Abstract
Augmentation of yield by basal branching or otherwise is a widely debated topic by Brassica researchers. To discern the utility of this criterion as a selection index in the architecture of mustard (B. juncea) ideotype, investigations and stepwise regression analysis indicated its positive association and positive direct effect on seed yield per plant, while the primary branches arising on the upper half of the plant had the opposite effect. The positive indirect effect of primary branches on the lower half i.e., basal branching, through various yield components on seed yield per plant and the advantage it offered by withstanding hailstorms and gales commonly prevalent during the harvest season, makes it an ideal selection criterion.
