Sri Lanka’s poverty profile shows that approximately 15.2 percent of the population, or about 2.8 million people, were living below the national poverty line, with poverty remaining heavily concentrated in rural and estate sectors.

According to data from the Department of Census and Statistics, the estate sector recorded the highest poverty rate at 32 percent, while Uva Province and Central Province emerged as the most affected provinces, with districts such as Nuwara Eliya and Monaragala reporting some of the highest poverty levels in the country.

Despite a steady decline in the national poverty rate over the years, significant income inequality persists, with the wealthiest 20 percent accounting for nearly half of total consumption while the poorest 20 percent hold just 7.1 percent.

Experts note that although overall living standards have improved, chronic poverty remains entrenched in several regions, highlighting the need for targeted development programs to address longstanding economic and social disparities.