Army seeks 80,000 conscripts, stresses transparency and safety

The Thai Army will require more than 80,000 conscripts this year, as its agencies conduct the annual conscription process from April 1 to 12, Army spokesman Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree said on Monday.

The army chief has ordered all units to ensure that the selection process is transparent, verifiable and conducted with maximum safety.

According to Deputy Commander of the Territorial Defence Command Maj Gen Somphol Palathai, a total of 477,435 Thai men are eligible for the draft this year.

His unit requires 84,380 new soldiers, Somphol said, adding that 22,062 have already volunteered online, leaving 62,318 to be selected through the draft.

Lt Gen Kriengchai Prasongsukarn, head of the Army Medical Department, said 37 army hospitals will integrate their systems to oversee both the physical and mental health of new recruits.

He added that the army will also assess the mental readiness of training instructors and provide nationwide training on mental health awareness.

In a move reflecting greater inclusivity, the army said it will provide accommodation and bathrooms separated according to gender identity to ensure recruits’ comfort and align with modern living standards.

Maj Gen Therdsak Wongchan, head of the Army Finance Department, said conscripts will receive a monthly salary and monetary benefits totaling 11,000 baht.

Referring to discipline, Maj Gen Kasem Pinkaeo, head of the Army Inspector General’s Department, said all forms of punishment must strictly comply with regulations.

The use of excessive force is banned in all cases, and any punishment that endangers life or physical well-being is strictly prohibited.

Any incidents must be investigated swiftly and transparently, with both disciplinary and criminal penalties for violations. Punishments are also prohibited after 6pm, he added.