Abstract An investigation was undertaken to determine the extent of genetic diversity present among 52 proso millet genotypes using D2 statistic. Cluster analysis grouped 52 germplasm into six clusters based on the degree of divergence between the genotypes. Maximum number of 27 and 17 genotypes were grouped under cluster I and IV, respectively, while clusters III had three genotypes and clusters II and V consisting of 3 genotypes each and cluster VI had single genotype. Maximum inter cluster was observed between cluster V and VI (30.96) followed by cluster II and VI (28.47). The greater the distance between the two clusters indicates wider the genetic diversity between genotypes. Hence, the genotypes in cluster V viz., CO 5, 23/1 had wider diversity with PCGP 49 in cluster VI and these lines may be utilized in further breeding programme for the exploitation of hybrid vigour. The intra cluster distance was maximum in cluster V (13.77) followed by cluster I (11.40) indicates hybridization involving genotypes within the same clusters may result in good cross combinations. Among the six traits studied, maximum contribution was made by single plant grain yield (49.55%) followed by days to 50 per cent flowering (26.62%) and number of productive tillers (17.04%). Hence, grain yield, days to 50% flowering and number of productive tillers together contribute 93.21% towards total divergence. Therefore, these characters may be given importance during hybridization programme.
Keywords: Proso Millet, Genetic Diversity, Yield