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PM-WANI Scheme expands public Wi-Fi access, ensuring affordable internet for all. Under the PM-WANI Scheme, digital connectivity boosts economic growth and supports Digital India initiatives.
PWOnlyIAS
March 27, 2025
PM-WANI Scheme (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) is an ambitious initiative by the Government of India to boost internet accessibility through public Wi-Fi hotspots. It aims to accelerate digital penetration, particularly in underserved areas, by leveraging an unlicensed Wi-Fi ecosystem. This initiative is important for realizing the Digital India vision, empowering citizens with affordable and high-speed internet access.
The PM-WANI Scheme is a decentralized public Wi-Fi network framework that allows service providers to establish and operate Wi-Fi hotspots without requiring a formal license. It enables users to access broadband services seamlessly across multiple locations. The scheme is expected to bridge the digital divide by providing internet access to millions, especially in rural and remote areas.
| PM-WANI Scheme Overview | |
| Feature | Details |
| Scheme Name | PM-WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) |
| Launched By | Government of India (Department of Telecommunications) |
| Launch Date | December 9, 2020 |
| Objective | To provide affordable and high-speed public Wi-Fi across India, especially in rural and remote areas |
| Aim | Enhance internet accessibility, promote digital inclusion, and support small businesses |
| Key Components |
|
| Licensing Requirement | No license required, only registration |
| Internet Accessibility | Public Wi-Fi is available at affordable rates |
| Security & Compliance | User authentication and data storage within India |
| Current Status | Over 2,78,783 PM-WANI Wi-Fi hotspots installed across India (as of March 2025) |
| Expected Impact | Increased broadband penetration, economic empowerment, digital literacy, and better e-governance services |
The PM-WANI Scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet on December 9, 2020 and then It was launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, to facilitate the proliferation of public Wi-Fi hotspots across India without licensing hurdles, making internet services more accessible and affordable.
The primary goal of the PM-WANI Scheme is to increase broadband penetration by creating an extensive public Wi-Fi network. What is the aim of the PM-WANI Scheme? The core objectives include:
The primary aim of the PM-WANI Scheme is to ensure last-mile internet connectivity through a public Wi-Fi network. This initiative is expected to revolutionize the way Indians access the internet by providing free or low-cost internet services, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
The Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) is a structured ecosystem consisting of various entities that work together to provide Wi-Fi services to the public. The framework consists of the following key players:
This framework ensures seamless interconnectivity between service providers and end-users, allowing users to connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots effortlessly.
The PM-WANI Scheme offers several advantages for users, entrepreneurs, and the digital ecosystem as a whole. This Scheme offers numerous benefits that contribute to digital empowerment and economic growth:
The PM-WANI Scheme has seen remarkable growth since its launch. As of March 20, 2025, the number of PM-WANI Wi-Fi hotspots installed in India has reached 2,78,783. The initiative is driven by both government support and private sector participation.
Additionally, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has facilitated the availability of PM-WANI compliant Wi-Fi hardware, ensuring smooth deployment of hotspots across the country.
The working mechanism of the PM-WANI Scheme is simple and user-friendly:
This simplified process ensures that people without technical knowledge can easily access the internet.
Despite its benefits, the PM-WANI Scheme faces some challenges:
To overcome these challenges, the government is focusing on awareness campaigns, improving cybersecurity measures, and expanding broadband infrastructure.
The PM-WANI Scheme is expected to grow exponentially, with plans to install millions of Wi-Fi hotspots across the country. With continued government support, India is on track to become a digitally connected nation, ensuring that every citizen has access to affordable internet services.
The PM-WANI Scheme is a revolutionary step towards achieving universal digital connectivity in India. By promoting public Wi-Fi networks, the scheme is bridging the digital divide, creating economic opportunities, and enhancing digital literacy. With continuous efforts, the initiative will play a crucial role in empowering millions of Indians and transforming India into a truly Digital Nation.
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