The present study conducted global evolution of soil conservation research from 1995 to 2025 using 575 publications from the Web of Science (WoS) database. The study employs VOSviewer and Bibliometrix to quantify publication trends, collaboration networks, thematic shifts, and key contributors. Results reveal a significant acceleration in annual publications after 2018 (averaging 62/year), driven by growing recognition of soil degradation’s threats to food security and climate resilience. India (26.96%), China (21.22%), and the USA (13.22%) dominate output, with Ethiopia exhibiting the highest citation impact per publication (ACP: 35.06). Keyword analysis identifies “Soil Erosion” (occurrence: 293), “LULC Change,” and “GIS” as core themes, evolving from foundational erosion modeling (1995-2004) to integrated approaches incorporating climate change (2015–2025). Co-authorship networks highlight seven international clusters, anchored by prolific authors like Pradhan B (H-index: 8) and Arabameri A (ACP: 104.43). Publishers Springer Nature (27.65%) and Elsevier (26.43%) lead dissemination, while the National Natural Science Foundation of China (10.43% of funded studies) is the top sponsor. The field’s trajectory reflects a shift toward geospatial technologies (e.g., RUSLE, remote sensing) and interdisciplinary frameworks linking land management with climate adaptation. This analysis underscores the critical role of global collaboration and emerging technologies in advancing soil conservation science, offering policymakers and researchers insights to prioritize future efforts in vulnerable regions.