The framework for this scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet on 9 December 2020 under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The objective is to strengthen digital connectivity in both rural and urban areas and support India’s growing digital economy.
Under this initiative, individuals and businesses can set up Wi-Fi hotspots and become Public Data Offices (PDOs) to provide internet connectivity to users using PM-WANI compliant access points.
PM Wani Yojana 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
| Scheme Name | PM Wani Yojana |
| Full Form | Prime Minister's Wi-Fi Access Network Interface |
| Launched By | Government of India |
| Approval Date | 9 December 2020 |
| Implementing Authority | Department of Telecommunications |
| Objective | Expand public Wi-Fi networks across India |
| Beneficiaries | Small entrepreneurs, shop owners, and internet users |
| License Requirement | No license required for PDO |
| Official Website | https://pmwani.gov.in/wani |
Objective of PM WANI Scheme
The main goal of the PM-WANI initiative is to improve broadband connectivity across India by creating a large network of public Wi-Fi hotspots. The scheme also supports the goals of the National Digital Communications Policy 2018, which focuses on strengthening digital communication infrastructure.Key Objectives
- Expanding affordable internet access in rural and urban areas
- Encouraging small businesses to provide Wi-Fi services
- Supporting digital education and online services
- Creating new employment and income opportunities
- Strengthening the Digital India mission
What is a Public Data Office (PDO)?
A Public Data Office (PDO) is a local establishment that installs and operates Wi-Fi hotspots to provide broadband internet services to users.The concept is similar to the earlier PCO booths that provided telephone services across India. PDOs act as internet access points where users can connect to Wi-Fi and pay a small amount to use internet services.
PDOs obtain internet bandwidth from licensed telecom or internet service providers and distribute it to nearby users through their hotspot.
Eligible Applicants
PM WANI Yojana Eligibility
The PM-WANI scheme is designed to encourage participation from small businesses and entrepreneurs. Almost anyone with a suitable location can become a PDO.Eligible Applicants
- Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs)
- Grocery shop owners
- Tea stall owners
- Kirana shop owners
- Vegetable vendors
- Restaurant or café owners
- Small shopkeepers
- Local business establishments
Key Features of PM WANI Yojana
The PM-WANI scheme includes several features that make it attractive for small entrepreneurs.- License-Free Model: Individuals and businesses can operate Wi-Fi hotspots without requiring a telecom license, making it easy to start.
- Affordable Internet Services: Public Wi-Fi hotspots provide low-cost broadband access to people who may not be able to afford private broadband connections.
- Support for Local Businesses: Small shops and establishments can earn additional income by offering internet access to customers.
- Simple Setup Process: Entrepreneurs can easily set up Wi-Fi hotspots by partnering with a PDO Aggregator.
- Improved Digital Connectivity: The scheme helps expand broadband coverage and improves internet availability across the country.
Benefits of PM WANI Yojana
The PM-WANI initiative offers several advantages for both entrepreneurs and internet users.- Additional Income Opportunity: Shop owners can earn extra income by selling internet access through Wi-Fi hotspots.
- Increased Customer Footfall: Customers visiting a shop for Wi-Fi may also purchase other products or services.
- Business Growth: Providing internet services can increase the visibility and reputation of small businesses.
- Employment Generation: The scheme encourages self-employment and supports micro-entrepreneurs.
- Better Internet Access: Public Wi-Fi hotspots improve connectivity in areas where broadband services are limited.
PM WANI Yojana Registration / Apply Online
Although becoming a PDO does not require formal government registration, interested individuals can submit an enquiry through the official portal to connect with registered PDO Aggregators.Steps to Apply
- Visit the official PM-WANI portal.
- On the homepage, select the "PDO Portal" option.
- Open the PDO enquiry form available on the website.
- Enter details such as name, mobile number, email ID, and address.
- Provide the location where the Wi-Fi hotspot will be installed.
- Mention the expected daily footfall at the location.
- Complete captcha verification and submit the form.
