AnyTime News 
Celebration or Symbolism?
Anytime News Network . Ahead of its 132nd Foundation Day, Punjab National Bank (PNB) announced the second edition of ‘PNB Soldierathon 2026’, projecting it as a tribute to the Indian Armed Forces and a nationwide fitness movement. While the event carries strong patriotic messaging, questions remain over its actual impact beyond symbolism.
Branded under the theme “Run with Soldiers, Run for Soldiers,” the half marathon is being promoted as a unifying national movement. Senior bank officials claim it reinforces discipline, fitness and national pride. However, critics argue that such high-profile events often overshadow pressing issues in the banking sector, including staff shortages, service quality and financial stress.
The presence of decorated army veteran Major Dr. Surendra Poonia and PNB MD & CEO Ashok Chandra added credibility to the event. The bank also linked the theme to the success of Operation Sindoor, but there was limited clarity on tangible benefits for soldiers and veterans.
The unveiling of merchandise, medals and promotional films reflected scale and spectacle, yet the debate persists—is this genuine nation-building or corporate image-building?
