The South Eastern part of South Asia, the Eastern Himalayan countries, can be justified as a region in itself. A proper study of an area such as this region requires a knowledge of its geography, ecology and culture which have shaped the history of this region and its people. This area, also known as Eastern Province of British India and given the name of Bengal, stretches from the Himalayas in the north to the Bay of Bengal in the south, in the west by the Ganges east of Bihar and Orissa, in the east by the Himalayan mountain ranges and Burma. It lies roughly between 27° 9’ and 20° 5’ north latitude and 86° 35’ and 92° 30’ east longitude.
The Eastern Himalayan region should be studied as a whole - its geographical continuation, cultural heritage and its relationship to the outside world. The territory of the eastern Indian subcontinent is difficult to define because it stretches far beyond the political boundaries, but the region shares a common history, geography and culture. Very little work has been carried on this region as a whole, it deserves to be better known. The present study is intended to encourage others to look into this area, for possible lessons to be learnt from its past and explore future prospects.
This region is regarded to be poor, overly populated, politically unstable and neglected. Yet the people are proud of their ancient heritage and their racial and ethnic identity. They want recognition of their potential and opportunities for overcoming their hardships. The human and existing natural resources together create prospects for regional peace and prosperity or conflicts. Conflicts have the potential of spilling over the national or regional boundaries and involving larger regional powers such as India and China. Or it may play a vital role in creating regional co-operation and prosperity. A future agenda for peace will require a greater understanding of the people, culture and land.

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