Context

The Union Cabinet approved the setting up of public Wi-Fi networks across the length and breadth of the country.

About

What is Public Wi-Fi access network?

The public Wi-Fi access network interface or PM-WANI aims to improve wireless connectivity. It will be an eco-system operated by different players:

• Public Data Office (PDO): These units will establish, operate, and maintain only the WANI compliant Wi-Fi access points and will deliver broadband services to subscribers.
• Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): These units will be an aggregator of the PDOs and will perform the functions relating to authorization and accounting.
• App Provider: An application will be developed to register users and discover the WANI-compliant Wi-Fi hotspots in the nearby area and display them within the application for accessing internet service.
• Central Registry: A central registry will maintain the details of the app providers, PDOAs, as well as PDOs.
  • This central registry will be maintained by C-DoT or Centre of Development for Telematics, a government-owned telecommunications technology development centre.

Benefits of the Scheme

• Ease of doing business: The scheme is expected to be more business-friendly and will be in line with efforts for ease of doing business.
• High-speed broadband internet service: The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated the delivery of high-speed broadband internet service. This can be done by the deployment of a public Wi-Fi network service. 
• Economic development: The proliferation of a public Wi-Fi network will not only create employment but also enhance the disposable incomes in the hands of small and medium entrepreneurs, which is likely to boost the gross domestic product (GDP).