Identification of some useful scented rice mutants for grain yield and quality traits

Fifteen advanced generation mutant lines derived from recurrent mutagenesis (EMS, NG and their combinations) of PB 1, Pusa Sugandha 2 and a popular local scented rice variety Ketakijoha were assessed for seed yield and sixteen physical and cooking quality traits. ORM 250-3 and 228-3 had more longer kernel (9.12mm) than even world's largest kernel (9.04mm.)genotype PS-4 (Pusa-1121) and the former was also more slender while, the later was breadth-wise equal to PS 4. Induction of mutation in Ketakijoha led to recovery of a very slender kernel(1.55mm) mutant ORM 242-2 which even excelled in kernel L/B ratio over its grain dimension. ORM 9203(a PB-1 mutant) and ORM 227-2(a Pusa Sugandha-2 mutant) with high yield potential and quality features serve as valuable genetic materials their use in further basmati rice breeding programme.