FMCG major Hindustan Unilever (HUL) announced Monday a rise in third quarter profit of 21.91% to Rs 10.62 billion for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2013 as compared to net profit Rs 8.71 billion in the same period last year.

Total income has increased by 8.54% to Rs 72.23 billion for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2013 from Rs 66.55 billion in the year ago period.

During the quarter, the domestic consumer business grew at 10%, ahead of market, with 4% underlying volume growth. 

Harish Manwani, Chairman commented, ''Our growth has been competitive and profitable and the results are a reflection of how we dynamically managed the business despite the headwinds in the environment. Looking forward, we are conscious of the uncertain macro context but remain positive on the mid to long term opportunities in our sector. We are determined to stay the course on our strategy and will continue to invest in the business for the long term.''

Shares of the company gained Rs 14.1, or 2.49%, to trade at Rs 580. The total volume of shares traded was 514,632 at the BSE (3.37 p.m., Monday).