Promising Round-shaped Variety Anand Raj Exhibiting Glossy Skin Characteristics in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)

Abstract

In brinjal, consumer preference hinges on multifaceted criteria encompassing nutritional content, visual appeal, and culinary attributes, while farmers prioritize factors such as yield potential and market suitability. In response to this dual demand spectrum, the cultivar "Anand Raj" was meticulously developed, and tailored to excel in the unique agro-climatic conditions prevalent in middle Gujarat. Anand Raj, emerged from the controlled cross breeding program involving AB 07-2 x GOB 1 utilizing the pedigree method of plant breeding at the Main Vegetable Research Station of Anand Agricultural University, Anand, spanning the years 2017 to 2021. Anand Raj showcased a mean fruit yield of 425.77 q/ha, exhibiting 25.47, 20.90, 24.33, 25.69 and 32.00% higher fruit yield in whole Gujarat while evaluating under PET, SSVT and LSVT. Based on mean fruit yield data, Anand raj (513.18q/ha) exhibited 26.88, 31.65, 47.55, 35.76 and 32.00 higher fruit yield at Anand during the kharif season compared to the controls GAOB 2, GNRB 1, GRB 5, Swarna Mani Black and GOB 1, respectively. Fruits of this variety have Strong Fruit: Glossiness at harvest maturity and shows lower susceptibility to diseases and pests. This variety presents a promising option for middle Gujarat, offering improved yields and market preference.