Mumbai, Jan. 28 -- The equity benchmarks posted significant gains in a volatile trading session, extending their rally for a second consecutive day, supported by the optimism surrounding the conclusion of the India-EU free trade agreement (FTA). Investors tracked movements in the rupee and crude oil prices, ongoing Q3 earnings announcements, and geopolitical developments, while also tracking upcoming Q3 result of Larsen & Toubro. The Nifty ended above the 25,300 level.

Oil & gas, metal and media shares advanced while FMCG and pharma shares declined.

As per provisional closing data, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex jumped 487.20 points or 0.60% to 82,344.68. The Nifty 50 index added 167.35 points or 0.66% to 25,342.75. In two cons...