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: At the advent of Eidul Fitr, the fesitivity gains pace as the markets in twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have witnessed a significant surge in the number of Bangles and Mehandi Stalls all across, catering to the festive demands of the citizens.
As the holy month of Ramazan comes to a close, the streets of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have transformed into vibrant markets, offering a wide range of colourful bangles, intricate hina designs, and other festive essentials.
The stalls have been set up in various markets and shopping centers which were attracting large crowds of women and children, eager to get their hands on the latest bangles and mehandi trends.
A stall owner Imran revealed that the demand for bangles and mehandi is extremely high during Eid and we have stocked up on a wide-range of variety of designs and colors to cater to the diverse tastes of our customers.
The prices of bangles and mehandi vary greatly, ranging from affordable options for as low as Rs. 50 to more elaborate designs priced at over Rs. 1,000 adding that they are trying their best to provide affordable options to customers.
A customer Kausar in a Rawalpindi merket stated, “I love how mehandi makes me feel connected to my culture and traditions and the intricate designs are so beautiful”.
She said Bangles shopping was favorite part of Eid festivities and preparations are on, adding that she can spend hours trying on different designs and colors. The mehandi and bangle stalls were a great place to bond with friends and family and they always have so much fun trying on different designs and taking photos together, she stated.
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