
Early generation selection in segregating peanut populations used markers linked to high oleic acid, rust and late leaf spot (LLS) resistance coupled with near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) for high oleic trait for selection decisions. Techniques such as rapid generation advancement, recycling of elite lines as parents, and early generation and multi-location testing in target sites resulted in an enhanced genetic gain for the high oleic trait. The significant outcomes are combining early maturity with foliar fungal disease resistance, and agronomically superior high oleic lines. For the 100-seed mass, a genetic gain of 17 g was achieved, from 35 g in 2015 to 52 g in 2017, through recycling of elite lines along with directional selection for seed size in the high oleic breeding pipeline. Superior performing high oleic as well as early maturing rust and LLS resistant lines are under national testing for release in India.