The Planters’ Association of Ceylon (PA) said that Regional Plantation Companies (RPCs) have increased festival advances for their workers ahead of this year's Deepavali celebration. All RPC field workers will now receive Rs.25,000, up from Rs.20,000, marking a 25% increase. Meanwhile, RPC staff will see their advances rise from Rs.25,000 to Rs.30,000, a 20% increase.

PA Secretary General Lalith Obeyesekere said that this proactive decision recognizes Deepavali's cultural significance for the workforce. He emphasized that the increase aligns with recent wage adjustments, demonstrating RPCs’ commitment to supporting their employees during the festive season.

This change follows a recent wage agreement that raised plantation worker daily wages from Rs.1,000 to Rs.1,350, including a productivity component for additional earnings. The PA noted that Sri Lankan tea harvesters remain among the highest-paid globally, excluding housing and healthcare benefits provided by RPCs.