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: The District and Sessions Court in federal capital on Monday rejected three petitions filed by Bushra Bibi, the wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, seeking interim bail in different cases related to November 26 protest.
The Additional District and Sessions Judge Afzal Majoka announced the decision during the hearing which was attended by Bushra Bibi’s lawyer Khalid Yousaf Chaudhry and prosecutor Iqbal Kakar.
Advocate Chaudhry filed interim bail petitions on behalf of his client. At which, the judge pointed out no surety bonds had been submitted so far.
The Bushra Bibi’s lawyer said his client needed to go to the Adiala Jail where an accountability court is set to announce verdict in 190 million pounds case.
The judge remarked, “You are not implementing the court orders”. He later disposed of the bail petitions.
Verdict in the 190 million pounds Al-Qadir Trust corruption case against PTI founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi will be announced today (Monday).
Judge Nasir Javed Rana of accountability court will announce the verdict in Adiala Jail at 11:00 am.
Read more: Judgement of 190m Pounds Case Against Imran, Bushra Likely Today
