Market benchmark Sensex surrendered early gains to end 208 points lower on Wednesday as energy, power, auto and financial stocks came under selling pressure.

After plunging 473 points from the day's high in a choppy session, the 30-share BSE index settled 208.43 points, or 0.50 per cent, lower at 41,115.38. It hit an intra-day high of 41,532.29 and a low of 41,059.04.

Likewise, the broader NSE Nifty closed 62.95 points, or 0.52 per cent, down at 12,106.90.

ONGC was the top loser in the Sensex pack, tumbling 5.13 per cent, followed by NTPC, Maruti, Kotak Bank, HDFC, Asian Paints, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank.

On the other hand, Nestle India, TCS, Infosys, HCL Tech, SBI and Bharti Airtel ended with gains of up to 1.86 per cent.

According to experts, major stocks are in the process of correcting to their support levels ahead of the Union Budget.

Further, global agencies slashing India's growth outlook and a tepid start to the earnings season are also weighing on domestic investor sentiment, they added.

Elsewhere in Asia, bourses in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul ended with gains.

European markets were also trading on a positive note in their early sessions.

Brent crude oil futures fell 0.67 per cent to USD 64.16 per barrel.

The rupee was trading flat at 71.22 per US dollar (intra-day).

Market benchmark Sensex surrendered early gains to end 208 points lower on Wednesday as energy, power, auto and financial stocks came under selling pressure. After plunging 473 points from the day's high in a choppy session, the 30-share BSE index settled 208.

Market benchmark Sensex surrendered early gains to end 208 points lower on Wednesday as energy, power, auto and financial stocks came under selling pressure. After plunging 473 points from the day's high in a choppy session, the 30-share BSE index settled 208.43 points, or 0.50 per cent, lower at 41,115.38. It hit an intra-day high of 41,532.29 and a low of 41,059.04. Likewise, the broader NSE Nifty closed 62.95 points, or 0.52 per cent, down at 12,106.90. ONGC was the top loser in the Sensex pack, tumbling 5.13 per cent, followed by NTPC, Maruti, Kotak Bank, HDFC, Asian Paints, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank. On the other hand, Nestle India, TCS, Infosys, HCL Tech, SBI and Bharti Airtel ended with gains of up to 1.86 per cent. According to experts, major stocks are in the process of correcting to their support levels ahead of the Union Budget. Further, global agencies slashing India's growth outlook and a tepid start to the earnings season are also weighing on domestic investor sentiment, they added. Elsewhere in Asia, bourses in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul ended with gains. European markets were also trading on a positive note in their early sessions. Brent crude oil futures fell 0.67 per cent to USD 64.16 per barrel. The rupee was trading flat at 71.22 per US dollar (intra-day).

Sensex sheds 208 points; ONGC tanks 5%

The government has plans to raise as much as 3.25 trillion rupees in the next five years by reducing its stakes in some large state-owned firms to 40%, two senior government officials told Reuters, in the nation's biggest privatisation push in more than two decades.

Last week, finance minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-nirmala-sitharaman-to-launch-study-in-india-initiative-to-encourage-foreign-students-233240&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjngeeHjK_jAhULbo8KHQhRD_0QFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw05Zl3o-mH6_vHpdxNAwju9">Nirmala Sitharaman</a> in her budget announced that the government will look to reduce direct controlling stakes in some state-run firms on a case-by-case basis.

The plan will open up a steady stream of state companies to greater private investment, and target the kind of annual divestment revenue that will be crucial to meet fiscal deficit targets.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration already sold government stakes in a host of companies to raise a record $40.92 billion in his first five-year term, nearly three times the divestment proceeds of $14.52 billion achieved by the Congress party government in 2009-2014. Modi was re-elected for a second term in a landslide victory in April-May.

The government has identified a number of state-owned firms, including explorer Oil and Natural Gas Corp, oil refiner Indian Oil Corp, gas transmitter GAIL (India) Ltd, power producers NHPC Ltd and NTPC, miners NMDC Ltd and Coal India, and Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd, said the sources, who declined to be named due to the sensitive nature of the matter.

"We have done a calculation on current prices and we could get 3.25 trillion rupees if we bring our stake down to 40% in government companies, excluding banks," one of the officials, said.

The government has plans to raise as much as 3.25 trillion rupees in the next five years by reducing its stakes in some large state-owned firms to 40%, two senior government officials told Reuters, in the nation's biggest privatisation push in more than two decades.

The government has plans to raise as much as 3.25 trillion rupees in the next five years by reducing its stakes in some large state-owned firms to 40%, two senior government officials told Reuters, in the nation's biggest privatisation push in more than two decades. Last week, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her budget announced that the government will look to reduce direct controlling stakes in some state-run firms on a case-by-case basis. The plan will open up a steady stream of state companies to greater private investment, and target the kind of annual divestment revenue that will be crucial to meet fiscal deficit targets. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration already sold government stakes in a host of companies to raise a record $40.92 billion in his first five-year term, nearly three times the divestment proceeds of $14.52 billion achieved by the Congress party government in 2009-2014. Modi was re-elected for a second term in a landslide victory in April-May. The government has identified a number of state-owned firms, including explorer Oil and Natural Gas Corp, oil refiner Indian Oil Corp, gas transmitter GAIL (India) Ltd, power producers NHPC Ltd and NTPC, miners NMDC Ltd and Coal India, and Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd, said the sources, who declined to be named due to the sensitive nature of the matter. "We have done a calculation on current prices and we could get 3.25 trillion rupees if we bring our stake down to 40% in government companies, excluding banks," one of the officials, said.

