Twenty six genotypes of diverse geographical origin were studied for seven quantitative characters to understand the nature of heritability and genetic advance. Mean sum of squares for genotypes was significant for all the characters. 1000 grain weight, days to 50 per cent flowering, panicle length and plant height showed high heritability and the other characters showed medium heritability. The genetic advance was maximum in tillers per plant and least in days to 50 per cent flowering. Hence, the latter character appeared to be under the influence of environment and rest appeared to be less affected by the environment. It was concluded that selection based on 1000 grain weight, tillers per plant, panicle weight and panicle length would be more effective for improvement of the crop.