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: Pakistani pop sensation and showbiz thrill Aima Baig has officially confirmed her marriage to Zain Ahmed – the creative director and co-founder of fashion label Rastah – through an emotional Instagram post shared late Tuesday night.
“Married my best friend last night ALLHUMDULLILAH… still feels like a dream. It actually happened ????✨ Keep us in your duas as we begin this new chapter together ❤️,” Aima wrote, alongside a glimpse of their wedding moments.
She added that solo pictures from the ceremony will be uploaded later, saying she was feeling “super overwhelmed for now but IA soon ????????.”
According to sources close to the couple, the wedding took place in Canada in an intimate setting attended by close family and friends. While details remain scarce, fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages soon after the post went live.
Zain Ahmed is the creative force behind Rastah, a Lahore-based fashion brand that has gained global attention for its modern South Asian aesthetic. Rastah’s work has been worn by global icons like Riz Ahmed and featured in international publications such as Vogue.
With both Aima and Zain active in creative industries, fans are calling the union a perfect match of music and fashion.
As the photo began circulating, fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages. Fellow celebrities and influencers also shared their excitement and best wishes, praising the couple for keeping the event intimate and elegant.
Many noted that the wedding comes after months of speculation surrounding Aima’s relationship status following her previous breakup, which had been heavily publicized.
Before her marriage to Zain Ahmed, Aima Baig was previously engaged to actor and filmmaker Shehbaz Shigri. The two were widely adored by fans and had gone public with their relationship in 2020.
However, they parted ways in 2022, with Aima confirming the breakup through a social media post, asking fans for respect and privacy.
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