The Bank is entering its next phase with a strong focus on technology-led transformation.
FinTech BizNews Service
Mumbai, 15 August, 2026: Punjab National Bank (PNB), India's leading public sector bank, celebrated the 80th Independence Day with fervour and enthusiasm at its Headquarters in Dwarka.
The celebration began with PNB MD&CEO Shri Ashok Chandra hoisting the National Flag and paying homage to Shri Lala Lajpat Rai, freedom fighter and one of the founders of PNB, in the presence of EDs, CVO, CGMs and other senior officials of PNB. This year's celebrations were held under the theme 'Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047', alongside commemorating 150 Years of Vande Mataram.
In his address, Shri Ashok Chandra, MD&CEO, PNB, said: “India’s journey since Independence is a story of remarkable transformation, resilience and rising aspirations. It took us six decades to build our first US$1 trillion economy; the next trillion was added in just seven years, and subsequent milestones have come at an even faster pace. As the country advances towards its vision of becoming a US$30 trillion economy by 2047, PNB is well positioned to contribute to this journey, with its extensive network of 10,000+ branches, more than one lakh employees, and the trust of over 18 crore customers, to support a stronger, more inclusive and developed India."
He further added, “The Bank is entering its next phase with a strong focus on technology-led transformation. Digital lending is emerging as a key driver of our growth, with the portfolio expected to cross RsArtificial Intelligence, Generative AI, quantum technology and programmable CBDC are laying the foundations for the next generation of banking. Our proposed AI and Gen AI Centre of Excellence will further strengthen our ability to develop solutions that enhance customer experience, improve operational efficiency and create value for the wider financial ecosystem. As we look ahead, our priorities are clear: to reskill and upskill our employees for a rapidly evolving banking environment; deepen financial inclusion by taking banking and credit to every section of society; and strengthen cyber resilience and customer awareness against emerging digital frauds.”
On this occasion, PNB also disbursed Rs8.6 crore in scholarships to more than 21,000 meritorious female students from SC/ST communities from govt. schools across the country under the PNB Ladli Shiksha Protsahan Yojana, supporting their continued education and aspirations. The Bank also extended educational and infrastructural support to Don Bosco Ashalayam, New Delhi, providing smart boards, medical supplies, stationery and grocery items to help create a safe, technology-enabled and child-friendly environment conducive to learning, skill development and overall well-being. Further strengthening its commitment to community welfare, PNB supported Helmet Bank in promoting road safety by facilitating the distribution of free helmets across India, with the aim of reducing fatalities caused by head injuries in road accidents.
The Independence Day celebration at PNB was further enriched by the administration of the national anthem and oath, and cultural performances by the staff.
