Bengaluru, June 18 -- Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday described the Mekedatu project as the "heart of South India," asserting that it benefits Tamil Nadu more than Karnataka and said the state is ready for talks with Tamil Nadu "anytime."

Speaking to reporters at Vidhana Soudha after casting his vote in the Legislative Council elections, Shivakumar responded to questions on Tamil Nadu's opposition to the project.

"Mekedatu is not just close to my heart; it is the 'heart of South India'. This project is in the interest of both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. In fact, Mekedatu will benefit Tamil Nadu more than Karnataka," Shivakumar said.

He added that Karnataka is ready to release Tamil Nadu's share of 177 TMC of water as p...