Documents / Information Required
Applicants may need to provide basic information while submitting the enquiry form.Common Details Required
- Name of the applicant
- Mobile number
- Email ID
- Address and PIN code
- Location of Wi-Fi deployment
- Expected number of daily users
- Additional remarks or information
Wi-Fi Hotspot Setup Process
Setting up a Wi-Fi hotspot under the PM-WANI scheme is simple and involves a few steps.Step 1: Contact a PDO Aggregator: After submitting the enquiry form, applicants can connect with a suitable PDOA.
Step 2: Install Wi-Fi Equipment: The PDOA will provide or recommend compatible Wi-Fi equipment required for the hotspot.
Step 3: Arrange Internet Connectivity: The PDO must obtain internet bandwidth from a licensed Internet Service Provider or Telecom Service Provider.
Step 4: Start Providing Wi-Fi Service: Once the setup is complete, users can connect to the hotspot and purchase internet data plans.
PM WANI Equipment Cost
To start a Wi-Fi hotspot, some basic equipment is required.| Equipment | Estimated Cost |
| Wi-Fi Access Point | ₹3,000 - ₹8,000 |
| Router or Gateway | ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 |
| Installation & Setup | ₹1,000 - ₹3,000 |
PM WANI PDO Income Potential
One of the main advantages of becoming a PDO is the opportunity to earn extra income by providing internet services.PDOs generate revenue by selling internet data plans to users who connect to their Wi-Fi hotspot.
Example Data Plan Pricing
Income depends on the location and number of users.
| Data Plan | Price |
| 1 GB Data | ₹5 - ₹10 |
| 2 GB Data | ₹10 - ₹20 |
| Daily Internet Access | ₹20 - ₹30 |
Income depends on the location and number of users.
| Daily Users | Estimated Monthly Income |
| 50 Users | ₹5,000 - ₹8,000 |
| 100 Users | ₹10,000 - ₹15,000 |
| 200+ Users | ₹20,000+ |
Busy locations such as markets, bus stands, colleges, and tourist areas may generate higher earnings.
PM WANI Ecosystem
The PM-WANI framework consists of several important components.- Public Data Office (PDO): PDOs establish and operate Wi-Fi hotspots and provide internet access to users.
- Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): PDOAs manage multiple PDOs and provide services such as authentication, billing, and network management.
- App Provider: App providers develop mobile applications that help users locate nearby hotspots and access internet services.
- Central Registry: The central registry maintains details of PDOs, PDOAs, and app providers. It is managed by the Centre for Development of Telematics.
How Users Can Access PM WANI Wi-Fi
Users can easily connect to PM-WANI Wi-Fi hotspots.Steps to Connect
- Download a compatible Wi-Fi application.
- Register and authenticate the user account.
- Select a nearby PM-WANI hotspot.
- Choose a suitable internet plan.
- Make payment through online methods or vouchers.
- Use the internet until the purchased data balance is exhausted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is PM WANI Yojana?PM WANI Yojana is a government initiative that enables small businesses to provide public Wi-Fi internet services through hotspots.
Q2. Do I need a license to become a PDO?
No telecom license is required to become a PDO under the PM-WANI framework.
No telecom license is required to become a PDO under the PM-WANI framework.
Q3. Who can become a PDO?
Any individual, shop owner, or small business establishment can become a PDO and provide Wi-Fi internet services.
Q4. How do PDOs earn money?
PDOs earn income by selling internet data plans to users who connect to their Wi-Fi hotspot.
Q5. Who maintains the PM-WANI registry?
The central registry is maintained by C-DOT under the Department of Telecommunications.
With simple requirements, affordable setup costs, and no licensing requirement, the PM-WANI initiative can play a significant role in building a digitally connected and inclusive society.
Any individual, shop owner, or small business establishment can become a PDO and provide Wi-Fi internet services.
Q4. How do PDOs earn money?
PDOs earn income by selling internet data plans to users who connect to their Wi-Fi hotspot.
Q5. Who maintains the PM-WANI registry?
The central registry is maintained by C-DOT under the Department of Telecommunications.
Conclusion
The PM WANI Yojana is an important step toward expanding digital connectivity in India. By enabling small businesses to provide public Wi-Fi services, the scheme helps improve broadband access while creating new income opportunities for entrepreneurs.With simple requirements, affordable setup costs, and no licensing requirement, the PM-WANI initiative can play a significant role in building a digitally connected and inclusive society.
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