Mumbai, Aug 31 (IANS): Indian equity markets were pushed higher on Wednesday ahead of the release of key macro-economic data, supported by fresh buying.

The barometer 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the BSE touched a new 52-week high of 28,532.25 points during the intra-day trade. 

Both the key Indian equity indices provisionally closed the day's trade in the green, with healthy buying witnessed in banking and capital goods stocks.

The wider 51-scrip Nifty of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) edged up 40.40 points, or 0.46 per cent to 8,784.75 points. 

The Sensex, which opened at 28,372.25 points, provisionally closed at 28,452.17 points (at 3.30 p.m.) -- up 109.16 points, or 0.39 per cent from the previous close at 28,343.01 points.

However, the BSE market breadth was marginally tilted in favour of the bears -- with 1,355 declines and 1,319 advances.

On Tuesday, the key indices had closed with substantial gains on the back of positive global cues, strong buying support and an appreciating rupee.

The barometer index had gained 440.35 points, or 1.58 per cent, while the NSE Nifty edged up by 139.90 points, or 1.59 per cent.