Screening of Wheats for Resistance to Stem Rust under Artificial Epiphytotic Conditions in Maharashtra, India

Research was conducted to find stem rust resistance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) common varieties in India (Maharashtra). Released wheat varieties were evaluated for their resistance to stem rust at adult plant stage in artificially epiphytotic condition in field, during Rabi season of the year 2024–2025. The varieties were screened against a mixture of five dominant stem rust pathotypes, and disease reactions were categorized using Peterson’s Scale based on per cent rust infection. The results indicated that eight varieties viz., NIAW 4028, NIAW 34, Jay, NIDW 1149, NIAW 3624, NIAW 917, NIAW 1415, and NIDW 15 were resistant, while another eight varieties viz., Kenphad 25, NI 747-19, N 5749, NI 5643, NIAW 3170, Kenphad-39, N 146, and NI 917 exhibited moderate resistance. Five varieties viz., NI 345, NI 9947, Niphad-4, NIDW 295 and NIAW 1994 showed moderately susceptible reactions, and two varieties viz., N 5439 and NIAW 301 were susceptible. None of the entries showed complete immunity. Notably, twenty-one varieties recorded AUDPC values below 100, indicating effective resistance that can be exploited in breeding for durable stem rust resistance.