Estimation of genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance using early backcross population of rice (Oryza sativa L.) at seedling stage stress condition

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) stands as one of the most crucial staple crops worldwide providing sustenance for over half of the global population. This study evaluated a total of 155 BC1F3population were screened under sand culture at seedling stage and reproductive stage with tolerant check Dular as positive control and improved lalat as susceptible at Crop Improvement Division, ICAR-National Rice Research Institute-Cuttack, focusing on yield and grain yield related traits under nutrient stress conditions. Significant genetic variability was observed for traits such as SPAD, shoot length and root length. Traits like SPAD and shoot length exhibited high heritability and genetic advance, indicating the effectiveness of direct selection methods. Leaf number showed high heritability with low genetic advance, suggesting the influence of both additive and non-additive gene effects.