Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.NEW YORK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a powerful speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), urged the international community to take decisive action against Israeli aggression in Gaza. He emphasized the necessity of a two-state solution to resolve the longstanding Palestinian issue.
Sharif began his address at the 79th session of the UNGA by reciting verses from the Holy Quran, setting the tone for his call for justice and peace in the Middle East.
Sharif condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, describing it as a “great tragedy” where Palestinian children are being buried alive and their homes destroyed. “The world is watching this cruelty unfold,” he said, stressing that mere condemnation is insufficient. He called for immediate global intervention to halt Israel’s attacks.
The prime minister strongly advocated for a two-state solution as the only way to end the suffering in Gaza. He urged the UN to grant Palestine the status of a permanent member, arguing that this step would contribute to lasting peace in the region.
Sharif also expressed grave concern over Israel’s recent aggression in Lebanon, warning that the violence could escalate into a broader regional conflict. “The threat of a major war in the region is growing,” he cautioned.
Turning to South Asia, Sharif highlighted the ongoing human rights violations in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He urged the international community to focus on the humanitarian crisis there, where, he said, the Indian Army continues to commit atrocities against the Kashmiri people.
“Illegal occupation creates fresh hell every day in the killing fields of Palestine and occupied Jammu and Kashmir… Can we turn a blind eye to the mothers cradling the lifeless bodies of their children? This is not just a conflict; this is a systematic slaughter of innocent people, an assault on the very essence of human life and dignity. The blood of Gaza’s children stains the hands not just of the oppressors but also of those complicit in prolonging this cruel conflict,” the prime minister said during his address at the UNGA.
“Since August 5, 2019, India has initiated unilateral illegal steps to impose what its leaders ominously call a ‘Final Solution’ for Jammu and Kashmir. Nine hundred thousand Indian troops terrorize the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir with draconian measures, including prolonged curfews, extrajudicial killings, and the abduction of thousands of young Kashmiris.”
He highlighted India’s attempts to seize Kashmiri lands and properties and settle outsiders in the region to transform the Muslim-majority area into a minority.
Sharif also apprised global leaders of India’s massive expansion of its military capabilities, noting that its war doctrines envisage a surprise attack and a “limited war under the nuclear overhang.” He criticized India for rejecting Pakistan’s proposals for a mutual “Strategic Restraint Regime” and warned of the frequent threats to cross the Line of Control and “take over” Azad Kashmir.
“Let me state, in no uncertain terms, that Pakistan will respond most decisively to any Indian aggression,” he asserted.
Read more: PSX Sees Bullish Momentum on Anticipated IMF Deal
