Not with standing the Army contingents’ war drills along the Indo-Pak border for the second consecutive day on Sunday, villagers are showing no signs of panic.

Having witnessed migration during earlier wars, they are ready to face any eventuality even now, but want that peace should be given a chance.

“We want peace to prevail, but if war is the last option, then so be it,” said Sarbjit Singh, sarpanch of Burj village, where Army personnel have been clearing old bunkers and laying communication cables. He said they were seeing the Army movement first time after 2001’s Operation Parakaram that witnessed a massive defence build-up all along the border, following the terrorist attack on the Parliament. On the other hand, Army authorities termed the “movements” as routine exercises undertaken during regular intervals as part of larger Army war games planning.

Deputy Commandant of 11 Core Major General JS Kataria refused to comment, but Army spokesperson Naresh Wig admitted that drills were on. He, however, said, “These are normal drills, and there is no build-up.

But the Army is ready to meet any challenge.”

Nirwail Singh of Dauke village said many farmers, who work in fields across the electrified barbed fence, also claim to have seen movement of the Pak Army along the border.

Some Army contingents were seen clearing shrubs and organising camps in various border villages in Rajatal and other sectors. Their trucks were also seen moving in various villages. “Armymen have been moving in the area and have asked people to vacate the school buildings,” said Jagir Singh, a resident of Neshta village. “We know that war brings many troubles, the biggest being migration, but we are ready to help the Army in defending our borders,” he added.

Another villager, Karaj Singh, said efforts for peace should precede war. “Memories of the 1971 War are still fresh in our minds. If war breaks out, we will support the Army,” said Sarbjit.