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.MUZAFFARABAD: Law enforcement and security organizations have exposed a major terrorist network in Azad Kashmir, raising alarms over the safety of the region.
In a press briefing in Muzaffarabad, Senior Minister and Home Minister, Colonel (R) Waqar Ahmed Noor, stood alongside IGP Rana Abdul Jabbar to announce the breakthrough.
The Home Minister revealed that extremists were operating under the disguise of human rights activists to pursue their malicious plans.
On March 19, 2025, authorities arrested a terrorist named Saqib Ghani at the Azad Pattan entry point. He was carrying a large cache of weapons, raising immediate suspicion.
During intense questioning, Saqib Ghani confessed his connection with wanted fugitives Zarnoosh Naseem, Osama, and Hanzala. These individuals are accused of murdering Constable Sajjad Resham on October 27, 2024.
The terrorist network in Azad Kashmir has admitted to orchestrating multiple sabotage acts.
Their activities included a failed attempt to set fire to the City Bagh police station. They also launched attacks on Motorway Police Islamabad and the Sangjani Toll Plaza.
Following Constable Sajjid’s martyrdom, police initiated a thorough investigation. This inquiry uncovered suspicious figures, including Zarnoosh Naseem, Osama, and Hanzala, who soon became prime suspects.
Evidence pointed to their planning of attacks on vital locations across Azad Kashmir. One of the accused, Osama, surrendered himself voluntarily.
Upon arrest, police recovered grenades and pistols from his possession. Additionally, another accused, Ghazi Shahzad, who had escaped from Rawalakot Jail, admitted to having terrorist links in Afghanistan.
Colonel Waqar Ahmed Noor shared alarming details about Abdul Rauf who is accused of radicalizing innocent youth in the name of Jihad and Sharia.
He is allegedly associated with the extremist group Fitna-al-Khawarij.
The Minister emphasized that the terrorist network in Azad Kashmir received planning and financial assistance from India.
He assured the public that legal action was underway against facilitators involved in these criminal activities.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of law enforcement, the government has pledged to preserve peace in the region, the said and called upon citizens to stay alert and fully support the authorities.
Read more:Heavy Rainfall Followed By Hailstorm Bludgeon Vehicles In Twin Cities, Parts of KP
