Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) Scheme
Latest Update
- The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recently prescribed a cap on tariffs charged to Public Data Offices (PDOs) under PM-WANI.
- Objective: To keep public Wi-Fi affordable and ensure wider adoption of the scheme.
Background
- Launched: December 2020 by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
- Aim:
- Expand public Wi-Fi hotspots across the country.
- Strengthen digital communications infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
- Provide low-cost internet access to urban poor and rural households.
- Generate employment opportunities for small and micro-entrepreneurs by enabling them to run Wi-Fi services.
Key Features
- License-free Model: Any local shop, café, or establishment can set up Wi-Fi services as a PDO without license, registration, or DoT fees.
- Decentralized Public Access: Encourages last-mile delivery of broadband in a low-cost and scalable manner.
- Promotes Digital Inclusion: Complements Digital India and BharatNet initiatives by extending connectivity.
PM-WANI Ecosystem Components
1. Public Data Office (PDO)
- Establishes, maintains, and operates WANI-compliant Wi-Fi access points.
- Delivers broadband services directly to users.
- Local shops and small businesses can act as PDOs to earn extra income.
2. Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA)
- Aggregates multiple PDOs.
- Manages authorization and accounting functions.
3. App Provider
Develops apps that:
- Register users.
- Help discover nearby WANI-compliant hotspots.
- Enable payment and access to Wi-Fi services.
4. Central Registry
- Maintains details of App Providers, PDOAs, and PDOs.
- Currently managed by Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT).
How Users Access PM-WANI Wi-Fi
- Step 1: Download a PM-WANI App.
- Step 2: Authenticate through the App.
- Step 3: At a hotspot, the App displays available WANI-compliant networks.
- Step 4: User selects a network, makes payment (online or voucher-based), and accesses internet until the balance is exhausted.
Challenges & Concerns
- Sustainability of revenue for PDOs in low-income areas.
- Quality of service and bandwidth management.
- Cybersecurity risks due to open Wi-Fi models.
- Awareness among rural population to adopt Wi-Fi services.