Government seeks to raise $47 billion from stake sales in state firms over five years: Sources

The BSE benchmark Sensex ended 66 points higher Wednesday after a highly volatile session ahead of the US Federal Reserve meet outcome.

After rallying nearly 400 points during the day, the BSE gauge settled 66.40 points or 0.17 per cent, higher at 39,112.74. The index hit an intra-day high of 39,435.80 and a low of 38,881.05.

The broader NSE Nifty closed almost flat at 11,691.45. During the day, the index touched a high of 11,802.50 and a low of 11,625.10.

Top gainers in the Sensex pack included Tata Steel, Kotak Bank, NTPC, HDFC twins, PowerGrid and ONGC, rising up to 4.60 per cent.

On the other hand, Yes Bank, Tata Motors, Hero MotoCorp, IndusInd Bank, M&amp;M, Bharti Airtel and Bajaj Auto fell up to 5.54 per cent.

The domestic market opened on a positive note following upbeat Asian bourses on hopes that the US Fed might cut rates in the near future, said Narendra Solanki, Head-Fundamental Research (Investment Services) - AVP Equity Research, Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers.

Further, reports of US-China trade talks next week also gave a shot in the arm to global markets, he added.

However, the markets trimmed most of their gains and came off the day's highs led by selling in PSU banks, auto and pharma and IT sectors.

"The markets also failed to draw any sense of relief with the Reserve Bank of India's statement that it will infuse Rs 12,500 crore of liquidity into the system through purchase of government bonds to ease prevailing liquidity conditions," Solanki said.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hang Seng rallied 2.56 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index jumped 0.96 per cent, Nikkei soared 1.72 per cent and Kospi gained 1.24 per cent.

Stock exchanges in Europe were trading on a mixed note in early deals.

On the currency front, the Indian rupee was flat at 69.70 against the US dollar intra-day.

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.55 per cent to $61.80 per barrel.

The BSE benchmark Sensex ended 66 points higher Wednesday after a highly volatile session ahead of the US Federal Reserve meet outcome. After rallying nearly 400 points during the day, the BSE gauge settled 66.

The BSE benchmark Sensex ended 66 points higher Wednesday after a highly volatile session ahead of the US Federal Reserve meet outcome. After rallying nearly 400 points during the day, the BSE gauge settled 66.40 points or 0.17 per cent, higher at 39,112.74. The index hit an intra-day high of 39,435.80 and a low of 38,881.05. The broader NSE Nifty closed almost flat at 11,691.45. During the day, the index touched a high of 11,802.50 and a low of 11,625.10. Top gainers in the Sensex pack included Tata Steel, Kotak Bank, NTPC, HDFC twins, PowerGrid and ONGC, rising up to 4.60 per cent. On the other hand, Yes Bank, Tata Motors, Hero MotoCorp, IndusInd Bank, M&M, Bharti Airtel and Bajaj Auto fell up to 5.54 per cent. The domestic market opened on a positive note following upbeat Asian bourses on hopes that the US Fed might cut rates in the near future, said Narendra Solanki, Head-Fundamental Research (Investment Services) - AVP Equity Research, Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers. Further, reports of US-China trade talks next week also gave a shot in the arm to global markets, he added. However, the markets trimmed most of their gains and came off the day's highs led by selling in PSU banks, auto and pharma and IT sectors. "The markets also failed to draw any sense of relief with the Reserve Bank of India's statement that it will infuse Rs 12,500 crore of liquidity into the system through purchase of government bonds to ease prevailing liquidity conditions," Solanki said. Elsewhere in Asia, Hang Seng rallied 2.56 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index jumped 0.96 per cent, Nikkei soared 1.72 per cent and Kospi gained 1.24 per cent. Stock exchanges in Europe were trading on a mixed note in early deals. On the currency front, the Indian rupee was flat at 69.70 against the US dollar intra-day. Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.55 per cent to $61.80 per barrel.

Sensex ends 66 points higher; auto, bank stocks tank

After a day's breather, benchmark Sensex Thursday resumed its record-setting spree by rallying 330 points on gains in index heavyweights RIL, HDFC and TCS amid expiry of May derivative contracts.

Moreover, sentiment was driven by renewed hopes from the new government as investors have been keenly awaiting the allocation of key portfolios to ministers. Narendra Modi and his council of ministers are all set to take oath at 1900 hours Wednesday.

After soaring over 400 points, the 30-share index ended 329.92 points, or 0.84 per cent, higher at 39,831.97 -- its fresh-closing high. The gauge hit an intra-day high of 39,911.92 and a low of 39,500.56.

The broader NSE Nifty also settled at a new closing peak at 11,945.90, gaining 84.80 points or 0.71 per cent.

NTPC was the top gainer in the Sensex pack, rallying 3.44 per cent. Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finance, TCS, HDFC twins, Yes Bank and RIL too gained up to 2.33 per cent.

While, Sun Pharma, M&amp;M, ONGC, IndusInd Bank and Vedanta fell up to 2.39 per cent.

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold equities worth Rs 304.27 crore on Wednesday and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded shares to the tune of Rs 189.58 crore, provisional data available with stock&nbsp; 
exchanges showed.

Asian bourses ended on a mixed note, while Europe was trading in the green in opening deals.

Meanwhile, the Indian rupee was trading 5 paise lower at 69.88 against the US dollar.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, slipped 0.06 per cent to 67.83 per barrel.&nbsp;

After a day's breather, benchmark Sensex Thursday resumed its record-setting spree by rallying 330 points on gains in index heavyweights RIL, HDFC and TCS amid expiry of May derivative contracts.

