A Complete Overview of PM WANI License in India

India is becoming more internet-dependent. The lockdown open people’s eyes and made them realize that to grow, they need the internet connection. It soon created a “work from anywhere” environment. Consequently, the need of mobile data grew. However, that rising demand, coupled with the recent AGR dues controversy, caused to mobile data costs to grow sigh high. 

Thankfully, the government had another trick in its sleeve. It is known as the PM WANI Scheme. 

To turn India into an internet-state, the government of India introduced this scheme. Its motive is simple; turn every small shop, grocery and departmental store into a place that provides wireless internet connectivity to the subscribes. 

This article gives you an overview about this scheme.

When was this scheme introduced?

This scheme was introduced in late 2020. After the rise of COVID 19, most companies were working offsite, relying on internet connection to keep their business afloat. Inspired by these events and finally recognizing what non-stop internet connectivity could mean for the Indian economy, the government of India came up with the PM WANI initiative. 

What are the elements of this scheme?

To provide internet access, the scheme suggests setting up multiple WANI sectors across urban and rural areas. To manage them, the following entities will come into play:

1. Public Data Office: The Public Data office of the foundation of this scheme. They are the department stores, the shops and other entities that will host the wireless router to provide the internet access to the people. 
2. Public Data Office Aggregator: Collecting information of all the Public Data Offices in a region will be a Public Data Office Aggregator. It will provide the app to the internet users. 
3. The application: The government has designed a WANI app to search for a connection to public data office within the vicinity. Users can connect with the app, select the PDO, provide their connection, pay the fees and get internet access. 
4. App provider: It is the app designer. He designs the app on the government’s behalf and provides it to the internet seekers.
5. Central Register: It is the central hub that stores information about all the Public Data Offices, Public Data office Aggregators, App Providers.
6. WANI: Wireless Access Network Interface. It allows users to access the internet at WANI compliant hotspots. 

What are the documents do you need to avail benefits of this scheme?

If you want to set up your own Public Data Office, you can do so by applying for it (for free) via the PM Wani online portal. Here is the list of documents you need to apply for the license:

1. The certificate of incorporation of your company
2. Details of your equity
3. Board resolution to authorize the person signing the application form
4. Additional documents that the DOT might ask for depending upon the nature of your business. 

You can  get a complete explanation of these documents here. 

Conclusion

The scheme is trying to change the face of India’s telecom sector. Whether it will achieve success at it, it remains to be seen. However, for now, if you are willing to push forward and earn an additional income stream for your store, go for the PM WANI initiative and establish your store as a WAI-compliant hotspot.

But remember, even if the application process is free of charge, the chances that it will get accepted in one go is slim. Therefore, it is better to reach out to experts that can help you fill out the application form so that it can get accepted without any issues. 

Author: Dushyant Sharma

Hey there, I'm Dushyant Sharma. With the extensive knowledge I've gained in past 8 years, I have been creating content on various subjects such as banking, insurance, telecom, and all the important registration and licensing processes for various companies. I'm here to help everyone with my expertise in these areas through my articles.