Oct 26: Indian stock markets ended higher on Monday after a volatile session, supported by strong buying in metal, pharmaceutical and healthcare stocks. The recovery also extended to mid-cap and small-cap shares, helping benchmark indices close firmly in positive territory.
The Sensex gained 482 points, or 0.66%, to settle at 73,606.75, while the Nifty 50 advanced 0.68% to close at 22,753.20.
Metal stocks led the rally, with the Nifty Metal index rising 2.2%. The Nifty Pharma index climbed 1.67%, while healthcare stocks also recorded healthy gains. Improved buying interest helped the broader market recover from its intraday lows, with the Nifty Midcap 100 rising 1.19% and the Nifty Smallcap 100 gaining 1.38%.
Among individual stocks, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, JSW Steel, BSE and Adani Ports were among the leading gainers on the Nifty. In contrast, Bajaj Finance, Shriram Finance, Tata Consumer Products and HDFC Life Insurance faced selling pressure.
Market sentiment improved as the Nifty moved above key technical averages, although volatility continued to influence trading. The 22,600 level remains an important near-term support, while the 22,800–22,900 range could emerge as the next resistance zone. A sustained move above 22,800 would strengthen the positive outlook.
Despite the gains, weakness in media and consumer durables stocks highlighted the uneven nature of the recovery. Investors are likely to watch broader market participation and movements in major stocks for signs of sustained momentum.
The session ended on a positive note, with metal and healthcare shares providing the main support. Whether the recovery continues will depend on the strength of follow-up buying and the market’s ability to hold above key technical levels.