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.OTTAWA: Three Indian nationals stood trial in the British Columbia Provincial Court linked to the murder of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
The accused, identified as Kamalpreet Singh, Karanpreet Singh, and Karan Brar, had been residing in Canada under temporary citizenship for five years.
The courtroom was crowded with supporters of Khalistan movement during the hearing, underscoring the widespread concern over the case. Outside, a sizable crowd waved Khalistan flags and voiced slogans against the Modi govt, demanding justice for Nijjar’s killing.
Superintendent Mandeep Mokar revealed the alleged connections between the arrested individuals and the Modi govt, asserting that all investigations had pointed in that direction.
This news follows Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s assertion last year, backed by global intelligence agencies like Five Eyes, implicating the Modi govt in Nijjar’s assassination.
This incident is part of a broader pattern, as Indian nationals have also faced legal proceedings in the United States for similar offenses. Notably, individuals like Nikhil Gupta were arrested for attempting to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
The gravity of these crimes has attracted international attention, with the US State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, urging India to address the issue earnestly.
Read more: Multan Police arrests PTI leader Dr Rubina Akhter on May 9
