Cabinet Nod for Public Wi-Fi Networks

Cabinet approves setting up of Public Wi-Fi networks.

The Union Cabinet approves the proposal of DoT for setting up of Public Wi-Fi Networks by Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs).
Public Wi-Fi network service is provided along the length and breadth of the country through Public Data Offices (PDOs).
Even Kirana and tea shops could become PDOs as per the plan.
These will accelerate the proliferation of Broadband Internet.
Under the plan, providers of broadband internet services through these Public Wi-Fi networks need not pay any license fee.
The aim of the plan is to augment Public Wi-Fi Networks, increase Broadband Internet usage, enhance people’s income, generate employment, and empower people.

The Public Access Network Interface will be known as PM-WANI.
Four different players are involved in the provision of PM-Wani.
Public Data Office (PDO): A PDO establishes, operates, and maintains, and operates WANI Wi-Fi Access Points and delivers broadband services to subscribers.
Public Data Office Aggregator: A PDOA is an aggregator of PDOs. It performs the functions relating to Authorization and Accounting.
App Provider: Apps will be developed by the app provides to register users and help them discover WANI-compliant Wi-Fi hot spots in the vicinity and lets them access the internet through the app.
Central Registry: It will store the details of App Providers, the PDOAs, and PDOs. The central registry will be maintained by C-DoT.

Registrations are not required for PDOs, but PDOAs, and App Providers must get themselves registered at the online portal SARALSANCHAR of the DOT without paying any registration fee.
Within seven days of the application, the registration will be granted.
The simple registration process will be more business-friendly and in line with the ease of doing business efforts.
The major objective of spreading the Wi-Fi networks is to create jobs, enhances disposable incomes in the hands of small and medium entrepreneurs, and can boost the country’s GDP.
PM-WANI is a step towards making India a truly Digital India by providing access to the internet everywhere in the country.