Association analysis of grain yield and its component traits in backcross inbred lines (BILs) of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under reproductive stage moisture stress conditions

A set of twenty four BILs of rice (Oryza sativa L.) were assessed to examine inter-relationships of moisture stress tolerance and yield related traits under reproductive stage moisture stress conditions. Association analysis revealed that grain yield per plant exhibited highly significant positive association with harvest index, plant height, filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, biological yield per plant, number of tillers per plant, number of panicles per plant and 1000 grain weight. Among moisture stress tolerance related traits, shoot length and SCMR showed high and significant positive association with grain yield per plant.