After a day's breather, benchmark Sensex Thursday resumed its record-setting spree by rallying 330 points on gains in index heavyweights RIL, HDFC and TCS amid expiry of May derivative contracts. Moreover, sentiment was driven by renewed hopes from the new government as investors have been keenly awaiting the allocation of key portfolios to ministers. Narendra Modi and his council of ministers are all set to take oath at 1900 hours Wednesday. After soaring over 400 points, the 30-share index ended 329.92 points, or 0.84 per cent, higher at 39,831.97 -- its fresh-closing high. The gauge hit an intra-day high of 39,911.92 and a low of 39,500.56. The broader NSE Nifty also settled at a new closing peak at 11,945.90, gaining 84.80 points or 0.71 per cent. NTPC was the top gainer in the Sensex pack, rallying 3.44 per cent. Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finance, TCS, HDFC twins, Yes Bank and RIL too gained up to 2.33 per cent. While, Sun Pharma, M&M, ONGC, IndusInd Bank and Vedanta fell up to 2.39 per cent. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold equities worth Rs 304.27 crore on Wednesday and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded shares to the tune of Rs 189.58 crore, provisional data available with stock exchanges showed. Asian bourses ended on a mixed note, while Europe was trading in the green in opening deals. Meanwhile, the Indian rupee was trading 5 paise lower at 69.88 against the US dollar. Brent crude, the global benchmark, slipped 0.06 per cent to 67.83 per barrel.

Sensex continues its record-setting spree, closes 330 points up

The BSE Sensex ended over 150 points lower Monday on heavy selloff by foreign investors after industrial output growth data dropped to a 17-month low.

After a volatile session, the 30-share index settled 156.28 points, or 0.43 per cent, down at 35,853.56, while the broader NSE Nifty fell 57.35 points, or 0.53 per cent, to finish at 10,737.60.

The fall was led by L&amp;T, IndusInd Bank, PowerGrid, NTPC, TCS, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Hero MotoCorp, Bharti Airtel and SBI, declining up to 2.64 per cent.

On the other hand, Yes Bank was the biggest gainer on Sensex, rallying up to 6.22 per cent, on reports that the lender had shortlisted its executive Rajat Monga and a CEO of a foreign bank to succeed long-serving Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Rana Kapoor.

Infosys was also among the top gainers, rising 2.58 per cent, after the company, Friday said it will buy back shares worth up to Rs 8,260 crore and offer shareholders a special dividend of Rs 4 per share as part of the company's Rs 13,000 crore-capital allocation policy.

Other gainers include Sun Pharma, Bajaj Finance, Maruti and Tata Motors, rising up to 1.68 per cent.

According to experts, overall investor sentiment was weak after the government on Friday released the industrial output growth numbers, which dropped to a 17-month low of 0.5 per cent in November on account of contraction in the manufacturing sector, particularly consumer and capital goods.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 687.20 crore Friday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 123.17 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

On the macro front, the rupee depreciated 32 paise to 70.81 against the US dollar.

Brent crude futures were trading 1.49 per cent lower at $59.58 per barrel.

Elsewhere in Asia, Korea's Kospi fell 0.53 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.71 per cent, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng dropped 1.38 per cent. While Japan's Nikkei jumped 0.97 per cent.

In Europe, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.55 per cent, Paris CAC 40 fell 0.77 per cent, and London's FTSE shed 0.73 per cent.&nbsp;

After a volatile session, the 30-share index settled 156.28 points, or 0.43 per cent, down at 35,853.56.

The BSE Sensex ended over 150 points lower Monday on heavy selloff by foreign investors after industrial output growth data dropped to a 17-month low. After a volatile session, the 30-share index settled 156.28 points, or 0.43 per cent, down at 35,853.56, while the broader NSE Nifty fell 57.35 points, or 0.53 per cent, to finish at 10,737.60. The fall was led by L&T, IndusInd Bank, PowerGrid, NTPC, TCS, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Hero MotoCorp, Bharti Airtel and SBI, declining up to 2.64 per cent. On the other hand, Yes Bank was the biggest gainer on Sensex, rallying up to 6.22 per cent, on reports that the lender had shortlisted its executive Rajat Monga and a CEO of a foreign bank to succeed long-serving Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Rana Kapoor. Infosys was also among the top gainers, rising 2.58 per cent, after the company, Friday said it will buy back shares worth up to Rs 8,260 crore and offer shareholders a special dividend of Rs 4 per share as part of the company's Rs 13,000 crore-capital allocation policy. Other gainers include Sun Pharma, Bajaj Finance, Maruti and Tata Motors, rising up to 1.68 per cent. According to experts, overall investor sentiment was weak after the government on Friday released the industrial output growth numbers, which dropped to a 17-month low of 0.5 per cent in November on account of contraction in the manufacturing sector, particularly consumer and capital goods. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 687.20 crore Friday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 123.17 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. On the macro front, the rupee depreciated 32 paise to 70.81 against the US dollar. Brent crude futures were trading 1.49 per cent lower at $59.58 per barrel. Elsewhere in Asia, Korea's Kospi fell 0.53 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.71 per cent, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng dropped 1.38 per cent. While Japan's Nikkei jumped 0.97 per cent. In Europe, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.55 per cent, Paris CAC 40 fell 0.77 per cent, and London's FTSE shed 0.73 per cent.

Sensex drops over 150 points on weak macro cues

Market benchmark BSE Sensex extended losses for the third straight day by shedding over 66 points in early trade today on selling by domestic institutional investors and foreign funds amid mixed Asian cues.

Also, selling pressure in oil &amp; gas, FMCG, metal, PSU, bank and power stocks amid a depreciating rupee to weighed on market sentiment.

