In recent times, geotextile-encased stone/sand column (GESC) is fast becoming popular in various civil engineering projects due to its several ground improvements benefits. This paper reviews developments and information relevant to GESC research and field practices. For the past decades, studies related to experimental, analytical, numerical and field studies of GESC have been reviewed. The installation methods have been discussed in detail. Field studies and the performance of the in-service GESC supporting structures have been reviewed. Finally, some recommendations have been presented on the future scope of research gaps in GESC as soft soil reinforcement methods. It is concluded that GESC can improve all kinds of weak soil types, such as soft clay, loose sands and liquefiable soils for civil and geotechnical engineering applications. GESC techniques also enhanced problematic soil engineering properties and reduce the potential damages caused by them, including instantaneous settlements, embankments and slope failures. In general, the studies from the past decades show that GESC is a promising and sustainable ground improvement technique.