New Delhi: Marking 77 Years of Freedom: PNB’s Distinguished Commemoration: The 77th Independence Day was celebrated by Punjab National Bank (PNB), the preeminent public sector bank of the nation. The commemoration was observed at its central headquarters as well as all its Circle and Zonal Offices, alongside the vast expanse of its 10,000+ branches across the country. The ennobling occasion saw the National Flag being unfurled at the PNB Head Office in Dwarka by none other than Shri Atul Kumar Goel, the MD&CEO of PNB. This significant act was performed in the distinguished presence of the Executive Directors, Chief General Managers, General Managers, and other esteemed members of the bank’s workforce.
In homage to the fallen heroes, Shri Atul Kumar Goel, the erudite MD&CEO of Punjab National Bank, remarked, “Many years ago, a covenant with destiny was forged, igniting the enduring flame of liberty. This majestic flame continues to blaze luminously, serving as an unceasing reminder of the sacrifices borne by our valiant warriors.
It is their unyielding devotion that has allowed us to thrive within a democratic fabric. We must perpetually treasure the gallantry of our valiant freedom fighters who clashed against the dominion of the British Empire, bestowing their lives to unchain India and furnish its people, along with posterity, with a future imbued with radiance and promise. Over the span of 77 years since our emancipation in 1947, India has achieved momentous strides in economic and societal advancement. From a modest GDP of Rs 2.7 lakh crore back then, our economic canvas has expanded to breach the staggering $3.75 trillion echelon, with projections indicating an imminent ascent to the $5 trillion pedestal. The global panorama now hails India as the fifth-largest economy, a far cry from yesteryears, with the horizon promising its ascendance to the esteemed rank of the third-largest economy within the impending four years. Emulating the legacy that these illustrious figures bestow upon us, we at PNB, fervently envision a realm wherein financial inclusivity, empowerment, and innovation stand in harmonious synergy.”
Expanding further, he expounded, “PNB has adorned the mantle of a substantial contributor to the nation’s economic fabric ever since our inception. This role has been shaped through transformative initiatives such as PMJDY, Mudra Loans, Kisan Credit Cards for Farmers, Fund Support for MSME Units, and the facilitation of Vehicle Financing. In the preceding year, our drive towards digital transformation culminated in the unveiling of 35 novel digital products and services, underlining our unwavering commitment to render banking services seamless and convenient for our esteemed clientele.
The zenith of our achievements is encapsulated by the unprecedented attainment of Rs 22 lakh crore in business during Q1FY24, an unprecedented milestone in PNB’s history, firmly positioning us as a formidable PSU, second only to none. However, our quest for true liberation will reach its zenith when we are emancipated from the clutches of NPA, SMA 1&2. PNB stands alone as the bank with the most remarkable reduction in slippages. As agile corporate citizens, we have endeavoured to uplift marginalized communities, bolster the dreams of multitudes, sustain robust business growth, and advance the nation’s economic prosperity.” In tandem, he delved into the financial performance of the bank, encapsulating pivotal themes encompassing the Green Revolution, White Revolution, Liberation Movement, Global Crisis, and the profound lessons ingrained within each narrative.
In tandem with this commemorative occasion, PNB extended a tribute to the eminent freedom fighter and visionary behind PNB’s inception, Shri Lala Lajpat Rai. The ceremonial event witnessed the rendition of the national anthem and the pledge, complemented by cultural performances from the esteemed bank staff.
Harmonious with its corporate social responsibility ethos, PNB, through its illustrious CSR initiative known as “PNB Prerna,” pledged its support to “Can Support” by facilitating 150 medical visits to cancer patients within the solace of their residences, with the intent to alleviate their multidimensional suffering. In a gesture of compassion, the bank also presented 30 blankets and a water cooler to the National Association for the Blind in Delhi.
