Genetic variability and trait associations for seed yield and related traits in Indian mustard (<i>Brassica juncea </i>L.)

An experiment was conducted using eighteen Indian mustard genotypes evaluated in a randomized block design with two replications. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all characters studied, indicating the presence of substantial genetic variability. High genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were recorded for 1000-seed weight, while moderate variability was observed for seed yield per plot, number of primary and secondary branches and seeds per siliqua. Seed yield exhibited strong positive correlations with days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of secondary branches, siliqua length, seeds per siliqua, 1000-seed weight, and number of siliquae per plant. Path coefficient analysis further identified days to 50% flowering, number of primary and secondary branches, siliqua length, seeds per siliqua, and 1000-seed weight as traits exerting positive direct effects on seed yield, suggesting their importance in selection strategies. Based on overall performance, the genotypes DRMR-1165-40, DRMR-IJ-31, DRMR-150-35, CS-60, RH-725, and Pusa Mustard-30 were found superior, with DRMR-1165-40 recording the highest seed yield. These genotypes may be utilized in future breeding programs to enhance the productivity of mustard.