What is PM WANI Wi-Fi Scheme

The PM WANI Scheme (Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) stands out as a pivotal initiative launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, in December 2020.

Its core mission is to bring more public Wi-Fi hotspots to every corner of the country, with a special emphasis on rural and underserved areas. This initiative plays a crucial role in bolstering India’s digital infrastructure and aligns closely with the Digital India mission.

Key Objectives of PM WANI Scheme

Democratize Internet Access: The scheme strives to make affordable internet accessible to everyone, especially those in urban slums and rural households, by establishing a widespread network of public Wi-Fi hotspots.

Promote Digital Inclusion: By bridging the digital divide, PM WANI supports digital literacy and expands access to e-governance, education, and healthcare services.

Boost Employment: It encourages small and micro-entrepreneurs to participate as Wi-Fi service providers, thereby creating new avenues for livelihoods.

Leverage Local Infrastructure: Local shops, kirana stores, tea stalls, and other small establishments are empowered to become last-mile internet providers without the need for licenses or registration fees.

How the PM WANI Ecosystem Works

The PM WANI framework revolves around four main components:

• Public Data Office (PDO): Sets up and operates WANI-compliant Wi-Fi hotspots, delivering broadband directly to users without requiring a DoT license and ISP License.

• Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): Authorizes and manages multiple PDOs, handling authentication and accounting.

• App Provider: Develops mobile apps that display available hotspots and facilitate user access.

• Central Registry: Maintained by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), keeping records of all PDOs, PDOAs, and App Providers.

User Access Mechanism

Users can access PM WANI Wi-Fi by downloading a dedicated app, selecting a nearby hotspot, and making a digital payment to use the internet. No SIM card is required, making the service widely accessible.

Implementation and Progress

As of March 2025, India has installed 278,439 PM-WANI Wi-Fi hotspots. The scheme has seen over 1.8 million unique users and a total data consumption of 58.55 petabytes as of December 2024. The government actively promotes the initiative through workshops, seminars, and advertisements, especially in rural areas.

Affordability and Regulation

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has set tariff caps to ensure that public Wi-Fi under PM WANI remains affordable, with charges limited to no more than twice the rate of residential broadband for hotspot setup.

Broader Impact

PM WANI aims to bridge the urban-rural digital divide, foster entrepreneurship, and facilitate digital services in education, healthcare, governance, and commerce. By involving local businesses and encouraging widespread participation, the scheme aims to build a sustainable and inclusive digital ecosystem.

How can I become a PDO (Public Data Office)?

Becoming a PDO is simple and doesn’t require any special license. Just follow these easy steps:

Step1: Get a broadband connection: Arrange a fixed-line broadband connection from any Internet Service Provider (ISP) available in your area.

Step2: Connect with a PDO Aggregator (PDOA): Reach out to a PDOA to discuss the business model, pricing, and choose the right type of Wi-Fi Access Point for your setup. There are two options to connect with PDOA.

Option 1: Visit PDO Portal on https://pmwani.gov.in andinsert necessary detailsin the available enquiry form. The interested PDOAs may contact you.

Option 2: Visit official website to get the details of PDOAs like office address, e-mail address and telephone number etc.and you may contact them directly.

Step: Install and go live: Set up the Wi-Fi Access Point at your location and start offering internet services to users around you.

In summary:

The PM WANI Scheme represents a transformative stride towards universal internet access in India. With its focus on affordability, inclusivity, and grassroots entrepreneurship, it paves the way for a truly Digital India.

FAQs

Q.1 Who can become a PDO (Public Data Office)?

Anyone can become a PDO—no registration or license is required!
If you’re a village-level entrepreneur, own a grocery shop, tea stall, kirana store, vegetable shop, or restaurant, you can easily set up a Wi-Fi access point and start offering internet services in your area. It’s a great opportunity to join the digital revolution while running your everyday business.

Q.2 What are the benefits of becoming a PDO?

Becoming a PDO comes with several valuable advantages:

• Create Employment: Helps generate jobs in both rural and urban areas.
• Earn Extra Income: Small and medium business owners can increase their monthly earnings by offering Wi-Fi.
• Support the Economy: Expanding public Wi-Fi access helps boost the country’s GDP and supports the vision of a truly Digital India.

Q.3 How can users access broadband using PM-WANI Wi-Fi?

It’s simple and user-friendly:

1. Download the PM-WANI app on your smartphone.
2. Get authenticated through the app.
3. When you’re near a public Wi-Fi hotspot, the app will display all available networks.
4. Choose a network, make a payment (online or via a voucher), and start browsing.

You can use the internet until your chosen data pack or balance is exhausted—no SIM card required!