English Studies in Indian Universities

Book excerpt: Right from its formal introduction in India in 1835, through Thomas B. Macaulay’s Minute, English has been intrinsically linked with the employment prospects of Indians. During their regime, the British promoted English education to fulfil the requirement of English-knowing Indians for administrative purposes. Owing to globalization, the last few years have witnessed the opening up of thousands of lucrative job opportunities for graduates proficient in English. English has gained importance in India as the language of opportunities. In colonial India, English education was a passport to government jobs, while in the twenty-first century, proficiency in English is essential for private sector jobs. This book examines the development of curricula in English in Indian universities vis-a-vis the needs of second language learners studying in Special English programmes of Bachelor of Arts (BA). It also reflects on how globalization has strengthened the connection between English and employment.