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 DELHI: Dilip Doshi, the former Indian left-arm spinner and one of the last torchbearers of India’s golden era of spin bowling, has passed away in London at the age of 77, according to Indian media reports.
Doshi, remembered as both a formidable bowler and a gentleman, made his Test debut in 1979 at the relatively late age of 30, but quickly made an impact with his consistent performances. He went on to play 33 Test matches, claiming 114 wickets, and represented India in 15 One-Day Internationals between 1980 and 1982.
Tributes from Cricket Legends
Indian cricket legends and former teammates took to social media to express their sorrow and celebrate Doshi’s legacy.
Sachin Tendulkar described Doshi as a “warm-hearted soul,” adding that he would miss their thoughtful cricketing conversations.
Former India all-rounder Ravi Shastri hailed him as “a gentleman to the core and a fine, fine bowler.”
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also paid tribute, recognizing his role in extending India’s world-renowned spin tradition.
A Link in India’s Legendary Spin Chain
Often seen as a spiritual successor to the iconic spin quartet of Bishan Singh Bedi, Erapalli Prasanna, Srinivas Venkataraghavan, and Bhagwath Chandrasekhar, Doshi was admired for his accuracy, flight, and ability to deceive batsmen on any surface.
Recognizable by his signature spectacles, Doshi also enjoyed a successful English County Cricket career, most notably with Nottinghamshire, where he earned a reputation for troubling some of the best batsmen in the world.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to Indian and international cricket will long be remembered.
