Surprisingly and suddenly, the government seems to have set itself in motion to execute the Digital India campaign launched eight years ago. First, it started to gear up to provide internet in schools, and now it is running a project to provide hassle-free Wi-Fi networks and hotspots to the citizens and tourists at selective places in Goa.
Whatever the agenda, providing free internet will make the information superhighway more widely available, bridge the digital divide and encourage digital inclusion.
The moment one steps out of one’s house, one realises that everything has gone digital. From ordering food to paying at different shops. Cashless travel is another term that is trending today.
Thus, the internet is a necessity now alongside digital literacy. The Government of India is aware of the value of internet connectivity for social interaction, career prospects and education and, therefore, although it’s come late to us in Goa, it is still a step to be appreciated.
By this free or inexpensive public Wi-Fi, they will guarantee that all citizens have access to online information and services. Internet access can promote economic growth by allowing entrepreneurs, small enterprises, and start-ups to interact with customers and markets online.
Public Wi-Fi can boost local companies and regional economies; shops, cafes, restaurants and other businesses can advertise their goods and services online to draw clients and even run special deals for Wi-Fi users. As a result, businesses may experience an increase in foot traffic and sales, which will benefit the neighbourhood economy.
Tourists can access information about neighbourhood restaurants, sights, events and instructions online when visiting a new location. This improves their whole experience and makes them want to stay longer and spend more money on shopping, dining and accommodation.
It can also draw tourists because today's tourists frequently use the internet to plan and conduct research for their travels. Travellers are more likely to visit a city or location when there is free public Wi-Fi available.
Tourists can access information about neighbourhood restaurants, sights, events and instructions online when visiting a new location. This improves their whole experience and makes them want to stay longer and spend more money on shopping, dining and accommodation.
Tourists are more inclined to recommend a destination and its attractions to others if they have a favourable experience using public Wi-Fi.
This word-of-mouth advertising may encourage more visitors to the region. Participation in regional gatherings, festivals and conferences can be made easier via public Wi-Fi. Schedules, maps and event details are easily accessible to visitors, encouraging them to participate in these activities and boost businesses.
Having free Wi-Fi available can improve visitors’ overall satisfaction. Their stay will be more enjoyable as a result of being able to communicate with friends and family, share experiences, and traverse the area with ease.
Travellers are increasingly sharing their experiences through “digital tourism” on social media sites. Public Wi-Fi access enables visitors to share their experiences in real-time, highlighting the location’s charms and enticing others to travel to Goa.
All of the government's essential services are provided online. Publicly available free Wi-Fi would make it easier to access these services. These services would be accessible from various locations such as libraries, community centres, public parks and other public spaces.
All of the government's essential services are provided online. Publicly available free Wi-Fi would make it easier to access these services. These services would be accessible from various locations such as libraries, community centres, public parks and other public spaces.
This convenience eliminates the need for citizens to rely solely on their home internet connection or mobile data, making it more accessible to a broader range of people.
Online government services frequently eliminate the need for residents to travel to government offices physically, saving time and money on transportation. Public Wi-Fi makes it possible for residents to carry out chores like paying taxes, requesting permits or accessing public documents without having to go there in person.
By allowing citizens to access these services online, government offices may see less congestion and long queues, which will result in more efficient operations and more customer satisfaction.
Apart from this, public Wi-Fi networks can be used as communication conduits in times of emergency, allowing citizens to contact loved ones and authorities to spread information. Thankfully, Goa is safe from emergencies that the other states in India face.
Nevertheless, the authorities sometimes need to promptly deliver critical information to the public during emergencies such as natural disasters, accidents or other urgent situations. To keep the public informed and to facilitate educated decision-making, public Wi-Fi networks can be used to broadcast emergency alerts, updates, evacuation directions and safety rules.
Whatsoever the case, after having provided public Wi-Fi, the government should allocate a team to monitor its active functioning and maintenance. Because there are a lot of times, these services are provided and nobody bothers about their proper consistent delivery or maintenance.
To preserve their safety and well-being, people frequently need to speak with their loved ones during emergencies. Even when mobile networks are busy or inaccessible, people can utilise public Wi-Fi networks to connect with their loved ones via messaging apps, social media and other communication tools.
Whatsoever the case, after having provided public Wi-Fi, the government should allocate a team to monitor its active functioning and maintenance. Because there are a lot of times, these services are provided and nobody bothers about their proper consistent delivery or maintenance.
Proper maintenance and top-notch delivery of Wi-Fi will keep the public satisfied and prove that this campaign is not going to devolve into a flash in the pan.