Genetic variability, correlation and path analysis in rice (<i>Oryza sativa</i> L.) for yield and its component traits

The present study was conducted to evaluate genetic variability, heritability, and interrelationships among twelve agronomic traits in 27 paddy genotypes under irrigated conditions. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications during Kharif 2024 at the research farm of AKS University, Satna, Madhya Pradesh. Highly significant differences among genotypes were observed for all traits. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was noticed for number of productive tillers per plant, number of spikelets per plant and biological yield per plant, indicating the role of additive gene action and potential for selection. High GCV and PCV values were recorded for number of productive tillers per plant, harvest index, and number of spikelets per panicle suggesting substantial genetic variability and potential for selection Genotypic and phenotypic correlation analyses revealed that strong positive associations on seed yield with biological yield, harvest index, number of productive tillers per plant and harvest index. Path coefficient analysis showed that biological yield exerted highest positive direct effect on seed yield followed by harvest index and biological yield per plant. This study suggests that these traits are crucial for yield improvement in rice and can be targeted in breeding programs.