on a motorcycle. Police found bullet damage, shotgun shells, and other evidence at the scene. The natural resources minister has ordered an urgent investigation, calling the attack a serious threat to law enforcement. Officials praised the rangers’ bravery and stressed the need for heightened security as the manhunt intensifies.

In Thailand, a British teen’s brush with a life-threatening illness and a shocking wildlife station attack highlight the importance of traveler awareness and environmental enforcement. Meanwhile, scandals involving senior monks, a viral pedestrian accident, and the Thai lottery’s accessibility to foreigners capture public attention. Beyond Thailand, we look at North Korea’s growing military support for Russia, Indonesia’s potential extradition agreement with Moscow, Ho Chi Minh City’s metro expansion, and the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte. Finally, Thai officials have denied a British teen’s claims of being forced into drug trafficking, adding another layer to this complex international case. Win Big in Thailand: Foreigners Welcome to Try Their Luck in the Lottery Foreigners are legally allowed to buy Thai Government Lottery tickets—sold every 1st and 16th of the month for 80 baht each—with 14,168 prizes totaling 48 million baht, including a 6 million baht first prize and various consolation prizes. Winners can claim prizes within two years (using passport or ID), though major prizes require visiting the Government Lottery Office in Bangkok, and winnings are subject to a small withholding tax and stamp duty Thai Immigration Refutes British Woman's Forced Drug Trafficking Claims Thai immigration authorities have vehemently denied claims by 19-year-old British national Bella May Culley, who said she was tortured and coerced into trafficking drugs from Thailand, presenting surveillance footage that shows her walking calmly through passport control at Suvarnabhumi Airport on May 10, 2025. Immigration Commissioner Lt. Gen. Choengron Rimpadee stated there is “no factual basis” for her allegations, and no evidence that any officials forced or threatened her to smuggle drugs North Korea to Reinforce Moscow With 30,000 Troops, Officials Say North Korea is reportedly preparing to send an additional 25,000–30,000 troops to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine—tripling its forces beyond the approximately 11,000 it deployed since late 2024, of which roughly 4,000 have been killed. Ukrainian intelligence, citing CNN, revealed that many North Korean soldiers possessed fake Russian IDs and are expected to integrate into Russian-led operations, although frontline coordination reportedly occurs mainly at higher command levels. British mother warns of deadly scrub typhus after Thailand trip British mother from North Yorkshire raised alarm after her 17‑year‑old daughter fell severely ill with swollen lymph nodes, jaundice, and elevated liver enzymes upon returning from Thailand, symptoms later diagnosed as scrub typhus from chigger mite bites in the Chiang Mai region. The family’s ordeal highlights the often-overlooked but potentially fatal risk of scrub typhus for travellers in northern Thailand and underscores the importance of early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment. Attack on Mae Tuen wildlife sanctuary sparks urgent police hunt Two armed suspects on a motorcycle attacked the Pha Lado Forest Protection Unit office inside Mae Tuen Wildlife Sanctuary in Tak province around 12:24 am on July 2, firing two rounds before fleeing after rangers returned warning shots; police later recovered shotgun shells, bullet damage and a toppled motorcycle at the scene. The attack, believed to be linked to illegal rosewood loggers, prompted Thailand’s Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri‑on to order an urgent police hunt and issue arrest warrants. Thai woman allegedly engages in romantic relationships with 3 senior monks A wealthy Thai woman known only as “K” allegedly had romantic relationships with four senior monks—including Bangkok’s respected abbot Arch of Tri Thotsathep Temple—then attempted to extort 7.8 million baht by faking a pregnancy when one monk tried to end the relationship. Following her alleged blackmail and the release of private photos and messages, CIB police have launched an investigation into both the extortion attempts and potential misuse of temple funds. Student survives bus collision at Bangkok pedestrian crossing A university student using a zebra crossing at Vachiraphayaban intersection on Sukhothai Road in Bangkok was struck and hurled several meters by a speeding bus traveling in the outside lane on June 26, captured in viral CCTV footage. Despite the terrifying impact, she survived and is now recovering in hospital—sparking public outrage over reckless driving and calls for improved pedestrian safety. Parliament to follow up on RI-Russia extradition bill Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR) will proceed with reviewing the presidential letter received on June 5, 2025, from President Prabowo Subianto proposing ratification of an extradition treaty with Russia. During the July 1 plenary session, Deputy Speaker Adies Kadir confirmed follow‑up action under parliamentary procedures, as part of ongoing legislative priorities also including construction material MRA and budget accountability bills. HCM City's first metro line increases daily trips to meet travel demand Ho Chi Minh City’s Metro Line 1 has increased its daily trips from 200 to 226—adding 26 extra services—from July 1 until August 15 to cope with rising commuter demand following the administrative expansion merger with neighboring provinces. The metro now operates every 7–12 minutes on weekdays (8–12 minutes on weekends) between 5 am and 10 pm, while launching smart IC card ticketing to streamline fare collection. Prosec to ask Senate: Go with pre-trial in Sara Duterte impeach case The House prosecution team asked the Philippine Senate impeachment court to move forward with pre-trial procedures in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment case, asserting that the formal presentation of the impeachment articles and the Senate’s issuance of a summons already give it jurisdiction. This request comes after the Senate in June returned the complaint to the House for certification of its constitutionality and to reconstitute the prosecution panel, delaying the actual trial's start until those requirements are met

