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.KABUL: Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has unveiled a 17-member squad for the upcoming men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025, with star all-rounder Rashid Khan set to captain the side.
The tournament will be held in the United Arab Emirates from September 9, where Afghanistan open their campaign against Hong Kong.
The squad features a balance of experienced names and emerging talent. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, and Sediqullah Atal strengthen the top order, while Darwish Rasooli and Karim Janat add depth in the middle.
Veteran Mohammad Nabi returns to bolster the all-round department alongside Gulbadin Naib and Azmatullah Omarzai. Rising spinner AM Ghazanfar, 19, who already has two ODI five-wicket hauls, is one of the most exciting inclusions.
Afghanistan’s greatest strength remains its spin attack. Rashid will be supported by Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ghazanfar, and Sharafuddin Ashraf – making it arguably the most formidable spin unit in the tournament.
Fast-bowling responsibilities will fall on Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq, with support from Omarzai and Naib as pace-bowling all-rounders. Fareed Malik adds further depth to the seam department.
Afghanistan head into the Asia Cup with limited recent T20I experience, having played just three matches in the past 12 months — a 2-1 series win against Zimbabwe in December 2024. Ahead of the Asia Cup, they will feature in a triangular T20I series in Sharjah against Pakistan and UAE.
Notably missing from the squad are Hazratullah Zazai and Zubaid Akbari, while spinner Nangeyalia Kharote has been moved to reserves. Ibrahim Zadran and Sharafuddin Ashraf return to strengthen the side.
Afghanistan are placed in Group B alongside Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Hong Kong. With their spin-heavy attack and a strengthened batting core, Rashid’s men will look to improve on their strong showing from the 2022 Asia Cup, where they stunned Sri Lanka in the opener but fell short of making the final.
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