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.BRUSSELS: Kashmir Council Europe (KC-EU), Chairman, Ali Raza Syed has condemned rude attitude of Indian authorities with Chair of All Parties Kashmir Group at British parliament.
Member of the British Parliament and the Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Kashmir Ms Debbie Abrahams has been denied entry to India. After arriving at Delhi Airport on Monday’s morning, she was told by the Indian authorities that her e-visa, which was valid until October 2020, has been rejected.
In a statement on this issue, Chairman Kashmir Council EU said, rude and insulting behavior of Indian authorities at Delhi airport with a British female parliamentarian who is advocate of rights of the oppressed people of Kashmir, is not acceptable for the civilized society of the world.
It is important to mention that in a statement the MP Ms Abrahams revealed that after refusing entry to India and rejecting her visa, Indian officials at Delhi airport were very rude and were aggressively shouting at her. She had arrived through an international flight at Delhi airport on Monday.
Chairman Kashmir Council EU asked the British government specially British parliament to take serious notice of the such immoral behavior of Indian authorities with the parliamentarian.
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