The BSE 30-share index slipped 66.48 points, or 0.19 per cent, to 33,769.26. The benchmark had lost 82.20 points in the previous two sessions.

Major laggards were Hindustan Unilever, NTPC, ONGC, ICICI Bank, Reliance Industries and Tata Steel, falling by up to 0.75 per cent.

NSE Nifty was trading down by 21.05 points, or 0.20 per cent, at 10,389.85.

Gitanjali Gems stock continued its downturn, cracking 4.78 per cent to Rs 12.95.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 432.03 crore, and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) also sold shares of Rs 258.98 crore yesterday.

Asian markets were trading lower following a decline on Wall Street overnight. Japan&#39;s Nikkei shed 0.47 per cent, while Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng edged up 0.03 per cent. Shanghai Composite Index was down 0.04 per cent in early trade.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average also ended 1 per cent lower yesterday

Market benchmark BSE Sensex extended losses for the third straight day by shedding over 66 points in early trade today on selling by domestic institutional investors and foreign funds amid mixed Asian cues

Market benchmark BSE Sensex extended losses for the third straight day by shedding over 66 points in early trade today on selling by domestic institutional investors and foreign funds amid mixed Asian cues. Also, selling pressure in oil & gas, FMCG, metal, PSU, bank and power stocks amid a depreciating rupee to weighed on market sentiment. The BSE 30-share index slipped 66.48 points, or 0.19 per cent, to 33,769.26. The benchmark had lost 82.20 points in the previous two sessions. Major laggards were Hindustan Unilever, NTPC, ONGC, ICICI Bank, Reliance Industries and Tata Steel, falling by up to 0.75 per cent. NSE Nifty was trading down by 21.05 points, or 0.20 per cent, at 10,389.85. Gitanjali Gems stock continued its downturn, cracking 4.78 per cent to Rs 12.95. Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 432.03 crore, and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) also sold shares of Rs 258.98 crore yesterday. Asian markets were trading lower following a decline on Wall Street overnight. Japan's Nikkei shed 0.47 per cent, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng edged up 0.03 per cent. Shanghai Composite Index was down 0.04 per cent in early trade. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average also ended 1 per cent lower yesterday

Sensex extends losses, down 66 pts; Nifty below 10,400

After Maharashtra, BJP veteran Yashwant Sinha has now landed in another party-led state, Madhya Pradesh, to take up the cause of farmers.

The former Union minister is scheduled to take part in a farmers&#39; protest tomorrow against an upcoming power project at Gadarwara area of Narsinghpur district.

He will participate in the protest along with Rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Sangh president Shivkumar Sharma, popularly known as Kakkaji, who is a former RSS ideologue.

&quot;Just now, I received him (Sinha) in Jabalpur,&quot; Sharma told PTI by phone.

&quot;After night stay at Jabalpur, we are going to leave for Narsinghpur tomorrow morning,&quot; he added.

&quot;Sinhaji is going to address the farmers squatting at Gadarwara since December 22,&quot; Kakkaji said.

Former Union minister Sompal Shastri, too, will take part in the protest, he said.

Narsinghpur SP Monica Shukla told PTI, &quot;Adequate police arrangement has been made at the protest site where Sinha and Shastri are going to address the protesters. We are keeping a watch.&quot;

Kakkaji said farmers, whose lands had been acquired for the NTPC&#39;s coal-fired project at Gadarwara, are demanding jobs in the central PSU.

NTPC has promised them jobs while acquiring their agriculture lands, he added.

In early December, Sinha led a farmers march in Akola district of Maharashtra and later staged a sit-in to protest the BJP-led government&#39;s &quot;apathy&quot; towards the cultivators of the Vidarbha region.

The 80-year-old bureaucrat-turned-politician has also been critical of the economic policies of the Modi government. PTI&nbsp;

After Maharashtra, BJP veteran Yashwant Sinha has now landed in another party-led state, Madhya Pradesh, to take up the cause of farmers. The former Union minister is scheduled to take part in a farmers' protest tomorrow against an upcoming power project at Gadarwara area of Narsinghpur district. He will participate in the protest along with Rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Sangh president Shivkumar Sharma, popularly known as Kakkaji, who is a former RSS ideologue. "Just now, I received him (Sinha) in Jabalpur," Sharma told PTI by phone. "After night stay at Jabalpur, we are going to leave for Narsinghpur tomorrow morning," he added. "Sinhaji is going to address the farmers squatting at Gadarwara since December 22," Kakkaji said. Former Union minister Sompal Shastri, too, will take part in the protest, he said. Narsinghpur SP Monica Shukla told PTI, "Adequate police arrangement has been made at the protest site where Sinha and Shastri are going to address the protesters. We are keeping a watch." Kakkaji said farmers, whose lands had been acquired for the NTPC's coal-fired project at Gadarwara, are demanding jobs in the central PSU. NTPC has promised them jobs while acquiring their agriculture lands, he added. In early December, Sinha led a farmers march in Akola district of Maharashtra and later staged a sit-in to protest the BJP-led government's "apathy" towards the cultivators of the Vidarbha region. The 80-year-old bureaucrat-turned-politician has also been critical of the economic policies of the Modi government. PTI

Yashwant Sinha to now take part in farmers' protest in Madhya Pradesh

Stocks were off to a positive start in the final trading session of 2017, with the benchmark Sensex gaining 110 points and the NSE Nifty crossing the 10,500-point mark on widespread gains led by banking, FMCG and capital goods shares.

Besides, beginning of January series in the futures and options (F&amp;O) segment accelerated buying by participants, which supported the upside.

