Climate change is a global challenge but it's not of our making, says Modi at Paris summit

By 2030, 40% of India’s installed capacity will be based on non-fossil fuel, says PM

Paris

: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India must lead the way in combating climate change, while speaking at the climate summit in Paris.

'I speak not just to the world but our own people, India must lead the way in combating climate change', Modi said at the conference where more than 150 world leaders gathered for global climate talks.

'Recycling and conservation comes naturally to India. By 2030, 40% of our installed capacity will be based on non-fossil fuel, said the Prime Minister.

Modi said that climate change is the result of global warming that came from an industrial age powered by fossil fuel and urged nations to act with urgency to restore the balance between humanity and nature.

'We want a comprehensive equitable and durable agreement in Paris', he further added.

PM @narendramodi: Our commitment to tackle climate change arises from our timeless traditions and beliefs.

Earlier, Modi had written an elaborate article in the UK's leading financial daily, timed to coincide with the launch of COP 21 conference on climate change, in which he said, "Some say advanced countries powered their way to prosperity on fossil fuel when humanity was unaware of its impact." In a blunt warning to rich nations, Modi told developed countries which powered their way to prosperity on fossil fuels that it would be "morally wrong" if they shift the burden of reducing emissions on developing countries like India. "Since science has moved on and alternative energy sources are available, they argue that those just beginning their development journey bear no less responsibility than those who have reached the zenith of their progress. New awareness, however, should lead advanced countries to assume more responsibility. Just because technology exists does not mean it is affordable and accessible." "Justice demands that, with what little carbon we can still safely burn, developing countries are allowed to grow. The lifestyles of a few must not crowd out opportunities for the many still on the first steps of the development ladder," the Prime Minister wrote.