Many other nations have also reiterated existing goals for slowing global warming before a Sunday deadline for making commitments under the "Copenhagen Accord," which sets an overriding goal of limiting a rise in world temperatures to less than 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 F).

The statement said India will "endeavor" to reduce its carbon emission intensity by 20 to 25 percent by 2020 in comparison to the 2005 level.

Carbon emissions intensity refers to the amount of carbon dioxide emitted for each unit of gross domestic product.

The statement said India's actions will be legally non-binding and its carbon intensity cut target will not include emission from the agriculture sector.