ABSTRACT
To study the genetic variability and correlation in thirty two promising lines (17 B lines, 13 R lines along with 2 checks) were evaluated for grain yield and yield contributing characters. Analysis of variance revealed that there were significant differences for all characters among lines including the presence of wide genetic variability in the experimental materials. The high genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed grain yield plant-1 harvest index, fodder yield, grains primary-1 branches, field grade score, leaf area index, plant height , panicle width and panicle length. The high heritability estimates coupled with high expected genetic advance were observed for fodder yield plant-1, harvest index, grains primary-1 branches and yield plant-1 indicating the presence of additive gene action and phenotypic selection may be effective. The correlation studies revealed positive and significant genotypic and phenotypic correlation of plant height, panicle length, panicle width, test weight, primary branches-1 panicle, grains primary-1 branches, and harvest index with grain yield plant-1, indicating the importance of these characters for improving grain yield plant-1. The path coefficient analysis revealed that the characters viz., panicle length, test weight, plant height, harvest index, threshed grade score, relative water content and panicle width had high positive direct effect on grain yield plant-1.