TRAI floats consultation paper tweaking public Wi-Fi network regulations
This story was originally published at 18:29 IST on 27 April 2026
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MUMBAI – The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Monday released a consultation paper titled "Proliferation of Public Wi-Fi Networks in India", reviewing the existing regulatory framework, identifying challenges affecting the proliferation of public Wi-Fi networks. The regulator has sought views from stakeholders on measures to accelerate the growth of public Wi-Fi infrastructure across the country, according to a press release.
Comments have been sought by May 25 and any counter comments by Jun. 8. The paper covers the overview of the public Wi-Fi ecosystem in other countries and their key takeaways. It also examines the roles of key stakeholders such as the Central and State governments, local bodies, and private entities for developing viable public Wi-Fi models across rural areas, urban centres, and locations with high footfall.
"Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's (TRAI's) consultation on expanding public Wi-Fi networks is a timely and strategic step toward strengthening last-mile connectivity and accelerating digital inclusion," Paritosh Prajapati, chief executive officer of GX Group, said in a note. "A simplified, forward-looking regulatory framework will be critical to scaling the PM-WANI ecosystem, enabling broader participation, and ensuring affordable internet access across underserved regions," Prajapati said.
PM-WANI, or Prime Minister's Wi-Fi Access Network Interface, is a government initiative to provide high-speed and affordable Wi-Fi throughout the country. This initiative was launched in December 2020. End
Reported by Ashutosh Pati
Edited by Deepshikha Bhardwaj
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