Indian-origin politicians Anita Anand and Kamal Khera have secured significant positions in Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s newly assembled cabinet. Anand, 58, has been appointed as Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, while Khera, 36, steps into the role of Minister of Health. Their inclusion signals a growing representation of diverse voices in Canadian leadership.
Anand, originally from Nova Scotia, boasts a strong academic and political background. Before entering public office, she was a law professor at the University of Toronto and held the prestigious J.R. Kimber Chair in Investor Protection and Corporate Governance. Elected as the Member of Parliament for Oakville in 2019, she has previously served as President of the Treasury Board and Minister of National Defence. Anand was considered a top contender to replace Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister but chose to withdraw from the race earlier this year.
Kamal Khera, born in Delhi and raised in Canada, is among the youngest women ever elected to the Canadian Parliament. She won her seat as the Member of Parliament for Brampton West in 2015. With a background as a registered nurse, Khera has previously held roles as Minister of Seniors and Parliamentary Secretary in multiple departments. Her expertise in healthcare is expected to shape her tenure as Minister of Health, where she plans to draw upon her medical experience.
Carney’s cabinet is more compact than Trudeau’s, consisting of 13 men and 11 women. The smaller team reflects a strategic move toward a more streamlined government focused on addressing urgent national priorities. The appointments of Anand and Khera not only highlight their individual capabilities but also showcase the growing leadership presence of Indian-origin women in Canada’s political landscape.
