Enumeration of genetic variability parameters among genotypes of Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.]

Abstract

Indian mustard is an important oilseed crop; improving its yield and productivity primarily depends on a deep understanding
of the genetic variation and heritability of its yield-contributing traits. In order to assess this, an experiment was
conducted using forty Indian mustard genotypes for thirteen quantitative traits at Agricultural Research Station,
Ummedganj, Kota during Rabi 2022-23. The experiment laid in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Significant
variation was observed among genotypes for all traits. Secondary branches per plant showed the highest PCV, while
biological yield, harvest index, 1000-seed weight and primary branches exhibited moderate GCV and PCV. Number of
siliquae per plant and seed yield per plant expressed moderate PCV. Minimal differences between GCV and PCV for 1000-
seed weight, days to maturity, oil content and days to 50% flowering indicated strong genetic control. Traits such as
1000-seed weight, secondary branches, harvest index and biological yield which exhibited high heritability coupled with
high genetic advance as percent of mean were identified as promising targets for improvement through simple selection.
The genotypes viz., RKM 544, RKM 513, RKM 562, RKM 593 and RKM 530 were found best five genotypes based on
their mean performance for seed yield per plant. Additionally, they performed better in terms of other attributes like
number of siliquae per plant, number of secondary branches per plant and harvest index. Therefore, these genotypes
have the potential to play a significant role in future endeavours aimed at improving crop productivity, particularly in
Indian mustard breeding programmes.