Thai customs officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport arrested a Canadian man on 30 June for attempting to smuggle over 3kg of heroin hidden in women’s handbags. Suspicious luggage weight led to an X-ray and detailed inspection, revealing heroin concealed in stitched handbag linings and suitcase walls. The man, bound for Taiwan, now faces serious charges under Thailand’s drug trafficking laws. The heroin's street value is estimated at over 1 million baht. Authorities are probing possible links to a wider trafficking ring. This marks the 28th heroin smuggling case intercepted by Thai customs since October 2024.

Thailand has launched an official prescription form (P.T.33) for medical cannabis, marking a major regulatory shift. The new form allows licensed practitioners—including doctors and traditional healers—to prescribe cannabis for 15 approved conditions. Each prescription must document patient identity, diagnosis, dosage, and duration, and is valid for 30 days. Dispensers must retain records for one year for compliance. The move follows delays and revisions to ensure safety and standardisation, with rules taking effect the day after publication in the Royal Gazette. This step aims to tighten control over cannabis use while improving patient access in a regulated framework.

Tourists dining at a restaurant in Khao Yai National Park were startled when an Asian black bear appeared outside, drawn by the smell of food. The animal tried to enter but was stopped by a fence, and staff banged a wok to scare it off. The moment was captured on TikTok and sparked mixed reactions—some amused, others concerned. Park rangers noted that bears are increasingly venturing into human areas for food. The incident echoes past wildlife encounters in Thailand, including elephants and bears entering communities, highlighting the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife coexistence near protected areas.

A Thai man pretending to be wealthy dined and dashed at two Pattaya restaurants, leaving behind unpaid bills totalling over 23,000 baht. Claiming to earn big on a cruise ship, he ordered expensive meals and even borrowed cash for tips before disappearing. Despite being caught and identified as "Wanchalong," police released him, citing no serious offence—prompting outrage from local business owners. Another restaurateur reported a similar scam by the same man. The contrasting leniency compared to other cases, such as a British tourist arrested in Phuket for a similar act, has sparked public debate over law enforcement consistency.

Ashton Jones, a 29-year-old Welshman, has awakened from a coma after a brutal attack in Thailand left him critically injured. Found unconscious far from where he was last seen, Ashton underwent emergency brain surgery in Pattaya. Now stable but still in critical condition, he’s being treated with oxygen and feeding tubes. His family, without travel insurance coverage, is fundraising for medical and repatriation costs. The UK Foreign Office is assisting, while Thai police continue investigating the assault. Despite the trauma, Ashton’s recovery has begun—with his one wish being to return home to Wales.

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office pending an investigation into a leaked audio clip of her conversation with Cambodia’s former leader, Hun Sen. The court accepted a petition from 36 senators alleging ethical violations and voted 7–2 to suspend her while the case is under review. The leaked recording, which includes sensitive military comments, has sparked accusations of undermining national sovereignty. Though removed from her role as PM for now, Paetongtarn will remain Minister of Culture as the legal proceedings continue.

