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.KARACHI: Pakistan on Friday beat South Africa by seven wickets in the first Test at the National Stadium Karachi (NSK) and took 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
The Green Caps were set a target of 88 runs by the Proteas on the fourth day. Azhar Ali remained unbeaten on 31 while Fawad Alam – centurion in the first innings – hit the winning runs. Skipper Babar Azam scored 30.
Anrich Nortje sent both Pakistan openers – Abid Ali and Imran Butt – back in the pavilion on ten and twelve respectively. Babar Azam was trapped lbw by Keshav Maharaj.
The Proteas had resumed the day on 187-4 with a lead of just 29 runs. The hosts had bowled out the visitors on 245 runs in their second innings. Left-arm spinner Nauman Ali took 5-35 while Yasir Shah finished with 4-79.
Hasan Ali bowled nightwatchman Keshav Maharaj (2) on the very first ball of the morning. Skipper Quinton de Kock was removed by Yasir Shah on 2. Nauman Ali picked up the remaining four wickets of George Linde (11), Kagiso Rabada (1), Anrich Nortje (0), and Temba Bavuma (40).
Yasir Shah and Nauman Ali had grabbed three wickets in the space of 10 runs shortly before the close on Thursday to halt South Africa’s fightback on the third day. Shah had also removed Elgar on 29 in post-lunch session.
The Green Caps had scored 378 runs in their first innings, securing a 158-run lead in reply to South Africa’s 220. The second and final match of the series will be played in Rawalpindi from February 4.
Read more: Diana Baig has her eye on new target before 2021 Women’s Cricket World Cup
