David Attenborough launches new initiative to protect 30% of world's oceans
This initiative is led by the NGO Dynamic Planet and the National Geographic Society's Pristine Seas programme and will assist local communities in their efforts to establish "marine protected areas" in coastal waters."The worst enemy of fishing is overfishing," Enric Sala, executive director of National Geographic Pristine Seas told Reuters.
Implementation of this treaty in the present year is essential to meet the global targets. (Photo: Getty)
The researchers also mentioned that protecting marine areas would have economic benefits, by improving fishing yields and boosting tourism.They also said Marine Protected Areas (MPA) creation has been far too slow, noting that more than 190,000 protected areas would need to be established in order to meet the "30 by 30" target - to bring 30% of the oceans under formal protection by 2030.advertisement"Reviving marine life revives local economies and communities. It's time for the world to recognise that MPAs are the building blocks of the blue economy," said Kristin Rechberger, the founder of Revive Our Ocean.The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, which was signed in 2023 to protect ocean biodiversity, was signed by more than 100 countries, but ratified by just 21.The countries, except the United States, are meeting in New York this year to discuss further measures to be taken. Whereas the treaty needs ratification by 60 countries to come into force."Countries are pulling out all the stops to fast-track ratification in several places," said Rebecca Hubbard, director of the High Seas Alliance.Implementation of this treaty in the present year is essential to meet the global targets, as only 8% or 29 million square kilometres of oceans are protected.
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Economic Times
3 hours ago
- Economic Times
Robert Clive: Why the founder of British Indian empire slit his own throat
iStock Robert Clive the first British Governor of the Bengal Presidency 18th Century On a grey November morning in 1774, London was buzzing with a shocking story. Robert Clive, Baron Clive of Plassey, called by some the founder of Britain's Indian Empire and by others its 'most shameless plunderer', was Walpole, the witty politician, told friends Clive had 'cut his own throat.' Lady Mary Coke, an English noblewoman, wrote in her diary that he had 'killed himself.' Some said a razor was found by his side, others whispered about opium. The coroner's report gave no clear cause, but many believed Britain's most famous 'nabob' had ended his own life. It was, some thought, a fitting end for a man whose rise had been as ruthless as his fall. Also Read: After Jhansi ki Rani, another queen fought the BritishRobert Clive was born in 1725 in the small Shropshire village of Styche. As a boy, he was described in books as restless, quick-tempered, and full of ambition. Local tales say he once climbed a church tower and sat on the edge, legs dangling high above the ground, showing early that he was not easily scared. At around 19, with little to keep him in England, Clive sailed to Madras as a junior clerk for the East India Company. It was 1744, and the Company was still a trading business, not yet an empire. But India at that time was divided between rival princes and competing European powers. In this chaos, Clive's boldness, cunning, and skill for planning found their place. By 1751, the French-backed Chanda Sahib threatened British influence in southern India. Clive, still only a junior officer, proposed seizing Arcot, a bold strike deep in enemy territory. Marching 200 British troops and 300 sepoys through monsoon rains, he took the town without resistance. For 50 days, his force held against an army ten times its Thomas Babington Macaulay romanticised this siege, '…the commander who had to conduct the defence… had been bred as a book-keeper… After three desperate onsets, the besiegers retired… the garrison lost only five or six men.'William Pitt the Elder, Prime Minister, called him a 'heaven-born general,' a title Clive wore proudly, though he had never had formal military Read: When Bengali gym bros flexed muscles against the BritishSix years later came the event that made Clive's name, and his fortune. In 1756, Siraj-ud-Daulah, the new Nawab of Bengal, took control of Calcutta. After the 'Black Hole' incident, where many British captives died, Clive set out to retake the 23 June 1757, at Plassey, Clive faced 50,000 men with only 3,000. But the