Multivariate Analysis in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Cultivars

The present study was conducted to evaluate genetic variability and trait associations among 36 chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes, including one check variety, at SHUATS, Prayagraj, during the Rabi 2021 season using a randomized block design with three replications. Thirteen morphological and yield-related traits were recorded and analyzed for genetic variability, heritability, correlation, and path coefficient analysis. Significant variation was observed across all traits, indicating substantial genetic diversity. High heritability was recorded for days to maturity (97.20%), plant height (92.40%), number of primary branches (84.31%), days to 50% flowering (72.50%), and seed yield per plant (60.50%), suggesting these traits are under strong genetic control. Genetic advance was highest for plant height (41.30%), number of primary branches (39.38%), and biological yield (24.17%). Seed yield per plant showed strong positive correlations with number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, and 100-seed weight. Principal component analysis explained 29.36% of the total variation in the first principal component. Cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into six distinct clusters, highlighting genetic divergence. Genotype ICC 2300 was identified as the most promising for seed yield per plant. These findings provide useful insights for selecting high-yielding genotypes and inform future chickpea breeding programs.