India contends that the developed countries must bear a bigger burden than developing countries to control climate change, since they had contributed largely to pollution over the last 200 years.

India's 25-member delegation will focus on PM Modi's call for "climate justice" and "common but differentiated responsibilities", despite being under pressure from the developed nations to cut down on emission.

The US, which did not accept the 1997 Kyoto Protocol that set binding targets for emissions, wants India and China to cut emissions sharply by, among other things, veering away from fossil fuels.

Before leaving for Paris, PM Modi talked about the meeting and his plans in a series of tweets, the first of which read, "Leaving for Paris, where I will join @COP21. In the Summit, we will deliberate on crucial issues relating to environment & climate change."

PM Modi said at the COP21, he would inaugurate the India Pavilion, "showcasing India's harmony with nature, environment & commitment to mitigate climate change".

He said he would also jointly host a meeting of International Solar Alliance with French President Francois Hollande and attend the 'Mission Innovation' hosted by US President Barack Obama.

Earlier on Sunday, PM Modi reaffirmed his commitment to the planet in his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat. "Climate change, global warming are issues of discussion and concern," he said. "Energy conservation is the first solution to stop rising temperature. This is everyone's responsibility."

With 200 million people with no access to electricity, India has said it will not accept any restrictions on its use of coal. The nation, however, has set a target of availing 175 gigawatts of power through renewable resources by 2022.

The 12-day meeting will start on Monday in the shadow of the recent terror attacks in Paris killed 129 people.