PM-WANI SCHEME

Recently, the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)  issued a draft on the regulatory framework for the PM WANI Scheme. 

Key Highlights

• PM WANI stands for Prime Minister’s Wifi Access Network Interface, which was launched by the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) in 2020. 
• Aim:  (i) To increase the number of public WiFi hotspots to create robust digital communications infrastructure especially in the rural areas. 
• (ii) To create employment opportunities for small and micro entrepreneurs. 
• (iii) The scheme encourages local establishments to provide wifi for last mile internet delivery which does not require a licence or registration fees. 

 

PM WANI Ecosystems 

• Public Data Office (PDO): It establishes the wifi hotspots and provides internet access to users. 
• Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): It provides authorisation and accounting services to PDOs. 
• APP Provider: It displays the available hotspots in the phone’s proximity. 
• Central Registry: It maintains details of APP providers, PDOs and PDOAs.