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: Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam says his recent performances are the result of relentless hard work and firm belief in his abilities, crediting consistency and focus for his success. Speaking to the media after the ODI match against Sri Lanka at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday, Azam stated, “Despite challenges, I continued to work hard and maintained my confidence. Allah has rewarded me for my hard work.”
He also thanked the fans for their unwavering support, saying, “The exceptional support from the fans across Pakistan gave me the motivation and confidence during difficult times.” Azam acknowledged that he had struggled to convert good starts into big scores in the past, but was happy to have played a big innings in line with the target.
“Scoring a century after a long time has significantly boosted my confidence,” he said. The Pakistani batsman thanked his coaches for their support, saying, “The coaches (Shahid Aslam, Mansoor Rana) provided valuable guidance, which was very helpful for me.” Azam advised young cricketers to focus on hard work and self-belief, saying, “Consistency is key to success in sports.
In difficult times, the support of family, friends, coaches, and teammates has been invaluable, and I am grateful to them.”
