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.ROME: Giorgio Armani, who passed away on Thursday, leaves behind one of the world’s most iconic fashion empires, over which he maintained a firm grip until the end. His death now raises questions about the future of the group and who might take the reins, Reuters reports.
Here are the key figures who could play a major role in Armani’s succession:
The Sister: Rosanna Armani
At 86, Rosanna is the youngest of the three Armani siblings and was Giorgio’s muse for decades. A former model, she played a central role in communications, overseeing the Emporio Armani Magazine.
The Right-Hand Man: Pantaleo (Leo) Dell’Orco
Armani’s closest confidant and long-time partner in work, Dell’Orco has been with the house for 45 years and heads the men’s style office. At 72, he sits on the Armani Foundation board and is seen as one of the three central figures in steering the company’s future.
The Stylistic Heir: Silvana Armani
Niece Silvana, 69, has worked in womenswear for over 40 years and was often described by Armani as his stylistic heir alongside Dell’Orco. She also sits on the board of the company.
The Socialite Niece: Roberta Armani
Silvana’s younger sister, Roberta, 54, manages VIP relations and is a familiar face in celebrity and high-profile client circles. Like her sister, she sits on the board.
The Nephew: Andrea Camerana
Son of Rosanna, Camerana, 55, joined Armani in 2007 and currently sits on the board. While he stepped away from operational roles in 2014, he is expected to take up his uncle’s seat on the Armani Foundation board.
The Financier: Irving Bellotti
A partner at Rothschild & Co and member of Armani’s Executive Committee in Italy, Bellotti serves on the Armani Foundation board and is considered key to guiding the company’s new governance model.
The Business Guru: Giuseppe Marsocci
Currently deputy director general and head of commercial and marketing operations, Marsocci is a seasoned luxury industry executive and a possible candidate for CEO.
The Operator: Daniele Ballestrazzi
Armani’s Chief Operating and Financial Officer since 2015, Ballestrazzi also holds the deputy director general position. With a background at Versace and years of experience in the U.S. market, he is a strong contender for leadership.
The Entrepreneur: Federico Marchetti
Founder of Yoox Net-A-Porter (YNAP), Marchetti became a non-executive board director in 2020. Armani himself praised him, writing: ‘In Federico I see something of myself: my ideals and my way of acting and thinking.’
With multiple family members, trusted confidants, and seasoned executives in the frame, Armani’s death marks the beginning of a critical transition for the fashion house he built into a global powerhouse.
