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: Lahore High Court (LHC) has granted permission for the Aurat March following a contempt of court petition filed against the Deputy Commissioner for initially denying the NoC for the event.
During the hearing, the Deputy Commissioner submitted the required permission for the march, scheduled for February 12.
A government lawyer presented a letter outlining security arrangements, assuring that participants would receive comprehensive security measures during the event.
Justice Anwaar Hussain led the proceedings, which included petitions from several applicants, including Lena Ghani.
The Deputy Commissioner explained that a cricket match and a horse cattle show were set for February 8, which had complicated the approval process for the march. He noted that discussions regarding the gathering’s approval were ongoing and that further meetings were planned.
When asked about the timeline for the application, the Deputy Commissioner confirmed it was received on January 29. The court inquired if there was a legal timeframe for decisions on such requests, to which the Deputy Commissioner stated that no specific duration is prescribed by law.
The court warned that the Chief Secretary could be summoned if the issue was not resolved promptly; however, granted the permission for the march.
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