The Sensex sustained above its crucial 5,270 resistance level and finally closed 33 points higher at 5,298. The Nifty gained 6 points to close at 1,656.
HLL pared some gains and ended a per cent higher at Rs 116. ITC closed a tad higher at Rs 1,043. Reliance has opened higher at Rs 488, however, sustained selling pressure at the counter saw the scrip shed gains and close Rs 2 lower at Rs 483.
Infosys gained Rs 8 at Rs 1,624, and Satyam moved a rupee higher to Rs 364. Wipro, however, ended in negative zone at Rs 590 - down Rs 2.
Cipla was the major gainer among the Sensex stocks. The stock ended 6.6% (Rs 15) higher at Rs 249, and the counter clocked a combined (BSE+NSE) volume of around 15.53 lakh shares.
HDFC advanced 3.6% (Rs 21) to Rs 590, and the around 6.37 lakh shares changed hands on the BSE & NSE at the counter.
HDFC Bank rallied 4.6% (Rs 17) to Rs 399. The counter clocked a combined volume of around 19.80 lakh shares.