Genetic distance analysis among nine endogamous population groups of Maharashtra, India

Genetic distance analysis based on 16 biochemical markers, following Nei's distance measure has been performed on nine endogamous groups of Maharashtra: Nava Budha, Maratha, Deshastha Rigvedi Brahmin, Chitpavan Brahmin, Chandrasenya Kayastha Prabhu, Parsis, Bhil, Pawara and Katkari. The distances between these groups are small as compared to the within group heterogeneity. The average heterozygosity per gene per locus is high for all the populations (in the range of 20-22%). The observed clusterings among these nine groups, in general, are compatible with the known ethnic history of Maharashtra