Molecular genetic diversity population structure and fingerprinting of popular Indian rice cultivars

Abstract

Assessment of genetic diversity is a prerequisite to classify and identify varieties to be used in targeted plant breeding. Till date, a very few attempts were made to estimate the genetic diversity in popular Indian rice cultivars. Besides studying genetic diversity, it is also vital to establish the genetic identity through the development of cultivar specific newlinemolecular profiles to protect plant breeder s and Farmer s rights. It also newlinehelps to prevent unauthorized adoption of the varieties developed by them and also in DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability) testing for genetic identity and uniformity. In this regard, an attempt was made to estimate the genetic diversity and develop molecular profiles for major newlineIndian rice cultivars.