GENETIC VARIABILITY STUDY IN READY TO ROAST GENOTYPES OF DESI CHICKPEA (CICER ARIETINUM L.)

The study evaluated genetic variability in seed yield across 16 chickpea genotypes (12 ready to roast genotypes and four commercial checks viz., JG 11, A-1, SA-1 and GULAK) during Rabi 2023-24 at three locations (Bidar, Kalaburagi and Raichur) in Karnataka.Experiment was conducted in a Randomized Block Design, the experiment followed recommended agronomic practices for the region Significant genetic variation was observed, particularly in traits like swelling and hydration capacity, which displayed high genotypic and phenotypic co-efficient of variation, indicating strong genetic variability with minimal environmental influence.High heritability and genetic advance were noted for traits like test weight and iron content, suggesting they are influenced by additive genetic factors.