The British colonial administration introduced English education in India to create a class of educated Indians who could assist in the administration of the colony. By doing so, the British aimed to consolidate their power by having a workforce that was familiar with British customs, language, and governance, thereby making the administration of India more efficient and cost-effective for the British.
English education became a means of upward mobility for many Indians, particularly those in urban areas and the emerging middle class. It opened up opportunities for employment in the colonial administration, legal profession, and other areas where English was the medium of communication. Therefore, many Indians aspired to learn English to improve their socio-economic status.