The North-East Frontier Policy of Sir John Lawrence (1864-1868)
By Dharm Pal
Summary
This comprehensive article analyses Sir John Lawrence’s policy towards the tribes on India’s north‑east frontier between 1864 and 1868. Lawrence adopted a policy of conciliation, offering subsidies to tribes such as the Angami Nagas and erecting a chain of frontier outposts. Punitive expeditions were authorised only when raids became intolerable. The article discusses debates among British officers: some saw subsidies as ‘black mail’ and urged annexation, while others argued that military campaigns were costly and ineffective. Difficulties in Abor territory, including dense forests and fierce resistance, are described. The author notes that although conciliation sometimes failed when tribes resumed raiding, outright conquest was impractical. After Lawrence’s retirement, policy shifted towards firmer control. The article concludes that a combination of subsidies, occasional expeditions and political outposts was the only viable strategy.
AI-assisted summary, not yet checked. Consult the original PDF before citing.
Conclusion
The article demonstrates that Sir John Lawrence pursued a policy of conciliation—subsidising tribes and avoiding annexation—to maintain peace on the north‑east frontier. Though criticised, this approach was cheaper and less destructive than military campaigns. The author argues that a balanced strategy combining subsidies, occasional expeditions and frontier outposts was the only feasible policy given the terrain and limited resources.