Screening pearl millet germplasm for tolerance to soil salinity

Saline soils account for up to 580 million ha worldwide and are widespread In arid and semi-arid regions (Rengasamy 2002). Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum) is often grown In saline soils and Is known to be relatively better In tolerance to salinity than other crops, particularly maize (Zea mays) or legumes (Ashrafand McNeilly 1987, Dua 1989). However, a well-focused search can lead to the Identification of genotypes with superior tolerance. Since pearl millet Is usually grown rainfed with minimum Input, It Is all the more Important to genetically Improve the adaptation of this crop to soil salinity. The Improved salinity tolerant lines together with cultural management options provide greater scope for Improving the crop productivity in these saline soils