India is a land of diverse cultures and languages. Despite Hindi being the most common language, spoken by around 40% of the population, regions such South and the East have their own local languages and Hindi is not commonly spoken. In these parts of the country, English is the common language used to communicate with Indians from other regions and it is the second most commonly spoken language in India. India is the world's second-largest English-speaking country with more than 12% Indians speaking the language. On this level, English can serve as a common ground for between Indians as well as the common link between Indians and the rest the world. Coming from Spain, I have witnessed first hand the difficulties that students and professional face due to a lack of English proficiency. Knowledge of the language positively influences relations within a country as well as international relations. India is on track to becoming one of the greatest global powers and English plays and will continue to play an important part in the growth of individuals within its society. 

On a global level, there has been an upward trend towards adopting English as the official language among companies and institutions and with this, it becomes imperative for individuals in India to embrace the language to order to compete in the job market. Knowing the language opens up opportunities for Indians within multinational companies or when it comes to pursuing a career abroad. Additionally, if children are not properly learning English at an early age, they will be missing out on opportunities not only in conducting business internationally but also within India. 

English is also referred to as the storehouse of scientific knowledge. For India to fulfill its role as a global superpower, its people must have access to up-to-date information across the different branches of science. Advances in innovation, therefore, depend directly on the population’s ability to understand the language. With the wide penetration of the internet and the increased ease to access scientific and academic materials online, knowledge of English becomes even more beneficial. The Internet is lowering economic barriers to education around the world, but individuals will not be able to tap into its full potential without an understanding of English. 

The Internet also increases the potential for connectivity between Indians, allowing for a medium of communication to share ideas and debate social, economic and political issues that are prevalent in the country.  Since every state has a language of its own, English find its way as a common language to discuss and find solutions to national problems and to find a common ground within the differences. The language further contributes towards introducing students to an international perspective further enhancing their understanding of world problems allowing them to apply this learning’s to the national landscape. In this way, English serves as an important means of national integration. 

The Indian education system is seeing a change in the way skills are being imparted. Today the focus has shifted from a competitive mindset to understanding the employability skills required to create capable next-generation entrepreneurs. The English language is acting as a tool to bridge the gap between the industry and academia as it is seen as an important element in reaching diverse work environments. Globalization further strengthens this link and is signaling towards finding better job opportunities and employment. 

The English language works in a variety of ways, thereby contributing to the holistic development of solutions related to education, self-esteem, employment and bringing communities closer.