DIGITAL WORLD : WIFI THRU PM WANI SCHEME

The PM-WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) scheme is an initiative by the Government of India to provide affordable, high-speed internet through a large network of public Wi-Fi hotspots across the country. It aims to bridge the digital divide, boost digital access, and create employment opportunities for small entrepreneurs. 

Key Features

• Objective: To enable the widespread availability of public Wi-Fi hotspots, similar to public call offices (PCOs) of the past, without requiring a license or a registration fee for setting up the hotspot.
• Target Audience: Low-income citizens, rural households, small businesses, and anyone seeking low-cost internet access.
• Cost: The service is intended to be low-cost, with plans available for as little as ₹25 per day or ₹99 per month in some areas. 

How the PM-WANI Ecosystem Works

The scheme operates through a distributed architecture with four key components: 

• Public Data Office (PDO): These are local shopkeepers or small entrepreneurs who set up, manage, and operate the Wi-Fi access points.
• Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): An entity responsible for aggregating PDOs and providing authorization and accounting services.
• App Provider: Develops a mobile application that allows users to easily discover, authenticate, and connect to nearby PM-WANI compliant Wi-Fi hotspots.
• Central Registry: Maintained by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), this entity records the details of all App Providers, PDOAs, and PDOs. 

How to Access PM-WANI Wi-Fi

To use the service as a consumer:

1. Download a PM-WANI App: You need to download a PM-WANI compliant mobile application from an App Provider. These apps help you locate nearby hotspots.
2. Register and Authenticate: The app will handle user registration and authentication, often using KYC (Know Your Customer) and an OTP (One-Time Password) based verification process.
3. Purchase a Plan: Once registered, you can view and purchase affordable data plans offered by the PDO Aggregator.
4. Connect: The app will automatically connect you to a nearby PM-WANI hotspot. 

Becoming a Service Provider (PDO/PDOA/App Provider)

Entities and individuals interested in becoming part of the PM-WANI ecosystem can register online: 

• PDO: Individuals or entities can register to operate a Wi-Fi router (access point) in their location, such as a local shop.
• PDOA/App Provider: Companies or individuals can register on the Saral Sanchar portal to become an aggregator or an app provider, handling backend services or user-facing applications. 

For more information, you can visit the official PM-WANI Central Registry website or the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) website.