Diversity assessment and farmer participatory selection of proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) accessions in Lamjung, Nepal

Abstract

Assessment of genetic diversity is fundamental for crop improvement programs, as it helps to identify desirable traits and broaden the genetic base. Thus, research was carried out in augmented rod row design to assess phenotypic diversity and variation among 16 proso millet accessions at Sundarbazar, Lamjung, during rainy season of 2025. The maximum Shannon Weaver’s diversity (H') value was observed in susceptibility to aphids (1.58) and the lowest (H' = 0.66) in stigma color and panicle angle of branches. Flag leaf anthocyanin color intensity (χ²= 6.125, p=0.04) and spikelet shape (χ² = 7.625, p=0.02) were the only traits with significant differences (p < 0.05) among the studied accessions. The coefficient of variation (CV%) ranged from 9.37% for panicle length to 45.4% for days for 50% germination. The first 6 principal components contributed 85.4% of the total variation. NGRC07335, NGRC07336, and NGRC09157 from cluster III were the potential high-yielding accessions having 15,13 and 11 g per plant yield, respectively and identified as best performing accessions. NGRC 07335 (4.38), followed by NGRC 09157 and NGRC 07349 (4.06), were the top-ranked accessions in the participatory varietal selection process. Thus, the current study provides a foundational framework for characterizing and evaluating the diversity of proso millet accessions with significant potential for genetic enhancement and breeding programs.