The PM-WANI scheme has been developed with the aim of promoting the spread of public Wi-Fi networks in India, which is making a significant contribution to the vision of Digital India. It is designed to make internet access accessible especially in rural and deprived areas.
PM WANI Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) is a government initiative aimed at setting up public Wi-Fi hotspots across India, especially in rural and remote areas. Under this scheme, small and local businesses have been given the opportunity to provide Wi-Fi to make internet services affordable and accessible.
How to use PM-WANI network
- Users download an app, which shows the Wi-Fi networks available near them. They can choose a hotspot, make payment, and use the internet. They can avail the service until the balance runs out.
PM-WANI Ecosystem: The PM-WANI system is composed of four major components
- Public Data Office (PDO): Responsible for setting up Wi-Fi hotspots and providing internet.
- Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): Authorization and accounting services for PDOs.
- App Providers: Apps that help users find nearby Wi-Fi hotspots.
- Central Registry: Managed by C-DoT, it maintains a record of PDOs, PDOAs, and app providers.
Benefits of PM-WANI
- Internet access: Helps in making the internet cheaper and more accessible, which can accelerate the digital development of the country.
- Increasing access in rural areas: The digital divide can be reduced by increasing internet access in rural areas.
- Support to businesses: The scheme gives small and micro entrepreneurs an opportunity to provide Wi-Fi services, which can create new employment opportunities.
- Affordable Internet: The scheme provides affordable internet services to the underprivileged sections.
Facts
- Launch Date: PM WANI was launched by the Department of Telecommunications in December 2020.
- Target Audience: The scheme focuses on providing better access to the internet to the rural and urban poor, as well as disadvantaged communities.
- No license or registration fee: Allows local businesses to provide Wi-Fi services without license or registration fees.
Goals and Objectives
- Increasing Internet Access: Provide affordable and fast internet service, especially in rural and underserved areas.
- Support Entrepreneurship: Generate new business opportunities by providing Wi-Fi services to small and micro businesses.
- Bridging the Digital Divide: Reduce the digital gap between urban and rural areas.
- Generating Employment: Provide new employment opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs.The scheme aims to promote digital inclusion and growth in India by improving internet access overall.