The Impact of English as a Global Language on Indian Regional Languages: Language Policy, Cultural Identity, and Linguistic Diversity in Contemporary India

Abstract

This paper examines the complex relationship between English as a global lingua franca and the preservation of India's rich linguistic heritage, analysing how the dominance of English in education, administration, and economic sectors affects the vitality and intergenerational transmission of regional languages. Through an analysis of language policies, sociolinguistic data, and theoretical frameworks from linguistic imperialism studies, this research demonstrates that while English provides opportunities for global integration and socioeconomic mobility, its hegemonic position creates significant challenges for linguistic diversity. The study reveals that UNESCO identifies 196 endangered languages in India, with many regional languages experiencing reduced domains of use and declining intergenerational transmission. The paper argues that India's linguistic landscape represents a critical case study in understanding how global languages impact local linguistic ecologies, requiring nuanced policy approaches that balance global connectivity with cultural preservation. The research contributes to broader discussions about linguistic diversity in an increasingly interconnected world, highlighting the need for policies that recognize both the instrumental value of English and the intrinsic worth of regional languages in maintaining cultural identity and cognitive diversity.