About the Scheme
PM-WANI (Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) creates a decentralized public Wi-Fi ecosystem through small shop-based Public Data Offices (PDOs). Launched December 2020. Any small shopkeeper can set up a Wi-Fi hotspot and sell data without a licence. 2.5 lakh+ PDOs registered by 2024. Enables last-mile Wi-Fi connectivity democratization.
Target Beneficiaries: Urban and semi-urban citizens; last-mile internet users; 2.5 lakh+ PDO shop owners as micro-entrepreneurs
Implementing Agency: Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications
Key Features
- Any small shopkeeper can become a Public Data Office (PDO) without a licence
- PDO: last-mile Wi-Fi hotspot; PDOA: aggregator; App Provider: manages user authentication
- No spectrum fee, registration fee, or licence required — fully liberalized
- 2.5 lakh+ PDOs registered; expanding to tier-2/3 cities and rural areas
- Separates retail Wi-Fi provision from telecom licensing regime
- User authentication via app; seamless roaming across PDO networks
- Budget: NIL (self-sustaining market model) — only regulatory reform
Eligibility Criteria
- Any individual or entity can become a Public Data Office (PDO).
- Companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013, can become Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs) or App Providers.
- Citizens wishing to access affordable internet through PM-WANI hotspots.