Union Cabinet, presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has launched the PM-WANI (Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) scheme on 11th December 2020. This transformative initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), is poised to revolutionize internet accessibility across India by facilitating the establishment of Public Wi-Fi Networks, powered by Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs). Notably, the scheme is set to operate without imposing any licensing fees, thus ushering in a new era of broadband internet proliferation.
Changes in the Scheme as in 2024
Under the updated framework introduced in 2024, the PM-WANI scheme represents a paradigm shift in broadband internet access strategies. By empowering PDOAs to oversee the setup of Public Wi-Fi Networks, the scheme decentralizes the delivery of broadband services, allowing Public Data Offices (PDOs) to serve as crucial access points. This revamped approach streamlines the Wi-Fi access network interface within the PM-WANI ecosystem, comprising PDOs, PDOAs, App Providers, and a Central Registry maintained by C-DoT.
About the Scheme
At its core, the PM-WANI scheme aims to democratize internet access by leveraging a multi-stakeholder approach. Under this framework, PDOs are tasked with establishing and operating Wi-Fi access points compliant with the WANI (Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) standards, thereby extending broadband services to subscribers. Meanwhile, PDOAs serve as aggregators, overseeing authorization and accounting functions, while App Providers develop user-friendly applications for registration and Wi-Fi hotspot discovery. The Central Registry acts as the custodian of essential information pertaining to App Providers, PDOAs, and PDOs, ensuring seamless connectivity and operational efficiency.
Benefits of the Scheme
1. Enhanced Internet Accessibility : By democratizing internet access, particularly in rural and underserved areas, the PM-WANI scheme fosters digital inclusion and bridges the gaping digital divide prevalent across the nation.
2. Economic Empowerment : Through the establishment of Wi-Fi hotspots by local entrepreneurs, the scheme unlocks new revenue streams, thereby fueling economic growth and empowering communities at the grassroots level.
3. Streamlined Regulatory Framework : Operating under a light-touch regulatory framework, the PM-WANI scheme promotes ease of doing business and encourages active participation from the private sector, driving innovation and efficiency.
4. Socio-Economic Development : Access to affordable broadband services catalyzes socio-economic development, enabling access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for rural communities, thereby fostering holistic growth and progress.
Data Insights
– As of June 2020, India boasted a staggering 749.07 million internet subscribers, with rural subscribers accounting for a significant portion, totaling 293.09 million individuals.
– The PM-WANI scheme aligns seamlessly with the objectives outlined in the National Digital Communications Policy, 2018, and resonates with the core principles delineated in TRAI’s consultation paper on broadband proliferation through public Wi-Fi networks.
– Wi-Fi access in Gram Panchayats under the PM-WANI scheme signifies a monumental leap towards digital empowerment in rural India, facilitating inclusive growth and development.
The implementation of the PM-WANI scheme heralds a new dawn in the realm of digital connectivity, propelling India towards the realization of the ambitious vision of Digital India.
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