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.ISLAMABAD, Feb 01 (INP): Islamabad Police have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with various educational institutions for free education to children of police martyrs and 50 percent fee concession to the serving employees of the force.
On behalf of Islamabad Police, the Memorandum of Understanding was signed by DIG Headquarters Islamabad Police Sarfaraz Ahmed Falki with various educational institutions.
As per agreement, the Smart School, Nicon Group of Colleges, Air foundation, Islamabad Science School and College will provide 100 percent free education for the children of ICT Police Martyrs. Fifty percent discount will be given to the children of employees of ICT Police.
As per MoU, admission fee and security fee are also not applicable for children of Martyrs as well as employees.
DIG Headquarters thanked the management of these educational institutions for this agreement who are contributing a lot for quality education.
He said that welfare of Islamabad policemen is at top priority while equal education and health facilities would be provided to each policemen whether from officer or lower cadre.
The management of educational institutions said that sacrifices of Islamabad police martyrs would be remembered for ever and this is a humble gesture to support their families.
DIG (Headquarters) said that it is our responsibility to ensure welfare of families of those policemen who sacrificed their lives for our better future.