The 30-share index rose 110.26 points, or 0.32 per cent, to 33,958.29. All the sectoral indices led by power, capital goods, infrastructure and healthcare were up, rising by up to 1.01 per cent.

The barometer had lost 162.58 points in the previous two sessions.

The broad-based NSE Nifty too was up 30.30 points, or 0.28 per cent, at 10,508.20.

Power Grid, Tata Steel, L&amp;T, Adani Ports, Axis Bank, SBI, NTPC, Asian Paint, HDFC Ltd, Hero MotoCorp, ITC Ltd, Sun Pharma, Maruti Suzuki, TCS and Reliance Industries were major gainers, which supported the indices.

Shares of Reliance Communications continued their upward march for yet another session, soaring 19.51 per cent to Rs 37 after reports that Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio will acquire mobile business assets including spectrum, mobile towers and optical fibre network of Reliance Communications.

Globally, Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng rose 0.42 per cent while Japan&#39;s Nikkei up 0.25 per cent in early trade. Shanghai-traded too gained 0.16 per cent.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 0.26 per cent higher yesterday.

Power Grid, Tata Steel, L&T, Adani Ports, Axis Bank, SBI, NTPC, Asian Paint, HDFC Ltd, Hero MotoCorp, ITC Ltd, Sun Pharma, Maruti Suzuki, TCS and Reliance Industries were major gainers, which supported the indices

Stocks were off to a positive start in the final trading session of 2017, with the benchmark Sensex gaining 110 points and the NSE Nifty crossing the 10,500-point mark on widespread gains led by banking, FMCG and capital goods shares. Besides, beginning of January series in the futures and options (F&O) segment accelerated buying by participants, which supported the upside. The 30-share index rose 110.26 points, or 0.32 per cent, to 33,958.29. All the sectoral indices led by power, capital goods, infrastructure and healthcare were up, rising by up to 1.01 per cent. The barometer had lost 162.58 points in the previous two sessions. The broad-based NSE Nifty too was up 30.30 points, or 0.28 per cent, at 10,508.20. Power Grid, Tata Steel, L&T, Adani Ports, Axis Bank, SBI, NTPC, Asian Paint, HDFC Ltd, Hero MotoCorp, ITC Ltd, Sun Pharma, Maruti Suzuki, TCS and Reliance Industries were major gainers, which supported the indices. Shares of Reliance Communications continued their upward march for yet another session, soaring 19.51 per cent to Rs 37 after reports that Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio will acquire mobile business assets including spectrum, mobile towers and optical fibre network of Reliance Communications. Globally, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.42 per cent while Japan's Nikkei up 0.25 per cent in early trade. Shanghai-traded too gained 0.16 per cent. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 0.26 per cent higher yesterday.

Sensex moves up 110 points as January F&O series takes off

The National Green Tribunal has called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on 28 November.

The NGT has also asked the&nbsp;NTPC to join the meeting.

The meeting is scheduled for 11 am.

The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble.

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NGT directs NTPC, Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to convene a meeting at 11 am on 28 November to decide on transportation, subsequent use of stubble and compensating farmers adequately. Next date of hearing is 6 December.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933236964009984000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The meeting will try to formulate a workable solution for stubble burning.&nbsp;

The Thermal Power plant has expressed its willingness to use agricultural residue in power plants. However, they can use it as five per cent of the fuel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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NGT asks all the concerned states to provide workable solution for stubble burning. NTPC says they are willing to use agricultural residue in power plants, however it may not be possible to use it directly as they can only use it as 5 percent of the fuel.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933236613148172289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The NGT&#39;s decision is in response to the rising level of air pollutant&nbsp;in Delhi and adjoining states.

The pollution level rises after the farmers resort to stubble burning to clear off the agricultural fields for next season.

The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble

The National Green Tribunal has called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on 28 November. The NGT has also asked the NTPC to join the meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 11 am. The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble. NGT directs NTPC, Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to convene a meeting at 11 am on 28 November to decide on transportation, subsequent use of stubble and compensating farmers adequately. Next date of hearing is 6 December. — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2017 × The meeting will try to formulate a workable solution for stubble burning. The Thermal Power plant has expressed its willingness to use agricultural residue in power plants. However, they can use it as five per cent of the fuel. NGT asks all the concerned states to provide workable solution for stubble burning. NTPC says they are willing to use agricultural residue in power plants, however it may not be possible to use it directly as they can only use it as 5 percent of the fuel. — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2017 × The NGT's decision is in response to the rising level of air pollutant in Delhi and adjoining states. The pollution level rises after the farmers resort to stubble burning to clear off the agricultural fields for next season.

NGT called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture, states and NTPC on Nov 28

Fifteen men, who suffered serious burn injuries in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-ntpc-plant-explosion-captured-on-mobile-camera-23450" target="_blank">NTPC plant explosion in Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Rae Bareli</a>, have been shifted to AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital here.

While six of them were admitted to AIIMS trauma centre, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ntpc-boiler-explosion-9-men-with-burn-injuries-shifted-to-safdarjung-23467" target="_blank">nine were taken to Safdarjung Hospital</a>.

Majority of the six admitted to AIIMS have suffered extreme facial burns.

&quot;They have been admitted in the burn department of the AIIMS trauma centre. One of them has 60 per cent burns, while others have burn injuries ranging between 25 and 50 per cent,&quot; a senior doctor at the premier All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) said yesterday.

The injured were brought to AIIMS around 8.30 pm yesterday, after being flown to Delhi in an Airbus. A green corridor was created from the IGI Airport to the AIIMS trauma centre considering the seriousness of the patients.

