The Yerukalas of Stuvartpuram are considered as part of the ex-criminal tribes of Andhra Pradesh.   These yerukalas are commonly stigmatized as dacoits, burglers, pilferers, thieves and railway-wagon breakers. Majority of respondents were changed for the better since they started their new jobs.  Criminal activity has been discarded due to motivation by family members, police officials, caste leaders and self employment schemes provided by the     government   and        Non governmental organizations.  Education brought a lot of transformation to the children of the ex-criminals. The welfare measures extended by state government and the non governmental organization have improved the quality of their lives.

KEYWORDS: Stuvartpuram, Gora, Lavanam, Hemalatha Lavanam