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@article{197475,
        author = {Dr. Janet Paul and Dr. Bommana Indu},
        title = {More Than Grammar: Why Pronunciation Matters In English Education In India},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {11},
        pages = {6833-6839},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=197475},
        abstract = {This article argues that pronunciation should occupy a central place in English education in India rather than remain a marginal skill overshadowed by grammar, reading, and writing. Drawing on research in pronunciation pedagogy, intelligibility, Global Englishes, speech technology, and teacher education, it shows that effective pronunciation teaching supports not only clearer speech but also listening ability, classroom participation, and learner confidence. The article rejects the goal of native-speaker imitation and instead supports intelligibility and comprehensibility as more realistic and educationally sound aims for Indian learners. Furthermore, it underscores the legitimacy and diversity of Indian English, suggesting that pronunciation instruction should prioritize features that facilitate comprehension, rather than attempting to eliminate local linguistic characteristics. The examination reveals considerable challenges within Indian educational contexts, including an emphasis on examination performance, a lack of oral assessment, insufficient teacher preparation, and the marginalization of pronunciation instruction to infrequent correction or reading drills. Consequently, the article advocates for a comprehensive methodology that integrates segmental and suprasegmental instruction, perceptual training, connected speech exercises, communication strategies, consistent low-pressure speaking practice, and judicious technological integration. The research suggests that a more comprehensive and fair English language education in India requires systematic pronunciation instruction, meaningful assessments, and support through teacher training programs and policy changes.},
        keywords = {comprehensibility, English education in India, Global Englishes, Indian English, intelligibility, oral communication, pronunciation assessment, pronunciation teaching, speech technology, teacher preparation},
        month = {April},
        }