PLANT CELL BIOTECHNOLOGY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Genetic variability and trait associations are essential for improving fruit yield in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench). The present study was conducted during Kharif 2025 at the Research Farm, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, AKS University, Satna, Madhya Pradesh, to evaluate 17 diverse okra genotypes using a randomised block design with three replications. Thirteen quantitative traits were recorded and analysed for genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation, and path coefficient analysis. Significant differences among genotypes for most traits indicated considerable genetic variability. The phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation for all traits, reflecting environmental influences on trait expression. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for days to 50% flowering, days to first flowering, days to first picking, and plant height, suggesting the predominance of additive gene action. Fruit yield per plant showed significant positive associations with the number of fruits per plant, fruit width, fruit weight, days to first picking, and days to 50% flowering. Path coefficient analysis revealed that days to first flowering had the highest positive direct effect on fruit yield, followed by plant height and fruit width. These traits may therefore serve as useful selection criteria for improving fruit yield and developing high-yielding okra cultivars.