PM-WANI: Public Wi-Fi Networks to be Launched

The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi has approved the proposal to set up the public Wi-Fi networks across the country.

Key Facts

  • The Wi-Fi networks will be used to strengthen the Wi-Fi services for the public.
  • These Public Wi-Fi Access Network Interface, that is being set up, will be known as PM-WANI.
  • The approval has been given by the Public Data Office Aggregator in order to provide Wi-Fi services to the public by the Public Data Offices.
  • Setting up of the Wi-Fi Networks will accelerate the proliferation of broadband internet services through a Public Wi-Fi network across the country.  
  • The Wi-Fi Networks would not require registration, license, or fee to get the broadband internet

About PM-WANI

  • Under the PM-WANI initiative, the public do not require to register themselves for Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs), PDOs and app providers. They just require to get themselves registered online with DoT through a registration portal.
  • The interface do not require registration fee and registration will be provided within 7 days of application.
  • These public Wi-Fi Hotspots will further boost the proliferation all across the country.
  • These network interface are in line with the digital India initiative and would help in bosting its benefits.
  • The government expects that, this plan would be more business-friendly and in line with ease of doing business efforts.
  • The Public Wi-Fi services will create network besides enhancing the income of small and medium entrepreneurs who helps in boosting the GDP of the country.
  • The initiative would not require any License fee to provide the broadband internet services.

Purpose of the Wi-Fi networks

These Public Wi-Fi Access Network Interface would help to promote and facilitate the growth of public wi-fi networks across the country. The interface would unleash a massive Wi-Fi revolution. It network interface seeks to enhance the employment, income and to empower the people. Further, under the National Digital Communication Policy, 2018 , there was a target of providing the internet to 5 million people by 2020 and 10 million people by 2022. But, India is running behind these targets. Thus, these network interface would help reaching to the target.