: Mumbai, May 13, 2022

The PM-WANI scheme, launched by the Department of Telecommunications, aims to setup Public Wi-Fi Networks by Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs) to provide public Wi-Fi services through Public Data Offices (PDOs) spread across length and breadth of the country to accelerate proliferation of Broadband Internet services. A webinar on this subject, organized today by Department of Telecommunications - Mumbai and Maharashtra Licensed Service Areas, was attended by officers of BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd.) and its TIPs (Telecom Infrastructure Providers) from 34 districts of Maharashtra.

The webinar was inaugurated by Shri Vikram Malviya, Deputy Director General (Technology), DoT, Maharashtra LSA. In his inaugural address, he mentioned that the PM-WANI scheme has immense potential for proliferation of affordable broadband access to realize the vision of Digital India. By virtue of light-touch regulation of PM-WANI framework, it will encourage BSNL, TIPs to set up public wifi hotspots and generate additional revenue for themselves. He added that BSNL is well-positioned to cater to the needs of both Urban and Rural areas.

Shri Sanjay Sethi, Director (Technology), DOT, Mumbai LSA explained the background and various elements of PM WANI framework i.e. Central Registry, PDO, PDOA and App Providers. All the queries raised by the TIPs regarding the PM WANI framework were clarified by DoT and BSNL team.

About PM WANI

As per the National Digital Communication Plan, the Central government has set a target of setting up of 10 million Wi-Fi hotspots by 2022 and the PM-WANI scheme will facilitate this.

There shall be no license required by PDOs from DoT for providing Broadband Internet through these public Wi-Fi networks.

The proliferation of public Wi-Fi networks in the country through PM WANI will accelerate the proliferation of public broadband services through Wi-Fi networks and it will enable local entrepreneurs such as chaiwalas, kirana stores and eateries to earn additional revenue.

Interested prospective PDOs can inquire at the following link: www.pmwani.gov.in

DOT will assist all the stakeholders in implementation and proliferation of PM WANI.

Source: DoT Mumbai LSA

SC/PM

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