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.WASHINGTON: Sajid Tarar, head of Muslims for Trump, highlighted the global risks of a third world war amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. He said both India and Pakistan must seek diplomatic solutions.
“The US and Europe cannot afford another war. That’s why the US is urging both sides to talk,” Tarar said and linked the timing of the Pahalgam attack to upcoming elections in Bihar, India, and noted that Indian Prime Minister Modi’s popularity is declining.
“Even within India, serious questions are being raised,” Tarar observed, adding that the international community, including the EU, is rejecting India’s narrative.
Referring to Republican Senator JD Vance’s remarks during his visit to India, Tarar noted, “He clearly said the world won’t stand with you without evidence.” He called the Pahalgam incident an act of terrorism and reminded that Pakistan itself has been a victim of terrorism. He praised the Pakistan Army’s record and asserted, “If any event occurs now, the Pakistan military will defend the nation.”
Tarar stated that the danger of war seems to have subsided for now and confirmed that Trump remains serious about resolving the Afghanistan issue. He also warned about the abandoned US weapons in Afghanistan, calling them a regional threat. “Both the US and Pakistan are aligned in addressing this threat,” he said, stressing that the US will ensure those weapons are recovered.
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