Tech industry body National Association of Software and Service Companies (Nasscom) has nominated Dr Ganesh Natarajan, Deputy Chairman & Managing Director of Zensar, as its new Chairman for the financial year 2008-09.

Dr Natarajan, associated with Nasscom for many years, replaces Lakshmi Narayanan of Cognizant Technology Solutions as chairman.

He also assisted the apex industry body in establishing various initiatives centered on novelty, as well as for the small and medium enterprises.

The industry body has also announced the appointment of Mr. Pramod Bhasin, President and CEO of Genpact, as the new Vice-Chairman for the year.

The appointment, which took place at a decisive time when the Indian IT/BPO industry is confronting multiple fears that include worries of a looming deceleration in the US market and also the alarming sunset clause for the STPI scheme.

While announcing the appointments, Som Mittal, president, Nasscom said, “An industry veteran, he (Dr Natarajan) is immensely respected and regarded by peers and colleagues not only for his adept leadership but also for his keen knowledge and focus on innovation.”

Dr. Natarajan said, “It is an honour to be the Chairman of Nasscom at a critical time for the industry. Creativity, community and collaboration would help sustain the growth momentum of the industry. The inherent creativity of this industry's people can be translated into commercial innovations to keep our leadership position intact and unleashing the power of community within and across industry segments will ensure that we remain buoyant in all market segments and geographies.”

India's IT exports, including hardware exports, are expected to cross $40.8 billion in full year 2008 against $31.9 billion in 2007, a growth of 28 percent.