<p style="text-align:justify">The book is in accordance with the recommendations of the <strong>ICAR Sixth Deans&#39; Committee and NEP-2020</strong>, this textbook presents the fundamental and applied aspects of Plant Breeding in a comprehensive, student-friendly, and outcome-oriented manner. The book systematically covers the principles of inheritance, genetic variability, breeding methods for self-, cross-, and asexually propagated crops, hybridization techniques, heterosis breeding, mutation and polyploidy breeding, breeding for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and modern concepts of variety development, release, and protection.</p> <p style="text-align:justify">The text integrates classical breeding concepts with contemporary developments in crop improvement and presents the subject through illustrations, flowcharts, tables, and practical examples to facilitate conceptual understanding and experiential learning. Special emphasis has been given to the application of breeding principles in enhancing crop productivity, resilience, nutritional quality, and sustainability in the context of changing agricultural challenges.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>Salient Features</strong></p> <p style="text-align:justify">&bull; Fully aligned with the latest <strong>ICAR Sixth Deans&#39; Committee syllabus and course outcomes</strong>.<br /> &bull; Outcome-based and competency-driven presentation as envisaged under <strong>NEP-2020</strong>.<br /> &bull; Covers both fundamental principles and applied aspects of crop improvement.<br /> &bull; Incorporates illustrations, comparative tables, flowcharts, and practical examples for effective learning.<br /> &bull; Includes important numerical problems, key definitions, and chapter-end review questions.<br /> &bull; Emphasizes skill development in hybridization techniques, selection methods, and breeding strategies for different crop groups.<br /> &bull; Highlights contemporary topics such as stress breeding, participatory plant breeding, DUS testing, PPV&amp;FRA, and Intellectual Property Rights.<br /> &bull; Serves as a valuable resource for classroom teaching, practical training, experiential learning, and examination preparation.</p> <p style="text-align:justify">This textbook is primarily intended for <strong>undergraduate students of Agriculture and Horticulture</strong> and will also serve as a useful reference for postgraduate students, teachers, researchers, and professionals engaged in crop improvement and plant breeding programmes.</p>