The Department of Census and Statistics has released the official poverty line for February 2025, setting the national threshold at Rs. 16,318 per individual per month. This figure represents the minimum income required to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and essential services.
Based on this benchmark, a family of four would require a minimum of Rs. 65,272 per month to maintain essential living standards.
The poverty line, which is revised monthly, varies by district. For February, the Colombo District reported the highest threshold at Rs. 17,599, while Monaragala District recorded the lowest at Rs. 15,603.
Officials attribute the marginal decline in the poverty line to a drop in the National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) for February compared to January 2025.
The complete district-wise poverty line chart for February 2025 is available via the Department of Census and Statistics.
