PM-WANI Scheme: Public Wi-Fi and Digital Public Infrastructure
Why in the news
PM-WANI was discussed as a possible game-changer for India’s digital public infrastructure because it can widen cheap internet access.
Key facts
- Started by the Department of Telecom in December 2020.
- Lets any entity set up a public Wi-Fi hotspot through small retail data offices.
- Main focus is robust digital connectivity in rural areas.
Ecosystem and numbers
| Element | Note |
|---|---|
| Public Data Office (PDO) | Small outlet that runs the hotspot |
| PDO Aggregator (PDOA) | 188 registered by November 2022 |
| App Provider | 109 registered by November 2022 |
| Central Registry | Recorded 11,50,394 public Wi-Fi hotspots |
Benefits and challenges
- Benefits: wider access in remote places, affordable internet, more innovation and competition.
- Challenges: Wi-Fi quality, data leakage, hacking and malware, pressure on mobile telecom firms, and high running cost where demand is low.
About Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
- DPI means digital platforms such as identity, payments and data exchange that help move people, money and information.
- Three foundational DPIs: digital ID, real-time fast payment, and consent-based data sharing.
- India Stack delivered all three: Aadhaar, UPI and Account Aggregator.
- Other DPI examples: CoWin, Unified Health Interface, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, Open Network for Digital Commerce.
- DPI works on open, transparent, participatory governance and lowers entry barriers.
Exam angle
- Nodal body: Department of Telecom; launched in December 2020.
- Four elements: PDO, PDOA, app provider, central registry.