<h1>Markets climb as reports of planned comprehensive GST reforms ahead of Diwali boost sentiment and extend stock rally</h1> Equity benchmarks rose in early trade on reports of planned comprehensive GST reforms ahead of Diwali, boosting market sentiment and extending a prior sharp rally; major benchmark indices posted notable gains while some large-cap stocks lagged. Market participants cited expected policy initiatives and improved geopolitical prospects, which could affect secondary tariffs tied to oil imports, as supportive factors. Global sentiment was mixed with select Asian markets up and others down, Brent crude eased about 0.5%, and foreign institutional investors were net buyers of domestic equities the prior session.