Super absorbent polymer application under suboptimal environments: implications and challenges for marginal lands and abiotic stresses

World population is increasing at an alarming rate, and crop cultivation on marginal lands has emerged as alternate option to feed the burgeoning population. However, are characterized by poor soil health other undesirable characteristics resulting in low production less economic returns. Interest application of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) for been increasing. The SAPs increases germination percentage, seedling growth, grain yield different crops. Being hydrophilic nature, can absorb retain a huge quantity water, thereby enhance water use efficiency In addition, also showed positive influence physico-chemical properties enhanced retention nutrients. Marginal frequently subjected abiotic stresses such drought, heavy metals, salinity. serves buffer against these reduces risk plant damage hence failure. Over past decade, focused efforts have undertaken arable lands, especially arid regions. understanding about not well understood. present review critically discusses potential productivity with major focus performance under stresses. Current challenges hindering wide discussed.