Cebu, Oct. 28 -- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said India's global stature and defence preparedness have grown, asserting that the country does not provoke anyone but responds firmly when provoked.

Addressing the Indian community in Cebu, the Philippines, on the sidelines of his 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), Singh highlighted India's growing international standing, economic progress, defence capabilities and efforts to curb corruption.

"India's prestige has grown across the globe. Had this not been the case, the leadership of 35 countries would not have honored our Prime Minister with their highest civilian honors. Today, when India speaks, the world listens with rapt attention," Singh said.

Emph...