New Delhi: In a boost to public wi-fi networks, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday okayed the proposal of DoT for setting up of Public Wi-Fi Networks by Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs) to provide public Wi-Fi service through Public Data Offices (PDOs) spread across length and breadth of the country to accelerate proliferation of Broadband Internet services through Public Wi-Fi network in the country without license fee.
Briefing reporters, Information and Broadcasting minister Prakash Javadekar said the proposal will promote the growth of public Wi-Fi Networks in the country and, in turn, will help in proliferation of Broadband Internet, enhancement of income and employment and empowerment of people.
This move is expected to be more business friendly and in line with efforts for ease of doing business. The Covid-19 pandemic has necessitated delivery of stable and high speed Broadband Internet (data) services to an increasingly large number of subscribers in the country, including areas which do not have 4G mobile coverage. This can be achieved by deployment of Public Wi-Fi.
Proliferation of Broadband Services through public Wi-Fi is a step towards Digital India and consequential benefit thereon.
No License Fee for providing broadband internet services using public Wi-Fi Hotspots will massively encourage its proliferation and penetration across the length and breadth of the country. Availability and use of Broadband will enhance incomes, employment, quality of life, and ease of doing business among others.
