In a fairly slow start, the two teams interchanged possession in midfield without giving each other any real chances for goal.
India came closest with a penalty corner in the eighth minute, which was saved. In the final minute of the first quarter, Ajit Pandey scored to give the India the lead.
Canberra Lakers made a strong comeback at the start of the second quarter, and soon earned a penalty corner which was converted by Stuart Shepherd in the 17th minute to draw level.
India kept up the pressure in the final quarter, whereas Canberra were happy to sit back and defend.
India play Tassie Tigers in their next Pool B encounter tomorrow.