Anita Anand Takes Oath as Foreign Minister of Canada with Hands on Bhagavad Gita.

Indian-origin Anita Anand takes oath as Canada’s foreign minister, with her hands on Bhagavad Gita. She is the first Woman Hindu Minister in Canada.

Sangita Saxena | HENB | New Delhi | May 14, 2025:: In a historic moment, Anita Anand, a Canadian politician of Indian origin, has become the country’s first Hindu woman Foreign Minister. What makes her swearing-in ceremony particularly significant is that she took her oath with her hands on the Bhagavad Gita, a revered Hindu scripture.

Anita has made history by becoming the country’s first Hindu woman Foreign Minister. Born in Nova Scotia, Canada, to parents from Punjab and Tamil Nadu, Anand’s Indian heritage is a significant aspect of her identity. Anita is now 57.

The current Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney, has appointed Indian-origin Canadian politician Anita Anand to his cabinet. Anita Anand has been appointed as the Minister of Foreign Affairs in Carney’s cabinet.

This gesture not only underscores her personal connection to her faith but also highlights the growing influence of Indian culture and diaspora in Canadian politics. Anand’s appointment as Foreign Minister is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and commitment to public service.

A Trailblazing Journey

Anand’s journey is an inspiration to many. Born in Nova Scotia, Canada, to parents from Punjab and Tamil Nadu, she has built a remarkable career as a lawyer, academic, and politician. With four degrees, including a gold medal in Political Studies from Queen’s University and law degrees from Oxford University, Dalhousie University, and the University of Toronto, Anand has demonstrated her academic prowess and dedication to her craft. She taught at Yale University before joining politics.

Amazing political career

This 57-year-old politician first entered the Canadian Parliament in 2019. After that, she has held four important cabinet positions. She was given the responsibility of Public Services of Canada. After that, she was given the responsibility of a special ministry during the Corona period. She has also led important ministries like National Defense. At that time, Anita played a significant role in helping Zelensky’s country in the Russia-Ukraine war. In July 2023, she was given the responsibility of the Treasury Board instead of Defense. In September 2024, she was given the responsibility of Canada’s Minister of Transport and International Trade.

A New Chapter in Canadian Politics

Anand’s appointment as Foreign Minister marks a new era in Canadian politics, one that celebrates diversity and representation. As Canada’s first Hindu cabinet minister, she has broken barriers and paved the way for others to follow in her footsteps. With her expertise and experience, Anand is poised to make a lasting impact on Canadian politics and foreign policy.

Fostering Stronger Ties with India

As Foreign Minister, Anand will play a crucial role in shaping Canada’s diplomatic relationships and foreign policy. With her Indian heritage and extensive experience, she is well-positioned to foster stronger ties between Canada and India. Her appointment has sparked interest in the future of Canada-India bilateral relations, and many are eager to see how she will navigate these complex diplomatic waters.
..
__Agency inputs.