Texture mostly, if you don't wash it thoroughly it will end up with a gunky texture, it's nice for the rice to have some "gunk" when you're doing sushi but too much and it becomes a mess.

i think it is better in terms of taste and texture. but not a big and noticeable difference. if i have time i could rinse it 10-15 times and it takes about 30 min. but usually i just quickly rinse it once or twice and it still tastes good.

What exactly is the giveaway or the result of not doing so? its not something i notice eitherway with standard indian type of rice washed or not.

*quite

Good deal, however you have to wash this rice quiet a lot before using.