736 AGBIR Vol.39 No.6 Nov 2023 RESEARCH ARTICLE Department of Basic and Applied Science, RNB Global University, Bikaner-334601, Rajasthan, India Correspondence: Ravi Kishan Soni, Department of Basic and Applied Science, RNB Global University, Bikaner-334601, Rajasthan, India, E-mail: soniravikishan@gmail.com Received: 01-Nov-2023, Manuscript No. AGBIR-23-119416; Editor assigned: 03-Nov-2023, Pre QC No. AGBIR-23-119416 (PQ); Reviewed: 22-Nov-2023, QC No. AGBIR-23-119416; Revised: 29-Nov-2023, Manuscript No. AGBIR-23-119416 (R); Published: 06-Dec-2023, DOI:10.35248/0970-1907.23.39.736-739 This open-access article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License (CC BY-NC) (http:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits reuse, distribution and reproduction of the article, provided that the original work is properly cited and the reuse is restricted to noncommercial purposes. For commercial reuse, contact reprints@pulsus.com agricultural significance. Moth bean has long been considered a neglected crop, primarily from an evolutionary perspective, and consequently, it remains a secondary choice for many farmers. This neglect is further underscored by the scarcity of research efforts and the shortage of a systematic literature base concerning this legume. To harness the full potential of moth bean, there is a pressing requirement for extensive research focusing on its adaptability to diverse environmental conditions, the development of innovative cultivation practices, responses to inputs, and the creation of high-yielding varieties. In any breeding program, the ultimate goal is to achieve high yield, a complex trait influenced by a polygenic system and environmental fluctuations. The assessment of genetic variability in seed yield and other traits is a critical step in the selection of favored plant types. This evaluation helps in determining the relative performance of different genotypes in terms of various characteristics, serving as the foundation for the selection of suitable parent plants to enhance yield. The selection of genotypes can be informed by a range of genetic parameters, aiding breeders in making informed decisions. In any crop, the presence of variability within the plant population is the initial requirement for genetic improvement. The extent of this variation is measured using parameters such as Genetic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) and Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV), which offer insights into the diversity observed in various traits. Meanwhile, heritability provides valuable data on the potential for enhancing a trait through breeding endeavors. It provides indications of the genetic basis and complexity involved in enhancing a particular trait within a breeding program. The formulation of a plant breeding strategy heavily relies on genetic information concerning the inheritance and behavior of key quantitative traits linked to yield or other economically significant characteristics relevant to plant breeding endeavors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Kharif season of 2022, the research project was executed at the agricultural facility of RNB Global University located in Bikaner. The experiment followed a randomized block design with three replications and involved the examination of 30 different moth bean genotypes. Individual plants were placed 15 cm away from one another and the rows were spaced 30 cm apart. Each experimental plot included two rows, each of which was four meters long. The assessment of variability within the experimental treatments involved the consideration of eight distinct characteristics: Days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of branches per plant, pod length, seed index, number of seeds per pod, and seed yield per plant. Figure 1, on the other hand, illustrates weekly averages for total rainfall, relative humidity, temperature, and BSSH. The crop was grown in recommended Study of genetc parameters in moth bean [ Vigna aconitfolia (Jacq.)] Ravi Kishan Soni * , Gajanand Modi Soni RK, Modi G. Study of genetic parameters in moth bean [Vigna aconitifolia (Jacq.)]. AGBIR.2023;39(6):736-739. A research was initiated to examine the genetic diversity of seed yield in moth bean crops during the kharif-2022 season, specifically at the agricultural farm of RNB Global University in Bikaner. Using a randomized block design with 3 replications, the study utilized 30 different genotypes of moth beans as its experimental material. The results of the analysis of variance pointed to the substantial genetic variation present within the genotypes for all the measured attributes, including the duration to reach 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, the number of branches per plant, the number of seeds per pod, and seed yield per plant. High genotypic and phenotypic coefficient variance values were evident for days to 50% flowering, plant height, the number of branches per plant, and seed yield per plant. Furthermore, heritability estimates were notably high for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, the number of branches per plant, the number of seeds per pod, and seed yield per plant. Days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, the number of branches per plant, the number of seeds per pod, and seed yield per plant displayed a combination of high heritability and significant genetic advance, underscoring their genetic value. Key Words: Moth bean; Genetic variability; Heritability; Genetic advance; GCV; PCV INTRODUCTION M oth bean, scientifically known as Vigna aconitifolia, falls under the Vigna genus and is a part of the Leguminaceae family, situated in the Papilionaceae subfamily. It possesses a unique chromosome number of 2n=2x=22. Typically, this plant exhibits a bushy to semi-erect growth pattern, characterized by abundant leaves and a compact stem. Its deep roots contribute to its impressive drought tolerance. Historical records, including accounts by de Candolle [1], Vavilov [2], and Jain et al. [3], trace the origins of moth bean back to India, particularly the central plateau region, considered its primary center of origin. Globally, India leads in the cultivation of moth beans, with substantial plantings also observed in territories like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Myanmar, South China, and the USA. Moth bean cultivation in India is predominantly centered in the state of Rajasthan, with the kharif season being the primary timeframe for this agricultural practice. Rajasthan plays a significant role, accounting for 75% of the nation's total cultivation area and 55% of its production, making it the top contributor in terms of both cultivation area (13.87 lakh hectares) and production (4.34 lakh tonnes). Additionally, the state achieves an impressive productivity rate of 310 kilograms per hectare. Other states, including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh, also engage in moth bean cultivation, particularly on marginal lands. Moth bean serves as a vital pulse crop, well-suited for the hot, arid regions of India, demonstrating its adaptability to extreme ecological niches, particularly its ability to withstand harsh drought and scorching climatic conditions. Moth bean seeds are a valuable protein source, boasting a protein content of approximately 22-24%. What makes them particularly noteworthy is their affordability compared to other pulse crops, which positions them as a dietary staple for low-income individuals and tribal communities residing in the provincial areas where they are cultivated. Moth beans exhibit a productivity of 4 quintals per hectare, mainly because they thrive in poor and marginal soils, often without requiring extensive inputs. This resilient legume is well- suited to hot and arid climates, showcasing exceptional drought resistance thanks to its robust deep root system. It can endure high temperatures without hindering its flowering and fruit development. Moreover, it serves as a valuable source of hay, on par with the quality of alfalfa. In culinary contexts, moth beans play versatile roles, being used to prepare Dal (Mogar), sprouts, and green pods for vegetable consumption. Notably, they play a central role in the creation of the famous spicy snack, Bikaneri Bhujiya. Additionally, the extensive canopy of moth bean plants serves as a natural moisture preserver and helps protect soil against erosion. Beyond human consumption, moth beans act as a provider of green fodder for animals, further enhancing their