Mumbai, March 6 (IANS): A benchmark index of the Indian equities markets soared to a new high of 21,525 points Thursday, led by a strong buying support from foreign funds ahead of the general elections.

The 30-scrip S&P Sensex (sensitive index) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) hit a new record high of 21,525.14 points, surpassing its previous high of 21,483.74 points touched Dec 9, 2013.

The Sensex also touched a record closing high of 21,513.87 points.

The 30-scrip benchmark index, which opened in the positive at 21,336.32 points, ended the day at 21,513.87 points, up 1.11 percent, or 237.01 points, from its previous day close at 21,276.86 points.

The index touched a high of 21,525.14 points and low of 21,329.88 points in the intra-day.

The wider 50-scrip S&P CNX Nifty of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) closed 1.15 percent or 72.50 points higher at 6,401.15 points.

Strong buying support from foreign funds sparked a rally in blue chip stocks like ICICI Bank, RIL and ONGC.

ICICI Bank soared 3.33 percent at Rs.1133.65; RIL jumped 1.87 percent at Rs.822 and ONGC rose 2.91 percent at Rs.309.