The Broadband India Forum (BIF) these days hosted an event on World Wi-Fi Day (June 12th), highlighting the essential position public Wi-Fi plays in bridging the digital divide.
Discussions focused across the modern-day country of public Wi-Fi get entry to in India and the want for considerable improvement.
Low Public Wi-Fi Penetration Despite Technological Advancements
While India boasts advancements in telecommunication era, with the transition from 5G to 6G on the horizon, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) acknowledges a regarding reality: low public Wi-Fi penetration.
The PM-WANI (Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) venture, a government initiative to establish public Wi-Fi hotspots, has set up around 2 lakh hotspots. However, this wide variety falls brief of the countrywide requirement. Compared to worldwide requirements, India calls for over 1 crore public Wi-Fi hotspots to make sure good enough and available internet connectivity for its citizens.
Public Wi-Fi vs. Mobile Data: A Balancing Act?
The event also sparked discussions regarding the competition between public Wi-Fi and mobile facts utilization.
While cellular records plans provide convenience and portability, public Wi-Fi affords a doubtlessly extra fee-powerful and often quicker net connection.
However, issues round security and reliability can deter users from embracing public Wi-Fi fully.
Broadband India Forum’s Call to Action
The BIF emphasizes the want for a multi-pronged technique to make bigger public Wi-Fi get admission to in India. This includes:
- Streamlining the approval procedure for putting in public Wi-Fi hotspots.
- Fostering public-non-public partnerships to leverage assets and knowledge.
- Implementing sturdy safety features to construct person trust in public Wi-Fi networks.
- Increasing awareness campaigns to teach customers on the advantages and secure usage of public Wi-Fi.
Broadband India’s ability hinges on not just technological improvements but additionally on ensuring equitable get admission to to the net for all. By prioritizing the growth and development of public Wi-Fi offerings, India can liberate a new technology of digital inclusion and empower its residents to absolutely participate within the on line international.
