IIT Delhi CED, INAE hosts technical seminar on 'Indigenous Knowledge in India on Civil Engineering'

NEW DELHI: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Department of Civil Engineering (CED) in collaboration with the Delhi Chapter of the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) and the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Programme concluded a seminar titled ‘Indigenous Knowledge in India on Civil Engineering.’ The programme sponsored by the Ram and Mithlesh Gupta Foundation and was held in the Civil Engineering Auditorium at IIT Delhi.

The seminar was hosted by TG Sitharam the chairperson of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and former director of IIT Guwahati. The event introduced academic discourse and knowledge exchange, allowing participants to discuss India's civil engineering legacy. The seminar was held both in person and virtually (webinar) in hybrid mode to ensure accessibility for a wider spectrum of participants.

The seminar began with an opening address delivered by the vice-President of INAE Pradeep Chaturvedi, who emphasized the importance of integrating India's indigenous knowledge into modern engineering practices for a more sustainable and resilient future.

Nomesh Bolia the principal investigator of the IKS Programme at IIT Delhi shared remarks on how traditional knowledge can address global challenges including change in climate change and conservation of resources, the IIT Delhi CED statement added.

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Establishment of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Cell under AICTE

The chairperson of AICTE TG Sitharam shared his extensive knowledge of ancient civil engineering practices and stated examples of India's remarkable achievements in architecture and infrastructure.

The highlight of the event was the announcement of the establishment of an Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Cell aiming to advance education and research on traditional knowledge under AICTE, approved by the ministry of education and government of India, the official statement added.

He further elaborated on the ongoing activities of the IKS Cell, including research on sustainable materials, ancient construction techniques, and water management systems.

Lastly, the seminar concluded with an engaging discussion session, wherein attendees interacted with the speakers, and professor Sitharam to explore more about engineering knowledge and techniques that can be adapted to meet modern challenges in infrastructure, urbanization, and environmental sustainability.