Anita Anand: Canada's New Foreign Minister with Deep Indian Roots

First Hindu Woman to Hold the Position, Sworn in with Hand on the Bhagavad Gita

Anita Anand, a Canadian politician of Indian origin, has been appointed as Canada's new Foreign Minister. Sworn in on May 13, 2025, she made history as the first Hindu woman to hold the position. Anand reaffirmed her cultural heritage by taking the oath with her hand on the Bhagavad Gita, a tradition she has upheld since her initial Cabinet appointment in 2019. Born in Kentville, Nova Scotia, to parents from Tamil Nadu and Punjab, Anand has previously served in various significant roles, including Minister of National Defence and Minister of Transport. Her appointment underscores the growing representation of Indian-origin leaders in global politics.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday announced a reshuffle in his cabinet in which Indian-origin Anita Anand has been appointed as Foreign Minister. After this, she did graduation and post-graduation in law from Dalhousie University and University of Toronto. In 1995, she married a Canadian lawyer and business executive John Knowlton.

AP, Toronto. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday announced a reshuffle in his cabinet in which Indian-origin Anita Anand has been appointed as Foreign Minister.

A Hindu woman becomes Canada's Foreign Minister for the first time

He has taken this step under the formation of the recently re-elected Liberal government. Anita Anand took oath as the new Foreign Minister on Tuesday with her hand on the Gita. She is also the first Hindu woman to become Canada's Foreign Minister.

Canada is dealing with many foreign affairs challenges. Carney, who replaced Justin Trudeau earlier this year and won the election last month, has appointed Anita Anand as Foreign Minister in place of Melanie Joly. Melanie Joly has been named industry minister. Anita Anand has previously held several roles, including defense minister.