America's keen interest in India goes beyond the nuclear deal. It has also sent the highest number of tourists to India according to data collated by the tourism ministry.

The US has replaced the UK as the country sending the largest number of tourists to India. The number of visitors from the US touched 7.99 lakh, higher than those from any other country, out of the total 50.81 lakh foreigners who came to India last year. The UK—traditionally the leader—has come a close second, sending 7.96 lakh visitors in 2007. In 2006, their number was 7.34 lakh.

Incidentally, Bangladesh—often rapped for the infiltration of illegal migrants—is also sending visitors to India through the 'legal channel' for tourism and business. It was the third highest tourist-generating country in 2007, ahead of both Canada and France. Interestingly, the number of visitors from Bangladesh has decreased from 4.84 lakh in 2006 to 4.80 lakh in 2007.

Arrivals from Canada and France have, however, shown considerable increase despite the drop in their rankings. While 2.08 lakh Canadians visited India in 2007, their number was 1.76 lakh in 2006. The number of French tourists also increased from 1.75 lakh to 2.04 lakh. Sri Lanka (2.04 lakh), Germany (1.84 lakh), Japan (1.45 lakh), Australia (1.35 lakh) and Malaysia (1.12 lakh) have emerged as the top ten tourist generating markets for India.

According to data compiled by the tourism ministry, foreign tourist arrivals have grown by 11.5% in 2007-08. Industry sources have pointed out that the growth of tourists in India could be much higher but for the high costs of accommodation and air travel.

"In a fiercely competitive market, we are losing out to our south-east Asian neighbours who are dealing with large volumes. India, with its diversity, can offer tourists interests ranging from adventure sports, sanctuaries, heritage sites, pilgrimage spots, beaches and mountains if it's able to exploit its potential," an industry source said.