The present studies focused on the growth performance of Indian major carps in abandoned china clay mines of Birbhum district, West Bengal. The results obtained during the experimental trial from eleven months in terms of changes in soil, water and biological characteristics of the ‘Khadan’ or china clay pits, growth of cultured fish species (Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala) and production potential. The growth rate of Catla catla is comparatively higher than Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala. Highest growth was observed in Catla catla (810.36 13.52g) followed by Labeo rohita (620.35 12.51g) and Cirrhinus mrigala (584.3 4.99 g) as compared to growth of experimental fishes in control pond Catla catla (914.4g), Labeo rohita (723.9±7.9g) and Cirrhinus mrigala (673.7±5.8g). After successful introduction of Indian major carps in the pits of china clay mines or ‘Khadans’, the production potential up to a level of 3,321.8 kg ha-1 year-1 as compare to the production of control pond 5, 1274 kg ha-1 year-1.
