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: Afghanistan’s UN-sanctioned foreign minister arrived in India on Thursday, marking the first visit by a senior Taliban leader since the group’s return to power in 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led forces.
Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit, made possible after the UN Security Council granted him a travel waiver, is expected to draw close attention from Pakistan as New Delhi deepens its engagement with the Taliban government.
“We look forward to engaging discussions with him on bilateral relations and regional issues,” Indian Foreign Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement, extending a “warm welcome” to Muttaqi.
Muttaqi, who previously met India’s top diplomat Vikram Misri in Dubai in January, is scheduled to hold talks with Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. Although neither side has disclosed the agenda, analysts suggest trade and security are likely to dominate discussions — while India remains cautious about formally recognizing the Taliban government.
“New Delhi is eager to establish its influence in Kabul and not be left behind by its rivals, China and Pakistan,” said Praveen Donthi, an analyst with the International Crisis Group. He added that while the Taliban are seeking diplomatic recognition and legitimacy, that goal remains distant.
“India is not in a hurry to provide diplomatic recognition to the Taliban,” remarked Rakesh Sood, India’s former ambassador to Kabul.
India has long hosted tens of thousands of Afghans, including many who fled after the Taliban regained power. Afghanistan’s embassy in New Delhi closed in 2023, though consulates in Mumbai and Hyderabad continue to offer limited services.
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