Assessment of genetic divergence among Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) genotypes using quantitative and yield-related traits

The present study was conducted to assess the extent of genetic divergence among different genotypes of lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) using quantitative traits related to growth, yield, and yield components. A set of diverse lentil genotypes was evaluatedunder field conditions using a randomized block design with appropriate replications. Significant variation among 20 lentil genotypes for 12 important quantitative traits the present investigation J.V College Baraut Baghpat Uttar Pradesh was observed among thegenotypes for most of the traits studied, indicating the presence of substantial genetic diversity. Genetic divergence analysis grouped the genotypes into distinct clusters, suggesting wide genetic variability among the experimental material. Genotypes belonging to divergent clusters exhibited greater inter-cluster distances, indicating their potential usefulness as parents in hybridization programmes for the development of highyielding and widely adapted lentil varieties. The results of the study emphasize theimportance of exploiting genetic divergence in lentil breeding programmes to enhance productivity and broaden the genetic base.