Four indian-origin ministers appointed in Canada’s cabinet

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, in his newly announced 28-member cabinet on Tuesday,  included four ministers of Indian origin, highlighting the growing influence of the Indian diaspora in Canadian politics. Here are the key appointments:

Anita Anand – Minister of Foreign Affairs

Anita Anand has been appointed Canada’s new Foreign Minister, making her the first Hindu and the first woman of Indian origin to hold this position. Born in Kentville, Nova Scotia, to Tamil and Punjabi parents, she is a legal scholar with degrees from Dalhousie, the University of Toronto, and Oxford. She previously served as Minister of National Defence.

Maninder Sidhu – Minister of International trade

Representing Brampton East, Maninder Sidhu has been appointed as the Minister of International Trade. Originally from Punjab, Sidhu immigrated to Canada as a child. His role is expected to be significant amid ongoing US-Canada trade discussions. He has previously served as a parliamentary secretary.

Ruby Sahota – Secretary of State for crime prevention

MP from Brampton North since 2015, Ruby Sahota has taken on the role of Secretary of State for Crime Prevention. A former lawyer specialising in immigration and family law, she holds a law degree from the University of Saskatchewan and is known for her advocacy on youth issues.

Randeep Sarai – Secretary of State for International development

Randeep Sarai, MP for Surrey Centre, has been appointed Secretary of State for International Development. Serving his fourth term in Parliament, Sarai will oversee Canada’s global aid efforts, including humanitarian assistance, health, education, and poverty reduction initiatives.

These appointments reflect a historic rise in representation, with 22 MPs of Indian origin elected to Parliament in the 2025 general election – the highest number in Canadian history.