'We have grown up in tradition where nature is worshipped': PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated a two-day conference of state environment and forest ministers and said citizens of the country have grown up with the tradition where nature is worshipped and where conserving it was of utmost importance.

"This conference will be a platform to hold detailed discussions which might be formulated in policies in the future. We have grown up in those traditions where nature is worshipped and where conserving nature is very important," Prime Minister Modi said.

"The more sensitive we are towards nature and the environment, the lesser the chance the world will get to raise questions on us. The world is tackling the challenge of global warming, but they still haven't been able to find a way," he added.

Prime Minister Modi also said that the recycling of products was a part of the lifestyle of "our ancestors."

"Until we actually bring a change in our lifestyles, all other efforts will go in vain. If we bring a change in lifestyle as minor as not using street lights on a full moon night, it will save a substantial amount of energy," he added.

Prime Minister Modi further appealed for developing lifestyles where energy could be conserved.

"There should be an environment in our schools that encourages nature conservation. We have no right to exploit nature. This is not a part of our culture. Some people think development and environment are opposites. This thought is wrong. Both can happen," he added.