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.SHARJAH: The Pakistan Cricket Team will take on Afghanistan today (Tuesday) in their third match of the ongoing T20 tri-series.
The Green Shirts held a training session at the ICC Academy, where players practiced batting, bowling, and fielding ahead of the clash.
Pakistan had earlier defeated Afghanistan by 39 runs in the opening match and UAE by 31 runs in the second.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan registered a 38-run victory over UAE in the third match of the series. Chasing a target of 189, UAE were bowled out for 150 despite notable knocks from skipper Muhammad Waseem (67) and Rahul Chopra (52).
For Afghanistan, Sharafuddin Ashraf and Rashid Khan picked up three wickets each, with Rashid Khan also becoming the highest wicket-taker in T20 internationals with 165 wickets. On the batting side, Ibrahim Zadran (63) and Sediqullah Atal (54) played key roles in setting up the win.
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