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.LAHORE: The Punjab government will organize more than 5,600 mass marriages across the province under the Dhee Rani Programme starting from October 15.
The decision was made during the ninth meeting of the Provincial Steering Committee held in Lahore, chaired via video link by Provincial Minister for Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Mal Sohail Shaukat Butt.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Social Welfare Javed Akhtar Mahmood and senior officials, while all divisional commissioners participated through video link. During the session, approval was granted for more than 5,600 cases under the Dhee Rani Programme.
Speaking at the meeting, Minister Sohail Shaukat Butt said the initiative aimed to support the welfare of deserving women across Punjab.
“Our initial target was 5,000 weddings, and we are now arranging more than 5,600,” he said.
He added that the receipt of over 9,000 applications under the programme reflected a strong public response.
The minister noted that the Social Welfare Department would ensure transparency and effective coordination for the smooth implementation of the programme.
Sohail Shaukat Butt also directed district administrations and relevant departments to ensure proper arrangements for the upcoming ceremonies. Participants shared suggestions for improvement and assured their cooperation for the effective execution of the initiative.
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