The first European to initiate the policy of taking part in the quarrels of Indian Princes with a view to acquire territories was Robert Clive.

Clive's Role in Indian Politics:
Robert Clive, an Englishman, played a significant role in shaping British colonial policies in India during the 18th century. He was a military officer of the British East India Company and is widely known for his victories in the Battle of Plassey (1757) and the Battle of Buxar (1764), which marked the beginning of British dominance in India.

Clive's Policy:
Clive was instrumental in initiating the policy of interfering in the conflicts between Indian princes in order to gain territories for the British East India Company. This policy aimed at strengthening the Company's hold on India and expanding its territorial control.

Reasons for Clive's Policy:
There were several reasons that led Clive to adopt this policy:

1. Economic Interests: The British East India Company had established profitable trade relations with various Indian princely states. Acquiring territories would ensure the protection and expansion of these economic interests.

2. Competition with European Rivals: The French, led by Governor-General Dupleix, were gaining influence in India by supporting regional princes against their rivals. Clive viewed this as a threat to British interests and decided to counter it by adopting a similar policy.

3. Weakness of Indian Princes: Many Indian princes were engaged in conflicts with each other, creating opportunities for European powers to exploit these divisions. Clive recognized this weakness and aimed to exploit it for the benefit of the British East India Company.

Consequences of Clive's Policy:
Clive's policy of interfering in Indian politics had far-reaching consequences:

1. British Expansion: By intervening in the disputes between Indian princes, Clive gained the trust and support of certain rulers, leading to the acquisition of territories by the British East India Company. This laid the foundation for British territorial control in India.

2. Weakening of Indian Princes: Clive's policy exacerbated the divisions among Indian princes and weakened their power. This made it easier for the British to establish control over them.

3. Consolidation of British Power: Clive's policy was a stepping stone towards the consolidation of British power in India. It set a precedent for future British administrators, such as Warren Hastings, to pursue similar policies and further expand British territories.

In conclusion, Robert Clive was the first European to initiate the policy of interfering in the quarrels of Indian princes with the aim of acquiring territories. His actions laid the groundwork for British colonial rule in India and significantly influenced the course of Indian history.