Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni gave India's first innings some impetus with a quick-fire half century in the second session at Edgbaston.
The tourists began the second session on 75-4, looking to recover after losing important wickets in the morning session.
However, India's situation got worse before it improved.
James Anderson's first wicket of the Test came when a full and straight delivery went straight through Suresh Raina's defences to make it 92-5.
Tim Bresnan then picked up his third wicket of the day when VVS Laxman pulled straight to Stuart Broad on the boundary.
India's slump continued when Mishra edged a Stuart Broad ball to wicket keeper Matt Prior.
Dhoni (61 not out) then forged a partnership with Praveen Kumar to reach 195, before Kumar was given out following an umpire review.
A fine edge on Kumar's bat from a Bresnan delivery was unheard by umpire Steve Davis but England reviewed the decision to send the India bowler back to the pavilion.
India ended the session on 205-8, with Dhoni and Ishant Sharma (4 not out) at the crease.
