BANGALORE, INDIA: NASSCOM, the premier trade body and the chamber of commerce of the IT software and services industry in India, today announced the appointment of Pramod Bhasin chairman of its executive council for the year 2009-2010.

Pramod, who has been a member of NASSCOM executive council and is the president and CEO of Genpact, would succeed Ganesh Natarajan, who was the Chairman for the year 2008-09, said a press release.

NASSCOM also announced the appointment of Harsh Manglik as the vice chairman of the council. Harsh is the chairman and geography managing director for Accenture in India.

"Pramod brings a wealth of experience in IT–BPO sector that would be immensely relevant to the challenges facing the industry today. He is widely known for his adept leadership and ability to take bold decisions," said Som Mittal, President, NASSCOM.

He added that they were honored to welcome Harsh to the Council. His experience in global business would be a valuable asset to NASSCOM.

Mittal also thanked Ganesh for providing guidance to NASSCOM in the year of uncertainties and global turmoil.

"I am honored to be elected as the Chairman of NASSCOM at such a critical time. While we are experiencing the worst economic downturn of our life, I believe that there has never been a more relevant time for the IT-BPO Industry to prove its worth," said Pramod Bhasin.

"In these difficult times, we have the potential to help global corporations not only cut cost and preserve cash, but also become more efficient, innovative and profitable."

He added that as a part of NASSCOM, he would continue to provide leadership to the Indian IT-BPO industry globally as well as focus on key initiatives such as education, infrastructure, security and corporate governance that are crucial for the growth and reputation of the industry.