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Not AvailableRhizoctonia isolates collected from seven diverse maize cropping zones of India were examined for morphological and molecular variability. All the tested isolates caused symptoms of BLSB on maize and were also cross infective on rice and sugarcane hosts, but showed significant variability in hyphal diameter, mean hyphal cell size, weight, size and distribution of scleorotia, culture pigmentation, incubation period, pathogenicity and expression of symptoms. Neighbour joining cluster analysis placed the 62 isolates of R. solani into four major groups, A, B, C and D. Group Awas more diverse and included isolates of diverse agroecological zones. The cluster analysis corresponded well with principle component analysis. Pathogenicity testing of R. solani isolates on maize genotype (CM 501) revealed highly variable virulence pattern of the pathogen population suggesting its high evolutionary potential, and hence adaptability to diverse geographical regions. The study reveals a strong evidence of inherent potential of the R. solani isolates to survive in diverse ecological zones and its probable spread to other maize cultivars across India. Sequence comparisons of the internal transcribed sequence-ribosomal DNA region of 62 isolates did not reveal much diversity among the isolates. Majority of the isolates (n = 61) clustered together with anastomosis group (AG) AG1-IA used as reference strain in the phylogram, distinct from AG1-IB, AG2–2IIIB and Waitea circinata used as reference strains. BLSB isolates representing distinct geographical locations shared identical sequences indicating long-distance dispersal of the pathogen. The study confirms that the genetic flexibility of the pathogen allows for its adaptation to variable ecological niches and long-distance introduction of new genotypes into the region. The study emphasizes that epidemiological studies may complement the molecular studies.Not Availabl

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Not AvailableMalnutrition is one of the important problems which affect the overall human productivity costing huge economic losses to the nations. Addressing malnutrition problem is one of the important components of sustainable development goals. In this context, biofortification of staple food crops could be one of the most practical, environment friendly, cost effective and sustainable approaches in the long run. Maize (Zea mays L.) being staple food crop for more than 900 million populations across the globe, enhancing the nutrient content along with yield is of paramount importance. Maize display large genetic diversity for all the quality parameters and several mutants are available each of the quality traits. Across the globe, several efforts have been made to identify new gene(s) and QTLs for different quality traits and their mobilization to develop new and improved biofortified cultivars. However, any technology or product remains meaningless unless it reaches the main stakeholders. The main stakeholders are the poorest of poor of the society who are most affected due to malnutrition. In order to make biofortification a success story, there is need to address several challenges like appreciated support price for the produce, dedicated production zones, value addition and supply chain development. The policy intervention with respect to sensitization on importance of nutrient rich cultivars and their acceptance by farmers, traders and consumers are the key to success.Not Availabl