If an individual is unable to spend Rs.3,924 rupees a month to sustain his basic needs he or she is considered poor.

The Department of Census and Statistics has been able to calculate this figure using their latest data and techniques. The Department of Census and Statistics, utilizes the poverty line to identify those who are living in poverty.

The calculation takes into account a person’s expenditure on food and other basic needs per month.

According to the latest statistics revealed by the Department of Census and Statistics, by the end of the month of July, the standard poverty line stood at Rs.3,924.

An individual who is unable to earn a monthly income of Rs.4000  in nine districts including Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Nuwara Eliya can also be considered as someone who lives below the poverty line.

However, in areas such as Badulla, Monaragala, Anuradhapura, Hambantota and nine other districts persons who are unable to earn between Rs.3771 and 3900 rupees are considered poor.

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