Welcome to CEVA

Centre for Education on Vernacular Architecture

The Centre for Education on Vernacular Architecture (CEVA) is dedicated to exploring the traditional housing systems of the Indian Himalayan Region. It dives into their structural construction methods, aiming to craft resilient vernacular housing techniques capable of withstanding climate and disaster challenges.

  • Open-Source Digital Learning

    CEVA serves as an open-source digital learning and knowledge dissemination platform initiated under the Department of Civil Engineering at IIT Ropar.

  • Funding By

    Its funding is supported by the National Mission on Himalayan Studies, operating under the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change.

Through meticulous documentation, research, and knowledge sharing, the project preserves time-honoured building practices known for effectively addressing environmental adversities in the region. By leveraging indigenous wisdom, communities can construct homes that not only promote environmental sustainability but also endure natural disasters like earthquakes, landslides, and extreme weather events. This initiative emphasizes the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage while tackling contemporary concerns related to climate change adaptation and disaster risk mitigation. By disseminating this valuable knowledge widely, communities are empowered to create safer and more sustainable living environments, thereby bolstering resilience and ensuring the long-term viability of settlements in the region.