Written with empathy and lucidity, Mukherjee’s book combines hard fact with sensitive insight in his approach to the region’s landscape, people and history. The author analyses problems intrinsic to this enigmatic area, offering viable solutions where possible. As former Chief of Staff of the Eastern Command, Mukherjee forms astute observations about the north-east’s conditions. Drawing on his 41 years of experience with north-eastern soldiers, ex-servicemen and their families, he is able to explore the perspectives of both the north-eastern people and those who oppose them.