PM WANI

Why in news?

• Webinar on PM-WANI Framework organized by Department of Telecom on 24^th November 2021.

About the scheme:

• PM WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) Scheme aims to bring large scale deployment of Wi-Fi hotspots through the country to drive up connectivity options and improve digital access.
• The scheme was launched by Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to set up public Wi-Fi Networks by Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs) and provide public Wi-Fi services through PDOs spread across India
• Public Data Offices (PDOs) will be set up on the lines of Public Call Offices (PCOs)
• According to the scheme, no license is required by Public Data Offices (PDOs) from DoT for providing the Internet through these public Wi-Fi networks. These PDOAs will only have to register, for which no fees will be charged.
• Light-touch regulation of PM-WANI framework will encourage entrepreneurs to set up public wifi hotspots and generate additional revenue

Add ons:

• The government had targeted 10 million Wi-Fi hotspots by 2022 as per the National Digital Communication Plan and will be facilitated by the PM-WANI scheme.

PRELIMS QUESTION

Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding ‘PM-WANI scheme’?

1. It was launched by the Department of Telecommunications

2. PM-WANI framework envisages provision of Broadband through Public Wi-Fi Hotspot providers

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer