CHARACTER ASSOCIATION AND PATH ANALYSIS IN CHICKPEA (CICER ARIETINUM L.) UNDER CONSERVED SOIL MOISTURE

Twenty-two genetically diverse genotypes of chickpea were evaluated under rainfed condition to understand the contribution of various characters to the yield. The genotypic correlation coefficients were higher than corresponding phenotypic ones for most of the character combinations. 100 seed weight and harvest index had a significant positive association with seed yield. Pods per plant and seed per pod had a positive association with seed yield. The maximum direct positive and negative contribution to seed yield was observed from biological yield per plant and days to maturity, respectively. The harvest index, 100-seed weight, pods per plant and earliness were most important characters which can be used to improve yield in chickpea under rainfed area.