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.ISLAMABAD: Pakistan lashed out at Indian for its involvement in terrorism within Pakistan and stated that it is undeniable that New Delhi is now orchestrating acts of terrorism and massacres across the globe.
Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan during press briefing has stated that Pakistan has a firm stance on terrorism and that there is clear evidence of Indian interference in Balochistan.
He alleged that Indian proxies are actively involved in terrorist activities and emphasized that Pakistan is raising the issue of Indian-sponsored terrorism at all international platforms.
Commenting on the presence of terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan, the spokesperson noted that these remain a significant challenge for Pakistan. He said Pakistan is in touch with Afghan authorities on this matter and hoped Kabul would cooperate in tackling the issue.
Regarding the past, Shafqat Ali Khan remarked, “Whatever happened in the past is now history — only the leaders of that time can explain their decisions during the 1980s. Instead of remaining stuck in the past, we should focus on building a better future.”
He also condemned the continued human rights violations in Indian-occupied Kashmir, calling it deeply unfortunate that the suffering of the Kashmiri people has not been alleviated. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong position against the humiliation of Kashmiri youth by Indian forces.
Khan clarified that only the PPP spokesperson can explain Bilawal Bhutto’s statement. However, he added that Bilawal never named any individual in connection with being handed over to India. He accused India’s national security adviser of misrepresenting facts, calling the Indian NSA’s statement a reflection of New Delhi’s hostile intentions.
On upcoming diplomatic engagements, the spokesperson confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has no plans to meet any Indian official on the sidelines of the SCO summit. However, meetings with other participating leaders are being scheduled. He also underlined the importance of the Indus Waters Treaty, describing it as a matter of life and death for Pakistan’s 250 million people.
Khan reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering friendship with China and confirmed there has been no change in Islamabad’s policy on Taiwan. He added that Pakistan is interested in joining the BRICS group but cannot comment on related developments as it is not currently a member.
On environmental concerns, he noted that Pakistan is among the countries most affected by environmental pollution, despite contributing far less to the global carbon footprint than many others.
He also recalled that Pakistan Steel Mills was a gift from the Soviet Union and confirmed that the government is actively seeking to revive it, including consultations with senior US officials regarding a trade agreement.
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