Connecting more people: on PM WANI

Context

• The Central government’s move to enable public wi-fi data service through small retail data offices can get many more people connected.

What is PM-WANI?

• Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM WANI) scheme will bring the broadband Internet to remote locations at minimum investment.
• It will give subscribers the option of making small, need-based payments.

What does the scheme aims for?

• It aims to bridge that divide using wireless technologies.
• Potentially, Internet access will connect a new wave of users not just to commercial and entertainment options, but also to education, telehealth and agriculture extension.
• It will bring greater accountability to government by boosting transparency and interactivity.

What are the citizen’s concerns?

• Protection of data integrity
• transparency on commercial use of data
• security against cyber-attacks