In a landmark moment for Canada’s Indo-Canadian community, Anita Anand, Member of Parliament (MP) from Oakville East, has been appointed Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, becoming the first woman of Hindu heritage to hold this prestigious portfolio. Sworn in on May 13, with her hand on the Bhagavad Gita, Anand headlines a diverse cabinet under Prime Minister Mark Carney, which includes three other Indian-origin leaders: Maninder Sidhu as Minister of International Trade, and Ruby Sahota and Randeep Sarai as Secretaries of State.
Anita Anand, 58, born to Indian immigrant parents — a Tamil mother, Saroj, and a Punjabi father, S V Anand, both physicians — has shattered glass ceilings throughout her career. Raised in Kentville, Nova Scotia, Anand’s academic journey took her to Queen’s University, Oxford, and the University of Toronto, where she earned a law degree and later became a distinguished professor. Her political ascent began in 2019 when she was elected MP for Oakville, becoming the first Hindu woman in Canada’s House of Commons.
Anand’s ministerial record is formidable. As Minister of Public Services and Procurement (2019–2021), she spearheaded Canada’s Covid-19 vaccine procurement, earning global praise for securing millions of doses. She later served as Minister of National Defence (2021–2024), overseeing military modernization and Canada’s support for Ukraine. Her appointment as Foreign Minister, replacing Mélanie Joly, positions her as a key architect of Canada’s global diplomacy amid tensions with the US over trade and security.
Here are the other in Indian-origin leaders in Mark Carney’s Cabinet:
Maninder Sidhu: Trade Champion from Brampton Maninder Sidhu, 42, MP for Brampton East, steps into the role of Minister of International Trade, a critical portfolio as Canada navigates US tariff threats under President Donald Trump. Born in Punjab, India, Sidhu immigrated to Canada as a child, growing up in Brampton’s vibrant Punjabi community. A business graduate from the University of Toronto, he worked as a real estate professional and community organizer before entering politics.
Elected in 2019, Sidhu has been a vocal advocate for small businesses and trade diversification, particularly with India and the Indo-Pacific. His Punjabi heritage and fluency in Punjabi have strengthened ties with Brampton’s South Asian electorate. As a Liberal MP, he served on the Standing Committee on International Trade, preparing him to lead Canada’s trade strategy. “Maninder’s grassroots connection and trade expertise will drive economic growth,” said Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown.
(From left): Maninder Sidhu, Ruby Sahota and Randeep Sarai
Ruby Sahota: Tackling Crime in Brampton Ruby Sahota, 44, MP for Brampton North—Caledon, has been named Secretary of State for Combatting Crime, a role supporting the Minister of Public Safety. Born in Toronto to Punjabi parents who immigrated from Punjab, Sahota’s Indian heritage shapes her community-focused approach. A law graduate from the University of Saskatchewan, she practiced immigration and family law before entering politics.
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Elected in 2015, Sahota became one of the first Indo-Canadian women MPs. Known for her work on youth engagement and public safety, she chaired the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs. Her new role addresses rising concerns about gang violence and organized crime in Brampton, a priority for her constituents. “Ruby’s legal background and community ties make her ideal to tackle crime,” said a local community leader.
Randeep Sarai: Advancing Global Development Randeep Sarai, 50, MP for Surrey Centre, assumes the role of Secretary of State for International Development, supporting Canada’s foreign aid and global partnerships. Born in Punjab, India, Sarai immigrated to Canada at age 11, settling in British Columbia’s Sikh heartland. A lawyer by training, he founded a successful legal practice in Surrey, focusing on real estate and immigration law.
Elected in 2015, Sarai has championed multiculturalism and economic opportunities for Surrey’s diverse communities. His work on the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration informs his new role, where he will oversee Canada’s development aid, including programs in South Asia. “Randeep’s journey from Punjab to Parliament embodies the Canadian dream,” said Surrey Councillor Mandeep Nagra.
The 2025 Canadian federal election saw a record 22 Indian-origin candidates elected to the House of Commons, with 65 candidates of Indian descent contesting across parties.
© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd
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