PM-WANI:
The Digital India programme has three main vision areas: digital connectivity, software and services on demand, and digital empowerment of citizens.
- To achieve this, the creation of inter-operable public Wi-Fi hotspots called PM-WANI (Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) was proposed to provide affordable internet access to the common people, especially in rural and underserved areas.
- PM-WANI allows the last-mile distribution of broadband through Public Data Offices (PDOs) offering sachet-sized packages of internet for as low as Rs 5 to 10.
- This framework offers a business opportunity for aggregators (PDOAs) without additional licensing fees, fostering the growth of local nano-entrepreneurs who establish Wi-Fi hotspots and offer internet access to other users.
- It offers an affordable and reliable solution for underserved areas, benefiting ISPs and Telcos by expanding their customer base.
