Boya (caste)

The Boya are a community traditionally found in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu in India. They are classified as a Scheduled Tribe (ST) in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Historically, the Boya were associated with hunting, gathering, and agricultural labor. Some were also employed as watchmen and village guards.

The Boya community has a rich cultural heritage, with distinct traditions, customs, and social structures. Their traditional occupations and social status have undergone changes over time, influenced by socio-economic developments and government policies. Various sub-groups exist within the larger Boya community, sometimes identified by specific occupations or geographical locations.

Efforts have been made by the government and social organizations to improve the socio-economic conditions of the Boya community through educational programs, employment opportunities, and welfare schemes. These initiatives aim to address historical disadvantages and promote social inclusion. The term "Boya" can also refer to broader, sometimes overlapping, classifications of communities involved in similar traditional occupations, leading to variations in its usage and interpretation across different regions.