The Athletic Federation of India announced on May 17, 2020, that training facilities previously closed due to the pandemic are reopening. To keep athletes safe and prevent the virus from spreading within the camps, the sports board has implemented mandatory Standard Operating Procedures. Under these new rules, athletes can once again access outdoor areas and weight rooms to prepare for future sporting events.
Safety protocols require athletes to maintain a two-meter gap during their routines and refrain from any physical greetings like handshakes or hugs. As part of a government mandate, athletes must also utilize the 'Aarogya Setu' mobile app to track nearby positive cases. Training schedules are now strictly monitored to reduce unnecessary exposure; this means leaving the dormitory only five minutes before a session begins and returning promptly once it ends. Other mandates from the AFI include the use of disposable gloves during certain fitness activities. Furthermore, if any athlete develops symptoms of COVID-19, they are required to isolate immediately until a formal diagnosis is reached.
To further enforce social distancing, the use of saunas and ice baths has been banned. Leaving the training camp is strictly prohibited, though exceptions for emergencies may be granted solely by the AFI President or the Chairman of Planning. Meanwhile, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs stated on May 17, 2020, that while stadiums and sports complexes are reopening, all matches and tournaments must be held without spectators. This comes at a critical time, as the high-stakes Olympic qualification trials are set to begin in late June 2020.