Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the historic elevation of Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, the first Indian priest to be directly appointed as a cardinal by the Vatican, as a proud milestone for the nation on December 8.
In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Modi praised Cardinal Koovakad for his dedication to humanity and offered best wishes for his future endeavors.
The federal government also sent a seven-member delegation, led by Minority Affairs Minister George Kurian, to attend the consistory on December 7 at the Vatican.
Cardinal Koovakad, 51, hails from Kerala and is part of the Syro-Malabar Church, an Eastern Catholic Church.
Pope Francis created him a cardinal during the consistory, where he emphasized unity, humility, and inclusion in the Church.
Cardinal Koovakad has had a distinguished career, serving in the Vatican's diplomatic corps since 2006, with postings in Algeria, South Korea, Iran, Costa Rica, and Venezuela.
He previously organized papal trips and holds a doctorate in canon law.
The Syro-Malabar Church expressed gratitude for the government's acknowledgment and support.
Cardinal Koovakad's journey, including his recent appointment as titular archbishop of Nisibis of the Chaldeans in Turkey on October 25.
He received his episcopal consecration on November 24 in Changanassery, his home diocese, from Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil, the head of the Syro-Malabar Church.
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