Trait relationship and path coefficient analysis in finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.)

A field experiment was conducted to carry out yield component analysis through correlation and path analysis. Forty eight genotypes of finger millet were sown in a randomized block design with three replications, during kharif 2012 at National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources research field, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The objective of the experiment was to assess the nature of interrelationships and direct and indirect effect of different yield contributing traits towards grain yield. From correlation studies it was observed that grain yield per plant has exhibited significant positive association with total no. of basal tillers per plant, productive tillers per plant, total fingers on the main ear, finger length and finger width. Path analysis revealed that maximum positive direct effect on grain yield per plant was exhibited productive tillers per plant followed by Finger length, Finger width. Therefore, it is emphasized to lay attention on traits like productive tillers per plant followed by Finger length, Finger width while selecting for improvement in grain yield of finger millet.