Seven sesame varieties namely Annamalai 1, CO 1, Paiyur 1, TMV 3, TMV 4, TMV 6 and VRI 1 were crossed in partial diallel method (excluding reciprocal). 21 hybrids along with their seven parents were evaluated for seed germination and seedling characters. Observations were made on seed germination, seedling size, seedling dry weight, seed and seedling vigour. Parents namely, Annamalai 1 and Paiyur 1 were found to be good combiners for all the seedling characters. Hybrids Annamalai 1 x CO 1, Annamalai 1 x Paiyur 1, Annamalai 1 x TMV 3, Paiyur 1 x TMV 3, TMV 4 x TMV 6 exhibited significant and positive sca effects. Hybrids involving good general combiners can be used through pedigree breeding for improvement of any character.
