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Rupee gains to new month high of 61.70

The rupee gained to its strongest against the dollar in a month on Thursday as exit polls predicted a strong showing for the key opposition party in state elections held since November.

Results for state elections are due on Sunday. Confirmation of a strong showing by the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party would bolster the chances of victory in general elections due by May, according to analysts. BJP is perceived by many investors as being more business friendly.

Still, opinion and exit polls have a patchy track record in India. Most surveys forecast the wrong outcome in the 2004 general election.

The rupee gained to 61.70 against the dollar at its day's high.