Sensex rallies past 6,500-mrk in early trades

Taking a cue from the overnight US market gains, the Sensex added 14 points over its last close to open at 6,461. Strong rally across-the-board propelled the index above the 6,500-mark to an early high of 6,538 - up 91 points from the last close.

While the Sensex has surged 81 points at 6,528, the Nifty has inched past the 2,000-mark to 2,001 - up 18 points.

Infosys has jumped 2.53% (Rs 52) to Rs 2,095, and Satyam has added 1.75% (Rs 8) to Rs 441. Wipro has flared up 2% (Rs 13) to Rs 664.

ITC and Reliance have gained a per cent each to Rs 1,500 (up Rs 15) and Rs 533 (up Rs 3), respectively.

ICICI Bank (up Rs 14 or 3.50% to Rs 405), HDFC Bank (up Rs 8 or 1.50% to Rs 543) and SBI (up Rs 6 to Rs 648) have resumed with strong gains.

Bharti is up 1.28% (Rs 3) at Rs 217.

Auto, cement and pharma counters, too, have commenced at higher levels.