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.LAHORE: Cricket fever is set to sweep across Pakistan as the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (ICC CT-25) edges closer, with the grand opening ceremony for the event set for Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Friday (February 7) tomorrow.
With meticulous planning by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in collaboration with the International Cricket Council (ICC), a series of grand events will mark the beginning of this prestigious tournament.
The celebrations will commence on February 7 with the official reopening of the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The venue has undergone extensive renovations to enhance the match-day experience for players and spectators alike. Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shahbaz Sharif, has been invited as the chief guest for this landmark occasion.
To maximize fan engagement, PCB has announced free entry for spectators attending the February 7 opening ceremony of the Champions Trophy. The gates will be opened for entry at 5:30 PM, with the official ceremony scheduled to begin at 7 PM.
This initiative ensures that cricket lovers can witness the historic moment firsthand while setting the stage for an electrifying tournament.
PCB is also reportedly planning a celebration at the National Stadium Karachi with Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari as the chief guest.
The on-field action will kick off on February 8, with Pakistan facing New Zealand. The two teams will also meet in the Champions Trophy opener on February 19th at Karachi’s National Stadium.
As the first major ICC event in the country since 1996, the Champions Trophy is expected to bring electrifying contests between the world’s best teams. With the global cricket spotlight on Pakistan, the blend of historic venues, high-profile guests, and thrilling matchups promises an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide.
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