Evaluation of Early Maturing Hybrids of Pearl millet in Arid Environment of Western Rajasthan

Abstract

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) is a vital cereal in arid and semi-arid regions due to its tolerance to
high temperature, moisture stress and poor soil fertility as well as its nutritional and fodder value. A study
was conducted at ARS, Bikaner under AICRP on Pearl Millet to evaluate 23 pearl millet entries including five
standard checks in the harsh agro-climatic conditions of western Rajasthan to identify early-maturing and
high-yielding genotypes. The experiment, laid out in a randomized block design with three replications,
recorded ten quantitative traits along with disease incidence. Significant variation was observed among
genotypes for all traits indicating substantial genetic variability. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients
of variation were recorded for grain yield while moderate values were observed for dry fodder yield and
panicle diameter. Most traits exhibited high heritability with grain yield and dry fodder yield showing both
high heritability and genetic advance, suggesting predominance of additive gene action. Plant height,
panicle length, panicle diameter and 1000-seed weight showed high heritability with moderate genetic
advance. No incidence of major diseases was recorded, indicating overall genetic stability. The findings
reveal considerable potential for selection and improvement of key traits and demonstrate the effectiveness
of phenotypic selection in developing superior pearl millet genotypes adapted to arid environments.