Situation of Stem and Leaf Rusts of Wheat in Karnataka and Maharashtra States

Stem rust of wheat was not noticed from the area under investigation during rabi 2002–2003. However, during rabi 2001–2002 stem rust appeared in two trap nurseries. The incidence of leaf rust was noticed during both the years, however it was widely spread during rabi 2001–2002. During both the years, maximum severity of leaf rust (80 S) was noticed on varie~ies DWR 162 and MACS 2496. The near-isogenic lines Lr 9 and Lr 19 were cent per cent effective. Use of leaf rust gene combination as Lr 26 + 23 be minimised or avoided in the area whereas gene combination as Lr 34 + 13 be promoted in wheat improvement programme for peninsular India.