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.LAHORE: Senior actor Tauqeer Nasir has described Sajal Ali and Hania Aamir as talented but noted a significant gap in their careers.
Recently, Nasir participated in a program, where he spoke openly on various topics.
During the conversation, Tauqeer Nasir shared that he was inspired to pursue acting after watching Waheed Murad. Initially, his family was against it, but his father later gave him permission.
The actor also stated that his acting style is quite different from Waheed Murad’s, as he never imitated him. Waheed Murad was known for romantic roles, while Tauqeer Nasir gained fame for portraying aggressive characters.
Tauqeer Nasir agreed with the observation that today’s young actors do not respect their seniors.
He mentioned that in his era, people would stand up in respect when a senior arrived, and there was mutual respect between new and senior artists. However, that respect is now absent.
According to Nasir, he used to stand up for Qavi Khan not out of fear, but respect, but this sentiment is missing in today’s younger generation.
In response to a question, he said that among current actresses, Sajal Ali and Hania Aamir are the best and most talented, but their careers lack one crucial element: good directors.
Nasir remarked that modern directors focus more on the screen and do not nurture or teach actors, which impacts the careers of talented actresses like Sajal and Hania.
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