Genetic Variability and Correlation Studies for Grain Yield and its Component Traits in Desi Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

This study involved 40 genotypes of Desi chickpea to evaluate the extent of genetic variability and the correlations between grain yield and its component traits. The experiment was conducted at Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour (Bhagalpur). The results indicated a high magnitude of genetic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for grain yield per plot, seed index, total effective pods per plant and secondary branches. This suggests that the variability among the genotypes provides significant potential for improving these traits through breeding programs. High heritability, combined with a high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean, was observed for traits such as the seed index, biological yield, grain yield per plot and total effective pods per plant. This indicates that these traits are primarily governed by additive gene effects, making them favorable for selection. Phenotypic correlation analysis revealed that grain yield per plot exhibited a highly significant and positive association with traits such as primary and secondary branches per plant, total pods per plant, total effective pods per plant, biological yield per plant, seed index, grain yield per plant and days to 50% flowering. These positive and significant relationships indicate a true linkage between these traits and grain yield. Therefore, direct selection for these traits is likely to be highly effective in improving grain yield.