Summary: capital of his empire. The Mughals were still in control of Delhi, though weak, while the Sikhs had built up their own empire in the Punjab. The Pathans and other tribes along the Frontier continued with their traditional way of life, fiercely independent and resistant to outside rule. The region remained a complex tapestry of ethnicities, tribes, and historical influences, making it one of the most sensitive and explosive areas on the earth's surface. The British, now firmly established in India, had to contend with this volatile frontier, employing a mix of diplomacy, force, and strategic alliances to maintain some semblance of control. Through a detailed narrative spanning historical events and key figures, the text paints a vivid picture of the intricate dynamics and challenges faced on the North-West Frontier of India.