Govt Introduces Major PM-WANI Reforms to Expand Public Wi-Fi Access in India

The Department of Telecommunications has directed all stakeholders within the PM-WANI ecosystem to implement the revised guidelines within eight weeks of the circular issuance.

In a significant push toward strengthening India's digital public infrastructure and improving affordable internet accessibility for citizens, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced a new set of user-friendly reforms under the PM-WANI (Prime Minister's Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) framework.

The latest reforms aim to simplify public Wi-Fi usage, improve user experience, increase hotspot adoption, and strengthen the country's vision of universal digital connectivity under the Digital India initiative. The changes include QR-based authentication for laptops and secondary devices, flexible short-duration internet plans, and standardized hotspot naming systems for easier identification of authentic PM-WANI networks.

The reforms have been formally introduced through DoT Circular Nos. 1/PM-WANI/2026 and 2/PM-WANI/2026 issued on May 22, 2026.

PM-WANI Ecosystem to Become More User Friendly

The Department of Telecommunications has directed all stakeholders within the PM-WANI ecosystem to implement the revised guidelines within eight weeks of the circular issuance. As a result, the upgraded features are expected to become operational across India by July 2026.

Officials stated that the reforms are part of the Government of India's continuing efforts to translate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of accessible, affordable, and inclusive digital connectivity into reality for every citizen.

The PM-WANI initiative was launched under the Digital India programme to create a nationwide public Wi-Fi ecosystem through decentralized participation by Public Data Offices (PDOs), Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs), and application providers.

QR-Based Login for Laptops and Secondary Devices

One of the most important reforms introduced by the DoT is the provision for QR-based authentication for secondary devices such as laptops and tablets.

Under the new system, users accessing public Wi-Fi on laptops can authenticate themselves simply by scanning a QR code displayed on the login page using an already authenticated smartphone application. The feature eliminates the need for repetitive manual login procedures and significantly reduces access friction.

Officials believe this move will improve ease of access for students, professionals, remote workers, travelers, and business users who frequently rely on laptops for internet-based work at public locations.

The QR-based system is also expected to improve security while making public Wi-Fi access faster and more seamless.

Introduction of Flexible Short-Duration Wi-Fi Plans

In another major reform focused on affordability and convenience, the DoT has advised PM-WANI hotspot operators to introduce flexible short-duration internet access plans.

The newly recommended "sachet-style" plans include:

• 15-minute access plans

• 30-minute access plans

• 60-minute access plans

The initiative is particularly aimed at supporting users who require internet access for shorter periods at public places such as:

• Railway stations

• Airports

• Bus terminals

• Shopping malls

• Educational institutions

• Cafés and commercial centres

Officials stated that these plans would benefit students, commuters, tourists, gig workers, and small business users who often need temporary internet access without purchasing larger data packages.

The government also expects the move to improve hotspot utilization rates while creating additional revenue opportunities for local hotspot operators and digital service providers.

Standardised PM-WANI Hotspot Names

To improve user trust and simplify network identification, the Department of Telecommunications has introduced standardized hotspot naming conventions using PMWANI branding.

Under the new guidelines, PM-WANI hotspot names (SSIDs) will follow a standardized format that allows users to easily identify authentic public Wi-Fi networks. The reform is intended to:

• Improve reliability

• Reduce confusion caused by duplicate or misleading network names

• Strengthen user confidence

• Promote wider public adoption of PM-WANI services

The standardized naming framework is expected to create a more uniform and recognizable digital ecosystem across the country.

Government Focus on Digital Inclusion

The reforms are being implemented under the leadership of Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, who has emphasized the importance of digital accessibility and citizen-centric connectivity solutions.

Officials said the PM-WANI ecosystem is currently undergoing a comprehensive transformation focused on:

• Accessibility

• Interoperability

• Ease of use

• Digital inclusion

• Public adoption of Wi-Fi infrastructure

Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani has also conducted extensive review meetings with department officials and stakeholders to accelerate implementation and improve overall user experience within the PM-WANI framework.

Public Wi-Fi Emerging as Essential Public Utility

Speaking about the reforms, Dr. Pemmasani described PM-WANI as a platform designed to provide universal public Wi-Fi access across India.

He highlighted that the QR-based login system now enables users to connect laptops simply by scanning a code through their smartphones, making public internet access significantly more convenient.

The Minister also emphasized the growing importance of public Wi-Fi in today's digital economy, noting that it is becoming an essential public utility supporting:

• Students

• Travellers

• Commuters

• Professionals

• Small businesses

• Digital service users

Experts believe public Wi-Fi infrastructure can play a major role in reducing the digital divide, especially in semi-urban and rural areas where affordable high-speed connectivity remains a challenge.

PM-WANI's Role in India's Digital Future

Launched under the Digital India initiative, PM-WANI aims to create a scalable and decentralized public Wi-Fi ecosystem capable of delivering affordable internet access across the country.

The framework allows small businesses, shops, establishments, and local entrepreneurs to become Public Data Offices (PDOs) and offer internet connectivity services without requiring expensive licensing structures.

Industry analysts note that the PM-WANI model has the potential to:

• Expand internet penetration

• Promote digital entrepreneurship

• Support e-governance access

• Improve digital education

• Enable online service delivery

• Strengthen digital inclusion in underserved regions

With the latest reforms focused on simplicity, affordability, and user experience, the government hopes to accelerate nationwide adoption of public Wi-Fi services and strengthen India's digital public infrastructure ecosystem.