Thailand's military government has approved a one-time payout to low-income people in an effort to stimulate the country's weak economy.

Under the plan, Thailand's poorest citizens will receive cash handouts worth around 360 million US dollars. The military council has often criticized people's reliance on state subsidies, but says the move will help stimulate the country's grass-roots economy.

Poor farmers will not be included in the cash handout because they already receive financial aid.