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.SARGODHA: A courageous woman hailing from Sargodha, Abida Nazir, has dedicated her life to serving orphans, destitute individuals, and underprivileged women.
Driven by a passion for humanitarian service, she has been actively working to support thalassemia patients while also empowering women with vocational skills.
Abida Nazir, 35, regularly donates blood to children suffering from thalassemia and volunteers to assist underprivileged individuals in various capacities. She remains actively engaged in providing financial and emotional support to those in need.
“Abida Nazir is always there to support women facing difficulties,” said one of her friends, highlighting her unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment.
Dr Tanveer Salaharia, in charge of the Thalassemia Centre, also praised Nazir’s dedication.
“She is an exceptionally active woman who organises blood donation camps for thalassemia patients and even cooks meals for them herself,” he noted.
Beyond her humanitarian work, Nazir has also taken initiatives to empower women by providing them with vocational training. She offers courses in tailoring, embroidery, and beauty skills, enabling women to become financially independent.
Nazir’s dedication stems from a personal tragedy. “My younger brother, a ninth-grade student, was injured in a road accident and could not receive a timely blood transfusion. That incident changed my life,” she shared.
Determined to make a difference, she continues to equip women with skills that help them earn a livelihood from home. “I organise small-scale training courses so that women can generate income while staying at home,” she added.
Abida Nazir’s selfless service and determination make her a role model for society, proving that one individual’s dedication can bring meaningful change to many lives.
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