Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination has approved the “Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (Regulation) Bill, 2025” and decided to retain the existing four-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program. The committee raised concerns over the administrative affairs of the Health Services Academy, Islamabad, during a meeting chaired by Senator Amir Waliuddin Chishti.
According to Senate of Pakistan, the meeting deliberated on several public health issues, including the regulation of electronic nicotine delivery systems, formula milk promotion, and the proposed extension of the BDS program. The committee unanimously recommended the e-cigarette regulation bill after expressing dissatisfaction over delays in its processing. The bill had been pending since its introduction by Senator Sarmad Ali in December 2025.
The committee also reviewed the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority’s compliance with directives on formula milk advertisements. Members called for stronger warnings about formula milk, emphasizing the need for prominent packaging warnings and voice-over messages in advertisements. The Chairperson of PEMRA informed the committee about an upcoming summit focused on malnutrition and maternal and child health.
Regarding the BDS program, officials from the Ministry of National Health Services and the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council proposed extending the program to five years to align with international standards. However, the committee decided to retain the four-year program, stressing the importance of curriculum improvement and stakeholder consultation before implementing major educational reforms.
The committee also addressed concerns raised by Senator Jan Muhammad about the alleged eviction of Balochistan students from Health Services Academy hostels. The committee expressed displeasure over the Vice Chancellor’s administrative performance and absence from the meeting. Members requested formal communication of their concerns to the President of Pakistan and suggested legislative measures to improve the academy’s governance and oversight.