Elucidation of gene action and combining ability for grain and fodder yield and contributing traits in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]

The present investigation was undertaken to achieve information on gene action and combining ability in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. The experimental material consisted of eleven parents and their 28 Line * Tester crosses. The evaluation was carried out during Kharif, 2020 at Sorghum Research Station, S. D. Agricultural University, Deesa. The ratio of σ²_D/σ²_H being more than unity was found for days to flowering, which suggested a more significant role of additive genetic variance in the inheritance of this trait. In contrast, the rest of the yield and its component traits showed non-additive genetic variance. The gca effects indicated that parents, SR 3019, CSV 31 and GJ 43 were found as good general combiners for grain yield per plant. While, parents DS 156, CSV 31 and SPV 2682 were good general combiners for dry fodder yield per plant and its contributing traits. Based on estimates of sca effects, the most promising hybrids for grain yield per plant were viz., SR 2980 * CSV 31, SR 3019 * SPV 2573 and DSF 117 * SPV 2682, whereas for dry fodder yield per plant were viz.,SR 3048 * CSV 31, GJ 43 * SPV 2573 and DSF 168 * SPV 2573. The good general combiners for yield and contributing traits can be utilized in intensive crossing programme and select transgressive segregants for desired characters in segregating generations to develop superior lines.