India’s BSE Sensex closed about 0.5% firmer at 78,954.8 on Thursday, the highest since April 21, marking the second session of gains. Hopes of a resolution to the Middle East conflict, a better-than-expected earnings season and the RBI's steady policy stance and optimistic growth outlook bolstered sentiment. This prompted selective buying in heavyweight and banking stocks, while profit-taking emerged in the auto, metals, IT, and cement sectors. Among individual stocks, Reliance Industries surged 3.4% to lead gains, boosted by multiple block deals at a premium over last close. State Bank of India rose 3% ahead of its Q1 results to be announced on Friday. Bharat Electronics (2.6%), ICICI Bank (2.3%), Eternal (2%) and Titan (1.5%) were also among the top performers.