Dr Ranjan's book on geopolitical history launched
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 12 2026: Former Union Minister of State (External Affairs & Education) Dr RK Ranjan's latest book "Geopolitical Relation of the Princely State Manipur with Neighbouring Regions" was formally launched on January 11, 2026 at the New Delhi World Book Fair held at Bharat Mandapam.

The launch was accompanied by a panel discussion in the presence of Chairman of the National Book Trust (NBT) Prof Milind Sudhakar Marathe and NBT Director Yuvraj Malik.

The panel discussion was moderated by Dachhbanta Samom, Director (Interpretation) of Lok Sabha.

Dr Ranjan's book on geopolitical history launched

Dr Ibomcha Sharma Aribam, Chief of Media and Communication, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, participated as a panelist and critically reviewed the book, highlighting its academic significance and contemporary relevance.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Ranjan said the World Book Fair symbolises the free exchange of knowledge, dialogue among cultures, and the power of books to build bridges of understanding.

He noted that these values resonate deeply with Manipur's historical experience as a small but strategically important kingdom that thrived through diplomacy, cultural exchange and engagement with neighbouring powers.

Dr Ranjan emphasised that Manipur was never merely a landlocked princely State but a sophisticated political entity that maintained complex relations with Burma (Myanmar), Ahom (Assam), Takhel (Tripura), tribal communities, and later the British Raj.

Its geographical position at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia, he said, made Manipur both vulnerable and invaluable, shaping centuries of diplomatic manoeuvring, conflict and cultural interaction.

The author explained that the book explores key dimensions of Manipur's geopolitical past, including the nuanced Statecraft of Manipuri rulers, the devastating seven-year Burmese invasion and their long-term impact, and the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891, which altered the kingdom's historical trajectory.

Based on extensive archival research in Imphal, Kolkata, New Delhi and London, as well as field visits and oral histories, the work seeks to bring Manipur's overlooked history into mainstream historical discourse.

Dr Ranjan observed that the questions Manipur faced in the past of preserving identity while engaging powerful neighbours and balancing geography with sovereignty remain relevant today.

He expressed hope that the book would place Manipur's story in a broader global conversation and inspire further research.

He thanked the National Book Trust of India, its editorial team, fellow panellists, archivists, and local communities for their support.

Concluding, Dr Ranjan dedicated the book to the people of Manipur, calling it their story of resilience, diplomacy, and historical significance.