Mumbai, June 17 -- Indian equity benchmark indices extended gains for the fourth consecutive session on Wednesday, supported by easing crude oil prices and positive global cues.

The BSE Sensex closed at 77,155.00 points, up 347.14 points. The NIFTY 50 index settled at 24,085.70 points, gaining 96.55 points or 0.4 per cent.

Market sentiment remained upbeat after international crude oil prices slipped below the USD 80-per-barrel level amid expectations of improved global energy supplies following progress in the US-Iran peace agreement. Lower oil prices are seen as positive for India, a major crude importer, as they help ease inflationary pressures and support corporate earnings.

Buying interest was visible across most sectoral indices, ...