Scientists from India and the UK have joined hands for studying the monsoon rains in the sub-continent to improve predictions on future patterns of flood and drought. <br/><br/>A Memorandum of Understanding for co-operation in studying changing water cycles was signed by Science and Technology Minister Prithviraj Chavan and British Minister for Business, Innovation and Skills Pat McFadden in New Delhi.<br/><br/>The improved predictions are expected to help both countries choose crops best suited to local conditions, potentially saving lives and safeguarding property. The UK has committed 2.5 million pounds for research in areas identified by the two sides.