More than 300,000 monks can now apply for identification cards in a move designed to help control rogue members and bogus ones soliciting cash.

At present, monks are not required to carry identification cards as is the public.

The new cards will be used together with existing documents issued to monks. They will record their identities, as well as their movements and transfers to other temples.

A database at the National Buddhism Office will be established to store this information and keep track of records, says director Amnart Buasiri.

ID cards are generally issued to all nationals aged 15 or older.

For the monks, the cards will be electronic, and will be issued soon.

With new identification measures, police will be better equipped to detect bogus monks using their robes to con cash from the public.

Many have been arrested dressed as monks or nuns soliciting money at public places.

Additionally, genuine monks from China are soliciting money through foundations in Thailand.