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.DURBAN: South African Women Cricket Team registered a 13-run win over Pakistan in the second ODI in Durban to win the three-match series.
The dead-rubber third fixture will be played on Tuesday.
Being sent to bat first at Kingsmead, the hosts managed 252-7 as all-rounder Marizanne Kapp struck a half-century. Her unbeaten 68-run knock came off 45 deliveries which included 10 fours and a six.
Opening batter Lizelle Lee played a suportive knock of 47 from 50 balls with eight boundaries to her name. Captain Sune Luus hit three boundaries on her way to 71-ball 32.
For Pakistan, Diana Baig and Nashra Sandhu took two wickets each.
In reply, the visitors were restricted to 239-8 despite fighting half-centuries from all-rounders Aliya Riaz and Nida Dar.
Aliya top-scored with 81 from 95 balls with seven boundaries and a six to her name.
She put on an 111-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Dar, who struck two boundaries on her way to a cautious 89-ball 51.
Omaima Sohail scored 41 from 33 balls after hitting eight fours.
Ayabonga Khaka was the pick of the bowlers for the home team with her four-wicket haul whereas Kapp returned with three wickets.
Read more: Pakistan announces 20-man strong test squad for South Africa series
