Abstract:
A breeding programme was undertaken at the Rice Research Station, Vyttila to evolve high
yielding saline tolerant rice variety suitable for pokkali ecosystem. A cross was made between
Chettivirippu and IR 4630-22-2-17 and effective selection was made for the high yielding saline tolerant
genotypes suited to coastal saline soils. The selected genotype K AU 906 performed best in comparative
yield trials, farm trials and national level screening trials. The high yield of the genotype is mainly due
to higher number of productive tillers and filled grains per panicle, low sterility percentage and higher
1000 grain weight. The genotype was also found to be having maximum stability of performance over
years and was released as Vyttila 4 for cultivation in coastal saline soils.
