Pradhan Mantri Free Wi-Fi Scheme (PM-WANI): How to Get Low-Cost Internet in Public Places – Purpose, Speed and Application Process
In today’s digital world, internet access has become as essential as electricity or water. Whether it is a student attending online classes, a shopkeeper accepting digital payments, or a citizen downloading a government form, the need for internet connectivity is constant. However, repeatedly recharging mobile data packs can be expensive, especially for middle-class and low-income families.
To address this issue, the Government of India introduced the Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface Scheme (PM-WANI). This scheme aims to expand affordable internet access across the country through public Wi-Fi hotspots.
What is the PM-WANI Scheme?
PM-WANI is a central government initiative designed to promote public Wi-Fi networks at the local level. Contrary to popular belief, the scheme does not offer unlimited free internet. Instead, it enables low-cost, high-speed internet access through small shops, tea stalls, kirana stores, hotels, and rural business centres.
Under this scheme, local businesses can become Wi-Fi providers, known as Public Data Offices (PDOs), and offer internet services to nearby users at very affordable rates.
The scheme is implemented by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and is part of the government’s broader Digital India mission.
Main Objectives of the Scheme
The PM-WANI scheme has several important goals:
-
To increase internet penetration in rural and semi-urban areas
-
To provide affordable internet access to common citizens
-
To encourage small businesses to generate additional income
-
To reduce dependence on costly mobile data packs
-
To support digital payments, online education, and e-governance
By decentralising internet access, the scheme aims to bridge the digital divide in India.
Who Can Apply Under PM-WANI?
The scheme is open to multiple stakeholders, depending on their role.
1. Public Data Offices (PDOs)
These are local shop owners or individuals who provide Wi-Fi services to users.
Who can become a PDO?
-
Small shop owners
-
Kirana stores
-
Tea stalls
-
Hotels and restaurants
-
Rural entrepreneurs
No special licence or registration fee is required, making it easy for even small traders to participate.
How to Apply as a Public Data Office (PDO)?
The application process is simple and user-friendly.
Step-by-step process:
-
Visit the official PM-WANI Central Registry website
-
Fill in the enquiry form with:
-
Name
-
Mobile number
-
Email ID
-
Business address
-
-
A Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA) will contact you
-
The aggregator will guide you about:
-
Required hardware
-
Internet connection
-
Setup process
-
Alternatively, registration can also be done through private partner platforms such as Vani Wi-Fi and other approved service providers.
Registration for Aggregators and App Providers
Entities that wish to function as:
-
Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs), or
-
PM-WANI App Providers
must first register on the Saral Sanchar Portal and then enlist themselves on the PM-WANI Central Registry.
Key benefit:
-
No registration fee
-
No licence fee
This encourages startups and technology companies to participate without financial burden.
Documents Required for Business Registration
If the applicant is a formal business entity, the following documents are generally required:
-
Company PAN Card
-
Certificate of Incorporation or Establishment
-
Memorandum and Articles of Association
-
Proof of Business Address
-
Identity proof of authorised representative
These documents ensure transparency and trust in the system.
How Can Common Citizens Use PM-WANI Wi-Fi?
Using PM-WANI internet services is very easy for the general public.
Steps for users:
-
Download any PM-WANI compatible mobile app from the Google Play Store
-
Open the app and search for nearby Wi-Fi hotspots
-
Select a suitable plan (starting from ₹5–₹6 per day)
-
Make a digital payment and start browsing
These plans are ideal for short-term needs like browsing, online payments, form filling, or downloading documents.
Internet Speed and Cost
The speed and pricing depend on the PDO and the plan selected. However:
-
Internet speed is suitable for basic browsing and digital services
-
Cost is significantly lower than regular mobile data packs
-
No long-term commitment is required
In many cases, internet access costs less than the price of a cup of tea.
What Does This Scheme Mean for the Middle Class?
For middle-class families trying to manage rising expenses, PM-WANI offers real relief. Affordable internet access ensures that children can study, workers can stay connected, and small businesses can accept digital payments without worrying about high data costs.
At the same time, small shop owners benefit by earning additional income simply by sharing internet access.
APPLY NOW
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) Scheme is a quiet but powerful step towards digital inclusion. By making low-cost internet available in public places and empowering small businesses, the scheme supports education, employment, and everyday digital needs.
Citizens and shop owners alike can benefit from this initiative, making it an important pillar of India’s digital future.
Disclaimer: This article is for public awareness. Readers are advised to verify details from official government portals before applying or investing.