New Delhi, April 17 -- India's benchmark stock index, the Nifty 50, extended its bullish streak for a third consecutive day on Wednesday, closing 0.47% higher.

Gains in banking stocks, fueled by improved interest margin expectations and a recovery at IndusInd Bank, supported the market. Strong domestic fundamentals, including low inflation and an optimistic monsoon forecast, further boosted investor sentiment.

However, declines in auto and pharma stocks, along with selective profit-booking, tempered some of the intraday gains.

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