With the objective to promote in vitro callus induction, leaf segments of Achyranthes aspera were inoculated on basal MS medium supplemented with 3.0% sucrose and 0.8% agar with different concentrations of 2,4-D alone and in combination with NAA, BAP, IAA, IBA and Zeatin. The explants were maintained in growth room at 25 +/- 1 degrees C and 16 h light cycle. The best callus induction was obtained with 2,4-D (1.0 and 2.0 mg L(-l)) in combination with NAA (0.5 mg L(-1)). Callus induction and good texture from leaf explant was also observed at 2,4-D with BAP. On these combinations morphologically, light green, soft, compact and non-embryogenic callus (Type III callus) was observed. While morphology of callus and callogenic response was poor at 2,4-D alone or in combination with other hormones at different concentrations.