New Delhi, Aug 5 (IANS): Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday said that the Sports Authority of India's (SAI) National Centres of Excellence (NCOE) across the country will be opened in a "phased manner" starting on October 1.

In a review meeting held by the ministry and SAI, Rijiju also said that the re-opening of the NCOEs will be done only in accordance to the COVID-19 situation in the respective state.

Athletes who will be initially allowed for training apart from the elite athletes who are in the mix for the Tokyo Olympics would be juniors who have been shortlisted in the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) Junior scheme.

Additionally, it has also been decided that the funds extended to all SAI NCOEs will be enhanced.

"Funds will be provided to upgrade existing infrastructure and equipment or procure new ones, as per the need of athletes. We are ready to provide all support needed to ensure that athletes in India have the best facilities at par with the world," said Rijiju.

It has also been decided to increase awareness workshops held at the NCOEs including workshops on sexual harassment act with aim to make athletes aware of sexual harassment issues and about the Protection of Children Against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and motivate them to speak up against any form of harassment.