Genetic variability, trait associations and path analysis of yield and downy mildew resistance in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.)

The present study was conducted during the kharif season of 2025 at Jaipur, Rajasthan, to assess the extent of genetic variability, heritability and interrelationships among 51 genotypes of Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. (pearl millet)) for yield and associated traits. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with 2 replications. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among genotypes for most of the traits, indicating substantial genetic variability and potential for selection and improvement. The estimates of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were highest for downy mildew intensity and severity, suggesting wide genetic diversity for disease resistance. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for plant height, panicle girth and disease-related traits, implying the predominance of additive gene action. Correlation analysis indicated that yield per plot was positively and significantly associated with panicle length and girth, identifying these as key yield-contributing traits along with panicle density and productive tillers. Path coefficient analysis further revealed that panicle length exerted the highest positive direct effect on grain yield, while disease-related traits showed negative associations. Overall, the study highlights considerable genetic variability and identifies panicle traits and downy mildew resistance as crucial determinants of yield performance in pearl millet, providing valuable insights for the development of high-yielding, disease-resistant cultivars suited to semi-arid environments.