New Delhi: Punjab National Bank
(PNB), one of nation’s leading public sector banks, celebrated International
Women’s Day 2026 with a special event dedicated to recognising the
achievements, leadership, and contributions of women.
Held at PNB’s Corporate Office in New Delhi,
the event was graced by Chief Guests Major
Neelu Khanna and Dr. Dinesh
Kansal in the presence of PNB MD&CEO
Shri Ashok Chandra, Executive Directors - Shri M. Paramasivam, Shri Bibhu P.
Mahapatra, Shri D. Surendran and Shri Amit Kumar Srivastava along with senior
officials and employees of the Bank.
The event featured a special
audio-visual presentation paying tribute to the contributions of women,
showcasing inspiring stories of resilience, leadership and impact. The event
concluded with cultural performances by staff members reflecting the spirit of
creativity, confidence and inclusivity within the PNB family.
Encouraging the gathering, Ashok Chandra,
MD & CEO, Punjab National Bank (PNB), emphasised the transformative
role of both women and institutions in shaping society. He said, “Over the past
decade, our country has witnessed several landmark initiatives aimed at
advancing women’s progress, paving the way for a new chapter in the journey of
women’s development. As a bank, it is our responsibility to ensure seamless
access to financial services for women from Self-Help Groups and other
communities, thereby contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. This
vision can truly be realised when women across the country become financially
strong and empowered. While PNB remains deeply committed to supporting the advancement
of women both within and beyond the organisation, I encourage all women present
here to support and uplift one another and lead by example in building stronger
communities.”
Chief Guest Dr. Dinesh Kansal expressed appreciation for the initiative and said, “This
day celebrates the inspiring journey of women who continue to break barriers
and shape society through their strength, resilience, and determination. This
year’s theme reminds us that when we invest in women through opportunities,
mentorship, and financial empowerment, we uplift entire communities. I commend
Punjab National Bank for its continued efforts in fostering inclusion and
supporting women’s economic independence.”
Addressing all women in the gathering
Chief Guest Major Neelu Khanna emphasised, “Let us begin by focusing
on a happy and balanced mind, as it lays the foundation for a healthy body. Let
this day serve as a reminder for all of us to prioritise both our mental and
physical well-being. I am glad to see Punjab National Bank taking meaningful
initiatives towards creating a more inclusive workplace and fostering greater
opportunities for the growth and advancement of women.”
As part of the event members of
PNB Prerna, an association comprising senior women officials of the Bank and
spouses of senior bank officials that actively supports the Bank’s CSR
initiatives, spoke about Project Chetna. Under this initiative, a Menstrual
Health and Hygiene Awareness Session was conducted in collaboration with NGO Sachchi
Saheli for students of Delhi Government Schools. In addition, the Bank also highlighted its CSR initiative
with CAPED, under which awareness and screening camps for cervical, breast and
oral cancers are being organized for underprivileged women in Delhi NCR.
During the event, PNB also felicitated Priyanka Pradhan, a member of PNB
Prerna, in recognition of her remarkable accomplishments in marathon running
over the past five years.
Aligned with the global theme
“Give to Gain”, this special event reflected PNB’s continued commitment to promoting
gender equality, financial inclusion and greater opportunities for women both
within the organisation and across the communities it serves.