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.QUETTA: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited Turbat, Balochistan to review the prevailing security situation and assess ongoing development initiatives aimed at uplifting southern Balochistan.
According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief was given a comprehensive briefing on:
Security dynamics and the threat perspective.
The COAS discussed the successful operations against “Fitna-ul-Hindustan.” Ongoing development projects and socio-economic initiatives in the region.
Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti and the chief secretary of Balochistan were also present during the briefing.
During his interaction with the civil administration, Field Marshal Munir stressed the need for good governance, infrastructure development, and inclusive, people-centric progress.
He reiterated that Balochistan’s problems can only be addressed through joint civil-military efforts, ensuring that the voices and needs of the local population remain central to policy and development initiatives.
The army chief reaffirmed the Pakistan Army’s resolve to stand by the people of Balochistan in their pursuit of peace and sustainable development.
“The Pakistan Army will always remain shoulder to shoulder with the people of Balochistan for their peace, prosperity, and a better future,” he said.
He also lauded the troops deployed in the region for their high morale, operational readiness, and dedication to safeguarding national sovereignty under challenging circumstances.
On his arrival in Turbat, Field Marshal Munir was received by the Corps Commander Balochistan.
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