In a major step towards strengthening India’s digital public infrastructure and improving ease of internet access for citizens, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced a series of user-friendly reforms under the PM-WANI (Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) framework.

The new measures include:

• QR-based authentication for laptops and secondary devices
• Introduction of flexible short-duration Wi-Fi plans of 15, 30 and 60 minutes
• Standardisation of PM-WANI hotspot names (SSIDs) for easier identification and enhanced reliability

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

All PM-WANI stakeholders have been directed to implement the revised guidelines within eight weeks from the date of issuance of the circulars, making the new user-friendly features operational across the ecosystem by July 2026.

The reforms are part of the Government’s continuing efforts to translate the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi into accessible and affordable digital connectivity for every citizen.

Under the leadership of Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, the PM-WANI ecosystem is witnessing a comprehensive transformation focused on improving accessibility, interoperability, ease of use and citizen adoption.

Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani,, has recently held extensive review meetings with Department officials and stakeholders to accelerate implementation and improve user experience under PM-WANI.

Speaking about the reforms, Dr Pemmasani said that 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 stated that in today’s digital era, public Wi-Fi is emerging as an important public utility supporting students, travellers, commuters, professionals and small businesses across the country.

Simplified Laptop Connection via QR Authentication

The DoT now permits QR-based authentication for secondary devices like laptops to ease PM-WANI access. Users can connect by scanning a QR code on the login page using an authenticated smartphone app, reducing friction for a faster, secure experience.

Flexible Short-Duration Access Plans

To assist users at public locations like transit hubs and malls, the DoT has advised operators to offer sachet-style validity plans:

• 15, 30, and 60 minutes

These plans enhance affordability for commuters and students while boosting operator revenue and hotspot utilisation.

Standardised Hotspot Identification

SSID nomenclature is now standardised with PMWANI branding to help users identify authentic networks. Launched under the Digital India initiative, PM-WANI provides scalable, affordable internet through a distributed ecosystem of PDOs, PDOAs, and app providers. These reforms aim to drive nationwide adoption of public Wi-Fi infrastructure.

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NJ/ARJ