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.KARACHI: Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessorihas reiterated that the government and the Pakistan Army were on same page for promoting investment and economic stability of the country.
The Governor made these remarks while addressing an event organised by the Pakistani diaspora in Luton, England.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Tessori said that overseas Pakistanis were playing a key role in the country’s development.
It is pertinent to mention here that remittances swelled 25.2% to $3 billion in January 2025, up from $2.397 billion recorded in the same period last year, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) confirmed earlier this month.
“We should not do politics with Pakistan. It is our homeland,” he added.
Advising the participants, the governor said: “Your parents and elders came from Pakistan. We should take care of its dignity.”
Urging the overseas Pakistanis to invest in the country, he said the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) created numerous investment opportunities in the country.
“Overseas Pakistanis should take advantage of investment opportunities through SIFC,” he added.
Lauding the security forces, the governor said: “Pakistan Army is the guarantor of Pakistan’s security, stability and development.”
He said that supporting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir was in the best interest of the country. He stressed the need for joint efforts for a brighter future of the country.
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