
What Are the Major Challenges of Learning English in India? Top 9 Reasons
Last modified: Aug 27, 2026 5 min read
Have you ever wondered why some people struggle to learn English?
Countries like India have diverse cultures in which different languages are used in different communities. That’s why some people deal with several major challenges of learning English in India.
Considering the right method always helps in avoiding several problems while learning. Know the top challenges to become fluent.
What are the major challenges of learning English in India? 9 key reasons
Learn different languages to improve their skills. English is another milestone which helps them in both academic and personal life.
However, they deal with some major challenges while learning English, such as:
1. Mother Tongue Influence (MTI)
There are different languages used in India; that’s why people become comfortable with their mother tongue. From communities to the general public, people often use Hindi.
This is the reason why English has become difficult to understand and speak. People make several mistakes like:
- Grammar errors
- Slow reading
2. Examination-oriented approach
The education system in India is different from other countries. Here, gaining good marks is more prioritised than building skills. This can impact the confidence of students while speaking English in front of others.
This major difference leads to many challenges, such as:
- Memorising the grammar rules instead of understanding.
- Avoid implementing them in real-life situations.
3. Resource and infrastructure deficits
To speak English fluently, students need to balance creativity, knowledge, and critical thinking skills. And to become fluent, students need the right resources and infrastructure.
Deficiency in resources and infrastructure is a major challenge to learning the English language. Let’s decode it in simple words. A school in rural areas often fails to fulfil the needs of students while learning English in India.
For example, there is a lack of digital tools, libraries, and professionals.
4. Socio-economic divide
The socio-economic divide is a major challenge which needs balance to promote learning of the English language.
The difference in learning the English language can be seen in urban and rural school students. It is seen that most of the urban students are more capable of learning the English language easily as compared to rural areas.
This is because they get different resources, infrastructure, environment, and opportunities to improve their skills.
5. Fear of judgment
It is one of the major challenges a lot of students have, especially in the beginning of learning the English language in India.
People often fear talking with people, especially with those who speak fluently. This makes people uncomfortable in front of a crowd. One can avoid this fear by talking at home and with friends.
6. Lack of speaking practice
One of the reasons is that students often lack practice on a daily basis. This is a common mistake which can negatively impact fluency.
It is recommended that regular practice in school, at home, and in the community motivates individuals to communicate freely through group discussion, roleplays, and debates.
7. Lack of qualified English teachers
There are several schools which lack the ability to hire qualified English teachers.
It is mainly seen in rural areas, which can limit access to knowledge while learning. Remember that an experienced teacher in the classroom can introduce the right ways to make the English language easier for students.
8. Poor vocabulary development
Learning English can be difficult for students if they have poor vocabulary development. This is because fluency and confidence while speaking English come when individuals have a good hold on vocabulary.
For vocabulary improvement, follow some simple activities on a daily basis, including reading, word games, vocabulary journals, and contextual learning.
Remember, low vocabulary development disturbs the use of English in regular conversations.
9. Limited reading habit
Countries like India have diverse cultures in which different languages are learned from a young age. From Hindi to regional languages, children hear from their home, and this becomes a habit in future.
Here, the English language became secondary for some individuals. However, through reading habits, one can improve their English language skills.
Know what the benefits of learning a second language without challenges are.
People often look for ideal ways to enhance their English reading habits. Some common suggestions are:
- Reading newspapers
- Digital articles
- Desired novels
Conclusion
Language like English is widely used in the world, and that’s why becoming proficient is important.
Sometimes learning English brings several challenges to students. But to master the English language, individuals need to practice daily through several activities.
Hopefully, the information helps you understand the challenges so you can avoid mistakes in future.
Frequently asked questions
5 questions
What is English level A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2?
The CEFR divides English proficiency into six levels. These levels are: A1 & A2: (Basic User) B1 & B2: (Independent User) C1 & C2: (Proficient User)
What is the difference between the English levels B1 and B2?
The difference between the English levels B1 and B2 is shifting from surviving the English language in B1 to becoming fluent in B2.
Can I reach B1 in 3 months?
Yes, but it depends on the speed and consistency of the individual.
Is B2 basically fluent?
B2 level students can interact fluently without challenges. One can easily: Share viewpoints Understand others' opinions. Handle unexpected conversations.
Is Duolingo good for B2?
Yes. Duolingo is good for students. It improves people's English to become B2-level CEFR proficient.

About the author
Ankita Singha
Content Specialist
Ankita Singha is an Education Content Specialist at 21K School, India’s first accredited fully online K-12 School. She focuses on the in-depth research and creation of the well-drafted guides on early childhood education, school admission processes, and CBSE/ICSE curriculum guidance. With more than 2 years of experience at 21K School, a fully accredited institute- Cambridge International (IA702) and Pearson Edexcel (94883), Ankita works closely with the school’s curriculum heads and academic coordinators. Ankita’s every article reflects on the official board guidelines, practical realities, and current policies of online education in 78+ countries. Ankita’s content has helped thousands of parents in understanding the topics like RTE eligibility, NIOS pathways, and age-appropriate admission criteria.
Every 21K School guide is written by our education team and reviewed by a subject facilitator before publishing.
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