Prelims: Current events of national and international importance
Why in News?
Recently, PM-WANI gets major citizen-friendly upgrade to make public wi-fi simpler and more accessible.
PM-WANI– The Prime Minister's Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) framework.
Launched – In 2021 by the Department of Telecommunication
Aim –To accelerate the proliferation of internet services by setting up public Wi-Fi hotspots in the country, especially in rural areas.
Features
License-Free Setup – Small vendors and local entrepreneurs can set up Public Data Offices (PDOs) without needing to pay any registration fees, licenses, or complex government approvals.
Ultra-Affordable Plans – The framework is designed for extreme cost-effectiveness.
Users can purchase sachet data plans (as little as ₹5 to ₹10 for 1GB) or highly affordable monthly subscriptions.
No SIM Card Required – No need for a traditional telecom SIM card to get online.
Users connect directly via Wi-Fi using any compliant mobile app.
Recent upgrades
Simplified Laptop Connection via QR Authentication – The DoT now permits QR-based authentication for secondary devices like laptops to ease PM-WANI access.
Users can connect by scanning a QR code on the login page using an authenticated smartphone app, reducing friction for a faster, secure experience.
Flexible Short-Duration Access Plans – To assist users at public locations like transit hubs and malls, the DoT has advised operators to offer sachet-style validity plans:
15, 30, and 60 minutes
These plans enhance affordability for commuters and students while boosting operator revenue and hotspot utilisation.
Standardised Hotspot Identification – SSID nomenclature is now standardised with PMWANI branding to help users identify authentic networks.
