Analyze the British expansion in the North-West Frontier region, focusing on the Durand Line agreement, Lord Curzon's strategies, and their enduring effects.

The British Conquest of Sindh and Punjab: Expansion Beyond the Indus

• The British conquest of Sindh in 1843 and the annexation of Punjab in 1849 extended their boundaries beyond the Indus River.
• This expansion brought the British into direct contact with Baluch and Pathan tribes, claimed by the Amir of Afghanistan.

British Occupation of Hunza and Nagar in the Gilgit Valley

• During 1891-92, the British occupied Hunza and Nagar in the strategic Gilgit Valley, alarming Abdur Rahman, the Amir of Afghanistan.
• A compromise led to the creation of the Durand Line, marking the boundary between Afghan and British territories.
• Despite the agreement, tribal uprisings persisted until 1898.

Curzon’s Policy of Withdrawal and Concentration in British India

• Lord Curzon, serving as Viceroy from 1899 to 1905, implemented a policy of withdrawal and concentration.
• British troops were withdrawn from advanced posts and replaced by tribal levies trained by British officers.
• Curzon encouraged tribal leaders to maintain peace and created the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP).
• The NWFP was placed directly under the Government of India, having previously been under the lieutenant-governor of Punjab.

The Formation of the NWFP and Its Historical Aftermath

• Curzon’s policies contributed to a relatively peaceful north-west frontier, with occasional tribal uprisings.
• In January 1932, the NWFP was constituted as a governor's province.
• After 1947, the NWFP became part of Pakistan.