Indian markets closed higher Monday, with Nifty up 98 points at 24,967.8 and Sensex gaining 329 points at 81,635.9, logging their 7th rise in 8 sessions. IT stocks led gains after Powell's dovish hint, while PSU banks, FMCG, and media lagged. Paper stocks soared 8-13% as government set a Minimum Import Price, boosting margins outlook. Retail sentiment on Nifty stayed bullish.