real battle had been fought in secret, key Nawabi commanders, including Mir Jafar, had already been promised British gold and power. The Nawab's army broke apart before any large in Britain called it military genius. Others saw it as plain bribery and betrayal. Either way, Bengal, the richest province in India, passed into Company control. Historians agree this was a turning point in the creation of British rule in returned to England in 1760 with a fortune that made him one of the wealthiest men in the country, £234,000 in cash from Bengal's new ruler, plus a jagir worth £30,000 a year. He bought estates, secured a seat in Parliament, and in 1762 was made Baron Clive of Plassey. Pitt repeated his 'heaven-born general' the public mood was shifting. To many, Clive and his fellow 'nabobs' were symbols of greed. In Parliament, he was accused of plunder and corruption. His infamous defence, that he was 'astonished at my own moderation' given how much more he might have taken, only deepened his villainous image. Also Read: Narco-colonialism: How Britain exploited Indians for its drug trade with China By 1765, Bengal's finances were collapsing under Company misrule. Clive returned, this time to consolidate rather than conquer. At the Treaty of Allahabad, he secured from the Mughal Emperor the diwani, the right to collect taxes in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. This single stroke made the Company the true ruler of restructured the army, raised salaries to curb petty graft, and banned officials from accepting private gifts, not out of altruism, but to ensure the Company's monopoly on wealth. When he left in 1767, he had built the fiscal skeleton of the British Raj, a system designed to feed London's coffers at Bengal's in England, famine in Bengal (1769–1773) stirred outrage. Critics linked it to the Company's revenue demands, and Clive was twice called before Parliament. Though exonerated in 1773, the inquiries dragged on his health and reputation. Edmund Burke and other MPs painted him as the embodiment of imperial body failed him, too. He suffered from gallstones, dulled the pain with opium, and sank into depression. On 22 November 1774, he was found dead at his home in Berkeley Square. Horace Walpole told the story of the razor. Historic UK later wrote bluntly that he 'committed suicide by cutting his own throat.'Some still call Clive the 'Founder of the British Empire in India.' Others, like historian William Dalrymple, have called him 'a vicious asset-stripper.' The National Army Museum calls him 'a greedy speculator.' Perhaps, as noted in many modern reports, he was both: a man who built the foundations of Britain's Indian empire while filling his own pockets. His life's story is one of conquest without mercy, wealth without pity, and an end as dark as the means by which he rose.
India Today
4 hours ago
- India Today
Why Independence came late for these Indians in 1947
India's independence from British colonial rule was officially declared on August 15, 1947, and the day has since been celebrated nationwide with great pride. However, in two districts of West Bengal, primarily in Nadia and parts of Malda, Independence Day holds a special significance on August unusual observance is not just a matter of local pride but a reminder of a complicated chapter in India's partition history. Due to a cartographic error by the Boundary Commission during the division of British India and delays in finalising territorial boundaries, some areas of Nadia were mistakenly included in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).advertisementAfter protests and a correction ordered by then-Viceroy Lord Mountbatten, these areas were officially recognised as part of India only on the night of August 17, 1947. Consequently, the Indian flag was hoisted there on August 18, marking their true day of freedom. Since 1991, the people of these districts have commemorated August 18 as Independence Day alongside the national celebrations on August 15, creating a unique dual observance that highlights this local history of resilience and CARTOGRAPHIC ERROR THAT CHANGED HISTORYWhen British India was partitioned, the Radcliffe Line, drawn by Cyril Radcliffe, was meant to divide territories between India and Pakistan. However, this boundary line mistakenly placed parts of Nadia district, including areas with predominantly Hindu populations, into East Pakistan. This error caused immediate unrest and fears among the local people, who were uncertain about their future and people of Nadia, including