Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI)
Source: PIB
GS II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation
Overview
- News in Brief
- About Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI)
Why in the News?
Union Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Shri Giriraj Singh to inaugurate project ‘Smart Gram Panchayat: Revolution towards Digitization of Gram Panchayat’ to extend PM-WANI (Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) Service in Gram Panchayats of Bihar
News in Brief
- In a significant step towards digital empowerment, the Union Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj will inaugurate the pilot project titled ‘Smart Gram Panchayat: Revolution towards Digitization of Gram Panchayat’ on 13th February 2024 at Paprour Gram Panchayat under Barauni Block of Begusarai District in Bihar.
- It is to extend the PM-WANI Service in Gram Panchayats.
- This path-breaking initiative promises to mark a paradigm shift in rural connectivity and catalyze a digital revolution in the heartlands of Bihar.
- Begusarai is poised to lead this digital transformation in Bihar as the first District where all Gram Panchayats will be equipped with Wi-Fi services under the PM–WANI Scheme.
About Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI)
- The Union Cabinet approved the proposal of the Department of Telecom (DoT) to increase Broadband through Public Wi-Fi networks under the framework of the PM-WANI on 9th December 2020.
- This framework takes forward the National Digital Communications Policy, 2018 (NDCP) goal.
- Creating a robust digital communications infrastructure.
- The PM-WANI framework envisages the provision of Broadband through Public Wi-Fi Hotspot providers.
- It will consist of elements such as Public Data Office (PDO), Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA), App Provider and Central Registry.
- PM-WANI operates on an open architecture model, allowing multiple service providers to participate and compete, leading to better service quality and affordability.
- By promoting competition among service providers, PM-WANI aims to drive down the cost of internet access, making it more accessible to all segments of society.
What is the importance of PM-WANI?
- In rural areas where traditional internet infrastructure is limited, PM-WANI has the potential to bridge the digital divide by providing access to online education, healthcare services, and e-commerce platforms.
- PM-WANI is part of the Digital India initiative, which strives to empower citizens through digital infrastructure and services.
- The initiative encourages the establishment of Public Data Offices (PDOs) that offer Wi-Fi services to the public.
- PDOs can be set up by any entity, including small businesses, local shops, and entrepreneurs, thereby fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth.
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