Genetic Variability and Interrelationship in Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes for Grain Yield and Yield Component Characters

An experiment was conducted including 20 genotypes of maize during Kharif season of 2020-21. All characters under study showed highly significant variation. High values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were observed for the characters like anthesis and silking interval, grain yield per plant, biological yield, number of grains per row, number of grain rows per cob, harvest index and ear height. Biological yield per plant, plant height, grain yield per plant, ear height and harvest index showed high heritability coupled with high genetic advance suggesting their importance for direct selection. Number of cobs per plant, ear length, number of grains per row, 100 grain weight, harvest index, biological yield exhibited significant positive association with grain yield per plant. Highest direct positive effect on yield per plant was observed for harvest index followed biological yield, number of cobs per plant, anthesis and silking interval. Thus priority should be given to these characters during selection for maize yield improvement.