Among the nine patients at Safdarjung Hospital, two of the injured persons were brought to the central government-run facility around 8 pm on Thursday, while seven others were admitted in the burns ICU of the hospital early yesterday.

&quot;Five of the patients are very critical. While three of them have suffered around 80 per cent burns, two have got 60- 70 per cent burn injuries,&quot; Dr Rajendra Sharma, the medical superintendent of the Safdarjung Hospital, told PTI.

The other four patients have suffered burns ranging between 25 and 45 per cent, Sharma said.

&quot;We have the arrangements in place, in case more patients are to be brought, we can accommodate them,&quot; Sharma said.

&nbsp;Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel had visited the hospital on Thursday night to ensure that the blast burn patients get the best treatment and care.

The death toll in the massive explosion at the state-run power giant NTPC&#39;s Unchahar plant climbed to 32.

Eighty-five injured people are being treated at hospitals in Rae Bareli, Lucknow, and Delhi.

The NTPC has initiated a probe to ascertain the reasons behind the blast.

In a statement, the NTPC had said that at unit number 6 of its Unchahar plant, there was a sudden abnormal sound at 20-metre elevation on Wednesday afternoon.

The 1,550 MW plant supplies electricity to nine states, according to officials, and employs around 870 people.

?Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel had visited the hospital on Thursday night to ensure that the blast burn patients get the best treatment and care

Fifteen men, who suffered serious burn injuries in the NTPC plant explosion in Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli, have been shifted to AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital here. While six of them were admitted to AIIMS trauma centre, nine were taken to Safdarjung Hospital. Majority of the six admitted to AIIMS have suffered extreme facial burns. "They have been admitted in the burn department of the AIIMS trauma centre. One of them has 60 per cent burns, while others have burn injuries ranging between 25 and 50 per cent," a senior doctor at the premier All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) said yesterday. The injured were brought to AIIMS around 8.30 pm yesterday, after being flown to Delhi in an Airbus. A green corridor was created from the IGI Airport to the AIIMS trauma centre considering the seriousness of the patients. Among the nine patients at Safdarjung Hospital, two of the injured persons were brought to the central government-run facility around 8 pm on Thursday, while seven others were admitted in the burns ICU of the hospital early yesterday. "Five of the patients are very critical. While three of them have suffered around 80 per cent burns, two have got 60- 70 per cent burn injuries," Dr Rajendra Sharma, the medical superintendent of the Safdarjung Hospital, told PTI. The other four patients have suffered burns ranging between 25 and 45 per cent, Sharma said. "We have the arrangements in place, in case more patients are to be brought, we can accommodate them," Sharma said. Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel had visited the hospital on Thursday night to ensure that the blast burn patients get the best treatment and care. The death toll in the massive explosion at the state-run power giant NTPC's Unchahar plant climbed to 32. Eighty-five injured people are being treated at hospitals in Rae Bareli, Lucknow, and Delhi. The NTPC has initiated a probe to ascertain the reasons behind the blast. In a statement, the NTPC had said that at unit number 6 of its Unchahar plant, there was a sudden abnormal sound at 20-metre elevation on Wednesday afternoon. The 1,550 MW plant supplies electricity to nine states, according to officials, and employs around 870 people.

NTPC blast:15 men with burn injuries shifted to AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital

An ash-pipe exploded at NTPC pant in Raibareli, Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

The death toll in the explosion has risen to 31.

22 people with severe burn injuries have been referred to Lucknow for treatment.&nbsp;

UP ADG&nbsp;claimed that about 60-70 people sustained injuries in the incident. However, the District Magistrate had previously reported 100 injuries.

The explosion occurred&nbsp;because of pressure,&nbsp;DM Raebareli said.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath took cognizance of the incident.&nbsp;He&nbsp;directed principal secretary home to ensure all steps for rescue and relief were taken.&nbsp;

CM Yogi also has announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for next kin of the people who died in the incident.

The state government will also give Rs 50,000 for critically injured while Rs 25,000 for those who have suffered light injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

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UP CM Yogi has announced ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for next kin of the people who died in the incident

An ash-pipe exploded at NTPC pant in Raibareli, Uttar Pradesh. The death toll in the explosion has risen to 31. 22 people with severe burn injuries have been referred to Lucknow for treatment. UP ADG claimed that about 60-70 people sustained injuries in the incident. However, the District Magistrate had previously reported 100 injuries. The explosion occurred because of pressure, DM Raebareli said. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath took cognizance of the incident. He directed principal secretary home to ensure all steps for rescue and relief were taken. CM Yogi also has announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for next kin of the people who died in the incident. The state government will also give Rs 50,000 for critically injured while Rs 25,000 for those who have suffered light injured. (With inputs from ANI)

Video: Ash-pipe explodes at NTPC in UP; 31 dead

Nine men, who have suffered serious burn injuries in the NTPC plant explosion in Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Rae Bareli, have been shifted to the Safdarjung Hospital here.

While two of the injured persons were brought to the Centre-run facility at around 8 PM last night, seven others were admitted in the burns ICU of the hospital early this morning.

&quot;Five of the patients are very critical. While three of them have suffered around 80 per cent burns, two have got 60 -70 per cent burn injuries,&quot; Dr Rajendra Sharma, the medical superintendent of the Safdarjung Hospital, told PTI.

The other four patients have suffered burns ranging between 25-45 per cent, Sharma said.

&quot;We have the arrangements in place, in case more patients are to be brought, we can accommodate them,&quot; Sharma said.

Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel visited the hospital last night to oversee and ensure that the blast burn patients get the best treatment and care.

The death toll in the massive explosion at the state-run power giant NTPC&#39;s Unchahar plant climbed to over 30.

