Nature is meant to nurture, not to exploit: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday stressed on the importance of the role of nature in climate change and said that nature is meant to provide and nurture, and not for exploitation.

"We have always believed that Nature does not exist for human race, but that we can't exist without Nature. So Nature is meant to provide and nurture, not to exploit," Prime Minister Modi said after inaugurating the India Pavilion here.

He said when nature is in equilibrium, lives of people and the world will be in balance.

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"This is what we learn from Kshetrapati Sukta in our Rig Veda. To the people of India and our friends, I call you to live with the commitment of 'Lokah Samastah Sukhina Bhavantu'. The desire of well-being should include our planet, nature, all countries and the entire humanity," he added.

Prime Minister in his speech approached the negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in a spirit of partnership.

"Our commitment to tackle climate change arises from our timeless traditions and beliefs," he said.

"In India, Nature has always been treated as Mother. Since ancient times, we have seen humanity as part of Nature, not superior to it. The divine has manifested in Nature's diverse forms," he added.