Indian-Origin Anita Anand Becomes Canada's Defence Minister In Trudeau Cabinet Shuffle
Know who is Anita Anand, minister who takes charge of her defence role at a significant time, with calls for a serious overhaul in the functions of Canadian military practices.
Who is Anita Anand: The Indian-origin politician took charge as Canada's Minister of National Defence in the recent cabinet reshuffle under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. A month after the Liberal Party returned to power after their snap poll victory, Anita Anand took oath in Ottawa along with other ministers on Tuesday. She succeeds India born Harjit Sajjan, who is caught in controversy over inaction regarding sexual misconduct allegations in the military.
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While it is not uncommon to see Indians in top roles in the North American country, Anita Anand is notably the first woman of Indian origin (and only the second woman ever) to assume role as Canada's Defence Minister. Kim Campbell, who also later became the country's first and only woman Prime Minister, was Anand's predecessor on the defence seat in the early 1990s.
"It is my sincere honour to be sworn in today as Minister of National Defence," Anand
— Anita Anand (@AnitaOakville) October 26, 2021 post her oath-taking, alongside a picture.
It is my sincere honour to be sworn in today as Minister of National Defence. Thank you @JustinTrudeau for entrusting me with this portfolio. pic.twitter.com/4QpXA5hcL6
Oakville-based Anand is the daughter of physician parents who were from Tamil Nadu and Punjab. She is a lawyer by education and has previously held teaching positions at the University of Toronto, Queen's University and Yale Law School. She is married and has four children.
As per reports, Anand specialises in corporate governance and market regulations. She has served on government committees for financial planning and legislation. In 2019, she made her first step into politics as a Member of Parliament for Oakville. As the procurement minister for Canada's COVID-19 force, Anand was reportedly in charge of the vaccine supply chain from India.
Anand takes charge of her defence role at a significant time, with calls for a serious overhaul in the functions of Canadian military practices. Shocking allegations of sexual misconduct against top military officers have emerged this past year, with many facing investigation and criminal charges.
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Anand's appointment to the position, as per political commentators, is expected to be a symbol of change and hope for survivors and women of the country.
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