Linseed Germplasm Field Day at ICAR-NBPGR on 25th February, 2020

Germplasm Field Day on Linseed was organized at ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi on 25th February, 2020. About 40 scientists belonging to IGKV, Raipur; PDKV, CoA, Nagpur; CCSHAU, Hisar; RLBCAU, Jhansi; Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi and Amity University, Noida participated in the field day. Dr. Ashok Kumar, Principal Scientist and Head, Division of Germplasm Evaluation, ICAR-NBPGR welcomed the participants and informed about the ongoing research program on characterization and evaluation of linseed germplasm at the Bureau. Dr. Kuldeep Singh, Director, ICAR-NBPGR stressed for trait specific evaluation of linseed germplasm for oil quality, biotic stresses particularly Fusarium wilt, Alternaria blight, budfly resistance and nutraceutical value. He emphasized the importance of field days for effective utilization of genetic resources in this regard. Dr. DK Yadava, Assistant Director General (Seeds), ICAR emphasized the need for focused and systematic research efforts in this minor but nutritionally and nutraceutically important oilseed crop. He also urged the breeders to provide feedback on germplasm utilization for impact analysis. The participants were taken to NBPGR farm, IARI for selection of materials. The concerned scientists explained about the germplasm, experimental design and layout plan. Entire collection of linseed germplasm conserved at National Gene Bank, comprising a total of 2871 accessions (single plant progenies) were grown in field for characterization, evaluation and validation of agronomically important traits besides seed multiplication. The accessions possessed variability for various agro-morphological traits such as plant architecture, corolla colour, flower shape, petal aestivation, plant height, number of primary branches, flowering & maturity time, number of capsules per plant, etc. which was appreciated by all. The participants examined the material critically and selected germplasm of their choice according to their breeding objectives. During feedback and interactive session, the participants appreciated the efforts of ICAR-NBPGR in displaying the variability and trait specific germplasm at appropriate stage. The detailed discussion was held for trait specific evaluation and utilization of germplasm in a collaborative manner. The program concluded with the vote of thanks.

(Source:  Dr. Ashok Kumar, Principal Scientist and Head, Division of Germplasm Evaluation, ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi)