Character Association of Yield and Quality Traits in NPT lines of Rice

Rice occupies a pivotal role in Indian agriculture as rice is the staple food for nearly 70 per cent of the population and a source of livelihood for about 120 to 150 million rural households. Globally, India stands first in rice cultivation area and second in rice production, after China. It contributes 26.9 per cent of worldwide rice production. Within the nation, rice occupies one-quarter of the total cropped area, contributes around 40 to 43 per cent of total food grain production. To increase yield in tropical rice, it was important to improve biomass production and Harvest Index by increasing their nitrogen responsiveness and lodging resistance and better partitioning of photosynthates. To increase the yield potential of semi-dwarf rice, IRRI scientists proposed a new plant type (NPT; IRRI 1989) with the characteristics of reduced tillering (9-10 for transplanted conditions), no unproductive tillers, 200-250 grains per panicle, dark green and erect leaves, vigorous and deep root system, growth duration of 110-130 days, multiple disease and insect resistance and higher harvest index.