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, 18 Feb (Web Desk): Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Monday met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discussed the matters of mutual interest.
During the meeting, the two dignitaries also discussed the ongoing cooperation between the two countries in the fields of defense. The discussion on military training collaboration was also held.
It is pertinent to mention here that the role of Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa in furthering ties between the two countries was an important driving force.
The army chief’s visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on August 22, 2018 had undertaken some important decisions. While Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman maiden visit to Pakistan is also connected to the COAS visit.
Saudi crown prince had arrived in Pakistan on a maiden visit to the country on Sunday (Feb 16) and left today after completing his two-day visit.
The crown prince was accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including members of Saudi Royal family, key ministers and leading businessmen.
Prime Minister Imran Khan thanked Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman for his arrival to Pakistan, at a joint press conference before the latter left the country.
PM Khan also expressed his gratitude to the royal dignitary for ordering release of 2107 Pakistani prisoners detained in Saudi jails.
In his remarks, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman said Pakistan had the potential to become a big economy by 2030. “We believe Pakistan have a huge potential and it would be one of the biggest 20 economies in the world”.
