Mumbai, June 15 -- The key equity benchmark indices extended gains for a second consecutive session on Monday, supported by a sharp decline in crude oil prices and optimism surrounding a US-Iran peace agreement. Buying was broad-based, with most sectoral indices ending in the green. Investor sentiment was further buoyed by strong global cues, a stronger rupee and easing market volatility. The Nifty settled above the 23,850 mark, led by gains in consumer durables and auto stocks. However, pharma and healthcare shares bucked the trend and closed lower.

The S&P BSE Sensex soared 736.38 points or 0.97% to 76,264.33. The Nifty 50 index surged 231 points or 0.98% to 23,853.90.

Mahindra & Mahindra (up 3.06%), Larsen & Toubro (up 3.01%) and Rel...