PM-WANI Scheme
The Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) scheme was launched by the Government of India in December 2020, aiming to enhance internet connectivity across the country, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The initiative focuses on establishing a robust network of public Wi-Fi hotspots to democratize access to broadband services.
Objectives and Components of PM-WANI scheme
The primary objectives of PM-WANI include:
– Affordable Internet Access: To provide low-cost internet services to citizens, especially in remote areas where traditional broadband services are limited or expensive.
– Economic Empowerment: Enabling local shopkeepers and small businesses to set up Public Data Offices (PDOs) that offer Wi-Fi services, thereby increasing their income and enhancing digital literacy within communities.
The PM-WANI ecosystem comprises several key components:
– Public Data Office (PDO): Local entities that set up and manage Wi-Fi hotspots without needing a license from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). They are responsible for providing internet access to users.
– Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): Organizations that facilitate the operations of PDOs by providing necessary authorizations, accounting services, and user interfaces for managing data plans.
– User Applications: Mobile applications that help users locate nearby PM-WANI hotspots, enabling them to connect easily and manage their data usage.
Current Status and Challenges
As of mid-2024, approximately 207,642 PM-WANI hotspots have been deployed, significantly below the target of 5 million set by the National Digital Communications Policy 2018. The long-term goal is to establish 50 million public Wi-Fi hotspots by 2030.
Despite its potential, the scheme has faced challenges, particularly regarding the high costs imposed by telecom service providers on PDOs for internet connectivity. For instance, PDOs have reported annual charges of up to ₹8 lakh for leased lines, which can be economically unfeasible compared to personal broadband connections available at much lower rates. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed reducing these costs to make the initiative more viable for small-scale operators.
Benefits of PM-WANI
– Enhanced Digital Literacy: By providing affordable internet access, the scheme aims to improve digital education and literacy among citizens, particularly students in rural areas.
– Economic Opportunities: Local entrepreneurs can benefit financially by setting up PDOs and offering Wi-Fi services in their communities.
– Increased Connectivity: The initiative seeks to ensure that even remote villages can access the internet, thus bridging the digital divide in India.
Public Data Offices (PDOs) under PM-WANI
Public Data Offices (PDOs) are a crucial component of the Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) scheme, which aims to democratize internet access across India, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Here’s an overview of their role and functioning:
Role and Responsibilities of PDOs
– Establishment of Wi-Fi Hotspots: PDOs are responsible for setting up, maintaining, and operating Wi-Fi access points that comply with the PM-WANI framework. They provide last-mile connectivity to deliver broadband services to subscribers.
– No Licensing Requirement: One of the significant advantages for PDOs is that they do not require a license from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to operate. This reduces barriers to entry for local entrepreneurs and businesses.
– Partnership with PDOAs: PDOs must partner with Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs) to facilitate internet services. PDOAs help manage user interfaces, data plans, and revenue sharing between PDOs and themselves.
Operational Framework
– Infrastructure Requirements: To operate, PDOs need to arrange for internet bandwidth from Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), along with the necessary hardware such as access points and power sources.
– Revenue Generation: PDOs generate income by selling internet access coupons to users. The pricing can vary, with plans typically ranging from ₹2 to ₹20 per session, allowing flexibility for users based on their needs.
– User Engagement: Users can find available PDO hotspots through mobile applications developed by app providers. They can select a network, purchase a plan, and access the internet until their balance runs out.
Economic Impact
– Local Entrepreneurship: The PM-WANI scheme empowers local entrepreneurs by enabling them to set up PDOs in places like tea shops or grocery stores. This initiative not only provides additional income for these businesses but also enhances digital access for community members.
– Affordability and Accessibility: By offering low-cost internet access in remote areas, PDOs play a vital role in improving digital literacy and educational opportunities, thereby contributing to broader socio-economic development goals in line with the National Digital Communications Policy.
Challenges
Despite their potential, PDOs face challenges such as high costs associated with leased internet lines from ISPs. For instance, some PDOs have reported annual charges up to ₹8 lakh, which can make operations economically unviable compared to personal broadband connections available at much lower rates. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed measures to address these tariff issues to support the sustainability of PDOs.
Source: PIB
Q. The Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) scheme aims to enhance internet connectivity in India, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Which of the following statements regarding Public Data Offices (PDOs) under the PM-WANI scheme is/are correct?
1. PDOs are required to obtain a license from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to operate Wi-Fi hotspots.
2. PDOs can sell internet access coupons directly to users, generating revenue for local entrepreneurs.
3. PDOs must partner with Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs) to facilitate internet services and manage user interfaces.
4. The PM-WANI scheme aims to establish 50 million public Wi-Fi hotspots by the year 2030.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2, 3, and 4 only
C) 1, 3, and 4 only
D) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Explanation:
– Statement 1 is incorrect because PDOs do not require a license from the DoT to operate.
– Statements 2, 3, and 4 are correct as PDOs sell internet access coupons, partner with PDOAs for service facilitation, and the PM-WANI scheme indeed aims for the establishment of 50 million hotspots by 2030.
Correct Answer:
B) 2, 3, and 4 only
