PM-WANI: Revolutionizing Digital Connectivity Across Rural India

Why in the news?

The PM-WANI scheme, launched in 2020, aims to expand affordable public Wi-Fi in rural areas. By supporting local businesses and capping internet tariffs, it ensures digital inclusion and bridges the urban-rural digital divide.

PM-WANI: Revolutionizing Digital Connectivity Across Rural India

Objective and Launch:

  • PM-WANI (Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) was launched in December 2020 by the Department of Telecommunications.
  • The scheme aims to expand public Wi-Fi hotspots, focusing on rural areas, to strengthen digital connectivity and reduce the urban-rural divide.

Operational Framework and Accessibility

  • Local shops and small businesses are encouraged to establish Public Data Offices (PDOs) without any license or registration fees, providing affordable internet services.
  • Users can access PM-WANI hotspots via an app to locate nearby networks, connect, and pay for the service.
  • The ecosystem includes:
    • PDOs: For setting up Wi-Fi hotspots.
    • PDO Aggregators (PDOAs): Manage user data and authorization.
    • App Providers: Facilitate seamless connectivity.
  • A central registry managed by the Centre for Development of Telematics ensures smooth operations.

Benefits and Affordability

  • Fosters employment opportunities for small entrepreneurs while providing low-cost internet to underserved urban poor and rural households.
  • TRAI caps tariffs for Wi-Fi providers at twice the retail broadband rate, ensuring affordability for millions.
  • PM-WANI is a step toward achieving digital inclusion and building a robust digital infrastructure for India.

National Digital Communications Policy (NDCP), 2018: Key Facts

  • About: NDCP, 2018 aims to transform India into a digitally empowered economy by enhancing digital infrastructure and services.
  • Goals: Deploy 10 million public Wi-Fi hotspots by 2022, provide broadband at 50 Mbps for all citizens, and ensure digital sovereignty.
  • Key Objectives:
  • Universal broadband access.
  • Creation of 4 million jobs.
  • Increase Digital Communications sector’s GDP contribution to 8%.
  • Attract USD 100 billion in investments.
  • Key Features:
  • Expand Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem.
  • Focus on data protection, security, and accountability.
  • Wi-Fi Hotspots Target: India achieved only 0.5 million hotspots, falling short of the 10 million target.
  • Bharat 6G Vision (2030): Target 50 million public Wi-Fi hotspots, requiring significant growth and cost reduction.

This initiative empowers rural and underserved communities, enhancing access to information and fostering economic growth.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times

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