Bengaluru, Jul 31 (IANS): Tech giant Cisco on Monday named Sameer Garde as President for its India and Saarc operations. A former Philips Healthcare executive, Garde would join the company on August 1.

He succeeds Dinesh Malkani who is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities, the company said in a statement.

"This is the perfect time for Sameer to become Cisco India and Saarc's next President. With our mission to provide the government and customers the right foundation for their digital initiatives, Sameer will play an integral role in our continued growth and innovation," said Irving Tan, President, Cisco Asia-Pacific and Japan.

Garde will be responsible for Cisco's senior-level external engagement, including those with government and industry associations.

Malkani would continue to be associated with the company as strategic advisor till September 2017 to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.

"We will continue our long-term strategic focus on India through our investments in innovation, skills training and digital transformation," said Garde.

"Areas like manufacturing, education and healthcare will also help us drive growth in India," he added.

On verticals/business units that he believes will help reach the $2 billion India revenue target, Garde said the company continues to see strong momentum across service providers, bank and financial institutions and the government.