Published Paper Details:

Induced mutations is the best method to improve genetic variation within short time. Creation of genetic variation by induced mutations proved best for strengthening crop improvement programmes and represents a more efficient source of genetic variability than the gene pool protects by nature. In the present investigation seeds of finger millet were treated with different doses of gamma rays (GR) ranging from 200, 300 and 400Gy, varying concentration of ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS) 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4% and Sodium azide (SA) 0.02, 0.03 and 0.04%. Variations in the germination percent of seeds, seedling height, seedling injury and survival of plant at maturity of finger millet were recorded in M1 generation. The effects of the mutagenic treatments on quantitative traits resulting in reduction in traits such as percent seed germination except 200Gy (85.16%), 0.2% EMS (83.53%) and 0.02% SA (86.65%), seedling height except 200Gy (6.59cm), 0.2%EMS (6.54cm) and 0.02%SA (6.98cm) while survival of plant at maturity except 200Gy (79.26%), 0.2% EMS (78.41%) and 0.02%SA (81.54%) but increases seedling injury except 200Gy (-01.86%), 0.2% EMS (-01.08%) and 0.02%SA (-07.88%) was observed in treated M1 generated plants.