Near-isogenic lines in NP 4 background carrying the genes Lr13, Lr18, Lr19 and Lr26 as locally adapted differentials for Indian pathotypes of wheat leaf rust

A backcross programme was conducted to transfer 13 of the Lr genes present in the leaf rust differentials being currently used in India viz., Lr1, Lr2a, Lr2c, Lr3a, Lr9, Lr10, Lr13, Lr15, Lr17a, Lr18, Lr19, Lr20 and Lr26 in the background of wheat variety NP 4 having desired agronomic traits. Homozygous resistant lines carrying these genes singly have been developed through six backcrosses and subsequent selection. Nine of these lines have already been reported. Present communication reports the remaining four lines carrying the genes Lr13, Lr18, Lr19 and Lr26. These lines being locally adapted and early maturing are easy to maintain under Indian conditions, and can be widely used for virulence analysis and genetic studies.