Govt introduces user-friendly reforms under PM-WANI to simplify public Wi-Fi access
New Delhi, May 26
The Department of Telecommunications has introduced a series of citizen-friendly reforms under the PM-WANI framework aimed at simplifying public Wi-Fi access and improving digital connectivity across India.
According to the Ministry of Communications, the reforms include QR code-based authentication for laptops and secondary devices, introduction of flexible short-duration Wi-Fi plans and standardisation of hotspot names for easier identification and reliability.
According to the ministry, the new measures were introduced through DoT Circulars issued on May 22.
All PM-WANI stakeholders have been directed to implement the revised guidelines within eight weeks, making the upgraded features operational across the ecosystem by July 2026.
The move is part of the government's broader push to strengthen India's digital public infrastructure and improve affordable internet accessibility for citizens under the Digital India initiative.
Under the revised framework, users will now be able to connect laptops and secondary devices to PM-WANI hotspots through QR-based authentication by scanning a code using an authenticated smartphone application.
The Department said the feature is aimed at reducing login friction and improving user convenience while ensuring secure internet access.
The department has also advised hotspot operators to introduce sachet-style short-duration internet plans of 15, 30 and 60 minutes, particularly for users at transit hubs, malls and public places who require brief internet access.
According to the ministry, the flexible plans are expected to improve affordability for commuters, students and occasional users while also increasing hotspot utilisation and operator revenue.
In another key reform, hotspot names or SSIDs will now follow a standardised PMWANI branding format to help users identify authentic public Wi-Fi networks more easily.
The reforms come as the government seeks to improve accessibility, interoperability and citizen adoption under the PM-WANI ecosystem.
Speaking on the initiative, Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, said, "PM-WANI is our platform for universal public Wi-Fi access -- and we are making it easier to use."
"QR-based login now lets you connect your laptop simply by scanning a code on your phone. We have also advised hotspot operators to offer short-duration plans of 15, 30 and 60 minutes for users who need brief internet access," he added.
The ministry further said that public Wi-Fi is increasingly emerging as an important digital utility supporting students, commuters, travellers, professionals and small businesses across the country.
The reforms are being implemented under the leadership of Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia as part of efforts to strengthen the PM-WANI ecosystem and expand affordable digital connectivity nationwide.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Standardised SSIDs is a smart move. Too many fake hotspots with weird names like "Free_WiFi_5G_ASDL" trying to phish data. But I hope the authentication app itself is lightweight and works on low-end phones—many users still have JioPhones or basic Androids.
Good initiative, but let's be honest—India's public Wi-Fi hotspots are still riddled with slow speeds and frequent disconnections. Will these reforms actually improve the backend infrastructure, or just the login process? Still, baby steps are welcome. 🇮🇳
As a small shop owner in a Delhi market, I was offered a PM-WANI hotspot installation last year. The sachet plans will definitely attract more footfall—students from nearby colleges can buy 15-min passes to quickly check results or send assignments. Good for business! 🏪
I've used public Wi-Fi in Singapore and Korea where it's seamless and fast. This is a step in the right direction for India, but implementation will be key. Hope the DoT enforces the 8-week deadline strictly—no point in announcing reforms if operators drag their feet. 🕒
One concern: security of QR-based login. If someone scans a malicious QR code at a fake hotspot, they could get hacked. The government should also run awareness campaigns about only scanning PM-WANI branded codes. Otherwise, it's a great move for digital inclusion.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.