Sri Lanka’s poverty line sees drastic increase over a decade

August 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s official poverty line has experienced a significant threefold increase over the past decade, according to a recent report by the Department of Census and Statistics.

The poverty line rose from Rs 5,223 in 2012-2013 to Rs 17,014 by January 2024. The economic crisis of 2022 accelerated this rise, pushing inflation to unprecedented levels.

By May 2024, Colombo had the highest poverty line at Rs 17,608, followed closely by Gampaha at Rs 17,517 and Nuwara Eliya at Rs 17,169.

Districts such as Monaragala, Kilinochchi, and Hambantota recorded lower figures.

The official poverty line reflects the minimum income required for basic living expenses.