leaders and influential families, protested vigorously against the inclusion of their districts in East of these protests reached the outgoing British Viceroy, Lord Mountbatten, who then instructed Radcliffe to rectify the boundary error. As a result, a redrawn map correcting the mistake was announced on the night of August 17, the boundary revision, the Pakistani flag that had been hoisted in parts of Nadia was taken down, and the Indian Tricolour was raised on August 18, date has since been celebrated locally as the true day when these areas achieved independence from colonial rule and became part of India.A SYMBOL OF HISTORICAL MEMORY AND LOCAL IDENTITYToday, the August 18 Independence Day celebration reflects the community's deep connection to its history and identity. It serves as a reminder of the complex and sometimes painful process of partition and celebrations are supported by local officials, cultural groups, and even the Border Security Force, ensuring this unique tradition continues to thrive alongside India's broader national August 15 remains India's official Independence Day, August 18 stands as a powerful symbol in parts of Nadia district to commemorate their late but meaningful freedom, a story of correction, resilience, and pride that enriches the tapestry of India's independence narrative.- Ends
India Today
6 hours ago
- India Today
29+ short Independence Day speeches for school students to inspire patriotism
Independence Day is one of the most important national festivals in India, celebrated every year on 15th August to honour the country's freedom from British rule in 1947. In schools, it is marked with flag hoisting, cultural programs, and heartfelt speeches by students, teachers, and an effective Independence Day speech helps students express their patriotism, improve public speaking skills, and connect with the significance of the OF INDEPENDENCE DAY SPEECHES IN SCHOOLSIndependence Day speeches play a vital role in instilling national pride amongst students. They:Educate about India's history and freedom struggle. Encourage respect for the sacrifices of freedom civic responsibility and students' confidence in public OF A GOOD INDEPENDENCE DAY SPEECHA well-crafted speech should have:Strong Opening: Greeting the audience and stating the Background: Key events of the freedom to Freedom Fighters: Mention of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhas Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Rani Lakshmibai, Scenario: Achievements and progress of India since Vision: Hopes and responsibilities for building a better Lines: Patriotic message or OF SPEECHES FOR SCHOOL STUDENTSDepending on the student's grade and speaking style, speeches can be:Short Speeches (1–2 minutes) – For primary Speeches (3–4 minutes) – For middle school Speeches (5+ minutes) – For senior students or Speeches – Mixing Hindi and English for wider Speeches – Focused on specific topics like women freedom fighters, youth in nation building, or technological progress.1. GENERAL INDEPENDENCE DAY SPEECHGood morning respected Principal, teachers, and my dear we are gathered here to celebrate our Independence Day. On 15th August 1947, India became free from British rule after a long struggle. Many freedom fighters sacrificed their lives for our freedom. It is our duty to remember them and work hard for our country's progress. Let us promise to be good citizens and make our nation Hind!2. TRIBUTE TO FREEDOM FIGHTERSRespected teachers and friends,Today is a very special day for every Indian. Independence Day reminds us of the courage and sacrifices of heroes like Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, and Rani Lakshmibai. Because of them, we are free today. Let us respect our freedom and work together for a better Bharat!3. YOUTH AND INDEPENDENCEGood morning everyone,On this Independence Day, I want to remind all my friends that we are the future of India. Freedom is not just a gift; it is a responsibility. Let's study well, help others, and make India Independence Day!4. ROLE OF STUDENTSGood morning respected Principal, teachers, and dear friends,Today we celebrate the day India got her freedom. As students, our role is to learn, work hard, and become good citizens. Our small actions can make a big difference for the Hind!5. MY VISION FOR INDIAHello everyone,My dream for India is to see it clean, educated, and peaceful. Independence Day reminds us to work towards this dream. Together, we can make it Hind!6. REMEMBERING 15 AUGUST 1947Respected teachers and friends,On 