More 85 injured people are being treated at hospitals in Rae Bareli and Lucknow.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is abroad, had announced Rs 2 lakh compensation for the family of those killed and Rs 50,000 for the grievously injured, besides Rs 25,000 for other injured workers.

Union power minister R K Singh has also announced a compensation amount of Rs 20 lakh to the next of kin of those killed, observing that the earlier ex-gratia was not enough.

The NTPC has initiated a probe to ascertain the reasons behind the blast.

In a statement issued yesterday, the NTPC had said that at unit number 6 of its Unchahar plant, there was a sudden abnormal sound at 20-metre elevation on Wednesday afternoon.

The 1,550-MW plant supplies electricity to nine states, according to officials, and employs around 870 people.

While two of the injured persons were brought to the Centre-run facility at around 8 PM last night, seven others were admitted in the burns ICU of the hospital early this morning

Nine men, who have suffered serious burn injuries in the NTPC plant explosion in Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli, have been shifted to the Safdarjung Hospital here. While two of the injured persons were brought to the Centre-run facility at around 8 PM last night, seven others were admitted in the burns ICU of the hospital early this morning. "Five of the patients are very critical. While three of them have suffered around 80 per cent burns, two have got 60 -70 per cent burn injuries," Dr Rajendra Sharma, the medical superintendent of the Safdarjung Hospital, told PTI. The other four patients have suffered burns ranging between 25-45 per cent, Sharma said. "We have the arrangements in place, in case more patients are to be brought, we can accommodate them," Sharma said. Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel visited the hospital last night to oversee and ensure that the blast burn patients get the best treatment and care. The death toll in the massive explosion at the state-run power giant NTPC's Unchahar plant climbed to over 30. More 85 injured people are being treated at hospitals in Rae Bareli and Lucknow. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is abroad, had announced Rs 2 lakh compensation for the family of those killed and Rs 50,000 for the grievously injured, besides Rs 25,000 for other injured workers. Union power minister R K Singh has also announced a compensation amount of Rs 20 lakh to the next of kin of those killed, observing that the earlier ex-gratia was not enough. The NTPC has initiated a probe to ascertain the reasons behind the blast. In a statement issued yesterday, the NTPC had said that at unit number 6 of its Unchahar plant, there was a sudden abnormal sound at 20-metre elevation on Wednesday afternoon. The 1,550-MW plant supplies electricity to nine states, according to officials, and employs around 870 people.

NTPC boiler explosion: 9 men with burn injuries shifted to Safdarjung hospital

The death toll from the explosion at the NTPC power plant in Unchahar has risen to 32.

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Death toll in Unchahar <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NTPCExplosion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NTPCExplosion</a> rises to 32.
&mdash; ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/926340820952793088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
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A boiler had burst at the plant on Wednesday.&nbsp;

News reports said there were as many as 100 workers around the boiler when it burst.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ntpc-boiler-explosion-it-started-shaking-then-there-was-a-blast-recalls-worker-23351" target="_blank">Also</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ntpc-boiler-explosion-it-started-shaking-then-there-was-a-blast-recalls-worker-23351" target="_blank"> read -- NTPC boiler explosion: &#39;It started shaking, then there was a blast,&#39; recalls worker</a>

News reports added that the explosion took place as workers stood under the massive boiler trying to de-choke it manually, and that safety guidelines were probably violated.&nbsp;

The state and central governments have since announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of the dead and Rs 50,000 for the injured.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi, who visited Rae Bareily -- where the accident took place and his mother&#39;s parliamentary constituency -- has demanded a judicial probe into the incident government jobs for the injured.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-to-visit-raebareli-after-ntpc-plant-explosion-23337" target="_blank">Also read:&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi to visit Rae Bareli after NTPC plant explosion</a>

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A boiler had burst at the plant on Wednesday

The death toll from the explosion at the NTPC power plant in Unchahar has risen to 32. Death toll in Unchahar #NTPCExplosion rises to 32. — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 3, 2017 × A boiler had burst at the plant on Wednesday. News reports said there were as many as 100 workers around the boiler when it burst. Also read -- NTPC boiler explosion: 'It started shaking, then there was a blast,' recalls worker News reports added that the explosion took place as workers stood under the massive boiler trying to de-choke it manually, and that safety guidelines were probably violated. The state and central governments have since announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of the dead and Rs 50,000 for the injured. Rahul Gandhi, who visited Rae Bareily -- where the accident took place and his mother's parliamentary constituency -- has demanded a judicial probe into the incident government jobs for the injured. Also read: Rahul Gandhi to visit Rae Bareli after NTPC plant explosion

NTPC blast: Death tolls rises to 32

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/absence-of-consensus-on-designating-masood-azhar-a-global-terrorist-china-23386" target="_blank">&#39;Absence of consensus&#39; on designating Masood Azhar a global terrorist: China</a>

China&#39;s foreign ministry said today there was &quot;absence of consensus&quot; to declare Pak-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, a move which is being pushed by India at the UN. 
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cant-say-there-is-no-hindu-terrorism-kamal-haasan-23348">Kamal Haasan is &#39;mentally unstable&#39;: BJP leader</a>

BJP leader Vinay Katiyar said Kamal Haasan is mentally unstable after the actor said Hindu right-wing groups indulge in muscle power. 
&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-reaches-ntpc-plant-raebareli-demands-strict-punishment-for-people-responsible-23370" target="_blank">Rahul Gandhi visits NTPC plant, demands investigation in boiler explosion</a>

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi visited the NTPC plant in Rae Bareli today after a boiler had exploded in the plant yesterday killing 26 people and leaving several injured.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ntpc-explosion-rs-20-lakh-additional-compensation-for-family-of-those-killed-23381" target="_blank">NTPC explosion: Rs 20 Lakh additional compensation for family of those killed</a>

Power Minister R K Singh has announced additional compensation of Rs 20 Lakh ex-gratia for the families of those who were killed in NTPC&rsquo;s power plant explosion on Wednesday in Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Rae Bareli district.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-meets-kerala-chief-minister-pinarayi-vijayan-invites-him-for-isl-match-23378">Sachin Tendulkar meets Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, invites him for ISL match</a>

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar today met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to invite him for the Indian Super League (ISL) football tournament. Tendulkar co-owns Kerala Blasters, a franchise in ISL.

