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: President Asif Ali Zardari urged the nation to draw inspiration from the timeless teachings of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and translate his ideals into action for Pakistan’s progress and prosperity.
In his message marking Iqbal Day, observed on November 9, the president said that as the nation paid tribute to the Poet of the East, it must also reaffirm its determination to uphold his guiding principles and work toward a peaceful and united Pakistan.
“As we honor the Poet of the East, let us renew our commitment to his vision and work together for a Pakistan that is prosperous, peaceful, and united. Let us draw strength from his life and ideals as we strive for a brighter tomorrow,” he stated.
He said the day marked the birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the poet-philosopher whose vision inspired the spirit of independence and self-determination among the Muslims of the Subcontinent.
Recalling Iqbal’s historic address at the All-India Muslim League session in 1930, the president noted that Iqbal’s call for safeguarding Muslim rights laid the foundation for the creation of a sovereign nation.
“Iqbal’s legacy extends far beyond his literary works such as Asrar-e-Khudi, Rumuz-e-Bekhudi, and Bang-e-Dara, which delve into themes of identity, spirituality, and freedom. His emphasis on political representation for Muslims and adherence to values rooted in Islam continues to shape Pakistan’s national identity,” the President Secretariat Press Wing quoted him as saying.
President Zardari expressed hope that Allama Iqbal’s vision would continue to guide the nation in its collective pursuit of progress and serve as a source of inspiration for generations to come.
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