Quantifying genetic variation for DUS descriptors in diverse finger millet germplasm evaluated under semi-arid Bundelkhand region of India

L.) is a nutritionally rich but underutilized crop found in semi-arid regions and drylands worldwide. To identify their genetically diverse and well-adapted genotypes to local conditions, a total of 162 germplasm lines, along with eight check varieties, were assessed during the rainy seasons of 2023 and 2024. The morphological characterization adhered to the Distinctiveness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) guidelines established by the PPV & FR Authority. The data collection concentrated on 14 qualitative traits and 13 quantitative traits. Significant variation was observed across all the traits. Specific traits such as earhead length, finger length, number of productive tillers, stover yield, and grain yield exhibited high heritability and significant genetic advance. The diversity index ranged from 0.162 for seed shape to 1.436 for ear shape. Grain yield demonstrated the most significant positive correlations with flag leaf width (0.503) and finger number (0.320). Cluster analysis classified the genotypes into six distinct clusters, with cluster 6 being highly diverse and possessing early maturing genotypes. PCA identified five principal components with eigenvalues greater than 1, collectively accounting for 70.1% of the total variation. The study identified genetically diverse and promising genotypes, establishing a solid foundation for targeted selection and breeding. The enhanced integration of molecular tools like genome-wide association studies may facilitate the precise selection of genotypes. The findings offer critical insights for selecting high-performing genotypes appropriate for cultivation and for improving breeding programs in this region.