IIT Delhi and INAE Host Seminar on Indigenous Civil Engineering Practices in India

IIT Delhi CED and INAE host a seminar on Indigenous Knowledge in Civil Engineering, emphasising its value in modern practices and future infrastructure solutions. Check details here

The Department of Civil Engineering (CED) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, in partnership with the Delhi Chapter of the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) and the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Program, supported by the Ram and Mithlesh Gupta Foundation, hosted a technical seminar titled "Indigenous Knowledge in India on Civil Engineering." The seminar was presented by Professor Dr. T.G. Sitharam, Chairperson of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and former Director of IIT Guwahati.

The seminar drew a diverse audience of faculty, students, and professionals from across the country. It fostered academic dialogue and knowledge sharing, providing a platform for participants to explore India's rich civil engineering heritage. The event was conducted in a hybrid format, with both in-person and virtual (webinar) participation, ensuring wide accessibility to a broader range of attendees.

The Seminar began with an opening address delivered by Pradeep Chaturvedi, Vice-President of INAE, who emphasised the importance of integrating India's indigenous knowledge into modern engineering practices for a more sustainable and resilient future. Professor Dr Nomesh Bolia, Principal Investigator of the IKS Program at IIT Delhi, followed with remarks on how traditional knowledge can address global challenges such as climate change and resource conservation.

Professor Sitharam captivated the audience with his profound expertise in ancient civil engineering practices, showcasing numerous examples of India's extraordinary achievements in architecture and infrastructure. A major highlight of his presentation was the announcement that the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has sanctioned the establishment of an Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Cell under AICTE to promote research and education in traditional knowledge systems. He provided insights into the IKS Cell's ongoing initiatives, including studies on sustainable materials, ancient construction methods, and water management systems.

Additionally, Professor Sitharam highlighted the use of lime, clay, and surkhi mortar in iconic structures like the Ajanta Caves, Red Fort, Agra Fort, and Golconda Fort, illustrating the remarkable durability and longevity of these materials. He also discussed the traditional mud houses of Rajasthan, which are ideally suited to the region’s harsh climate and offer sustainable solutions to contemporary challenges.

A key focus of the seminar was Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture. Professor Sitharam elaborated on how Vastu Shastra influenced the design and orientation of buildings to foster a harmonious connection between people and their environment. He also highlighted remarkable examples of advanced metallurgy, such as the Iron Pillar of Delhi, which has remained rust-free for nearly 1900 years, demonstrating India's expertise in materials science. Further, he discussed the architectural marvels of Khajuraho and Hampi, both of which exemplify the sophistication of ancient Indian design and construction techniques.

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