Sri Lanka’s official poverty line rose to Rs. 17,592 in June, marking an increase of Rs. 277 from the previous month, according to the latest data released by the Department of Census and Statistics.
The official poverty line represents the minimum monthly amount considered necessary for a person to meet their basic needs. It is calculated based on the cost of a specified minimum level of food and non-food consumption and is updated monthly to reflect changes in prices.
The June figures show significant differences between districts. The poverty line in Colombo stood at Rs. 18,973, the highest among the districts, while Gampaha recorded Rs. 18,876.
The lowest figure was recorded in Monaragala, where the official poverty line stood at Rs. 16,821.
The increase in the national poverty line comes as household expenses continue to be influenced by changes in food and other essential prices.
The official poverty line is used by policymakers and researchers as an important indicator when assessing changes in living standards, poverty and the cost of living in Sri Lanka.
