PM WANI’s public Wi-Fi proliferation to help local entrepreneurs like chaiwalas, kiranas earn more: Govt

Ease of Doing Business for MSMEs: Light-touch (relaxed) regulation of Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) framework will encourage entrepreneurs to set up public Wi-Fi hotspots and generate additional revenue for themselves, said Deputy Director General (Technology), Department of Telecom (DoT) Ajay Kamal on Wednesday. Addressing a webinar on PM-WANI framework for Bharat Broadband Network Limited, Common Service Centres, and Village-level entrepreneurs in Mumbai, Kamal noted that the scheme has “immense potential for proliferation of affordable broadband access to realize the vision of Digital India,” a statement from Communications Ministry cited.

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. The ministry noted that the growth in public Wi-Fi networks through PM WANI scheme will enable local entrepreneurs “such as chaiwalas, kirana stores and eateries to earn additional revenue.”