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.NEW DELHI: Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has reignited aggressive rhetoric, stating that it is his “responsibility to give a befitting reply to those who dare to attack India.”
Speaking at the ‘Arjan Singh Memorial Lecture’ at the Air Force Auditorium in New Delhi, Singh reiterated a militaristic stance that analysts warn could further destabilize regional peace. “Our brave soldiers protect India’s physical form, and our sages its spiritual form. As defence minister, I must ensure both the country’s security and deliver strong responses to any aggression,” Singh said.
Amid heightened regional tensions following the April 22 Baisaran Valley of occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists, Singh commented in the wake of the Pahalgam attack, that echo a broader pattern of the BJP-led government’s assertive military posturing.
Addressing the Sanskriti Jagran Mahotsav, Singh invoked Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership style, stating, “You know our PM very well… what you desire will certainly happen,” alluding to anticipated retaliatory actions.
“India’s power lies not only in its armed forces but also in its culture and spirituality,” Singh added, a message seen by observers as blurring the line between governance, religion, and militarism.
Read more: Pakistan Army Retaliates Hard Against Indian Unprovoked LoC Aggression
