Evaluation of the Salinity Tolerance of some Rice (Oryza Sativa) Genotypes of Kashmir Valley.

The salinity tolerance of four rice genotypes, at germination and early seedling stages was evaluated using six salinity levels of Nacl and Kcl. Data regarding final germination percentage, germination energy percentage, plumule and radical length and seedling dry weight were recorded. Salinity decreased the various parameters studied in different varieties and the degree of inhibition increased with increasing salinity level. At 20 dS m-1 salinity level, germination was completely inhibited for all four genotypes. Using seedling dry matter reduction as the criteria, the genotypes were categorized as tolerant (T), moderately tolerant (MT), moderately susceptible (MS) or susceptible (S). Jhelum showed greater dry matter accumulation and better salt tolerance during germination and early seedling growth compared to other three genotypes. The results suggest that Jhelum can be recommended to be cultivated on the slightly saline soils.