List of days of the year

21 August - Raj Bahadur birth anniversary

 


Raj Bahadur born on 21 August 1912, he was the leader of the Indian National Congress, who was elected a member of the Constituent Assembly of India from the state of Rajasthan. After independence, he became the first tourism minister of India.

 

21 August - P. Jeevanandham birth anniversary

 


P. Jeevanandham (21 August 1907 – 18 January 1963) also called Jeeva, was a social reformer, political leader, litterateur and one of the pioneers of the Communist and socialist movements in the state of Tamil Nadu, India.

He was not only a socio-political leader, but was also a cultural theoretician, an excellent orator, journalist and critic; and above all, a relentless fighter for the deprived. A down-to-earth person with a clean record in public life, Jeevanandham was held in high esteem by ordinary people. 

21 August - The Wildlife Protection Act was passed

 


On 21st August 1972, the Wildlife Protection Act was passed. This act was later implemented on 9th September 1972.

The Wildlife Protection Act of India was passed in 1972. This legislation, officially known as "The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972," is a crucial legal framework that aims to protect and conserve the country's diverse wildlife and their habitats. The act was enacted by the Government of India to address the alarming decline in wildlife populations due to habitat destruction, poaching, and other threats.

Key provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act include:

  1. Prohibition of Hunting: The act prohibits hunting of certain species of animals and birds, unless permitted under specific circumstances, such as scientific research or management purposes.

  2. Protected Areas: The act empowers the government to declare certain areas as wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and other protected areas. These designations provide legal protection to the flora and fauna within these areas.

  3. Regulation of Trade: The act regulates the trade in wildlife and wildlife products, making it illegal to trade in endangered or protected species without appropriate permits.

  4. Conservation Authorities: The act establishes various authorities at the national and state levels to oversee wildlife conservation efforts and enforce the provisions of the act.

  5. Penalties and Punishments: The act imposes penalties and punishments for offenses related to hunting, poaching, illegal trade, and other violations. These penalties can include fines and imprisonment.

  6. Amendment and Enforcement: Over the years, the act has been amended to strengthen its provisions and address emerging challenges to wildlife conservation.

The Wildlife Protection Act of India has played a significant role in the conservation of the country's biodiversity and the protection of endangered species. It has contributed to the establishment and management of numerous protected areas, as well as efforts to combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

 

21 August - The famous painting "Mona Lisa" was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris, France

 


On August 21, 1911, the famous painting "Mona Lisa" by Leonardo da Vinci was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris, France. The theft of the painting caused a significant sensation and captured worldwide attention.

The theft was carried out by an Italian handyman named Vincenzo Peruggia, who had previously worked at the Louvre. Peruggia managed to hide inside the museum overnight and then took advantage of the fact that the museum was closed on Mondays. He removed the painting from its display and concealed it under his clothing.

Peruggia's motive for stealing the painting was rooted in his belief that the "Mona Lisa" should be returned to Italy. He viewed it as a national treasure that had been wrongfully taken by France. He intended to bring the painting back to Italy and present it to an Italian museum.

The theft remained a mystery for over two years until Peruggia was apprehended in 1913 when he attempted to sell the stolen painting to an art dealer in Florence, Italy. The "Mona Lisa" was subsequently returned to the Louvre and remains one of the most iconic and valuable artworks in the world.

The theft of the "Mona Lisa" and its eventual recovery only added to the painting's mystique and fame, solidifying its status as a cultural and artistic masterpiece.