GENERAL AND SPECIFIC SELECTION INDEXES FOR SINGLE STOOL STAGES OF SELECTION IN SUGARCANE

General (GSI) and specific (SSI) selection indices were constructed fo r three open-mating populations of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) seedling s and their ratoon stages. Though specific indices were found to be th e most effective in improving mean brix yield in their own source popu lations, but the GSI was better to SSI in other populations as indicat ed by higher mean values and more number of superior clones at selecti on and evaluation stages. This indicated the wider applicability of th e GSI over SSI. Inspite of better expected genetic advance through GSI in ratoon crop, the actual gain in brix yield attained, through GSI, was better in seedlings.