Kerala, known as "God's own country," relies heavily on migrant workers, especially in its tea plantations. Most workers come from states like Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. In Wayanad, tea pickers like 23-year-old Rajkumar Jani from Odisha earn money based on how many tea leaves they pluck. "We don’t work for a salary. Our earnings depend on the quantity of tea leaves we collect. So no work, no payment," says Jani, carefully harvesting fresh green leaves. Jani traveled around 1,600 km from Koraput, Odisha, seeking work to support his family. His friend, 26-year-old Shyam Kalpadia, was the first from their town to come to Kerala six years ago for better income. Kalpadia earns 1,500 to 2,000 rupees daily, more than he could in Odisha, where poverty is high. He also appreciates Kerala’s natural beauty and friendly people. "This place is so beautiful. Wherever you go, it’s so green. People are also nice here," he says. Employers provide accommodation and some provisions, helping workers save money. For Jani, who studied botany, the work is interesting and related to his field. Despite heavy rains and tough hilly conditions, they avoid taking days off. "Work not only pays, but it also keeps us entertained," Jani adds with a smile, stacking sacks of fresh tea leaves.