'Absence of consensus' on designating Masood Azhar a global terrorist: China China's foreign ministry said today there was "absence of consensus" to declare Pak-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, a move which is being pushed by India at the UN. Kamal Haasan is 'mentally unstable': BJP leader BJP leader Vinay Katiyar said Kamal Haasan is mentally unstable after the actor said Hindu right-wing groups indulge in muscle power. Rahul Gandhi visits NTPC plant, demands investigation in boiler explosion Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi visited the NTPC plant in Rae Bareli today after a boiler had exploded in the plant yesterday killing 26 people and leaving several injured. NTPC explosion: Rs 20 Lakh additional compensation for family of those killed Power Minister R K Singh has announced additional compensation of Rs 20 Lakh ex-gratia for the families of those who were killed in NTPC’s power plant explosion on Wednesday in Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli district. Sachin Tendulkar meets Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, invites him for ISL match Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar today met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to invite him for the Indian Super League (ISL) football tournament. Tendulkar co-owns Kerala Blasters, a franchise in ISL.

WION Evening news brief, Nov 2, 2017

Indian shares fell on Tuesday and were set to snap four consecutive sessions of gains<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-missile-over-japan-19605"> as the firing of a missile over Japan by North Korea rattled investors</a>, while the expiry of local derivatives contracts this week also hit sentiment.

In a sharp escalation of tensions on the Korean peninsula, North Korea fired a missile early on Tuesday that flew over Japan and landed in Pacific waters about 1,180 kilometres (735 miles) off the northern region of Hokkaido.

Asian share markets tumbled, with MSCI&#39;s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan down 0.6 per cent.

The missile firing added to the unease in Indian markets that were already cautious ahead of the monthly derivatives contracts expiry on Thursday.

&quot;Early negativity from Asian markets over North Korea followed through to the domestic market,&quot; said Anand James, chief market strategist with Geojit Financial Services.

&quot;Investors are also booking profits after Nifty tested 9,900 levels on Monday while there is some volatility ahead of the expiry,&quot; he added.

The broader NSE Nifty was down 0.7 per cent at 9,841.50 as of 0637 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex also eased 0.7 per cent at 31,521.05.

Power producer NTPC&nbsp;was the biggest loser on both the indexes. The stock declined over 4 per cent after the Indian government said it would sell a 5 per cent stake in the company with an option to sell 5 per cent more through a two-day stock market auction in a potential $2.2 billion deal.

Meanwhile, shares in Infosys fell 1 per cent on profit-booking after having risen nearly 8 per cent in the last four sessions.

The stock had gained more than 3 per cent in the previous session, with co-founder Nandan Nilekani returning as chairman after the shock resignation of chief executive Vishal Sikka last week.

Shares in ACC , Bank of Baroda and Tata Power&nbsp;dropped after their exclusion from the NSE index.

Meanwhile, Reliance Infrastructure &nbsp;surged 7.7 per cent on reports that renewable energy firm Greenko is in talks to buy the company&#39;s electricity business in Mumbai.

The firing of a missile over Japan by North Korea rattled investors, while the expiry of local derivatives contracts this week also hit sentiment

Indian shares fell on Tuesday and were set to snap four consecutive sessions of gains as the firing of a missile over Japan by North Korea rattled investors, while the expiry of local derivatives contracts this week also hit sentiment. In a sharp escalation of tensions on the Korean peninsula, North Korea fired a missile early on Tuesday that flew over Japan and landed in Pacific waters about 1,180 kilometres (735 miles) off the northern region of Hokkaido. Asian share markets tumbled, with MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan down 0.6 per cent. The missile firing added to the unease in Indian markets that were already cautious ahead of the monthly derivatives contracts expiry on Thursday. "Early negativity from Asian markets over North Korea followed through to the domestic market," said Anand James, chief market strategist with Geojit Financial Services. "Investors are also booking profits after Nifty tested 9,900 levels on Monday while there is some volatility ahead of the expiry," he added. The broader NSE Nifty was down 0.7 per cent at 9,841.50 as of 0637 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex also eased 0.7 per cent at 31,521.05. Power producer NTPC was the biggest loser on both the indexes. The stock declined over 4 per cent after the Indian government said it would sell a 5 per cent stake in the company with an option to sell 5 per cent more through a two-day stock market auction in a potential $2.2 billion deal. Meanwhile, shares in Infosys fell 1 per cent on profit-booking after having risen nearly 8 per cent in the last four sessions. The stock had gained more than 3 per cent in the previous session, with co-founder Nandan Nilekani returning as chairman after the shock resignation of chief executive Vishal Sikka last week. Shares in ACC , Bank of Baroda and Tata Power dropped after their exclusion from the NSE index. Meanwhile, Reliance Infrastructure surged 7.7 per cent on reports that renewable energy firm Greenko is in talks to buy the company's electricity business in Mumbai.

Sensex falls as North Korea fires missile

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