Molecular Marker-Based Assessment of Genetic Diversity and Quality Trait Specific Marker Validation

Abstract

India is considered as one of the centers of origin of rice (Oryza sativa L. ssp. indica) and a center of its diversity (Rana 1995). Archeological excavations have shown that rice has been a part of the food economy of early man in China and India from around 5000 BC (Sharma et al. 2000). Thousands of years of evolution because of adaptation to varied agroclimatic conditions and selection by farmers based on diverse quality preferences have resulted in accumulation of rich genetic diversity in rice. Singh and Singh (2003) reported that India has the world’s largest germplasm of scented rice varieties. Among scented rice, basmati rice is a unique varietal group which has distinguished itself in consequence of natural and human selection. The uniqueness of basmati rice is determined by extra long slender grain, higher elongation on cooking, soft and fluffy texture of cooked rice, and pleasant aroma. Besides the genetic makeup, the qualities of basmati rice are expressed when it is grown in the northwestern foothills of Himalayas under unique combination of growing conditions such as soil, water, climate, and cultural practices (Siddiq et al. 2012).