India, UK to jointly study changes in water cycle

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.

The improved predictions are expected to help both countries choose crops best suited to local conditions, potentially saving lives and safeguarding property.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) 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 last evening.

"It is not just an MoU it is followed up by resources. The UK has committed 2.5 million pounds for research in areas identified by the two sides," McFadden said here.

He said the Research Councils UK will work with their counterparts in India in studying the crucial area.

"For many regions, including the south of Britain and parts of India, there is no clear picture on whether climate change will mean more or less rain," he said.

"Studying the Indian monsoon is very crucial to the understanding of climate change and how it will unravel," Ajit Tyagi, Director General, India Meteorological Department (IMD), said.

He said Indian scientists, including those at IMD, were planning studies on monsoon and the British researchers are expected to join them in some areas.