Stock market recap, April 24 -- The Indian equity benchmark indices witnessed a volatile session today, with Nifty 50 ending lower at 24,173.05, shedding 205 points (-0.84%), while Sensex dropped approximately 0.70% to close near 78,000.

The market sentiment was largely dampened by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Brent crude prices surging above $100 per barrel, heightening inflation fears for the import-dependent economy. Sectorally, Nifty Pharma (+2.36%) and Healthcare (+2.11%) were the standout outperformers, providing a defensive cushion amid the broader sell-off.

Conversely, Nifty Auto (-2.35%) and PSU Bank (-2.19%) faced significant selling pressure, reflecting caution over rising input costs and credit gro...