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.LAHORE: Indian cricketers including Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan and Harbhajan Singh have declined to participate in the scheduled match against the Pakistan Champions in the World Championship of Legends (2025), the Indian media reports said.
The match is set to take place on July 20 (today) and will begin at 8:30 pm (PST). The three Indian players have reportedly expressed reservations due to the current conflict situation involving Pakistan.
Efforts are underway to persuade the trio to take part in the fixture. Meanwhile, other members of the India Champions squad are said to be in a state of uncertainty following the players’ decision.
Sources within the Pakistan Champions confirmed that leading all-rounder Shahid Afridi had been suffering from an injury.
According to the management, no official complaint or notification had been received from the Indian team regarding Afridi or his participation in the match.
A team official stated that neither a written protest nor any formal communication concerning non-participation had been submitted by the Indian side.
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