The Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) scheme aims to provide widespread internet access through public Wi-Fi hotspots across India. Currently, the scheme is nearing the milestone of 2 lakh hotspots, with 1,99,896 hotspots operational.
Features of PM-WANI Scheme
- Objective: The scheme’s primary goal is to provide internet access to every citizen, especially in areas with limited mobile data connectivity.
- Locations: Public places such as railway stations are key locations for these hotspots. The scheme also supports the establishment of hotspots by rural entrepreneurs in remote areas.
Role of Public Data Offices (PDOs)
- Establishment: Local entrepreneurs, including shop owners and small business operators, can become PDOs. They can install PM-WANI compliant Wi-Fi routers to provide internet services.
- Operation: PDOs procure internet bandwidth from telecom or internet service providers and resell it as broadband over Wi-Fi. This can help increase customer footfall and generate additional revenue.
- Requirements: No license, registration, or fees to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) are needed for becoming a PDO, facilitating ease of business.
User Access and Application
- Wi-DOT Application: Available on Google Play Store, this app is used to connect to PM-WANI Wi-Fi networks. Users authenticate via OTP and select from available networks to access broadband.
- Payment: Users can pay online or through vouchers to use the Wi-Fi service.
Rural and Remote Area Benefits
- Rural Focus: Special emphasis is placed on providing Wi-Fi in rural areas under BharatNet, enhancing connectivity in regions lacking mobile data services.
- Entrepreneurship: The scheme encourages local entrepreneurs to set up PDOs, promoting digital inclusion and economic opportunities in rural areas.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary objective of the PM-WANI scheme?
- A. To provide free laptops to students
- B. To enhance internet access across the country
- C. To improve mobile network coverage
- D. To offer free mobile data services
- Answer: B. To enhance internet access across the country
- How many PM-WANI Wi-Fi hotspots are currently available in India?
- A. 1,00,000
- B. 1,50,000
- C. 1,99,896
- D. 2,50,000
- Answer: C. 1,99,896
- Who can set up a Public Data Office (PDO) under the PM-WANI scheme?
- A. Only government officials
- B. Any village-level entrepreneur or shop owner
- C. Only large corporations
- D. Only internet service providers
- Answer: B. Any village-level entrepreneur or shop owner
- Which app is used to access PM-WANI Wi-Fi networks on an Android phone?
- A. PM-WANI Connect
- B. Wi-DOT
- C. BharatNet Wi-Fi
- D. FreeNet India
- Answer: B. Wi-DOT
- What do users need to do to access broadband through PM-WANI’s Public Wi-Fi?
- A. Register at a local government office
- B. Download the PDO application and authenticate using OTP
- C. Sign a contract with a telecom provider
- D. Pay a monthly subscription fee
- Answer: B. Download the PDO application and authenticate using OTP
- What is a significant advantage of setting up a PDO for small business owners?
- A. No need for licenses or registration fees
- B. Free internet bandwidth from the government
- C. Exclusive rights to sell internet services in their area
- D. Permanent tax exemptions
- Answer: A. No need for licenses or registration fees
- Which organization is responsible for providing fast and free public Wi-Fi services in over 6,100 railway stations?
- A. BharatNet
- B. RailTel
- C. DoT
- D. Google India
- Answer: B. RailTel
- How can users pay for accessing PM-WANI Wi-Fi services?
- A. Through a monthly subscription
- B. Online or through vouchers
- C. By registering at a government office
- D. By purchasing a special SIM card
- Answer: B. Online or through vouchers