In Thailand, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been suspended amid a leaked audio scandal, while new cannabis prescription rules tighten control over medical use. The country also saw a daring restaurant scam in Pattaya, a major heroin smuggling arrest at Suvarnabhumi Airport, and a rare bear encounter in Khao Yai National Park. Across the region, a Batik Air flight narrowly avoided a runway disaster in Jakarta, Vietnam made headlines by legalizing dual citizenship to attract global talent, and Singapore introduced SG60 vouchers alongside the unveiling of the first Singapore–Malaysia RTS train. Meanwhile, a Welshman’s recovery after a violent assault in Thailand has drawn international attention and fundraising efforts. Thai PM Paetongtarn Suspended Amid Leaked Audio Scandal Involving Cambodia Thailand’s Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pending an investigation into a leaked audio clip with Cambodia’s Hun Sen. The recording, which contained sensitive military remarks, has triggered political fallout and accusations of ethical breaches. Thailand Introduces Prescription Form to Regulate Medical Cannabis Use Thailand has launched a standardized prescription system to regulate medical cannabis, requiring detailed documentation and stricter dispensary protocols. The new rules aim to tighten oversight while maintaining patient access to approved treatments. Fake Rich Diner Skips Bills at Pattaya Eateries, Leaves Owners Furious A Thai man posing as a wealthy cruise ship worker dined and dashed at Pattaya restaurants, leaving unpaid bills totaling over 23,000 baht. Despite police catching him, his release without serious charges has sparked public frustration over inconsistent law enforcement. Canadian Caught at Bangkok Airport Smuggling 3kg of Heroin in Handbags Thai customs officers arrested a Canadian man attempting to smuggle over 3kg of heroin hidden in women’s handbags at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Authorities are investigating links to a larger drug trafficking network as heroin smuggling cases continue to rise. Asian Black Bear Surprises Diners at Khao Yai National Park Restaurant An Asian black bear startled diners at a Khao Yai National Park restaurant after being drawn to food smells but was safely deterred by staff. The incident highlights growing human-wildlife encounters as animals venture closer to populated areas in search of food. Batik Air Plane Nearly Skids Due to Strong Crosswind in Jakarta A Batik Air flight narrowly avoided a serious accident when strong crosswinds tilted the plane during landing at Jakarta’s Soekarno Hatta Airport. The aircraft landed safely despite the severe weather, and the airline confirmed that all safety protocols were followed. Vietnam Approves Dual Citizenship to Attract Global Talent Vietnam has legalized dual citizenship to attract skilled workers and overseas Vietnamese, lifting long-standing restrictions on nationality. The reform aims to boost economic growth by drawing global talent, especially in technology and innovation sectors. Singapore Rolls Out SG60 Vouchers Worth Up to S$800 for Citizens Singaporeans can now claim SG60 vouchers—worth up to S$800—as part of the 2025 Budget, with redemption staggered by age groups. The vouchers, usable at local shops and supermarkets, are part of broader support measures to help citizens amid economic pressures. First Train for Singapore–Malaysia RTS Link Officially Unveiled The first train for the Singapore–Malaysia Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link was unveiled, promising to cut cross-border travel time to just five minutes. Scheduled to begin operations by December 2026, the project aims to ease congestion on the busy Johor causeway. Welshman Wakes from Coma After Brutal Assault in Thailand Ashton Jones, a Welshman attacked in Thailand, has awoken from a coma after emergency brain surgery in Pattaya. His family is urgently fundraising for his care and return to Wales, as Thai authorities continue to investigate the assault.

A Swedish man was brutally assaulted in Pattaya’s Soi Buakhao after an argument with his Thai girlfriend escalated. He claims a mob of over ten unidentified Thai men joined in, leaving him bloodied and shaken. The incident, captured in disturbing social media images, has sparked alarm about safety in the tourist-heavy city. Police are urgently reviewing CCTV and appealing for witnesses. The attack has fuelled concerns over rising street violence and the adequacy of law enforcement, with officials pledging swift action to restore public confidence in Pattaya’s safety.

Thailand’s political tensions escalated after opposition and ruling parties condemned recent rally leaders for allegedly encouraging a military coup. At a national unity event by the “United Power of Land Group,” speeches hinted at coup support, drawing backlash from the People’s Party and Pheu Thai. Critics warned such rhetoric undermines democracy and the constitution. While peaceful protests are legal, both parties stressed that coup advocacy is unacceptable. The controversy highlights growing political fragility as pro-democracy voices clash with rising nationalist and militaristic sentiment.

A motorcyclist sparked public concern after crashing into a tanker on a Bangkok expressway—where bikes are banned—while appearing to be asleep at the handlebars. Despite the dramatic impact, he suffered only minor injuries. A viral video showed the man unresponsive and drifting in a straight line before the collision. The footage ignited debate online over driver fatigue, enforcement failures, and safety on restricted roads. Authorities have yet to comment, but the incident has reignited calls for stricter regulation and awareness of road safety risks.

A desperate Thai mother in Sa Kaeo pleaded on Facebook for police to arrest her drug-addicted son after he traded durians she bought him for yaba (meth). Her emotional post went viral, prompting authorities to arrest the local dealer, Sao Praditsri, who was found with 90 yaba pills. Sao, a repeat offender, tested positive for drugs and now faces serious charges. While officials acted on her plea by targeting the supplier, there’s no update yet on action taken against her son. The case highlights ongoing struggles with meth use and community-level enforcement challenges in Thailand.

Thailand has introduced new citizenship rules to address statelessness among children of long-term migrants. Effective immediately for one year, the policy allows children born in Thailand to migrant parents registered before 1999 and between 2005–2011 to apply for Thai nationality. Applicants must show proof of birth, 15 years of parental residency, and language proficiency—though young children and those with disabilities are exempt. The move covers various ethnic groups and aims to improve access to education, healthcare, and legal rights for thousands. Authorities emphasise strict eligibility and the potential for revocation if criteria are falsified.