No one can deny the hazards associated with smoking. The situation in Pakistan is alarming. One estimate shows that around 275 persons die of smoking-related illness each day.
About 1200 children aged 6-16 take to smoking every day. Over 36% males and 3.4% females are regular smokers.
Today is a momentous day marking the dawn of a concerted effort on the part of the present government of Pakistan to make this land tobacco-free.
In October 2002, the President of Pakistan promulgated "Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002".
The new anti-smoking law provides a strong legal foundation for the campaign and gives necessary protection to the rights of non-smokers.
The Ministry of Health is also carrying out an extensive public awareness campaign for the masses. Persuasion and realisation of rights of non-smokers is an integral part of our campaign.
I urge upon all citizens of Pakistan and civilised society to play active role in effective implementation of the Ordinance so that it would help realise the dream of a tobacco-free Pakistan.