India, Sept. 29 -- Indian equity benchmarks closed flat on Monday after a range-bound session, with gains in energy counters offset by weakness in consumer stocks. The Nifty50 ended at 24,632, while the Sensex closed near 80,589.

Oil and gas stocks were the standout performers. Oil India Ltd. advanced after reports of fresh exploration successes and stronger operational commentary, helping the sector buck the broader trend. Select PSU energy names also gained, lending support to the indices.

On the flip side, Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL) weighed on the FMCG pack. The stock fell amid demand-side concerns flagged by analysts, with other staples following suit. The weakness in consumer names capped any meaningful upside for the market.

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