The BSE benchmark Sensex fell by over 71 points in early trade today The 30-share barometer, which had gained 50.83 points in yesterday's volatile session, fell by 71 points, or 0.41 per cent, to 17,471 Similarly, the wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty shed 29.15 points, or 0.55 per cent, to 5,285.90.