Nifty and Sensex indices extended their higher momentum on Friday, supported by robust buying in information technology, realty, pharmaceutical and healthcare shares.
Despite a mixed trend in the broader market, frontline indices maintained positive territory throughout the trading session.
The Nifty gained 95.15 points, or 0.39 per cent, to settle at 24,270.85. The Sensex advanced 262.79 points, or 0.34 per cent, to close at 77,763.91.
Market analysts stated that the 24,400 level remains the immediate hurdle for the Nifty.
They said a decisive breakout above this mark could strengthen bullish momentum and push the index towards the 24,500-24,600 range.
Analysts identified 24,200 as the immediate support level, followed by the crucial psychological mark of 24,000, which continues to provide a strong safety cushion for the market.
Among the top gainers on the Nifty were HCLTech, Max Healthcare Institute, and Apollo Hospitals Enterprise, as technology and healthcare counters led the rally.
The broader market delivered a mixed performance. The Nifty MidCap index declined 0.19 per cent, while the Nifty SmallCap index edged up 0.04 per cent.
Sector-wise, the Nifty Realty index emerged as the best-performing gauge.
The Nifty IT, Pharma, and Healthcare indices also traded firmly in positive territory.
However, the Nifty PSU Bank index recorded the sharpest decline among sectoral indices, limiting broader market gains.
Market experts said supportive global cues, softer US labour market data and expectations of a more accommodative global interest rate environment encouraged investor sentiment despite intermittent volatility and profit-booking.
They added that investor attention will now shift to the Q1 FY27 earnings season and corporate management commentary, particularly amid concerns over the widening monsoon deficit.