The Indian stock market benchmarks ended lower on Thursday, with the Nifty 50 closing at 24,326.65, down 4 points due to profit booking in select heavyweights. Ajit Mishra from Religare Broking noted that the Nifty faces resistance from key moving averages in the 24,550–24,750 range, leading to a cautious outlook. However, he identified three stocks as promising short-term picks over the next 1-2 weeks:

1. Bharat Forge: Target price of ₹2,140 with a stop loss at ₹1,920. The stock shows a well-structured uptrend and has recently broken out from a cup and handle pattern, indicating potential for further gains.

2. Delhivery: Target price of ₹524 and a stop loss at ₹460. Following a breakout from a cup and handle formation, the stock has consolidated, suggesting accumulation and the possibility of continued upward momentum.

3. Fortis Healthcare: Target price of ₹1,020 with a stop loss at ₹910. The stock is in a strong long-term uptrend and has broken out of a falling channel, indicating a continuation of its bullish trend. Mishra emphasizes a selective stock-specific approach, especially avoiding weaker sectors like IT.