Indian priest George Koovakad elevated as cardinal by Pope Francis

In a grand consistory held in the Vatican on Saturday, 51-year-old Indian priest George Jacob Koovakad was elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis. "It is a matter of immense pride for India that Archbishop George Koovakad will be created as a Cardinal by His Holiness Pope Francis," Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on 'X' on Saturday. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his message, extended all greetings to the new cardinal, saying the elevation of priest George Koovakad is a recognition for the Christian community in India and Kerala and especially the Syro Malabar Church. The Indian delegation headed by Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian, comprising former Union Ministers of State Kodikkunnil Suresh, former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, BJP leaders Anil Antony, Anoop Antony, and Tom Vadakkan also witnessed the ordination ceremony.