EVALUATION OF GERMPLASM TO IDENTIFY GENETIC DIVERSITY AND CLIMATE RESILIENT HIGH YIELDING GENOTYPES IN CHICKPEA FOR FOOD SECURITY

Abstract

Background: Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a vital legume crop cultivated extensively in arid and semi-arid regions due to its high nutritional value and adaptability. However, its productivity is severely constrained by environmental stresses, particularly drought and irregular sowing schedules. Climate-induced fluctuations in temperature and rainfall patterns have intensified the challenge, affecting crop phenology and yield potential. Identifying genetically diverse and climate-resilient genotypes is essential to sustain chickpea production in changing agroecological conditions.

Objective: To evaluate genetic diversity and identify high-yielding, climate-resilient chickpea genotypes under different sowing time regimes.

Methods: A total of 200 Desi chickpea genotypes, including advanced lines and commercial varieties, were assessed during the 2024–2025 cropping season at the Pulses Research Institute, Faisalabad. The experiment used a randomized complete block design with three replications under two sowing dates—2nd November (D1) and 22nd November (D2). Phenological, morphological, and yield-related traits were recorded, and comparative analyses were conducted to determine drought response.

Results: Under D2 conditions, germination percentage decreased to 70–90%, with genotypes like D-97036 and D-95081 most affected. Days to 50% flowering and maturity were shortened by 15–25 days, indicating a rapid drought escape strategy. Plant height, branching, and pod number were significantly reduced; D-91038's height declined from 89.9 cm to 65.2 cm. The 100-grain weight dropped by up to 43.3%, and grain yield per plot decreased in all genotypes. CAM-94 and D-97054 demonstrated superior performance under D2 stress.

Conclusion: The study identified genotypes with consistent yield and phenological stability under late sowing and drought conditions, offering promising candidates for climate-resilient chickpea breeding programs.