The Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM WANI) scheme, part of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), presents a notable transformation in public Wi-Fi accessibility in India. This initiative carries the potential to significantly bolster India’s digital infrastructure, ushering broadband internet into even the most remote locations through small-scale retail data offices.
The PM WANI Framework: A Breakdown
Launched in December 2020 by the Department of Telecom (DoT), PM WANI seeks to increase public WiFi hotspots penetration, particularly in rural areas. The framework permits various entities, such as shopkeepers and tea stall owners, to establish public Wi-Fi hotspots thereby offering internet service to customers, aligning with the National Digital Communications Policy, 2018’s objective of formidable digital communications infrastructure.
To encourage businesses and streamline operations, the scheme does not necessitate a license, registration, or payment of any fees to the DoT – making it an attractive opportunity for small retailers.
Components of the PM WANI Ecosystem
Four key elements make up the PM WANI system. These include:
– The Public Data Office (PDO), responsible for setting up and operating Wi-Fi hotspots, delivering last-mile connectivity to users.
– The Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA) that offers aggregation services like authorization to PDOs.
– The App Provider, which develops applications for user registration and hotspot discovery.
– The Central Registry, maintained by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT), holding records of App Providers, PDOAs, and PDOs.
As of November 2022, there are 188 PDO aggregators, 109 app providers, and over 1.1 million public WiFi hotspots recorded in the PM-WANI central registry.
Benefits and Challenges Associated with PM WANI
PM WANI has the potential to bring internet access to remote and rural areas, stimulate innovation and market competition. However, it also poses several challenges such as ensuring Wi-Fi quality, managing user capacity, device compatibility, data security, and privacy. Moreover, mobile telecom companies might face revenue loss due to PM-WANI’s affordability and wider reach.
PM WANI: A Potential Game-Changer for India’s Digital Public Infrastructure
PM WANI can democratize internet access, bridging the digital divide by enabling anyone to become a Wi-Fi provider without any license or fee. It leverages existing physical and social infrastructure to create a distributed network of Wi-Fi hotspots, utilizing digital infrastructure to facilitate secure authentication and payment of Wi-Fi services.
Exploring the Concept of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
DPI refers to digital platforms like digital identification and data exchange solutions that aid countries in delivering essential services. DPI manages the flow of people, money, and information and operates under open, transparent, and participatory governance. India, through India Stack, has developed all three foundational DPIs, including Digital identity (Aadhar), Real-time fast payment (UPI), and Account Aggregator.
DPI’s Three Integral Layers
DPI comprises three integral layers:
– The market layer involving innovative competitors designing inclusive products.
– The governance layer comprising legal frameworks, public programs, and policies.
– The technology standards layer involving identity, payments, and data sharing standards for interoperability.
Benefits of DPI & Noteworthy DPI Initiatives in India
Notable benefits of using the DPI approach include cost reductions, modular end-user solutions, diverse application ecosystems, lower entry barriers, and inherent scalability. Successful DPI initiatives in India so far include Aadhaar, the Unified Payment Interface (UPI), and CoWin, with projects such as Unified Health Interface (UHI), Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), and Open Network for Digital Commerce currently in progress.