Stoke, a developer of multi-access convergence gateways for network operators, announced the opening of its subsidiary Stoke Networks and the appointment of Ashim Roy as India Country Head. This expansion builds on Stoke's recent momentum in India with an investment from Reliance Technology Ventures Limited (RTVL), which is associated with Reliance Communications.

India is one of the most rapidly developing markets in the world. Stoke will leverage its new presence to expand global development capabilities, and provide local support to network operators in the region. Stoke India will be located in Bangalore.

"Given the enormous global business opportunities for Stoke products, building upon our existing presence in India is imperative for our growth and aligns with our strategic relationship with Reliance," said Stoke President and CEO Vikash Varma. "Ashim Roy has extensive experience in the telecommunications industry and proven leadership in the region. We're excited to have him join the Stoke team to help accelerate our momentum."

Gartner forecasts that the global telecommunications market will remain the single largest segment by revenues of the global information technology market, and that rising demand in emerging economies like Asia will be a major contributor to this growth. With its expansion into India, Stoke will provide support for its Asian operator base while driving development on a global scale.

"It is an exciting time to be joining the company," said Ashim Roy, Country Head for Stoke's operations in India. "Stoke's multi-access solution is enabling operators worldwide to realise the economic benefits and competitive advantages of network convergence. Our new office in Bangalore will tap local talent to contribute to the company's continued growth and innovation. I look forward to leading this effort."