AMN / NEW DELHI
The Union Cabinet approved setting up of public Wi-Fi networks to provide public Wi-Fi service through Public Data Offices without levy of any License Fee. Talking to reporters, Communication and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, the Public Wi-Fi Access Network Interface will be known as PM-WANI.
He said, it will promote growth of public Wi-Fi networks in the country and it will unleash a massive wi-fi revolution in the country.
Mr Prasad said, the Cabinet also cleared the provision of submarine optical fibre cable connectivity between mainland (Kochi) and Lakshadweep Islands. He said, it will cost Rs 1,072 crore.
The Cabinet also approved Universal Service Obligation Fund Scheme for providing mobile coverage in Arunachal Pradesh and two districts of Assam under the Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan for North Eastern Region. This project will provide mobile coverage to 2,374 uncovered villages at an estimated cost of implementation of about Rs 2,029 crore including operational expenses for five years. The project is targeted to be completed by December, 2022.