Meet The 2 Indian-Origin Women Who Are Now Part Of New Canada Cabinet

Last Updated:March 15, 2025, 21:31 IST

Mark Carney, a Liberal Party member and former central banker, was sworn in as Prime Minister alongside members of the 30th Canadian Ministry on Friday at a ceremony.

Kamal Khera and Anita Anand. (X)

Two prominent Indo-Canadian politicians, Anita Anand and Delhi-born Kamal Khera, have secured positions in new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s cabinet.

Carney, a Liberal Party member and former central banker, was sworn in as Prime Minister alongside members of the 30th Canadian Ministry on Friday at a ceremony presided over by Governor General Mary Simon in Ottawa.

“Canada, meet your new cabinet. We’ve built a smaller, focused, and experienced team that is made to meet this moment," Carney said in a post on X along with the photo of his cabinet after the swearing in ceremony.

Anand, 58, assumed the role of Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, while 36-year-old Khera, one of the youngest women ever elected to the Canadian Parliament, became the Minister of Health.

Both the leaders are among the few retaining their ministerial posts, albeit with different portfolios, from former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet.

Who Is Kamal Khera?

Khera, born in Delhi, moved to Canada with her family during her school years and later obtained her Bachelor of Science degree from York University in Toronto.

Her political journey began in 2015 when she became one of the youngest women elected to Parliament as the representative for Brampton West.

Throughout her career, she has served as Minister of Seniors, held various Parliamentary Secretary roles, and worked as a registered nurse specializing in oncology.

“As a nurse, my top priority is to always be there to support my patients and that’s the same mentality I’ll bring every day to the role of Minister of Health. Extremely grateful for the confidence of PM @MarkJCarney. Now, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work," she said in a post on X.

Who Is Anita Anand?

Anand, who initially considered running as Trudeau’s replacement, withdrew from the race and reversed her decision not to seek re-election, citing Canada’s critical juncture.

Elected in 2019 as a Member of Parliament for Oakville, she has held positions as President of the Treasury Board, Minister of Defence, and Minister of Public Services and Procurement.

Her background encompasses scholarship, law, and research, including a professorship at the University of Toronto.

“I am honoured to be sworn in as the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development in @MarkJCarney’s Government. We know that negativity won’t pay the rent or the mortgage. Negativity won’t bring down the price of groceries. Negativity won’t win a trade war. We are united and strong and we will immediately get to work, to build the Canada and the Canadian economy of tomorrow," she said in a post on X.

Carney’s cabinet comprises 13 men and 11 women, a smaller group compared to Trudeau’s 37 members, reflecting a focus on experience and efficiency.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ottawa, Canada

News world Meet The 2 Indian-Origin Women Who Are Now Part Of New Canada Cabinet