GRIHA – an acronym for Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment – is an independent society which was adopted by the Government of India in 2007 as the national rating system for green (energy efficient) buildings and campuses in India. Click here

GRIHA looks at factors such as energy consumption, waste generation, water management and renewable energy adoption. It evaluates the environmental performance of a building holistically over its entire life cycle, thereby providing a definitive standard for what constitutes a ‘green building’.

The master plan for IIM Udaipur’s campus has been awarded GRIHA’s 5 Star LD rating. This is the highest level of rating for large developments (total site area greater than or equal to 125 acres).

Environmental consciousness and ecological sustainability are part of IIMU’s core values. This recognition confirms that IIMU’s mission is being actively reflected in its activities from the ground up.

The overall design of the campus reflects the traditional fortress architecture that is a significant part of
Rajasthan's history and culture. The Academic Block is at the heart of the campus with lakes on two
sides and many courtyards (inspired by Udaipur's chowks) on different levels to take advantage of the
multitude of views. An imposing plaza next to the water provides a central meeting place as well as a
backdrop for large events.

The magnificent site is characterized by sharp slopes and deep valleys. As a result, the key design
principle is based on water retention and conservation. To make the campus self-sufficient in its water
supply requires a sophisticated scheme for rainwater harvesting during the monsoon. A system of check
dams is being put in place at strategic locations within the terrain to create several interlinked lakes.
During the construction process, natural catchments have been modified and water will be directed
through channels using the slope and direction of the land to be stored in the local water bodies for use
throughout the year.

The overall landscaping plan is equally advanced, involving a process of clearing the site to increase run-
off capacities; de-silting and re-silting areas as required to ensure better soil coverage; using contour
bunds, trenches and other means to increase soil moisture; improving erosion protection; and
increasing the organic content of the soil. Irrigation, when required, will utilize predominantly passive
systems supplemented by limited use of active methods.

The architecture has been designed to minimize energy consumption and a solar power farm will be
built on campus to generate electricity. In addition to conserving power and water, the campus has been
planned to be a zero-waste facility, where waste will be an important resource utilizing DEWATS
(Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems), vermicomposting and biogas production.

The campus will have a significant impact on the surrounding community which will reap benefits in
terms of production of flora, more stable year round grass supply and generation of a large number of
jobs in maintenance and other services.