What should I do if my Thai DTV application process leads to unexpected embassy visits and fees?

Hi everyone, I’m feeling stressed and a bit confused, so I wanted to ask for some advice.

I recently applied through an agent, (recommended by a friend) for the DTV.

Before paying they said absolutely all the procedure and payments were online transactions.

Once I paid them and the 6 months cooking school, they said I should pay the embassy fee in person.

This was initially something I asked and they said very clearly that was no need to visit the embassy.

Im in India and should take a flight to reach Mumbai.

I paid my monthly rent where I live and though they only spoke about just paying in person, now they suggested me to stay for a couple of weeks in Mumbai till the procedure is finish.

I tried to call Mumbai embassy and the number I can find online doesn’t exist.

The agents can not provide a proper number.

They also mentioned about a case of someone who was granted a 6 months visa at this consulate instead of 5 years, after paying a 6 months soft power. So they encouraged me to pay one year soft power.

I didn’t…

Did anyone have a similar experience? How is about the embassy payments?

Does anyone have a contact of Thai Mumbai consulate?

I would really appreciate your comments .

*half an hour ago the agent said that they will refund their fee.

He didn’t mention about the soft power payment I made.

However, being in India and having to start again, what do you suggest me?

Do I need the soft power if I do it myself and should I travel to Thailand and then leave to Vietnam or Laos to go on with the process? How many days can take?

My idea is to spend there around 2 years or so..

Thank you in advance 🙏