Sensex up 244pts at 9987

The Sensex touched a high of 9991, and is now up 244 points at 9987.

ICICI Bank has soared 6.8% to Rs 609. Ranbaxy has surged 4.6% to Rs 408.

HDFC has advanced 3.5% to Rs 1,350. Hindalco has surged 3.3% to Rs 169. Cipla has gained 3.2% at Rs 499.

Reliance has added 3% to Rs 718.

Bajaj Auto at Rs 2,202, ONGC at Rs 1,195, Larsen & Toubro at Rs 2,261 and HLL at Rs 196 are up nearly 3% each.

Out of 2,526 stocks traded so far, 1,553 have advanced, 914 have declined and 59 are unchanged.