In a breakthrough, scientists, including one of Indian origin, have developed plants that have a better chance of surviving droughts by enhancing the natural ability of their leaves to preserve water.<br/><br/>Researchers said, the new method has helped some plants survive 50 per cent longer in drought conditions, and could eventually benefit major crops such as barley, rice and wheat, which are crucial to world food supplies.<br/><br/>Researchers from Australian National University mapped a new molecular signalling pathway that controls the ability of plants to close the pores on their leaves to conserve water during drought stress.<br/><br/>The team found that chloroplasts, better known for their role in photosynthesis, are actually key players that work together with plant hormones during drought stress.