 On 17 October 2007, Pope Benedict XVI announced that he would elevate Gracias and twenty-two other prelates to the College of Cardinals.At the consistory in St. Peter's Basilica on 24 November 2007, he was created Cardinal-Priest of San Paolo della Croce a Corviale.On 20 February 2008 Cardinal Gracias was elected 1st Vice President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) of which had earlier served as Secretary General.