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.DERA GHAZI KHAN: Police claimed to have repulsed a terrorists attack on a check post in Wahuwa Jhangi border area police station of Dera Ghazi Khan on Sunday night.
According to Punjab police spokesman, 20 to 25 terrorists attacked the police post from four sides with rocket launchers and sophisticated weapons.
The spokesman said being already alerted, police retaliated to their attack in a befitting manner and forced them to retreat without harming any policeman or damaging any property.
Dera Ghazi Khan RPO Sajjad Manj led the operation, whereas DPO Syed Ali and other high officers were present during the operation.
In his statement, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi commended the brave young men of the Punjab Police who courageously repulsed the Khawarij attack.
He expressed pride in the professional abilities and bravery of the police who “stood like an iron wall against the Khawarij and repelled the attack.”
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Punjab Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar was all praise for his force.
The IGP mentioned that the force has been provided latest weapons and additional personnel to secure the Jhungi police check post.
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