Originally Posted by hyderago

The visa application process helps not just screen visa applicants but also serves as a source of revenue for MEA.

I don't really think we are turning back many tourists. Most people who want to visit India really want to visit it and are willing to get an Indian visa. This is atleast the case in N America, western Europe. I'm not that familiar with SE Asia and the Orient - I admit things could be different for visitors from those countries.

I think the only visitors we are losing with this visa requirement are those who choose not to transit for a couple of days through India. While it does suck to lose these visitors, I think these losses are outweighed by the monetary and other benefits we get from having a visa system.