A simple and efficient system of soybean regeneration protocol was standardized through direct somatic embryogenesis by using immature cotyledons as explant. Three genotypes, namely, DS 2706, Pusa 5 and PS 1477 were selected for the evaluation of their capacity for in vitro somatic embryogenesis and plantlet regeneration. The medium MSB5 (MS macro ? micro ? B5 organics) supplemented with different concentrations of plant growth regulators (2, 4-D, NAA, BAP and ABA) were evaluated for somatic embryo initiation and subsequent development. Somatic embryos were initiated in the shortest duration (25.1 days) with the highest response (86.5 %) on MSB5 medium supplemented with 40 mg l -1 2, 4-D compared to lower concentrations or combination treatments with NAA and BAP. Somatic embryos proliferation was highest (76.25 %) in the MSB5 medium supplemented with 20 mg l -1 2, 4-D and 13 mg l -1 ABA. Somatic embryos and their morphological development were noted on medium supplemented with 6 % maltose and 0.5 % activated charcoal (79.47 %) compared to sucrose. Maltose at 6 % gave good maturation of somatic embryos (92.67 %). The highest germination (53.03 %) of somatic embryos into plantlets was achieved in the medium containing 1.5 % sucrose. Amongst the genotypes screened, DS 2706 was the most responsive. The protocol developed can be used for direct regeneration via somatic embryogenesis in different genotypes, which could also be used for attempting genetic transformation.