Harness solar energy to combat climate change: Modi

New Delhi, December 2

Solar energy is the answer to the current global threat to the environment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday.

Modi, who was speaking at an event to flag off a battery-powered bus for ferrying Parliamentarians, said countries across the globe will have to work on how to harness solar energy.

Modi, who attended the CoP-21 summit in Paris earlier this month, spoke of two initiatives — Mission Innovation, launched jointly by the US, France and India with the help of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for developing green technology and International Solar Alliance of countries with abundant sunlight, which will be have its headquarters in Delhi — to combat the threat.

"There are 122 nations which get the benefit of sunrays for more than 300 days in a year. With India's initiative, an organisation of such nations has been formed," Modi said.

Among the resolutions passed in Paris are innovations ensure the world is fossil free.

"US, France and India have taken initiatives for innovation. The Bill Gates Foundation has also been associated with it," he said.

Mosi said battery-powered buses would not only help reduce pollution significantly but also encourage innovation. The bus, was gifted by Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari.  

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar was also present at the event. — PTI