15th August 1947, our country became free after 200 years of British rule. It was a day of joy and pride for every Indian. Let us never forget this historic Hind!7. UNITY IN DIVERSITYGood morning everyone,India is a land of many cultures, languages, and religions. But we are united as Indians. This is our strength, and Independence Day is the perfect time to celebrate Independence Day!8. FREEDOM IS RESPONSIBILITYGood morning respected teachers and dear friends,Freedom is precious, and it comes with responsibility. Let us promise to be honest, helpful, and hardworking citizens. That is the best way to honour our Hind!9. REMEMBERING MAHATMA GANDHIGood morning everyone,Mahatma Gandhi taught us the path of truth and non-violence. On Independence Day, let us remember his teachings and follow them in our Hind!10. SALUTE TO THE FLAGRespected Principal, teachers, and friends,Our tricolour flag is a symbol of our pride and unity. Let us always respect it and keep its honour Independence Day!11. PROGRESS SINCE INDEPENDENCEHello everyone,Since 1947, India has made great progress in science, education, and technology. Let us work hard to continue this growth and make India the Hind!12. TRIBUTE TO UNSUNG HEROESGood morning,Many heroes of our freedom struggle are not mentioned in books, but their sacrifices are priceless. Today, let us remember and thank them Bharat!13. LOVE FOR THE COUNTRYRespected teachers and friends,Patriotism means loving our country through our actions. Let us be disciplined, kind, and helpful to make India Hind!14. INSPIRATION FROM THE PASTGood morning everyone,The struggle of our freedom fighters inspires us to be brave and strong. Let us use that inspiration to face today's Hind!15. CLEAN INDIA, STRONG INDIAHello friends,If we want to honour our freedom, we must keep our country clean. A clean India is a strong India. Let us start from our home and Independence Day!16. EDUCATION FOR A BETTER NATIONGood morning everyone,Education is the key to a strong and independent nation. As students, our best gift to India is to study well and become responsible Hind!17. ROLE OF FARMERSRespected teachers and friends,Our farmers work hard to feed the nation. On Independence Day, let us salute them and support their Hind!18. REMEMBERING SUBHAS CHANDRA BOSEGood morning everyone,Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose said, 'Give me blood and I will give you freedom.' His courage inspires us even today. Let us follow his spirit of dedication to the Hind!19. CHILDREN AS FUTURE LEADERSHello everyone,We children are the future leaders of India. Let us learn honesty, kindness, and hard work to build a better Independence Day!20. FREEDOM FROM POVERTY AND ILLITERACYGood morning respected teachers,Our freedom will be complete only when there is no poverty or illiteracy. Let us work together to achieve that Hind!21. KEEPING INDIA UNITEDRespected teachers and friends,We must protect the unity of our nation. A united India is a strong India. Let us not let differences divide Hind!22. CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTSHello everyone,Today we celebrate not just our freedom, but also our achievements in space, sports, and technology. Let's work for even more Independence Day!23. DREAM OF 2047Good morning,By 2047, India will complete 100 years of independence. Let us dream of a developed, peaceful, and strong India, and work towards Hind!24. INDEPENDENCE AND DISCIPLINEHello friends,Freedom does not mean doing anything we want. It means living with discipline and respect for others. That is true Hind!25. YOUNG FREEDOM FIGHTERSGood morning,Bhagat Singh, Khudiram Bose, and Chandrashekhar Azad were young when they fought for freedom. They prove that youth can change the Hind!26. VALUE OF FREEDOMRespected teachers and friends,We did not get freedom for free—it came after great sacrifice. Let us value it and protect Independence Day!27. OUR NATIONAL SYMBOLSGood morning everyone,Our national symbols, like the flag, anthem, and emblem, represent our identity. Let us always respect Hind!28. FREEDOM THROUGH NON-VIOLENCEHello friends,India's freedom struggle showed that non-violence can be stronger than weapons. Let us solve problems Hind!29. THANK YOU TO ARMED FORCESGood morning everyone,Our soldiers guard our borders day and night. Let us thank them and respect their sacrifices on this Independence Hind!30. EVERYDAY PATRIOTISMHello everyone,Patriotism is not just for one day. If we are honest, kind, and hardworking every day, we are true Independence Day!- EndsMust Watch
